bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Use of On-Line Rheometry to Characterize Polymer Melts Containing Physical Blowing Agents*
Authors: Gendron R. , Correa A. 
Published: June 2024

The application of on-line rheometry is considered with particular reference to polymer melts plasticized by physical blowing agents. Experimental investigations were performed on polystyrene containing 0-15 wt% of HCFC-142b or HFC-134a or 0-5 wt% of carbon dioxide at various temperatures and shear rates. It was shown that results could be used to indicate the solubility limit and related to the glass transition temperature. Rheological modelling and data fits were compared indicating that a time/ temperature-composition (i.e. relative concentrations of polymers/blowing agent mixtures) superposition principle was valid. The model was extended to consider effects using a semi-crystalline polymer (polypropylene). It was concluded that an on-line retum-to-stream process control rheometer could satisfactorily measure and monitor mixtures of polymers and physical blowing agents used in thermoplastic foam extrusion. Appropriate viscosity measurements could be directly linked to a number of critical variables.
Outer retina and choroid as potential imaging markers for evaluation of neural impairment in early type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Zheng Gu , Li Jin , Zhou Yue , Gao Hongjian , Wan Ni , Wu Chaoming , Chen Feng , Zhou Rong , Shen Meixiao , Lu Fan , Wang Yuanyuan 
Published: June 2024

Purpose To quantify the presence of early structural alterations in the outer retinal layer and choroid among healthy subjects and diabetic patients with no or mild diabetic retinopathy, and to establish the correlation between the measured structural parameters and retinal sensitivity. Methods In total, 31 eyes from subjects with type 2 diabetes and 29 eyes from healthy subjects were enrolled. Optical coherence tomography was used to measure outer retina layers and choroid, while microperimetry was used to characterize the changes of visual function in a 6-mm diameter area at macula. Quantitative analysis of structural and functional changes was performed between groups and the structure-function correlations were determined. Results The thickness of myoid and ellipsoid zone, choroid and the mean retinal sensitivity were significantly smaller in diabetic group than that in controls (all P values < 0.05). Besides, thinner choroid and outer retina was associated with the decreased retinal sensitivity，especially in diabetic patients ( r = 0.377, P = 0.048; r = 0.401, P = 0.034; respectively). Final multiple regression models showed the outer retinal thickness (ORT) ( P = 0.033), choroidal thickness ( P = 0.003) and the interaction between ORT and choroidal thickness ( P = 0.001) were significant predictors to retinal sensitivity. Conclusions Thinning of choroid and outer retina were significantly correlated with reduced retinal sensitivity, which indicate outer retina and choroid might be potential imaging markers for evaluation of visual function related to neural impairment in type 2 diabetic patients without or in the early stage of diabetic retinopathy.
Conditioning of Motor Evoked Responses After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Effects of Stimulus Intensity
Authors: Rodriguez Kazandra M. , Moon Jungsun , Krishnan Chandramouli , Palmieri-Smith Riann M. 
Published: June 2024

Background: Operant conditioning of motor evoked torque (MEPTORQUE) can directly target the corticospinal pathway in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, it remains unclear whether operant conditioning can elicit short-term improvements in corticospinal excitability and whether these improvements are influenced by stimulus intensity. Hypothesis: Quadriceps MEPTORQUE responses can be upconditioned in a single session and will elicit short-term adaptations in corticospinal excitability, with higher stimulus intensities eliciting greater effects. Study Design: Randomized controlled laboratory study. Level of Evidence: Level 2. Methods: Thirty-six participants were assessed during a single session of an operant conditioning protocol. Participants were randomized into 1 of 3 groups for stimulus intensity used during operant conditioning based on the participant’s active motor threshold (AMT: 100%, 120%, and 140%). Quadriceps MEPTORQUE amplitude was evaluated during a block of control transcranial magnetic stimulation trials (CTRL) to establish baseline corticospinal excitability, and 3 blocks of conditioning trials (COND) during which participants trained to upcondition their MEPTORQUE. MEPTORQUE recruitment curves were collected to evaluate the effect of operant conditioning on acute corticospinal adaptations. Results: Participants with ACL reconstruction could upcondition their MEPTORQUE in a single session ( P < 0.01; CTRL, 17.27 ± 1.28; COND, 21.35 ± 1.28 [mean ± standard error [SE] in N·m]), but this ability was not influenced by the stimulus intensity used during training ( P = 0.84). Furthermore, significant improvements in corticospinal excitability were observed ( P = 0.05; PRE, 687.91 ± 50.15; POST, 761.08 ± 50.15 [mean ± SE in N·m %AMT]), but stimulus intensity did not influence corticospinal adaptations ( P = 0.67). Conclusion: Operant conditioning can elicit short-term neural adaptations in ACL-reconstructed patients. Future operant conditioning paradigms may effectively use any of the 3 stimulus intensities studied herein. Clinical Relevance: Operant conditioning may be a feasible approach to improve corticospinal excitability after ACL reconstruction.
Understanding the need for pediatric neurodevelopmental services among households in western Kenya: A population-based study
Authors: Eastes Kaytlin , Oyungu Eren , Jerop Carolyne , Ombitsa Ananda Roselyne , Kigen Barnabas , McHenry Megan S 
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Existing estimates of rates of childhood disability in Kenya are based on data with important limitations. Individual-level data on childhood disability at the local level is also lacking, leaving critical knowledge gaps for clinical and programmatic development. Objectives: We aimed to estimate the rates of children at-risk for disability, examine the external factors related to risk of childhood disability, and gain a better understanding of the challenges experienced by children at-risk for disabilities and their families within western Kenya. Methods: We conducted a small, cross-sectional randomized community survey to assess the rates of childhood disability across six administrative locations in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, and to understand the experiences of these children and their caretakers. Results: Rate of childhood disability in Uasin Gishu county was estimated to be 5%, with the most common disabilities being mood disorders. Caretakers reported several barriers to accessing treatment for their children at-risk of having disabilities, including financial concerns and lack of transportation. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a need for improved access to care in this region, including addressing significant barriers to accessing care such as stigma and socioeconomic challenges. These community-level data will inform the development of future infrastructure and programming for this population.
Change in disease burden associated with influenza and air pollutants during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong
Authors: Liu Yanwen , Jingyu Xie , Cihan Cai , Tsang Hilda , Lu Shuya , He Daihai , Yang Lin 
Published: June 2024

Objectives This study aimed to estimate the variation in disease burden associated with air pollutants and other respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We adopted a machine learning approach to calculate the excess mortality attributable to air pollutants and influenza, during the pre-pandemic and pandemic period. Results In the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were 8762 (95% confidence interval, 7503–9993), and 12,496 (11,718–13,332) excess all-cause deaths in Hong Kong. These figures correspond to 117.4 and 167.9 per 100,000 population, and 12.6% and 8.5% of total deaths in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Compared to the period before the pandemic, excess deaths from all-causes, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, pneumonia and influenza attributable to influenza A and B significantly decreased in all age groups. However, excess deaths associated with ozone increased in all age-disease categories, while the relative change of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particular matters less than 10 µm (PM10) associated burden showed a varied pattern. Conclusions A notable shift in disease burden attributable to influenza and air pollutants was observed in the pandemic period, suggesting that both direct and indirect impacts shall be considered when assessing the global and regional burden of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Validity and Reliability of the Child and Adolescent Version of the Iron Intake Scale (CIIS) as an Educational Tool
Authors: Okabe Satoko , Ito Shinya , Kameta Akemi , Goto Aya 
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Objective: In Asia, 42% of young children suffer from iron deficiency anemia. Children have an increased requirement for iron intake because of growth and physical activity. Education plays an important role in anemia prevention and in ensuring children are aware of appropriate iron intake and the iron content of different foods. As a tool for this purpose, we adapted the adult version of the Revised Iron Intake Scale (RIIS) to create the Child and Adolescent Version of the Iron Intake Scale (CIIS), using illustrations to help children recognize the foods listed in the CIIS. We aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of this new scale. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire to examine the criterion-related validity of the CIIS. We used Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient to compare iron intake estimated by the CIIS with that calculated by the Brief-type Diet History Questionnaire (BDHQ-15y), which assesses respondents’ dietary habits over the past month and is standardized among Japanese children. The survey was repeated twice to examine reliability. Results: We found a moderate positive correlation for iron intake between the CIIS and BDHQ-15y, with a correlation coefficient of .52 (n = 258, P < .001). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was .718. The CIIS reproducibility test yielded a correlation coefficient of .67. Conclusion: Our results indicated that the CIIS was valid, reliable, and reproducible. We therefore believe that the scale can be used to improve education about iron deficiency anemia and thereby reduce anemia rates among children and adolescents.
Beyond BCMA: newer immune targets in myeloma
Authors: Tan Melinda S. Y. , Chen Yunxin , Smith Eric L. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The identification and targeting of B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) through immunotherapeutic strategies such as antibody-drug conjugates, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, and T-cell engagers have revolutionized the care of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). These treatment modalities have improved the survival outcomes of patients with relapsed and/or refractory MM compared with previously established strategies and are moving into earlier lines of therapy. Despite their efficacy, the majority of patients eventually relapse, necessitating additional therapeutic targets for salvage. G-protein–coupled receptor class 5 member D, Fc receptor-homolog 5, and SLAMF7 are some examples of novel targets in development. This expanding armamentarium of immunotherapeutic agents will be crucial to address the unmet need for relapses after BCMA-targeting therapies, particularly antigen-negative relapses. The utilization of sequential T-cell redirective therapies including agents targeting different tumor-associated antigens and combination therapies appears feasible, paving the way for effective chemotherapy-free regimes. Deliberate consideration of treatment timing, preserving T-cell health, overcoming antigenic loss, and comprehension of the complex tumor microenvironment would be key to maximizing therapeutic benefits and minimizing adverse effects. This review summarizes novel targets in development for myeloma beyond BCMA, presenting pivotal safety and efficacy data derived from clinical trials when available and the considerations vital for navigating this expanding landscape of immunotherapeutic options.
StatiCAL: an interactive tool for statistical analysis of biomedical data and scientific valorization
Authors: Pace-Loscos Tanguy , Gal Jocelyn , Contu Sara , Schiappa Renaud , Chamorey Emmanuel , Culié Dorian 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundIn the realm of biomedical research, the growing volume, diversity and quantity of data has escalated the demand for statistical analysis as it is indispensable for synthesizing, interpreting, and publishing data. Hence the need for accessible analysis tools drastically increased. StatiCAL emerges as a user-friendly solution, enabling researchers to conduct basic analyses without necessitating extensive programming expertise.ResultsStatiCAL includes divers functionalities: data management, visualization on variables and statistical analysis. Data management functionalities allow the user to freely add or remove variables, to select sub-population and to visualise selected data to better perform the analysis. With this tool, users can freely perform statistical analysis such as descriptive, graphical, univariate, and multivariate analysis. All of this can be performed without the need to learn R coding as the software is a graphical user interface where all the action can be performed by clicking a button.ConclusionsStatiCAL represents a valuable contribution to the field of biomedical research. By being open-access and by providing an intuitive interface with robust features, StatiCAL allow researchers to gain autonomy in conducting their projects.
Preliminary studies on the molecular mechanism of intramuscular fat deposition in the longest dorsal muscle of sheep
Authors: Shao Xuwen , Lu Xintan , Sun Xinming , Jiang Huaizhi , Chen Yang 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Intramuscular fat content is an important index reflecting the quality of mutton, which directly affects the flavor and tenderness of mutton. Livestock and poultry intramuscular fat content is influenced by genetics, nutritional level, and environmental factors. Key regulatory factors play a crucial role in intramuscular fat deposition. However, there is a limited amount of research on the identification and function of key genes involved in intramuscular fat content deposition specifically in sheep.

Results
Histological differences in the longest dorsal muscle of the small-tailed frigid sheep increased in diameter and decreased in several muscle fibers with increasing monthly age; The intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle of the small-tailed cold sheep varied with age, with a minimum of 1 month of age, a maximum of 6 months of age, and a minimum of 12 months of age. Transcriptomic sequencing and bioinformatics analysis revealed a large number of differential genes in the longest dorsal muscles of little-tailed billy goats of different months of age, which were enriched in multiple GO entries and KEGG pathways. Among them, the pathway associated with intramuscular fat was the AMPK signaling pathway, and the related genes were PPARGC1A and ADIPOQ; Immunohistochemical studies showed that PPARGC1A and ADIPOQ proteins were expressed in connective tissues, cell membranes, and, to a lesser extent, the cytoplasm of the longest dorsal muscle of the little-tailed frigid sheep; Real-time PCR and Western Blot validation showed that PPARGC1A and ADIPOQ were both expressed in the longest dorsal muscle of the little-tailed frigid sheep at different ages, and there were age differences in the amount of expression. The ADIPOQ gene was negatively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle, and the PPARGC1A gene was positively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle; As inferred from the above results, the ADIPOQ gene was negatively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle (r = -0.793, P < 0.05); and the PPARGC1A gene was positively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle r = 0.923, P < 0.05).

Conclusions
Based on the above results, it can be inferred that the ADIPOQ gene is negatively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest back muscle (r = -0.793, P < 0.05); the PPARGC1A gene is positively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest back muscle (r = 0.923, P < 0.05).
Oral exposure to bisphenol S is associated with alterations in the oviduct proteome of an ovine model, with aggravated effects in overfed females
Authors: Mahé Coline , de la Riviere Marie-Emilie Lebachelier , Lasserre Olivier , Tsikis Guillaume , Tomas Daniel , Labas Valérie , Elis Sébastien , Saint-Dizier Marie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Bisphenol S (BPS) is a substitute for bisphenol A in plastic manufacturing and, as a potential endocrine disruptor, may alter the physiology of the oviduct, in which fertilization and early embryo development take place in mammals. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of a daily dietary exposure to BPS combined with a contrasted diet on the oviduct fluid proteome using an ovine model.

Results
Eighty adult cyclic ewes were allotted to four groups (20/group): overfed (OF) consuming 50 µg/kg/day of BPS in their diet, underfed (UF) consuming 50 µg/kg/day of BPS, and non-exposed controls in each diet group. After three months, the mean body condition score, plasma levels of glucose and non-esterified fatty acids were significantly higher in OF than in UF females. The proteins in collected OF samples (50 µg) were analyzed by nanoliquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS). Overall, 1563 proteins were identified, among which 848 were quantified. Principal component analysis of the data revealed a clear discrimination of samples according to the diet and a segregation between BPS-exposed and non-exposed females in overfed ewes. Hierarchical clustering of differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) identified two clusters of 101 and 78 DAPs according to the diet. Pairwise comparisons between groups revealed a stronger effect of BPS in OF than in UF females (70 vs. 24 DAPs) and a stronger effect of the diet in BPS-exposed than non-exposed females (56 vs. 36 DAPs). Functional analysis of DAPs showed an enrichment in metabolic processes, immune system, cell response to stress, and reproductive processes.

Conclusions
This work highlights for the first time the important impact of BPS on the oviduct proteome, with larger effects seen in OF than UF females. These results, together with previous ones, raise health concerns for everyone and call for a greater regulation of BPS in the food industry.
Compliance with antibiotic therapy guidelines in french paediatric intensive care units: a multicentre observational study
Authors: Amadieu Romain , Brehin Camille , Chahine Adéla , Grouteau Erick , Dubois Damien , Munzer Caroline , Flumian Clara , Brissaud Olivier , Ros Barbara , Jean Gael , Brotelande Camille , Travert Brendan , Savy Nadia , Boeuf Benoit , Ghostine Ghida , Popov Isabelle , Duport Pauline , Wolff Richard , Maurice Laure , Dauger Stephane , Breinig Sophie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Bacterial infections (BIs) are widespread in ICUs. The aims of this study were to assess compliance with antibiotic recommendations and factors associated with non-compliance.

Methods
We conducted an observational study in eight French Paediatric and Neonatal ICUs with an antimicrobial stewardship programme (ASP) organised once a week for the most part. All children receiving antibiotics for a suspected or proven BI were evaluated. Newborns < 72 h old, neonates < 37 weeks, age ≥ 18 years and children under surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis were excluded.

Results
139 suspected (or proven) BI episodes in 134 children were prospectively included during six separate time-periods over one year. The final diagnosis was 26.6% with no BI, 40.3% presumed (i.e., not documented) BI and 35.3% documented BI. Non-compliance with antibiotic recommendations occurred in 51.1%. The main reasons for non-compliance were inappropriate choice of antimicrobials (27.3%), duration of one or more antimicrobials (26.3%) and length of antibiotic therapy (18.0%). In multivariate analyses, the main independent risk factors for non-compliance were prescribing ≥ 2 antibiotics (OR 4.06, 95%CI 1.69–9.74, p = 0.0017), duration of broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy ≥ 4 days (OR 2.59, 95%CI 1.16–5.78, p = 0.0199), neurologic compromise at ICU admission (OR 3.41, 95%CI 1.04–11.20, p = 0.0431), suspected catheter-related bacteraemia (ORs 3.70 and 5.42, 95%CIs 1.32 to 15.07, p < 0.02), a BI site classified as “other” (ORs 3.29 and 15.88, 95%CIs 1.16 to 104.76, p < 0.03), sepsis with ≥ 2 organ dysfunctions (OR 4.21, 95%CI 1.42–12.55, p = 0.0098), late-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia (OR 6.30, 95%CI 1.15–34.44, p = 0.0338) and ≥ 1 risk factor for extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (OR 2.56, 95%CI 1.07–6.14, p = 0.0353). Main independent factors for compliance were using antibiotic therapy protocols (OR 0.42, 95%CI 0.19–0.92, p = 0.0313), respiratory failure at ICU admission (OR 0.36, 95%CI 0.14–0.90, p = 0.0281) and aspiration pneumonia (OR 0.37, 95%CI 0.14–0.99, p = 0.0486).

Conclusions
Half of antibiotic prescriptions remain non-compliant with guidelines. Intensivists should reassess on a day-to-day basis the benefit of using several antimicrobials or any broad-spectrum antibiotics and stop antibiotics that are no longer indicated. Developing consensus about treating specific illnesses and using department protocols seem necessary to reduce non-compliance. A daily ASP could also improve compliance in these situations.

Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov: number NCT04642560. The date of first trial registration was 24/11/2020.