bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Incidence and predictors of opportunistic infections among HIV-infected children on antiretroviral therapy at public health facilities, Southwest Ethiopia, 2023: A multicenter retrospective follow-up study
Authors: Admasu Nigatu , Jihad Mohammed , Kebede Abeje , Getnet Masrie 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Opportunistic infections (OIs) pose a significant threat to children infected with HIV. Despite advancements in ART, these infections continue to be a public health concern. However, there is limited evidence regarding the incidence and predictors of OIs among HIV-infected children in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area.
Objective
To assess the incidence and predictors of OIs among HIV-infected children on ART at public health facilities of Southwest Ethiopia People Regional State.
Methods
The study employed an institution-based retrospective cohort design, conducted from July 1, 2018 to July 31, 2023, among HIV-infected children aged less than 15 years. Data were extracted using national ART intake and follow-up forms. KoboCollect version 2023.2.4 and STATA version 14.0 were used for data collection and analysis, respectively. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to estimate probability of OI-free survival time. Variables with P < 0.25 in the bivariable Cox proportional hazard model were selected as candidates. In multivariable analysis, P < 0.05 and adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to declare statistically significant predictors.
Results
Of the total 409 HIV infected children, 122(29.8%) developed at least one OI, contributing to 954.95 person-years of risk. The overall incidence rate was 12.8 (95% CI: 10.7, 15.2) per 100 person-years. The OI free survival probability at the end of follow-up period was 0.277(95% CI: 0.139, 0.434). The commonest OI was pulmonary tuberculosis, 30.33% (95% CI: 22.7, 39.2). Non-disclosing HIV status (AHR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.42, 4.63), children aged 10–14 years (AHR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.10, 4.95), no history of prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (AHR: 2.33, 95% CI: 1.48, 3.66), hemoglobin level < 10 mg/dL (AHR: 2.26, 95% CI: 1.37, 3.75), fair or poor adherence to ART (AHR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.79), and having past history of OIs (AHR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.55) were significant predictors of OIs.
Conclusion and Recommendations:
The incidence of OIs was high. Hence, health facilities need to regularly monitor hemoglobin, enhance ART adherence, provide OI prophylaxis for at-risk children, reinforce PMTCT programs for OI detection and management, and encourage timely and age-appropriate HIV status disclosure. Caregivers are also required to oversee and assist their children in adhering to ART.
HPV Genotypes in Africa: Comprehensive Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Evolutionary Dynamics
Authors: Malika ALLALI , Rachid EL FERMI , Khaoula ERRAFII , Abdelaziz WAJIH RHALEM , Fichtali Karima , Hicham EL FAZAZI , Adil El GHANMI , Bouchra GHAZI , Sanaa El Majjaoui , Nabil ISMAILI , Nouha Messaoudi , Wakrim Lahcen , Youssef BAKRI , GHAZAL Hassan , HAMDI Salsabil 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread and diverse group of viruses that are responsible for various clinical conditions, including cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. In Africa, the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes vary significantly across different regions.
This study utilized a cohort comprising 9203 HPV sequences isolated from cervical samples across twenty-one African countries sourced from the National GenBank. Among these sequences were 1,347 HPV31 sequences from Rwanda; 879 HPV66, 782 HPV18 from Mauritius, 500 HPV31 from Guinea, 459 HPV45 from Senegal, 446 HPV18 from Tunisia, 445 HPV45 sequences from Cameroon, 445 HPV18 from Ghana, 445 HPV66 from Kenya, 442 from Algeria; 438 HPV35 from Zimbabwe, 364 HPV31, HPV16, HPV53, HPV83, HPV66, HPV62, and HPV89 sequences from Morocco, 351 from Chad, 340 HPV53/HPV6 sequences from Nigeria, 299 HPV16 from Gabon, 290 HPV45 sequences from Tanzania, 260 HPV18/HPV16 from Mali, 200 HPV58 sequences from Ethiopia, 35 from Congo, 20 HPV5 sequences from Egypt, and 10 HPV36 from Uganda. To refine the dataset and minimize redundancy, a stringent 99% sequence identity threshold was applied using CD-HIT, which identified184 unique sequences.
Employing the RAxML tool, a phylogenetic tree was meticulously crafted to scrutinize the evolutionary relationships inherent within the HPV sequences. Furthermore, a Python 3-generated heatmap rooted in multiple sequence alignment (MSA) was generated to elucidate discernible patterns and relationships among the HPV sequences.
The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that African HPV sequences share genetic ancestry with European sequences, whereas American isolates serve as distinct outgroups. This interconnectedness underscores the intricate interplay of historical, regional, and cultural determinants that have collectively contributed to shaping the genomic landscape of African samples. The geographically variable HPV genotypes 35, 31, 16, 18, 58, 45, 7, and 66 are the most common in Africa. Algeria, Morocco, Rwanda, and Guinea are dispersed, but the rates of infection are highest in the Republic of Congo and Chad.
The interactive role of odor associations in friendship preferences
Authors: Gaby J. M. , Gunaydin G. , Zayas V. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Who we choose to befriend is highly personal, driven by idiosyncratic preferences about other individuals, including sensory cues. How does a person’s unique sensory evaluation of others’ body odor affect friendship formation? Female participants took part in a speed-friending event where they made judgments of friendship potential (FP) following a 4-minute live interaction. Prior to and following the speed-friending event, participants judged the FP of these women based solely on diplomatic odor (including daily perfume/hygiene products) presented on worn t-shirts. Participants also judged FP based on facial appearance (a 100-ms presentation of portrait photographs). Judgments based solely on diplomatic odor predicted FP judgments following in-person interactions, beyond the predictive ability of photograph-based judgments. Moreover, judgments based on the live interaction predicted changes in the second round of diplomatic odor judgments, suggesting that the quality of the live interaction modified olfactory perception. Results were driven more strongly by idiosyncratic preferences than by global perceiver or target effects. Findings highlight the dynamic role of ecologically relevant social olfactory cues in informing friendship judgments, as well as the involvement of odor-based associative learning during the early stages of friendship formation.
Soil Toxicity Assessment in Home Gardens within Agro- Ecosystems of an Industrial Zone (Eloor, Kerala, India): Comparative Analysis of Spiked and Field-Contaminated Soils using the Bioindicator Eisenia andrei
Authors: Gopakumar Lakshmi , Joseph Ammini , Singh Issac Sarojini Bright , Puthumana Jayesh 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The toxicity studies using soil invertebrates are good tools for assessing the soil quality of a region. In this study the toxicity assessment of industrial soils using Eisenia andrei was done using field soils and artificial soils spiked with zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd). Considering field soils, the soils near the industrial region showed higher toxicity than those away from the region and in spiked soils, the toxicity followed the order Zn < Cd < Zn + Cd. The Mixed Toxicity Index (MTI) revealed an antagonistic response between Zn and Cd (MTI < 0) which points out the influence of one element in reducing the toxicity of the other. The biomass showed the highest reduction in zone 1 soils and Zn + Cd treated soils. A similar trend was noted for the hatchability of cocoons. The bioconcentration studies showed that bioaccumulation has not occurred in field soils and spiked soils. However, despite the bioaccumulation, there were certain responses at short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) treatments. The study points out the single and combined impact of soil toxicants in the home garden soils on the overall health and survival of invertebrates and also the possibility of reducing those effects using various nutrients in the soil ecosystems.
Detection of norovirus nucleic acid based on label-free ratiometric fluorescent polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Liang Tingna , Du Rong , Wang Mofan , Luo Rui , Ni Yunlong , Guo Yahui , Huo Xiang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In order to optimise the detection method of Genogroup II (GII) norovirus in food, this study is to construct a G-quadruplex integrated polymerase chain reaction (PCR) strategy for GII norovirus genomic DNA. Based on this strategy, a ratiometric fluorescent assay for GII norovirus genomic DNA was innovatively developed using two labelling-free, dual-emitting nucleic acid dyes. The PCR procedure and system, and the ratiometric fluorescence detection system were optimised to improve the amplification efficiency and enhance the signal response. The results showed that, under the optimal conditions, the ratiometric fluorescence signal value of the detection system showed a linear relationship with the logarithmic value of the concentration of GII norovirus genomic DNA fragments in the concentration range of 10–250 pmol L− 1 (R2 = 0.983), and the detection limit was 1.19 pmol L− 1. In the range of 10 pmol L− 1~1 nmol L− 1, the method can achieve quantitative detection of GII norovirus genomic DNA, and in the range of 10 pmol L− 1~250 pmol L− 1, the method can achieve quantitative detection, and in the saturated concentration interval of 250 pmol L− 1~1 nmol L− 1 outside the linear range, the method shows good specificity. This method is based on the mature PCR technology system, which achieves the simultaneous output of dual fluorescence signals through clever primer design, and establishes a ratiometric fluorescence PCR detection method, which is expected to achieve the detection of GII norovirus in food.
Integrating Blood Flow Restriction into Boxing Training for Enhanced Punching Force and Upper Body Strength in Elite Boxers- A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Awana Gaurav , Rizvi Moattar Raza , Sharma Ankita , Zaidi Zoya , Makhija Simran , Sami Waqas 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: In boxing, punching force and upper extremity strength are crucial for competitive success. Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) has shown promise in enhancing muscle strength and hypertrophy, but its application to improve boxing-specific performance remains underexplored. This 8-week randomized controlled trial investigates the effects of BFRT on punching force and upper body strength in elite male boxers.Methodology:Twenty male boxers from the Dronacharya Boxing Academy in Haryana participated, divided equally into a control group and an experimental group. The experimental group performed upper extremity resistance exercises with blood flow restriction bands, while the control group engaged in the same exercises without such bands. Both groups trained three times a week, performing 3 sets of 30 repetitions at 20-30% of their 1-repetition maximum.Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in punching force and muscle endurance. Notable increases were observed in jab force (+45.21 lbs), uppercut force (+57.70 lbs), hook force (+58.37 lbs), and cross force (+53.90 lbs), along with elbow extension strength (mean difference = -2.95 kg, p < 0.001). Repeated measures ANOVA indicated significant group × time interaction effects (jab force η² = 0.34, p < 0.001; uppercut force η² = 0.63, p < 0.001; hook force η² = 0.61, p < 0.001; cross force η² = 0.50, p < 0.001), underscoring substantial improvements in the experimental group over time compared to the control group.Conclusion: BFRT significantly improved punching force and upper body strength in elite boxers, confirming its effectiveness as a training enhancement.
A finite element modeling method for predicting the cold radial forging quality of 20CrMnTiH hollow shaft: study of material composition and heat treatment parameters
Authors: Xu Wenxia , Wang Zhaohui , Zhu Xuwen , Zhang Bowen , zheng Zecheng , Lv Mi , Wang Hongxia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Cold radial forging (CRF) is an efficient and high-precision process for manufacturing rotating parts such as axles and steering shafts. However, the extent of cold plastic deformation is limited in hot-rolled low-carbon steel. To maximize material performance and ensure the quality of CRF, in addition to improving the processing parameters, the alloy composition and heat treatment parameters must also be synergistically optimized. This study focused on the CRF process of 20CrMnTiH hollow shafts and established an evaluation system based on the residual stress, effective strain, and damage of the hollow shaft after processing. Furthermore, a finite element simulation model integrating Spheroidizing annealing (SA) and CRF was created using the phase diagram calculation method (CALPHAD). The feasibility of numerical simulations for SA and CRF was validated by Brinell hardness and residual stress experiments. Detailed analysis using variance analysis and Tukey's post-hoc test was conducted to examine the coupled effects of alloy composition, SA temperature (ATe), and SA time (ATi) on the forming quality. The results indicated that the significance of chemical composition and heat treatment parameters for hardness is Te > Mn, residual stress is Te > Mn > Cu > Ni > Si, effective strain is C > S > Ti > Si, and damage is C > Ti > Mn > ATi > Te. The optimal combination of chemical composition and heat treatment parameters was determined as 0.17%C-0.17%Si-0.93%Mn-0.035%P-1.15%(1.45%)Cr-0.1%Ti, ATe: 795℃ and ATi: 4h. This work enhances the pre-screening efficiency of material design and heat treatment process optimization in engineering applications.
Evaluation of grafting compatibility and prediction modelling in Sapindus
Authors: Wang Lixian , Liao Yangmei , Chen Na , Jia Liming , Chen Zhong 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Grafting compatibility refers to the successful healing between stock and scion, as well as the normal functioning of their tissues. This article investigates the survival rates and growth conditions of various Sapindus grafting combinations and establishes a new evaluation system for Sapindus grafting compatibility. This system aims to provide theoretical support for predicting Sapindus grafting compatibility and enhancing the development of improved varieties. The study utilizes 15 Sapindus grafting combinations as research materials, assesses their survival rates and growth conditions, employs the CRITIC method to calculate weights, and develops a Sapindus grafting compatibility evaluation model. By analyzing the physiological characteristics of the scion leaves from these 15 grafting combinations, variance analysis, cluster analysis, and linear regression models were utilized to assess the accuracy of the grafting compatibility evaluation model. The results indicate that the growth of grafted plants serves as a critical evaluation index of grafting compatibility, providing a more scientific approach than relying solely on survival rate metrics. This research offers a theoretical foundation and data support for predicting Sapindus grafting compatibility; an effective prediction model will substantially enhance the efficiency of breeding and promoting improved varieties, thereby fostering the growth of the Sapindus industry.
Elevated High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Dyslipidaemia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Implications for Cardiovascular Risk Prediction in Nigerian Patients
Authors: Mohammed Jamila Aminu , Basil Bruno , Mba Izuchukwu Nnachi , Abubakar Nabilah Datti , Lawal Akeem Oyeyemi , Momoh Jafaru Alunua , Yahaya Isah Adagiri 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Inflammation, marked by elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, and dyslipidaemia, are critical contributors to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk. In Nigeria, where T2DM prevalence is rising, there is a need for more comprehensive risk prediction tools, incorporating both traditional and newer biomarkers such as hs-CRP. This study aimed to investigate the association between elevated hs-CRP levels and dyslipidaemia in Nigerian patients with T2DM and to explore the potential implications for cardiovascular risk prediction.Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 T2DM patients and 150 age-matched controls. Data on socio-demographics, medical history, clinical characteristics, and laboratory parameters, including lipid profiles and hs-CRP levels, were collected. The relationship between hs-CRP levels and lipid parameters was assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient and independent t-tests.Results T2DM patients exhibited significantly higher hs-CRP levels (2.2 ± 1.8 mg/L vs. 1.2 ± 1.0 mg/L, p < 0.001), dyslipidaemia (p < 0.001), and blood pressure (SPB – 127.6 ± 12.4 mmHg, DBP – 77.6 ± 6.6 mmHg vs. SBP – 119.6 ± 10.8 mmHg, DBP – 72.1 ± 8.0 mmHg; p = 0.001) compared to controls. However, no significant correlation was found between hs-CRP levels and lipid parameters.Conclusion Although no direct association was found between elevated hs-CRP levels and dyslipidaemia, hs-CRP remains an important marker of cardiovascular risk possibly through non-lipid pathways, such as inflammation-driven endothelial dysfunction. Incorporating hs-CRP into cardiovascular risk prediction models, alongside traditional lipid assessments, could improve early identification and intervention strategies in the Nigerian T2DM population.
Dual-Role Ion Dynamics in Ferroionic CuInP2S6: Insights into the Transition and Boundary from Ferroelectric to Ionic Switching Mechanisms
Authors: Yang Weiyou 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Due to its "ferroionic" nature, the van der Waals CuInP2S6 combines switchable ferroelectric polarization with highly mobile Cu ions, allowing for multiple resistance states and multifunctionalities. Its conductive mechanism typically involves the ferroelectric switching, ion migration, and corresponding intercoupling, which are highly sensitive to the external electric field. However, it is still a challenge to distinguish the dominated contribution of either ferroelectric switching or ion migration to dynamic conductivity, and the underlying mechanism is not clear yet currently. Here, we demonstrate the Cu ions migration pathways and their interactions with ferroelectric switching, based on PFM analyses and first-principles calculations. It is confirmed that the Cu ion migrations within the intralayer and interlayer enable the formation of a quadruple-well state, thus determining the conductive mechanism. Accordingly, it favors the manipulation of Cu ion transport in the quadruple state in a controlled manner, and makes a transition from ferroelectric-dominated to ion-migration-dominated conductivity, by tailoring the electric fields. This work deepens the understanding of ion migration dynamics and conductive switching in ferroionic systems, which is critical for the advancement of memristor-based neuromorphic computing.
High-performance deep-blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes enabled by a platinum(II) emitter
Authors: Li Guijie , Chu Qingshan , Yao Huanhuan , Wu Kongwu , She Yuan-Bin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) represent a revolutionary technology, that has been successfully commercialized in full-color displays. However, this technology is still severely limited by the low efficiency of blue OLEDs. Developing high-performance blue OLEDs is a major challenge, and emitters are critical for overcoming this issue. Herein, we developed a strategy to design phosphorescent Pt(II) complexes with a locally excited-dominated character and a rigid 3D geometry to suppress intermolecular interactions, enabling robust deep-blue emitters. A bottom-emitting OLED realized a high color purity with a full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 17.1 nm, a high maximum brightness of 48968 cd/m2, and high external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) of 31.3%, 27.0%, and 23.6% at 1000, 5000, and 10000 cd/m2, respectively. A top-emitting OLED achieved an enhanced color purity (FWHM = 13.1 nm, CIEy = 0.06), a low running voltage (3.9 V at 1000 cd/m2), and a maximum EQE of 49.5%, and maintained EQEs of 46.4%, 39.5%, and 34.3% at 1000, 5000, and 10000 cd/m2, respectively. The OLED also exhibited a maximum blue index (BI) of 468 cd A-1CIEy-1 and a long half-lifetime of 670 h at an initial luminance of 1000 cd/m2. This study provides a important strategy to develop high-performance deep-blue phosphorescent OLEDs.
Structural insights into how Cas9 targets nucleosomes
Authors: Nureki Osamu , Nagamura Reina , Kusakizako Tsukasa , Hirano Hisato , Kujirai Tomoya , Kato Junko , Kurumizaka Hitoshi , Endo Masaki , Toki Seiichi , Saika Hiroaki 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The CRISPR-associated endonuclease Cas9 is used as a genome editing, which targets specific genomic loci by single guide RNAs (sgRNAs). In eukaryotes, genome DNA is stored in chromatin, in which the nucleosome is a basic unit. Despite previous structural analyses focusing on Cas9 cleaving free DNA, structural insights into Cas9 targeting of DNA within nucleosomes are limited, leading to uncertainties in understanding how Cas9 operates in the eukaryotic genome. In the present study, we found that Cas9 targets the linker DNA and the entry-exit DNA region of the nucleosome but does not the DNA tightly wrapped around the histone octamer. We determined cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of the Cas9-sgRNA-nucleosome ternary complex that targets linker DNA in nucleosomes. The structure suggested interactions between Cas9 and nucleosomes at multiple sites, and mutants that reduced the interaction between nucleosomal DNA and Cas9 improved nucleosomal DNA cleavage activity both in vitro and in vivo. These findings will contribute to the development of novel genome editing tools in chromatin.
Leveraging Generative AI and CAD Automation for Efficient Automotive Wheel Design with Limited Data
Authors: Li Kun-Ying , Huang Cheng-Kai , Chen Qing-Wei , Zhang Hsuan-Cheng , Tang Tsann-Tay 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study developed a method that leverages generative artificial intelligence and automated computer-aided design (CAD) technologies for the design of automotive wheel rims. First, numerous two-dimensional (2D) wheel rim designs are automatically generated by inputting prompts into Stable Diffusion, an image generation model, without predefining design parameters and constraints. Subsequently, the reasonableness of the generated 2D designs is examined, and reasonable designs are transformed into three-dimensional CAD models. The proposed method completes model training with a small amount of data and simultaneously establishes a mechanism for verifying the reasonableness of data generation, achieving reliable wheel rim design generation. Compared to existing big data methods, this approach is more easily applicable to industrial applications.