bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mechanical properties of branch and stem wood for two Mediterranean cultivars of olive tree
Authors: Mammoliti Angelo , Cataldo Maria Francesca , Papandrea Salvatore Francesco , Proto Andrea Rosario 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThere is currently a strong interest in wood and the demand for this material is expected to grow significantly worldwide. Consequently, market demand for wood from fruit orchards is growing as an additional source of supply. For these reasons, several studies were conducted to evaluate the properties of wood derived by orchard pruning or dismantling. Despite the abundance of raw materials from pruning, the mechanical properties of olive wood have not been studied completely by the scientific community, so the woody material obtained is usually considered waste or firewood. In fact, there is still a lack of knowledge about olive wood characteristics and considering the valuable role of olive species in the Mediterranean area, the current study aimed to determine and compare the physical and mechanical properties of branches and stem wood of two olive tree cultivars, “Sinopolese” and “Ottobratica”, to provide information on this wood species. These two olive cultivars are commonly cultivated in the Calabria region (Southern Italy) for the extraction of oil from drupes, but large masses of wood are derived from their pruning. For the choice of parts, the stem was considered to become a branch when, above each branch intersection, it changed in diameter and direction of growth. The branches with a diameter lower than 20 cm were excluded. The tests conducted for this purpose were: Roughness profile; Impact wave; Vibrational analysis; Static modulus of elasticity; Bending strength; Abrasion resistance; Static hardness; Footprints; Compression strength; Screw withdrawal resistance parallel to grain; Screw withdrawal resistance perpendicular to grain. A MANOVA analysis was conducted between the Cultivar-Tree part and the physical and mechanical properties. The results showed some differences between the two cultivars principally related to mechanical properties such as moduli of elasticity and rupture, footprint, compression strength, and screw withdrawal resistances, where in general, the “Sinopolese” cultivar showed higher values than the “Ottobratica”. Between the tree parts (stem and branches) within the same cultivars, branches demonstrated higher results in the majority of the tests, but highlighting statistical differences only in terms of static modulus of elasticity, bending strength, static hardness and screw withdrawal resistances depending on the cultivar. This result suggests that the branch wood, with its characteristics, could be valorized in the commercial utilization representing a valid opportunity for the local rural economy, even considering the conspicuous amount of wood obtained from olive pruning activity. Expanding knowledge about olive wood in terms of physical and mechanical characteristics could increase its use in multiple sectors and ensure a more aware use of the application of the wood resources by supporting the decision on its best end use.
PTBP1 knockdown impairs autophagy flux and inhibits gastric cancer progression through TXNIP-mediated oxidative stress
Authors: Wang Shimin , Wang Xiaolin , Qin Changhong , Liang Ce , Li Wei , Ran Ai , Ma Qiang , Pan Xiaojuan , Yang Feifei , Ren Junwu , Huang Bo , Liu Yuying , Zhang Yuying , Li Haiping , Ning Hao , Jiang Yan , Xiao Bin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent malignant tumor, and the RNA-binding protein polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 (PTBP1) has been identified as a crucial factor in various tumor types. Moreover, abnormal autophagy levels have been shown to significantly impact tumorigenesis and progression. Despite this, the precise regulatory mechanism of PTBP1 in autophagy regulation in GC remains poorly understood.

Methods
To assess the expression of PTBP1 in GC, we employed a comprehensive approach utilizing western blot, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT–qPCR), and bioinformatics analysis. To further identify the downstream target genes that bind to PTBP1 in GC cells, we utilized RNA immunoprecipitation coupled with sequencing (si-PTBP1 RNA-seq). To evaluate the impact of PTBP1 on gastric carcinogenesis, we conducted CCK-8 assays, colony formation assays, and GC xenograft mouse model assays. Additionally, we utilized a transmission electron microscope, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, western blot, RT–qPCR, and GC xenograft mouse model experiments to elucidate the specific mechanism underlying PTBP1’s regulation of autophagy in GC.

Results
Our findings indicated that PTBP1 was significantly overexpressed in GC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. Silencing PTBP1 resulted in abnormal accumulation of autophagosomes, thereby inhibiting GC cell viability both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, interference with PTBP1 promoted the stability of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) mRNA, leading to increased TXNIP-mediated oxidative stress. Consequently, this impaired lysosomal function, ultimately resulting in blockage of autophagic flux. Furthermore, our results suggested that interference with PTBP1 enhanced the antitumor effects of chloroquine, both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion
PTBP1 knockdown impairs GC progression by directly binding to TXNIP mRNA and promoting its expression. Based on these results, PTBP1 emerges as a promising therapeutic target for GC.

Graphical Abstract
Comparison of serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), soluble E-cadherin (sE-cad), and inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase-2 (IMPDH-2) as aggressive prostate cancer predictors
Authors: Umar Ahmed Mohammed , Mungadi Ismaila Arzika , Agwu Ngwobia Peter , Abdulwahab-Ahmed Abdullah , Muhammad Abubakar Sadiq , Khalid Abdullahi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to compare serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), Soluble E-cadherin (sE-cad), and Inosine Monophosphate Dehydrogenase-2 in predicting prostate cancer aggressiveness by determining their correlations with Gleason score and International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) Grade Groups.

Methods
This was a hospital-based descriptive quantitative cross-sectional study whereby we enrolled 48 newly diagnosed prostate adenocarcinoma patients in the study. Their serum was analysed for PSA, sE-cad, and IMPDH-2. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to test the correlation between the serum sE-cad and Gleason score while Spearman rho correlation coefficient was used for PSA and IMPDH-2. The correlation coefficient (r) was graded as very weak (< 0.3), weak (0.3–0.4), moderate (0.5–0.6), or strong (≥ 0.7), while the magnitude was determined by calculating the coefficient of determination for the respective analysis (R2). The correlation between the biomarkers and the ISUP Grade groups was determined using the Kendall tau correlation coefficient (τ). All levels of statistical significance were set at p < 0.05.

Results
The mean age of the subjects was 69.4 years. The Means of serum PSA, sE-cad, and IMPDH-2 were 47.2 ng/ml, 136.5 ng/ml, and 89.8 pg/ml respectively. Serum PSA weakly correlated with both Gleason score (r = 0.3, p = 0.04) and ISUP grade groups (τ = 0.3, p = 0.02). The magnitude was 0.097. Similarly, serum sE-cad correlated weakly with both Gleason scores (r = 0.4, p = 0.01), and ISUP Grade Groups (τ = 0.3, p = 0.005). The magnitude was 0.134. However, serum IMPDH-2 neither correlated with Gleason score (r = 0.03, p = 0.86) nor ISUP Grade Groups (τ = 0.004, p = 0.97). Serum sE-cad did not outperform both IMPDH-2 (p = 0.91) or PSA (p = 0.23) in predicting the Gleason score.

Conclusions
Serum sE-cad best predicted aggressive prostate cancer but did not statistically outperform serum PSA or IMPDH-2. Hence, neither of the three are reliable predictors of aggressive prostate cancer.
A long way from Frome: improving connections between patients, local services and communities to reduce emergency admissions
Authors: Withers Kathleen , Pardy Karen , Topham Lynne , Lee Rachel , Ghanghro Amir , Cryer Hazel , Williams Huw 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Low socio-economic status can lead to poor patient outcomes, exacerbated by lack of integration between health and social care and there is a demand for developing new models of working.

Aim
To improve connections between patients, local services and their communities to reduce unscheduled admissions.

Design and setting
A primary care cluster with areas of high deprivation, consisting of 11 general practices serving over 74,000 people.

Method
A multi-disciplinary team with representatives from healthcare, local council and the third sector was formed to provide support for people with complex or social needs. A discharge liaison hub contacted patients following hospital discharge offering support, while cluster pharmacists led medicine reviews. Wellbeing Connectors were commissioned to act as a link to local wellbeing and social resources. Advance Care Planning was implemented to support personalised decision making.

Results
Unscheduled admissions in the over 75 age group decreased following the changes, equating to over 800 avoided monthly referrals to assessment units for the cluster. Over 2,500 patients have been reviewed by the MDT since its inception with referrals to social prescribing groups, physiotherapy and mental health teams; these patients are 20% less likely to contact their GP after their case is discussed. An improved sense of wellbeing was reported by 80% of patients supported by wellbeing connectors. Staff feel better able to meet patient needs and reported an increased joy in working.

Conclusion
Improved integration between health, social care and third sector has led to a reduction in admissions, improved patient wellbeing and has improved job satisfaction amongst staff.
Mapping the evidence on dementia care pathways – A scoping review
Authors: Saragosa Marianne , MacEachern Evan , Chiu Mary , Weylie Sean , Schneider Krista , Maloney Elaine R , Holland Jordanne , Kuluski Kerry , Orchanian-Cheff Ani , Nelson Michelle LA 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
One way of standardizing practice and improving patient safety is by introducing clinical care pathways; however, such pathways are typically geared towards assisting clinicians and healthcare organizations with evidence-based practice. Many dementia care pathways exist with no agreed-upon version of a care pathway and with little data on experiences about their use or outcomes. The objectives of the review were: (1) to identify the dementia care pathway’s purpose, methods used to deploy the pathway, and expected user types; (2) to identify the care pathway’s core components, expected outcomes, and implications for persons with dementia and their care partners; and (3) determine the extent of involvement by persons with dementia and/or their care partners in developing, implementing, and evaluating the care pathways.

Methods
We systematically searched six literature databases for published literature in the English language in September 2023 utilizing Arskey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework.

Results
The findings from the dementia care pathways (n = 13) demonstrated assistance in dementia diagnostic and management practices for clinicians and offered structured care processes in clinical settings. For this reason, these pathways emphasized assessment and interventional post-diagnostic support, with less emphasis on community-based integrated dementia care.

Conclusion
Future dementia care pathway development can seek the involvement of persons with dementia and care partners in designing, implementing and evaluating such pathways, ensuring that outcome measures properly reflect the impact on persons with lived dementia experience and their care partners.
Age at separation, residential mobility, and depressive symptoms among twins in late adolescence and young adulthood: a FinnTwin12 cohort study
Authors: Wang Zhiyang , Whipp Alyce M. , Heinonen-Guzejev Marja , Kaprio Jaakko 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Separating with close siblings and leaving the parental home at an early age represents a major life event for an adolescent (reflected by age at separation in a twin pair) and may predispose them to poor mental health. This study aims to examine the association of age at separation and residential mobility on depressive symptoms in late adolescence and young adulthood and to explore possible underlying genetic effects.

Methods
Residential mobility consisted of the number and total distance of moves before age 17. Based on 3071 twins from the FinnTwin12 cohort, we used linear regression to assess the association of age at separation and residential mobility with General Behavior Inventory (GBI) scores at age 17 and in young adulthood. A higher GBI score indicated more depressive symptoms occurred. Then, the mixed model for repeated measures (MMRM) was used to visualize the scores’ trajectory and test the associations, controlling for "baseline" state. Twin analyses with a bivariate cross-lagged path model were performed between the difference in GBI scores, between cotwins, and separation status for the potential genetic influence.

Results
Compared to twins separated before age 17, twins who separated later had significantly lower GBI scores at age 17 and in young adulthood. In MMRM, separation at a later age and a higher number of moves were associated with a higher GBI score in young adulthood. A small genetic effect was detected wherein GBI within-pair differences at age 17 were associated with separation status before age 22 (coefficient: 0.01).

Conclusion
The study provides valid evidence about the influence of siblings and family on depressive symptoms in later adolescence and young adulthood while finding some evidence for a reverse direction effect. This suggests more caution in the interpretation of results. A strong association between residential mobility and depressive symptoms was affirmed, although further detailed research is needed.
Treatment patterns in patients with newly diagnosed COPD in the USA
Authors: Anzueto Antonio , Rogers Sheri , Donato Bonnie , Jones Beverly , Modi Kushal , Olopoenia Abisola , Wise Robert 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Prompt and effective management with maintenance therapy (single or dual bronchodilator therapy) is recommended after the initial diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to maintain lung function and prevent exacerbations. Contrary to guideline-based recommendations, most patients are not prescribed maintenance treatment at initial diagnosis. The current study assessed the pharmacologic treatment patterns and outcomes of newly diagnosed patients with COPD in the USA.

Methods
This retrospective, noninterventional study used de-identified data from the Inovalon Insights’ database (Commercial, Medicaid Managed Care, and Medicare Advantage–insured individuals) between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2021. The “patient journey” from initial diagnosis was followed over a 4-year period. The primary outcome measure was the number of moderate or severe exacerbations. Secondary outcome measures included the cumulative incidence of exacerbations, mean cumulative count of moderate and severe exacerbations, rates of moderate and severe exacerbations in patients who remained untreated after diagnosis in 12-month time periods for 4 years, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and pharmacologic treatment patterns.

Results
The cohort consisted of 238,158 newly diagnosed patients with COPD (female [52.9%]; mean age 63.8 years). The majority of patients with COPD had Medicaid as their primary insurance (46.2%). Overall, during the 4-year follow-up period, 32.9% of the patients had at least one moderate or severe exacerbation, and 25.8% and 13.8% experienced moderate and severe exacerbations, respectively. At diagnosis, 86.2% of the patients were untreated and most remained untreated by the end of the follow-up (63.8%). Most patients (62.0%) received long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)/inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) as their initial treatment at diagnosis, and LABA/ICS continued to be the most common initial treatment during the 4-year period (64.0% at year 1; 58.0% at year 4).

Conclusions
Most patients with COPD were not treated at initial diagnosis and remained untreated during follow-up. Our data highlight a lack of adherence to recommendations for clinical practice.
Deterioration of neuroimmune homeostasis in Alzheimer’s Disease patients who survive a COVID-19 infection
Authors: Villareal Jonathan A. B. , Bathe Tim , Hery Gabriela P. , Phillips Jennifer L. , Tsering Wangchen , Prokop Stefan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractGrowing evidence has implicated systemic infection as a significant risk factor for the development and advancement of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). With the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and the resultant pandemic, many individuals from the same aging population vulnerable to AD suffered a severe systemic infection with potentially unidentified long-term consequences for survivors. To study the impact of COVID-19 survival on the brain’s intrinsic immune system in a population also suffering from AD, we profiled post-mortem brain tissue from patients in the UF Neuromedicine Human Brain and Tissue Bank with a diagnosis of AD who survived a COVID-19 infection (COVID-AD) and contrasted our findings with AD patients who did not experience a COVID-19 infection, including a group of brain donors who passed away before arrival of SARS-CoV-2 in the United States. We assessed disease-relevant protein pathology and microglial and astrocytic markers by quantitative immunohistochemistry and supplemented these data with whole tissue gene expression analysis performed on the NanoString nCounter® platform. COVID-AD patients showed slightly elevated Aβ burden in the entorhinal, fusiform, and inferior temporal cortices compared to non-COVID-AD patients, while tau pathology burden did not differ between groups. Analysis of microglia revealed a significant loss of microglial homeostasis as well as exacerbated microgliosis in COVID-AD patients compared to non-COVID-AD patients in a brain region-dependent manner. Furthermore, COVID-AD patients showed reduced cortical astrocyte numbers, independent of functional subtype. Transcriptomic analysis supported these histological findings and, in addition, identified a dysregulation of oligodendrocyte and myelination pathways in the hippocampus of COVID-AD patients. In summary, our data demonstrate a profound impact of COVID-19 infection on neuroimmune and glial pathways in AD patients persisting for months post-infection, highlighting the importance of peripheral to central neuroimmune crosstalk in neurodegenerative diseases.
Transcriptomic analysis unveils bona fide molecular signatures of microglia under conditions of homeostasis and viral encephalitis
Authors: Mulenge Felix , Gern Olivia Luise , Busker Lena Mareike , Aringo Angela , Ghita Luca , Waltl Inken , Pavlou Andreas , Kalinke Ulrich 
Published: August 2024

AbstractMicroglia serve as a front-line defense against neuroinvasive viral infection, however, determination of their actual transcriptional profiles under conditions of health and disease is challenging. Here, we used various experimental approaches to delineate the transcriptional landscape of microglia during viral infection. Intriguingly, multiple activation genes were found to be artificially induced in sorted microglia and we demonstrated that shear stress encountered during cell sorting was one of the key inducers. Post-hoc analysis revealed that publicly available large-scale single-cell RNA sequencing datasets were significantly tainted by aberrant signatures that are associated with cell sorting. By exploiting the ribosomal tagging approach, we developed a strategy to enrich microglia-specific transcripts by comparing immunoprecipitated RNA with total RNA. Such enriched transcripts were instrumental in defining bona fide signatures of microglia under conditions of health and virus infection. These unified microglial signatures may serve as a benchmark to retrospectively assess ex vivo artefacts from available atlases. Leveraging the microglial translatome, we found enrichment of genes implicated in T-cell activation and cytokine production during the course of VSV infection. These data linked microglia with T-cell re-stimulation and further underscored that microglia are involved in shaping antiviral T-cell responses in the brain. Collectively, our study defines the transcriptional landscape of microglia under steady state and during viral encephalitis and highlights cellular interactions between microglia and T cells that contribute to the control of virus dissemination.
Design and performance analysis of low damage anti-skid crescent drills for bone drilling
Authors: Zhao Jing , Wu Di , Wu Xiaojie , Zhang Ziyang , Wen Zhiguo , Liu Sinan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
With orthopedic surgery increasing year on year, the main challenges in bone drilling are thermal damage, mechanical damage, and drill skid. The need for new orthopedic drills that improve the quality of surgery is becoming more and more urgent.

Methods
Here, we report the skidding mechanism of drills at a wide range of inclination angle and propose two crescent drills (CDTI and CDTII). The anti-skid performance and drilling damage of the crescent drills were analyzed for the first time. Inclined bone drilling experiments were carried out with crescent drills and twist drills and real-time drilling forces and temperatures were collected.

Results
The crescent drills are significantly better than the twist drill in terms of anti-skid, reducing skidding forces, thrust forces and temperature. The highest temperature is generated close to the upper surface of the workpiece rather than at the hole exit. Finally, the longer crescent edge with a small and negative polar angle increases the rake angle of the cutting edge and reduces thrust forces but increases skidding force and temperature. This study can promote the development of high-quality orthopedic surgery and the development of new bone drilling tools.

Conclusion
The crescent drills did not skid and caused little drilling damage. In comparison, the CDTI performs better in reducing the skidding force, while the CDTII performs better in reducing the thrust force.