bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ganduqing attenuates PM2.5-induced lung injury via regulating the pulmonary microbiota and metabolic profiles
Authors: Wu Yongcan , Zuo Biao , Zhou Xin , Zhao Sijing , Pei Caixia , Wang Xiaomin , Wang Yilan , Huang Demei , Shi shihua , Shen Zherui , Wang Jianwei , Wang fei , Wang Zhenxing 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Substantial evidence links PM2.5 to the development of inflammatory lung diseases such as chronic airways, but effective treatments are lacking. Gan-Du-Qing Decoction is a traditional Chinese medicine formula for chronic airway inflammation. However, whether GDQ can ameliorate PM2.5-induced lung injury and its mechanism are unknown and we will further investigate..
Study Design/Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats weighing 120 grams were utilized to establish a rat model of lung injury through systemic exposure to PM2.5. Gan Du Qing (GDQ) was administered via gavage starting four weeks post-exposure. Morphological changes were observed through Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining. Inflammatory cell infiltration was detected using immunohistochemical staining, while scanning electron microscopy was employed to observe ultrastructural changes in the lung trachea. Levels of inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were quantified using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The main components of GDQ were identified through Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). Additionally, a combination of serum metabolomics and 16S gene sequencing of lung microbiota was employed to pinpoint key targets mediating the therapeutic effects of MGMD in the treatment of PM2.5-induced lung injury.
Results: The findings indicated that GDQ had the capability to reduce the pathological changes of lung tissue and mitigate inflammatory exudation in the lungs. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that GDQ effectively reduced the richness and diversity of the pulmonary microbiome induced by PM2.5 and restored the overall structure of the pulmonary microbiome. Metabolomic analysis identified 65 potential differential metabolites that may contribute to GDQ's attenuation of PM2.5-induced lung injury. These metabolites were mainly enriched in the Phospholipase D signaling pathway, Metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, and Glutathione metabolism.
Conclusion: Our research offers valuable insights into how GDQ operates to mitigate PM2.5-induced lung injury through the modulation of lung microbiota and serum metabolome. These findings may have important implications for the development of effective strategies to protect against lung injury caused by PM2.5.
Advanced lithium-sulfur battery leveraging carbonized MoO3/T-CNF Composite Aerogels
Authors: Liu Yane , Zhang Mingang , Jia Shengli , Jiang Yifan , Zhao Qinghua 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery is one of the most promising high energy density energy storage systems due to its high theoretical energy density (2600 W h kg− 1) and specific capacity (1675 mA h g− 1). However, the poor conductivity of elemental sulfur and discharge final products Li2S2/Li2S, and the shuttle effect of lithium polysulfide are still important reasons for the capacity degradation of lithium-sulfur batteries. Herein, we propose to prepare MoO3/T-CNF composite aerogel materials by compounding TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (T-CNF) and molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) nanosheets through ultrasonic dispersion, directional freeze drying and high-temperature carbonization processes. When used as the cathode material for lithium-sulfur batteries, the aerogel material offers high electrical conductivity, a well-developed pore structure, and a large specific surface area. These properties enable it to effectively adsorb polysulfides, suppress their shuttle effect, and alleviate the volume expansion of electrode materials during charge and discharge cycles. Among them, the highest specific discharge capacity of MoO3/T-CNF-3 at 0.1C was 1721.8 mA h g− 1, and the coulombic efficiency of 99.6% can still be maintained after 200 cycle. This demonstrates the benefits of the three-dimensional composite aerogel structure for Li-S battery cathode material applications, suggesting that the structural design of the material can enhance cycle stability while optimizing the specific capacity and multiplicative performance of Li-S batteries.
Inadequate health insurance cover in Germany: People’s characteristics, causes and possible solutions - a mixed methods approach
Authors: Dumke Christian , Kaifie Andrea 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
In the German dual health insurance system, almost 1% of German citizens only have an inadequate insurance cover leading to an impaired medical care. The personals characteristics, the causes of their inadequate cover and the associated health effects are largely unknown, so far. The aim of this study was to obtain a comprehensive overview about those with a limited health insurance cover.
Methods
The study was conducted using a mixed-methods design. Data was used from two private health insurance companies and one statutory health insurance company. In addition, interviews were conducted with experts from clearing centers that supported the return to a full insurance coverage, with the aim of exploring the causes of the current situation, to identify the challenges in trying to regain full insurance coverage and to capture the health effects.
Results
The PHI dataset comprised a total number of n = 14.312 and the SHI data set n = 95.325 persons. In the private health insurance system, the most affected people were male, over 40 years and self-employed, while in the statutory health insurance system, the most affected were young male between 20 and 30 years, employees and overproportionate non-Germans. Socio-economic factors, lack of health literacy, and inadequate knowledge about health insurance resulted in an inadequate insurance cover leading to an exclusion from the healthcare system.
Conclusion
There are particular groups with certain sociodemographic characteristics that are more vulnerable to an inadequate insurance cover. It is therefore important to identify and offer support before an insurance downgrade is carried out. Support from health insurance companies in cooperation with clearing centers and state institutions that provide social benefits is necessary.
The Performance of a Hybrid Asphalt Mixture in Modifying Hot Mix Asphalt Properties
Authors: Sani Wan Noor Hin Mior , Jaya Ramadhansyah Putra , Masri Khairil Azman , Dulaimi Anmar 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Waste materials in asphalt mixtures have garnered significant interest due to environmental concerns and the necessity for sustainable infrastructure. This study evaluated the performance of a waste material-based hybrid asphalt mixture, including palm oil fuel ash (POFA), garnet waste, and sawdust. Numerous physical tests were conducted to examine the hybrid asphalt mixture characteristics, such as penetration, softening point, and viscosity assessments. A Marshall stability and Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) was also performed to assess the stability and rheological characteristic of the mixture. Consequently, the hybrid asphalt mixture demonstrated favourable outcomes in improving the hot mix asphalt characteristics. These findings suggested that the hybrid contents (0% as control, 3%, 6%, and 9%) produced a significant performance impact on the hybrid asphalt mixture. The 6% hybrid asphalt mixture yielded the highest stability, delivering a Marshall stability value of 22.33 kN and suitable ageing resistance of asphalt samples due to the high sensitivity of the binder to the test temperature. Furthermore, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies reported strong adhesion and interaction between the particles in the 6% hybrid asphalt mixture. This study effectively demonstrated that the waste materials (POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust) in the hybrid asphalt mixtures developed enhanced physical and mechanical characteristics. The results also indicated that the hybrid asphalt mixtures exhibited potential durability and performance in improving the longevity and efficacy of hot mix asphalts. Therefore, this study provided evidence of effective and sustainable construction practices in asphalt pavements. Further research on waste components in asphalt mixtures should also be investigated to enhance their overall efficacy.
A graph-based framework of low-energy transfer design
Authors: Oshima Kenta 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Exploring the solution space of low-energy transfer trajectories in the multi-body gravitational environment is a challenging task. The highly nonlinear dynamics and many degrees of freedom of control inputs lead to a vast variety and number of possible solutions. The present paper develops a graph-based framework for computing low-energy transfer trajectories in a multi-objective fashion. Periapsis states obtained from the newly introduced special apsis conditions, with which pivotal dynamical objects in the low-energy regime such as the zero velocity surface and periodic orbits associate, and their connectivity calculated in the fixed-time-of-arrival method represent the graphs. Initial guess solutions are obtained as shortest paths in the graphs that are optimized to minimize the fuel cost. The framework is shown to be effectively applicable to distinct phase-space regions in a unified manner demonstrating its versatility in the complex dynamical environment. The present paper finds new Pareto solutions in the halo-to-halo transfer problem as well as the high-energy excursion technique that enhances the flyby effect in the multi-flyby transfer problem as by-products of the applications.
Antiviral Activity of Probiotics in the Prophylaxis and Treatment of Respiratory Infections Associated with Coronavirus (COVID-19): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Mokadem Slimane Chawki , Naimi Mostefa , Alami Omar 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Probiotics, living microorganisms administered in sufficient quantities, exert beneficial effects on host health. Given the high prevalence of SARS-CoV-2, recent studies suggest potential positive impacts of probiotics on COVID-19 patients.
Methods: A predetermined search strategy encompassing seven databases, NCBI, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer Link, Embase, CNKI, and Cochrane Library Databases, was implemented. Human RCTs were scrutinized independently for data extraction, quality and risk of bias assessment, and statistical analysis. Pooled data, employing the random-effects model, are expressed as standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Assessments of the p value and heterogeneity (I²) were conducted and quantified.
Results: Five studies comprising 282 out of 375 participants were included. The meta-analysis revealed effects on various parameters: CRP level (SMD=0.26 MG/L, 95% CI [0.10, 0.43], p= 0.002, (I²=67%, p=0.03); BMI (SMD=0.28 KG/m², 95% CI [0.07, 0.50], p= 0.01, (I²=67%, p=0.40); T-cell count (SMD=0.09 G/L, 95% CI [-0.07, 0.26], p= 0.26, (I²=0%, p=0.73); Albumin level (SMD=0.28 G/DL, 95% CI [0.04, 0.52], p= 0.02, (I²=7%, p=0.34); IL-6 level (SMD=0.67, 95% CI [0.45, 0.90], p= 0.00001, (I²=94%, p=0.0001)); and LDH level (SMD=0.12 mmol/L, 95% CI [-0.05, 0.30], p= 0.17
Conclusion: This meta-analysis suggested that probiotics had significant positive effects on various measures for treating COVID-19.
Decentralized Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach for Channel Access Optimization
Authors: Cruz Sheila C. da S. J. , de Figueiredo Felipe Augusto Pereira , de Souza Rausley A. A. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The IEEE 802.11 standard’s binary exponential back-off (BEB) algorithm is the prevailing method for tackling the collision avoidance problem. Under the BEB paradigm, the back-off period increases each time a collision occurs, aiming to minimize the likelihood of subsequent collisions. However, this provides sub-optimal results degrading network performance and leading to bandwidth wastage, especially in dynamic dense networks. To overcome these drawbacks, this paper proposes using a decentralized approach with deep reinforcement learning algorithms, namely Deep Q Learning (DQN) and Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG), to optimize the contention window value and maximize throughput while minimizing collisions. Simulations with the NS-3 simulator and NS3-gym toolkit reveal that DQN and DDPG outperform BEB in both static and dynamic scenarios, achieving up to a 37.16% network throughput improvement in dense networks, keeping a high and stable throughput as the number of stations increases.
Suspected Molecular Links in Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma of the Eyelid: A scoping review
Authors: Maurya Rajendra Prakash , Maurya Akhilendra Kumar , Singh Samer , Ali Akhtar , Singh Virendra Pratap , Gupta Sneha , Yadav Akansha , Singh Chandra Bhan , Al-Mujaini Abdullah S. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This review aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of mismatch gene defect, cell cycle dysregulation, and anomalous signaling—including Wnt/β-catenin, hedgehog, and caspase-3/YAP signaling—in relation to the phenotypic presentation of eyelid sebaceous gland carcinoma (SGC) patients. This review also includes in-silico analysis to explore selectively expressed proteins (SEPs) through network-based analysis.
Methods
A thoroughly literature search was performed using PubMed, Google scholar, and Web of Science databases to provide updated knowledge on critical genes and related signaling pathways in SGC pathogenesis by using specific and relevant terms. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed for selected genes with strong evidence from the literature, using STRING 11.0 database and Cytoscape 3.7.1 software.
Results
This review highlights crucial genes and proteins involved in the progression of eyelid SGC. Mismatch repair (MMR) genes are integral to SGC in patients, essential for maintaining genomic integrity. This review also describes mutational analysis, noting that mutations primarily occur in MLH1 and MSH2, followed by MSH6, PMS2 and p53. In patients with SGC, mutations or dysregulation of factors or genes involved in hedgehog, β-catenin, caspase-3/YAP, and C-MYC-AR-p53 signaling are crucial during tumorigenesis. The network-based approach elucidates the roles of essential genes, including MMR genes, and experimentally determines interactions, co-expression, and combined scores. The lowest combined scores were observed for CTNNB1 and SHH. Additionally, the role of immune checkpoint regulators—including PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA—is investigated, revealing that their dysregulation leads to poor cancer cell presentation to immune cells.
Conclusion
We summarize the literature on crucial genes (e.g., MMR genes) and related signaling pathways (e.g., Wnt/β-catenin, hedgehog, and Capspase-3/YAP signaling) in the pathogenesis of eyelid SGC. Eyelid SGC is an aggressive tumor typically associated with MMR gene defects compared to other critical genes involved in tumorigenesis. In-silico analysis provides a better understanding of critical genes expressed in sebaceous glands and their role in SGC pathogenesis. These differentially expressed genes in tumor cells could improve SGC diagnosis and serve as potential targets for drug therapy.
Dilute Acid Hydrolysis for Optimization of Sugar Concentrations Frompennisetum Purpureum: a Conventional Approach
Authors: Ogunsuyi Helen Olayinka , Olu-Egbor Oseyomon Gabriel 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The present study was conducted for the optimization of process variables used for the acid hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass, Pennisteum purpureum (Elephant grass) which is a renewable resource that can be used for the generation of bio-based chemicals. This research used dilute sulphuric acid as a catalyst for hydrolysis of elephant grass. The study was aimed at investigating the viability of elephant grass to generate hexose and pentose sugars which are major feedstock for the production of bio-based chemicals. The process variables such as acid concentration, temperature and contact time were varied and effect of these parameters on the production of sugars (xylose, glucose and arabinose) as well as on the formation of degradation products (furfural and hydroxymethylfurfural) in the hydrolysate (hemicellulosic fraction) were studied. From the preliminary analysis, each portion of the elephant grass had an average value of 38.56% and 16.14% for carbohydrates and hemicellulose contents respectively. The optimum conditions of 0.4 wt % H2SO4, 140 ºC, 180 minutes for acid concentration, temperature and contact time respectively was found. Under these conditions, the hydrolysate contained 5.453 g/L glucose, 2.719 g/L xylose, 1.106 g/L arabinose, 0.02195 g/L furfural and 0.0153 g/L 5-hydroxymethylfurfural.For effective production of sugar from elephant grass biomass high concentration of acid was found not favourable for the hydrolysis of the biomass. The conditions under which the experiment was conducted confirmed the possibility of generating pentose and hexose sugars from elephant grass with the potential of being used as feedstock for producing bio-based chemicals and products.
The Rationale Behind the Design Decisions in an Augmented Reality Mobile eHealth Exergame to Increase Physical Activity for Inactive Older People With Heart Failure
Authors: Berglund Aseel , Klompstra Leonie , Orädd Helena , Fallström Johan , Strömberg Anna , Jaarsma Tiny , Berglund Erik 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Physical activity is important for everyone to maintain and improve health, especially for people with chronic diseases. Mobile exergaming has the potential to increase physical activity and to specifically reach people with poor activity levels. However, commercial mobile exergames are not specially designed for older people with chronic illnesses such as heart failure. The primary aim of this viewpoint is to describe the underlying reasoning guiding the design choices made in developing a mobile exergame, Heart Farming, tailored specifically for sedentary older people diagnosed with heart failure. The goal of the exergame is to increase physical activity levels by increasing the daily walking duration of patients with heart failure by at least 10 minutes. The rationale guiding the design decisions of the mobile exergame is grounded in the thoughtful integration of gamification strategies tailored for application in cardiovascular care. This integration is achieved through applying gamification components, gamification elements, and gamification principles. The Heart Farming mobile exergame is about helping a farmer take care of and expand a virtual farm, with these activities taking place while the patient walks in the real world. The exergame can be adapted to individual preferences and physical condition regarding where, how, when, and how much to play and walk. The exergame is developed using augmented reality so it can be played both indoors and outdoors. Augmented reality technology is used to track the patients’ movement in the real world and to interpret that movement into events in the exergame rather than to augment the mobile user interface.
Current Use and Discrepancies in the Adoption of Health-Related Internet of Things and Apps Among Working Women in Japan: Large-Scale, Internet-Based, Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Sasayama Kiriko , Nishimura Etsuko , Yamaji Noyuri , Ota Erika , Tachimori Hisateru , Igarashi Ataru , Arata Naoko , Yoneoka Daisuke , Saito Eiko 
Published: June 2024

Background
Demographic changes and a low birth rate have led to a workforce shortage in Japan. To address this issue, the government has promoted engagement of female employment. However, increased female employment can impact women's health. Using Internet of Things (IoT) and apps to manage women's health has gained attention, but few studies have focused on working women.

Objective
This study aimed to clarify the current situation of working women and their use of IoT or apps to manage their health.

Methods
A large-scale, nationwide internet survey was conducted among 10,000 female participants aged from 20 years to 64 years in Japan. Participants were recruited from a marketing research company’s active survey panel of 5.24 million members. The survey included questions about health status, sociodemographic factors, psychological characteristics, and the use of IoT or apps for health management. We compared perceived health status and reasons for current IoT use using t tests and assessed participant characteristics that predicted IoT use using the C5.0 decision tree algorithm. Ethical approval was granted by St. Luke's International University.

Results
Among participants, 14.6% (1455/10,000) currently used IoT or apps, 7% (695/10,000) used them previously, and 78.5% (7850/10,000) had never used them. Current users (42.7 years old) were older than past users (39.7 years old). Discrepancies were observed between participants’ perceived health problems and the purpose for using IoT or apps, with 21.3% (2130/10,000) of all women reporting they experienced menstrual symptoms or disorders but only 3.5% (347/10,000) used IoT or apps to manage the same symptom. On the other hand, current users were more likely to use IoT or apps to manage nutrition-related problems such as underweight or obesity (405/1455, 27.8%). Device use was highest among current users, with 87.3% (1270/1455) using smartphones, 19.7% (287/1455) using smartwatches, and 13.3% (194/1455) using PCs. Decision tree analysis identified 6 clusters, the largest consisting of 81.6% (5323/6523) of non-IoT users who did not exercise regularly, while pregnant women were more likely to use IoT or apps.

Conclusions
Our findings highlight the idea that woman with particular health problems (ie, menstrual symptoms or disorders and premenstrual syndrome) have lower use of IoT or apps, suggesting an unmet need for IoT and apps in specific areas.
Multidisciplinary Design–Based Multimodal Virtual Reality Simulation in Nursing Education: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Yeo Ji-Young , Nam Hyeongil , Park Jong-Il , Han Soo-Yeon 
Published: June 2024

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity for innovative educational methods in nursing. Our study takes a unique approach using a multidisciplinary simulation design, which offers a systematic and comprehensive strategy for developing virtual reality (VR) simulations in nursing education.

Objective
The aim of this study is to develop VR simulation content for a pediatric nursing module based on a multidisciplinary simulation design and to evaluate its feasibility for nursing education.

Methods
This study used a 1-group, posttest-only design. VR content for pediatric nursing practice was developed by integrating the technological characteristics of a multimodal VR system with the learning elements of traditional nursing simulation, combining various disciplines, including education, engineering, and nursing. A user test was conducted with 12 nursing graduates (preservice nurses) followed by post hoc surveys (assessing presence, VR systems, VR sickness, and simulation satisfaction) and in-depth, one-on-one interviews.

Results
User tests showed mean scores of 4.01 (SD 1.43) for presence, 4.91 (SD 0.81) for the VR system, 0.64 (SD 0.35) for VR sickness, and 5.00 (SD 1.00) for simulation satisfaction. In-depth interviews revealed that the main strengths of the immersive VR simulation for pediatric pneumonia nursing were effective visualization and direct experience through hands-on manipulation; the drawback was keyword-based voice interaction. To improve VR simulation quality, participants suggested increasing the number of nursing techniques and refining them in more detail.

Conclusions
This VR simulation content for a pediatric nursing practice using a multidisciplinary educational design model was confirmed to have positive educational potential. Further research is needed to confirm the specific learning effects of immersive nursing content based on multidisciplinary design models.