bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cardiotoxicity of Cadmium and Its Effects on Heart Efficiency During Early and Late Chick Embryogenesis
Authors: Ali Reda A. , Awadalla Eatemad A. , Hamed Amal S. , Mostafa Dalia Elzahraa F. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

A dangerous heavy metal that is non-degradable in the environment is cadmium (Cd). Many organs can accumulate cadmium, and adversely affect organ function and health. Cd is considered as a teratogenic and embryotoxic agent. This study aims to evaluate the teratogenicity of cadmium at concentrations lesser than the permissible and its effects on the heart during chick embryogenesis. Fertilized eggs of the chick Gallus domesticus were divided into; control, saline injected and four experimental groups injected with single doses of 5, 25, 50 or 75 µM of CdCl2. Histological observations of the heart before hatching and the cardiomyocytes after hatching were recorded. Morphometric measurements of heart chambers were achieved at 3, 4 and 6 days of incubation. Electrocardiograph and respiratory rate were recorded at tenth day. Different cardiac problems had been brought on by Cd. In comparison to controls, the heart looked to be much larger, and in certain cases, growth retardation was seen. Degeneration in heart walls and malformations of dorsal aorta were noticed. Morphomertrically, the width and wall thickness of heart chambers showed significant fluctuations between increase and decrease. Heart beats and respiratory rate significantly decreased compared to control. One of Cd toxicity is its ability to induce cellular oxidative stress. The heart in particular is very sensitive to oxidative stress. Cardiac oxidative stress might intensify heart failure and promote disease progression. Calcium is one of the components that needed for normal heart work. Cd might interfere with calcium metabolism by removing it from the body.
Chitosan-based pH responsive hemostatic hydrogel loaded with cattail pollen
Authors: Yang Xue , Zhang Hua , Liu Wenjing , Cong He , Yang Lifei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Bleeding problem caused by skin injury is one of the most common traumatic external injuries in daily life. Hydrogel wound dressing can effectively attenuate the stimulation of the external environment on the wound and prevent microbial infection due to its unique structure and mechanical properties. However, the hemostatic effect on hemorrhagic trauma is poor. In this paper, natural chitosan and sodium alginate are used to prepare a double network cross-linked hydrogel, and the natural drug cattail pollen, which has a hemostatic effect, is added in order to improve the hemostatic effect of the hydrogel. The experimental results show that the chitosan/sodium alginate/cattail pollen double network hydrogel has better adhesion and anti-stretching ability. At the same time, the flavonoids in cattail pollen can effectively inhibit platelet aggregation, and the hemostatic time is only 41.6% of the Commercial gauze, showing a good hemostatic performance and has good blood compatibility and in vitro coagulation effect, which provides a new idea for the application of hydrogel in the field of antibacterial hemostasis.
Treatment discontinuation in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS): A qualitative study of international experts’ perspectives with associated cost-consequence analysis
Authors: Germeni Evi , Cooper Jacie , Briggs Andrew , Laurence Jeffrey 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare, life-threatening thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) related to congenital mutations impeding control of the alternative pathway of complement. Following approval of the complement C5 inhibitor eculizumab by the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration, initial guidelines suggested lifelong therapy. Yet, growing evidence indicates that discontinuation of eculizumab, or its long-acting form ravulizumab, is possible for many patients. This mixed-methods study sought to explore international experts’ perspectives and experiences related to treatment duration in adult patients with aHUS, while also estimating the financial and potential health consequences of early discontinuation.
Methods
Between January and December 2023, we conducted 10 qualitative interviews with experts in the treatment of aHUS, based upon which we constructed a quantitative decision tree, designed to estimate time on treatment and treatment- and disease-related adverse events.
Results
Thematic analysis of the interview data identified four main themes: (1) Concerns and prior experience; (2) High-risk vs. low-risk groups; (3) Patient preference and adherence; and (4) Funding for monitoring and re-treatment. Although most interviewees were in favour of considering treatment discontinuation for many patients (citing the high cost, burden, and potential side effects of lifelong treatment as key reasons), a prior negative experience of discontinuation seemed to make others more reluctant to stop. Deciding which patients required lifelong treatment and which not involved consideration of a wide range of factors, including patient- and system-related factors. Cost-consequence analysis demonstrated the financial savings associated with early treatment discontinuation at the expense of increased risk of recurrent TMA events. Close monitoring for these events had the potential to minimise any long-term injury, primarily renal, with an estimated one event per 100 patient years. For patients at high risk of TMA and with poor adherence to monitoring, rates of renal injury rose to three events per 100 patient years.
Conclusions
aHUS treatment protocols are changing globally in response to new clinical evidence. Against this backdrop, our mixed-methods study provides compelling evidence on the complexity of factors influencing treatment discontinuation decisions in aHUS, as well as the financial and health consequences of early discontinuation.
DF-DM: A foundational process model for multimodal data fusion in the artificial intelligence era
Authors: Restrepo David , Wu Chenwei , Vásquez-Venegas Constanza , Nakayama Luis Filipe , Celi Leo Anthony , López Diego M 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In the big data era, integrating diverse data modalities poses significant challenges, particularly in complex fields like healthcare. This paper introduces a new process model for multimodal Data Fusion for Data Mining, integrating embeddings and the Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining with the existing Data Fusion Information Group model. Our model aims to decrease computational costs, complexity, and bias while improving efficiency and reliability. We also propose "disentangled dense fusion," a novel embedding fusion method designed to optimize mutual information and facilitate dense inter-modality feature interaction, thereby minimizing redundant information.We demonstrate the model's efficacy through three use cases: predicting diabetic retinopathy using retinal images and patient metadata, domestic violence prediction employing satellite imagery, internet, and census data, and identifying clinical and demographic features from radiography images and clinical notes. The model achieved a Macro F1 score of 0.92 in diabetic retinopathy prediction, an R-squared of 0.854 and sMAPE of 24.868 in domestic violence prediction, and a macro AUC of 0.92 and 0.99 for disease prediction and sex classification, respectively, in radiological analysis.
These results underscore the Data Fusion for Data Mining model's potential to significantly impact multimodal data processing, promoting its adoption in diverse, resource-constrained settings.
A new strategy based on multi-source remote sensing data for improving the accuracy of land use/cover change classification
Authors: Chen Cheng , Yuan XiPing , Gan Shu , Luo WeiDong , Li RaoBo , Bi Rui , Gao Sha , Kang Xiong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Land Use/Cover Change (LUCC) plays a crucial role in sustainable land management and regional planning. However, contemporary feature extraction approaches often prove inefficient at capturing critical data features, thereby complicating land cover categorization. In this research, we introduce a new feature extraction algorithm alongside a Segmented and Stratified Principal Component Analysis(SS-PCA) dimensionality reduction method based on correlation grouping. These methods are applied to UAV LiDAR and UAV HSI data collected from areas concentrated with crops, buildings, and trees. We utilize LiDAR and HSI data to extract 157 features, including intensity, height, Normalized Digital Surface Model (NDSM), spectral, texture, and index features, to identify the optimal feature subset. Subsequently, the best feature subset is inputted into a random forest classifier to classify the features. Our findings demonstrate that the SS-PCA method successfully enhances downscaled feature bands, reduces hyperspectral data noise, and improves classification accuracy (Overall Accuracy = 91.17%). Additionally, the CFW method effectively screens appropriate features, thereby increasing classification accuracy for LiDAR, HSI, and LiDAR + HSI data across various areas. Moreover, the integration of LiDAR and HSI data holds promise for significantly improving ground fine classification accuracy while mitigating issues such as the ' salt and pepper noise '. Furthermore, among individual features, the LiDAR intensity feature emerges as critical for enhancing classification accuracy, while among single-class features, the HSI feature proves most influential in improving classification accuracy.
Sensitivity analysis guided Bayesian parameter estimation for neural mass models : Applications in Epilepsy
Authors: Subramaniyam Narayan Puthanmadam , Hyttinen Jari 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

It is well established that neural mass models (NMMs) can effectively simulate the mesoscopic and macroscopic dynamics of electroencephalography (EEG), including the epileptic EEG. However the use of NMMs to gain insight on the neuronal system by parameter estimation is hampered by their high dimensionality and the lack of knowledge on what NMM parameters can be reliably estimated. In this article, we analyze the parameter sensitivity of Jansen and Rit NMM (JR-NMM) in order to identify the most sensitive JR-NMM parameters for reliable parameter estimation from EEG data. We then propose a Bayesian approach for estimating the JR-NMM states and parameters based on expectation--maximization combined with unscented Kalman smoother (UKS-EM). Global sensitivity analysis methods including Morris method and Sobol method are used to perform sensitivity analysis. Results from both the Morris and Sobol method show that the average inhibitory synaptic gain, $B$ and the reciprocal of the time constant of the average inhibitory post-synaptic potentials (PSPs), $b$ have significant impact on the JR NMM output along with having the least interaction with other model parameters. The UKS-EM method for estimating the parameters $B$ and $b$ is validated using simulations under varying levels of measurement noise. Finally we apply the UKS-EM algorithm to intracranial EEG data from $16$ epileptic patients. Our results, both at individual and group-level show that the parameters $B$ and $b$ change significantly between the pre-seizure and seizure period, and between the seizure and post-seizure period, with transition to seizure characterized by decrease in average $B$ and high frequency activity in seizure characterized by an increase in $b$. These results establish sensitivity analysis guided Bayesian parameter estimation as a powerful tool for reducing the parameter space of high dimensional NMMs enabling reliable and efficient estimation of the most sensitive NMM parameters, with the potential for online and fast tracking of NMM parameters in applications such as seizure tracking and control.
Differences between human male and female neutrophils in mRNA, translation efficiency, protein, and phosphoprotein profiles
Authors: Pilling Darrell , Consalvo Kristen M. , Kirolos Sara A. , Gomer Richard H. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Human males and females show differences in the incidence of neutrophil-associated diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and reactive arthritis, and differences in neutrophil physiological responses such as a faster response to the chemorepellent SLIGKV. Little is known about the basis of sex-based differences in human neutrophils.
Methods
Starting with human neutrophils from healthy donors, we used RNA-seq to examine total mRNA profiles, mRNAs not associated with ribosomes and thus not being translated, mRNAs in monosomes, and mRNAs in polysomes and thus heavily translated. We used mass spectrometry systems to identify proteins and phosphoproteins.
Results
There were sex-based differences in the translation of 24 mRNAs. There were 132 proteins with higher levels in male neutrophils; these tended to be associated with RNA regulation, ribosome, and phosphoinositide signaling pathways, whereas 30 proteins with higher levels in female neutrophils were associated with metabolic processes, proteosomes, and phosphatase regulatory proteins. Male neutrophils had increased phosphorylation of 32 proteins. After exposure to SLIGKV, male neutrophils showed a faster response in terms of protein phosphorylation compared to female neutrophils.
Conclusions
Male neutrophils have higher levels of proteins and higher phosphorylation of proteins associated with RNA processing and signaling pathways, while female neutrophils have higher levels of proteins associated with metabolism and proteolytic pathways. This suggests that male neutrophils might be more ready to adapt to a new environment, and female neutrophils might be more effective at responding to pathogens. This may contribute to the observed sex-based differences in neutrophil behavior and neutrophil-associated disease incidence and severity.
Empowering Health Literacy in Low Socioeconomic Status Populations: A Comprehensive Approach to Addressing Heart Failure
Authors: Cox Jessica , Yu Hannah , Ravanassa Shayan , Hyde Gabrielle , Hernandez Elliott , Reisler Jenna , Davis Elizabeth , Wilkerson Marysuna 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Socioeconomic status and health literacy are key factors in improving health outcomes. Among patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), this is especially important as patients must simultaneously manage their diet, exercise, and medication regimen.
Objectives: To improve health literacy and understanding of CHF among low socioeconomic patients through educational binders.
Methods: Patients with a new diagnosis of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction were enrolled during their first visit to CHF clinic and provided an educational binder created by an interdisciplinary team. At each visit, patients were administered the health literacy questionnaire and the CHF education questionnaire until graduation from the program.
Results: Twenty-three patients were enrolled between February and November 2023, with 8 (34.8%) graduating an average of 22.0±9.0 weeks after enrollment. From baseline to graduation/last visit, health literacy score was significantly improved from 13.8±4.4 to 25.5±3.9 (p=0.03) while CHF education score trended from 46.2±11.3 to 50.2±8.1 (p=0.66). Between enrollment and up to 12 weeks after graduation, 5 patients (21.7%) were readmitted to the hospital at least once with 3 (13.0%) readmitted specifically for CHF.
Conclusion: The current study demonstrated a positive impact on health literacy among patients enrolled in the binder program with low all-cause and CHF-related readmission rates. Overall, the CHF binder program exemplifies a promising approach to bridging the information gap for low-income patients with CHF. Further research and broader implementation of similar initiatives are warranted to advance health equity and improve outcomes for low-income individuals with chronic conditions.
Exosomes derived from human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells promotes angiogenesis in hUVECs by delivering novel miRNA N-194
Authors: Song Yang , Zhang Tao , Shi Ping , Gao Yingzhuo , Pang Xining 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background: To investigate the effect and mechanism of exosomes derived from human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSC-Exos) promoting angiogenesis.
Methods: HAMSC-Exos were isolated using ultracentrifugation and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, NTA, and Western blot. The uptake of hAMSC-Exos by hUVECs was analyzed using PKH-26 labeling, and the effect of hAMSC-Exos on angiogenesis was analyzed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells hUVECs by cell viability assay, Transwell migration assay, Matrigel tube formation assay, and Matrigel plug assays in nude mice. Bioinformatics methods were used to analyze miRNA high-throughput sequencing data of hAMSC-Exos, and RT-qPCR was used to validate the novel miRNAs. HAMSC-Exos with high and low N-194 expression were obtained by transfection, respectively. Target genes were predicted using TargetScan, and the mRNA and protein levels of potential target genes were analyzed by RT-qPCR and Western blot after N-194 mimics transfection. Interaction between miRNAs and target genes was detected using the dual-luciferase reporter assay. Target genes were overexpressed in hUVECs by transfection. The roles of target genes in the influence of N-194 on cell function were determined by analyzing angiogenesis.
Results: The extracted hAMSC-Exos showed teato-like under transmission electron microscopy, and the NTA results showed the particle size of 115.6±38.6 nm. The positive expression of CD9, CD63, and CD81 were verified using Western blot. The treatment of hUVECs with hAMSC-Exos significantly increased cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. HAMSC-Exos contained the novel miRNAs N-194, N-314, N-19, N-393, and N-481, and the expression of N-194 was higher. The Exos derived from hAMSCs which were transfected with FAM-N-194 mimics were able to deliver FAM-N-194 mimics to hUVECs. The hAMSC-Exos with high N-194 significantly promoted angiogenesis in hUVECs. N-194 mimics transfection significantly reduced mRNA and protein levels of potential target gene ING5, and N-194 mimics significantly reduced the luciferase activities expressed by wild-type reporter gene vectors for ING5. The ING5 overexpression significantly reduced the angiogenic capacity of hUVECs. ING5 overexpression suppressed the expression of HSP27 and PLCG2.
Conclusions: HAMSC-Exos promotes angiogenesis in hUVECs by delivering novel miRNA N-194 which targets ING5.
Coupling Efficiency of Partially-Coherent Airy Beam into Few- Mode Fiber under Atmospheric Turbulence
Authors: Lei Sichen , zhang rongrong , wu pengfei , tan zhenkun , wang jiao 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

When a signal beam propagates through the atmosphere, it is affected by turbulence. The Airy beam, with its characteristics of diffraction-free propagation, self-healing, and self-focusing, can effectively mitigate the adverse effects of atmospheric turbulence. In this paper, the coupling efficiency is constructed based on the theory of cross-spectral density, using a structure consisting of partially coherent Airy beams, a single lens, and a four-mode optical fiber. In addition, we also investigated the effects of atmospheric turbulence, lens parameters, and beam parameters on the coupling efficiency. The results indicate that under moderate turbulence conditions (scintillation index AR/AC = 5), the coupling efficiency of the partially coherent Airy beams is 25.7% higher than that of the Gaussian-Schell model beams.
Deciphering the Anthocyanin Metabolism Gene Network in tea plant(Camellia sinensis) through Structural Equation modeling
Authors: Xia Pan , Chen Mei , Chen Linbo , Yang Yijian , Ma Ling , Bi Pinpin , Tang Song , Luo Qiongxian , Chen Jiwei , Chen Hongwei , Zhang Hongling 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background：Tea is an important cash crop that significantly contributes to rural development, poverty reduction and food security in many developing countries. It provides livelihoods for millions of smallholder producers and aids their economic stability. Anthocyanins in tea leaves provides excellent commercial quality and germplasm exploration potential. These compounds give tea leaves vibrant colors and increase health benefits. The current understanding of the synergistic regulation mechanisms responsible for color changes in purple tea, attributed to anthocyanin degradation, remains unclear.
Results: In this study, we have identified 30 gene families within the tea genome that are associated related to with anthocyanin metabolism from tea genome. These gene families play distinct roles in the biosynthesis of anthocyanin including the formation of the core, structure, modification of the molecular framework, facilitation of transport process, regulation of gene expression, breakdown pathways, sugar transportation and iron ion respectively. The transcriptome expression pattern of gene families associated with anthocyanin accumulation in tea leaves of two varieties (N61 and Zikui) and natural development fading of these pigments in the tea leaves of one variety (ZJ). Subsequently, we investigated the synergistic mechanisms of anthocyanin metabolism related gene families within tea leaves using structural equation modeling. The results showed that sugar transport positively affects anthocyanin transportation, and promotes anthocyanin degradation during leaf pigmentation, whereas, it inhibits anthocyanin degradation during the fading of leaf color. Further, Iron ions facilitate the degradation of anthocyanins during their deposition and conversely, impede this degradation process during digestion. These finding suggests that tea plants may regulate the synthesis and degradation of anthocyanins through sugar transport and iron ions. And ensures healthy levels and vibrant colors.
Conclusions：Our study contributes valuable information into the dynamic equilibrium anthocyanin mechanism and sheds light on complex regulatory mechanisms that govern the synthesis, transport and degradation of these pigments. These insights could be further used to develop strategies for enhancing anthocyanins content in unique tea germplasm to aid tea industry in producing new tea products with increased health benefits and aesthetic appeals.