bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a clinical and laboratory-based nomogram to predict mortality in patients with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome
Authors: Xiao Wenyan , Zhang Liangliang , Cao Chang , Dong Wanguo , Hu Juanjuan , Jiang Mengke , Zhang Yang , Zhang Jin , Hua Tianfeng , Yang Min 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging global infectious disease with a high mortality rate. Clinicians lack a convenient tool for early identification of critically ill SFTS patients. The aim of this study was to construct a simple and accurate nomogarm to predict the prognosis of SFTS patients.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 372 SFTS patients collected between May 2015 and June 2023, which were divided 7:3 into a training set and an internal validation set. We used LASSO regression to select predictor variables and multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictor variables. Prognostic nomograms for SFTS were constructed based on these factors and analysed for concordance index, calibration curves and area under the curve (AUC) to determine the predictive accuracy and consistency of the model.
Results
In the training set, LASSO and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that age, SFTSV RNA, maximum body temperature, pancreatitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, pulmonary fungal infection (PFI), BUN, and PT were independent risk factors for death in SFTS patients. There was a strong correlation between neurological symptoms and mortality (P < 0.001, OR = 108.92). Excluding neurological symptoms, nomograms constructed based on the other eight variables had AUCs of 0.937 and 0.943 for the training and validation sets, respectively. Furthermore, we found that age, gastrointestinal bleeding, PFI, bacteraemia, SFTSV RNA, platelets, and PT were the independent risk factors for neurological symptoms, with SFTSV RNA having the highest diagnostic value (AUC = 0.785).
Conclusions
The nomogram constructed on the basis of eight common clinical variables can easily and accurately predict the prognosis of SFTS patients. Moreover, the diagnostic value of neurological symptoms far exceeded that of other predictors, and SFTSV RNA was the strongest independent risk factor for neurological symptoms, but these need to be further verified by external data.
All black: a microplastic extraction combined with colour-based analysis allows identification and characterisation of tire wear particles (TWP) in soils
Authors: Foetisch Alexandra , Grunder Adrian , Kuster Benjamin , Stalder Tobias , Bigalke Moritz 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

While tire wear particles (TWP) have been estimated to represent more than 90% of the total microplastic (MP) emitted in European countries and may have environmental health effects, only few data about TWP concentrations and characteristics are available today. The lack of data stems from the fact that no standardized, cost efficient or accessible extraction and identification method is available yet. We present a method allowing the extraction of TWP from soil, performing analysis with a conventional optical microscope and a machine learning approach to identify TWP in soil based on their colour. The lowest size of TWP which could be measured reliably with an acceptable recovery using our experimental set-up was 35 µm. Further improvements would be possible given more advanced technical infrastructure (higher optical magnification and image quality). Our method showed a mean recovery of 85% in the 35-2000 µm particle size range and no blank contamination. We tested for possible interference from charcoal (as another black soil component with similar properties) in the soils and found a reduction of the interference from charcoal by 92% during extraction. We applied our method to a highway adjacent soil at 1 m, 2 m, 5 m, and 10 m and detected TWP in all samples with a tendency to higher concentrations at 1 m and 2 m from the road compared to 10 m from the road. The observed TWP concentrations were in the same order of magnitude as what was previously reported in literature in highway adjacent soils. These results demonstrate the potential of the method to provide quantitative data on the occurrence and characteristics of TWP in the environment. The method can be easily implemented in many labs, and help to address our knowledge gap regarding TWP concentrations in soils.
Two-Stage Whole-Exome Sequencing Improves to Predict a Risk of Adult Moyamoya Disease in 369,570 Individuals
Authors: Hong Eun Pyo , Ha Eun Jin , Youn Dong Hyuk , Chung Yuwhan , Kim Kang Min , Lee Sung Ho , Cho Won-Sang , Kang Hyun-Seung , Jeon Jin Pyeong , Kim Jeong Eun 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Whole-exome sequencings (WES) have an informative in the limelight to identify causative mutations for adult moyamoya disease (MMD), understanding genomic structures of etiology. Here, we conducted inaugural two-stage WES aimed at uncovering coding modifiers implicated in MMD. Our study comprised an initial discovery phase with 105 MMDs and 115 controls, followed by validation phases involving 55 MMDs and 74 controls, alongside 100 disease-free subjects. We extended comparisons of the allele frequencies of 369,121 individuals derived from UK Biobank (UKB) WES data. Mutant allele risk scores (MARS) were created on the basis of WES-driven mutations. Gene-based association and East-Asian pooled analyses were further performed. During the discovery phase, p.G576S (rs1800307-GAA) and p.R4810K (rs112735431-RNF213) reached at a genome-wide significance threshold (P = 2.63×10-8 and 2.24×10-16, respectively), with p.R4810K being confirmed in the validation phase (P = 3.08×10-8). One insertion (p.S2026ins:rs112774151-MUC4) demonstrated the most significance in 160 MMDs and 100 disease-free controls (P = 5.65×10-16). Fourteen mutations exhibited significant differences in allele frequencies between patients and UKB controlled data (P < 1×10-8). MARS9 incorporating nine missense mutations resulted in an enhanced predictability for MMD (AUROC = 0.8323). Gene-based associations replicated across all phases for GAA, RNF213, CHMP6, and CARD14 (P < 5×10-7). For mutations in RNF213, p.V1195M, p.D1331G, p.S2334N, and p.R4810K were validated in East-Asian populations (P < 3×10-8). Our pioneering study corroborate the significance of p.R4810K and uncover several novel mutations predisposing patients, thereby understanding polygenetic aspect to the etiology of MMD.
Impact of Wearable Acceleration-Monitored Simulated Vigorous Intermittent Lifestyle Physical Activity on Muscle Strength in Young Adults
Authors: Zeng Yuxin , Ke Zezhi , Zhuang Xiaodong , Huang Zihao , Wang Suisui , Zhang Xu , Cai Shu , Liao Lizhen 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The benefits of sustained structured physical activity for general health have been widely investigated. Current guidelines also recognize the research potential of short bouts of activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a simulated vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity (VILPA) intervention monitored by wearable devices on lower limb muscle strength.
Methods
Totally, 40 healthy sedentary college-age students were recruited to wear accelerometry for a prolonged period of time and undergo an eight-week simulated VILPA intervention using a single-arm pre-post design. Demographic information and blood lipids were collected before and after the intervention. Muscle strength was measured by isokinetic muscle strength testing and surface electromyography. Finally, 35 participants completed the study.
Results
The mean age of the participants was 19.9 ± 1.1 years. After the simulated VILPA intervention, participants experienced significant increases in weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, waist circumference, and triglyceride levels. Additionally, there were significant improvements in peak torque and peak torque normalized to body weight for bilateral ankle dorsiflexor and plantarflexor muscle groups post-intervention. The surface electromyography examinations revealed significant increases in root mean square (RMS) and average electromyography (AEMG) values for all three calf muscle groups (anterior tibialis, gastrocnemius, and soleus) post-intervention, although parameters for the gastrocnemius muscle were significantly different only in the right calf.
Conclusion
Three bouts of VILPA per day enhance calf muscle strength in healthy populations. VILPA appears to be suitable for non-exercisers as a timesaving and potentially effective intervention measure.
Prognostic significance of innovative inflammation-nutrition biomarker score in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Shibutani Masatsune , Kashiwagi Shinichiro , Tanda Hideki , Seki Yuki , Takada Koji , Kasashima Hiroaki , Fukuoka Tatsunari , Maeda Kiyoshi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

A new index, inflammation-nutrition biomarker score (INS), based on host factors, including lymphocyte to C-reactive protein ratio, C-reactive protein to albumin ratio advanced lung cancer inflammation index, and nutritional risk index, correlated with post-operative survival time independent of the tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) stage, in a cohort of patients with various types of malignancies. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of INS in patients with colorectal cancer who underwent curative resection. We retrospectively evaluated 476 consecutive patients who underwent curative surgery for stages I–III colorectal cancer. Based on the INS definition, 240, 132, 57, 23, and 24 patients had a score of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Patients with INS of 0 and 1 were classified into the low-INS group, and those with INS of 2, 3, and 4 were classified into the high-INS group. The relapse-free and overall survival rates were significantly worse in the high-INS group than in the low-INS group. Furthermore, multivariate analysis of the prognostic factors indicated that INS is an independent prognostic factor for poor relapse-free and overall survival. The combined evaluation of INS and TNM stages may allow for more accurate prognostication.
Discovery of novel non-retroviral endogenous viral elements reveals their long-term co-evolution with spiders
Authors: Wang Manli , Hu Hengrui , Vlak Just , Hu Zhihong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Endogenous viral elements (EVEs) are widespread in the genomes of various organisms and have played a crucial role in evolution. Historically, research on EVEs primarily focused on those derived from retroviruses; however, the significance of non-retroviral EVEs (nrEVEs) has gradually gained recognition. In this study, we employed a novel approach that combines protein structure prediction with sequence analysis to identify a large group of previously unrecognized nrEVEs across spider genomes. Additionally, we identified nrEVE-related messenger RNAs, microRNAs, and PIWI-interacting RNAs in spiders, suggesting that these nrEVEs may be functionally active. We also experimentally confirmed the presence of spider nrEVEs and their transcripts in individual spiders. Evolutionary analysis suggests that these spider nrEVEs originated from an ancestral nuclear arthropod large DNA virus (NALDV) belonging to the order Lefavirales, class Naldaviricetes, approximately 270 million years ago. The integration of these nrEVEs occurred prior to the last common ancestor of the Araneae, indicating a long-term co-evolutionary relationship between these nrEVEs and spiders. Our findings reveal a novel group of nrEVEs and provide valuable insights into their evolutionary relationship with arthropods.
Developing a Comprehensive Inventory to Define Harm Reduction Housing
Authors: Zaragoza Sofia , Silcox Joseph , Rapisarda Sabrina , Summers Charlie , Case Patricia , To Clara , Chatterjee Avik , Walley Alexander , Komaromy Miriam , Green Traci 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The City of Boston has faced unprecedented challenges with substance use amidst changes to the illicit drug supply and increased visibility of homelessness. Among its responses, Boston developed six low threshold harm reduction housing (HRH) sites geared towards supporting the housing needs of people who use drugs (PWUD) and addressing health and safety concerns around geographically concentrated tent encampments. HRH sites are transitional supportive housing that adhere to a “housing first” approach where abstinence is not required and harm reduction services and supports are co-located. Despite the importance of HRH, the specific characteristics and operations of these sites are not well understood. This study sought to address this gap by cataloging the common features of Boston’s HRH sites to generate a comprehensive inventory tool for evaluating implementation of harm reduction strategies at transitional housing locations.
Methods
We collected data between June and September 2023 and included semi-structured qualitative interviews with HRH staff (n = 19), ethnographic observations and photos at six HRH sites. Candidate inventory components were derived through triangulation of the data. Two expert medical staff unaffiliated with data collection reviewed a draft inventory measuring awareness and utility of HRH inventory components. We then pilot tested the inventory with 3 HRH residents across two sites for readability and reliability. Inventory performance was further tested in a survey of 106 residents.
Results
HRH staff identified best practices, resources, and policies in HRH sites that were further contextualized with ethnographic field notes. Common to all were overdose prevention protocols, behavioral policies, security measures, and harm reduction supplies distribution. The initial 44-item inventory of services, policies and site best practices was further refined with expert and participant feedback and application, then finalized to generate a 32-item inventory. Residents identified and valued harm reduction services; medical supports were highly valued but less utilized.
Conclusion
The HRH inventory comprehensively assesses harm reduction provision and residents’ awareness and perceived helpfulness of HRH operational components. Characterizing the critical components of HRH through this tool will aid in standardizing the concept and practice of HRH for PWUD and may assist other cities in planning and implementing HRH.
Overview of styles, content, learning effects and attitudes of students towards digitally enhanced physiotherapy education – a scoping review
Authors: Pagels Larissa , Schindler Oskar , Luedtke Kerstin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Digital competences are essential for lifelong learning, as highlighted by the European Commission and emphasized in the Digital Education Action Plan 2021–2027. The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated an unprecedented shift to online education, profoundly impacting fields like physiotherapy that heavily rely on practical skills. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of currently applied digitally enhanced learning methods, content, effectiveness and student perceptions in physiotherapy education.
Methods
Following PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews, a comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including Medline, Web of Science, and ERIC, incorporating hand searches and expert consultations. Studies were included if they reported on any digital educational methods in physiotherapy education, involving clinical trials, observational studies, or case reports published in English or German from 2010 to February 2024. Data extraction focused on the digital tools that were used, the educational contents, individually measured outcomes, and the impact of digital education.
Results
Out of 2988 screened studies, 68 met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 7160 participants. These studies primarily used quantitative methods (n = 51), with a minority using qualitative (n = 7) or mixed methods (n = 6). Nearly half employed hybrid educational approaches. Outcomes measure included knowledge, performance, perception, satisfaction, and attitudes. Most studies reported positive impacts of digital education, particularly in knowledge transfer and skill performance. Synchronous and asynchronous methods were used, with varying success across theoretical and practical courses. Gamification and virtual reality emerged as promising tools for enhancing engagement and learning outcomes. However, challenges included the limited direct interaction and perceived self-efficacy among students.
Conclusion
Digital learning formats in physiotherapy education can enhance learning experiences and is generally welcomed by students, especially when blended with traditional methods. The integration of innovative digital strategies holds promise for the future of physiotherapy training, contingent on comprehensive support and training for educators and students alike.
Carbon materials based on lignin and their environmentally friendly applications
Authors: jaouadi mouna 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The green revolution concept has accelerated the pace of innovation to avoid the use of materials that can harm the environment. In this work, the valorization of lignin and olive wastes was studied. Olive stone used to prepare activated carbons which are modified by lignin. The carbons were characterized by TGA-DTA, FTIR spectroscopy, adsorption-desorption of N2 at 77K, Boehm titration and the measure of pHPZC. FTIR results show the presence of some groups that confirm that carbons based lignin can be used as fertilizers. BET results show micro- mesoporous structure of carbons materials, they might be used as electrodes. Boehm titration shows the increase of phenolic groups in modified carbon, which confirms that lignin can be used as bio-composites. The thermal analyses show the high stability after lignin coating so the carbon based on lignin can be used as a green biofuel.
FPGA Design and Implementation for Montgomery Multiplication Algorithm Using MATLAB HDL Coder
Authors: Elsayed Ghada , Abass Eman 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Modular multiplication for large numbers is very important in cryptography algorithms such as RSA and Elliptic curves. The Montgomery algorithm is the most famous and efficient one for calculating it. Hardware implementation for cryptography co-processors is better than software implementation in terms of speed and security. Many FPGA Designs for the Montgomery Multiplication algorithm was published based on hardware description languages like VERILOG and VHDL. This paper proposes the FPGA Design and implementation using MATLAB HDL Coder.
Results: We modified the algorithm such that it can fit any small/Large FPGA by introducing scaling factor. The design is configurable in both modulus length and the scaling factor. This paper performs a comparison between the synthesizing results for different scales and for different modulus lengths. We synthesized up to 8K bit modulus length and we can increase it easily. In this paper we can implement different modulus lengths with different frequencies and with different area utilization. The design utilizes different area resources for each configuration. The target is xc7vx330t-2ffg1157 Virtex-7 Xilinx FPGA. The maximum frequency is 80.81MHz for 4K bit modulus length with 8-bit data width and 2 serialization factor. The minimum area utilization is achieved for minimum configurations i.e. 1kbit modulus length with 8-bit data width and for unity serialization factor.
Conclusions: In this paper, we propose an efficient and configurable FPGA Design for Montgomery Multiplication Co-processor based HDL coder design.
Analysis of Bacterial Diversity in Street Food and Its Functional Gene Pathways Based on Metagenomic Technology
Authors: Li Ke , Hu Xuefeng , Zhang Ailin , Zhang Duanyin , Li Xiaodan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Street food has become the top choice in people's lives due to its convenience and variety. However, the safety issues of street food are also becoming increasingly prominent. To understand the composition of the microbial community in street food and predict its functional genes, this study randomly selected 70 samples of seven types of food around colleges and universities, including snack foods (fried and baked foods), cooked food products, pastries, cold dishes, beverages, staple foods (rice and flour foods), and salad sushi. These 70 samples were analyzed by 16S rDNA sequencing using mutagenic high - throughput sequencing technology, focusing on the composition and diversity of microbial communities in different street foods and gene functional prediction. The results showed that the highest richness values of Chao1, ACE, and Shannon were observed in snacks (SN), while the lowest were in salad (SA). The highest Simpson richness value was found in snacks (SN), and the lowest in sulla (SU). A total of nine bacterial phyla were identified from the seven food samples, involving 152 bacterial genera, with nine of them being shared genera. The dominant genera in MF, SF, SU, BE, and SA were Pantoea, Weissella, Bacillus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas, respectively. KEGG functional gene prediction for the seven food samples indicated that the microorganisms in these samples were mainly associated with six major groups and 35 secondary - level metabolic pathways. These pathways are mainly related to six major functional categories (KEGG level 1), namely metabolism, genetic information processing, information processing, cellular processes, human diseases, and organism systems. The results of this study will not only assist consumers in choosing street food but also provide new ideas for the future safety evaluation of street food.
Performance and emission evaluation of a CRDI diesel engine powered with a novel ternary blend of diesel, biodiesel, and ethanol: A sustainable waste-to-energy approach
Authors: Kumar Manish , Ansari Naushad Ahmad , Gautam Raghvendra 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Biodiesel shows promise as a substitute fuel for combustion ignition engines, but challenges such as poor low-temperature flow properties, high viscosity, and cost constraints limit its potential. To address these issues, researchers are exploring the utilization of Diesel-biodiesel-ethanol (DBE) blends. In this study, the impact of diesel with biodiesel obtained from (waste cooking oil (WCO) and waste plastic oil (WPO)) and ethanol was examined on a single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 3.2kW power CRDI (Common rail direct injection) diesel engine under various loads. The research also investigates the impact of cold Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) rates of 7% and 14%. In this work, WCO biodiesel is obtained through a two-step esterification process meeting ASTM standards. The D40CB10E10 blend demonstrates the highest BTE among the biodiesel blends. EGT decreases with rising ethanol content, while CO, CO2, and HC emissions are minimum for DBE blends compared to diesel. The D60CB20E20 blend shows the lowest NOx emissions due to ethanol's vaporization heat, and smoke density is lower for (WCO + WPO) biodiesel. These findings highlight the positive impact of DBE blends on the environment by improving efficiency and reducing emissions. It also shows that these blends may be used as a replacement for conventional diesel fuel without any modifications in the existing engine.