bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sepsis Prediction: Biomarkers Combined in a Bayesian Approach
Authors: CABRAL Joao Victor Batista , SILVEIRA Maria Mariana Barros Melo da , XAVIER Amanda Tavares , de OLIVEIRA Fabio Henrique Portella Correa , MENEZES Thaysa Maria Gama Leao de Albuquerque , BARBOSA Keylla Talitha Fernandes , FIGUEIREDO Thaisa Remigio , FILHO Jabiael Carneiro da SILVA , SILVA Tamara , FILHO Dario Celestino SOBRAL , de OLIVEIRA Dinaldo Cavalcanti 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Sepsis is a serious public health problem. The soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 is a marker of inflammatory and infectious processes that has the potential to become a useful tool for predicting the evolution of sepsis. To build a prediction model for sepsis by combining soluble triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells-1, C-Reactive Protein, and leukogram using a Bayesian network.
Methods
This is an exploratory translational study, was carried out with 32 children with congenital heart disease who had undergone surgical correction in a public referral hospital in the northeast of Brazil. The TRIPOD recommendations were used.
Results
We found that in the postoperative period, the mean soluble triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells-1 was higher among patients diagnosed with sepsis than among those without the diagnosis, respectively (soluble triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells-1 post = 394.58 pg/mL versus 239.93 pg/mL p < 0.001). Analysis of the ROC curve for soluble triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells-1 and sepsis showed that the area under the curve was 0.761 with a 95% CI (0.587–0.935) and p = 0.013. We found, with the Bayesian model, a 100% probability of sepsis related to post-operative blood concentrations of C-Reactive Protein above 71 mg/dL, leukogram values above 14,000 cells/µL, and soluble triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells-1concentrations above the cut-off point (283.53 pg/mL).
Conclusions
The model proposed using the Bayesian Network approach proved to be effective for diagnosing sepsis, with adequate sensitivity and specificity.
Concurrent adoption of multiple less intensive practices is essential for effectively preserving earthworm diversity in agroecosystems: a global meta-analysis
Authors: Betancur-Corredor Bibiana , Zaitsev Andrey , Russell David 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The impact of intensifying land use on biodiversity has been extensively examined through efforts to synthesize available data. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of a thorough synthesis describing the earthworm response to land-use intensification on earthworms. We conducted a global meta-analysis synthesizing 113 publications across 44, yielding 1040 pairwise comparisons of earthworm density and biomass, and 536 pairwise comparisons of earthworm diversity. Arable cropland has significantly lower earthworm density (-18%), biomass (-15%), and species richness (-27%) compared to undisturbed sites. Conversely, higher earthworm density, biomass and species richness were observed in extensive pastures, sites under agroforestry, crop management with fallow periods and crop-livestock integration. In regions with continental climates characterized by cool summers exhibit more favorable earthworm responses to intensification. In compacted sites with low organic matter content the adverse effects of intensification are exacerbated. However, highly heterogeneous earthworm responses cannot be explained by the individual evaluation of climatic, soil-related, or management factors. Our results guide future efforts to address the data limitations that enable us enhance our understanding of the interactive effects of various factors on earthworm responses to land-use intensification, as well as evidence-based and management strategies targeted at promoting sustainable agricultural systems while preserving soil biodiversity.
Efficacy of Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy Including Asymmetric Resection for Treating Palmar Hyperhidrosis : A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lian Luoyu , Huang Jinlong , Hong Wenshan , Lin Dongliang , Zhang Weiqing , Xu Zhendong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective:This study aims to retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of single-segment thoracic sympathotomy in treating palmar hyperhidrosis.
Methods:We conducted a retrospective study at our center from January 2018 to January 2022. A total of 226 patients with palmar hyperhidrosis, who underwent single-segment endoscopic sympathectomy, were divided into R3, R4, and asymmetric segment groups (R3 / R4 group). We analyzed the effectiveness, side effects, and patient satisfaction of the three treatments through telephone and online patient consultations.
Results: All groups experienced similar surgery duration, hospital stay, and blood loss. The R3 group (104 patients) had the lowest recurrence rate (1 case), followed by the R4 group (92 patients, 3 cases), and the R3/R4 group (30 patients, 1 case). Compensatory hyperhidrosis was observed in 21 cases in the R3 group and 19 in the R4 group. The R3/R4 group reported compensatory hyperhidrosis in 24 cases, mostly Grade I and II. Satisfaction was highest in the R3 group, closely followed by the R3/R4 group and then the R4 group. This indicates that both R3 and R4 single-segment resections are effective, with R3 showing higher patient satisfaction and lower recurrence, and the asymmetric R3/R4 approach also proving to be a viable option.
Conclusion: Single-segment resection of either R3 or R4 can effectively manage palmar hyperhidrosis. Patients who underwent R3 resection experienced fewer recurrences and reported higher satisfaction than those who underwent R4 resection. Furthermore, compensatory hyperhidrosis didn't notably rise. Asymmetric single-segment resection, with its thicker vascular coverage, is also a viable treatment option.
A Neanderthal Extinction Hypothesis: Agent Based Simulation of Birth Complications Theory
Authors: Bilge Ugur , Olgan Safak , Ciplak Battal , Ozbek Metin , Kayikci Deniz , Uysal Hilmi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The Neanderthal extinction is a pivotal yet unresolved event in human evolutionary history. Prevailing theories have attributed their disappearance to environmental pressures and competition with Homo sapiens, but these have not fully accounted for the longevity of Neanderthal presence across diverse and challenging landscapes. According to our hypothesis, birth complications caused by the Neanderthal skull and broad shoulders, which could no longer pass through the pelvic bone, which changed its shape with the onset of bipedalism, played a major role in the Neanderthal extinction. Because these complications lead to increase in maternal mortality rate. Here, we present a novel hypothesis suggesting that anatomical constraints on Neanderthal childbirth may have been a critical but previously overlooked factor contributing to their decline. Leveraging agent-based modeling, we simulate the population dynamics of Neanderthals, incorporating paleoanthropological data on their robust cranial dimensions, which likely led to increased birthing complications. Our simulation and mathematical model project a gradual demographic collapse, primarily driven by heightened neonatal and maternal mortality rates, thereby offering a plausible mechanism for Neanderthal extinction. This interdisciplinary approach provides a nuanced perspective, implicating the evolutionary trade-offs of even a minimum increase in maternal mortality in the Neanderthal’s fate and underscores the fragility of survival amidst evolutionary adaptations.
Construction and validation of a predictive model to improve the performance of non-wearable actigraphy in psychiatric setting: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Takeshita Yuko , Odachi Ryo , Nakashima Keisuke , Nishiyama Naoki , Nozawa Kyosuke , Matoba Kei , Nakano Natsuko , Mashita Midori , Mamiya Yoshimasa , Yamakawa Miyae , Buyo Momoko , Adachi Hiroyoshi , Ikeda Manabu , Takeya Yasushi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2021 to January 2023 in the psychiatric unit of a major university hospital in western Japan. The aim was to evaluate the performance of Nemuri SCAN (NSCAN), a non-wearable mat sensor developed in Japan for sleep monitoring and compare it to that of polysomnography (PSG) among psychiatric patients—a population not previously studied using this technology. The performance of NSCAN compared to that of PSG was lower than that reported in a preliminary study. To improve the performance of NSCAN, we developed a logistic regression model (proposed model) by incorporating data on 10 patient characteristics into the NSCAN decision algorithm, the Cole–Kripke equation (Cole model). The agreement, sensitivity, and specificity were 77.8% vs. 78.8%, 97.3% vs. 94.5%, and 28.2% vs. 38.9% for the Cole model and the proposed model, respectively. Notably, the proposed model demonstrated higher specificity, indicating improved performance in accurately identifying wakefulness. These findings highlight the importance of including patient characteristics in sleep monitoring algorithms and support the potential application of NSCAN in psychiatric care settings.
The ensemble Kalman filter for dual estimation of hand-foot-mouth disease prediction and forecasting in Korea
Authors: Abbas Wasim , Lee Sieun , Kim Sangil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
In Korea, Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is a recurring illness that presents significant public health challenges, primarily because of its unpredictable epidemic patterns. The accurate prediction of the spread of HFMD plays a vital role in the effective management of the disease.
Methods
We have devised a dynamic model that accurately represents the transmission dynamics of HFMD. The model includes compartments for susceptible, exposed, inpatients, outpatients, recovered, and deceased individuals. By utilizing monthly inpatient and outpatient data, the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) method was employed to perform a dual estimation of model parameters and state variables. The calibration of model parameters involved using data from the months of January to May, while generating forecasts for the timeframe spanning from June to December.
Results
The findings reveal a significant alignment between the model and the observed data, as evidenced by root-mean-square error (RMSE) values below 1000 for inpatients and below 10000 for outpatients starting in June. The correlation coefficients surpassed 0.9, except for the year 2015. The implications of our findings suggest a notable shift in transmission and recovery rates, starting in 2015.
Discussion
The model successfully predicted the peak and magnitude of HFMD outbreaks occurring between June and December, closely matching the observed epidemic patterns. The model’s efficacy in predicting epidemic trends and informing preventive strategies is reinforced by the insights gained from monthly variations in parameter estimates of HFMD transmission dynamics.
Alveolar macrophages from persons with HIV mount impaired TNF signaling networks to M. tuberculosis infection.
Authors: Rengarajan Jyothi , Kgoadi Khanyisile , Bajpai Prashant , Ibegbu Chris , Dkhar Hedwin , Enriquez Ana , Dawa Stanzin , Cribbs Sushma 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

People living with HIV (PLWH) have an increased risk for developing tuberculosis (TB) after infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), despite anti-retroviral therapy (ART). To delineate the underlying mechanisms, we conducted single cell transcriptomics on bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells from PLWH on ART and HIV uninfected healthy controls (HC) infected with Mtb ex vivo. We identified an M1-like proinflammatory alveolar macrophage (AM) subset that sequentially acquired TNF signaling capacity in HC but not in PLWH. Cell-cell communication analyses revealed robust interactions between M1-like AMs and effector memory T cells within TNF superfamily, chemokine, and costimulatory networks in the airways of HC. These interaction networks were lacking in PLWH infected with Mtb, where anti-inflammatory M2-like AMs and T regulatory cells dominated along with dysregulated T cell signatures. Our data support a model in which impaired TNF-TNFR signaling, and aberrant AM-T cell crosstalk, lead to ineffective immunity to Mtb in PLWH on ART.
Effect of Fruit and Mint Flavored Rogue Oral Nicotine Product Use on Smoking Reduction and Quitting in a 6-Month Prospective Cohort of Adults who Smoke Cigarettes
Authors: McDowell Elliott H. , Kennedy Jason N. , Feehan Michael , Bell Stacey A. , Marking Sarah E. , Zdinak Jessica P. , Joyce Andrew R. , Humphreys Michelle 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Quitting cigarette smoking can substantially reduce or eliminate the risk of developing numerous chronic diseases. Use of flavored tobacco or nicotine products (TNP) is commonly cited by adults who smoke cigarettes to be important in helping them reduce or quit smoking. The purpose of this analysis was to understand the association between the levels of use of flavored oral nicotine products (ONP) and smoking reduction and quitting and how reduction or quitting may differ between predominant users of fruit/other versus mint flavored ONP after six months of use.
Methods
Participants were provided with their choice of a variety of forms and flavors of Rogue® nicotine products (Study Products, SP) over a 6-month actual use period (AUP) and completed online surveys assessing TNP and SP use at enrollment (Baseline) and Months 1, 2, 4, and 6 thereafter.
Results
Among the 1393 participants at Month 6, 41.4% and 52.5% used predominantly fruit/other or mint SP flavors, respectively. Compared to predominant mint users, predominant fruit/other users had greater cigarette reduction (mean reduction in CPD: 50.0% vs. 48.4%) and a higher proportion had quit smoking (proportion quit: 15.4% vs. 11.6%) at Month 6. Additionally, 37.6% of all participants, 38.8% of predominant fruit/other users, and 39.3% of predominant mint users reduced their average CPD by > 50% from Baseline. Increased use of fruit/other flavors was independently associated with smoking reduction (8.6% greater reduction per 10 pieces/day; p<0.001) and odds of quitting smoking (OR=1.29 [95% CI: 1.04-1.59] per 10 pieces/day; p=0.017). Increased use of mint flavors was independently associated with smoking reduction (7.5% greater reduction per 10 mint pieces/day; p<0.001) but not with odds of quitting smoking.
Conclusions
Increased quantity of fruit/other or mint flavored SP use was associated with significantly greater smoking reduction, and increased quantity of fruit/other flavors was associated with increased odds of quitting smoking in bivariate and multivariable models. The levels of reduction and quitting smoking observed during the study, with an increased benefit for use of fruit/other flavors, suggests that the availability of a variety of ONP flavors may provide an increased harm reduction benefit for adults who smoke cigarettes.
Trial Registration
This study was observational. Participants were not prospectively assigned to one or more health-related interventions and could choose to use or not use the commercially available study products provided during the study. Thus, the study was not registered in a trial database by the Sponsor.
Sex-dependent effects of acute stress and alcohol exposure during adolescence on mRNA expression of several systems involved in stress and reward in the brain of young adult rats
Authors: Gobbi Carlotta , Sánchez-Marín Laura , Flores-López María , Medina-Vera Dina , Pavón-Morón Francisco J. , Fonseca Fernando Rodríguez , Serrano Antonia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Exposure to negative experiences during adolescence increases susceptibility to mental disorders in adulthood. These risks vary significantly between sexes, with males and females potentially experiencing different impacts. Identifying the mechanisms underlying these early events and understanding their sex-specific effects are essential for both prevention and treatment strategies.
Methods
Adolescent Wistar rats of both sexes were used to explore the long-term effects of acute restraint stress and alcohol exposure on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and the mRNA levels of the ACTH precursor proopiomelanocortin (POMC), the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), and several signaling systems, including the corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), the neuropeptide Y (NPY), the opioid receptors (OPRs), and the arginine vasopressin (AVP) systems in the amygdala and hypothalamus.
Results
In males, our findings revealed: 1) stress increased plasma corticosterone (CORT) levels; 2) stress and/or alcohol upregulated CRF signaling; 3) stress or alcohol decreased amygdalar NPY signalling, but increased it in the hypothalamus, increase mitigated by combined exposure; 4) alcohol elevated POMC and MR expression, attenuated by stress and alcohol combination; 5) stress and/or alcohol decreased mRNA levels of opioid receptors; 6) stress and/or alcohol upregulated Avp mRNA levels, but downregulated its receptor expression. In females, our findings revealed: 1) stressed rats showed elevated plasma ACTH levels, and both stress and alcohol increased CORT levels, but combined exposure dampened this rise; 2) alcohol increased amygdalar Crh mRNA, while stress reduced hypothalamic Crh mRNA and alcohol downregulated its receptors; 3) combined stress and alcohol significantly increased amygdalar NPY system mRNA, but downregulated it in the hypothalamus; 4) alcohol decreased POMC and GR expression; 5) alcohol increased Oprm1 and Oprs1 mRNA levels, while stress reduced Oprd1 expression; 6) stress and/or alcohol upregulated Avpr1a mRNA, with the combination increasing Avp mRNA.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that both acute restraint stress and alcohol exposure during adolescence induced long-term, sex-dependent alterations in the mRNA expression of several system involved in the regulation of the stress response and reward. This highlights the importance of considering sex differences in developing strategies for the prevention and treatment of stress-related disorders.
Graphene nanosheets wrapped on SnO 2 -CuS nanoparticles as high- performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Cheng Jianpeng , Xiong Deping , Jiang Wenqin , Ye Wenbin , Song Peng , Feng Zuyong , He Miao 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The synthesis of the ternary composite nanomaterial, SnO2-CuS-Graphene, involved a combination of hydrothermal and ball-milling techniques. Within the composite structure, the SnO2-CuS composite nanomaterials are evenly adhered to the Graphene, effectively shortening the diffusion pathways for electrons and Li+. This results in reduced volume fluctuations of the electrode during cycling, ultimately amplifying the conductivity of the hybrid material and offering plentiful active sites for lithium absorption. As a result, the SnO2-CuS-Graphene composite nanomaterial demonstrates exceptional electrochemical performance, achieving an impressive reversible capacity of 1106.7 mAh g− 1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g− 1 and maintaining a high reversible capacity of 991 mAh g–1 after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A g− 1. These results underscore its remarkable cycling stability and substantial reversible capacity.
Development of a fully automated workstation for conducting routine SABRE hyperpolarization
Authors: Yang Jing , Xin Ruodong , Lehmkuhl Sören , Korvink Jan G. , Brandner Jürgen J. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

SABRE is emerging as a fast, simple and low-cost hyperpolarization method because of its ability to regenerate enhanced NMR signals. Generally, SABRE hyperpolarization has been performed predominantly manually, leading to variations in reproducibility and efficiency. Recent advances in SABRE include the development of automated shuttling systems to address previous inconsistencies. However, the operational complexity of such systems and the challenges of integration with existing workflows hinder their widespread adoption.
This work presents a fully automated lab workstation based on a benchtop NMR spectrometer, specifically designed to facilitate SABRE of different nuclei across different polarization fields. We demonstrated the capability of this system through a series of routine SABRE experimental protocols, including consecutive SABRE hyperpolarization with high reproducibility (average standard deviation of 1.03%), optimization polarization of 13C nuclei respect to the polarization transfer field, and measurement of polarization buildup rate or decay time across a wide range of magnetic fields. Furthermore, we have iteratively optimized the durations for pulsed SABRE-SHEATH 13C pyruvate.The constructed SABRE workstation offers full automation, high reproducibility, and functional diversification, making it a practical tool for conducting routine SABRE hyperpolarization experiments. It provides a robust platform for high-throughput and reliable SABRE and X-SABRE hyperpolarization studies.
Response of Alternaria and Fusarium species to low precipitation in a drought-tolerant plant in Morocco
Authors: Legeay Jean , Basiru Sulaimon , Ziami Abdelhadi , Errafii Khaoula , Hijri Mohamed 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The plant mycobiome plays a crucial role in the host life cycle, influencing both healthy and diseased states, and is essential for plant tolerance to drought. In this study, we used ITS metabarcoding to investigate the fungal community of the drought-resistant plant Malva sylvestris L. in Morocco along a gradient of precipitation, encompassing subhumid and semi-arid environments. We sampled three compartments: rhizosphere, bulk soil, and root endosphere. Our findings revealed a significant difference in beta-diversity between bulk soil and rhizosphere in subhumid environments (p = 0.013), suggesting that the plant does not select its rhizosphere mycobiome in semi-arid environments (p = 0.538). Additionally, ASVs belonging to the genus Alternaria represented up to 30% of reads in the plant’s roots and correlated with drought (p = 0.006), indicating a potential role for this fungal genus in mitigating drought, possibly as part of the dark septate endophyte group. Root staining and microscopic observation revealed extensive colonization by fungal hyphae and microsclerotia-like structures. Furthermore, ASVs identified as Fusarium equiseti were also correlated with low precipitation (p = 0.028) and recognized as a hub taxon in the roots. However, it remains uncertain whether this species is pathogenic or beneficial to the plant. These insights contribute to our understanding of the plant mycobiome's role in drought tolerance and highlight the importance of specific fungal taxa in supporting plant health under varying environmental conditions. Future research should focus on characterizing these taxa's functional roles and their interactions with the host plant to further elucidate their contributions to drought resistance.