bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The application of organoids in cancers associated with pathogenic infections
Authors: Zhang Yuyu , Liu Tao , He Wenting 
Published: July 2024

AbstractCancers associated with pathogen infections are gradually becoming important threats to human health globally, and it is of great significance to study the mechanisms of pathogen carcinogenesis. Current mechanistic studies rely on animal and two-dimensional (2D) cell culture models, but traditional methods have been proven insufficient for the rapid modeling of diseases caused by new pathogens. Therefore, research focus has shifted to organoid models, which can replicate the structural and genetic characteristics of the target tissues or organs in vitro, providing new platforms for the study of pathogen-induced oncogenic mechanisms. This review summarizes the application of organoid technology in the studies of four pathogen-associated cancers: gastric cancer linked to Helicobacter pylori, liver cancer associated with hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus, colorectal cancer caused by Escherichia coli, and cervical cancer related to human papillomavirus. This review also proposes several limitations of organoid technology to optimize organoid models and advance the treatment of cancer associated with pathogen infections in the future.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Paliogiannis Panagiotis , Mangoni Arduino A. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe wide range of clinical and serological manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and the lack of accepted diagnostic criteria warrant the identification of novel, more accurate biomarkers. Hematological indices derived from full blood cell counts, particularly the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), have shown promise in SLE; however, a critical appraisal of their diagnostic accuracy is lacking. We sought to address this issue by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of the NLR and PLR in SLE. The electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched from inception to 15 March 2024 for studies reporting the sensitivity and specificity of the NLR and PLR, obtained by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, for the presence of SLE, disease severity, organ involvement (lupus nephritis, pericarditis, and pleural disease), and complications (infections). The risk of bias was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024531446). The NLR exhibited good accuracy for the diagnosis of SLE (eight studies; area under the curve, AUC = 0.81, 95% CI 0.78–0.85) and lupus nephritis (nine studies; AUC = 0.81, 95% CI 0.77–0.84), but not for severe disease (nine studies; AUC = 0.69, 95% CI 0.65–0.73) or infections (six studies; AUC = 0.73, 95% CI 0.69–0.77). The PLR exhibited good accuracy for the diagnosis of severe disease (six studies; AUC = 0.85, 95% CI 0.81–0.87). There were an insufficient number of studies to assess the accuracy of the PLR for the diagnosis of SLE, lupus nephritis, or infections. No study investigated the NLR and PLR in SLE patients with pericarditis or pleural disease. Therefore, the NLR and the PLR have a relatively high diagnostic accuracy for the presence of SLE and lupus nephritis (NLR) and severe disease (PLR). Further studies are warranted to determine whether the NLR and PLR, in combination with clinical evaluation and other serological biomarkers, can enhance the diagnosis and management of SLE.
Acceptability of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and Daily Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) during Pregnancy in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe
Authors: Young Alinda M. , Stoner Marie C.D. , Mathebula Florence , Mohuba Rebone , Baez Alejandro , Seyama Linly , Mutero Prisca , Etima Juliane , Fabiano Zayithwa , Fairlie Lee , Mayo Ashley J. , Balkus Jennifer E. , Song Mei , Bunge Katherine , Piper Jeanna , Balan Ivan C. , van der Straten Ariane , Montgomery Elizabeth T. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPregnant and lactating persons in sub-Saharan Africa face a heightened risk of HIV acquisition, due to biological and behavioral factors, combined with limited access to prevention and treatment services. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and the dapivirine vaginal ring are promising tools for HIV prevention, and the ring’s recent approval in multiple African countries represents a significant advancement in expanding access to HIV prevention. In a nested qualitative study within the MTN-042 trial, we explored the acceptability of study products among pregnant persons in the second and early third trimesters. Interviews were conducted privately, using a semi-structured guide with 77 participants, in participants’ preferred language. Topics explored included product acceptability (using the theoretical framework of acceptability), user experience, satisfaction, disclosure, community attitudes, and sexual activity during pregnancy. Interview transcripts were analyzed using Dedoose software. We observed positive attitudes among participants towards the study products, which they found generally user-friendly, despite the added complexities of using them during pregnancy. Participants recognized that consistent and correct use would provide protection for both them and their unborn children. Although initial concerns existed, most of these worries dissipated over time, with study staff support and increased product use experience. These findings emphasize the importance of continued surveillance, support, and education to ensure the successful rollout of new HIV prevention measures during pregnancy.
Left ventricular diastolic function assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with left ventricular aneurysm
Authors: Nemchyna Olena , Solowjowa Natalia , Hrytsyna Yuriy , Dandel Michael , Merke Nicolas , Knierim Jan , Schoenrath Felix , Just Isabell Anna , Hennig Felix , Hohendanner Felix , Falk Volkmar , Knosalla Christoph 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) parameters are an integral part of the assessment of left ventricular (LV) function. We aimed to evaluate established and novel STE parameters of LV diastolic function and their prognostic role in patients with LV anteroapical aneurysm undergoing surgical ventricular repair (SVR). We retrospectively examined the data of 137 patients with anteroapical LV aneurysm who underwent SVR. In 27 patients, the correlation of STE parameters with invasive hemodynamic parameters was evaluated. Preoperative echocardiographic parameters were assessed for their association with outcome, defined as all-cause mortality, LV assist device implantation, or heart transplantation. The late diastolic strain rate (GLSRa) showed a stronger correlation with mean pulmonary artery pressure (r =  − 0.75, p < 0.001) than all other parameters. GLSRa was also significantly correlated with mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and LV end-diastolic pressure. In the multivariate model, GLSRa and the ratio of early diastolic filling velocity to GLSRa demonstrated incremental prognostic value in addition to clinical and echocardiographic parameters. Patients with GLSRa < 0.59 s−1 had significantly shorter event-free survival than those with GLSRa > 0.59 s−1 (6.7 vs. 10.9 years, p < 0.001). Peak reservoir left atrial strain showed a weaker association with hemodynamic parameters and outcome compared to GLSRa. In patients with LV aneurysm, late diastolic strain rate and left atrial strain can be used for the assessment of LV diastolic function and have a predictive value for the outcome after surgical ventricular restoration.

Graphical abstract
Impact of Global Risk Factors on the Islamic Stock Market: New Evidence from Wavelet Analysis
Authors: Kazak Hasan , Saiti Buerhan , Kılıç Cüneyt , Akcan Ahmet Tayfur , Karataş Ali Rauf 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe emergence of Islamic finance as an alternative financial investment area and the increasing political and economic uncertainty around the world necessitated an examination of the relationship between these two factors. This study examines the impact of four important global uncertainty and risk indicators “Global Economic Policy Uncertainty-GEPU, Geopolitical Risk Index-GPR, World Uncertainty Index-WUI, and CBOE Volatility Index-VIX” on two important Islamic stock market indices (Dow Jones Islamic Market Index and Bist Participation 100) using wavelet coherence (WTC) and asymmetric Fourier TY analyzes Quarterly data for the period March 2011–June 2023 were used in the study. The results of the analysis show that economic instability indicators impact Islamic equity market indices (both in Turkey and the world). This effect is determined as VIX, GEPU, GPR, and WUI. In addition, the fact that the GPR and WUI indices, which have an impact on conventional markets, have truly little and only a partial impact on Islamic equity markets is an important finding. The results of this study make important contributions to the literature and provide important findings for investors and policy makers.
Exploring silicon nanoparticles and nanographite-based anodes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Thombare Sohan , Patil Rohan , Humane Ranjit , Kale Bharat , Kalubarme Ramchandra , Malavekar Dhanaji , Phadatare Manisha , Lokhande Chandrakant 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the performance of silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) and silicon nanographite (SiNG) composite-based anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LiBs). Si offers a promising alternative to traditional graphite anodes due to its higher theoretical capacity, despite encountering challenges such as volume expansion, pulverization, and the formation of a solid electrolyte interface (SEI) during lithiation. SiNPs anode exhibited initial specific capacities of 1568.9 mAh/g, decreasing to 1137.6 mAh/g after 100th cycles, with stable Li–Si alloy phases and high Coulombic efficiency (100.48%). It also showed good rate capability, retaining 1191.3 mAh/g at 8400 mA g−1 (2.82C), attributed to its carbon matrix structure. EIS indicated charge transfer with RB of 3.9 Ω/cm−2 and RCT of 11.4 Ω/cm−2. Contrastingly, SiNG composite anode had an initial capacity of 1780.7 mAh/g, decreasing to 1297.5 mAh/g after 100 cycles. Its composite structure provided cycling stability, with relatively stable capacities after 50 cycles. It exhibited good rate capability (1191.3 mAh/g at 8399.9 mA g−1), attributed to its carbon matrix structure. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy showed higher resistances for RB of 4.2 Ω/cm−2 and RCT of 15.6 Ω/cm−2 compared to SiNPs anode. These findings suggest avenues for improving energy storage devices by selecting and designing suitable anode materials.
Artificial intelligence in chronic kidney diseases: methodology and potential applications
Authors: Simeri Andrea , Pezzi Giuseppe , Arena Roberta , Papalia Giuliana , Szili-Torok Tamas , Greco Rosita , Veltri Pierangelo , Greco Gianluigi , Pezzi Vincenzo , Provenzano Michele , Zaza Gianluigi 
Published: July 2024

AbstractChronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a significant global health challenge, characterized by kidney damage and decreased function. Its prevalence has steadily increased, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its epidemiology, risk factors, and management strategies. While traditional prognostic markers such as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and albuminuria provide valuable insights, they may not fully capture the complexity of CKD progression and associated cardiovascular (CV) risks.This paper reviews the current state of renal and CV risk prediction in CKD, highlighting the limitations of traditional models and the potential for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. AI, particularly machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), offers a promising avenue for enhancing risk prediction by analyzing vast and diverse patient data, including genetic markers, biomarkers, and imaging. By identifying intricate patterns and relationships within datasets, AI algorithms can generate more comprehensive risk profiles, enabling personalized and nuanced risk assessments.Despite its potential, the integration of AI into clinical practice faces challenges such as the opacity of some algorithms and concerns regarding data quality, privacy, and bias. Efforts towards explainable AI (XAI) and rigorous data governance are essential to ensure transparency, interpretability, and trustworthiness in AI-driven predictions.
Hospital and municipal wastewater as a source of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the environment: a review
Authors: Męcik Magdalena , Stefaniak Kornelia , Harnisz Monika , Korzeniewska Ewa 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe increase in the prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, in particular Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), poses a serious threat for public health worldwide. This article reviews the alarming data on the prevalence of infections caused by CRAB and CRPA pathogens and their presence in hospital and municipal wastewater, and it highlights the environmental impact of antibiotic resistance. The article describes the key role of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the acquisition of carbapenem resistance and sheds light on bacterial resistance mechanisms. The main emphasis was placed on the transfer of ARGs not only in the clinical setting, but also in the environment, including water, soil, and food. The aim of this review was to expand our understanding of the global health risks associated with CRAB and CRPA in hospital and municipal wastewater and to analyze the spread of these micropollutants in the environment. A review of the literature published in the last decade will direct research on carbapenem-resistant pathogens, support the implementation of effective preventive measures and interventions, and contribute to the development of improved strategies for managing this problem.
Graphical Abstract
Rational Optimism
Authors: Wilson Matthew F. , VanderWeele Tyler J. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractOptimistic beliefs have been criticized by philosophers as being irrational or epistemically deficient. This paper argues for the possibility of a rational optimism. We propose a novel four-fold taxonomy of optimistic beliefs and argue that people may hold optimistic beliefs rationally for at least two of the four types (resourced optimism and agentive optimism). These forms of rational optimism are grounded in facts about one’s resources and agency and may be epistemically justified under certain conditions. We argue that the fourth type of optimism in our taxonomy (perspectival optimism) is not subject to epistemic scrutiny in the same way. It is better evaluated on practical and moral grounds. This paper advances the discussion of optimism within both the philosophical and psychological literatures by providing a compelling and philosophically rich taxonomy of optimism that clarifies the sometimes-competing forms of optimism identified by psychologists. This advances the field by putting forward cases of epistemically justified optimism, in contrast with unrealistic optimism, that is sometimes justified for its instrumental or adaptive characteristics, and also by highlighting a form of optimism, perspectival optimism, that is not being considered in the mainstream optimism literature in psychology. The paper concludes by suggesting several avenues for future empirical and philosophical research.
Mirabai Seeks God: A Journey of Devotional Love and Longing
Authors: Patel Nirali 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In this paper, I will be discussing, through the lens of this paradox, the experiences of a Hindu devotee of God, the 16th-century poet Mirabai. I will map out some contours of this interaction that seems to be conceptually impossible and yet animates the devotional life. I will explore how Mirabai seeks to transgress, through her poetic expressions alternating with joy and sorrow, the finite realm and somehow contain the divine non-finite reality, namely, Krishna. As we will see, her attempts to engage with Krishna, her non-finite beloved, and generate a loving interaction between herself and Krishna often leads to the disappearance of Krishna which encases her in a spiral of deep suffering and lament. However, it is precisely this agony that enables her to gradually withdraw herself from the finite world and, in turn, immerse herself devotionally in Krishna. I will explore, in the final section, the nature of Mirabai’s devotional victory, and how these moments of suffering, in the experience of separation from Krishna (viraha-bhakti), are yet charged with a liberating power. This spiritual telos allows for a deep devotional connection to be established between her finite self and Krishna, a connection that cannot be articulated straightforwardly on the logical plane.
Photophysical Properties and Photovoltaic Performance of Sensitizers with a Bipyrimidine Acceptor
Authors: Liu Shiling , Gong Kun , Li Wei , Liu Dongzhi , Zhou Xueqin 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMolecular engineering is a crucial strategy for improving the photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Despite the common use of the donor–π bridge–acceptor architecture in designing sensitizers, the underlying structure–performance relationship remains not fully understood. In this study, we synthesized and characterized three sensitizers: MOTP-Pyc, MOS2P-Pyc, and MOTS2P-Pyc, all featuring a bipyrimidine acceptor. Absorption spectra, cyclic voltammetry, and transient photoluminescence spectra reveal a photo-induced electron transfer (PET) process in the excited sensitizers. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy confirmed the presence of charge-separated states. The varying donor and π-bridge structures among the three sensitizers led to differences in their conjugation effect, influencing light absorption abilities and PET processes and ultimately impacting the photovoltaic performance. Among the synthesized sensitizers, MOTP-Pyc demonstrated a DSSC efficiency of 3.04%. Introducing an additional thienothiophene block into the π-bridge improved the DSSC efficiency to 4.47% for MOTS2P-Pyc. Conversely, replacing the phenyl group with a thienothiophene block reduced DSSC efficiency to 2.14% for MOS2P-Pyc. Given the proton-accepting ability of the bipyrimidine module, we treated the dye-sensitized TiO2 photoanodes with hydroiodic acid (HI), significantly broadening the light absorption range. This treatment greatly enhanced the short-circuit current density of DSSCs owing to the enhanced electron-withdrawing ability of the acceptor. Consequently, the HI-treated MOTS2P-Pyc-based DSSCs achieved the highest power conversion efficiency of 7.12%, comparable to that of the N719 dye at 7.09%. This work reveals the positive role of bipyrimidine in the design of organic sensitizers for DSSC applications.
Impact of European egg marking system in France: empirical time series analysis between 2017 and 2022
Authors: Bosseaux Jessica , Balcombe Kelvin , Aurier Philippe 
Published: July 2024

AbstractVoluntary labeling strategies, such as Organic label or Label Rouge, have long been considered as a potential solution to address environmental and social issues in the food sector. As a complement, the European political authorities developed a mandatory marking system for fresh eggs. This article questions the effectiveness of public intervention to support sustainable practices using analysis of the demand for fresh eggs in France. Unit root (augmented Dickey Fuller) tests, stationarity (KPSS) tests, and Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) models are used to investigate the unit root behavior of the prices and expenditure shares of fresh eggs in France between 2017 and 2022. We use the Almost Ideal Demand System model on scanner data to analyze the demand of six eggs’ categories, including mandatory egg codes and two labels (Organic and Label Rouge). The results suggest that a low price does not compensate for low sustainability involvement in eggs from caged farming, favoring free range eggs. Label Rouge shows market weaknesses, while the organic label shows promising results with both a voluntary and a specific mandatory mark. The lack of elasticity observed, except between cage and free range eggs, implies that consumers who choose high-priced products with voluntary labeling strategies are less inclined to switch to alternatives. The mandatory marking system brings more transparency than voluntary labeling initiative, in favor of sustainable products. The case of eggs is a relevant example of how market intervention can push sustainable consumption and production without forbidding products in the market.
Interactions Between Biochar and Nano(Micro)Plastics in the Remediation of Aqueous Media
Authors: Cairns Stuart , Meza-Rojas Diana , Holliman Peter J. , Robertson Iain 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPlastic is a material that has become ubiquitous since entering the marketplace in the 1930s and 1940s; as a result, the presence of nano and microplastics (NMPs) are pervasive in natural environments affecting air, soil and water ecosystems. These NMPs are varied in size (categorised as either microplastics at 5 mm–1 µm or nanoplastics at < 1 µm), shape and chemical composition. They represent a potential threat to aquatic life and human health through ingestion and inhalation. The toxicity of NMPs is attributed to chemical additives introduced during production and the absorbance of inorganic and organic chemical contaminants in environmental settings. This review is designed to discuss the use of biochar as a natural adsorbent for the remediation of water contaminated with NMPs. Biochar is a sustainable, affordable material which can remediate water and contribute to ecosystem restoration. Whilst it is well established as a material to sorb organic and inorganic contaminants, its use to remove NMPs is in its infancy and as such this review sets out to outline the mechanisms and modifications of biochar to remove NMPs from aqueous environments. Although removal mechanisms in laboratory settings are becoming clearer this review highlights that remediative studies need to be undertaken in conjunction with the systematic investigation of the effect of key environmental parameters on remediation and the use of environmentally aged NMPs. The future direction of this discipline also needs to incorporate field trials alongside laboratory work to develop a stronger understanding of the viability of biochar to remove NMPs from waterways.