bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tyndallized bacteria prime bronchial epithelial cells to mount an effective innate immune response against infections
Authors: Di Vincenzo Serena , Di Sano Caterina , D’Anna Claudia , Ferraro Maria , Malizia Velia , Bruno Andreina , Cristaldi Marta , Cipollina Chiara , Lazzara Valentina , Pinto Paola , La Grutta Stefania , Pace Elisabetta 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAirway epithelium represents a physical barrier against toxic substances and pathogens but also presents pattern recognition receptors on the epithelial cells that detect pathogens leading to molecule release and sending signals that activate both the innate and adaptive immune responses. Thus, impaired airway epithelial function and poor integrity may increase the recurrence of infections. Probiotic use in respiratory diseases as adjuvant of traditional therapy is increasingly widespread. There is growing interest in the use of non-viable heat-killed bacteria, such as tyndallized bacteria (TB), due to safety concerns and to their immunomodulatory properties. This study explores in vitro the effects of a TB blend on the immune activation of airway epithelium. 16HBE bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to different concentrations of TB. Cell viability, TB internalization, TLR2 expression, IL-6, IL-8 and TGF-βl expression/release, E-cadherin expression and wound healing were assessed. We found that TB were tolerated, internalized, increased TLR2, E-cadherin expression, IL-6 release and wound healing but decreased both IL-8 and TGF-βl release. In conclusion, TB activate TLR2 pathway without inducing a relevant pro-inflammatory response and improve barrier function, leading to the concept that TB preserve epithelial homeostasis and could be used as strategy to prevent and to manage respiratory infection, exacerbations included.
Training Behavior Analysis Graduate Students to Work with an Interpreter
Authors: Vazquez Danika J. , Lechago Sarah A. , McCarville Morgan J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThere has been a substantial increase in the racial and ethnic diversity of the United States population in the past 10–12 years, with the second most prevalent racial or ethnic group being Hispanic or Latino (Jensen, 2021). As a result, it is crucial that behavior analysts are prepared to serve consumers from all backgrounds, including those who do not speak English fluently. One important component for service delivery for linguistically diverse consumers is the incorporation of an interpreter. Given that few peer-reviewed articles in behavior analysis have been published regarding working with interpreters, the current study evaluated the effectiveness of Behavioral Skills Training (Fleming et al., 1996 Journal of Organizational Behavior Management, 16(1), 3–25) to teach behavior analysis graduate students to work with an interpreter during behavior analytic service provision with Spanish-speaking families. The results of this study show that practitioners can be trained to work with an interpreter in a relatively short amount of time. However, training with an interpreter did not affect caregiver comprehension. The results of the satisfaction surveys suggest that the interpreters noted significant improvements in the practitioners’ responding following training, whereas the caregivers did not. The participants also completed satisfaction surveys following the study and indicated positive experiences with the training.
Mild liver dysfunction in Klinefelter syndrome is associated with abdominal obesity and elevated lipids but not testosterone treatment
Authors: Øzdemir C. M. , Ridder L. O. , Chang S. , Fedder J. , Just J. , Gravholt C. H. , Skakkebæk A. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Context
Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is associated with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, which contributes to characteristic phenotypical manifestations including metabolic alterations. Extensive research has demonstrated important associations between androgens and liver function.

Objectives
Investigation of the association between metabolic parameters, sex hormones and liver function in males with KS, both treated (T-KS) and untreated (U-KS) and healthy control males.

Methods
A total of 65 KS males were recruited, of which 32 received testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Also, 69 healthy controls were recruited. We used alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), alkaline phosphatase and PP (prothrombin-proconvertin time ratio) as the main liver markers. Multivariable regression was performed within the three groups. All statistics were calculated using STATA. Principal component analysis was utilized to demonstrate the interconnected patterns among all measured biomarkers, and to elucidate how the different groups were linked to these patterns.

Results
Higher levels of main liver markers were observed in U-KS compared to controls, with no significant differences between U-KS and T-KS. T-KS had lower abdominal fat, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol than U-KS. Using multivariable models, variation in ALAT in U-KS was explained by HOMA2%S; in T-KS by BMI and SHBG; and in controls by hip circumference and estradiol. We found no multivariable models explaining variation in PP in U-KS; in T-KS, PP was explained by BMI and LDL cholesterol, and in controls by total cholesterol. Using principal component analysis U-KS was positively associated to D1 (an obese profile, which also included ALAT) and controls negatively associated with D1 (non-obese profile).

Conclusion
KS males have mild liver dysfunction reflected by a significant increase in the main liver markers and decrease in albumin. The presented data underscore a primary role of metabolic conditions including obesity, insulin resistance and unfavourable lipid profile, in the elevated liver function markers seen in males with KS. Whether TRT can improve liver function in KS warrants further studies. Our findings, highlight that an evaluation of the liver function should be part of the clinical care in males with KS.
Automatic Control of Polymer Dosage Using Floc Images in Sludge Dewatering Plant
Authors: Fukasawa Atsuki , Yamato Tsuneo , Watanabe Shinya 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study introduces a novel method for estimating floc conditions in sludge dewatering plants by employing image analysis and automatic control of polymer dosage. While previous research has focused on drinking water treatment plants, few reports address polymer dosage optimization using image analysis in sludge dewatering plants. The challenge lies in the high sludge dry solids hindering individual floc recognition due to overlap. The study aims to estimate floc conditions by focusing on gap areas between flocs and implementing automatic polymer dosage control accordingly. The proposed method uses images from an Internet Protocol camera and semantic segmentation to identify the floc gap area. For validation of the estimation method, variations of over and under polymer dosage scenarios were investigated and compared with commonly used floc area methods. The findings indicate that the gap area estimation effectively reproduces the theory of polymer cohesion. Automatic polymer dosage control based on this method demonstrates stable operation in both scenarios. Notably, automatic control outperformed manual operation during continuous operation, resulting in a significant reduction in polymer dosage and a notable increase in heating efficiency compared to manual control. This study presents an efficient approach to optimize polymer dosage in sludge dewatering plants, utilizing image analysis for real-time monitoring and control. By focusing on the gap area between flocs, the method enhances accuracy in estimating floc conditions, thereby improving overall dewatering efficiency. The findings highlight the practical benefits of implementing automatic control systems in sludge treatment plants, potentially reducing costs and environmental impact.
All Road User Casualties (Killed) in Great Britain from 1926. Linear and Nonlinear Trends with Persistent Data
Authors: Gil-Alana Luis Alberiko 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis paper deals with the analysis of road casualties in Great Britain, using annual data since 1926. Based on the persistent nature of the data, fractional integration methods are used that include linear and non-linear (structural breaks) models. The results indicate that when the whole data set is employed the series is nonstationary I(1) implying permanency of shocks. However, considering data starting in 1964 we observe a significant negative time trend along with a lower degree of integration that implies transitory shocks. In order to avoid the abrupt change produced by the break, a nonlinear deterministic trend model based on Chebyshev polynomials in time is also considered with the whole sample, and though the order of integration is much lower than 1, the unit root null hypothesis cannot yet be rejected.
On simulation of the 2D P colony with evolving environment
Authors: Langer Miroslav , Valenta Daniel , Patnaik Pawan Kumar 
Published: May 2024

AbstractTo obtain more results in the field of formal models of multi-agent systems it is necessary to step outside of the research done on the paper and move forward to computer simulation. The simulation opens the possibilities to study the behavior of studied model in real-time, or verify designed configurations. To develop suitable application of a good quality and fulfilling all the needs, it is necessary to base the development on detailed analysis. In this paper, we present a development of a simulator of a 2D P colony with the evolving environment. The simulator replaces the previous version of the software we used to simulate the behavior of the 2D P colony with evolving environment. In the previous version, the configuration of the colony was hardcoded into the source code of the simulator; hence, any changes had to be done by developing a new version of the simulator. Recent version is modular and the definition of the simulated colony is held in the separate configuration file. The result of the development is an application in the Python programming language with desired features defined in the analysis of the application. The application was developed under the Open Source license; hence, it is freely accessible and can be used or modified by anyone.
Traditional Bullying and Cyberbullying Victimization Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kennedy Reeve S. , Dendy Kaylee 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to use meta-analysis to assess the rates of bullying victimization in the United States (US) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a systematic search of academic databases and a previous meta-analysis database, we collected studies published between 1995 and 2023. Included studies used US-based data and reported on bullying involvement rates among children/adolescents across at least two data points (years), where 1 year had to be from 2020 to 2023. Data were extracted by type of bullying, gender, race, grade level, as well as numerous study-level features. Analyses included random effects meta-analyses, meta-regressions, and moderator analysis. Findings across the 79 studies and 19,033 effect sizes indicate that reported rates of traditional bullying victimization were significantly lower during the COVID pandemic years of 2020 to 2022 compared to the pre-pandemic years (23% vs 19%). This pattern was reflected across gender, grade, and most racial/ethnic groups examined. Overall, rates of cyberbullying victimization remained similar pre-pandemic vs during COVID (16% vs 17%). However, for boys, American Indian/Alaska Native youth, Asian, multi-racial, and White youth rates of cyberbullying victimization were significantly higher during COVID compared to the pre-pandemic period, while rates were significantly lower for transgender/non-binary youth during COVID (39% vs 25%). In addition, we conducted a moderator analysis and used meta-analysis to calculate pooled rates by year. Findings inform the current state of bullying involvement in the US and have implications for school-based bullying prevention practices and policies.
Enhancing chromosomal analysis efficiency through deep learning-based artificial intelligence graphic analysis
Authors: Zhou Ying , Xu Lingling , Zhang Lichao , Shi Danhua , Wu Chaoyu , Wei Ran , Song Ning , Wu Shanshan , Chen Changshui , Li Haibo 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and diagnostic utility of an advanced chromosomal analysis approach. A total of 2663 amniotic fluid samples were chosen for chromosomal karyotype profiling between January 2022 and June 2023. Two sets of tests were carried out: experiment 1 involved randomly selecting 1168 examples to test the accuracy of machine learning-based chromosomal karyotypes. The aim was to determine the method’s general applicability when cases were naturally dispersed. Experiment 2 concentrated on randomly selecting the most common examples of chromosomal number anomalies and cases with structural defects that did not affect the visual assessment of chromosome categories. The goal was to investigate the diagnostic efficacy of the artificial intelligence (AI) analysis system in detecting these flaws. The results of experiment 1 demonstrated the resilience of the intelligent analysis system in cases with significant differences in chromosomal karyotypes, resulting from manual shooting and film-making. Experiment 2 results showed that the intelligent analysis system surpassed the standard chromosomal image analysis program in terms of automated analysis accuracy, for both normal and defect cases. Furthermore, the intelligent analysis system demonstrated detection and analysis speeds that were 3–15 times faster. The average speed of regular case analysis increased by a factor of 4–6, cases with quantitative defects increased by a factor of 3–5, and cases with structural defects increased by a factor of 5–7. Implementing a chromosome intelligence analysis system in clinical practice could improve the efficiency of chromosome identification and analysis, allow for more widespread chromosomal examination, and reduce the likelihood of congenital defects.
An in vitro evaluation of partial energy replacement in a total mixed ration with volatile fatty acids derived from agro-industrial residues
Authors: Parchami Milad , Rustas Bengt-Ove , Taherzadeh Mohammad J. , Mahboubi Amir 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe scientific interest in volatile fatty acids (VFAs) as an energy source and chemical precursor in ruminant diets has been longstanding, as it has significant implications for animal physiology and well-being. The present study explores the substitution of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) derived from agro-food residues via acidogenic fermentation as an alternative energy source in ruminant feed. Utilizing the gas production method, rumen digestibility assays were conducted, wherein the recovered VFA effluent from the acidogenic fermentation of apple pomace and potato protein liquor was substituted for 10%, 20%, and 30% of the total mixed ration (TMR) energy. Various parameters such as gas, VFA yield and composition, VFA peak intervals, changes in pH, and ammonium nitrogen content were investigated. Based on the results obtained, provision of 20% and 30% of the energy with VFAs did not increase methane production or did not cause significant pH alternations. Nevertheless, such supplementation resulted in increased production and accumulation of VFAs in the rumen media. The bioconversion of agro-food side streams into VFAs opens a new path in sustainable nutrient recovery and feed production from low value agro-industrial residues.
Graphical Abstract
Determinants of birth registration and certification in Southwest Ethiopia: implication for a new strategy to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Authors: Ayele Bizuayehu , Getachew Dawit , Oginni Oreoluwa , Bekele Bayu Begashaw 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBirth registration is a child's basic legal and social right that grants them presence and security in their lifetime. However, it was initiated very recently, and its magnitude has not been well examined in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study assessed the magnitude of birth registration of children under two years old in Southwestern Ethiopia. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on randomly selected 689 mothers or caregivers who had children less than 24 months from 15 April 2023 to 05 June 2023. The study was carried out in Bench Sheko Zone, located in the South West Region of Ethiopia. Face-to-face interviews were used to collect data. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine the factors associated with birth registration. In this study, 26.4%, 95% CI (23.2–29.6%) children were registered for birth. Mothers/caregivers who had a notification about birth registration and certification during pregnancy (AOR = 21.8, 95% CI 11.7–40.9) and information about birth registration after delivery (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI 1.4–11.3) were more likely to register for birth and certification compared to their counterparts while mothers/caregivers who had lower income and poor knowledge were less likely to register for birth and certification of their children. The region's current birth registration rate is low, with only one-fourth of all births registered. Birth notification, information about birth registration, knowledge and income level were all significant predictors of registration. Key strategies such as improving information dissemination, promoting institutional deliveries, empowering economic capacity, and increasing community engagement for improving the current birth registration level are needed to ensure that every child's birth is officially recognized. Subsequently, this will establish a foundation for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Platinum nanoparticles: tiny titans in therapy
Authors: Dutta Shrestha , Hazra Richismita , Kar Aishila , Ghosh Prama , Patra Prasun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractNanotechnology is a swiftly expanding domain with significant applications across various disciplines. Platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) represent a focal point in scientific investigations, drawing considerable research attention due to their potential applicability in diverse fields. Their inherent non-toxicity and remarkable stability confer distinctive plasmonic properties, rendering them particularly valuable in the realm of bioengineering. This review aims to comprehensively assess the ongoing global research landscape pertaining to the synthesis, mimicry, and utilization of PtNPs. The review covers the biosynthesis, as well as chemical and physical synthesis of PtNPs, incorporating both in-vivo and in-vitro experimental analyses. After their synthesis, a range of nanometrological characterization techniques is explored as analytical tools to facilitate the measurement of physical and chemical properties of nanoparticles. Additionally, the review delves into recent advancements in the functionalization of PtNPs for biomedical applications, encompassing areas such as nanomedicine, combination therapy, cancer treatment, and antibacterial properties.
Physical methods for preparation of nanomaterials, their characterization and applications: a review
Authors: Al-Harbi Nuha , Abd-Elrahman Nabil K. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractNanotechnology refers to nanomaterials of different dimensions, ranging in size from 1 to 100 nm. Shape and size, as well as properties of nanomaterials, depend on the materials based on their production. Nanomaterials are classified according to the type of substrate into carbon-based nanomaterials, metal-based nanomaterials, ceramic nanomaterials, lipid-based nanomaterials, semiconductor nanomaterials, and polymer nanomaterials. There are many physical methods that are widely used to produce nanomaterials, among these methods are inert gas condensation (IGC), physical evaporation, electric arc discharge, sputtering, and laser methods. Many characterization analysis techniques of nanomaterials, including ultraviolet–visible (UV–V) spectroscopy, XRD (X-ray diffraction), BET (Brunauere emmette teller), FESEM (Field emission scanning electron microscopy), FTIRS (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), TEM (Transmission electron microscopy) and Zeta size analysis. The unique properties that distinguish nanomaterials, allows them to penetrate many applications that directly serve the world. Nanomaterials have been utilized in various applications in the environment, agriculture, food industries, medical industries, chemical processing, and military industries.
Combatting comorbidity: the promise of schema therapy in substance use disorder treatment
Authors: Talbot Daniel , Harvey Logan , Cohn Victoria , Truscott Melanie 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis paper explores the bidirectional relationship between trauma and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs), emphasising the need for integrated treatment approaches. Trauma exposure, often associated with various psychological disorders, contributes to the high comorbidity observed in SUDs. Early childhood trauma, in particular, is linked to vulnerability in developing SUDs later in life. In response to the challenges of treating SUDs, this paper outlines emerging evidence for schema therapy as a transdiagnostic intervention. Schema therapy, an extension of cognitive behavioural therapy, targets maladaptive schemas and core beliefs by integrating cognitive, behavioural, and experiential techniques. Schema therapy recognises the role of unmet core emotional needs in the development of early maladaptive schemas, offering a holistic approach to address entrenched psychological patterns. Empirical evidence suggests a significant association between early maladaptive schemas and SUDs, highlighting the potential of schema therapy in addressing substance use. Despite limited research, studies demonstrate promising outcomes, including reductions in SUD severity and symptoms of comorbid conditions. Clinical implications include the integration of trauma screening in SUD assessments, adopting a holistic approach to treatment, and exploring schema therapy as a viable intervention through rigorous research methodologies. Ultimately, this paper highlights that the integration of schema therapy into substance use treatment programs holds promise in revolutionising the approach to SUDs, providing a nuanced and effective therapeutic intervention for individuals seeking lasting recovery and improved quality of life.