bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ADPDB: A Comprehensive Knowledgebase of Manually Curated Peptides Against Dengue Virus
Authors: Mondal Rajat Kumar , Anand Ananya Anurag , Samanta Sintu Kumar 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Recently, there have been estimates of 390 million dengue infections annually worldwide. Thus, Dengue viruses (DENV) continue to result in a severe burden on the human health all over the world. There are four different serotypes of DENV depending on antigenicity. Each can result in a life-threatening condition. For such a severe disease, present-day options of treatment are certainly limited and most patients rely on supportive care. Although there has been a dengue vaccine approved with modest efficacy, there is an urgent need for drugs that can reduce the complications that occur as a result of dengue. Some recent advances have been made in the development of drugs for combating dengue. These include some new vaccine candidates, invention of peptide-based drugs (antimicrobial peptides or AMPs), and repurposing of a few existing ones. Out of these, peptide-based drugs are recently under the limelight for their enhanced efficacy against the DENV and are being tested for their efficacy in preventing dengue in different parts of the world. In this context, we have developed a database that highlights the efforts made in the direction of peptide-based drugs against DENV. The database mentions the important features of all the anti-DENV peptides recorded up to date. These include source, target, mode of action, sequence, length, IC50, toxicity, etc. Our database also presents a holistic view of the overall situation of the peptide-based discovery for dengue. The database is accessible via any web browser at https://bblserver.org.in/adpdb/.
Seven-day antibiotic therapy for Enterobacterales bacteremia in high-risk neutropenic patients: Toward a new paradigm
Authors: Herrera Fabián , Torres Diego , Laborde Ana , Jordán Rosana , Tula Lucas , Mañez Noelia , Pereyra María Laura , Suchorwiercha Nadia , Berruezo Lorena , Gudiol Carlota , Ibáñez María Luz González , Eusebio María José , Lambert Sandra , Barcán Laura , Rossi Inés Roccia , Nicola Federico , Peninni Magdalena , Monge Renata , Blanco Miriam , Visús Mariángeles , Reynaldi Mariana , Carbone Ruth , Pasterán Fernando , Corso Alejandra 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose. Data on short courses of antibiotic therapy for Enterobacterales bacteremia in high-risk neutropenic patients are limited. The aim of the study was to describe and compare the frequency of bacteremia relapse, 30-day overall and infection-related mortality, Clostridiodes difficile infection and length of hospital stay since bacteremia among those who received antibiotic therapy for 7 or 14 days.
Methods. This is a multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study in adult high-risk neutropenic patients with hematologic malignancies or hematopoietic stem cell transplant and monomicrobial Enterobacterales bacteremia. They received appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy, had a clinical response within 7 days, and infection source control. Clinical, epidemiological and outcomes variables were compared based on 7 or 14 days of AT.
Results. Two hundred patients were included (100, 7-day antibiotic therapy; 100, 14-day antibiotic therapy). No differences were observed in baseline characteristics between both groups. Escherichia coli was the pathogen most frequently isolated (47.5%), followed by Klebsiella sp. (40.5%). Among those patients that received 7-day vs. 14-day antibiotic course, a clinical source of bacteremia was found in 54% vs. 57% (p=0.66), multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales isolates in 28% vs. 30% (p=0.75), and 40% vs. 47% (p=0.31) received combined empirical antibiotic therapy. Overall mortality was 3% vs. 1% (p=0.62), in no case related to infection; bacteremia relapse was 7% vs. 2% (p=0.17), and length of hospital stay since bacteremia had a median of 9 days (IQR: 7-15) vs. 14 days (IQR: 13-22) (p=<0.001).
Conclusions. These data suggest that seven-day antibiotic therapy might be adequate for patients with high-risk neutropenia and Enterobacterales bacteremia, who receive appropriate empirical therapy, with clinical response and infection source control.
DNAJC1 Facilitates Glioblastoma Progression by Promoting Extracellular Matrix Reorganization and Macrophage Infiltration
Authors: Zhang Han , Zheng Wenjing , Chen Xu , Sa Longqi , Huo Yi , Zhang Lingling , Shan Lequn , Wang Tao 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is a high-grade and heterogeneous subtype of glioma that presents a substantial challenge to human health, characterized by a poor prognosis and low survival rates. Despite its known involvement in regulating leukemia and melanoma, the function and mechanism of DNAJC1 in GBM remain poorly understood.
Methods: Utilizing data from the TCGA, CGGA, and GEO databases, we investigated the expression pattern of DNAJC1 and its correlation with clinical characteristics in GBM specimens. Loss-of-function experiments were conducted to explore the impact of DNAJC1 on GBM cell lines, with co-culture experiments assessing macrophage infiltration and functional marker expression.
Results: Our analysis demonstrated frequent overexpression of DNAJC1 in GBM, significantly associated with various clinical characteristics including WHO grade, IDH status, chromosome 1p/19q codeletion, and histological type. Moreover, Kaplan‒Meier and ROC analyses revealed DNAJC1 as a negative prognostic predictor and a promising diagnostic biomarker for GBM patients. Functional studies indicated that silencing DNAJC1 impeded cell proliferation and migration, induced cell cycle arrest, and enhanced apoptosis. Mechanistically, DNAJC1 was implicated in stimulating extracellular matrix reorganization, triggering the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and initiating immunosuppressive macrophage infiltration.
Conclusions: Our findings underscore the pivotal role of DNAJC1 in GBM pathogenesis, suggesting its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for this challenging disease.
Hydrophilic Modification of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Capillary Membranes with Chemical Resistance by Constructing Three-dimensional Hydrophilic Networks
Authors: Hou Mingpeng , Li Qiuying , Che Yanchao 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) capillary membranes, known for the great chemical resistance and thermal stability, are commonly used in membrane separation technologies. However, the strong hydrophobic property of PTFE limits its application in water filtration. This study introduces a method that acrylamide (AM), N, N-methylene bisacrylamide (MBA), and vinyltriethoxysilane (VTES) undergo free radical copolymerization, followed by the hydrolysis-condensation of silane bonds, resulting in the formation of hydrophilic three-dimensional networks physically intertwined with the PTFE capillary membranes. The modified PTFE capillary membranes prepared through this method exhibit excellent hydrophilic properties, whose water contact angles are decreased by 24.3%-61.2%, and increasing pure water flux from 0 to 1732.7 L/m²·h-2666.0 L/m²·h. The enhancement in hydrophilicity of the modified PTFE capillary membranes is attributed to the introduction of hydrophilic groups such as amide bonds and siloxane bonds, along with an increase in surface roughness. Moreover, the modified PTFE capillary membranes exhibit chemical resistance, maintaining the hydrophilicity even after immersion in strong acidic (3wt% HCl), alkaline (3wt% NaOH), and oxidative (3wt% NaClO) solutions for 2 weeks. In conclusion, this promising method yields modified PTFE capillary membranes with great hydrophilicity and chemical resistance, presenting substantial potential for applications in the field of water filtration.
Validation of physical activity recall questionnaire and log using doubly-labelled water in Sri Lankan children
Authors: Hills Andrew , Dabare Prasangi , Wickramasinghe Pujitha , Waidyatilaka Indu , Devi Sarita , Dias. Madhuka de Lanerolle , Wickremasinghe Rajitha , Samaranayake Dulani , Jayawardena Ranil , Lanerolle Pulani 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background and objective: Valid and cost-effective approaches are essential to assess physical activity and sedentary behaviors in individuals of all ages. This study aimed to validate a physical activity recall questionnaire (PAR-Q) and a physical activity log against the doubly labelled water (DLW) technique in 11-13-year-old Sri Lankan children.
Method: Total energy expenditure (TEE) was determined using the criterion DLW technique (TEEDLW) and physical activity energy expenditure (PAEEDLW) was estimated. Subsequently, physical activity assessment methods were validated in a group of children (n=96). PAR-Q was adapted from the adolescent physical activity questionnaire and the physical activity log from the Bouchard activity diary. The youth physical activity compendium was used to calculate PAEE from both PAR-Q (PAEEPAR-Q) and activity log (PAEEPALog). Statistical analysis included Spearman’s correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman analyses.
Results: Mean age of the study sample was 12.0 ± 0.8 years where the greater proportion were males (51.9%, n=41). PAEEPAR-Q and PAEEPALog were significantly correlated with the PAEEDLW (r=0.63 and r=0.49, p < 0.05). PAR-Q and activity log underestimated PAEE by 304.2 ± 1223.8 kJ/day and 375.3 ± 1087.4 kJ/day, respectively. Using Bland-Altman analysis, the majority of data points were within the limits of agreement in both PAR-Q and activity log.
Conclusion: PAR-Q is a valid tool for predicting PAEE in Sri Lankan children whereas the physical activity log was not. Researchers and practitioners can confidently use the PAR-Q to assess physical activity in this population, with potential applications in various research and intervention settings.
Tree nutrition and productivity changes in mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) based agrisilvicultural system in humid tropical India
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Kunhamu T. K. , Tiwari Anjali 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The study was carried out in a six-year-old mahogany plantation that was established at Mala, Kerala, India during 2009 at a spacing of 2.5 x 2.5 meters. The trial was laid out in a split plot design during June 2014 with fertilizer levels as main plots and intercrops as sub plots in three replications and trial repeated for two consecutive years (2014-2016). The various N, P, K fertilizer combinations were viz. F1- 0:0:0; F2- 50:25:25; F3- 100:50:50 and F4- 150:75:75 kg ha-1 yr-1 N, P2O5 and K2O. Tree growth in terms of height, diameter, basal area and volume showed significant increase with increase in fertilizer levels. The volume production was the highest under the highest fertilizer regimes (F4) (105.28 m3 ha-1) which was almost 135 per cent higher as compare to unfertilized control plot (F1: 44.84 m3 ha-1). This clearly indicated that nutrient supplementation at younger ages can bring substantial increase in tree productivity for mahogany. Yet another observation was the greater complementarity between the mahogany trees and the herbaceous intercrops. The positive influence of fertilizer on the tree growth was reflected on the intercrop yield as well. The yield reduction in mahogany intercropped plots was found compensated by tree fertilization. In brief, the study revealed the rationale for tree fertilization at younger stages of mahogany growth which may be desirable for the enhancing the productivity of the intercrops.
Which Surrogate Insulin Resistance Indices Best Predict Coronary artery disease? a machine learning approach
Authors: Mirjalili Seyed Reza , Soltani Sepideh , Meybodi Zahra Heidari , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Firouzabadi Danial Dehghani , Eshraghi Reza , Restrepo David , Ghoshooni Hamed , Sarebanhassanabadi Mohammadtaghi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Various surrogate markers of insulin resistance have been developed, capable of predicting coronary artery disease (CAD) without the need to detect serum insulin. For accurate prediction, they depend only on glucose and lipid profiles, as well as anthropometric features. However, there is still no agreement on the most suitable one for predicting CAD.
Methods
We followed a cohort of 2,000 individuals, ranging in age from 20 to 74, for a duration of 9.9 years. We utilized multivariate Cox proportional hazard models to investigate the association between TyG-index, TyG-BMI, TyG-WC, TG/HDL, plus METS-IR and the occurrence of CAD. The receiver operating curve (ROC) was employed to compare the predictive efficacy of these indices and their corresponding cutoff values for predicting CAD. We also used three distinct embedded feature selection methods: LASSO, Random Forest feature selection, and the Boruta algorithm, to evaluate and compare surrogate markers of insulin resistance in predicting CAD. In addition, we utilized the ceteris paribus profile on the Random Forest model to illustrate how the model's predictive performance is affected by variations in individual surrogate markers, while keeping all other factors consistent in a diagram.
Results
The TyG-index was the only surrogate marker of insulin resistance that demonstrated an association with CAD in fully adjusted model (HR: 2.54, CI: 1.34–4.81). The association was more prominent in females. Moreover, it demonstrated the highest area under the ROC curve (0.67 [0.63–0.7]) in comparison to other surrogate indices for insulin resistance. All feature selection approaches concur that the TyG-index is the most reliable surrogate insulin resistance marker for predicting CAD. Based on the Ceteris paribus profile of Random Forest the predictive ability of the TyG-index increased steadily after 9 with a positive slope, without any decline or leveling off.
Conclusion
Due to the simplicity of assessing the TyG-index with routine biochemical assays and given that the TyG-index was the most effective surrogate insulin resistance index for predicting CAD based on our results, it seems suitable for inclusion in future CAD prevention strategies.
S-DrivingRecords: Blockchain based Enhancing Trust and Transparency in Driving Records Using Hyperledger Fabric
Authors: Amin Ruhul 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The escalating growth in population has led to a substantial increase in both private and public transportation on roads. Consequently, the surge in accidents, traffic rule violations, and other traffic-related offenses has become a daily concern. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring the safety of passengers and enhancing transparency in driver recruitment, especially when considering violations that may have occurred abroad. This paper introduces S-DrivingRecords, focusing on pivotal functionalities such as the registration of cases related to traffic rule violations or accidents, case withdrawal, and the sharing of driver history with external Decentralized Applications (DApps). The system facilitates case registration through a dedicated traffic DApp, enabling drivers to share their records with other entities, be they companies or individuals. This feature allows individuals to conduct thorough checks on a driver's history before making decisions such as hiring or booking. The implementation employs Hyperledger Fabric as a distributed ledger to ensure the security of data, while the use of Hyperledger Cacti facilitates seamless collaboration with different systems.
Seasonal subsurface water quality variation of physiochemical and bacteriological characteristics in Kamutwa-Kigali, Rwanda
Authors: Bazambanza Alexis , Bavumiragira Jean Pierre , Kananira Theoneste , Ndayisenga Jean de Dieu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The study was conducted to assess subsurface water quality on a seasonal basis in dry (January–February and June–August) and rainy (March and October–December) seasons. Samples were collected in the rainy and dry seasons of the year 2022. The results of this study were compared with global drinking water guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) to understand its status in terms of threshold levels of pollution and protect public health. Total hardness (TH), pH, alkalinity, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), nitrate, sulfate, heavy metals (Zn, Mn, and Fe), fecal, and total coliforms were examined, and the water quality index (WQI) was calculated to assess the level of water contamination. The results indicated that during the rainy season, all physiochemical parameters gradually increased and the values were well within the permissible limit as prescribed by the WHO. The bacteriological test showed that there were no fecal coliform (FC) and total coliform (TC) in all trials performed, and the calculated WQI showed excellent water quality characteristics, thus proving fit for human consumption.
Liposomes: An Emerging Strategy for the Effective Treatment of
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Vani  , Kriplani Priyanka , Dhingra Ashwani , Chopra Bhawna , Singh Grewal Ajmer , Deswal Geeta , Dass Rameshwar , Guarve Kumar 
Published: March 2024

Background::
A Liposomal delivery system is a novel and distinguishing way of organized
medicine administration. The advancements in liposomal technology allow for controlled
drug distribution to treat rheumatoid arthritis effectively. Liposomes are microscopic lipid-based
vesicles that have shown promise in transporting substances, such as superoxide dismutase, hemoglobin,
erythrocyte interleukin-2, gamma interferon, and smaller compounds.

Objective::
Liposomes are biocompatible, nontoxic, biodegradable, non-immunogenic, and flexible,
with sizes ranging from 0.025 to 2.5 micrometers. LDS is normally employed to distribute
drugs through topical conduits, but fresh investigation has shown that it offers promise for oral, ocular,
and parenteral administration. Our major objective is to gather information about liposomes,
focusing on their applicability in rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

Methods::
In the current review, we have tried to cover the preparation techniques, clinical trials,
patents, marketed formulations, vesicle types, formulations used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and
other ailments, and layered liposomal formulations with improved characteristics.

Conclusion::
Research has established LDS as a biocompatible, sustainable, non-toxic, adaptable
material. Researchers working on LDS technology in rheumatoid arthritis will find this review particularly
useful as it may unclutter novel ways for therapeutic intercessions in treating the disease.
The Correlation between Region-specific Epicardial Adipose Tissue and
Myocardial Ischemia Defined by CT-FFR in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Wang Zheng , Huang Zengfa , Wang Xiang 
Published: March 2024

Background::
Epicardial Adipose Tissue (EAT) accumulation is closely associated with the presence and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial
ischemia, plaque vulnerability, and major adverse cardiovascular events.

Objective::
The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between myocardial ischemia defined by computed tomography-derived fractional flow
reserve (CT-FFR) and region-specific EAT in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods::
Between January 2022 and May 2023, 200 T2DM patients were randomly selected from the Department of Endocrinology in The Central Hospital
of Wuhan. These patients were divided into two groups based on myocardial ischemia defined by CT-FFR: myocardial ischemia group (152 cases)
and control group (48 cases). Both groups of patients used a post-treatment workstation to measure the thickness of region-specific EAT. Receiver
operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and binary logistic regression were used to evaluate the correlation between various parameters and
myocardial ischemia.

Results::
Patients in the myocardial ischemia group had significantly higher values of age, male gender, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol,
triglycerides, LDL, HDL, fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, EAT thickness in right ventricular wall, left atrioventricular groove,
and superior and inferior interventricular groove. ROC curve analysis results showed that EAT thickness in the left atrioventricular groove had the
largest area under the ROC curve for diagnosing myocardial ischemia (0.837 [95% CI 0.766-0.865]; P < 0.001). Binary logistic regression analysis
showed that EAT thickness in the left atrioventricular groove was an independent risk factor for myocardial ischemia in patients with T2DM (P <
0.05).

Conclusion::
The EAT thickness in the left atrioventricular groove is an independent risk factor for myocardial ischemia in patients with T2DM. Adipose tissue
in the left atrioventricular groove region plays a major role in EAT-mediated CAD.
Ambulance Services Attendance for Mental Health and Overdose Before and During COVID-19 in Canada and the United Kingdom: Interrupted Time Series Study
Authors: Law Graham , Cooper Rhiannon , Pirrie Melissa , Ferron Richard , McLeod Brent , Spaight Robert , Siriwardena A Niroshan , Agarwal Gina ,   UK Canada Emergency Calls Data Analysis and GEospatial Mapping (EDGE) Consortium
Published: March 2024

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted mental health and health care systems worldwide.

Objective
This study examined the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on ambulance attendances for mental health and overdose, comparing similar regions in the United Kingdom and Canada that implemented different public health measures.

Methods
An interrupted time series study of ambulance attendances was conducted for mental health and overdose in the United Kingdom (East Midlands region) and Canada (Hamilton and Niagara regions). Data were obtained from 182,497 ambulance attendance records for the study period of December 29, 2019, to August 1, 2020. Negative binomial regressions modeled the count of attendances per week per 100,000 population in the weeks leading up to the lockdown, the week the lockdown was initiated, and the weeks following the lockdown. Stratified analyses were conducted by sex and age.

Results
Ambulance attendances for mental health and overdose had very small week-over-week increases prior to lockdown (United Kingdom: incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.002, 95% CI 1.002-1.003 for mental health). However, substantial changes were observed at the time of lockdown; while there was a statistically significant drop in the rate of overdose attendances in the study regions of both countries (United Kingdom: IRR 0.573, 95% CI 0.518-0.635 and Canada: IRR 0.743, 95% CI 0.602-0.917), the rate of mental health attendances increased in the UK region only (United Kingdom: IRR 1.125, 95% CI 1.031-1.227 and Canada: IRR 0.922, 95% CI 0.794-1.071). Different trends were observed based on sex and age categories within and between study regions.

Conclusions
The observed changes in ambulance attendances for mental health and overdose at the time of lockdown differed between the UK and Canada study regions. These results may inform future pandemic planning and further research on the public health measures that may explain observed regional differences.