bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of the volume fraction on the microstructural and mechanical properties of TiCp/high-manganese steel composites
Authors: Zhao Shengnian , Lu De-Hong , Wang Fengbin , Du Jianming , Jiang Yehua 
Published: August 2024

To improve the adaptability to complex shaped products, TiC particulates (TiCp) reinforced high-manganese steel matrix (TiCp/HMS) composites were prepared by the squeeze casting infiltration method, and the microstructure and the mechanical properties of the composites were investigated, with different TiCp volume fractions (35%, 50%, 65%). Water glass was applied as binder in the TiCp preforms, in which iron powder was added to adjust the TiCp fractions, and Si powder to activate the bonding of TiCp/steel interface. The results showed that with the increase of the volume fraction, the hardness of the composites increases gradually, with the highest reaching 60.7 HRC at 65 % TiCp, which is 2.7 times that of the matrix. However, the bending strength decreases gradually, with the maximum 439.0 MPa obtained at 35% TiCp. The impact toughness of the composites changes slightly. Due to the use of water glass, brittle glass phase is formed at the TiCp/steel interface, which reduces the mechanical properties of the composites. The addition of Si powder can improve the comprehensive mechanical properties of the composites.
Blood pressure variability and prognostic significance in traumatic brain injury: analysis of the eICU-CRD database
Authors: Zhang Shao-Yang , Li Chang-Li , Yin Jian , Jiang Meng , Yang Xiao-Feng 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Preliminary evidence demonstrates that visit-to-visit systolic blood pressure (SBP) variability is a prognostic factor of TBI. However, literature regarding the impact of initial blood pressure management on the outcomes of TBI patients is limited. We aimed to further validate the clinical significance of BPV on the prognostic outcomes of patients with TBI.

Methods
We performed the analysis by using individual patient-level data acquired from the eICU-CRD, which collected 200,859 ICU admissions of 139,367 patients in 2014 and 2015 from 208 US hospitals. Adult patients with traumatic intraparenchymal hemorrhage or contusion were included. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality and the secondary outcome was discharge-home rate. Blood pressure variability (BPV) was calculated according to standard criteria: at least six measurements were taken in the first 24 h (hyperacute group) and 36 over days 2–7 (acute group). We estimated the associations between BPV and outcomes with logistic and proportional odds regression models. The key parameter for BPV was standard deviation (SD) of SBP, categorized into quintiles. We also calculated the average real variability (ARV), as well as maximum, minimum, and mean SBP for comparison in our analysis.

Results
We studied 1486 patients in the hyperacute group and 857 in the acute group. SD of SBP had a significant association with the in-hospital mortality for both the hyperacute group (highest quintile adjusted OR 2.28 95% CI 1.18–4.42; ptrend<0.001) and the acute group (highest quintile adjusted OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.08–4.36; ptrend<0.001). The strongest predictors of primary outcome were SD of SBP in the hyperacute phase and minimum SBP in the acute phase. Associations were similar for the discharge-home rate (for the hyperacute group, highest quintile adjusted OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.37–0.89; ptrend<0.001; for the acute group OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.32–0.95; ptrend<0.001).

Conclusion
Systolic BPV seems to predict a poor outcome in patients with TBI. The benefits of early treatment to maintain appropriate SBP level might be enhanced by smooth and sustained control.
Willingness to participate in a personalized health cohort – insights from the swiss health study pilot phase
Authors: Bühler Nolwenn , Frahsa Annika , Jaramillo Nathalia González , Bourqui Réjane Morand , Nusslé Semira Gonseth , Zuppinger Claire , Bochud Murielle , von Goetz Natalie 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
This paper explores the feasibility of establishing a large-scale population-based cohort and biobank in Switzerland by assessing potential participants’ needs, expectations, and concerns about such an infrastructure providing information on health, lifestyle, and exposure trajectories, the development of disease, and risk factors over time.

Methods
We utilized a scenario-based questionnaire in the Swiss Health Study pilot phase (2020–2021), involving 1349 adults aged 20–69 from the cantons Vaud and Bern. We conducted descriptive statistics supported by R and qualitative content analysis of n = 374 open responses related to attitudes towards research.

Results
We highlight the benefits and challenges of the scenario-based approach, discuss the sample represented in the pilot phase, and present implications for building a full cohort. We also report on participants’ attitudes towards and previous experience with health research. We analyze references regarding informed consent and feedback, attitudes towards the Swiss Health Study, and recommendations on improving its scope, design, and instruments. Results indicate a high interest (90%) in participating in a national health study, with 85% of a random population sample willing to join a long-term cohort. Only 43% were familiar with biobanks, and 44% preferred general consent. Trust was high for Swiss-based public research but lower for researchers from other countries or private sector. Over 95% expressed willingness to complete online questionnaires, undergo physical examination, and donate biosamples. Almost all participants wanted to know the outcomes of the medical tests (99.5%) and the exposure to environmental stressors (95%) from their study center visit. Preferred tools for monitoring sleep, physical activity, and diet were known smartphone apps with automatic data management.

Conclusion
Overall, the study reveals a positive attitude towards personalized health research, with a strong willingness to share data and samples. Key insights focus the meaning of informed consent for participation, the relevance of sampling and representativeness, as well as the significance and challenges of personalized feedback, especially regarding environmental health concerns. Findings emphasize participants’ supportive yet reflexive stances, underscoring the importance of aligning research values with individual values in personalized health research. These insights contribute valuable considerations for refining the scope, design, and instruments of future cohort studies.
Effects of a skin type diversity seminar on undergraduate medical students’ self-assessed competence in managing skin diseases in patients with skin of color
Authors: Abeck Finn , Heinen Ines , Sommer Rachel , Blome Christine , Härter Martin , Augustin Matthias , Schneider Stefan W. , Hansen-Abeck Inga , Booken Nina 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Skin diseases in patients with skin of colour (Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI) are underrepresented in dermatology training, which may lead to lower quality of care for these patients. To address this underrepresentation in medical education, a newly developed seminar on skin type diversity using an interactive teaching method was implemented in an undergraduate medical curriculum. This study examined the effects of a seminar on the self-assessed competence of medical students in managing skin conditions in patients with skin of colour.

Methods
A questionnaire survey was conducted among fourth-year undergraduate medical students at the University of Hamburg (Germany) between October 2023 and February 2024. Students’ self-assessed competence was compared before and after the obligatory seminar (pre- and post-design).

Results
In total, 158 students participated in the survey. After the seminar, knowledge of the presentation of skin diseases in patients with skin of colour and the associated psychological burden, differences in the incidence of skin diseases in different skin types, and the ability to diagnose skin diseases in darker skin types increased. Most participants stated that they wanted to attend more courses on this topic.

Discussion
Appropriate courses for medical students can improve their competence in managing different skin diseases in patients with skin of colour. In the future, more attention should be paid to teaching the diversity of skin types in dermatology education.
Genetic evidence for predisposition to acute leukemias due to a missense mutation (p.Ser518Arg) in ZAP70 kinase: a case-control study
Authors: Khashei Varnamkhasti Khalil , Khashei Varnamkhasti Samire , Shahrouzian Atefeh , Rahimzadeh Masoomeh , Naeimi Leila , Naeimi Behrouz , Naeimi Sirous 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
The apparent lack of additional missense mutations data on mixed-phenotype leukemia is noteworthy. Single amino acid substitution by these non-synonymous single nucleotide variations can be related to many pathological conditions and may influence susceptibility to disease. This case-control study aimed to unravel whether the ZAP70 missense variant (rs104893674 (C > A)) underpinning mixed-phenotype leukemia.

Methods
The rs104893674 was genotyped in clients who were mixed-phenotype acute leukemia-, acute lymphoblastic leukemia- and acute myeloid leukemia-positive and matched healthy controls, which have been referred to all major urban hospitals from multiple provinces of country- wide, IRAN, from February 11’ 2019 to June 10’ 2023, by amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction method. Direct sequencing for rs104893674 of the ZAP70 gene was performed in a 3130 Genetic Analyzer.

Results
We found that the AC genotype of individuals with A allele at this polymorphic site (heterozygous variant-type) contribute to the genetic susceptibility to acute leukemia of both forms, acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia as well as with a mixed phenotype. In other words, the ZAP70 missense variant (rs104893674 (C > A)) increases susceptibility of distinct cell populations of different (myeloid and lymphoid) lineages to exhibiting cancer phenotype. The results were all consistent with genotype data obtained using a direct DNA sequencing technique.

Conclusion
Of special interest are pathogenic missense mutations, since they generate variants that cause specific molecular phenotypes through protein destabilization. Overall, we discovered that the rs104893674 (C > A) variant chance in causing mixed-phenotype leukemia is relatively high.
The cGAS-STING pathway in COPD: targeting its role and therapeutic potential
Authors: Liao Kexin , Wang Fengshuo , Xia Chenhao , Xu Ze , Zhong Sen , Bi Wenqi , Ruan Jingjing 
Published: August 2024

AbstractChronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) is a gradually worsening and fatal heterogeneous lung disease characterized by airflow limitation and increasingly decline in lung function. Currently, it is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The consistent feature of COPD is airway inflammation. Several inflammatory factors are known to be involved in COPD pathogenesis; however, anti-inflammatory therapy is not the first-line treatment for COPD. Although bronchodilators, corticosteroids and roflumilast could improve airflow and control symptoms, they could not reverse the disease. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) signaling pathway plays an important novel role in the immune system and has been confirmed to be a key mediator of inflammation during infection, cellular stress, and tissue damage. Recent studies have emphasized that abnormal activation of cGAS-STING contributes to COPD, providing a direction for new treatments that we urgently need to develop. Here, we focused on the cGAS-STING pathway, providing insight into its molecular mechanism and summarizing the current knowledge on the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in COPD. Moreover, we explored antagonists of cGAS and STING to identify potential therapeutic strategies for COPD that target the cGAS-STING pathway.
Solving the puzzle of quality of life in cancer: integrating causal inference and machine learning for data-driven insights
Authors: Bozcuk Hakan Şat , Alemdar Mustafa Serkan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Understanding the determinants of global quality of life in cancer patients is crucial for improving their overall well-being. While correlations between various factors and quality of life have been established, the causal relationships remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to identify the causal factors influencing global quality of life in cancer patients and compare them with known correlative factors.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective analysis of European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire data, alongside demographic and disease-related features, collected from new cancer patients during their initial visit to an oncology outpatient clinic. Correlations with global quality of life were identified using univariate and multivariate regression analyses. Causal inference analysis was performed using two approaches. First, we employed the Dowhy Python library for causal analysis, incorporating prior information and manual characterization of an acyclic graph. Second, we utilized the Linear Non-Gaussian Acyclic Model (LiNGAM) machine learning algorithm from the Lingam Python library, which automatically generated an acyclic graph without prior information. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results
Multivariate analysis of 469 new admissions revealed that disease stage, role functioning, emotional functioning, social functioning, fatigue, pain and diarrhea were linked with global quality of life. The most influential direct causal factors were emotional functioning, social functioning, and physical functioning, while the most influential indirect factors were physical functioning, emotional functioning, and fatigue. Additionally, the most prominent total causal factors were identified as type of cancer (diagnosis), cancer stage, and sex, with total causal effect ratios of -9.47, -4.67, and − 1.48, respectively. The LiNGAM algorithm identified type of cancer (diagnosis), nausea and vomiting and social functioning as significant, with total causal effect ratios of -9.47, -0.42, and 0.42, respectively.

Conclusions
This study identified that causal factors for global quality of life in new cancer patients are distinct from correlative factors. Understanding these causal relationships could provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of quality of life in cancer patients and guide targeted interventions to improve their well-being.
Sorption of chromium from aqueous solutions using Fucus vesiculosus algae biosorbent
Authors: Asaad Amany A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe presence of heavy metals in wastewater is an environmental concern and the current treatment procedures are very expensive so it is necessary to find effective and inexpensive biosorbents. In this study, Fucus vesiculosus was used as a biosorbent for the biosorption of Cr(III) ions from the aqueous solutions. Biosorption parameters, such as pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, and initial concentrations of Cr(III) had the most impact on the sorption process. The required pH value for sorption was 5, the biosorbent dose was 4.0 g/L, the contact time was seen to occur after 90 min, and the Cr(III) removal decreased from 98.9 to 92%. The maximum biosorption capacity of chromium was 14.12 mg/g. FTIR analysis of Fucus vesiculosus biomass before the sorption process contains carboxyl, amino, hydroxyl, alkyne, and carbonyl groups, and according to the analysis after the sorption process, it was found that Cr(III) metal ions were incorporated within the sorbent during the interaction with (=C–H) active functional groups. The biosorption data were found to be perfectly suited by Langmuir equilibrium isotherm model. According to the results of this study, Fucus vesiculosus is an effective biosorbent for the removal of Cr(III) from aqueous solutions.
RECIST 1.1 assessments variability: a systematic pictorial review of blinded double reads
Authors: Iannessi Antoine , Beaumont Hubert , Ojango Christine , Bertrand Anne-Sophie , Liu Yan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Reader variability is intrinsic to radiologic oncology assessments, necessitating measures to enhance consistency and accuracy. RECIST 1.1 criteria play a crucial role in mitigating this variability by standardizing evaluations, aiming to establish an accepted “truth” confirmed by histology or patient survival. Clinical trials utilize Blind Independent Centralized Review (BICR) techniques to manage variability, employing double reads and adjudicators to address inter-observer discordance effectively.
It is essential to dissect the root causes of variability in response assessments, with a specific focus on the factors influencing RECIST evaluations. We propose proactive measures for radiologists to address variability sources such as radiologist expertise, image quality, and accessibility of contextual information, which significantly impact interpretation and assessment precision. Adherence to standardization and RECIST guidelines is pivotal in diminishing variability and ensuring uniform results across studies.
Variability factors, including lesion selection, new lesion appearance, and confirmation bias, can have profound implications on assessment accuracy and interpretation, underscoring the importance of identifying and addressing these factors. Delving into the causes of variability aids in enhancing the accuracy and consistency of response assessments in oncology, underscoring the role of standardized evaluation protocols and mitigating risk factors that contribute to variability. Access to contextual information is crucial.

Critical relevance statement
By understanding the causes of diagnosis variability, we can enhance the accuracy and consistency of response assessments in oncology, ultimately improving patient care and clinical outcomes.

Key Points

Baseline lesion selection and detection of new lesions play a major role in the occurrence of discordance.

Image interpretation is influenced by contextual information, the lack of which can lead to diagnostic uncertainty.

Radiologists must be trained in RECIST criteria to reduce errors and variability.

Graphical Abstract
DNA stable isotope probing reveals the impact of trophic interactions on bioaugmentation of soils with different pollution histories
Authors: Nieto Esteban E. , Jurburg Stephanie D. , Steinbach Nicole , Festa Sabrina , Morelli Irma S. , Coppotelli Bibiana M. , Chatzinotas Antonis 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Bioaugmentation is considered a sustainable and cost-effective methodology to recover contaminated environments, but its outcome is highly variable. Predation is a key top-down control mechanism affecting inoculum establishment, however, its effects on this process have received little attention. This study focused on the impact of trophic interactions on bioaugmentation success in two soils with different pollution exposure histories. We inoculated a 13C-labelled pollutant-degrading consortium in these soils and tracked the fate of the labelled biomass through stable isotope probing (SIP) of DNA. We identified active bacterial and eukaryotic inoculum-biomass consumers through amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA genes coupled to a novel enrichment factor calculation.

Results
Inoculation effectively increased PAH removal in the short-term, but not in the long-term polluted soil. A decrease in the relative abundance of the inoculated genera was observed already on day 15 in the long-term polluted soil, while growth of these genera was observed in the short-term polluted soil, indicating establishment of the inoculum. In both soils, eukaryotic genera dominated as early incorporators of 13C-labelled biomass, while bacteria incorporated the labelled biomass at the end of the incubation period, probably through cross-feeding. We also found different successional patterns between the two soils. In the short-term polluted soil, Cercozoa and Fungi genera predominated as early incorporators, whereas Ciliophora, Ochrophyta and Amoebozoa were the predominant genera in the long-term polluted soil.

Conclusion
Our results showed differences in the inoculum establishment and predator community responses, affecting bioaugmentation efficiency. This highlights the need to further study predation effects on inoculum survival to increase the applicability of inoculation-based technologies.
Public perceptions of international genetic information sharing for biomedical research in China: a case study of the social media debate on the article “A Pangenome Reference of 36 Chinese Populations” published in Nature
Authors: Wang Zhangyu , Wang Meng , Du Li 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
The international disclosure of Chinese human genetic data continues to be a contentious issue in China, generating public debates in both traditional and social media channels. Concerns have intensified after Chinese scientists’ research on pangenome data was published in the prestigious journal Nature.

Methods
This study scrutinized microblogs posted on Weibo, a popular Chinese social media site, in the two months immediately following the publication (June 14, 2023–August 21, 2023). Content analysis was conducted to assess the nature of public responses, justifications for positive or negative attitudes, and the users’ overall knowledge of how Chinese human genetic information is regulated and managed in China.

Results
Weibo users displayed contrasting attitudes towards the article’s public disclose of pangenome research data, with 18% positive, 64% negative, and 18% neutral. Positive attitudes came primarily from verified government and media accounts, which praised the publication. In contrast, negative attitudes originated from individual users who were concerned about national security and health risks and often believed that the researchers have betrayed China. The benefits of data sharing highlighted in the commentaries included advancements in disease research and scientific progress. Approximately 16% of the microblogs indicated that Weibo users had misunderstood existing regulations and laws governing data sharing and stewardship.

Conclusions
Based on the predominantly negative public attitudes toward scientific data sharing established by our study, we recommend enhanced outreach by scientists and scientific institutions to increase the public understanding of developments in genetic research, international data sharing, and associated regulations. Additionally, governmental agencies can alleviate public fears and concerns by being more transparent about their security reviews of international collaborative research involving Chinese human genetic data and its cross-border transfer.