bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating cow welfare status from milk samples: effects of housing modifications on milk infrared spectra
Authors: Bahadi M. , Warner D. , Ismail A. A. , Santschi D. E. , Lefebvre D. M. , Duggavathi R. , Vasseur E. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The goal of this study was to isolate spectral fingerprints from milk Fourier transform infrared spectra that may reflect potential improvements in cow welfare, specifically comfort and ease of movement, resulting from modified housing configurations. Housing configuration modification treatments were tested across 3 animal trials, consisting of modified chain length (TCL), stall width (SW) and manger wall and stall length (MW/SL) configurations. The spectral analyses involved the use of principal components and mixed model analysis. Principal components were calculated from averages of mid-infrared spectra collected on the last weeks of treatment application in each of the animal trials. A significant effect of housing configuration was revealed. As an indication of animal comfort improvement, milk of cows assigned to longer chains revealed a trend of changes in multiple milk components (e.g., milk NPN, trans fatty acids, fat, and protein) that are consistent with changes in ruminal pH. These conclusions were inline with those drawn from the analysis of animal-based responses such as behavioral data and other outcomes. This study was able to reveal that housing modifications had a significant effect on milk spectra, with differences observed between the most and least restrictive treatments, translating into improved or reduced animal welfare status.
Mendelian Randomization Reveals the Anatomical Site Differences and Reverse Causality in the Association Between Diverticular Disease and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zheng Biaohui , Chen Dongbo , Zeng Hao , Lin Shuangming 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading global health concern due to its high incidence and mortality rates. Diverticular disease (DD), characterized by the formation of pouches in the colon wall, is prevalent in Western populations, and shares several risk factors with CRC. However, the causal relationship between DD and CRC, including its precancerous lesion, remains to be elucidated.
Methods
This study employed Mendelian randomization (MR) approach using genomic data from European cohort to investigate the potential causal link between DD and the risk of colorectal adenoma, CRC, and its anatomical subtypes (proximal colon cancer, distal colon cancer, and rectal cancer). Single nucleotide polymorphisms significantly associated with these conditions were utilized as instrumental variables in MR analysis to assess causality.
Results
The forward MR analysis indicated no significant causal effect of DD on the risk of colorectal adenoma (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.74–1.03, p = 0.103), CRC (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.87–1.02, p = 0.117), or its anatomical subtypes. In contrast, the reverse MR analysis showed that distal colon cancer may increase the risk of DD (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1-1.04, p = 0.026), while proximal colon cancer and rectal Cancer did not show this association.
Conclusion
The study findings do not support DD as a risk factor for CRC or its precancerous lesion (colorectal adenoma). However, a possible association between distal colon cancer and an increased risk of DD was found, providing new insights into the prevention and treatment of both diseases.
High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatographic method for Simultaneous Determination of Some Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists with Amlodipine in spiked human plasma with UV Detection
Authors: Khorshed Ahmed A. , Abdelnaeem Fatma M. , Nagy Dalia M , Oraby Mohamed , Derayea Sayed M. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

A simple, sensitive, precise, and cost-effective high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method has been developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of Amlodipine (AML) and some Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonist (AIIRA) drugs, including Olmesartan (OLM), Telmisartan (TLM), Candesartan (CAN), Losartan (LOS), and Irbesartan (IRB), in spiked human plasma. The HPTLC analysis utilized a mobile phase consisting of toluene: ethyl acetate: methanol: acetone: acetic acid (6:1.5:1:0.5:1, v/v/v/v/v) on an aluminum-backed layer of silica gel 60 F254. AML demonstrated a linear relationship within the range of 60–600 ng/band, while the AIIRA drugs (OLM, TLM, CAN, LOS, IRB) showed linearity within the range of 90–900 ng/band. The proposed method exhibited good linearity, with correlation coefficients (r) ranging from 0.9939 to 0.9998 for all five studied mixtures. The method was validated according to International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines for linearity, accuracy, precision, robustness, and detection and quantitation limits. AML and the investigated AIIRA drugs were successfully detected and quantified in both bulk drug and plasma samples, yielding high recovery percentages and low standard deviation values.
Exploring Communication, Eating, and Swallowing Challenges among Malaysian Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Smith Giuditta , Boey Ting Ying , Chu Shin Ying , Chan Caryn Mei Hsien , Masre Siti Fathiah , Ismail Ismail , Garraffa Maria , Hersh Deborah 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study investigated the challenges and coping strategies among Malaysian HNC patients who are still verbal communicators with respect to eating, swallowing, and communication habits.
Methods
Ten patients with HNC (nine males, age range 49–73) were recruited from a single hospital in Malaysia. In-depth individual interviews (IDIs) were conducted by a trained graduate research assistant and guided by a semi-structured interview guide. Transcribed data from the IDIs were analyzed using thematic analysis, following the six-step approach described by Braun and Clarke.
Results
Respondents identified several key issues that were sorted into three key themes: (1) “You eat because you have to survive”: losing the pleasure in food, (2) “I only talked about what I wanted”: becoming a different communicator, and (3) “…health back. That is what I hope”: negotiating life after cancer. Patients reported a change in eating habits, a loss of pleasure when eating, a change in behaviour in talking, and societal withdrawal. Most of the patients reported coping mechanisms such as resorting to religion or shared experiences with other cancer patients.
Conclusion
This study highlights the need to assess the late effects of HNC and its treatment during each long-term follow-up visit on the psychosocial health of patients, focusing on their mastication and swallowing and decreases in vocal quality. Therefore, speech and language pathology services are crucial for addressing swallowing and communication challenges in patients with HNC.
Shrub encroachment modifies soil properties through plant resource economic traits
Authors: Laorden-Camacho Lucía , Grigulis Karl , Tello-García Elena , Lyonnard Blandine , Colace Marie Pascale , Gallet Christiane , Tappeiner Ulrike , Leitinger Georg , Lavorel Sandra 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims
Shrub encroachment alters ecosystem functions. Yet, changes in plant community traits and soil properties along succession from grassland to shrubland in European mountains are poorly understood.
Methods
We investigated the cascading effects of shrubs on community weighted means (CWM) of plant traits and onto soil properties along a gradient of encroachment in subalpine grasslands in two sites in the Alps using a trait-based approach. We hypothesized that increasing shrub density shifts plant communities towards more conservative traits, which non-linearly increases carbon sequestration and impacts nutrient cycling. We tested our hypothesized model of cascading effects using structural equation models. This model accounted for biomass allocation to leaves and stems in CWM calculations.
Results
Consistent with expectations, CWM dry matter content (DMC) increased and CWM of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) decreased with increasing shrub biomass. Increasing CWM DMC resulted in increasing soil C:N ratio and soil organic matter (SOM) concentration, and decreasing pH. Decreasing CWM P was coupled with decreasing soil available P, but changes in CWM N had no effect on available N. There was however no indication of nonlinear changes.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that with shrub encroachment plant communities gradually become more conservative with tougher and nutrient-poor tissues, which leads to soil acidification, SOM accumulation and lower P availability. We also demonstrate that DMC, an easy measurable trait, is a sufficient indicator for plant tissue quality in shrub encroached subalpine grasslands and could be used in future trait-based models, allowing projections under climate change scenarios.
Prevalence and factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adults in Ghana: A population-based cross-sectional study in the Volta Region
Authors: Frempong Clinton Sekyere , Tarkang Elvis Enowbeyang , Amu Hubert , Gborglah Miriam , Salu Samuel , Otoo David Mensah 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background Vaccines have been instrumental in preventing up to three million deaths globally, according to the WHO. Despite this, COVID-19 vaccine uptake has faced challenges due to vaccine issues, production difficulties, and various socio-demographic, economic, structural, and cultural factors.Objective/aim This study examined these factors influencing vaccine hesitancy among adults aged 18 and older in the Volta Region of Ghana.Methods A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 590 adults from three districts using multistage sampling. Respondents aged 18 years and above were recruited using a structured questionnaire and an interviewer administered approach. Data analysis was conducted using STATA version 16. The relationship between the dependent and independent variables was assessed through logistic regression analysis, with statistical significance determined at a p-value of less than 0.05.Results A 42.5% rate of vaccine hesitancy was found. Key predictors included being an artisan (aOR = 1.99), a trader (aOR = 3.64), lacking nearby healthcare centers (aOR = 1.52), residing in rural areas (aOR = 0.41), earning less than 500 cedis (aOR = 0.57), and having a larger household size (aOR = 0.37). Not receiving information on vaccine side effects from health personnel (aOR = 5.6) was also a significant factor (p < 0.05).Conclusion To enhance COVID-19 vaccine uptake and advance towards SDG 3, ensuring healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages, interventions should address structural, economic, and health system factors.
Neuron-restricted cytomegalovirus latency in the central nervous system regulated by CD4+ T cells and IFN-γ
Authors: Brizić Ilija , Krstanović Fran , Mihalić Andrea , Rashidi Ahmad , Sitnik Katarzyna , Ruzsics Zsolt , Cicin-Sain Luka , Verjans Georges , Jonjic Stipan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the leading cause of congenital viral infections, frequently accompained with long-term neurological sequelae in children. The cell types and mechanisms involved in establishing lifelong CMV latency in brain, from which the virus reactivates intermittently, remain enigmatic. Infection of newborn mice with mouse CMV (MCMV) closely mimicks the pathophysiology of congenital HCMV and was used to unravel the factors involved in CMV infection of the central nervous system (CNS). Here we show that cortex and hippocampus are major sites of productive MCMV infection during the acute phase in newborn mice. Infectious virus was first produced by astrocytes, then microglia, and finally by neurons, which were the major sites of viral replication during the late phase of infection. CD4+T-cells were pivotal in resolving a productive infection in neurons in an interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-dependent manner. IFN-γ can also suppress HCMV infection of human neuronal cell line and neurons in human fetal brain organotypic tissue culture. Finally, we show that MCMV establishes latency in neurons and that CD4+T-cells are crucial to prevent virus reactivation. This study has important translational potential as it demonstrates that boosting CD4+T-cell mediated immunity could prevent neurological sequelae following congenital CMV infection.
Green Biogenic Synthesis of Sn-ZrO2 Nanocomposites Using Musa paradisiaca Peel Extract Under Sonication for Biological and Adsorption Efficacy
Authors: Bhardwaj Diksha , sharma shobhana 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The production of nanoparticles using plant extracts has been the subject of much exploration and study in recent times since it is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method that reduces the use of hazardous chemicals. In this work, Musa paradisiaca (banana) peel extract was used to synthesize Sn-ZrO2 nanocomposites under ultrasonic irradiation. As a capping and reducing agent in the manufacture of Sn-ZrO2 nanocomposites, banana peel extract is crucial. Sn-ZrO2 nanocomposites were synthesized in a green manner were effectively evaluated using a FT-IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS). Studies have been conducted on the antimicrobial properties of synthesized ZrO2 nanocomposites doped with tin against both Gram positive and Gram negative pathogenic bacteria and fungus. Furthermore, free radical scavenging activity against the DPPH and ABTS assay was used to assess the antioxidant activity of green Sn-ZrO2 nanocomposites. The biomimetic synthesised Sn-ZrO2 nanocomposites demonstrated robust antioxidant activity and significant antimicrobial activity that was on par with standard. Further, Sn-ZrO2 nanocomposites shows excellent adsorption capacity of malachite green dye.
FastPrEP: A protocol to evaluate uptake, coverage, and effectiveness of a youth-focused, decentralised and differentiated district-wide HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis program.
Authors: Rousseau Elzette , Davey Dvora , Fynn Lauren , Wallace Melissa , Macdonald Pippa , Pike Carey , Mathola Ntombovuyo , Little Francesca , Leonard Bryan , Lebelo Keitumetse , Bekker Linda-Gail 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Adolescents and young people (AYP) are at increased risk of HIV acquisition and onward transmission in South Africa. The benefits of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are well established, however, epidemic impact depends on access, effective use and scale-up. Project Design: FastPrEP is an implementation science project that aims to scale up oral and novel PrEP modalities through differentiated service delivery to improve uptake and optimal use of PrEP in key populations. Designed to leverage some of the attributes that make fast-food popular such as efficiency, access, variety (choice) and flexibility, FastPrEP aims to further “demedicalise” the buy-in and access to HIV prevention methods. Attracting young people regardless of HIV serostatus, FastPrEP will deliver PrEP as part of integrated sexual and reproductive health (SRH) packages tailored for key youth populations using mobile clinics (n = 4) and local government clinics (n = 12) as “hubs” for PrEP initiation. These and other community-based outlets such as youth clubs, courier delivery, schools and other youth frequented venues will serve as “spokes” for PrEP maintenance. FastPrEP aims to scale up PrEP in a dense, HIV-burdened, peri-urban community of approximately one million people in Cape Town. We will adopt the RE-AIM framework to evaluate the FastPrEP intervention among diverse AYP aged 15–29 years (targeting approximately 25 000 AYP) and their sexual partners of any age. We will use a phased approach to build the program and evaluate PrEP uptake and persistence in AYP over time. Objectives: The overall objective is to evaluate whether community-wide, differentiated delivery of PrEP with regard to user choice leads to greater PrEP uptake among sexually active youths who would benefit most from comprehensive HIV protection. Secondary objectives include evaluating the differences in demographic, socio-behavioural, and risk behaviours between PrEP users and non-PrEP users to determine the effectiveness of demand creation strategies and evaluate the utility of different PrEP outlets. Conclusion: FastPrEP will evaluate the scale-up of community-delivered, differentiated PrEP to AYP and their sexual partners and will improve understanding of differentiated delivery of PrEP services on PrEP persistence in key populations.
Seismic Resilience Assessment of Transportation Networks Based on Time-Varying Function
Authors: Bu Haifeng , Jiang Huanjun , Fang Suixi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The resilience assessment of transportation road networks has gained significant attention in recent years since the concept of community resilience was developed. Providing a universally accepted method to assess the seismic resilience of transportation road networks comprehensively remains challenging. Herein, a quantified indicator for seismic resilience assessment of transportation road networks is developed. The time-varying function of transportation road networks is proposed first. The Monte Carlo method is employed to simulate the time-varying function and the full probabilistic seismic resilience of the road networks under earthquakes, considering the uncertainty factors in the quantification process. Furthermore, a post-earthquake restoration strategy of transportation road networks based on system function sensitivity is proposed. A comparative analysis reveals that the sensitivity-based restoration strategy significantly enhances the post-earthquake restoration speed of the road networks, leading to the improvement of its seismic resilience. A case study is conducted for an urban district in Shanghai, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method in evaluating the seismic resilience of the transportation network systems. The proposed quantification and optimization methods for the seismic resilience of transportation networks provide decision support for post-earthquake road access, community resource allocation, and transportation recovery strategies.
Wu Mei Pill Mitigates Dopaminergic Neuron Damage-Induced Parkinson's Disease in Mice Through Modulation of the Gut-Brain-Microbiota Axis
Authors: Zhang Zuowen , Huang Jie , Shen Lan , Bai Yinyou , Li Shishuang , Wang Shumei 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
The aim of this research is to delve into the preventive and therapeutic effects of Wu Mei Pill (WMP) on Parkinson's disease (PD), with a special emphasis on its capability to counteract the PD-induced imbalance in gut microbiota and unveil its underlying mechanisms.
Methods
In this investigation, a PD mouse model induced by 6-OHDA was employed to study the impact of WMP. Following the establishment of the PD model, a range of evaluations including behavioral assessments, immunohistochemistry, Western Blot (WB), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were executed to assess neurological functions and the influence of WMP on PD. Fecal samples and brain tissues were analyzed for microbiome and transcriptome studies.
Results
Administration of WMP improved neurological function, elevated the number of TH + cells, and enhanced the dopamine levels in the brain. The damage to dopaminergic neurons induced by 6-OHDA was associated with an upsurge in pro-inflammatory bacteria (Bacteroides), and bacteria involved in tryptophan metabolism (Azospirillum_sp.47_25 and unclassified_Bacteroidia) and cholesterol metabolism (unclassified[Eubacterium]_coprostanoligenes_group), along with a reduction in anti-inflammatory bacteria (Roseburia). WMP addressed these microbial shifts and key metabolite alterations (L-Tryptophan and Bambuterol) in the brain.
Conclusion
The alterations in the microbiome triggered by damage to dopaminergic neurons have the potential to aggravate PD symptoms. WMP was able to correct significant microbial and metabolic disturbances in the brain, thus reducing the loss of dopaminergic neurons, boosting dopamine levels, and enhancing neurological functions.
Detoxification of furan aldehydes by Acinetobacter baylyi ADP1
Authors: Liu Changshuo , Efimova Elena , Santala Ville , Santala Suvi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The efficient utilization of lignocellulosic hydrolysates in bioprocesses is impeded by their complex composition and the presence of toxic compounds, such as furan aldehydes, formed during lignocellulose pretreatment. Biological detoxification of these furan aldehydes offers a promising solution to enhance the utilization of lignocellulosic hydrolysates. Acinetobacter baylyi ADP1 is known to metabolize furan aldehydes, yet the complete spectrum of reaction products and dynamics remains unclear. Here, we determined the detoxification metabolites of furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in A. baylyi ADP1 and studied the kinetics of detoxification. The results indicate that detoxification in A. baylyi ADP1 follows a typical alcohol-aldehyde-acid scheme, with furoic acid and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxylic acid as the final products for furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, respectively. Both end products were found to be less toxic for cells than their unmodified forms. These findings underscore the potential of A. baylyi ADP1 in detoxifying lignocellulose hydrolysates for bioprocess applications.
Emotional Labour, Job Satisfaction, and Burnout in Medical Technicians: Insights from the Korea Veterans Health Service
Authors: Hong Eun-Taek , Seo Yo-Han 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Previous research on emotional labour, job satisfaction, and burnout in hospitals has primarily focused on nurses or treated medical technicians as a single occupational group. However, recognising the diverse experiences within different medical technician roles necessitates a more nuanced analysis. This study aims to determine the correlation among emotional labour, job satisfaction, and burnout in medical technicians and provide foundational data for human resource management.
Methods
Participants included 570 medical technologists, radiology technologists, physical therapists, and dental hygienists working in six hospitals under the Korea Veterans Health Service in July 2022. A standardised self-administered questionnaire was used, with 290 participants responding, yielding a response rate of 50.9%. In Model I, burnout was the dependent variable, while emotional labour, job satisfaction, and subjective health status were the independent variables. Model II considered participants’ sociodemographic characteristics and factors influencing their current job choice or potential job changes, building on Model I.
Results
Factors influencing burnout varied across medical technician occupations. In Model II, burnout was significantly affected by medical technologists’ job satisfaction (B=-0.203, P = 0.014), radiology technologists’ emotional labour (B = 0.546, P = 0.024), physical therapists’ emotional labour (B = 0.466, P < 0.001) and subjective health status (B = 3.234, P = 0.029), and dental hygienists’ subjective health status (B = 5.788, P = 0.030). These results highlight the need for tailored management strategies and further research.
Conclusion
Given the variation in factors significantly affecting burnout among occupational groups, tailored interventions, and detailed research specific to each group are necessary.