bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficient electrocatalytic CO2 reduction to ethylene using cuprous oxide derivatives
Authors: Dong Wenfei , Fu Dewen , Zhang Zhifeng , Wu Zhiqiang , Zhao Hongjian , Liu Wangsuo 
Published: October 2024

Copper-based materials play a vital role in the electrochemical transformation of CO2 into C2/C2+ compounds. In this study, cross-sectional octahedral Cu2O microcrystals were prepared in situ on carbon paper electrodes via electrochemical deposition. The morphology and integrity of the exposed crystal surface (111) were meticulously controlled by adjusting the deposition potential, time, and temperature. These cross-sectional octahedral Cu2O microcrystals exhibited high electrocatalytic activity for ethylene (C2H4) production through CO2 reduction. In a 0.1 M KHCO3 electrolyte, the Faradaic efficiency for C2H4 reached 42.0% at a potential of −1.376 V vs. RHE. During continuous electrolysis over 10 h, the FE (C2H4) remained stable around 40%. During electrolysis, the fully exposed (111) crystal faces of Cu2O microcrystals are reduced to Cu0, which enhances C-C coupling and could serve as the main active sites for catalyzing the conversion of CO2 to C2H4.
Genetic characterization of Neisseria meningitidis isolates recovered from patients with invasive meningococcal disease in Lithuania
Authors: Slavinska Anželika , Kowalczyk Magdalena , Kirkliauskienė Agnė , Vizuje Greta , Siedlecki Paweł , Bikulčienė Joana , Tamošiūnienė Kristina , Petrutienė Aurelija , Kuisiene Nomeda 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionNeisseria meningitidis is a gram-negative bacterium responsible for life-threatening invasive infections known as invasive meningococcal disease and is associated with high fatality rates and serious lifelong disabilities among survivors.MethodsThis study aimed to characterize N. meningitidis isolates cultured from blood and cerebrospinal fluid collected between 2009 and 2021 in Lithuania, assess their genomic relationships with European strains, and evaluate the possibility of using a cost-effective method for strain characterization, thus improving the national molecular surveillance of invasive meningococcal disease. In total, 321 N. meningitidis isolates were collected and analyzed using multilocus restriction typing (MLRT). Amplification of the penA gene and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis were performed to identify the modified penA genes. Based on the MLRT genotyping results, we selected 10 strains for additional analysis using whole-genome sequencing. The sequenced genomes were incorporated into a dataset of publicly available N. meningitidis genomes to evaluate genomic diversity and establish phylogenetic relationships within the Lithuanian and European circulating strains.ResultsWe identified 83 different strains using MLRT genotyping. Genomic diversity of N. meningitidis genomes analysed revealed 21 different sequence types (STs) circulating in Lithuania. Among these, ST34 was the most prevalent. Notably, three isolates displayed unique combinations of seven housekeeping genes and were identified as novel STs: ST16969, ST16901, and ST16959. The analyzed strains were found to possess virulence factors not commonly found in N. meningitidis. Six distinct penA profiles were identified, each with different frequencies. In the present study, we also identified N. meningitidis strains with new penA, NEIS0123, NEIS1320, NEIS1525, NEIS1600, and NEIS1753 loci variants. In our study, using the cgMLST scheme, Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) analysis did not identify significant geographic relationships between Lithuanian N. meningitidis isolates and strains from Europe.DiscussionDiscussion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to employ whole genome sequencing (WGS) method for a comprehensive genetic characterization of invasive N. meningitidis isolates from Lithuania. This approach provides a more detailed and precise analysis of genomic relationships and diversity compared to prior studies relying on traditional molecular typing methods and antigen analysis.
The influence of perilipin 5 deficiency on gut microbiome profiles in murine metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and MAFLD-hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Krizanac Marinela , Štancl Paula , Mass-Sanchez Paola Berenice , Karlić Rosa , Moeckel Diana , Lammers Twan , Asimakopoulos Anastasia , Weiskirchen Ralf 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionMetabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has emerged as the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. Over the years, Perilipin 5 (PLIN5) has been recognized as a key regulator of both MAFLD and HCC development. In our previous studies we demonstrated that deficiency in Plin5 reduces the severity of MAFLD and HCC in mice. Interestingly, it has been established that patients with MAFLD and HCC exhibit various changes in their gut microbiome profiles. The gut microbiome itself has been shown to play a role in modulating carcinogenesis and the immune response against cancer.MethodsTherefore, we conducted a study to investigate the alterations in fecal microbiome composition in wild type (WT) and Plin5-deficient (Plin5-/-) mice models of MAFLD and MAFLD-induced HCC (MAFLD-HCC). We utilized 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis to profile the composition of gut bacteria in fecal samples.ResultsNotably, we discovered that the absence of Plin5 alone is already associated with changes in gut microbiota composition. Moreover, feeding the mice a Western diet (WD) resulted in additional microbial alterations. Interestingly, Plin5-/- animals exhibited an enrichment of the beneficial taxa Lactobacillus in both animal models.DiscussionOur findings identify Plin5 as a major regulator of gut microbiota during the development of MAFLD and MAFLD-HCC.
How is autism portrayed in news media? A corpus-based, mixed-methods analysis in China
Authors: Zhou Wanting , Guan Wei 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionNews media play an important role in shaping public perceptions of and attitudes toward people with autism. This study examines news reports about autism in China Daily over the past 20 years, from 2003 to 2022.MethodsThis study employed both quantitative and qualitative analyses.ResultsThe findings reveal that news coverage on autism predominantly centers on children, with a significant shift in focus from support by family members and schools to support at the broader societal and governmental levels. Further, the overall representation of autism remains predominantly negative and rooted in prejudice. In terms of gender representation, autism is often depicted more frequently as male-oriented. However, a more diverse representation of age groups has emerged. Finally, while news media subtly convey negative attitudes toward autism, they also demonstrate a concurrent concern for the condition, reflecting a complex and nuanced attitude toward people with autism.DiscussionOur study indicates that corpus-assisted critical discourse analysis allows researchers to compare news over time, thus offering insights into changing discourses. The analysis can also reduce bias and uncover the implicit attitudes of news media toward autism by analyzing patterns of words and discourses.
The predictive role of the TAPSE/sPAP ratio for cardiovascular events and mortality in systemic sclerosis with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: de Pinto Marco , Coppi Francesca , Spinella Amelia , Pagnoni Gianluca , Morgante Vernizia , Macripò Pierluca , Boschini Matteo , Guerra Anna Francesca , Tampieri Francesca , Secchi Ottavio , Orlandi Martina , Amati Gabriele , Lumetti Federica , Sandri Gilda , Rossi Rosario , Boriani Giuseppe , Mattioli Anna Vittoria , Ferri Clodoveo , Giuggioli Dilia 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionReduced TAPSE/sPAP ratio has recently emerged as a predictive parameter risk factor for PH, however its role in SSc has been poorly investigated. The aim of the study was to investigate the prognostic value of the TAPSE/sPAP ratio for the prediction of mortality and cardiovascular events in patients with SSc complicated by PH. A comparison between SSc patients with PAH (SSc-PAH) and those with PH and significant ILD (SSc-PH) was also carried out.Materials and methodsA retrospective single-center study in which all patients having SSc—complicated by PH—referring to the Scleroderma-Unit of the AOU Policlinico of Modena, from October 2013 to October 2023 were evaluated. All SSc patients underwent recurrent clinical examination, routine blood chemistry analysis, functional, instrumental evaluation.Results61 SSc patients (F/M 52/9) were enrolled. During the follow-up, 60.1% of patients experienced at least one cardiovascular event and 62% died. The main causes of death were PH (39.4%) and other heart-related events (39.4%). The TAPSE/sPAP ratio was significantly lower in deceased patients compared to survivors (mm/mmHg 0.3 ± 0.12SD vs. 0.48 ± 0.17SD, p &lt; 0.001). Compared to the SSc-PAH subgroup, the SSc-PH patients had lower survival rates (55.3 ± 31.2 SD months vs. 25 ± 19 SD, p = 0,05). At the multivariate analysis, TAPSE/sPAP ratio &lt;0.32 mm/mmHg, male gender, and the presence of significant ILD were identified as independent predictors of mortality and cardiovascular events.ConclusionOur work confirmed the predictive role of the TAPSE/sPAP ratio for mortality and cardiovascular events in patients with SSc complicated by PH.
Charge density mapping demonstrates superiority in catheter ablation of post-surgical atrial tachycardias
Authors: Gagyi Rita B. , Minciuna Ioan A. , Bories Wim , Szili-Torok Tamas 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionAtrial tachycardia (AT) frequently occurs after cardiac surgery or surgical ablation procedures. The novel charge density-based mapping system (CDM) provides global chamber mapping and can detect crucial pathways of conduction; therefore, it has potential added value in catheter ablation (CA) of post-surgical ATs. We aimed to test the hypothesis that CDM-guided CA procedures are safe, feasible, and may improve outcome compared to conventional sequential 3D mapping (CARTO)-based CA.Methods and resultsConsecutive patients undergoing CA for post-surgical AT guided by CDM or CARTO were enrolled. Procedural safety and efficiency were analyzed. Acute success, one-year outcome was assessed. A total of 35 patients (mean age 60.8 ± 10.6 years, 42.9% female) underwent CA of AT using CDM (n = 20) and CARTO (n = 15). A total of 61 ATs were mapped (35 in CDM and 26 in CARTO group). Four patients had focal ATs, 22 macro re-entrant, and 8 patients had ATs with both mechanisms. No differences were found in procedural complication (CDM 3 vs. CARTO 1 patient, p = 0.61). There were no differences in procedure duration (185.9 vs. 147.9 min, p = 0.09), fluoroscopy dose (165.0 vs. 155.0 mGy, p = 0.31), RF application number (28.0 vs. 18.0, p = 0.17) or duration (1,251.5 vs. 1,060.0 s, p = 0.54). Acute success was 95.0% in CDM and 73.3% in CARTO group (p = 0.14). Cumulative AT recurrence rates were lower in CDM group compared to CARTO group (10.0% vs. 46.7%, p = 0.02).ConclusionsThe CDM system is feasible. Our data suggest that patients treated with CDM-guided CA developed fewer AT recurrences as compared to CARTO-guided procedures.
Association between ablation-induced baroreceptor reflex modification and procedure efficacy in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Zuk Anna , Piotrowski Roman , Sikorska Agnieszka , Kowalik Ilona , Kulakowski Piotr , Baran Jakub 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundThe autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a significant role in atrial fibrillation (AF). Catheter ablation (CA) is a well-established treatment method for AF and significantly affects the ANS, including baroreceptor (BR) function. However, little is known about the changes in BR function caused by radiofrequency (RF) or cryoballoon energy (CB) and its impact on future AF recurrences.PurposeTo assess 1-year efficacy of CA of AF in relation to BR function modification and type of ablation energy used.MethodsThe study group consisted of 78 patients (25 females, mean age 58 ± 9 years) with paroxysmal AF and first CA (39 patients in the RF group and 39 in the CB group). The BR function was assessed non-invasively, using tilt testing before and after CA, and three BR parameters were calculated: event count (BREC) depicting overall BR activity, slope mean depicting BR sensitivity (BRS), and BR effectiveness index (BEI). The efficacy of CA was assessed during 1-year follow-up, which consisted of ambulatory visits and 24-h Holter ECG recordings at 3, 6, and 12 months after CA. The quality of life was assessed by using a dedicated scale [University of Toronto Atrial Fibrillation Severity Scale (AFSS)].ResultsThe two groups did not show differences in terms of clinical or demographic data. One-year follow-up was completed for 35 (89.7%) patients from the CB group and for 34 (87.2%) from the RF group. The rates of efficacy of CB and RF were similar [31/35 (88.6%) vs. 26/34 (76.5%), respectively]. After CA, the BR function decreased in both groups, with a significantly greater decrease in the CB group. The changes in BR parameters were similar in both responders and non-responders after CA in the whole group [BREC 10.0 (2.0–24.0) vs. 12.0 (4.0–21.5), p = 0.939; BRS 5.4 (3.7–6.5) vs. 4.8 (3.6–7.2), p = 0.809; BEI 24.8 (15.9–27.4) vs. 17.5 (8.9–27.5), p = 0.508, respectively]. According to the AFSS, the AF symptoms were significantly reduced in both groups to a similar extent.ConclusionsCA for AF significantly decreased the BR function, especially in patients undergoing CB. There was no correlation between CA-induced changes in BR parameters and ablation outcome.
Exploration of physical activity, sedentary behavior and insulin level among short sleepers
Authors: Chen Yuquan , You Yanwei , Wei Mengxian , Yang Ping , Zhang Qi , Li Xingzhong , Zuo Qun , Cao Qiang 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundSufficient physical activity and sleep duration are essential for overall health. While one-third of the US population reports short sleep (&lt;7 h), which is proven to link with negative health status. Current evidence on the relationship between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and serum insulin level in short sleep groups is limited.MethodsThe National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) was used to conduct this cross-sectional study of 8,494 adults (NHANES) 2007–2018. Serum insulin was quantitatively tested by human insulin immunoassay. Short sleep conditions were defined as ≤7 h per night. Physical activity conditions, including work activity, recreational activity, and sedentary behavior, were self-reported in NHANES by the Physical Activity Questionnaire using a 7-day recall method. The main analyses utilized weighted linear regression models due to the complex multistage sampling design of NHANES. Subgroup analysis and the influence of different lipid indices were explored in this study. In addition, a sensitivity analysis of participants without diabetes was conducted.ResultsIn fully adjusted models, increased levels of work and recreational activity significantly reduced insulin levels, with β values 95% CI = -0.002 (-0.003, 0.001) and β values 95% CI = -0.008 (-0.012, -0.003), respectively. However, sedentary behavior was positively associated with insulin levels, with a β value 95% CI =0.022 (0.009, 0.034). The sensitivity analysis further confirmed the benefits of recreational activity in controlling insulin levels. Through sex stratification analysis, it seemed that physical activity was more obviously impacted in the male than female groups.ConclusionsOverall, our analysis demonstrates that in short sleepers, an increased level of work and recreational activity is beneficial to control the insulin level, and more sedentary time is harmful. However, this association might be discrepant in different sexes and different levels of lipid indices.
Trends and frontiers of RNA methylation in cancer over the past 10 years: a bibliometric and visual analysis
Authors: Liu Bo-Na , Gao Xiao-Li , Piao Ying 
Published: October 2024

PurposeTo highlight the trends and frontiers of RNA methylation in cancer over the past 10 years.MethodsResearch publications on RNA methylation in cancer were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Bibliometrix were used to conduct bibliometric and visualization analysis of countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords relevant to this field.ResultsFrom 2014 to 2023, research on RNA methylation in cancer has developed rapidly, with an overall increase in the number of publications and citations. China (4320 papers, 115056citations), Sun Yat Sen University (274 papers, 15698 citations), and Zhang, Wei (48 papers, 893 citations) are respectively the countries, institutions, and authors with the highest number of published papers and citations. Frontiers in Oncology (182 papers, 2524 citations) and Molecular Cancer (69 papers, 9224 citations) are the journals with the highest number of published papers and citations in this field, respectively. Co-occurrence analysis of keywords indicates that the research topics can be divided into five clusters: Cluster one: The Role of RNA Methylation in Tumor Heterogeneity, Therapeutic Response, and Prognosis; Cluster two: The Role of Noncoding RNA in RNA Methylation and Tumors; Cluster three: Potential Therapeutic Targets of RNA Methylation in Tumors; Cluster four: The role of RNA methylation in tumor progression and metastasis: A case study of hepatocellular carcinoma and gastric cancer; Cluster five: Regulation mechanisms of m6A methylation in leukemia cell differentiation and tumorigenesis.ConclusionThis is the first comprehensive study using bibliometrics to analyze the trends and frontiers of RNA methylation in cancer over the past 10 years, pointing out promising research directions for the future and providing valuable references for researchers in this field.
Determinants of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women in Bench Sheko zone, Southwest Ethiopia: a case-control study
Authors: Yosef Tewodros , Eyasu Ephrem , Shifera Nigusie , Abebe Gossa Fetene , Girma Desalegn , Habte Aklilu , Ahmed Ahmed Fentaw , Asefa Adane 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundHepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection during pregnancy poses serious risks by raising the likelihood of chronic infection in newborns by 90% and the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer by 25% in chronic infections. This study aimed to identify determinants of HBV infection among pregnant women in the Bench Sheko zone, Southwest Ethiopia.MethodsAn unmatched case-control study was conducted from May 15 to July 15, 2022, in selected health facilities of the Bench Sheko zone, Southwest Ethiopia. Medical charts were reviewed to collect the HBsAg status of participants, as all pregnant women attending antenatal care underwent routine screening. It involved 228 pregnant women (76 HBV-positive cases and 152 HBV-negative controls). Data were collected using structured questionnaires, and analyzed using SPSS 21. A multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify significant determinants of HBV infection, and statistical significance was declared at p-value &lt;0.05.ResultsAfter controlling potential confounders, having no formal education (AOR = 4.94, 95% CI: 2.01, 8.29; P = 0.007), urban residency (AOR = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.43, 6.86; P = 0.010), history of unsafe abortion (AOR = 3.87, 95% CI: 2.17, 6.98; P &lt; 0.001), sharing sharp materials (AOR = 8.43, 95% CI: 5.54, 10.9; P &lt; 0.001), contact with HBV-infected persons in the family (AOR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.72, 4.87; P &lt; 0.001), tribal scarification (AOR = 3.23, 95% CI: 1.24, 8.91; P = 0.017), and history of unsafe tooth extraction (AOR = 4.52, 95% CI: 2.18, 9.76; P = 0.039) were identified as significant predictors of HBV infection.ConclusionThe study identifies multiple factors contributing to HBV infection in pregnant women. Therefore, it is crucial to promote safe abortion practices and the responsible use of sharp materials, avoid high-risk contact with infected individuals within the family, raise awareness about the risks associated with tribal scarification while advocating for safer practices, and offer education on safe tooth extraction methods to reduce the risk of HBV.
Induction of neutralizing antibody responses by AAV5-based vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus in mice
Authors: Ma Gangyuan , Xu Zeping , Li Chinyu , Zhou Feng , Hu Bobo , Guo Junwei , Ke Changwen , Chen Liqing , Zhang Guilin , Lau Hungyan , Pan Hudan , Chen Xixin , Li Runze , Liu Liang 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionRespiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a significant cause of respiratory illnesses worldwide, particularly in infants and elderly individuals. Despite the burden RSV imposes, effective preventive measures are limited. The research application of adeno-associated virus (AAV) in vaccine platforms has been expanding, and its potential in prevention and treatment has garnered much attention.MethodsIn this study, we explored the potential application of a recombinant adeno-associated virus 5 (rAAV5) vector-based RSV vaccine, focusing on the expression of the pre-fusion (Pre-F) protein structure. Through intramuscular immunization in mice. The immunogenicity of the vaccine was evaluated in Balb/c mice immunized intramuscularly and intranasal, respectively.ResultsThe rAAV5-RSV-Fm vaccine demonstrated positive humoral and induced antibody titers against RSV strains A and B for up to 120 days post-immunization. Notably, intranasal administration also elicited protective antibodies. Characterization studies confirmed the ability of the vac-cine to express the Pre-F protein and its superior immunogenicity compared to that of full-length F protein.ConclusionThese findings underscore the potential application of rAAV5 vector platforms in RSV vaccine development and further investigation into their protective efficacy is warranted.