bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mediators profile in COVID-19 convalescence: an approach in individuals from amazon
Authors: Silva-Junior Alexander Leonardo , Oliveira Lucas Silva , Dias Stephanny , Costa Thaina Cristina Cardoso , Xabregas Lilyane Amorim , Alves-Hanna Fabiola Silva , Abrahim Cláudia Maria Moura , Neves Walter Luiz Lima , Crispim Myuki Alfaia Esashika , Toro Diana Mota , Silva-Neto Pedro Vieira , Aponte Danielle Costa Marques , Oliveira Tatiana Campos , Silva Maria Carmo Costa , Matos Miharu Maguinoria Matsuura , Carvalho Maria Socorro Sampaio , Tarrago Andrea Monteiro , Fraiji Nelson Abrahim , Faccioli Lúcia Helena , Sorgi Carlos Artério , Sabino Ester Cerdeira , Teixeira-Carvalho Andrea , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis , Costa Allyson Guimarães , Malheiro Adriana 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

COVID-19 caused the pandemic situation experienced since the beginning of 2020, and many countries faced the rapid spread and severe. Mechanisms of interaction between the virus and the host were observed during acute phase, but few data are available when related to immunity dynamics in convalescents. We conducted a cross-sectional study, with 51 healthy donors and 62 COVID-19 convalescent patients, which these had a two-month follow-up after symptoms recovery. Venous blood sample was obtained from all participants to measure blood count, subpopulations of monocytes, lymphocytes, natural killer cells and dendritic cells. Serum was used to measure cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, anti-N IgG and anti-S IgG/IgM antibodies. Less than 35% of convalescents were anti-S IgM+, while more than 80% were IgG+ in D30. Anti-N IgG decreased along time, with loss of seroreactivity of 13%. Eosinophil count played a distinct role on both antibodies during all study, and the convalescence was orchestrated by higher neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and IL-15, but initial stages were marked by increase in myeloid DCs, B1 lymphocytes, inflammatory and patrolling monocytes, G-CSF, IL-2 and IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio. Later convalescence seemed to change to cytotoxicity mediated by T lymphocytes, plasmacytoid DCs, VEGF, IL-9 and CXCL10. Anti-S IgG antibodies showed the longest perseverance and may be a better option for diagnosis. The inflammatory pattern is yet present on initial stage of convalescence, but quickly shifts to a reparative dynamic. Meanwhile eosinophils played a key factor on anti-N production in convalescence. We must highlight the importance of immunological markers on acute clinical outcomes, but their comprehension to potentialize adaptive system must be explored to improve immunizations and further preventive policies.
A Novel Acoustic Micro-Perforated Panel (MPP) Based on sugar cane fibers and bagasse
Authors: Beheshti Mohammad Hosein , Jafarizaveh Mostafa , tabrizi akram 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Natural materials are becoming a reliable alternative to traditional artificial materials used in sound absorption insulation OBJECTIVE: The present study was conducted to investigate the acoustic insulation of Micro-Perforated Panel (MPP) Based on sugar cane fibers and bagasse as an available, and environmentally friendly material. METHOD: absorption properties of single and double-leaf natural Micro-Perforated Panels (MPP) made of bagasse and also non-natural MPPs made of Plexiglass were measured using an impedance tube based on ISO 10534-2. Then the effect of bagasse and sugar cane fibers composite on the Air gap of MPP was investigated.
RESULT: The results showed the peak of the sound absorption of the bagasse composite is in the range of 1000 to 2000 Hz, and the sugarcane fiber composite has a higher sound absorption coefficient than the bagasse composite. Also, natural MPPs have a higher absorption coefficient than non-natural MPPs at all frequencies, and as the panel thickness increases, the peak absorption coefficient shifts to lower frequencies. The peak of the sound absorption coefficient of double-leaf MPPs made of bagasse is 76%, in the range of 160 to 200 Hz. Using sugarcane fiber composite in the Air Gap of single and double-leaf natural MPPs causes the absorption peak to shift to frequencies below 100 Hz.
CONCLUSION: According to the results, natural MPPs have a high sound absorption coefficient at low frequencies. These panels can control sounds with much lower frequencies, especially in a double layer and along with cane fiber composite in their Air Gap.
Efficient Synaptic Emulation and Ultralow Power Digital-Analog Conversion in Cellulose-Based Neural Devices through Molecular Polarization
Authors: Chang Kuan-Chang , Xu Yihua , Wang Mingge , Peng Zehui , Hsieh Dar-Jen , Li Lei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Efficient hardware-cell communication is crucial in understanding cellular states and controlling cells, serving as a crucial pathway in advancing next-generation human-machine interfaces. Here, we propose an energy-efficient neural device based on natural cellulose, addressing limitations in conventional interface communication hardware, particularly concerning material biocompatibility and biological signal matching. The cellulose-based device effectively emulates the plasticity of biological synaptic connection and exhibits learning behavior under continuous pulse stimuli as low as 10 mV. Significantly, it demonstrates exceptional digital-to-analog conversion performance with a minimal power consumption of 0.1 nJ, facilitating efficient interface biological signal matching. Furthermore, a molecular-level model is introduced to elucidate the rotation of intramolecular polar bonds in cellulose induced by electrical stimulation. This rotation alters the material's relative dielectric constant, unveiling the digital-to-analog conversion ability and neuro-like behavior. Moreover, the transparent cellulose thin film serves as both a dielectric layer and mechanical support, enabling the device to maintain functional stability under various curvatures. The flexible and biocompatible cellulose-based neural device in this work not only efficiently emulates synapses but also, with its low-power signal conversion, holds promise for effective biological signal matching in brain-machine interface applications.
Growth hormone treatment response: associated factors and stimulated growth hormone secretion indices in prepubertal children with idiopathic GH deficiency
Authors: Giannakopoulos Aristeidis , Kallimani Eleni , Efthymiadou Alexandra , Chrysis Dionisios 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose The aim of this study is to correlate the growth response in prepubertal children with idiopathic growth hormone (GH) deficiency after one year of treatment with growth hormone to the initial clinical and biochemical parameters. It also aims to study the secretory dynamics of GH by analyzing the profiles of GH stimulation tests in relation to the recombinant GH (rhGH) treatment response.Methods This a retrospective study which included 84 prepubertal children (47 males and 37 females) with a definitive diagnosis of GH deficiency. The GH secretory indexes GHmax, GH secretion rate (GHSR) and GH secretion volume (GHSV) were analyzed in relation to the response to rhGH treatment as defined by the index of responsiveness (IoR). Correlation and regression models were used to identify the best clinical and biochemical predictors to rhGH treatment.Results IoR was correlated negatively with the age (r=-0.607, p < 0.01) and positively with the distance of child’s height from its MPH r = 0.466 (p < 0.01) and pretreatment growth velocity (r = 0.247, p < 0.05). GH secretory indexes correlated together, with the highest association being observed between GHmax and GHSV (r = 0.883, p < 0.01). Regarding the GH secretory indexes, GHmax was the best predictor of IoR (β coef. = -0.514, p < 0.001) followed by the GHSV (β coef. = -0.47, p < 0.001) and GHSR (β coef. = -0.367 p < 0.001).Conclusions The age and the distance of child’s height from its MPH are major predictors of rhGH treatment response in children with idiopathic GH deficiency. The calculation of the other GH secretory indexes GHSR and GHSV are not better predictors of response to rhGH than GHmax. The combination of clinical and biochemical indexes may improve the pretreatment assessment of response to rhGH treatment.
Molecular similarities between the genes for Trypanosoma cruzi microtubule associated proteins, mammalian interferons, and TRIMs
Authors: Winkler Martin A. , Pan Alfred A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Initial studies using bioinformatics analysis revealed DNA sequence similarities between Trypanosoma cruzi GenBank M21331, coding for Antigen 36 (Ag 36), and Tripartite Motif (TRIM) genes. TRIM40 showed 9.7% identity to GenBank® M21331 and four additional TRIM genes had identities greater than 5.0%. TRIM37 showed a continuous stretch of identity of 12 nucleotides, that is at least 25% longer than any of the other TRIMs. When we extended our analysis on the relationships of GenBank M21331 to further innate immune genes, using the Needleman-Wunsch (NW) algorithm for alignment, identities to human IFN-α, IFN-β, and IFN-γ genes of 13.6%, 12.6%, and 17.9%, respectively, were found. To determine the minimum number of genes coding for proteins closely related to Ag 36, a BLAST-p search was conducted with it versus the T. cruzi genome. The BLAST-p search revealed that T. cruzi GenBank M21331 had 14 genes sequences homologous to Microtubule Associated Protein (MAP) genes with 100% amino acid sequence identity. To verify the similarities in non-human genes, a study comparing TRIM21 region sequences among mammalian species to the comparable human TRIM21 region showed that related sequences were also present in 11 mammalian species. The MAP genes homologous to Ag 36 form a family of at least 14 genes which mimic human immune genes in the IFN and TRIM families. This mimicry is of gene sequences, and not their protein products or epitopes. These results appear to be the first description of molecular mimicry of immune genes in humans by a protozoan parasite.
Comparison of intra-ovarian metabolic environment between women with or without PCOS undergoing in vitro fertilization
Authors: Gervais Alexandre , Ostinelli Giada , Faubert Joanie , Battista Marie-Claude , Carranza-Mamane Belina , Lavoie Hélène B. , Baillargeon Jean-Patrice 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Context: Evidence suggest that lipotoxicity can cause hyperandrogenesis, the main feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but little is known about the intra-ovarian environment of women with PCOS and whether it displays features associated with lipotoxicity. Here we present a secondary analysis of data collected in a cross-sectional study aimed at evaluating the associations between follicular fluid androgen levels and markers of dysmetabolism in women seeking in vitro fertilization.
Objective: To compare follicular fluid concentrations of testosterone, markers of lipid, lipid metabolism and inflammation between women with PCOS and without PCOS.
Design: Controlled cross-sectional study.
Setting: A private fertility clinic and one academic centre.
Patients: Eighty (80) participants were recruited during one of their scheduled visits for an in vitro fertilization procedure. Medical records were used to determine PCOS diagnosis: 13 women were identified as having PCOS, while 58 had a negative diagnosis of PCOS, and 9 had an uncertain diagnostic. Patients were eligible if they were between 18 and 40 years old with a body mass index raging between 18 and 40 kg/m2.
Exposure(s): Participants were defined as affected by PCOS or not.
Main Outcome Measure(s): Follicular fluid retrieved at the time of oocyte aspiration was analysed for total testosterone, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), triglycerides, NEFA metabolites (acylcarnitines and C16/C13 ratio as a marker of ineffective NEFA beta-oxidation) and inflammatory cytokines.
Results: When compared to women without PCOS, women with PCOS had increased follicular fluid levels of testosterone (by definition; 12.9 nM vs 0.29 nM; P<0.001), NEFA (0.27 nM vs 0.24 nM; P=0.051), triglycerides (0.30 nM vs 0.16 nM; P<0.001), acylcarnitines C16/C3 ratio (34.9 % vs 25.8 %; P=0.013), IL-6 (13.0 pg/mL vs 8.6 pg/mL; P=0.02), while TNF-α remained similar (2.22 pg/mL vs 2.11 pg/mL; P=0.78). These differences remained statistically different after adjustment for BMI, except for IL-6. These group differences were also confirmed in paired analyses of 13 BMI-matched pairs of PCOS vs non-PCOS women, except for C16/C3 ratio and IL-6.
Conclusion: These results suggest a role for intra-ovarian inflammation, but more importantly, lipid overexposure and ineffective lipid oxidation, in the pathogenesis of PCOS, probably through lipotoxic effects.
Effect of Scanning Strategy on the Microstructure and Load-Bearing Characteristics of Additive Manufactured Parts
Authors: Jose S Silva Sajin , Mishra Santosh Kr. , Upadhyay Ram Krishna 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this work, 316L steel is used to fabricate additive manufactured parts using three scanning strategies - continuous, alternate, and island. The scanning strategy is selected based on the grain orientation and compaction support provided to the material under stress. The load-bearing capacity is evaluated by measuring frictional and wear properties. The wear patch track is examined to establish the surface interface's physical mechanism, which is responsible for the smooth transition in response to the applied load. The grain orientation for the different strategies is compared using EBSD maps. Also, the effect of surface roughness on the sliding behavior of scanning strategies is evaluated. The island scanning strategy is considered better for load-bearing applications, considering the grain orientation and hardness of additive manufactured parts.
Nutrient and Particulate Matter Sedimentation Rates in Penaeus Vannamei Cultures With Different Stocking Densities
Authors: Oliveira Camila Tâmires Alves , Barreto Maurilio Kaique , Henry-Silva Gustavo Gonzaga 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This study evaluated the sedimentation rates of nutrients and particulate matter from monocultures of Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, with different stocking densities in a semi-arid tropical region. The crops analyzed were C6: initial density of 6 shrimp.m− 2; C20: 20 shrimp.m− 2; and C50: 50 shrimp.m− 2. Two collections of sedimented material were conducted with the aid of sedimentation chambers, which took place in the period before cultivation (BC) and the other, at the end of cultivation (EC). The sedimentation rates of particulate matter and organic material in C6 and C50 in the EC period were significantly higher than values in the BC. The sedimentation rates of inorganic matter were significantly higher at the end of the three cultivations, contrary to what was observed for nitrogen and total phosphorus. C50 – EC had higher values of particulate matter, total phosphorus, organic and inorganic matter. We can conclude that although the cultivation time of C50 (64 days) was shorter than that of C6 (80) and C20 (99 days), it presented the highest values regarding sedimentation rates, possibly due to the high supply of feed in the cultivation of higher stocking density and, consequently, greater production of excrement and feed waste.
KMT2A facilitates the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and the progression of ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhu Yuan , Tang Ranran , Jiang Shenyuan , Chen Haiyan , Jia Genmei , Miao Juan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays critical roles in cancer progression and metastasis. Thus, the exploration of the molecular mechanism regulating EMT would provide potential opportunities for the therapy of metastatic ovarian cancer (OC). Herein, we investigated the putative role of KMT2A in modulating EMT and metastasis in OC.
Methods The expression of KMT2A in OC was detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry and its relationship with clinicopathological factors was analyzed. The effect of KMT2A on the biological behavior of OC cells was examined. Moreover, the expressions of EMT-associated proteins were detected in vivo and vitro by western blot, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry.
Results KMT2A was highly expressed in OC cell lines and tissues and was positively correlated with advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics(FIGO) stage, pathological grade and metastasis. KMT2A overexpression was correlated with poor prognosis. Suppression of KMT2A inhibited OC cells proliferation, migration, invasion and induced their apoptosis in vitro and vivo. In contrast, the ectopic expression of KMT2A had the opposite effects. Furthermore, KMT2A knockdown inhibited TGF-β-induced EMT in OC and reduced the phosphorylation levels of Smad2.
Conclusion Taken together, these observations demonstrate that KMT2A could promote the malignant behavior of OC by activating TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and may be a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for OC.
The causal relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease and constipation: a study utilizing bidirectional mendelian randomization combined with meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Xingxing , Che Xiangming 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background Observational studies have revealed a correlation between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and constipation; however, such findings do not inherently establish causality. Comprehensive and detailed research is essential for ascertaining the direct causal links between these conditions.
Methods In this study, we integrated bidirectional two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) with meta-analysis to investigate the causal relationship between GERD and constipation. Pleiotropy assessments were conducted and the MR-PRESSO technique was applied to outlier data complemented by heterogeneity tests to enhance analytical precision. Leveraging data from various databases, we performed two rounds of MR analysis employing inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger regression, and the weighted median method. The choice between the IVW random effects and fixed effects models was determined by the data heterogeneity. Critical IVW results were further subjected to meta-analysis to validate their reliability and broad applicability. Additionally, a reverse Mendelian randomization analysis was performed. This comprehensive methodology enables detailed examination of the causal link, laying the foundation for future clinical research and intervention strategies.
Results We used the FinnGen R10 and GWAS catalog datasets to explore the causal link between GERD and constipation via MR analysis. Initially, with GERD as the exposure and constipation as the outcome, the FinnGen dataset revealed a positive correlation, as evidenced by an IVW Odds Ratio (OR) of 1.18 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.11-1.26, p=3.15×10-7). Similarly, the GWAS catalog data affirmed a positive association, with an IVW OR of 1.56 (95% CI: 1.33-1.85, p=1.27×10-7). A subsequent meta-analysis corroborated this positive correlation (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.02-1.77, p = 0.035). Moreover, a reverse causation analysis, considering GERD as the outcome and constipation as the exposure, further indicated a positive correlation (OR=1.08, 95% CI=1.03-1.12, p=7.21×10-4).
Conclusion Our study demonstrated that GERD and constipation are mutual risk factors and exhibit a bidirectional causal relationship, with exposure to GERD having a more substantial effect than constipation. These findings provide valuable insights for further studies on the biological mechanisms and clinical treatments.
Design and Implementation of an Advanced Home Automation System using WiFi Technology
Authors: Gavsane Sourabh , Kolhe Sujata 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Design and Implementation of an Advanced Home Automation System using Wi-Fi Technology. A system of remote monitoring and self auto controlling are very much necessary. Smart home appliances are one the beneficiary of system equipped with home appliances which we wish to control smartly from anywhere. Machine-to-Machine and Man-to-Machine are the basic communication platforms that enable home appliances to communicate with each other to be more efficiently operated. According to the experimental results, the impact of wireless interference on the proposed smart home control network is substantially mitigated. Additionally, a smart control algorithm for lighting systems and an analysis of the illumination of lighting is present. The energy saving of lighting systems relative to those without smart control is evaluating. Numerical results indicate that the electricity consumption on a sunny or cloudy day can be reduced by at least 40% under the smart control. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the smart home automation network communication protocols that are used to enable bidirectional communication between the home owners, utilities and smart home appliances. Moreover, a prototype for the proposed smart home control network with the smart control algorithm is implemented.
Factors influencing medication adherence among hypertensive patients: A qualitative study
Authors: Nfor Joyce , Warri Denis 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Medication non-adherence is a significant challenge in managing chronic diseases like hypertension. It often results in poor health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Therefore, understanding patients' perspectives on barriers to adherence is vital in developing realistic interventions to promote medication adherence in hypertension and similar chronic diseases.
Aim: This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to explore the experiences and barriers to adherence among hypertensive patients at the Bamenda Regional Hospital in Cameroon.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion were conducted with 10 hypertensive patients aged 30 years and above, having difficulties adhering to their treatment plan. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed by thematic analysis using NVivo software.
Results: Several key factors hindering adherence were identified from the themes including limited knowledge and awareness about hypertension and its treatment, negative attitudes and perceptions towards hypertension management, socioeconomic constraints limiting access to care, lack of social support, and poor patient-provider relationships. The study revealed a predominance of the biomedical model of care which often neglected patients' psychosocial needs.
Conclusion: Addressing the barriers to adherence in hypertension patients demands a patient-centred approach to care. Such an approach must combine interventions for patient education and socioeconomic support. Social support systems, family involvement in care, and proper improved patient-provider collaboration also hold the potential to improve adherence.
Recommendations: Based on the findings, this study recommends the implementation of targeted interventions such as patient education, socioeconomic support systems, family involvement in care, and training of care providers on patient-provider collaboration. Adopting a biopsychosocial care model is also crucial for promoting adherence.