bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Niche-adjacent Type IV collagen promotes GLP-1/Notch receptor activation in the C. elegans germline
Authors: Narbonne Patrick , Martel Pier-Olivier , Degrémont Julia , Turmel-Couture Sarah , Dologuele Eden , Beaulieu Lucie , Clouet Alexandre 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Basement membranes are thin and dense proteinaceous layers of specialized extracellular matrix that surround tissues to maintain their structure and function1. With age, chronic inflammation typically stiffens this basement membrane in a phenomenon called fibrosis, the progression of which is reflected by increasing levels of the basement membrane’s main component, type IV collagen (COL IV)2,3. Tissue fibrosis and elevated Notch signaling are two co-occurring hallmarks of many inflammation-linked diseases, including cancer3-6. Many reasoned that fibrosis may be a consequence of elevated Notch signaling, a belief that has led to Notch targeting antifibrotic therapy attempts7,8,9. Yet, the in vivo relationship between Notch activity and fibrosis has not been clearly defined. Here, we show that EMB-9/COL IV accumulation adjacent to the C. elegans germline stem cell niche promotes GLP-1/Notch receptor activation in germline stem cells. Increased Notch activity is therefore a consequence of high basement membrane COL IV contents. Moreover, we find that reducing GLP-1/Notch activity in vivo leads to a generalized dramatic increase in EMB-9/COL IV levels, and thereby promotes fibrosis. The generalized fibrosis that comes along with inflammaging may therefore act as a root cause for cancer by promoting Notch signaling, and perhaps more widely, many other ligand-receptor interactions.
A systematic map of machine learning in urban climate change mitigation
Authors: Hintz Marie Josefine , Milojevic-Dupont Nikola , Creutzig Felix , Kaack Lynn 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

To tackle the climate crisis, cities must reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions rapidly. To aid these efforts, many cities are
interested in leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML). Researchers and practitioners, however, only begin to understand how ML can contribute to achieving climate targets in urban contexts. To provide an overview of application areas, and the potential leverage of ML to reduce GHG emissions, we systematically map research conducted over the past three
decades. We identify 1,206 relevant peer-reviewed records, and discover that research involving ML is expanding more rapidly
than the literature on urban climate mitigation more broadly. The research focus largely aligns with urban mitigation options
that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change assessed as having high impact. We also find that research concentrates
on the ML-strong regions Eastern Asia, Europe, and Northern America. This regional focus can influence research agendas,
and we observed signs that this can lead to bias regarding which ML applications are pursued in urban climate action.
Indirect electrochemical titration of sulfur impurities in industrial phosphoric acid
Authors: HAMID Fatima Ezzahra , Oubaouz Mohamed , Haddouchy Hassan , Oukbab Mustapha , Loughmari Saliha , Tahiri Youness , Elqouatli Salah Eddine , Chtaini Abdelilah , Erradi Elmostafa 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This article explores the corrosion aspects of L316 stainless steel in an environment composed of phosphoric acid extracted from natural phosphates from Morocco, in the presence of sulfate ions. L316 stainless steel is widely used in various industries, but its behavior in the presence of phosphoric acid and sulfate ions has attracted growing interest. The study was carried out using experimental techniques such as electrochemical tests like cyclic voltametry (VC), impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Taffel curves (VL), surface analysis, and weight loss measurements. The results indicate that the presence of sulfate ions has a significant impact on the corrosion rate of L316 steel in the extracted phosphoric acid medium. Specific corrosion mechanisms were proposed and discussed on the basis of the experimental observations.
Society-based Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines after COVID-19: A Delphi Study.
Authors: Al-Hadid Lourance , Alnawafleh Ahmed , Alfarajat Loai , Barmawi Marwa Al 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Current infection prevention and control guidelines, protocols, and practices for public, outside healthcare facilities are not adequate by evidence of increasing rates of infections and outbreaks. This study proposed to formulate a consensus on the guidelines that would then govern future public health-related infection prevention and control practices.
Methods
A three-round Delphi technique to generate experts’ consensus on the development and required modifications of the current IPC guidelines to address public safety. Eighteen infection prevention and control practitioners and experts interviewed individually during the three rounds.
Results
Three themes identified during the first round. First, policies and regulations. Second, curricula reforms and education for all levels (such as kindergartens, schoolers, and the public). Third; content of IPC public manual. Results from Round I, II, and III changed a few subcategories until experts agreed on the themes and the subthemes. It is required that one department be responsible for providing IPC and the needed training of employees and public individuals in non-healthcare institutes.
Conclusion
It’s important to have one reference that provides IPC-related consultations to all, including the promotion of proper implementation of IPC guidelines as required by each industry. This includes unification of the assessment, evaluation, and follow-up of IPC issues in industries other than health facilities that involve human well-being.
Causality between alcohol consumption and schizophrenia: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Song , Liu Xuzhen , Han Yong , Su Xi , Lv Luxian , Yang Yongfeng 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Observational studies have revealed an association between alcohol consumption and schizophrenia (SZ), and have identified high alcohol consumption as an independent risk factor for SZ. However, due to the limitations of observational studies, the causal relationship between SZ and alcohol consumption is unknown. This study used two-way Mendelian randomization (MR) to determine the causal relationship between alcohol consumption phenotype (drinks consumed per week, DPW) and SZ risk.
Methods: We conducted bidirectional MR analysis using the aggregate statistical data of a European individual genome-wide association study (GWAS). Causality was evaluated using the inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, and weighted median methods. We also used the MR-Egger intercept to detect horizontal multiplicity, and conducted sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness of the results.
Results: High DPW did not increase the risk of SZ according to IVW, MR-Egger, and weighted median methods using 78 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the GWAS database. Similarly, MR-Egger analysis with 123 SNPs revealed no causal effect of SZ on DPW (OR = 1.00, 95% Cl: 0.95–1.04, p = 0.92). However, both IVW and weighted median methods (n=123 SNPs) indicated that SZ increased DPW (OR = 1.01, 95% Cl: 1.00–1.02; p = 0.01 and p = 8.78 × 10-3, respectively). Further, MR-Egger regression showed that directional multiplicity did not bias the MR results (intercept = 9.70 × 10-4, p = 0.52), while leave-one-out sensitivity analysis indicated that no single SNP significantly influenced the association.
Conclusions: This MR study suggests that the genetic factors associated with SZ also increase the risk of excessive alcohol consumption. Interventions for reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption may improve the clinical management of SZ.
Using Digital Technologies to Promote Nursing Students' Learning in the Connected Classroom
Authors: Aljanabi Hameeda Matooq , Belal Safia , Breboneria Benjamin Joel , Alrajeh Ahmed Ben Mansur , Ghaly Asmaa Saber , Aljaber Nadia Yasein 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

BackgroundDigital technologies are becoming increasingly important in nursing education, and their impact on student learning must be explored. Technology improves nursing education and prepares students for the constantly changing healthcare business.AimThe study aims to explore the potential use of digital technologies in promoting nursing student engagement, and improving learning outcomes.DesignA mixed method of quasi-experimental design and narrative input design, were used to achieve the study aim and objectives.SampleA convenient sampling was used to collect all available student nurses who were in the six-level of undergraduate nursing program.Data CollectionA Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, and qualitative data was summarized using coded and categorized inputs.ResultThe Word wall game, Padlet platform, and student feedback on digital technologies were positive.ConclusionThese tools were perceived as helpful, effective, and beneficial for enhancing the learning processes and experience, increasing motivation, and facilitating communication and collaboration.
Effect of preoperative cancer cachexia on postoperative sarcopenia in patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Shirado Kengo , Okuno Shota , Kawamitsu Kenta , Kido Takashi , Eto Takako , Yasuda Manabu , Yamashita Toshihiro 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Many patients with lung cancer have cancer cachexia, which may result in complications and affect prognosis; however, its preoperative prevalence is unknown. Skeletal muscle mass loss after lung cancer surgery also affects prognosis. Although cachexia and sarcopenia share some similarities, whether preoperative cachexia affects postoperative sarcopenia is still unknown. Thus, we designed a cohort study of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to investigate this.
Methods
Patients with NSCLC who underwent surgery and perioperative rehabilitation were included in this study. The prevalence of preoperative cachexia and association between preoperative cachexia and sarcopenia 1 month after surgery were tested using propensity-score matching. After matching, the regression analysis was performed to investigate whether preoperative cachexia was independently related to sarcopenia 1 month postoperatively.
Results
In total, 126 patients (73 men) aged 71 (67, 76) years were included in the study. Preoperative cachexia was present in 16 (12.7%) patients, and postoperative sarcopenia was present in 29 (23%) patients. Among the 126 patients, 16 and 32 patients were included in the preoperative cachexia and control groups, respectively, as a result of matching (standardized mean difference < 0.1). After matching, regression analysis showed that preoperative cachexia was independently associated with sarcopenia at 1 month postoperatively (Odd: 1.46, p = 0.020).
Conclusions
Among the patients with NSCLC, 12.7% had preoperative cachexia. Preoperative cachexia in patients with NSCLC affected sarcopenia 1 month postoperatively.
MADS-box transcription factors in durian (Durio zibethinus): genome-wide analysis and DzAGL6-1’s role in carotenoid biosynthesis
Authors: Tantisuwanichkul Kittiya , Komaki Shinichiro , Watanabe Mutsumi , Tohge Takayuki , Sirikantaramas Supaart 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

MADS-box transcription factors play a crucial role in regulating plant biological processes, including fruit ripening and associated events. This study aimed to understand the mechanisms involved in durian fruit ripening and carotenoid production by conducting a genome-wide analysis of MADS-box proteins in durian (Durio zibethinus L.), an economically important fruit in Southeast Asia. A total of 119 durian MADS-box proteins were identified from the genome of the ‘Musang King’ cultivar. Phylogenetic analysis classified these proteins into types I and II, displaying a similar conserved motif composition. Notably, only 16 durian MADS-box genes exhibited fruit-specific expression patterns. Among these, DzAGL6-1 was predominantly expressed during fruit development, the stage at which carotenoid biosynthesis is activated. Transient expression of DzAGL6-1 in tomato fruit increased the transcript level of the carotenoid biosynthetic gene phytoene synthase (PSY) and β-carotene content. Furthermore, DzAGL6-1 was found to directly bind to the promoter of DzPSY, as demonstrated by a dual-luciferase assay. These findings provide insights into the role of MADS-box transcription factors in regulating carotenoid accumulation during durian fruit development.
Experimental validation of a neuro-fuzzy controlled mobile manipulator for the inspection of automobile exhaust system
Authors: Gaber Amr Nasr A. E. , Eldrainy Yehia A. , Awad Taher H. , Kassem Ahmed 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study establishes a new strategy to locate the coordinates of a crack in an automobile exhaust system using a 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) mobile robot manipulator, utilizing a fuzzy control model and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The fuzzy position control model was applied as an alternative to traditional inverse kinematics approaches, and an ANN was used to correct the position of the robot based on a manipulator workspace. A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) sensor was mounted on the base of the mobile robot to detect exhaust gas leakage. Several uncertain manipulator parameters affect precision and performance. These parameters are created from the tolerances and variations in the actuators and controls for production and assembly. To ensure manipulator end-effector location, a fuzzy control model with an Internet Protocol (IP) camera-based observational error model is applied to compensate for the robot parameter errors and improve the location accuracy of the robot manipulator. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control model, a simulation was implemented during the uncertainty in the robot link length. 6 DOF mobile robot manipulator was equipped at a low cost to help in the experimental validation to establish the robustness of the proposed controller in real-world applications.
Neuro-Developmental Trajectories of Preterm babies: A Cohort Study inJaffna district of Sri Lanka
Authors: Sathees Sasrubi , Sathiadas Manoji Gitanjali , Surenthirakumaran Rajendra , Arasaratnam Vasanthy 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Preterm babies are more likely to develop cognitive, language, and motor deficits.
Aim
To analyse the neuro-developmental attainments of the babies followed up to 18 months and to identify selected risk factors contributing to the neurodevelopmental delay.
Method
An institution-based cohort study was carried out among 167 babies born at 28+ 1 to 36+ 6 weeks gestation at Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Neuro-development assessment was carried out using the Bayley Infant and Toddler III assessments at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months of their corrected age of prematurity.
Results
Trends of composite score of the cognitive domain increased from 3 to 6 months and continued to decrease till 18 months (p < 0.001), and language domain increased from 3 to 6 months and decreased at 12 months, and increased at 18 months (p = 0.529), while motor domain increased from 3 to 6 months, and continued to increase till 18 months (p < 0.001). Significant neuro-developmental delay was identified in 11 babies (6.6%). The risk factors considered for neurodevelopmental delay were children of employed mothers (OR: 1.354), born at very preterm (OR:1.460), treated for short-term complications (OR:2.337), admitted to NICU (OR:2.653), stayed at hospital for > 2weeks (OR:1.317), discharged from hospital with complications related to prematurity (OR:2.857) and re-hospitalized within 18 months (OR: 7.664).
Conclusion
Short-term complications influenced the neurodevelopment of preterm babies. Deterioration of cognitive composite scores highlights the need for cognitive stimulation of preterm infants.
Epidemiological analysis of human adenovirus in children diagnosed with acute respiratory tract infection.
Authors: abdullahi Khalid mohamoud , Ali Ahmed Faisal , shu Qiang , Li Wei , Wang Binghan , Guo Yajun 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background:
Human adenovirus (HAdV) is highly prevalent in children and associated with various diseases. Monitoring of the spread of HAdV species is crucial in many aspects (e.g. genomic surveillance).
Methods:
A total of 596 throat swabs were collected from pediatric patients diagnosed with acute respiratory tract infection in the outpatient department from July 2021 to January 2022. HAdV was detected using a real-time PCR method. HAdV hexon genes were amplified by PCR, sequenced, then analyzed, and compared with the public hexon genes of HAdV using a basic local alignment search tool (BLAST). Multiple sequence alignments were performed using ClustalW (DNASTAR 7). Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using the IQ-TREE. Statistical analysis was performed in the IBM SPSS Statistics.
Results:
52 (51.5%) males and 49 (48.5%) females tested positive for HAdV. The difference between the sexes was not significant. 82 HAdV-positive cases (81.2%) were below the age of six. The detection rate was not significant among various age groups. 80 patients (80.8%) were diagnosed with upper respiratory tract infection, 15 patients (15.2%) with bronchitis, 3 patients (3.0%) with gastroenteritis, and 1 patient (1.0%) with pneumonia. There was no statistically significant difference among different diagnoses.
Exploring antibiotic-induced persister formation and bacterial persistence genes in clinical isolates from Burkina Faso
Authors: Konkobo Augustin , Ouattara Abdoul Karim , Dabiré Amana Mètuor , Simporé Jacques 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
In addition to antibiotic resistance, persistence is another cause of treatment failure in bacterial infections, representing a significant public health concern. Due to a lack of adequate data on clinical isolates, this study was initiated to investigate persistence in clinical isolates in Burkina Faso.
Methods
Eighty (80) clinical isolates, including 32 Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 41 Staphylococcus aureus, and 7 Salmonella sp. obtained from clinical laboratories in Burkina Faso, were analyzed to assess their susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin, as well as to determine the presence of persistence genes. The effects of ciprofloxacin and gentamicin on persister formation were evaluated by conducting colony counts at 1, 3, 5, 7, and 20 hours after exposing the bacteria to high concentrations of these antibiotics.
Results
Results showed high sensitivity to both antibiotics (72.5% for ciprofloxacin and 82.5% for gentamicin). Persister formation occurred in Staphylococcus aureus with gentamicin and in Salmonella sp. with ciprofloxacin, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa did not form persisters. The mazF gene was found in 28.13% of P. aeruginosa and 2.44% of S. aureus isolates, and the hipA gene in 28.57% of Salmonella sp. None of the relE1 or relE2 genes were detected.
Conclusions
The study revealed high sensitivity in clinical bacterial isolates to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella sp. showed persister formation under antibiotic stress, with low frequencies of the studied persistence genes. These findings enhance understanding of clinical bacterial behavior and inform strategies against antibiotic-resistant infections.
Multi-method coal seam floor water inrush risk evaluation based on variable weight theory
Authors: Du Jiamin , Wu fuzhu , Sun Fuxun , Chen Gen , Jiang Feijun 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Coal mine floor water inrush disasters triggered by deep mining of coal seams occur frequently, and the traditional water inrush risk evaluation methods are far from being able to meet the actual mining situation, with numerous new evaluation methods emerging continuously. The main control index evaluation system was based on the constant weights calculated by AHP method and CRITIC method, and the variable weight theory was applied to determine the variable weights of each index factor; the mathematical methods of weighted rank-sum ratio(WRSR) method and Grey-TOPSIS method were introduced and combined with the variable weight model, to establish the floor water inrush risk evaluation model based on the variable weight theory, and to draw the water inrush evaluation risk zoning map. Combined with the actual mining situation, the two mathematical evaluation methods based on variable weight theory obtained more accurate evaluation results, and compared with the method of water inrush coefficient, the diversification of index factors weakened the absolute control effect of water inrush threshold, made the evaluation results more systematic and comprehensive, provided a new method and a new way of thinking for the deep mining of the coal seam.
Validity of Self-Reported Number of Teeth among Independent Older People in Japan
Authors: Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Saito Mizuki , Nonoyama Toshiya , Inamoto Yoshinori 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: In questionnaire surveys, questions about self-reported number of teeth (SRNT) are often used as an indicator to measure oral health status. We investigated the validity of SRNT among older Japanese people.
Methods: In total, 4984 75- and 80-year-old patients who underwent dental examinations were enrolled. A self-administered questionnaire that asked about the number of teeth was used in the analysis. The percentage agreement and kappa value were calculated for the agreement between SRNT and observed numbers of teeth. To identify factors that affect the reliability of SRNT, a logistic regression analysis was performed using correctness of SRNT as the dependent variable.
Results: Among the 3950 participants who responded as to whether they had ≥ 20 teeth, the degree of agreement was 92.9% (kappa value 0.856, p < 0.001) in an objective evaluation. Of the 2621 participants who reported their numbers of teeth, the SRNT and observed number of teeth matched in 57.5% (kappa value 0.559; p < 0.001). Observed number of teeth and annual dental checkup had a significant effect on the accuracy of SRNT. When analyzing the relationship between the number of teeth and smoking status, the estimated statistical value showing the effect of smoking on the number of teeth was lower in SRNT compared to that of the observed number of teeth.
Conclusion: Although SRNT values did not perfectly match the observed numbers of teeth, the results of this study imply that the SRNT of older people is reliable and useful in epidemiological studies.
Doped Holes and/or Electrons Induced Superconductivity Domes Explained with the Free Volume Concept
Authors: Hao Tian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The conductivity equation developed in our previous work without any restric-
tions to specific materials is employed to explore how superconductivity tran-
sition temperature Tc changes with the doped hole or electron concentrations
based on the free volume concept.
The predicted relationship is used to fit
experimental data available in the literature and a good agreement with obser-
vations is achieved. Our findings may provide an alternative explanation for
doping-induced domes and/or double domes with a-dip phenomena observed
among many superconductors.