bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biosynthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using plant extracts and evaluation of their antibacterial activity
Authors: Elkhateeb Omima , Atta Mohamed B. , Mahmoud Esawy 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe biosynthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles has received increasing attention in the field of food nanotechnology because of their non-toxicity, high efficiency, high antibacterial power, and decontamination features. Therefore, biosynthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (nFe) was prepared from the leaves of some vegetables, such as cabbage (C) and turnips (T), as well as moringa leaves (M). Alcoholic extracts of these nanoparticles were also tested on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli to evaluate their antibacterial activity. The results revealed that the particle sizes of the biosynthesis nanomaterials studied ranged from 12.99 to 22.72 nm, and the particles were spherical, irregular, and surrounded by black color. It also contains many functional groups and minerals. Iron nanoparticles modified with Moringa oleifera extract at a concentration of 200 ppm had the highest phenol content compared to other biosynthesis nanoparticles studied. TnFe and MnFe at 200 ppm had a maximum zone of inhibition of 25 mm and 24 mm against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. While the minimum inhibition zone of 8.0 mm was observed at 25 ppm for nFe against Escherichia coli. Therefore, it is recommended to use these extracts of biosynthesis iron oxide nanoparticles as antibacterial agents for stored foods.
Prevalence and associated factors of TB and HIV coinfections among adult inmates with presumptive pulmonary TB in a Kenyan prison
Authors: Mwatenga Suleiman Athuman , Musa Ali A. , Muturi Margaret W. , Musyoki Abednego Moki 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Tuberculosis (TB) is more than ten times higher in prisons compared to the general population, and HIV-infected persons are at increased risk of developing active TB and death. In the World Health Organization (WHO) African region, however, where the TB and HIV coinfections are highest, and prisons rarely factored in national disease surveillance, epidemiological data to inform TB control interventions in correctional facilities is limited. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of TB and HIV coinfections, as well as the factors associated with coinfections in our study setting.

Methods
This was a prospective cross-sectional study among 157 adult (≥ 18 years) prisoners presenting with symptoms of pulmonary TB at Shimo La Tewa Prison, Kenya, between January and June 2023. The study excluded those with a history of anti-TB drugs use or on treatment follow-up and collected demographic and clinical characteristics data using a questionnaire. Sputum samples were collected and processed immediately using Xpert® MTB/RIF assay or stored at 4 °C for three (3) days in case of delay.

Results
The overall prevalence of TB among inmates with presumptive pulmonary TB was 10.2%, 95% CI 6.37–16.91% (16/157), HIV 19.1%, 95% CI 13.73–25.97% (30/157). All the TB cases were positive for HIV (16/16, 100%), translating to TB/HIV coinfection of 10.2%, 95% CI 6.37–16.91% (16/157), and there was no rifampicin resistance. TB and HIV coinfection cases were found among underweight (100%, 16/16) prisoners. The independent factors associated with TB and HIV coinfections were education level (adjusted OR = 0.17, p = 0.007), smoking history (adjusted OR = 3.01, p = 0.009) and illegal drug use history (adjusted OR = 4.55, p = 0.044).

Conclusion
We report a high prevalence of pulmonary TB and HIV coinfections among adult inmates with presumptive pulmonary TB in Kenya, with education level, smoking status, and illegal drug use as the independent factors associated with the coinfection. The authority should take measures to protect HIV-positive prisoners from TB, focusing on education, nutrition, smoking, and illegal drug use.
The heart of celiac disease: understanding dilated cardiomyopathy, pathophysiology, and care—a systematic review
Authors: Yadavalli Rajesh , Nawaz Sarosh , Althwanay Abdulaziz Mohammed , AlEdani Esraa M. , Kaur Harleen , Kasapoglu Malik , Hamid Pousette Farouk 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Cardiac manifestations are infrequently reported in association with celiac disease, but clear link has not been established. The aim of this study was to explore the connection of dilated cardiomyopathy in celiac disease. This systematic review also provides a comprehensive overview of the association between celiac disease and various cardiac manifestations with pathophysiology and management.

Main body
We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Embase, Scopus, and Springer nature databases through June 4th 2023 for preferred studies related to our topic using MeSH and Regular keywords. After comprehensive search analysis, data extraction and quality appraisal 19 studies were included in the study. Although results varied across studies, majority of the studies revealed a positive link. Notably, some studies suggested an association between celiac disease and dilated cardiomyopathy, while others did not. These discrepancies could be attributed to differences in methodologies, study populations, and regional variations. Several studies have shown the association of various cardiac manifestations in celiac disease.

Conclusion
Although dilated cardiomyopathy is associated with celiac disease in majority of the studies, there are also studies that conflict with the association. The complex relationship between celiac disease and cardiovascular manifestations potentiates the need for further research with standardized methodologies, larger sample sizes, and consideration of regional variations. Such insights are vital for improving clinical practice by establishing preventive strategies, active screening, early diagnosis, mitigating risks which helps in optimizing cardiovascular health in individuals with celiac disease.
A Growth Differentiation Factor 15 Receptor Agonist in Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials in Healthy or Obese Persons
Authors: Smith William B , Nguyen David , Clough Timothy , Schofield Jül , Kagan Mark R , Kompa Jill , He YanLing , Maratos-Flier Eleftheria , Jamontt Joanna , Vong Linh , Schwartzkopf Chad D , Layne Joseph D , Usera Aimee R , O’Donnell Christopher J , Heldwein Kurt A , Streeper Ryan S , Goldfine Allison B 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), a divergent member of the TGF-β superfamily, signals via the hindbrain glial-derived neurotrophic factor receptor alpha-like and rearranged during transfection receptor co-receptor (GFRAL-RET) complex. In nonclinical species, GDF15 is a potent anorexigen leading to substantial weight loss. MBL949 is a half-life extended recombinant human GDF15 dimer.

Methods
MBL949 was evaluated in multiple nonclinical species, and then in humans, in 2 randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trials. In the phase 1, first-in-human, single ascending dose trial, MBL949 or placebo was injected subcutaneously to overweight and obese healthy volunteers (n = 65) at doses ranging from 0.03 to 20 mg. In phase 2, MBL949 or placebo was administered subcutaneously every other week for a total of 8 doses to obese participants (n = 126) in 5 different dose regimens predicted to be efficacious based on data from the phase 1 trial.

Results
In nonclinical species, MBL949 was generally safe and effective with reduced food intake and body weight in mice, rats, dogs, and monkeys. Weight loss was primarily from reduced fat, and metabolic endpoints improved. A single ascending dose study in overweight or obese healthy adults demonstrated mean terminal half-life of 18 to 22 days and evidence of weight loss at the higher doses. In the phase 2, weight loss was minimal following biweekly dosing of MBL949 for 14 weeks. MBL949 was safe and generally tolerated in humans over the dose range tested, adverse events of the gastrointestinal system were the most frequent observed.

Conclusion
The prolonged half-life of MBL949 supports biweekly dosing in patients. MBL949 had an acceptable safety profile. The robust weight loss observed in nonclinical species did not translate to weight loss efficacy in humans.
Data-driven Thyroglobulin Cutoffs for Low- and Intermediate-risk Thyroid Cancer Follow-up: ITCO Real-world Analysis
Authors: Grani Giorgio , D’Elia Silvia , Puxeddu Efisio , Morelli Silvia , Arvat Emanuela , Nervo Alice , Spiazzi Giovanna , Rolli Nicoletta , Zatelli Maria Chiara , Ambrosio Maria Rosaria , Ceresini Graziano , Marina Michela , Mele Chiara , Aimaretti Gianluca , Santaguida Maria Giulia , Virili Camilla , Crescenzi Anna , Palermo Andrea , Rossetto Giaccherino Ruth , Meomartino Letizia , Castagna Maria Grazia , Maino Fabio , Trevisan Matteo , De Leo Simone , Chiofalo Maria Grazia , Pezzullo Luciano , Sparano Clotilde , Petrone Luisa , Di Dalmazi Giulia , Napolitano Giorgio , Tumino Dario , Crocetti Umberto , Bertagna Francesco , Deandrea Maurilio , Antonelli Alessandro , Mian Caterina , Carbone Antonella , Monti Salvatore , Porcelli Tommaso , Brigante Giulia , Barbaro Daniele , Alfò Marco , Ferraro Petrillo Umberto , Filetti Sebastiano , Durante Cosimo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Context
The utility of thyroglobulin (Tg) in the follow-up of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer has been well-documented. Although third-generation immunoassays have improved accuracy, limitations persist (interfering anti-Tg antibodies and measurement variability). Evolving treatment strategies require a reevaluation of Tg thresholds for optimal patient management.

Objective
To assess the performance of serum Tg testing in 2 populations: patients receiving total thyroidectomy and radioiodine remnant ablation (RRA) or treated with thyroidectomy alone.

Design
Prospective observational study.

Setting
Centers contributing to the Italian Thyroid Cancer Observatory database.

Patients
We included 540 patients with 5 years of follow-up and negative anti-Tg antibodies.

Interventions
Serum Tg levels assessed at 1-year follow-up visit.

Main Outcome Measure
Detection of structural disease within 5 years of follow-up.

Results
After excluding 26 patients with structural disease detected at any time point, the median Tg did not differ between patients treated with or without radioiodine. Data-driven Tg thresholds were established based on the 97th percentile of Tg levels in disease-free individuals: 1.97 ng/mL for patients undergoing thyroidectomy alone (lower than proposed by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center protocol and ESMO Guidelines, yet demonstrating good predictive ability, with a negative predictive value of 98% and 0.84 ng/mL for patients receiving postsurgical RRA. High sensitivity and negative predictive value supported the potential of these thresholds in excluding structural disease.

Conclusion
This real-world study provides evidence for the continued reliability of 1-year serum Tg levels. The data-driven Tg thresholds proposed offer valuable insights for clinical decision-making in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy with or without RRA.
Approach to the Patient With Suspected Hypotonic Polyuria
Authors: Newell-Price John , Drummond Juliana Beaudette , Gurnell Mark , Levy Miles , McCormack Ann , Cooper Deborah , Wass John , Christ-Crain Mirjam , Verbalis Joseph G 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Investigation and management of hypotonic polyuria is a common challenge in clinical endocrinology. The 3 main causes, recently renamed to arginine vasopressin deficiency (AVP-D, formerly central diabetes insipidus), arginine vasopressin resistance (AVP-R, formerly nephrogenic diabetes insipidus), and primary polydipsia (PP) require accurate diagnosis, as management differs for each. This new nomenclature more accurately reflects pathophysiology and has now been adopted by the Systemized Nomenclature of Medicine (SNOMED). Advances in diagnosis over the last few years have centered around the use of copeptin measurement. Here, we use 3 patient case histories to highlight the use of this approach, and to demonstrate how it can succeed where other approaches, such as the water deprivation test, sometimes fail. We discuss the overall approach to each type of patient and the strengths and limitations of diagnostic strategies, illustrating the use of the new nomenclature.
Thyroid Hormone Receptors Function in GABAergic Neurons During Development and in Adults
Authors: Flamant Frédéric , Richard Sabine 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The nuclear receptors of thyroid hormone exert a broad influence on brain development and then on adult brain physiology. However, the cell-autonomous function of the receptors is combined with their indirect influence on cellular interactions. Mouse genetics allows one to distinguish between these 2 modes of action. It revealed that 1 of the main cell-autonomous functions of these receptors is to promote the maturation of GABAergic neurons. This review presents our current understanding of the action of thyroid hormone on this class of neurons, which are the main inhibitory neurons in most brain areas.
Fasciotomy and Occupational Separation among US Service Members with Lower Extremity Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Authors: NELSON D. ALAN , KAZMAN JOSH B. , NELSON KENNETH , EDGEWORTH DANIEL B. , LINDOW MICHAEL F. , EMANUELE PETER , CLIFTON DANIEL R. , CHOI Y. SAMMY , SHELL DONALD , DEUSTER PATRICIA A. 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Purpose
Lower extremity chronic exertional compartment syndrome (LE-CECS) can limit rigorous physical activity, particularly in the US military, and fasciotomy is a potential treatment. Associations between LE-CECS, fasciotomy, and occupational outcomes appear understudied. We studied active-duty US service members to identify whether LE-CECS diagnoses and fasciotomy for LE-CECS predict military service separation.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 1,103,417 individuals who entered service during 2011 to 2017. Distributions of separation statuses and independent variables were tabulated, and sex-specific multivariable regression models were computed for separation outcomes.

Results
LE-CECS was associated with a 474% medical service separation risk in men (95% confidence interval (CI) for adjusted risk ratio: 5.21 to 6.33) and a 282% increase in women (CI: 2.99 to 4.88). Among 1947 patients with LE-CECS, men saw a 57% nonmedical separation risk increase (CI: 1.27 to 1.93) and women had a 119% increase (CI: 1.10 to 4.35) when anterior and/or lateral compartment procedures occurred. Men with LE-CECS and any posterior procedures saw a 47% nonmedical separation risk increase (CI: 1.17 to 1.86). Men with anterior and/or lateral procedures and any posterior procedures experienced 36% (CI: 1.09 to 1.71) and 78% (CI: 1.40 to 2.26) medical separation risk increases, respectively. No statistically significant risk increases for the outcomes were otherwise seen for women.

Conclusions
LE-CECS was associated with increased military service discharge risks. Among the affected patients, positive effects on career longevity were not seen in association with fasciotomy. However, fasciotomy could simply serve as a marker of the most refractory cases that are least likely to continue service. More study is needed to clarify causal pathways and identify patients who may derive career benefits from surgical treatment.
On a Network Centrality Maximization Game
Authors: Catalano Costanza , Castaldo Maria , Como Giacomo , Fagnani Fabio 
Published: August 2024

We study a network formation game where n players, identified with the nodes of a directed graph to be formed, choose where to wire their outgoing links in order to maximize their PageRank centrality. Specifically, the action of every player i consists in the wiring of a predetermined number di of directed out-links, and her utility is her own PageRank centrality in the network resulting from the actions of all players. We show that this is a potential game and that the best response correspondence always exhibits a local structure in that it is never convenient for a node i to link to other nodes that are at incoming distance more than di from her. We then study the equilibria of this game determining necessary conditions for a graph to be a (strict, recurrent) Nash equilibrium. Moreover, in the homogeneous case, where players all have the same number d of out-links, we characterize the structure of the potential-maximizing equilibria, and in the special cases d = 1 and d = 2, we provide a complete classification of the set of (strict, recurrent) Nash equilibria. Our analysis shows in particular that the considered formation mechanism leads to the emergence of undirected and disconnected or loosely connected networks. Funding: This research was carried out within the framework of the Ministero dell’Università e della Ricerca (MIUR)-funded Progetto di Eccellenza of the Dipartimento di Scienze Matematiche G. L. Lagrange, Politecnico di Torino [CUP: E11G18000350001]. It received partial support from the MIUR-funded project PRIN 2017 “Advanced Network Control of Future Smart Grids” and from the Compagnia di San Paolo.
KNUST aging and human immunodeficiency virus outcomes—Study protocol
Authors: Werekuu Alex , Ayisi-Boateng Nana Kwame , Tagoe Nadia , Opoku Douglas Aninng , Barnie Bernard , Twumasi Godfred Kumi , Boadu Yaa Twumwaa , So-Armah Kaku , Tawiah Phyllis 
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Globally, 7 million people with HIV (PWH) aged over 50 years exist. 5 million of them live in sub-Saharan Africa, the epicenter of the HIV epidemic. In Ghana, every 1 in 6 PWH is aged over 50 years. However, access to geriatric health care is grossly limited in Ghana and the sub-Saharan Africa region. This has resulted in a lack of focus on geriatric syndromes, a multi-factorial clinical condition common in older PWH, that do not fit discrete disease categories. Consequently, this gap threatens the life expectancy for aging PWH, necessitating the need to promptly fill it. The KNUST Aging and HIV Outcomes (KAHO) study will help identify priorities and opportunities for developing an effective integrated model of HIV and geriatric healthcare in Ghana.

Methods and analysis
The KAHO study will recruit 151 PWH aged 50 years and older at the Infectious Disease Unit (IDU) of the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). The study will be conducted over a 2-year period and participants will be seen at months 0, 6 and 12. Participants at each visit will be taken through assessments and questionnaires on geriatric health, cognition, social vulnerability, HIV-related conditions and they will provide biospecimens for laboratory testing. We will also conduct semi-structured qualitative interviews of PWH, healthcare providers, policy makers and study research assistants. Quantitative data will be analyzed using one sample proportion test and linear regression models appropriately. The Levesque’s framework will be used as a guide to analyze qualitative data.
Pelvic floor muscle training in women with urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse: A protocol study
Authors: de Carvalho Maria Letícia A. S. , Bezerra Lívia Oliveira , Oliveira Joyce Maria Pereira , Oliveira Maria Clara Eugênia , Micussi Maria T. A. B. C. 
Published: August 2024

Objective
To evaluate the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function and quality of life (QoL) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Methods
This study will be a randomized, controlled, parallel, and blinded clinical trial. The final sample will consist of 32 women diagnosed with SUI and cystocele (stage I and II). All volunteers will be assessed and reassessed using the same protocol: assessment form, gynecological examination, functional evaluation of PFM, and questionnaires to assess quality of life, urinary function, and sexual function. All volunteers will be evaluated for satisfaction levels post-treatment. The intervention will be PFMT, totaling 16 sessions to be conducted twice a week. Reevaluation will take place at the end of treatment and 1 month after completion of PFMT. Descriptive analysis and repeated measures ANOVA will be used for result analysis. A significance level of p<0.05 will be considered for all statistical tests.

Ethics and dissemination
This study has been submitted to the Ethics in Research Committee of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte and approved under protocol number 5.826.563. It has been registered with the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry ReBec (RBR-49p6g3t). It is expected that these studies will provide a deeper understanding of the efficacy of PFMT in women with SUI and cystocele. Additionally, it aims to provide more insights into the efficacy of PFMT prior to surgery.
Die ganze Leistung?
Authors: Kerber-Clasen Stefan , Mauritz Carolin 
Published: August 2024

Zusammenfassung
Der Leistungsbegriff und die damit zusammenhängenden Fragen nach der Art der Leistung und den leistungserbringenden Subjekten werden in kapitalistischen Gesellschaften zwar immer wieder neu, jedoch gleichbleibend erwerbsarbeitszentriert verhandelt. In unserem Artikel fokussieren wir hingegen Leistungserzählungen in Arbeitsformen jenseits der Erwerbsarbeit. Unter Einbezug von Gruppendiskussionen und biografischen Interviews aus zwei unterschiedlichen qualitativen Forschungsprojekten analysieren wir, wie Freiwillige und Haus- und Sorgearbeit leistende Frauen Leistung darstellen und konzeptionalisieren. Unser Ziel ist es, den arbeitssoziologischen Blick auch auf Formen und Darstellungen von Leistung jenseits der Erwerbsarbeit zu lenken und die Frage nach der gesellschaftlichen Konstruktion und Anerkennung von Leistung erneut zu diskutieren.
Long non-coding RNAs in bone formation: Key regulators and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Jiang Chun , Wang Peng , Tan ZhenWei , Zhang Yin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Recent scientific investigations have revealed the intricate mechanisms underlying bone formation, emphasizing the essential role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as critical regulators. This process, essential for skeletal strength and functionality, involves the transformation of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts and subsequent deposition of bone matrix. lncRNAs, including HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR), metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), differentiation antagonizing non-coding RNA (DANCR), and maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3), have emerged as prominent players in this regulatory network. HOTAIR modulates osteoblast differentiation by interacting with chromatin-modifying enzymes, while MALAT1 regulates osteogenic differentiation through microRNA interactions. DANCR collaborates with Runx2 to fine-tune osteoblast differentiation, and MEG3 orchestrates multiple signaling pathways crucial for bone formation. Moreover, other lncRNAs such as H19, lncRNA for enhancing osteogenesis 3, rhabdomyosarcoma 2-associated transcript, urothelial cancer associated 1, taurine up-regulated gene 1, and nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 contribute to the complex regulatory network governing osteoblast activities. Understanding the precise roles of these lncRNAs offers promising avenues for developing innovative therapeutic strategies targeting bone-related disorders like osteoporosis. Overall, this review summarizes the pivotal role of lncRNAs in bone formation, highlighting their potential as targets for future research endeavors aimed at advancing therapeutic interventions in bone diseases.