bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of combined proton pump inhibitors and posaconazole prophylaxis against invasive fungal infections in patients with hematologic malignancies: A retrospective study
Authors: Qu Ruochen , Liu Yan , Zhao Yan , Wang Ziyi , Yuan Shizhao , Yu Jing 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Posaconazole (POS) is widely recommended for the prophylaxis and treatment of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with prolonged neutropenia and a high risk of infection. The oral suspension form of POS, although commonly used, has its concentration influenced by various factors, impacting its effectiveness and safety.
Aim: This retrospective study aimed to investigate the effects of PPIs on POS concentrations and C/D to explore their impact on prophylactic outcomes and examine other potential factors that influence POS concentration.
Method: This retrospective study involved patients who received POS for IFI prophylaxis or treatment. The study specifically focused on the effects of PPIs on POS plasma trough concentrations (Cmin) and concentration-to-dose (C/D) ratios.
Results: The analysis included 283 POS trough concentrations from 86 patients. The incidence of probable and proven IFIs was 6.4% (5/78). The use of PPI reduced POS Cmin levels but did not significantly affect the effectiveness of prophylaxis. Esomeprazole and rabeprazole were found to lower POS Cmin. The occurrence of hepatotoxicity was associated with the co-administration of drugs known to cause liver damage, indicating that POS was not the sole factor in these cases.
Conclusion: Co-administration of esomeprazole or rabeprazole with posaconazole reduces its plasma concentrations but does not compromise prophylactic effectiveness against invasive fungal infections. This observation underscores the critical importance of vigilant management and comprehensive follow-up to optimize therapeutic outcomes in this high-risk patient population.
Barriers faced by primary healthcare providers in addressing emergency situations in the Northern region of Palestine before and during the Gaza war
Authors: Hamshari Suha , Hamadneh Sondos , Ghneem Mukaram , Khalaf Raghad , Daqqa Sara , Alwafa Rola Abu , Ktaifan Mahfouz 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Physicians working in primary health care (PHC) centers are the first contact for patients and expected to deal with emergencies. Emergency care training in PHC settings has been neglected globally, especially in low to middle income countries. Adequate preparation becomes especially important during periods of conflict. The study objectives are to identify the barriers facing PHC physicians when dealing with emergency cases in the northern region of Palestine.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 179 physicians working in the 10 PHC centers distributed among 5 northern governances in Palestine. The study period was from July through December 2023. Data was collected electronically through a self-administered questionnaire adapted from literature review that was internally valid based on the measurement of Cronbach's alpha coefficient.
Results: The physicians’ ages ranged between 25 and 60 years with a mean ± SD of (35.3 ± 8.15) years. Most were not boarded in a specialty (91.6%). The majority attended BLS courses (85.5%), whereas 45.2% and 72% had never attended ACLS or ATLS, respectively. Physicians who reported having work experience in emergency departments (P value = 0.002) and reported attending ACLS courses (P value < 0.001) had a significantly higher perceived level of competence in dealing with emergency cases than others.
Conclusion: Emergency services at PHC in northern Palestine are functioning but have room for improvement. Efforts and resources are needed to increase availability of equipment, supplies, and drugs. Training in emergency management courses like ACLS would enhance the level of competence of physicians to perform emergency skills.
Cryopreserved nanostructured fibrin-agarose hydrogels are efficient and safe hemostatic agents
Authors: Casado Carlos , Cepeda-Franco Carmen , Arenas Sheila Pereira , Suarez Maria Dolores , Gómez-Bravo Miguel Ángel , Alaminos Miguel , Chato-Astrain Jesús , Fernández-Muñoz Beatriz , CUERVA RAFAEL CAMPOS 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Uncontrolled bleeding during surgery is associated with high mortality and prolonged hospital stay, necessitating the use of hemostatic agents. Fibrin sealant patches offer an efficient solution to achieve hemostasis and improve patient outcomes in liver resection surgery. We have previously demonstrated the efficacy of a nanostructured fibrin-agarose hydrogel (NFAH). However, for the widespread distribution and commercialization of the product, it is necessary to develop an optimal preservation method that allows for prolonged stability and facilitates storage and distribution. We investigated cryopreservation as a potential method for preserving NFAH using trehalose. Structural changes in cryopreserved NFAH (Cryo-NFAH) were investigated and comparative in vitro and in vivo efficacy and safety studies were performed with freshly prepared NFAH. We also examined the long-term safety of Cryo-NFAH versus TachoSil® in a rat partial hepatectomy model, including time to hemostasis, intra-abdominal adhesion, hepatic hematoma, inflammatory factors, histopathological variables, temperature and body weight, hemocompatibility and cytotoxicity. Structural analyses demonstrated that Cryo-NFAH retained most of its macro- and microscopic properties after cryopreservation. Likewise, hemostatic efficacy assays showed no significant differences with fresh NFAH. Safety evaluations indicated that Cryo-NFAH had a similar overall profile to TachoSil® up to 40 days post-surgery in rats. In addition, Cryo-NFAH demonstrated superior hemostatic efficacy compared with TachoSil® while also demonstrating lower levels of erythrolysis and cytotoxicity than both TachoSil® and other commercially available hemostatic agents. These results indicate that Cryo-NFAH is highly effective hemostatic patch with a favorable safety and tolerability profile, supporting its potential for clinical use.
Environmental risk of diclofenac sodium in European groundwaters: implications for setting environmental quality standards
Authors: Duarte Cláudia , Lorenzo Tiziana , Reboleira Ana Sofia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Groundwater harbors unique species adaptated to perpetual darkness. Groundwater fauna plays a crucial role in global ecosystem services, but contamination poses a threat to this keystone ecosystem. Diclofenac sodium is a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug of particular concern, due to its presence in both surface and groundwater. We assess the environmental risk of diclofenac sodium in European groundwaters using different scenarios, analyzing Measured Environmental Concentrations (MECs) of diclofenac sodium and estimated the Predicted No Effect Concentration (PNECs) through two approaches: considering the sensitivity of the groundwater crustacean Proasellus lusitanicus, and using surface water species as proxies. Our results show that scenarios based on surrogate species predict that groundwater ecosystems are at risk, and the MECs of diclofenac sodium were consistently lower than the PNEC of P. lusitanicus, suggesting that the current MECs do not pose a significant threat to this groundwater-adapted species. However, risk scenarios differ considering the sensitivity of other groundwater species, emphasizing the importance of considering multiple species’ sensitivities in risk assessment. Therefore, we recommend establishing an environmental quality standard for diclofenac sodium in groundwater at 5 ng/L, value that accounts the need for precautionary measures to safeguard groundwater ecosystems, essential for preserving their unique biota and services.
Comparative electrochemical study of veterinary drug – danofloxacin – at glassy carbon electrode and electrified liquid-liquid interface
Authors: Rudnicki Konrad , Budzyńska Sylwia , Skrzypek Sławomira , Poltorak Lukasz 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This work compares the electroanalytical performance of two electroanalytical systems based on (i) the glassy carbon electrode (GCE), and (ii) the electrified liquid-liquid interface (eLLI), for the detection of fluoroquinolone antibiotic – danofloxacin (DANO). Our aim was to define the optimal conditions to detect the chosen analyte with two employed systems, extract a number of electroanalytical parameters, study the mechanism of the charge transfer reactions (oxidation at GCE and ion transfer across the eLLI), and to provide physicochemical constants for DANO. Detection of the chosen analyte was also performed in the spiked milk samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first (or is among a few) work(s) that directly compares the electroanalytical parameters obtained with solid electrode (in this case GCE) and eLLI. We have found, that for DANO the latter provides better electroanalytical parameters (lower LOD and higher sensitivity) as well as was prone to interference when the milk was subjected to analysis.
Role of Splenic Hepatic elastography ratio in differentiating Non Cirrhotic Portal Fibrosis and Chronic Liver Disease in children
Authors: Upadhyay Piyush , Khanna Rajeev , Sood Vikrant , Lal Bikrant Bihari , Alam Seema 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Differentiation of Non Cirrhotic Portal Fibrosis(NCPF) from chronic liver disease(CLD) in children and adolescents with portal hypertension(PHT) is challenging especially in cases where liver stiffness measurement(LSM) and Hepatic venous pressure gradient are higher. This objective of the current study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the Splenic stiffness measurement (SSM)/LSM ratio in the diagnosis of NCPF.
Methods: From January 2019 to December 2023, consecutive children and adolescents of 6 months to 18 years of age with PHT(CLD and NCPF) were prospectively enrolled. Transient elastography(TE) for SSM and LSM, Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy(UGIE), liver biopsy/trans jugular liver biopsy, abdominal imaging and laboratory evaluation were done. The relationship of TE parameters for diagnosis of NCPF and CLD was evaluated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) statistics were applied using R Studio-4.2.2 statistical software
Results: One hundred and forty seven with CLD and 27 patients with NCPF were evaluated. Median age was 10.0(IQR 2.4-14.0) years, 68.4% were males. The AUROC of SSM/LSM ratio was better (0.992,95%CI 0.982-1.0001) than LSM (0.945,95%CI0.913-0.977) and SSM (0.626,95%CI0.258-0.489) for the diagnosis of NCPF. SSM/LSM ratio cut-off of 3.67 predicted NCPF with an excellent sensitivity(100%), specificity(95.9%) and diagnostic accuracy(95.91%). The AUROC of SSM/LSM ratio was excellent and outperformed other TE parameters in the subgroups i.e. LSM between 10-20 kPa (0.982,95%CI0.947-1.000), without clinically significant Varices(CSV) (1.000,95%CI1.000-1.000) and with CSV(0.993,95%CI0.983-1.000). Diagnostic performance of SSM/LSM Ratio was better than LSM for discriminating NCPF from CLD using McNemar test(p=0.01)
Conclusion: The SSM/LSM ratio is an excellent tool in differentiating NCPF from CLD.
Label-free optical imaging of ion channel activity on living cells
Authors: Xu Jing-Juan , Li Qing-Yue , Lyu Pintian , Kang Bin , Chen Hong-Yuan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Deciphering ion channel activity and signaling interactions within cells is one of the key tasks of neuroscience. Currently, measuring this electrophysiological activity is done using patch-clamp or voltage-sensitive imaging. Unfortunately, these techniques are unable to balance between single-channel sensitivity and high-throughput detection. Here we introduce a label-free electrochemical-modulated interferometric scattering microscope (EM-iSCAT) to measure ion channel activity on living cells at both whole-cell and single-channel levels. We visualize the cellular responses dynamics to osmotic stimulation, and record open-close trajectories of single N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors channels with a frame rate of 1.5 kHz. Furthermore, we localize and distinguish different kinds of ion channels (Na+, K+, Ca2+) on cell membrane and monitor spatio-temporal heterogeneous responses between different cells in a network. The high-throughput and single-channel sensitive nature of EM-iSCAT microscopy allows monitoring simultaneously the activity of individual channels, their localization, and clustering in the cellular community. Our imaging concept opens the possibility to study any kind of ion channels, and more broadly, cell communication mediated by ion channels.
High Gain and Low ECC MIMO Antenna Array for Millimeter Wave Communication Systems
Authors: Pant Mohit , Malviya Leeladhar 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this paper, a compact MIMO antenna array is designed with a defected ground structure (DGS) using spatial diversity techniques on a Rogers RT/Duroid 5880 substrate. The dimensions of the proposed antenna are 1.4$\lambda_{0}$ $\times$ 2.8$\lambda_{0}$$\times$0.073 $\lambda_{0}$
(15 mm$\times$30 mm$\times$0.79 mm), where $\lambda_{0}$ is the free-space wavelength operating at 28 GHz. The antenna array with DGS has enhanced the gain and isolation of the antenna. The gain of the proposed antenna array is 10.3 dBi with 97.01\% radiation efficiency at 28 GHz resonant frequency. The -10 dB impedance bandwidth lies between 26.95-29.50 GHz, which covers the important mmWave frequency bands such as the n257 at 26-29.5 GHz, the n258 at 24.25?27.5 GHz, and the n261 at 27.5?28.35 GHz.In this paper, the MIMO performance metrics are calculated, such as isolation, envelope correlation coefficient, diversity gain, and channel capacity loss. The ECC value observe is 1.29 $\times$ 10 $^{-7}$ at 28 GHz. The channel capacity loss for MIMO antennas is below 0.4 bps/Hz in the operating band, and the isolation is ($|S_{21}|$ = 45.24 dB) at 28 GHz and ($|S_{21}|$ $\ge$ 28 dB) in the complete operating band All the calculated parameters satisfy the standards of the ITU. The proposed MIMO antenna is a good candidate for a 5G wireless communication system.
Genome-wide identification, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of the CsBAG family in Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck
Authors: Wu Tianli , Long Leyi , Liu Yongting , Liu Kaidong , Zheng Lanyan , Zhong Yun 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated athanogene (BAG) proteins constitute a multifunctional family of co-chaperone regulators. They play pivotal roles in modulating various processes, encompassing plant growth and development and response to biotic and abiotic stress. However, despite advancements in our understanding of plant BAGs, the underlying mechanisms remain unelucidated. Therefore, this study aims to systematically examine citrus BAG and their respond to hormonal treatment and Huanglongbing infection. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide in silico analysis of the CsBAG gene family in a globally significant citrus crop to explore its potential roles in fruit trees. We identified and characterized 10 CsBAGs and eight CsBAGs, revealing their distribution across five of the nine citrus chromosomes.
Results: All 10 proteins exhibited a characteristic BAG domain. CsBAG2, 4, 5, and CsBAG8 possess an additional ubiquitin-like domain, while CsBAG1 and CsBAG6 feature a calmodulin-binding motif (IQ motif). Most CsBAGs are predicted to be localized in the nucleus, mitochondria, or chloroplasts. Phylogenetic analysis revealed four major clusters, further categorized into G1–G4 groups. Cis-regulatory elements within all CsBAG promoters were identified and categorized, and the associated transcription factors were predicted. The findings suggest the involvement of these genes in defense against biotic and abiotic stresses, photoperiodic control, hormonal responses, growth, and development. This notion was further supported by gene expression analysis, revealing varying degrees of responsiveness to treatment with plant hormones (GA3 and ABA) and infections with the citrus Huanglongbing (HLB) pathogen Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas). Segmental duplications contributed to the expansion of the CsBAG gene family in citrus.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that certain members of the CsBAG gene family may have roles in stress response and pathogen immunity. This study could help to comprehensively analyze the characteristics of the citrus BAG gene family, and the results will offer additional target genes for molecular disease resistance breeding of citrus HLB, laying a theoretical and practical foundation for the future rational utilization of BAG genes.
A decision support system to utilize leftovers by using meta-heuristic technique
Authors: Muhammad Shakoor , Al-Sawalha M. Mossa , Alqudah Mohammad , Ali Riaz , Shah Rasool , Hamoud Ahmed A. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

There are a lot of leftovers produced by industrial and building activities worldwide. These leftovers include wood planks, electric wires, circular pipes, steel, aluminium window frames, etc., of which some are considered to be standard while others are considered to be non-standard. Since these leftovers vary in size and kind, it can be difficult for manufacturers, electricians, and builders to handle and reuse them, particularly when using non-standard materials. In this paper, we have taken into account different approaches to reuse such leftovers. However, some material requires overlapping sections when connecting. In this regard, the previous techniques fail to handle the problem under consideration. We have modified a meta-heuristic technique (genetic algorithm) to evaluate overlapping sections and handle those leftovers that are considered scraps that were left unused after the implementation of cutting stock and bin packing concepts in order to maximize a given company’s profit and minimize its stock load as much as possible. In this scenario, we extended the leftover minimization approaches for leftovers that have overlapping materials. Moreover, the proposed algorithm is applicable for overlapping pipes, electric wires, steels, and anything else connected by overlapping sections. We have observed from the simulation results that the proposed method handles left-overs in the stock from 76.47% to 100%, which shows the maximum utilization of leftovers at proper places. Similarly, the results and comparisons show the validity and improvements of the modified algorithm. In future work, we intend to modify the proposed technique by including more dimensions like width, weight, and diameter. For such scenarios, we will use different meta-heuristic techniques like PSO, ant colony, and particle swarm (PS) in addition to fuzzy decision-making techniques.
Angle of Attack Effects on the Induced Structural Loads of a Weapons Bay
Authors: Bacci David , Saddington Alistair J. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Aero-acoustic analysis was conducted on a weapons bay numerical model with doors, incorporating radar cross section reduction features. The effect of angle of attack on the aero-acoustic response of the cavity was analysed at Mach numbers of 0.85 and 1.20. It was found that incidence influenced both mean-flow features and acoustic response. Further, linear and angular accelerations induced by the flow on the bay doors revealed potential adverse fluid-structure coupling when the results were compared with modal analysis. Again, the angle of attack did influence the aeroacoustic effects on the cavity door structure.
Elite germplasm introduction, training set composition, and genetic optimization algorithms effect in genomic selection-based breeding programs: a stochastic simulation study in self-pollinated crops
Authors: Fritsche-Neto Roberto , Yassue Rafael Massahiro , Silva Allison Vieira da , Prado Melina , DoVale Júlio César 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In genomic selection, the prediction accuracy is heavily influenced by the training set (TS) composition. Currently, two primary strategies for building TS are in use: one involves accumulating historical phenotypic records from multiple years, while the other is the “test-and-shelf” approach. Additionally, studies have suggested that optimizing TS composition using genetic algorithms can improve the accuracy of prediction models. Most breeders operate in open systems, introducing new genetic variability into their populations as needed. However, the impact of elite germplasm introduction in GS models remains unclear. Therefore, we conducted a case study in self-pollinated crops using stochastic simulations to understand the effects of elite germplasm introduction, TS composition, and its optimization in long-term breeding programs. Overall, introducing external elite germplasm reduces the prediction accuracy. In this context, Test and Shelf seem more stable regarding accuracy in dealing with introductions despite the origin and rate, being useful in programs where the introductions come from different sources over the years. Conversely, using historical data, if the introductions come from the same source over the cycles, this negative effect is reduced as long as the cycles and this approach become the best. Thus, it may support public breeding programs in establishing networks of collaborations, where the exchange of germplasm will occur at a pre-defined rate and flow. In either case, the use of algorithms of optimization to trim the genetic variability does not bring a substantial advantage in the medium to long term.
Development of Defect Detection Models for Standard and Modified Gear Tooth Surfaces based on FFT/DWT
Authors: Huang Shu-Hsien , Wu Ting-En , Lai Chia-Hung 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Gears play a pivotal role in power transmission systems. Over prolonged periods of high-load transmission, the issue of gear lifespan has become a challenging one to address. Monitoring systems are vital in today's smart manufacturing landscape, contributing to safety and sustainable development. Presently, there is a dearth of research focused on the vibration of gears with surface modification. Consequently, this study has devised a novel defect detection model for surface modification gears. It employs time-domain, frequency-domain, and discrete wavelet transform (DWT) analysis in combination with deep neural network (DNN) deep learning to validate the effectiveness of this approach. The study deals with gears in two states: undamaged and wear. Vibration data was sampled for 800 seconds at a rate of 1024 Hz. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence, this research opens the door to innovative applications and services in the field of gear manufacturing. Notably, DWT exhibits a significant reduction in the amplitude of vibrations between surface modification helical gears and surface modification spur gears. Furthermore, from the DNN training and accuracy, it is evident that there is no substantial difference in accuracy between epochs 30 and epochs 100.