bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the associations between elevated plasma SP-D levels and OSCAR gene expression as potential biomarkers in patients with COPD: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mukhtar Saima , Choudhry Nakhshab , Saeed Saqib , Hanif Asif , Gondal Aamir J. , Yasmin Nighat 
Published: July 2024

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) imposes a substantial burden on patients and healthcare systems. Spirometry is the most widely used test to diagnose the disease; however, a surrogate marker is required to predict the disease pattern and progression.Objectives: The aim of the current study was to explore the association of elevated levels of plasma surfactant protein D (SP-D) with gene expression of osteoclast-associated receptor (OSCAR) and lung functions as potential diagnostic biomarkers of COPD.Methods: This cross-sectional study employed convenience sampling. As men compose the majority of patients in the outpatient department and with smoking being common among Pakistani men, choosing men offered a representative sample. Using a post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) to a forced vital capacity (FVC) of less than 0.70 (FEV1/FVC &lt;0.7), COPD patients were diagnosed on spirometry (n = 41). Controls were healthy individuals with FEV1/FVC &gt;0.7 (n = 41). Plasma SP-D levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The gene expression of OSCAR was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and subsequently analyzed by the threshold cycle (Ct) method. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 was used for statistical analysis.Results: The mean BMI of controls (25.66 ± 4.17 kg/m2) was higher than that of cases (23.49 ± 2.94 kg/m2 (p = .008)). The median age of controls was 49 years (interquartile range (IQR) 42.0–65.0 years) and that of cases was 65 years (IQR = 57.50–68.50). SP-D concentration was not significantly higher in COPD patients [4.96 ng/mL (IQR 3.26–7.96)] as compared to controls [3.64 ng/mL (IQR 2.60–8.59)] (p = .209). The forced expiratory ratio (FEV1/FVC) and FEV1 were related to gene expression of OSCAR (p = &lt;.001). The gene expression of OSCAR was significantly related to SP-D (p = .034). A multiple regression model found FEV1 and FVC to have a significant effect on the gene expression of OSCAR (p-values &lt;0.001 and 0.001, respectively).Conclusion: Gene expression of OSCAR was increased in COPD patients and related directly to SP-D levels and inversely to lung functions in cohort of this study, suggesting that OSCAR along with SP-D may serve as a diagnostic biomarker of COPD.
Impact of carboxylic acid structure on α-hemihydrate gypsum crystal morphology and mechanical strength
Authors: Li Guo-gang , Liu Jin-e , Ma Liang , Gong Hao-lei , Yin Su-hong 
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the synthesis of α-hemihydrate gypsum (α-HH) through semi-liquid autoclaving of phosphogypsum (PG) using various carboxylic acids as modifying agents. The impact of carboxyl group spatial location, auxiliary functional group type, and the number of carboxyl groups within the carboxylic acid modifiers on the mechanical strength and crystal morphology of α-HH was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), strength testing, and molecular dynamics simulations. The results revealed a significant influence of the carboxylic acid molecular structure on the α-HH crystal morphology. Monocarboxylic acids and dicarboxylic acids with a long carbon chain length between carboxyl groups exhibited preferential adsorption on the (200), (110), and (−110) crystal planes, promoting crystal growth along the c-axis. In contrast, hydroxyl groups and cis double bonds in the modifier structure induced selective adsorption on the (001) plane, hindering growth along the c-axis. Conversely, trans double bonds favored adsorption on the (200), (110), and (−110) planes, enhancing growth along the c-axis. Based on these observations, screening principles for carboxylic acid modifiers were established, suggesting that: 1) the number of carboxyl groups should exceed 2; 2) the optimal carbon atom spacing between carboxyl groups is 3; and 3) auxiliary functional groups such as hydroxyl groups and cis double bonds should be introduced. Modifiers like citric acid, ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), and pyromellitic acid, within concentration ranges of 0.05%–0.1%, 0.1%–0.15%, and 0.05%–0.1%, respectively, yielded α-HH with flexural strengths exceeding 4 MPa and compressive strengths greater than 35 MPa, demonstrating the validity of these principles.
Bacterial community structure of Physalis peruviana L. fruit exocarp and the presence of pathogens with possible implications on food safety
Authors: Tenea Gabriela N. , Molina Diana 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionCape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) is a wellconsumed crop in Ecuador, whose fruits are abundant in bioactive molecules. Its rapid post-harvest deterioration and safety limit its market potential.MethodologyTo gather baseline data on the prevalence of bacterial taxa among groups, we employed 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) amplicon gene sequencing to detect changes in the bacterial community structure in cape gooseberry fruits harvested from an organic farm production system (# 270 samples x two ripeness stages), and fruits obtained from an open-air market (#270).ResultsThis is the first report of bacterial taxa inhabiting cape gooseberry fruits. Shannon’s diversity index revealed that the fruits purchased from the market and the unripe stage had the highest level of bacterial diversity (average Shannon indices of 3.3 and 3.1) followed by those collected from the field at the mature ripe stage (2.07). Alpha diversity analysis indicated that there were no significant differences in the number of taxa or evenness within the sample, whereas there was a significant difference in beta diversity between the groups. Rhizobiaceae was the most abundant family in fruits originating from the field regardless of the ripe stage, while Acetobacteraceae, Pseudomonadaceae, Fusobacteriaceae, Bacteroidaceae, and Erwiniaceae were the most abundant families in the market group. At the genus level, Liberibacter was the most abundant phytopathogen in fruits originating from the field, while Gluconobacter was the most abundant in samples collected from the market. The phytopathogen Candidatus_Liberibacter was the most abundant in samples collected from the field, while the fruits purchased from the market stands contained opportunistic enteric pathogens such as Escherichia vulneris, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and K. variicola, their relative abundance varied with the sample. In addition, potential pathogens of animal origin such as Fusobacterium necrophorum, Porphyromonas levii, Helcococcus ovis, and Trueperella pyogenes were found in almost all samples at varying relative abundance.ConclusionOur study provides basic information on the microbiome of cape gooseberries from agriculture fields to the table along with the detection of several pathogenic microorganisms with possible impact on food safety and public health therefore, strategies for reducing bacterial contamination in both farm and retail markets are compulsory.
Unconscious multisensory integration: behavioral and neural evidence from subliminal stimuli
Authors: Frumento Sergio , Preatoni Greta , Chee Lauren , Gemignani Angelo , Ciotti Federico , Menicucci Danilo , Raspopovic Stanisa 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThe prevailing theories of consciousness consider the integration of different sensory stimuli as a key component for this phenomenon to rise on the brain level. Despite many theories and models have been proposed for multisensory integration between supraliminal stimuli (e.g., the optimal integration model), we do not know if multisensory integration occurs also for subliminal stimuli and what psychophysical mechanisms it follows.MethodsTo investigate this, subjects were exposed to visual (Virtual Reality) and/or haptic stimuli (Electro-Cutaneous Stimulation) above or below their perceptual threshold. They had to discriminate, in a two-Alternative Forced Choice Task, the intensity of unimodal and/or bimodal stimuli. They were then asked to discriminate the sensory modality while recording their EEG responses.ResultsWe found evidence of multisensory integration for supraliminal condition, following the classical optimal model. Importantly, even for subliminal trials participant’s performances in the bimodal condition were significantly more accurate when discriminating the intensity of the stimulation. Moreover, significant differences emerged between unimodal and bimodal activity templates in parieto-temporal areas known for their integrative role.DiscussionThese converging evidences - even if preliminary and needing confirmation from the collection of further data - suggest that subliminal multimodal stimuli can be integrated, thus filling a meaningful gap in the debate about the relationship between consciousness and multisensory integration.
Is adding resources always beneficial? Multiplicative impact of psychological capital and goal-oriented climate on Spanish public worker satisfaction and engagement
Authors: Díaz-Fúnez Pedro Antonio , Cardella Giuseppina María , Hernández-Sánchez Brizeida Raquel , Sánchez-García José Carlos , Mañas-Rodríguez Miguel Ángel 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThe motivation process from personal resources to commitment of administrative employees is still little studied. This article uses the Job Demands-Resources model to investigate how the multiplicative effect of personal resources and a goal-oriented climate among public employees influences their satisfaction and engagement at work. Specifically, it proposes a model where the influence of psychological capital on engagement is mediated by job satisfaction and moderated by the goal orientation climate.MethodA total of 326 employees of the administrative staff of a Spanish Public Administration answered a self-reported survey. Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) approach was used to evaluate the validity and reliability of the data, as well as, to test the hypotheses formulated.ResultsThe SEM results show the positive impact of psychological capital on employee engagement, and the mediating role of job satisfaction in this relationship. Furthermore, the existence of a goal-oriented climate negatively moderated the relationship between Psychological Capital and Job Satisfaction, reducing the mediation effect.DiscussionThese findings open new doors for future research in the necessary adaptation of human resource policies to improve the motivation process in the public administration context.
The effects of ambient particulate matter air pollution on platelets and hemostasis
Authors: Hantrakool Sasinee , Sriwichai Maitree , Shaengkhamnang Banphot , Leetrakool Nipapan , Niprapan Piangrawee , Kawichai Sawaeng , Wannakul Sitapak , Panyasit Noppamas , Tuntivate Pakinee , Wongtagan Ornkamon , Natesirinilkul Rungrote , Koonyosying Pimpisid , Phinyo Phichayut , Punnachet Teerachat , Hantrakun Nonthakorn , Piriyakhuntorn Pokpong , Rattanathammethee Thanawat , Chai-Adisaksopha Chatree , Rattarittamrong Ekarat , Tantiworawit Adisak , Norasetthada Lalita , Srichairatanakool Somdet 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionElevated ambient pollution exposure is potentially linked to thromboembolism. However, the mechanisms by which particulate matter (PM) interferes with the balance of hemostatic system remain unclear. This study investigates PM-mediated hemostatic changes in individuals across unique seasonal variations of ambient pollution.MethodsThis prospective study was conducted between February and July 2020 during alterations in ambient pollution in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Blood tests from 30 healthy subjects were assessed at four-week intervals, four times in total. Various coagulation tests, including prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), von Willebrand factor (vWF), platelet count, and platelet functions, were evaluated. A mixed-effects model was used to analyze the impact of high PM2.5 and PM10 on hemostatic parameters.ResultsThirty male subjects with mean age of 38.9 ± 8.2 years, were included. High levels of PM2.5 and PM10 were significantly associated with PT shortening, with no such effect observed in aPTT. PM2.5 and PM10 values also positively correlated with vWF function, while vWF antigen levels remained unchanged. Soluble P-selectin showed a strong positive association with PM2.5 and PM10 levels. Platelet function analysis revealed no correlation with PM values.ConclusionShort-term exposure to elevated PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations was linked to shortened PT and enhanced vWF function in healthy individuals. Exploring the impact of these changes on clinically relevant thrombosis is crucial. Additional studies on the pathogenesis of pollution-related thrombosis are warranted for maintaining good health.
Exploring the relationship between physical activity and cognitive function: an fMRI pilot study in young and older adults
Authors: Feng Jie , Song Huiqi , Wang Yingying , Zhou Qichen , Zhou Chenglin , Jin Jing 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundThere are limited studies exploring the relationship between physical activity (PA), cognitive function, and the brain processing characteristics in healthy older adults.MethodsA total of 41 participants (42.7 ± 20.5 years, 56.1% males) were included in the data analysis. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form was used to assess PA levels, and the Chinese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Basic and the Flanker task were employed to evaluate cognitive function. Furthermore, fMRI technology was utilized to examine brain activation patterns.ResultsThe cognitive function of the older adults was found to be significantly lower compared to the young adults. Within the older adults, those with high levels of PA exhibited significantly higher cognitive function than those with low and medium PA levels. The fMRI data showed significant differences in brain activation patterns among young adults across the different PA levels. However, such difference was not observed among older adults.ConclusionA decline in cognitive function was observed among older adults. There was a significant correlation between the levels of PA and cognitive function in healthy older adults. The study demonstrated significant effects of PA levels on brain activation patterns in inhibitory control-related regions among young adults, while not significant among older adults. The findings suggest that neurological mechanisms driving the relationship between PA and cognitive function may differ between older and young adults.
Case Report: Benefits of LSVT LOUD in a multilingual patient with hypokinetic-hyperkinetic dysarthria and suspected progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Sebestyen Amanda , Hilger Allison , Kleiber Holly 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis case study measured how well the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) improved vocal features, intelligibility, and communicative effectiveness for a multilingual participant with hypokinetic-hyperkinetic dysarthria secondary to suspected progressive supranuclear palsy. LSVT treatment was chosen for the participant due to the strengths and deficits he presented with prior to treatment, and for the anticipated challenges in treatment that may arise from the presence of multilingualism and impaired cognitive functioning.MethodsA multilingual patient in their 60's (English, Spanish, and French) with hypokinetic-hyperkinetic dysarthria secondary to suspected progressive supranuclear palsy completed the standard treatment sessions for LSVT. Assessment measures were taken at baseline, immediately post-treatment, and three-months post-treatment.ResultsImprovements were measured in vocal quality, vocal loudness, intelligibility, and communicative effectiveness immediately post-treatment. Three months post-treatment, improvements in vocal quality and intelligibility were maintained.ConclusionThis case study illustrates that LSVT may be a beneficial treatment for complex clients who are multilingual and present with complex comorbidities and cognitive deficits. LSVT resulted in some meaningful changes in vocal quality, intelligibility, and communicative effectiveness for this individual. Clinicians who work with complex patients may wish to consider the theoretical underpinnings of LSVT, client profile, areas of client need, and ability and desire to complete an intensive treatment program to determine if trialing LSVT is appropriate. The use of LSVT with complex clients may yield positive outcomes.
Beyond the Iron Throne: exploring the representation of homosexuality in the series Game of Thrones
Authors: Louis Gerome Karthic Kumar , Chithra Gandhapodi K. 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThis research delves into the representation of homosexuality in the television series Game of Thrones, adapted from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire saga. The study focuses on the navigation and portrayal of homosexual identities and relationships within a historically patriarchal and heteronormative genre.MethodologyA qualitative research approach, specifically thematic analysis, was utilized to scrutinize the portrayal of homosexuality across all eight seasons and 73 episodes of Game of Thrones. The analysis encompassed pivotal scenes, character development, and dialogues related to homosexual representation.FindingsThematic analysis revealed several significant themes concerning the representation of homosexuality, including heteronormativity, the interplay of love and war, and the societal and personal impacts of sexual identity. The series portrays the challenges and resilience of homosexual characters, such as Renly Baratheon and Loras Tyrell, against a backdrop of political intrigue and personal ambition. However, the depiction at times veers into sensationalism, which may potentially desensitize viewers to the real-life struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.DiscussionThe study findings suggest that while Game of Thrones aims to depict homosexual relationships with complexity and depth, it also risks perpetuating negative stereotypes and sensationalizing trauma for dramatic effect. This dual portrayal underscores the broader challenge within popular media to balance representation with responsible storytelling. The study emphasizes the necessity for more nuanced and empathetic portrayals of marginalized groups to promote greater understanding and inclusivity in media narratives.
Biologic and genomic characterization of a novel virulent Aeromonas hydrophila phage phiA051, with high homology to prophages
Authors: Wang Yuzhi , Tong Guixiang , Jiang Xinglong , Tu Chuandeng , Cai Hongjiao , Fang Wenhong , Tan Honglian , Weng Qibiao , Wei Xinxian , Lin Mao 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionAeromonas hydrophila is particularly harmful to freshwater aquaculture, and the search for phage is an effective biological control method, but reports of possible temperate phages and their mutants are rare in this field. In this study, a virulent phage highly homologous to prophage in the genomes of A. hydrophila was collected and preliminary biological characterization was carried out to understand its nature.Materials and methodsWater samples taken from eel ponds in Fujian, China were combined with the strain. Spot test method and double-layer agar plate assay was used for confirmation and purification. Phage virions were observed using transmission electron microscope. A total of 68 strains of Aeromonas spp. were used to determine the host range. MOI groups of 1,000, 100, 10, 1, 0.1, 0.01, 0.001, 0.0001, 0.00001 were prepared to detect the optimal MOI. The conditions of thermal stability assay were set as 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80°C for 1 h, respectively, and conditions of acid and alkali stability assay were set as 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0, 10.0 and 12.0 of pH. MOI of 0.01 and 0.1, respectively, are set to determine the inhibitory capacity of phage.ResultsA novel virulent A. hydrophila phage designated phiA051 has been isolated from aquaculture water. Electron microscopic observation showed that the phage phiA051 was composed of an icosahedral capsid. The phage phiA051 possesses an optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 0.01, and its burst size was 108 PFU/cell. The phage maintained a high viability at temperatures of 30–50°C or pH 6.0–10.0 for 1  h. Phage phiA051 has certain potentials in rapidly inhibiting the spread of pathogen early in the outbreak, and it has a linear dsDNA with GC content of 60.55% and a total length of 32,212  bp, including 46 ORFs.DiscussionThe phage phiA051 behaved as a virulent phage. However, the BLASTN result showed that 23 of the top 25 hits were genomes of Aeromonas strains. It was suggested that phiA051 was probably derived from some prophage in the chromosome of Aeromonas. Further investigation of the mechanism how phage phiA051 transforms from a temperate phage to a virulent phage will provide a unique perspective and idea to explore the potential of prophages.
Surgical reconstruction of a composite nasomaxillary and superior labial defect in a dog with a fascia lata graft, titanium mesh implant and angularis oris axial pattern flap
Authors: Tu Tsung-Han , Thatcher Graham P. , Soukup Jason W. 
Published: July 2024

ObjectiveTo document the successful surgical reconstruction of a composite nasomaxillary and superior labial defect using a fascia lata graft, titanium mesh and angularis oris axial pattern flap in a dog.Case summaryAn estimated 2-year-old female intact mixed-breed dog was presented with a composite (hard and soft tissue) nasomaxillary defect, suspected to be caused by a chemical burn. Physical examination revealed nasal discharge, exposed bilateral maxilla and nasal bone, nasomaxillary fistula with air movement, and intrinsic discoloration of the left maxillary canine tooth. The soft tissue lesion extended from the nasal planum rostrally to the medial canthus of the left eye distally and from the right maxillary bone to include a full thickness loss of the left maxillary labium laterally. Computed tomographic images of the head showed chronic osteomyelitis of the maxilla, zygomatic and nasal bones with nasomaxillary fistula and numerous exposed roots of the left maxillary premolars. Staged surgical procedures to address the dentition and nasomaxillary defect were planned. The first procedure consisted of the extraction of periodontally compromised left maxillary premolars, and standard root canal therapy of bilateral maxillary canine teeth. The second procedure consisted of debridement of the non-vital soft and hard tissues and surgical reconstruction of the nasomaxillary defect after virtual surgical planning. Head computed tomography performed 5 months post-operatively revealed a decrease in the size of the osseous defect as well as the resolution of rhinitis.Clinical relevanceThis case demonstrates the feasibility of using a combination of soft tissue graft, titanium mesh, and axial pattern flap in managing nasomaxillary defects. Such defects can lead to chronic rhinitis, infection, discomfort, and long-term morbidity. This case report provides a novel but practical approach for managing defects in the nasomaxillary region in dogs.