bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Comparison of Nanosilica and Polyacrylamide/Polyethyleneimine Gels as Water Shutoff Agents in Permeable Matrix
Authors: Ali Ahmed , Al Ramadan Mustafa , Aljawad Murtada Saleh , Almohsin Ayman , Azad Madhar Sahib , Sultan Abdullah 
Published: September 2024

Summary
The oil and gas industry faces numerous challenges, among which the management of excessive water production is a significant concern. Nanosilica gel is a newly developed silicate gel for water shutoff applications. No investigation has been conducted to evaluate the gel’s performance over an extended period. The objective of this study is to evaluate the long-term performance of nanosilica gel in a permeable matrix over 6 months while also comparing this performance with polyacrylamide/polyethyleneimine (PAM/PEI) gel. Coreflooding experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of the nanosilica gel of 75/25 wt% (nanosilica/activator) and PAM/PEI gel (9/1 wt%) on carbonate core samples at 200°F. The experiment involved initial permeability assessment, gel placement, and endurance tests up to 1,000 psi. Additional measurements of computed tomography (CT) scan and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were implemented: CT scans visualized density changes, and NMR measured fluid distribution in the pore system. Then, samples were aged at 167°F for 6 months, with endurance tests (up to 1,000 psi) conducted in the first, third, and sixth months to assess gel-plugging efficiency. The results demonstrated nanosilica gel’s remarkable plugging efficiency, achieving a reduction in permeability from 144.85 md to 0.001 md initially and sustaining differential pressures up to 1,000 psi with minimal leakoff rates. After 6 months, nanosilica gel maintained plugging efficiency above 99.98%, while PAM/PEI gel efficiency reduced to 99.85%. The nanosilica gel achieved slightly better long-term plugging performance than PAM/PEI gel with a maximum leakoff rate of 0.25 cm3/min in 6 months (2.165 cm3/min for PAM/PEI gel). CT scan analysis confirmed effective gel placement within the pore systems, and minimal degradation occurred over time with less significant impact on the efficiency of nanosilica gel compared with PAM/PEI gel.
Single-nucleus and spatial transcriptome identify brain landscape of gene regulatory networks associated with behavioral maturation in honeybees
Authors: Zheng Hao , Mu Xiaohuan , Liu Qun , Ma Jie , Qin Yating , Zhang Zijing , Zhang Yingying , Zhang Nannan , Guo Qunfei , Zhang Pei , Li Denghui , Zhang Ruihua , Ji Qianyue , Jiang Aijun , Wang Yang , Pan Shanshan , Liu Xiawei , Liu Xuemei , Sun Jiahui , Meng Liang , Lu Haorong , Zhang He , Li Qiye , Liu Junnian , Yang Huan-Ming , Wang Jian , Xu Xun , Liu Shanshan , Zhai Yifan , Zheng Li , Liu Yan , Hu Xiaosong , Chen Hao 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Animal behavior is associated with the gene regulatory network (GRN) coordinating gene expression levels in the brain. The eusocial honeybees with natural behavioral plasticity provide an ideal model for studying the relationship between brain activity and behaviors. Here, using single-nucleus RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, we profile the expression changes of 121,247 brain cells associated with the behavioral maturation of honeybees from nursing to foraging outside. We identified 24 subpopulations of brain cells, including Kenyon, glia, optic lobes, and olfactory projection neurons. Compared to non-social insects, Drosophila, the Keyon cells display a high diversity in the mushroom body of honeybees. Integrating spatial and cellular profiles finds that the mushroom body and optic lobes show specifically high activities of the regulons led by different transcription factors. The stripe regulon is activated explicitly in the foragers’ small- and middle-type Keyon cells implicated in spatial learning and navigation behavior. These suggest that the activity of individual brain cells is coordinated by specific GRNs during the behavioral transition of honeybees. Our results provide a deeper understanding of the behavior-associated brain heterogeneity in GRN, which may be a key driver for the division of labor in social life.
NCANet: Integrating Normalized Channel Attention for Enhanced Lightweight Image Classification
Authors: Chentao Qian , Liu Bailin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Deep convolutional neural networks (CNN) have demonstrated remarkable success in various applications.However, deploying these models on mobile or embedded devices is challenging due to constraints such as limited memory, computational resources, and low classification accuracy.We propose a novel design, NCANet (Normalized Channel Attention Network),an enhancedversion of MobileNetV3-large, to address challenges in feature representation within lightweight neural networks.First, the normalized channel attention mechanism is added to adjust the image-feature channel weights so as to improve the recognition accuracy of the model.Second, the MetaACON activation function is introduced, replacing the ReLU activation function to further enhance performance.Third, to minimize computational costs and the number of parameters, we utilize asymmetric 1×5 and 5×1 convolutions to replace the traditional 5×5 convolution. The experimental results on CIFAR-10, CIFAR-100 and ImageNet datasets achieve the highest accuracy 93.24%, 80.12% and 77.9%, respectively.This demonstrates that NCANet exhibits greater efficiency compared to lightweight models and significantly outperforms state-of-the-art networks with lower complexity.
Engraftment of wild-type alveolar type II epithelial cells in surfactant protein C deficient mice
Authors: Dorrello Nicolino Valerio , Predella Camilla , Lapsley Lauren , Ni Keyue , Murray John , Liu Hsiao-Yun , Motelow Joshua , Snoeck Hans-Willem , Glasser Stephan , Saqi Anjali 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Childhood interstitial lung disease (chILD) secondary to pulmonary surfactant deficiency is a devastating chronic lung disease in children. Clinical presentation includes mild to severe respiratory failure and fibrosis. There is no specific treatment, except lung transplantation, which is hampered by a severe shortage of donor organs, especially for young patients. Repair of lungs with chILD represents a longstanding therapeutic challenge but cell therapy is a promising strategy. As surfactant is produced by alveolar type II epithelial (ATII) cells, engraftment with normal or gene-corrected ATII cells might provide an avenue to cure. Here we used a chILD disease-like model, Sftpc-/- mice, to provide proof-of-principle for this approach. Sftpc-/- mice developed chronic interstitial lung disease with age and were hypersensitive to bleomycin. We could engraft wild-type ATII cells after low dose bleomycin conditioning. Transplanted ATII cells produced mature SPC and attenuated bleomycin-induced lung injury up to two months post-transplant. This study demonstrates that partial replacement of mutant ATII cells can promote lung repair in a mouse model of chILD-like disease.
BMSC-Exo miR-122-5p facilitates osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells through specifically suppressing SPRY2
Authors: Chen Zhiyu , Fan Yizhe , Yang Chengyi , Wang Chenhao , Wang Peng , Cheng Shaolei , Wang Yikai , You Wulin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Exosomes (BMSC-Exo) possess the ability to facilitate bone remodeling, and this mechanism has always been of great interest in the field. Our study aimed to elucidate the impacts of BMSC-Exo on MC3T3-E1, the murine embryonic osteogenic progenitor cells, and the interaction behind.
Methods
We initially extracted and characterized exosomes from BMSCs. Following treatment with GW4869, a compound that inhibits exosome production and release, BMSCs produced exosomes (BMSC-Exo). These were subsequently combined in culture with MC3T3-E1 cells. Upon an application of Phalloidin and PKH26 staining, we observed morphology of the cellular actin fibers and the uptake of exosomes. To evaluate the osteogenic potential of the cells, we utilized Alizarin Red S (ARS) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) staining. Additionally, we measured expressions of osteogenic factors RUNX2, ALP, OSX, OCN, and OPN through qRT-PCR and Western blot analyses. Afterwards, we intervened with BMSC-Exo with a lentivirus over-expressing miR-122-5p and co-cultured it with MC3T3-E1 cells. To further assess osteogenic differentiation, we conducted additional ARS & ALP staining, along with qRT-PCR and Western blot assays. With the help of dual-luciferase reporter assay, we found that miR-122-5p interacts specifically with SPRY2. Ultimately, we treated MC3T3-E1 cells with a lentivirus over-expressing miR-122-5p and a plasmid over-expressing OE-SPRY2. Osteogenic differentiation was then assessed using ARS & ALP staining, qRT-PCR, and Western blot.
Results
Our laboratory outcomes demonstrated that exosomes derived from BMSC-Exo are instrumental in the advancement of calcified nodule genesis within MC3T3-E1 cells, concurrently amplifying the transcriptional and translational expressions of osteogenic markers (RUNX2, ALP, OSX, OCN, and OPN). These excreted exosomes from the BMSCs modified by a miR-122-5p-over-expressing lentivirus are found to further accelerate osteogenic differentiation of the cells. Moreover, our application of dual-luciferase reporter gene system has elucidated a specific interplay between miR-122-5p and SPRY2. Furthermore, overexpressing of SPRY2 negates the miR-122-5p-induced osteogenic differentiation.
Conclusions
BMSC-Exo facilitates osteogenic differentiation in MC3T3-E1 cells by suppressing SPRY2, a process mediated by miR-122-5p.
Direct TaqMan Assay for the Detection and Genotyping of Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Type 1 and 2
Authors: Ullah Shakir , Notsu Kosuke , Saito Akatsuki , Okabayashi Tamaki , Mekata Hirohisa , Isoda Norikazu , Sekiguchi Satoshi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), caused by bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), has a significant economic impact on affected farms worldwide. For effective disease control, it is crucial to select appropriate vaccinations based on the specific genotype of BVDV. Therefore, developing a rapid and reliable assay to detect and genotype BVDV is imperative to control the spread of disease. In this study, we developed a direct TaqMan assay to detect and genotype BVDV type 1 and 2 from bovine serum. The direct BVDV TaqMan assay effectively detected both BVDV1 and BVDV2 with confirmed specificity and showed no cross-reactivity with other viruses (BRSV, BCoV, AKAV, BoHV-1, BPIV-3, BIV, or BLV). Limit of detection (LOD) determination from serum revealed that the assay could detect serum samples with a viral titer of 102 TCID50/mL in two out of three trials for BVDV1 and 102 TCID50/mL across all trials for BVDV2, which was equivalent to the sensitivity of virus isolation. Our findings represent a significant advancement in BVDV detection and typing directly from bovine serum.
Enhancing Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in a Virtual Reality: A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Kim Bogoan , Jeong Dayoung , Choi Yoonseon , Choi Yoonyoung , Kim Hyungsook , Han Kyungsik 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of depression has highlighted Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) as an effective treatment. However, conventional MBCT has several limitations, including barriers to access, the need for trained professionals, and inconsistent levels of participant engagement. The feasibility of using Virtual Reality (VR) for MBCT has emerged as a promising solution, but its efficacy remains underexplored. This study examines the potential of VR-based treatment to alleviate symptoms of depression. We developed and evaluated introductory mindfulness exercises and a three-session VR-MBCT program and conducted a feasibility study. Using the Meta Quest Pro and the E4 wristband, we collected data from 73 participants and analyzed feasibility, engagement, and behavioral patterns. Results showed high concentration levels, distinct emotional responses, and unique interaction patterns in the depression group. While survey data showed no significant differences between the depression and non-depression groups in terms of the usability and presence of VR, sensor data indicated higher entropy in electrodermal activity for the depression group, suggesting better emotional confrontation. Overall, our study highlighted the user-friendly and immersive aspects of VR-MBCT and its feasibility for alleviating depressive symptoms in individuals with depression.
Selection and validation of reference genes for RT-qPCR normalization in dormant cancer cells
Authors: Iskhakova Elina , Aleksandrova Kseniia , Suvorova Irina 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Recent findings have indicated that pharmacological inhibition of the mTOR kinase can become a widely used experimental approach to generate dormant cancer cells in vitro. However, the suppression of mTOR, which is responsible for global translation, can significantly rewire basic cellular functions influencing the expression of housekeeping genes. To prevent incorrect selection of a reference gene in dormant tumor cells, we analyzed the expression stability of the widely used housekeeping genes GAPDH, ACTB, TUBA1A, RPS23, RPS18, RPL13A, PGK1, EIF2B1, TBP, CYC1, B2M, and YWHAZ in T98G, A549, and PA-1 cancer cell lines treated with the dual mTOR inhibitor AZD8055. It has been revealed that the expression of the ACTB gene, encoding the cytoskeleton, and the RPS23, RPS18, and RPL13A genes, encoding ribosomal proteins, undergoes dramatic changes, and these genes are categorically inappropriate for RT-qPCR normalization in cancer cells treated with dual mTOR inhibitors. B2M and YWHAZ were determined to be the bestl reference genes in A549 cells, and the TUBA1A and GAPDH genes were the best reference genes in T98G cells. The optimal reference genes among the 12 candidate reference genes were not revealed in the PA-1 cell line. Validation of the stability of the 12 investigated genes demonstrated that the incorrect selection of a reference gene led to a significant distortion of the gene expression profile in dormant cancer cells.
Sustainable Materials Through Cultural Integration: From Vintage to Modern Functionality
Authors: Sivasubramanian Ganarajan , Mahesh V. K. , Archana P. , Lasya P. , Sree K.M. , Sreek V. , Pillai V.P. Mahadevan , Sreeka KM 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study solemnizes cultural tapestry and material science to engineer sustainable and market-adoptable consumer products, culminating in the design of a standalone transdisciplinary domain, which we call ‘culture-infused material science’. Initially, we designed a holistic conceptual framework propelled by a dynamic and iterative loop that integrates stakeholder empowerment and material innovation, inspiring research and development, education and entrepreneurship. Following this pathway, we transformed a cultural symbol, culinary bronze from the Indian state Kerala into a functional material. A traditional foundry-manufactured sputter target reformed the culinary bronze into a cytocompatible antimicrobial coating. The current work explicitly explores innovations in food contact surfaces for human hygiene and health. We bring out the importance of human acceptance of materials or technology in scientific interventions to be one of the core pillars in the design features of sustainable formulations.
The effect of stop X exercises on balance, strength and range of motion of football players with dynamic knee valgus defect
Authors: chenari rahman hasani , firouzjah ebrahim mohammad ali nasab , roshani sajad 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Dynamic valgus of the lower limb is known as a risk factor associated with improper muscle function for many lower limb injuries, especially knee injuries. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of Stop X exercises on the balance, strength and range of motion (ROM) of football players with dynamic knee valgus (DKV) defect. Thirty football players with dynamic knee valgus defect were selected purposefully and were randomly divided into two groups, control (n = 15) and training (n = 15). Stork tests, Y-balance test (YBT), goniometer, and digital dynamometer were used to evaluate static balance, dynamic balance, ROM, and hip abduction and external rotation strength, respectively. Analysis of covariance and dependent t-tests were used to compare the between and within group differences. There is a significant difference between the groups in the variables of hip abduction and external rotation strength and ROM, static balance and total score of YBT. The results demonstrated that performing Stop X exercises resulted in significant improvements strength and ROM of the hip, static and dynamic balance of football players with DKV defect, which show the importance of using these exercises to improve balance, muscle strength and ROM in this group of football players.
Co-occurring Illicit Fentanyl Use and Psychiatric Disorders in Emergency Department Patients
Authors: Downs Allie , Walter Lauren , Shelton Richard , Li Li 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This paper sought to describe the characteristics of emergency department (ED) patients with illicit fentanyl use and concurrent psychiatric disorders, as studies within this population of patients is limited. ED patients with a fentanyl-positive urine drug screen were identified, and patient characteristics, medical histories, and test results were extracted. Among the fentanyl positive drug screens of ED patients, the majority were between the ages of 25 and 44, male, white, and uninsured. Additionally, more than one third of these patients had concurrent psychiatric disorders with mood disorders being the most prevalent, followed by psychotic disorders. Patients with co-occurring psychiatric disorders were found to have higher rates of marijuana use, repeat ED visits and/or hospital admissions at six months, and more admissions to psychiatry inpatient settings compared to those patients without co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Concurrent other substance use and rates of buprenorphine prescribing at discharge were not different between the groups; however, rates of naloxone provision at discharge were lower in patients with co-occurring psychiatric disorders. This cohort demonstrates higher healthcare recidivism and utilization.
Beyond the Pandemic: Addressing Post-COVID Conditions and Enhancing Workforce Resilience in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Jhe-Ping , Chen Yu-Wen , Yang Chen-Chang , Yang Ting-An , Hsu Ya-Yuan , Tsao Yu-Chung 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019 led to a global health crisis, profoundly affecting various aspects of life. Despite Taiwan's effective control measures, the long-term impact of COVID-19 on the workforce remains a concern.
Aims: This study examines the post-COVID conditions and workforce resilience in Taiwan.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to October 2023 among individuals in Taiwan who had contracted SARS-CoV-2. Participants were categorized into two groups: those with post-COVID conditions and those without. Data collected included demographic information, COVID-19 symptoms, health assessments, and work-related factors.
Results: Of 306 respondents, 208 had post-COVID conditions. These individuals exhibited persistent respiratory and neurological symptoms, lower physical and psychological well-being (p<0.001), higher levels of fear of COVID-19 (p=0.013), and increased insomnia severity (p<0.001) compared to healthy controls. Post-COVID conditions also significantly impacted work capacity, with affected individuals reporting higher rates of employment-related changes (p=0.046) and reduced work ability (p<0.001).
Conclusion: This study highlights the enduring challenges faced by the Taiwanese workforce post-COVID-19. Targeted interventions integrating healthcare and employment policies are crucial to support recovery and enhance workforce resilience in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Modeling the Cost of Inaction in Treating Obesity in Canada
Authors: Chen Fang , Sapra Tanvi , Natale Zachary , Dall Timothy M , Patton Ian , Sockalingam Sanjeev 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Obesity prevalence continues to rise in Canada, highlighting a growing public health concern. This study updates estimates of the societal cost of inaction in treating obesity, emphasizing the significant economic burden stemming from both direct healthcare costs and indirect productivity losses.
Methods
We combined data from national surveys and published literature to estimate the 2023 national economic implications of obesity. Comparing adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) to those with healthy weight (25 > BMI ≥ 18.5), we assessed healthcare costs, absenteeism, presenteeism, disability pensions, mortality-related costs, workforce participation, and earnings. Canadian data were used where possible, supplemented by U.S. data, standardized to 2023 CAD$.
Results
The cost of inaction in treating obesity in Canada was $27.6 billion in 2023, including $5.9 billion in direct healthcare and $21.7 billion in indirect costs. Excess healthcare costs are driven by higher utilization of medical services. Indirect costs include approximately $8.2 billion from reduced workforce participation, $6.8 billion from presenteeism, $3.8 billion in lower earnings among employed with obesity, $2.0 billion from lost wages due to premature mortality, $682 million from absenteeism, and $268 million from disability pensions.
Conclusions
The economic implications of not addressing obesity effectively are substantial, emphasizing the urgent need for utilizing effective chronic disease management strategies. Our findings highlight the disproportionate impact on women and the broader economic consequences, underscoring the imperative for tailored policy interventions. Investing in comprehensive, evidence-based obesity management not only enhances individual well-being but also yields significant societal and economic benefits.
A Computational Study of the Size Effect of SiO 2 Spherical Nanoparticles in Water Solvent
Authors: Pérez-Tovar Carlos A. , Hernández-Bravo Raiza , Parra José G. , Camacho Nayeli , Castillo Jimmy , Mujica Vladimiro 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

A computational study was carried out at the molecular level through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to examine how the size of SiO2 spherical nanoparticles (NPs) influences their surface properties due to molecular interactions. This study comprehensively describes the interaction between SiO2 spherical NPs and water molecules as a solvent medium. Our goal is to provide valuable insights into the significance of nanoparticle size in understanding their behavior and the resulting changes in the physical properties of materials. Our results indicate that SiO2 NPs exhibit a strong affinity for water, which increases with the nanoparticle size. This was confirmed by the radial function distribution and hydrogen bond analysis, which revealed a strong interaction between the silanol groups on the SiO2 NPs and the water molecules. The molecular interactions that control the dynamic behavior of the nanoparticle-water system are hydrogen bond, electrostatic, and dipole-dipole interactions. Furthermore, the results of the elasticity values indicated that SiO2 NPs only exhibit a high degree of functionality at specific sizes, making them suitable as a size-dependent filler material.