bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Green Synthesis of Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticles from Nyctanthes arbor-tristis: Unveiling Larvicidal Potential, Protein Binding Affinity and Photocatalytic Activities
Authors: Duraisamy Kavitha , Venkatesan Srinivasan , Sivaji Ilakkia , Kosuru Rekha Yamini , Palaniyappan Prithika , Sureshkumar Muthusamy , Dhakshinamurthy Divya 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

An ecofriendly method was used to synthesize the novel zinc ferrite nanoparticles (ZnFe2O4 NPs) utilizing leaf extract of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis by hydrothermal method. The synthesized ZnFe2O4 NPs were characterized by different pivotal techniques. X-ray diffraction confirms the arrangement of the fcc crystal structure of nanoparticles and some organic substance that was encapsulated on the zinc ferrite. According to SEM analysis, the resulting nanoparticles are agglomerated and spherical in shape. The ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles are in their pure form, and all of their elemental compositions are shown by the EDAX spectrum. FTIR results reveal that the produced nanoparticles contained distinctive functional groups. Fluorescence spectroscopic technique was used to examine the binding affinities between bovine serum albumin (BSA) and ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles in terms of protein binding, stability, and conformation. The interaction between BSA and ZnFe2O4 NPs was examined using steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence measurements, and it was evident that there was static quenching at play. The ability of ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles to kill larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus (C. quinquefasciatus) was evaluated. The synthesized NPs demonstrated a noteworthy toxic effect against 4th instar larvae of C. quinquefasciatus with LC50 values of 43.529 µg/mL and LC90 values of 276.867 µg/mL respectively. This study explains the toxicity of green synthesized ZnFe2O4 NPs upon the mosquito larvae proving it to be a good and effective larvicide. Furthermore, the ZnFe2O4 NPs were utilized for dye degradation of methylene blue effectively under visible light treatment and achieved 99.5% degradation.
Factor Associated with Sexual Behaviours among Adolescents in a Rural Tanzania: Evidence from the African Research, Implementation Science, and Education (ARISE) Network
Authors: Eliufoo Elihuruma , Bago Mussa , Tian Yusheng , Josephat Jacktan , Mtoro Mtoro J. , Nyundo Azan , Li Yamin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Rural adolescents are transitioning to adulthood at an earlier age than previous generations. Consequently, there has been an increase in unsafe sexual practice behaviour. We assessed sexual behaviours and their associated factors among adolescents using African Research, Implementation Science, and Education (ARISE) Network data.
Subject and Methods:
We utilise data from the ARISE Network’s Adolescent Health Study, a cross-sectional study in six countries in sub-Saharan Africa involving rural adolescents aged 10–19 years. Participant information, health and sexual behaviours were collected through an interview-administered questionnaire. Both univariate and multivariate Poisson regression analyses were used to assess the factors associated with ever having sex.
Results
The proportion of adolescents who had sexual intercourse was 21.1% (95% CI: 18.9–23.5). Of those, 45.6% reported having more than one sexual partner. Being female was inversely associated with ever having sexual intercourse (APR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.29–0.47). Age was significantly associated with ever having sexual intercourse (APR: 1.17; 95% CI:1.12–1.23). Living with a colleague (APR: 2.92; 95% CI: 1.96–436), adolescents who have been employed within the past year (APR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.09–1.65), being exposed to pornography (APR: 2.07; 95% CI: 1.64–2.60) and receiving a sex joke, (APR: 1.84; 95% CI: 1.51–2.24) were significantly associated with ever having sexual intercourse among adolescents.
Conclusion
The findings highlight factors impacting sexual behaviour among adolescents. Promoting adolescents’ sexual health and well-being requires community-based interventions, family involvement, and comprehensive sexual education programs. Efforts must be made to raise public understanding of good sexual practice behaviour.
A Novel Clinical-Grade Cryopreservation Solution for Adipose Tissue Based on Metformin
Authors: Deng Yaping , Liu Xin , Jian Xichao , Zhang Yan , Hou Yinchi , Hou Suyun , Qi Fang , Xiao Shune , Deng Chengliang 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Autologous fat grafting often needs multiple sessions due to low volume retention. Young adipose tissue demonstrates a more pronounced therapeutic effect; thus, the cryopreservation of adipose tissue of young origin is particularly crucial. This study investigated the protective effect of a new cryopreservation solution combining trehalose, glycerol, and metformin on adipose tissue.
Methods
This study initially examined the effect of various concentrations of metformin (0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 mM) on oxidative damage in adipose tissue to identify the optimal concentration. Subsequently, 1.5 mL of fresh human adipose tissue was subjected to freezing using trehalose + glycerol (TG group), trehalose + glycerol + metformin (TGM group), and the common cryoprotectant dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) + fetal bovine serum (FBS) (DF group). Samples were cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen for 2 weeks. After thawing, 1 mL of adipose tissue from each group was transplanted subcutaneously into the backs of nude mice. The cryoprotective effects on adipose tissue viability were evaluated during transplantation one month after transplantation.
Results
The 2 mM concentration of metformin exhibited the lowest reactive oxygen species (ROS) level (29.20 ± 1.73) compared to other concentrations (P < 0.05). Cell proliferation and migration assays also supported the superior performance of the 2 mM concentration. Apoptotic analyses of SVF cells also showed the lowest levels in the 2 mM group. Compared to other cryopreservation groups, the adipose tissue in the TGM group closely resembled fresh adipose tissue in terms of gross structure and histological characteristics, with the lowest apoptosis rate of SVF cells. In vivo analysis revealed the highest tissue retention rate in the TGM group, with histological examination indicating robust structural integrity.
Conclusion
The TGM cryopreservation solution, containing metformin, greatly preserves adipose tissue, reduces apoptosis, and improves tissue retention rates. This solution was non-toxic and safe, making it well-suited for tissue cryopreservation in clinical settings.
Influence of Mesenchymal and Biophysical Components on Distal Lung Organoid Differentiation
Authors: Goltsis Olivia , Bilodeau Claudia , Wang Jinxia , Luo Daochun , Asgari Meisam , Bozec Laurent , Petterson Ante , Leibel Sandra , Post Martin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Chronic lung disease of prematurity, called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), lacks effective therapies, stressing the need for preclinical testing systems that reflect human pathology for identifying causal pathways and testing novel compounds. Alveolar organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) are promising test platforms for studying distal airway diseases like BPD, but current protocols do not accurately replicate the distal niche environment of the native lung. Herein, we investigated the contributions of cellular constituents of the alveolus and fetal respiratory movements on hPSC-derived alveolar organoid formation.
Methods
Human PSCs were differentiated in 2D culture into lung progenitor cells (LPC) which were then further differentiated into alveolar organoids before and after removal of co-developing mesodermal cells. LPCs were also differentiated in Transwell® co-cultures with and without human fetal lung fibroblast. Forming organoids were subjected to phasic mechanical strain using a Flexcell® system. Differentiation within organoids and Transwell® cultures was assessed by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and qPCR for lung epithelial and alveolar markers of differentiation including GATA Binding Protein 6 (GATA 6), E-Cadherin (CDH1), NK2 Homeobox 1 (NKX2-1), HT2-280, Surfactant Proteins B (SFTPB) and C (SFTPC).
Results
We observed that co-developing mesenchymal progenitors promote alveolar epithelial type 2 cell (AEC2) differentiation within hPSC-derived lung organoids. This mesenchymal effect on AEC2 differentiation was corroborated by co-culturing hPSC-NKX2-1+ lung progenitors with human embryonic lung fibroblasts. The stimulatory effect did not require direct contact between fibroblasts and NKX2-1+ lung progenitors. Additionally, we demonstrate that episodic mechanical deformation of hPSC-derived lung organoids, mimicking in situ fetal respiratory movements, increased AEC2 differentiation without affecting proximal epithelial differentiation.
Conclusion
Our data suggest that biophysical and mesenchymal components promote AEC2 differentiation within hPSC-derived distal organoids in vitro.
Evaluation of the association between the conjoined tendon-preserving posterior approach in total hip arthroplasty and early postoperative functional recovery: a retrospective cross-sectional study.
Authors: Sato Ryuichi , Sugiyama Hajime , Matsushita Yohei , Yokoyama Tetsuya , Okawa Eriko , Tonotsuka Hisahiro , Hayama Tetsuo , Saito Mitsuru 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to assess the impact of the conjoined tendon-preserving posterior (CPP) approach in total hip arthroplasty (THA) in reducing the number of days to independent walking and early postoperative clinical outcomes compared with conventional posterolateral (PL) and piriformis muscle-sparing PL (P-PL) approaches.
Methods: In total, 91 patients who underwent robotic arm-assisted THA using the PL, P-PL, or CPP approaches were included in this study. Clinical outcomes, including the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) hip score, were evaluated preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Furthermore, the number of days to independent walking with two canes after surgery (T1) and the number of days to independent walking with a single cane after surgery (T2) were compared among the three approaches.
Results: Following the PL approach, T1 and T2 were 11.1 and 24.6 days, respectively. Following the P-PL approach, T1 and T2 were 9.1 and 24.5 days, respectively. Following the CPP approach, T1 and T2 were 5.3 and 15.6 days, respectively. In each period of walking independence, CPP was significantly shorter than the others (T1, P <0.001 and T2, P <0.001). Clinical outcomes, including walking ability and activities of daily living, consistently favored the CPP approach for up to 6 months postoperatively. Intraoperative complications were observed in the PL and P-PL approaches. The CPP approach showed better results for postoperative pain at 3 months postoperatively.
Conclusions: The CPP approach in THA significantly reduced the number of days to independent walking and exhibited superior early postoperative clinical outcomes compared to PL and P-PL approaches.
Melatonin rhythm disorder is more pronounced in major depressive disorder with Non-Suicidal Self-injury
Authors: Hu Xiaojuan , Zhang Aiguo , Wang Chao , Zhang Xulai 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background Melatonin(MT) rhythm disorders may be associated with depression and non-suicidal self-injury（NSSI）.We conducted a controlled study to investigate whether patients with major depressive disorder（MDD）comorbid NSSI have more pronounced MT disorders, and whether MT levels are associated with NSSI perception and cessation.
Methods A total of 100 samples were included in the study, including 30 healthy individuals as a normal control group and 70 patients with MDD.In the subgroup of MDD,there were 35 patients with NSSI(NSSI group) and 35 patients without NSSI (non-NSSI group).We used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to measure the salivary MT levels (0AM, 8AM, 11AM, 1PM, 4PM, 10PM) of all participants at 6 time points. And use the Ottawa-Self- Injury Inventory (OSI) to quantitatively evaluate the self injury perception and motivation to stop self injury in patients in the NSSI group.
Results The salivary MT levels in the NSSI group at 6 time points were significantly lower than those in the non- NSSI group and control group (P<0.05), and the circadian rhythm of MT in NSSI group disappeared.We found significant
correlations between MT levels and several dimensions of NSSI,specifically: 1PM MT level and intrusive/invasive urge(r=0.487，P<0.05), 8AM MT levels and desire to stop NSSI(r=-0.427，P<0.05),11AM MT levels and desire to stop NSSI(r=-0.348，P<0.05).
Conclusions The decrease in MT levels and disruption of circadian rhythms may increase the risk of NSSI in patients with MDD, but its mechanism needs further exploration.
Up-regulated FOXO3/IL-10 Axis Inhibits Mitochondria-Associated Ferroptosis in Sepsis-Induced Diaphragm Dysfunction
Authors: Liu Hua , Chai Dongdong , Lyu Xiang , Zhao Bin , Zhi Nan , Yang Yaqiong , Zhou Xuhui , Dong Hui , Liao Yudi , Zhang Weiwen , Jin Yi , Jiang Hong , Weng Xiaojian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Sepsis can lead to diaphragm dysfunction and atrophy known as sepsis-induced diaphragm dysfunction (SIDD), a major cause of mortality in the ICU. Our present study aimed to investigate whether ferroptosis is implicated in the pathogenesis of SIDD and the underlying molecular mechanism. The results demonstrated that in both in vivo and in vitro septic models, indicators such as the oxygen consumption rate (OCR), extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and complex I-V levels, alongside Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) imaging, revealed mitochondria-associated changes. These alterations were mitigated by the ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrostatin (Fer-1), confirming that ferroptosis—a mitochondria-linked form of programmed cell death, plays a crucial role in SIDD. Through RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (ATAC-seq), and Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay, we found that the FOXO3/IL-10 axis was suppressed in septic mice yet can be reactivated through administration of Fer-1. Furthermore, overexpression of FOXO3 shielded the diaphragm against sepsis-induced ferroptosis by boosting IL-10 production and enhancing the expression of Nrf2-mediated antioxidative genes such as GPX4. This reduced lipid peroxidation and concurrently ameliorated mitochondrial damage. Therefore, activating FOXO3 or administering IL-10 could offer a promising approach for treating SIDD.
Exploring the social context of smoking behaviours: insights from stop-smoking advisors in deprived communities in Northwest of England UK.
Authors: Mabhala Mzwandile , ESEALUKA Winifred Adaobi , YOHANNES Asmait , NWUFO Amanda Nkolika , PAULUS Lahja , KEELING June , Tefera Meron 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: The successive UK governments have introduced measures to enhance access to stop-smoking services. However, these efforts have primarily focused on restricting access and promoting individual behaviour changes, overlooking the social conditions that contribute to smoking behaviours. While promoting individual behaviour changes can be beneficial, in the face of growing health inequalities, lasting change requires collective action and structural reforms. This research examines the limitations of individual-focused stop-smoking interventions in deprived communities. It provides a unique perspective by analysing practitioners' experiences promoting stop-smoking initiatives in a disadvantaged neighbourhood in northwest England. It underscores the significance of adopting comprehensive strategies for smoking cessation, drawing on practitioners' insights to address the broader determinants of smoking behaviour. These findings are crucial for understanding the complexities of smoking cessation in deprived communities.
Methods: The research used interpretative phenomenology to comprehensively analyse six lived experiences of stop-smoking advisors in Northwest England.
Results: The analysis identified four overarching themes fundamental for delivering stop-smoking services in these communities:
1. Developing a skilled, confident, and culturally competent stop-smoking advice team
2. Understanding other complex social, mental, and physical health issues.
3. Bringing the stop-smoking programme to those who need it the most.
4. Adapting the service to meet the user's needs.
Conclusions: This article presented evidence indicating that behaviour-oriented interventions have resulted in a disproportionate decrease in smoking rates, with a more rapid decline in the least deprived areas compared to the deprived ones. The inverse care law theory provides a clear framework for understanding these differences. It emphasises the need for both behavioural and structural interventions to address smoking habits in deprived neighbourhoods, highlighting the impact of socioeconomic factors and the limitations of individual behaviour-focused stop-smoking interventions. The study calls for a comprehensive approach that combines behavioural interventions with measures to address the underlying causes of smoking in deprived communities.
Climate change-induced extreme weather events alter the frequency of firearm incidents and child maltreatment cases in Wayne County, Michigan
Authors: Sokol Rebeccah , Gerlein-Safdi Cynthia , Esposti Michelle Degli , Wallace Mildred 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Climate change is creating more frequent extreme weather events. Yet the impacts of such events on human behavior, specifically violence, are not well understood. We used Wayne County, Michigan, as a case study to explore extreme weather’s influence on violence. We gathered county data on extreme weather events, firearm violence, and child maltreatment at the daily level from 2018-2023. Over this period, the week following an extreme weather event had less firearm violence (RR: 0.74[0.57-0.98]); analyses found no associations with child maltreatment (RR: 1.02[0.89-1.17]). Yet, between March 2020-2021—a year of strained resources—analyses found no protective association against firearm violence (RR: 1.02[0.74, 1.41]), and the week following an extreme weather event had more child maltreatment (RR: 1.18[0.97-1.44]). The influence of extreme weather on constraining people’s activities towards their homes may explain the decreased risk for firearm violence following an extreme weather event. Associations between extreme weather and child maltreatment, however, are likely products of compounded caregiver stress. Mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on child safety should therefore involve maintaining or quickly reestablishing services to support caregivers and children before, during, and after extreme weather events.
Neutrophil extracellular trapping effects of perioperative lidocaine administration on postoperative levels of serum inflammatory cytokines in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: A prospective randomized trial
Authors: Shin Dongho , Kim Jiheon , Lee Subin , Chae Min Suk 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background and Objective:
This randomized controlled trial investigated the influence of perioperative lidocaine administration on the postoperative inflammatory response in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, with the results having potential implications for postoperative recovery and cancer recurrence via neutrophil extracellular trapping (NETosis).
Methods
In total, 58 patients with localized prostate cancer were randomly assigned to receive an intravenous infusion of 2% lidocaine or a saline placebo intraoperatively. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α, interferon(IFN)-γ, neutrophil elastase (NE), citrullinated histone3 (CitH3), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were determined preoperatively and at 24 h postoperatively. Biochemical recurrence (BCR) was assessed over a follow-up period of 2 years.
Results
The lidocaine group showed a significantly greater reduction in IL-10 level and a smaller increase in the NE level compared to the placebo group, suggesting a modulatory effect of lidocaine on certain anti-inflammatory and neuroendocrine pathways. Changes in other cytokines and markers were not significantly different between the groups. No significant difference in the BCR rate was observed between the two groups.
Conclusion
Perioperative lidocaine administration selectively modulates certain inflammatory and neuroendocrine responses after prostate cancer surgery, potentially influencing recovery outcomes. These findings highlight the need for further investigations of the role of lidocaine in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols, particularly in oncologic surgeries. However, large-scale studies with diverse populations are needed to verify our findings and understand the influence of lidocaine administration on long-term cancer outcomes.
Prospective prediction of childhood body mass index trajectories using multi-task Gaussian processes
Authors: Wang Dennis , Leroy Arthur , Gupta Varsha , Tint Mya Thway , Ooi Delicia Shu Qin , Yap Fabian K.P. , Lek Ngee , Godfrey Keith , Chong Yap Seng , Lee Yung Seng , Eriksson Johan , Alvarez Mauricio , Michael Navin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background Body mass index (BMI) trajectories of children have been used to assess their growth with respect to their peers, as well as to anticipate future obesity and disease risk. While retrospective modelling of childhood BMI trajectories has been an active area of research, prospective prediction of continuous BMI trajectories from historical growth data has not been well investigated.Materials and Methods Using longitudinal BMI measurements between birth and age 10y from a longitudinal mother-offspring cohort, we leveraged a multi-task Gaussian processes-based method called MagmaClust to develop and evaluate a unified framework for modeling, clustering and prospective prediction of BMI trajectories. We compared the sensitivity to missing values and trajectory prediction performance of the proposed method with cubic B-spline and multilevel Jenss-Bayley models. Predicted trajectories were also utilized to prospectively estimate overweight/obesity risk at age 10y.Results MagmaClust identified 5 distinct patterns of BMI trajectories between 0 to 10y. The method outperformed both cubic B-spline and multilevel Jenss-Bayley models in the accuracy of retrospective BMI trajectories while being more robust to missing data (up to 90%). It was also better at prospectively forecasting BMI trajectories of children for periods ranging from 2 to 8 years into the future, using historic BMI data. Given BMI data between birth and age 2 years, prediction of overweight/obesity status at age 10 years, as computed from MagmaClust’s predictions exhibited high specificity (0.94) and accuracy (0.86). The accuracy and sensitivity of predictions increased as BMI data from additional timepoints were utilized for prediction.Conclusion MagmaClust provides a unified, probabilistic, non-parametric framework to model, cluster and prospectively predict childhood BMI trajectories and overweight/obesity risk. The proposed method offers a convenient tool for clinicians to monitor BMI growth in children, allowing them to prospectively identify children with high predicted overweight/obesity risk and implement timely interventions.