bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Vaccination on RT-PCR Cycle Threshold Values for COVID-19: Insights for Future Pandemic Preparedness
Authors: Aga Abebe M. , Mulugeta Demise , Gebreegziabxier Atsbeha , Mohammed Jemal , Alemu Anberber , Tesera Yewenshet , Mulugeta Frehiwot , Gidisa Bedasa , Bulti Jaleta , Tadesse Gemechu , Nigussie Dereje 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Amid the COVID-19 surge, effective management hinges on precise diagnostic techniques, particularly through the comparison of results among vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. This research seeks to assess clinical evaluations, Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDT), and Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) findings, with a specific focus on the correlation between vaccination status and RT-PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values. A total of 453 suspected COVID-19 cases were included in the study. Detailed information on clinical symptoms, RDT, and RT-PCR results was meticulously collected. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected for both RDT and RT-PCR examinations following established procedures. While RDTs were carried out on-site, RT-PCR tests were performed at the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) genomics laboratory. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation, and Chi-Square tests to reveal connections between diagnostic outcomes and vaccination status, particularly focusing on Ct values in RT-PCR tests. RDT findings showed 34.0% negative and 65.8% positive results, while RT-PCR indicated 35.8% negative and 64.2% positive results. Discrepancies between RDT and RT-PCR results highlighted the importance of comprehensive testing protocols. Further investigation found no significant link between vaccination status and viral load, as indicated by Ct values. Among RT-PCR positive cases, 49.8% had been vaccinated, underscoring the complexities of interpreting test results in vaccinated populations. Analysis of viral load in relation to vaccination status revealed that neither the first nor second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine had a notable impact on Ct values, suggesting that vaccination status alone may not greatly affect viral load dynamics in infected individuals. This underscores the substantial differences between RDT and RT-PCR outcomes, emphasizing the necessity of holistic testing approaches. Additionally, findings indicate that vaccination status does not markedly impact RT-PCR Ct values, underscoring the complexity of interpreting diagnostic results in the context of vaccination, particularly concerning breakthrough infections and false positives.
Resistance of Anopheles gambiae s.s. against commonly used insecticides and implication of cytochrome P450 monooxygenase in resistance to pyrethroids in Lambaréné (Gabon)
Authors: Boussougou-Sambe Stravensky Térence , Ynous Djida , Doumba-Ndalembouly Ange Gatien , Ngossanga Barclaye , Boussougou Lynda Nouage , Ambinintsoa Maminirina Fidélis , Bikangui Rodrigue , Nguiffo-Nguete Daniel , Nkemngo Francis N. , Agonhossou Romuald , Akoton Romaric , Ntabi Jacques Dollon Mbama , Lissom Abel , Ntoumi Francine , Wondji Charles S. , Kremsner Peter G. , Mordmüller Benjamin , Borrmann Steffen , Adegnika Ayôla A. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Insecticides are a crucial component of vector control. However, resistance constitute a threat on their efficacy and the gains obtained over the years through malaria vector control. In Gabon, little data on phenotypic insecticide resistance in Anopheles vectors are published, preventing the rational implementation of resistance management strategies. We assessed the susceptibility to pyrethroids, carbamates and organophosphates of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) and discuss the mechanisms involved in the pyrethroid resistance-phenotype.
Methods
A. gambiae s.l. larvae were collected from breeding sites in Lambaréné. Emerging adults were used in WHO tube assays at an insecticide concentration that defines resistance (diagnostic concentration). Subsequently, deltamethrin and permethrin were used at 5x and 10x diagnostic concentrations and after preexposure with the cytochrome p450 (and glutathione S-transferase) inducer piperonyl butoxide (PBO). A subset of mosquitoes was typed by molecular methods and screened using Taqman assays for mutations conferring target site resistance at the Voltage-gated sodium channel 1014 (Vgsc-1014) locus and the acetylcholinesterase (Ace-1) gene.
Results
All mosquitoes were A. gambiae sensu stricto (s.s.) and resistant to permethrin, deltamethrin and alphacypermethrin (mortality less than 98%). However, mosquitoes were susceptible to malathion but resistant to bendiocarb. The level of resistance was high for permethrin and at least moderate for deltamethrin. Pre-exposure to PBO significantly increased the mortality of resistant mosquitoes (P < 0.0001). They became fully susceptible to deltamethrin and permethrin-induced mortality increased 4-fold. The G119S Ace-1 resistance allele, which confers resistance to both organophosphates and carbamates, was not present. All sampled mosquitoes were either homozygous for the Vgsc-L1014F or heterozygous for Vgsc-L1014F/L1014S, a marker for resistance to pyrethroids and organochlorides.
Conclusion
These findings demonstrate a role of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases in the pyrethroid-resistance of A. gambiae s.s. from Lambaréné. Combining PBO with pyrethroids, as done in second generation bednets, may be used to revert resistance. In addition, malathion could also be used in combination with pyrethroids-based methods for resistance management.
Effects of Staphylococcal Enterotoxin and Fungal Sensitization on the Clinical Outcomes of Asthma
Authors: Wu Hao-Ming , Lin Chun-Yu , Lin Tin-Yu , Teo Mei-Yuan , Cheng Hsin-I , Hung Wei-Syun , Wu Bing-Chen , Chang Chiung-Hsin , Chang Po-Jui , Lo Chun-Yu , Lin Horng-Chyuan , Lin Shu-Min 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Staphylococcal enterotoxin (SE) and fungal sensitization influences the severity of asthma. However, the effects of SE and fungal sensitization on the clinical outcomes of asthma remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the clinical outcomes of asthma in patients with or without SE sensitization. In addition, we analyzed the effects of fungal sensitization on clinical outcomes in patients with SE sensitization.
Methods
This retrospective study included patients with asthma who had undergone an SE-specific immunoglobulin E test at our hospital between January and August 2021. Data on clinical manifestations, medication use, pulmonary function, clinic and emergency room (ER) visits, and hospitalization were collected from the patients.
Results
This study included 106 patients. The prevalence of SE sensitization in the patients was 27.3%. Of the patients with SE sensitization, 50% also had fungal sensitization. The levels of asthma treatment (triple inhaler therapy and biologics) and the risks of hospitalization and an ER visit were higher in the patients with SE sensitization than in those without it. However, after 12-month treatment, the cohorts exhibited similar rates of hospitalizations and ER visits. The patients with concomitant SE and fungal sensitization exhibited a substantial posttreatment decline in pulmonary function.
Conclusion
Adherence to asthma treatment protocols improves clinical outcomes in patients with or without SE sensitization. Among patients with SE sensitization, those with concomitant fungal sensitization tend to exhibit a rapid decline in pulmonary function within 1 year.
Surgical Options of Chiasmatic Hypothalamic Glioma - a Relevant Part of Therapy in an Interdisciplinary Approach for Tumor Control
Authors: Karbe Anna-Gila , Gorodezki David , Schulz Matthias , Tietze Anna , Gruen Arne , Driever Pablo Hernáiz , Schuhmann Martin U , Thomale Ulrich-Wilhelm 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
Extent of resection of pediatric low-grade glioma mostly improves progression free survival. In chiasmatic hypothalamic glioma (CHG) complete resections are limited due to high risk of associated neurological and endocrinological deficits. Still, surgery has its role in the framework of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach. We report our retrospective experience from two centers on surgical options and their impact on long-term outcome.
Methods
Medical records of surgically treated pediatric CHG patients between 2004 to 2022 were analyzed. Patient characteristics, surgical interventions, histology, and non-surgical therapy were retrieved together with outcome measures such as visual acuity, endocrine function, and survival.
Results
A total of 63 patients (33 female, NF-1: n = 8) were included. Age at first diagnosis was 4.6 years (range: 0.2–16.9) and cohort follow-up was 108 ± 71 months. 20 patients were surgically treated with a biopsy and 43 patients with debulking at a median age of 6.5 years (range: 0.16–16.9). Patients received a median of 2 tumor surgeries (range: 1–5). Cyst drainage was accomplished in 15 patients and 27 patients had ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation. Non-surgical therapy was given in 69.8%. At the end of follow up 74.6% of patients had stable disease. The cohort had a median Karnofsky score of 90 (range: 0-100). Four patients died. Hormone substitution was necessary in 30.2% and visual acuity was impaired in 66% of patients.
Conclusion
Pediatric CHG is a chronic disease due to overall high survival with multiple progressions. Surgical therapy remains a key treatment option offering biopsy, tumor-debulking, cyst fenestration and hydrocephalus management in the framework of MDT decision making. Team experience contributes to reduce possible deficits in this challenging cohort.
Quaternary biocomposite of chitosan-polyvinyl alcohol/food grade algae/ montmorillonite clay for cationic methyl violet 2B dye removal: Optimization and desirability functions
Authors: Sando Muna Sarhan , Jawad ALI H. , Farhan Ahlam M. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

A quaternary composite adsorbent of chitosan-polyvinyl alcohol/food grade algae/ montmorillonite clay (CS-PVA/FGA/MMT) was synthesized by hydrothermal process to be a promising adsorbent for the removal of cationic methyl violet 2B dye (MV 2B). The adsorption working variables including CS-PVA/FGA/MMT dosage (A: 0.02–0.1 g/100 mL), pH of the dye solution (B: 4–10) and contact duration (C: 20–480 min) were optimized using response surface methodology with Box-Behnken design (RSM-BBD). The optimal conditions of the adsorption key parameters were confirmed by desirability function test and identified to be CS-PVA/FGA/MMT dosage of 0.099 g/100 mL and solution pH of 8. The equilibrium adsorption studies revealed that the adsorption of MV 2B dye on CS-PVA/FGA/MMT surface follows the Langmuir isotherm model and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The highest adsorption capacity of CS-PVA/FGA/MMT towards MV 2B was determined to be 105.7 mg/g at 25 ⁰C based on the Langmuir isotherm model parameters. The suggested mechanism of MV 2B adsorption by CS-PVA/FGA/MMT can be assigned to the various possible interactions such as electrostatic forces, n-π stacking, and H-bonding. This study shows that the synthesized CS-PVA/FGA/MMT material possesses a unique structure and preferable adsorption capabilities towards cationic dye. Therefore, it offers a practical solution for removing harmful cationic dyes from contaminated wastewater.
Study on tunnel support stability considering rock mass expansion effect in fault fracture zone
Authors: Lizhi Cheng , Zhiquan Yang , Ping Zhao , Fengting Li 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study explores a variety of mountain settlements and stress-strain problems caused by tunnels passing through mountain fault zones. Based on the research background of the Lianfeng Mountain tunnel project, the expansion pressure of the rock mass was introduced through the Kastner formula using ABAQUS finite element simulation software. A mountain structure model was established, and the structural stress state of the mountain after tunnel excavation and the stability law of the secondary lining were studied. The results showed that for the double-layer steel frame, the inner steel frame of the tunnel bore more stress. In the normal section, the settlement of the tunnel vault was similar to the amount of bottom uplift. However, in the broken section, the settlement of the vault was significantly greater than the amount of bottom uplift. The excavation of the second tunnel during the construction of the double tunnel caused the strain in the first tunnel to increase. This study provides a theoretical reference for the safety analysis of similar mountain tunnels.
Proximity Ligation Mediated Signal Recycling with Primer Exchange Reaction for Sensitive and Accurate Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Detection
Authors: Xu Huali , Yang Xiangke , Wang Wen , Yuan Xiaomin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Infectious diseases have emerged as a significant global concern, posing a substantial burden in terms of the high morbidity and mortality, and presenting considerable challenges in clinical diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, it is highly-desired to develop new strategies for sensitive and accurate bacteria detection to address the global epidemic of antibiotic resistance.
Results
In this study, a new technique combining proximity ligation and primer exchange reaction (PER) was developed for precise identification and highly sensitive detection of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). The antibodies recognize both protein A and PBP2a on the surface of MRSA, leading to the initiation of proximity ligation and PER process. The PER procedure generated a substantial number of G-quadruplex sequences, which subsequently bind with thioflavin T (ThT) to significantly amplify its fluorescence, enabling the detection of MRSA with a low detection limit of 3.5 cfu/mL.
Conclusion
Due to its non-label format, high selectivity, and sensitivity, this method can serve as a practical and versatile approach for detecting different bacteria in the early stages of infectious diseases.
Homogeneous catalysis and heterogeneous separation: Ionic liquids as recyclable photocatalysts for hydroacylation of olefins
Authors: Yu Bing , Li Hao-Cong , Zhang Ming , Lv Qiyan , Sun Kai , Chen Xiao-Lan , Qu Lingbo 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The photoinduced ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT) process has been extensively investigated, however, the recovery of photocatalysts has remained a persistent challenge in the field. In light of this issue, a novel approach involving the development of iron-based ionic liquids as photocatalysts has been pursued for the first time, with the goal of simultaneously facilitating the LMCT process and addressing the issue of photocatalyst recovery. Remarkably, the iron-based ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloroferrate (C4mim-FeCl4) demonstrates exceptional recyclability and stability for the photocatalytic hydroacylation of olefins. This study will pave the way for new approaches to photocatalytic organic synthesis using ionic liquids as recyclable photocatalysts.
Detect Local Community based on Core Node using Deep Feature Fusion
Authors: Guo Xingjun , Li Xiaohong , Shi Wanyao , Wang Siwei 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Unlike global community detection, local community detection is to identify a cluster of nodes sharing similar feature information based on a given seed, which is of great significance for many real-world applications. The most popular strategies of local community detection involve either expanding local communities around seed nodes or dividing communities through subgraph clustering. However, the accuracy of many local community detection algorithms heavily relies on the quality of seed nodes. Only high-quality seed nodes can accurately detect local communities. At the same time, the inability to effectively obtain node attributes and structural information also leads to an increase in subgraph clustering error rates. In this paper, we propose a Local Community Detection based on a Core Node using deep feature fusion, named LCDCN. For the seed node, we first find the nearest node with greater significance and correlation as the core node, then construct a \(k\)-subgraph through a specific subgraph extractor based on the core node. Subsequently, two deep encoders are employed to encode and fuse the attribute and structure information of the subgraph, respectively.Finally, by optimizing the fused feature representation through a self-supervised optimization function, the local community is discovered. Extensive experiments on 10 real datasets and 4 synthetic datasets demonstrate that LCDCN outperforms its competitors in terms of performance.
Research on the decoupling effect and driving factors of carbon emissions in Hubei province's industry：based on the perspective of developing new quality productive forces
Authors: tu hongxing , xu songtao , tu peiwen , xiao xu 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Under the "dual carbon" goal, the new productive forces in the industrial energy sector will become an important force in promoting the green and high-quality development of the economy and society in Hubei Province. The article comprehensively applies the Tapio decoupling model and LMDI decomposition method, and uses panel data of the industrial industry in Hubei Province from 2005 to 2021 to empirically analyze the decoupling effect of industrial carbon emissions in Hubei Province and its driving factors. Our research has found that the industrial economic growth and carbon emissions in Hubei Province roughly exhibit a complex process of changes from strong decoupling to weak decoupling, then to strong decoupling, and finally to recessive decoupling. For a considerable period of time in the future, the industrial economic growth and carbon emissions in Hubei Province will still be weakly decoupled. From the decomposition results, it can be seen that the changes in the energy intensity index and carbon intensity index are basically consistent. The decrease in energy intensity has the greatest contribution to carbon dioxide reduction, becoming a key factor driving the reduction of industrial carbon intensity in Hubei. However, the dividends brought by structural effects are still not significant. On this basis, the article proposes relevant policy recommendations, providing theoretical basis and policy basis for the high-quality development of Hubei's industry and the construction of new productive forces in the post epidemic era.
Association of Handgrip Strength Weakness and Asymmetry with Low Physical Performance among Chinese older adults
Authors: Luo Yu , Ma Xiaoyi , Zhang Ling , He Wen 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background Handgrip strength (HGS) weakness and asymmetry are both abnormal conditions of lower-limb muscle strength, but their respective correlations to low physical performance remain unclear and require further investigation.
AimsThis study aimed to investigate the associations of HGS weakness and asymmetry separately and concurrently with low physical performance among Chinese older adults.
Methods The study used two waves of data from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2013 and 2015. HGS weakness and asymmetry were defined according to the maximal HGS and the HGS ratio, respectively. Participants were classified into 4 groups according to HGS status: normal, asymmetry only, weakness only, and concurrent weakness and asymmetry. The logistic regression model was used to investigate the cross-sectional association between low physical performance and each of maximal HGS, HGS ratio, and HGS status, as well as the prospective association between baseline HGS status and new-onset physical performance decline after two years.
Results Participants with HGS asymmetry only, weakness only, and two abnormalities showed a higher prevalence of low physical performance when asymmetry defined as an HGS ratio exceeding 1.20 and 1.30 (all, p<0.001), with the greatest odds in those with two abnormalities (20% threshold: OR 4.05; 30% threshold: OR 5.32). The longitudinal analysis found that HGS weakness can predict the new-onset low physical performance over a two-year period, with concurrent HGS asymmetry further increased the future risk of physical performance decline.
Conclusions Both HGS weakness and asymmetry were associated with a higher prevalence of low physical performance, in an additive way. This study will help screen order individuals with low physical performance more efficiently, and identify those at higher risk of developing new-onset physical performance decline within two years.
Performance of Ag-doped CuO nanoparticles for photocatalytic activity applications: Synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial activity
Authors: Mosleh Ahmed T. , Kamoun Elbadawy A. , EL-Moslamy Shahira H. , Salim Samar A. , Zahran Heba Y. , Zyoud Samer H. , Yahia Ibrahim S. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The combustion method was used to synthesize undoped Ag and Ag-doped CuO nanostructures. The Ag-doped CuO NPs were analyzed using FTIR, XRD, SEM, and EDX instrumental analyses. The energy band gap, as determined by DRS properties, decreases from 3.82 to 3.50 eV for pure CuO and 10 % of Ag/CuO NPs, respectively, with an increase in Ag concentration, with an increase in Ag concentration. The photodegradation efficiency of RhB & Carmine by 10 % of Ag/CuO NPs was found to be nearly 98.9 % and 97.8 %, respectively. Antimicrobial trials revealed that the antimicrobial efficacy of Ag/CuO NPs at several dosages (20, 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 µg/ml) against human pathogens was initially assessed using the agar well-diffusion method, and then the broth dilution method. Noticeably, MIC of Ag/CuO NPs for all pathogens ranged from 100 to 120 µg/ml, was determined. Generally, the observed MBCs have a wide range of Ag/CuO NPs doses, ranging from 150 to 300 µg/ml, which helps to kill (99.99 %) of all tested pathogenic cells. The largest relative inhibitory activities (%) were recorded against Escherichia coli (81.45 ± 1.39) at 120µg/ml of Ag/CuO NPs and 100 µg/ml (80.43 ± 0.59), followed by 80µg/ml (72.33 ± 0.82). Additionally, the lowest relative inhibitory activities (%) were monitored versus fungal cells and Gram-positive bacteria at 120µg/ml of Ag/CuO NPs as 52.17 ± 1.49 and 53.42 ± 1.71, respectively. Ag/CuO NPs are an ideal material for both the degradation of organic pollutants and the removal of bacterial strains in wastewater.
MiR-6837-3p protected retinal epithelial cells from oxidative stress by targeting E2F6 Running Title：MiR-6837-3p Protected retinal cells
Authors: Zhao Xin , Chen Xinru , Xin Xiangyang 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Aim
The mechanism of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex illness that is not fully understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the expression patterns of miR-6837-3p in retinal epithelial cells.
Methods
MiR inhibitors and mimics were used to inhibit or overexpress miR-6837-3p in H2O2-treated ARPE-19 cells, respectively. Then, CCK8 assay, flow cytometry, and wound healing assays were conducted to assess the effects of miR-6837-3p on the behaviors of ARPE-19 cells, including cell growth, apoptosis, cycle progression, and migration. Finally, microRNA database prediction and luciferase reporter assays were used to demonstrate that miR-6837-3p targets the downstream gene E2F6.
Results
Overexpression of miR-6837-3p increased cell viability and suppressed apoptosis in ARPE-19 cells treated with H2O2. Meanwhile, increased miR-6837-3p promotes cell cycle progression and cell migration of ARPE-19 cells. Finally, miR-6837-3p binds to E2F6 to inhibit its expression and regulates the expression of the apoptosis indicator caspase3 in ARPE-19 cells.
Conclusions
The MiR-6837-3p/E2F6 axis might be a target for the treatment of AMD to improve ARPE-19 cell function.