bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Liuzijue Qigong on respiratory function among patients with Parkinson’s disease:A randomized clinical trial
Authors: YIN Huimei , Cheng Oumei , Zhang Xu , Quan Fengying , Zhang Yujiao , ZUO Hongzhou , Zhou Jianrong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Respiratory dysfunction is a common nonmotor symptom in patients with Parkinson's disease that may be easily overlooked. Incorporating respiratory function rehabilitation into routine rehabilitation programs for these patients is important. However, previous studies have focused primarily on professional devices and training processes that require additional professional guidance, making wide implementation challenging.
Methods
In this assessor-masked, randomized clinical trial, eligible participants were randomized into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received Liu Zi Jue Qigong exercise for 12 weeks, while the control group underwent conventional rehabilitation exercises. Primary outcomes included measures of respiratory function, such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP). Secondary outcomes included motor symptoms, quality of life, depression, and anxiety.
Results
The results from a study involving 51 Parkinson's disease patients showed significant improvements in the FVC, FEV1, PEF, and MEP in the experimental group compared to those in the control group after the 12-week intervention. Additionally, there was a noticeable decrease in depression and anxiety scores in the experimental group, with statistically significant reductions compared to those in the control group.
Conclusions
Liuzijue Qigong exercise has the potential to enhance respiratory function and mental health in patients with Parkinson's disease in the early and middle stages. These findings could serve as a valuable reference for implementing home-based rehabilitation techniques for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2200056762(Registration Date: February 15, 2022).
Structural Basis for the Activation of Proteinase-Activated Receptors (PARs) by Endogenous Ligands
Authors: McGrath Aaron , Lyu Zongyang , Lyu Xiaoxuan , Xia Guliang , Carney Daniel , Alves Vinicius , Falk Matthew , Arora Nidhi , Zou Hua , Kang Yanyong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The proteinase-activated receptor (PAR) subfamily of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) include four members, PAR1-PAR4, that play critical roles in hemostasis, thrombosis, embryonic development, wound healing, inflammation, and cancer progression. The PARs share a unique activation mechanism driven by proteinase cleavage at a specific site within the extracellular amino-terminus, exposing a ‘tethered ligand’ that self-activates the receptor. Subsequent activation allows PAR family members to initiate complex intracellular signaling networks via traditional G protein-mediated pathways and beta-arrestin signaling and, in this way, the PARs link extracellular protease signaling molecules to cellular functions. Despite a primary reliance on biochemical studies for understanding tethered ligand recognition, direct structural visualization of these ligand-receptor complexes has been elusive. Here, we present structural snapshots of activated PAR1 and PAR2 bound to their endogenous tethered ligands, revealing, for the first time, shallow and constricted orthosteric binding pockets and highlighting critical residues involved in ligand recognition and receptor activation. Surprisingly, comparisons with antagonist-bound structures show minimal conformational changes in the TM6 helix, a typical signature of GPCR activation, with large movements of TM7 observed upon activation. These insights lead to the identification of a common mechanism for PAR1 and PAR2 activation and provide a structural template for designing novel antagonists targeting the orthosteric binding site, potentially opening new avenues for therapeutic interventions.
The localization of septo-cutaneous perforators of free fibular flaps determines the postoperative accuracy of maxillofacial reconstructions and should therefore be included in virtual surgical planning procedures
Authors: Khajehalichalehshtari Manuel , Khromov Tatjana , Panahi Babak , Schminke Boris , Schliephake Henning , Brockmeyer Phillipp 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To investigate whether deviations in the localization of the main septo-cutaneous perforator (SCP) in maxillofacial reconstruction with free fibula flaps (FFF) lead to inaccuracies in the reconstruction result with respect to virtual surgical planning (VSP) procedures.
Methods
The consecutive VSP planning data of a total of 24 patients who either underwent resection of a bone-destructive malignancy or underwent maxillofacial reconstruction with FFF due to another osteodestructive lesion were retrospectively analyzed together with the postoperative computed tomography (CT) control data set and the preoperative computed tomographic angiograms (CTA). The deviations of the VSP from the actual position of the main SCP were quantified morphometrically to evaluate the impact on the reconstruction accuracy.
Results
Significant differences in bone segment surfaces (p = 0.0006) and bone segment volumes (p = 0.0001) were observed between VSP and postoperative reconstruction results. A significant positive linear relationship was found between the distance of the SCP from the inferior margin of the lateral malleolus (p = 0.0362, R2 = 0.1844) and the deviation of the SCP from the center of the VSP (p = 0.0016, R2 = 0.3700), with increasing root mean square (RMS) values indicating a less accurate reconstruction result. The multimodal regression model showed that the deviation of the SCP from the center of the VSP significantly affected the accuracy of the reconstruction result (p = 0.005).
Conclusions
The data provide evidence that the integration of the main SCP into the VSP procedures improves the predictability and accuracy of postoperative reconstruction outcomes.
Experimental investigation of pulp high vacuum dewatering by suction boxes
Authors: Mafela Mahlohonono , Louw Tobias , Görgens Johann , Saunders Garreth , de Gois Michael Garces , Kotze Johannes P , Westhuizen Wian Van der , Tyhoda Luvuyo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The reduction of energy consumption by industrial processes has become imperative due to rising energy costs and efforts toward decarbonisation. The continuous manufacturing of paper is energy intensive due in part to the water removal process required to convert pulp slurries to valuable paper products. This necessitates the development of energy conservation techniques, while simultaneously ensuring the quality of the product. A pilot-scale test unit was developed to quantify the effects of dwell time, vacuum pressure, and refining energy on the achievable pulp mass concentration or dryness level of three pulp types utilised in paper machines. Pulp dry matter was investigated as a means of gauging vacuum consumption and hence energy utilisation in paper machines, which could potentially reduce utility consumption of the overall drying process. A novel approach to simulate the pulsating high vacuum zone in the forming section of a paper machine was implemented, allowing the development of statistical correlations to explore vacuum dewatering conditions that may lead to energy efficiency. Bleached hardwood, mechanical/groundwood and recycled pulp were characterised to determine the effects of refining energy on fibre morphology and their drainage behaviour in pulp slurries. A dryness level of 21.8% at -55 kPa gauge was achieved for bleached hardwood, whereas lower values of 19.8% and 18.3% were observed for recycled and mechanical pulps, respectively. This behaviour was attributed to the differences in drainability and morphology of the pulps due to their respective unique properties, further exaggerated by refining.
Evaluation of Anti-Toxoplasma activity of Basil (Ocimum basilicum) in Experimentally Infected Diabetic or Hypertensive Mice
Authors: Ali Mona Ibrahim , Ismail Mousa Abdel Gawad Mousa , Zalat Rabab Sayed , Ghieth Marwa Ahmed , Gawad Samah Sayed Abdel , Ahmed Marwa Mohamed , Farouk Raghda Ramadan , Mousa Amr M. A. , Wahab Wegdan Mohamed Abd El 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a cosmopolitan disease caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). The probable correlation between toxoplasmosis and chronic disorders such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension is up challenging and still understood. Several treatments for toxoplasmosis are used but it is poorly tolerated. Herbal plant extracts are widely introduced as a possible source of treatment for several diseases. The present study aimed to assess the prophylactic and therapeutic effect of basil on toxoplasmosis in diabetic and hypertensive mice compared to spiramycin. A total number of 77 mice were divided into control, and basil treated group and the effectiveness of the drugs was measured in both hypertensive and diabetic mice. Parasitological assessment showed that all treated groups showed a statistically significant reduction in the median tissue cysts count compared to infected control groups. Combined (basil and spiramycin) showed the highest reduction rates of T. gondii cysts count in both hypertensive and diabetic groups. Histopathological assessment demonstrated moderate to marked improvement of brain, spleen and kidney inflammation in all treated groups especially the combined treated groups. In conclusion, basil showed promising an antiparasitic effect on toxoplasmosis in hypertensive and diabetic mice. More research are needed, however, to precisely investigate basil's prophylactic and therapeutic effects on chronic toxoplasmosis in both in vitro and in vivo models.
Revealing Public Knowledge on Threatened Species of Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak for Conservation
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamad Syahrul Nizam , Johari Shazali , Hassan Suziana 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Species knowledge is fundamental to understanding the relationships between species and the environment, supporting the sustainability of natural resources. In this case study, lack of knowledge and ignorance of the species’ current status could instigate the extinction of certain species in Gunung Mulu National Park (GMNP), which possibly led to UNESCO status withdrawal. Both the local population and visitors are the closest stakeholders in the conservation efforts of GMNP. However, it still limited information on to what extent they know about the biodiversity and conservation value of major species in GMNP according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Therefore, this study examined their knowledge of the concepts of biodiversity and the status of threatened species in GMNP. A questionnaire was distributed to the local community (n = 99) and visitors (n = 87) through face-to-face and online surveys, respectively. They were asked about basic knowledge of biodiversity and the native species identification based on conservation priorities through a given guided picture. Based on thematic analysis, most respondents (43.5%) could only interpret biodiversity terms and relate them to genes and species. Yet their understanding of the biodiversity concept and its degradation impacts is high. The findings also presented that those who are retired, have lower income, and have fewer dependents tend to have a lower level of species literacy. Therefore, the empirical study provides insights into developing a biodiversity conservation framework for GMNP, emphasising species literacy among the public to promote holistic park management.
The Efficacy of Patellar Denervation on Prognosis and Kneeling Capacity after Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sun Ying-Jin , Liu Ning , Huang Long , Chen Xiang-Yang , Zhao Shuai , Feng Shuo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of patellar denervation (PD) on pain, function and ability to kneel after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).
Methods
Patients with medial knee osteoarthritis who underwent UKA were prospectively selected. Patients were divided into PD and non-PD groups based on whether patellar denervation was performed. Clinical assessment was performed using the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score, Kujiala score, visual analogue scale (VAS) and forgotten joint score (FJS-12), as well as postoperative complications were recorded. The patients' postoperative self-perception and actual ability to perform different kneeling positions were assessed in the two groups.
Results
UKA patients treated with PD achieved better Kujiala scores and FJS-12 scores, reduced anterior knee pain and improved kneeling ability postoperatively, validating the effectiveness of PD in UKA. Perception and actual performance of kneeling remained mismatched in PD patients, but performance during different kneeling activities was generally better than in non-PD patients.
Conclusion
Patellar denervation can safely and effectively improve patellofemoral joint function, pain and kneeling ability in the early postoperative period after UKA.
Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR1900025669
Effect of Cr content on microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of weld metal in weathering steel of high-speed train bogie
Authors: Wang Gaojian , Deng Dean , Kang Dandan , Ye Yanhong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The effects of Cr content on the microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of two weld metals containing Ti or Mo in the Ni-Cu alloy system for high-speed train bogies were studied. The results show that: In the weld containing Ti, Cr increases the acicular ferrite by about 15%, decreases the GF and FS, and slightly increases the M-A constituents. the effect of Cr on toughness is not obvious. In the weld containing Mo, Cr almost did not change the acicular ferrite content, resulted in a decrease in GF and an increase in FS, and a substantial increase in M-A constituents in the as-welded zone (0.4–2.5%). Cr reduces weld toughness due to increase the proportion and size of M-A constituents and coarsen inclusions, the impact energy at -40℃ and − 60℃ decreases by 44J and 16J respectively. For the corrosion resistance, the initial corrosion rate of Mo-containing welds is reduced by addition of Cr, mainly due to the formation of MnS on the inclusions, which absorbs Cr, is suppressed, MnS is easily dissolved. While in Ti-containing weld this effect is weakened. In addition, Cr densifies the inner and outer rust layers and then reduces the corrosion rate of weld rust layers.
Insensible Water Loss in Extremely Preterm Infants nursed in Incubators with 70% and 90% Relative Humidity.
Authors: dereddy Narendra , Ruth Deborah , Zhu Jianbin , Pepe Julie , Oh William 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective: To determine the insensible water losses (IWL) in preterm infants nursed in incubators with 70% or 90% relative humidity (RH).
Study design: This was a single center retrospective study of extremely preterm infants between 23- and 28-weeks gestational ages nursed in 70% and 90% RH. IWL was calculated using a formula that utilized infants’ fluid intake, urine output and body weight changes. IWL between the two groups were compared using independent t-test. Multivariate linear regression was used to assess the effects of humidity on IWL after adjusting for confounding variables.
Results: IWL was higher in infants nursed in 70% RH when compared with those nursed in 90% RH (47.7 ±30.3 vs. 28.8 ±39.6, p=002). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that RH has an independent effect on the insensible water loss.
Conclusion: Extremely preterm infants nursed in incubator with 70% RH have higher IWL than infants nursed in 90% RH.
The Changing Trend of Academic Influence of Science and Technology Journals Indexed by EI in Domestic "Double First Class" Universities and Strategies for Improving Key Indicators
Authors: Wang Yuenan , Zhai Tong , Gong Yan , Jiang Tianxiao , Han Xuedan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Explore the changing trends and key indicators of 25 scientific and technological journals, namely University Journals, included in EI for 20 "Double First Class" universities in China from 2014 to 2023. Based on the research of Scopus database literature and visual analysis using VOSviewer software, this study analyzes key indicators and research hotspots such as the total publication volume, annual average publication volume, average citation frequency, publication trend, CiteScore, SNIP, SJR, and keywords of journals included in EI in China's "Double First Class" universities. It qualitatively and quantitatively demonstrates the development trend of academic influence of domestic "Double First Class" university journals, explores the shortcomings of journals, and proposes corresponding development strategies. The academic quality of 25 journals from 20 universities included in EI varies significantly, but each has its own advantages and characteristics. However, the overall influence and competitiveness are not optimistic. In the context of the "Double First Class" construction, each university journal should rely on the advantages of its affiliated university, clarify its own positioning and advantages, retain high-quality articles from its affiliated university, and attach importance to high-quality articles from other universities related to key disciplines of its affiliated university. It should also strengthen scientific research cooperation with international institutions and universities to improve the academic level and international influence of the journal's papers.
Anti-biofilm peptides can rescue fluconazole and amphotericin B efficacies against Candida albicans
Authors: Kissmann Ann-Kathrin , Mildenberger Vanessa , Krämer Markus , Alpízar-Pedraza Daniel , Martell-Huguet Ernesto M. , Perez-Erviti Julio A. , Cetinkaya Ahmet , Pietrasik Joanna , Otero-Gonzalez Anselmo J. , Firacative Carolina , Rodríguez Armando , Ständker Ludger , Weil Tanja , Stenger Steffen , Rosenau Frank 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Candida albicans infections are a global health thread and challenge healthcare environments due to acquired resistances against prominent antifungals like amphotericin B and fluconazole, which additionally have severe adverse effects. The peptide Pom-1 originally isolated from the freshwater mollusk Pomacea poeyana, and its derivatives Pom-1A-F have proven their potential against biofilms of clinical C. albicans isolates and were suspected to act without candidolytic pore-formation. Here, Pom-1 and its derivatives were shown to act as neutralizing antimicrobial peptides (nAMPs) inhibiting cell-cell interactions and hence biofilm formation. Combining Pom-1 nAMPs with fluconazole and amphotericin B restored their efficacy against resistant C. albicansisolates. Addition of Pom-1 nAMPs allowed to reduce required concentrations to 10 – 50% below their described effective therapeutic doses. This opens doors not only to mitigate adverse effects of fluconazole and amphotericin B therapies, but also towards novel combination therapies against C. albicans as a severe re-emerging pathogen.
Cocrystal screening of benznidazole based on electronic transition, molecular reactivity, hydrogen bonding, and stability
Authors: Paneru Tirth , Chaudhary Manoj , Tandon Poonam , Joshi Bhawani 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A computational evaluation for the cocrystal screening of benznidazole (BZN) API through hydrogen bonding with four coformers (maleic acid, malonic acid, oxalic acid, and salicylic acid) containing carboxylic groups has been done using density functional theory. The nitrogen of the imidazole in benznidazole and the carboxylic group in the coformer form a hetero-synthon, forming a strong hydrogen bond between the molecules. The strength of hydrogen bonding O-H…N in all mentioned cocrystals was evaluated using QTAIM analysis, and the pairing energy of interaction is measured by determining donor and acceptor parameters for hydrogen bonds from maxima and minima on the MEP surface. When compared to BZN-malonic acid, BZN-oxalic acid, and BZN-salicylic acid cocrystals, the interaction energy for the BZN-maleic acid cocrystal for O-H...N bonding was found to be higher and it forms a strong interaction. The RDG plot and natural bond orbital analyses were also used to confirm the intermolecular hydrogen bonding of the OH group with the nitrogen of the imidazole ring of benznidazole in the cocrystal. The strength of hydrogen bond O-H…N was found to be more beneficial as compared to C-H...O interaction which was verified from ESP analysis. Based on frontier molecular orbital theory, it was found that the reactivity of BZN-salicylic acid cocrystal is more and is polarizable as compared to BZN-maleic acid, BZN-malonic acid, and BZN-oxalic acid cocrystals. Using the TD-DFT/6-311++G(d,p) method, the UV-Vis absorption spectrum was analyzed in the solvent water to determine the influence of solvent in cocrystals with a polarizable continuum model. Cocrystals of benznidazole were found to have better physicochemical characteristics than API benznidazole.
Enhanced hydrothermal stability and propylene selectivity by e-beam irradiation-induced hierarchical HZSM-5 additives
Authors: Vo Phuong N.X. , Ngo Phuong T. , Tran Tri V. , Luong Thuy N. , Le-Phuc Nguyen , Cao Chung V. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this work, hierarchical H-ZSM-5 catalysts (Si/Al molar ratio = 20, 30) with different levels of mesoporosity and acid strength were prepared via e-beam irradiation post-synthesis treatment and tested as propylene-increasing FCC additives. It was found that higher specific surface areas and highly accessible porous systems were obtained among the irradiated samples. Combination of 27Al, 1H MAS NMR and NH3-TPD methods showed that upon irradiation, part of framework tetrahedral Al atoms was removed as non-framework Al in flexible coordination with the Si-OH groups (either framework or non-framework defects), manipulating the acidic strength and the stability against hydrothermal dealumination. The enhanced selectivity and stability towards propylene production over the irradiated H-ZSM-5 samples were attributed to an integration of the reserved population of medium acid sites into the highly accessible hierarchical network.
EditABLE: A Simple Web Application for Designing Genome Editing Experiments
Authors: Maxim Demetrios S. , Wu David Wei , Johnson Najani Shanee , Charu Vivek , Carter Jennefer N. , Anand Shuchi , Church George M. , Bhalla Vivek 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

CRISPR–Cas genome editing is transformative; however, there is no simple tool available for determining the optimal genome editing technology to create specific mutations for experimentation or to correct mutations as a curative therapy for specific diseases. We developed editABLE, an online resource (editable-app.stanford.edu) to provide computationally validated CRISPR editors and guide RNAs based on user provided sequence data. We demonstrate the utility of editABLE by applying it to one of the most common monogenic disorders, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), identifying specific editing tools across the landscape of ADPKD mutations.