bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The mechanism study of THBS3 in regulating cartilage vascularization/bone coupling via the TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway in osteoarthritis
Authors: Yan Jingyao , Zhao Yanping , Zhu Xiaoying , Lu Hanya , Wang Yanli , Wang Shuya , Zhang Zhiyi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective
Vascularization and osteogenesis coupling is observed in osteoarthritis (OA) cartilage. THBS-3 belongs to the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and is highly expressed in cartilage tissue. The effect of THBS-3 on OA is unclear. This study aims to explore the mechanistic role of THBS-3 in OA.
Design:
Expressions of THBS-3 was detected by Western blot (WB) and RT-qPCR. WB was employed to measure the expression levels of synthesis and degradation metabolism, as well as vascularization/ossification coupling. Migration and tube formation experiments were conducted to assess the migratory and tube-forming abilities of HUVECs influenced by THBS-3. Micro-CT was utilized for 3D imaging in mice. Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect the expression of synthesis, degradation metabolism, and vascularization/ossification coupling-related markers. Additionally, WB was utilized to assess the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway.
Results
Proteinomics sequencing has revealed a higher expression level of THBS-3 in OA cartilage. Chondrocytes from OA joints exhibited significantly higher expression of THBS-3 relative to healthy individuals. In experiments conducted both in vivo and in vitro, THBS-3 exhibited a dual impact by enhancing catabolic metabolism, suppressing synthetic metabolism, and fostering the coupling of vascularization and osteogenesis within the cartilage. THBS-3 activated the TGF-β signaling pathway, and blockade of the TGF-β signaling pathway resulted in increased p-Smad2/3 expression in OA cartilage cells and decreased expression of vascularization /ossification coupling.
Conclusion
THBS-3 can promote the vascularization/ossification coupling of cartilage cells by activating the TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway, providing new insights and targets for the treatment of OA.
Risk factors associated with anemia among school age pupils in Tanzania; A Case Study of Pwani, Geita and Arusha regions
Authors: KIMARO OLIVA JOSEPH , KYATIKILA AARON WIGGINS , Pallangyo Edgar Elirehema , DIARZ ESTER JACOB , SICHONA FRANCIS , KILLEL ERICK , MCHAU GEOFREY , CHACKY FRANK 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background Anemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells or the hemoglobin concentration in the blood is lower than normal and has been considered a health concern in developing countries like Tanzania. Primary school pupils are the most endangered groups of anemia. Anemia hurts one's well-being, rational growth, educational attainment, and job production if left untreated. This study aimed to determine factors associated with anemia among public primary school pupils aged 5–19 years in Tanzania. Methods The study was cross-sectional and involved 2,292 pupils from the selected regions. It used secondary data from a school malaria and nutrition survey conducted between August and October 2019 among public primary school pupils (5 to 19 years) in Tanzania. Binary and Multinomial logistic regression models were used to assess the possible association of independent and outcome variables. Results Anemia was higher (33%) among primary school pupils aged 15–19 (COR = 1.35, 95% CL: 1.11, 2.12) compared to the pupils aged 5–9 years. Most of the pupils who were malaria-positive were found to be anemic (COR = 1.67, 95%CL: 1.23, 2.27). Mild anemia was less common among pupils living in urban areas (COR = 0.57, 95% CL: 0.41, 0.80) compared to rural areas. Conclusion Therefore, malaria-positive, rural residents and older children (5 to 19 years) were among the major factors associated with anemia among public primary school pupils in the study area.
Clinical, Radiological Features and Treatment Outcomes of Tuberculosis in Patients Aged 75 years and Older
Authors: Alsehali Afrah , Alrajeh Haneen , AL-Jahdali Hamdan , Al-Safi Eiman , Layqah Laila , Baharoon Salim 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Tuberculosis is a significant contributor of morbidity and mortality. With a progressively aging population, TB is increasingly encountered in older adults. Understanding the clinical presentation and optimal treatment strategies for TB in this population is essential.
Method
Clinical, radiological features, treatment and outcome of TB in patients aged 75 years or older was evaluated retrospectively.
Results
Among 92 elderly tuberculosis patients, most were male (76.1%) with a mean age of 82.5 years. Pulmonary TB was diagnosed in 52.2% of patients, Extra Pulmonary TB in 32.6%, and Disseminated TB in 15.2%. Comorbidities included Diabetes Mellitus (59.8%) and Congestive Heart Failure (41.3%). The most common presentation symptoms included cough (51.1%), fever (43.5%), dyspnea (39.1%), and weight loss (31.5%). Delay of TB diagnosis for up to 3 months was observed in 31.5% of patients. Weight loss and male gender were significant predictors of delayed diagnosis. Laboratory findings varied among TB types, with disseminated TB showing higher eosinophilia and thrombocytopenia. Completion of an initial RIPE treatment protocol achieved in 67.6% of patients. Mortality during treatment occurred in 23.9% of patients. Pulmonary TB was associated with higher mortality compared to extrapulmonary TB (p=0.007).
Conclusion
Tuberculosis is associated with high mortality in patients above age of 75. There is still a substantial delay in TB diagnosis in elderly. RIPE regimen is frequently changed due to side effect. Alternative regimen choices were quite variable. More studies on tuberculosis in this patient’s population is needed to define the best effective therapeutic approach.
Conducting an Objective Structured Clinical Examination under COVID-Restricted Conditions
Authors: Gotzmann Andrea , Boulet John , Zhang Yichi , McCormick Judy , Wojcik Mathieu , Bartman Ilona , Pugh Debra 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
The administration of performance assessments during the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic posed many challenges, especially for examinations employed as part of certification and licensure. The National Assessment Collaboration (NAC) Examination, an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), was modified during the pandemic. Reliability and validity evidence for the modified NAC Examination is presented. This paper outlines validity and reliability evidence for modifications required due to significant interruptions or changes to OSCEs.
Methods
Cronbach’s alpha, decision consistency, and accuracy values were calculated to quantify measurement error. Validity evidence includes comparisons of scores and sub-scores for demographic groups: gender (male vs female), type of International Medical Graduate (IMG) (Canadians Studying Abroad (CSA) vs non-CSA), postgraduate training (PGT) (no PGT vs PGT), and language of examination (English vs French). Criterion relationships were summarized using correlations within and between NAC Examination and the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part I scores.
Results
Reliability estimates were consistent with other OSCEs similar in length and previous NAC Examination administrations. Both total score and sub-score differences for gender were statistically significant. Total score differences by type of IMG and PGT were not statistically significant, but sub-score differences were. Administration language was not statistically significant for either the total scores or sub-scores. Correlations were all statistically significant with some relationships being small or moderate (0.20 to 0.40) or large (> 0.40).
Conclusions
The NAC Examination yields reliable total scores and pass/fail decisions, expected differences in total scores and sub-scores for defined groups were consistent with previous literature, and internal relationships amongst NAC Examination sub-scores and their external relationships with the MCCQE Part I supported both discriminant and criterion-related validity arguments. Modifications to OSCEs to address health restrictions can be implemented without compromising the overall quality of the assessment. This study outlines some of the validity and reliability analyses for OSCEs that had major modifications and interruptions.
Cytokinin oxidase2 deficient mutants improves panicle and grain architecture through cytokinin accumulation and enhance drought tolerance in indica rice
Authors: Rashid Afreen , Achary V. Mohan M. , Abdin MZ , Karippadakam Sangeetha , Parmar Hemangini , Panditi Varakumar , Prakash Ganesan , Bhatnagar-Mathur Pooja , Reddy Malireddy 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Cytokinins (CKs) are multifaceted hormones that regulate growth, development, and stress responses in plants. Cytokinins have been implicated in improved panicle architecture and grain yield however are inactivated by the enzyme cytokinin oxidase (CKX). In this study we developed a cytokininn oxidase2 (Osckx2) deficient mutant using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in indica rice and assesses its function under water deficit and salinity conditions. Loss of OsCKX2 function increased grain number, secondary panicle branching and overall grain yield through improved cytokinin content in the panicle tissue. Under drought conditions, the Osckx2 mutant conserved more water and demonstrated improved water-saving traits. Through reduced transpiration, Osckx2 mutants showed improved survival response than wild type to unset dehydration stress. Further, Osckx2maintained chloroplast and membrane integrity and showed significantly improved photosynthetic function under drought conditions through enhanced antioxidant protection systems. The OsCKX2 function negatively affects panicle grain number and drought tolerance, with no discernible impact in response to salinity. The finding suggests the utility of the beneficial Osckx2 allele in breeding to develop climate-resilient high-yielding cultivars for future food security.
Automatic computation of 3D angle of pulmonary artery based on Web3D for preoperative planning in cardiac surgery
Authors: Tu Zhiyong , Zhang Yudong , Zhang Qian , Gilanyi Attila , Hong HaiFa 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This paper proposes Web3D technology to improve the general, popular computation method of the 2D angle of the pulmonary artery for preoperative planning of children’s congenital cardiopathy. First, the Web3D technology automatically computes the 3D angle of pulmonary artery to remove the complex process of manual computation of the 3D angle of the pulmonary artery from the 2D angle. Second, due to the adoption of lightweight data transmission technology the computed 3D angle of the pulmonary artery is shown to the front client in the browser in less than 5 seconds in the case of a single 3D angle computation. At last, we test and compare computations of the 3D angle of the pulmonary artery with the mainstream Materialise Mimics. The experimental comparison reveals that our computation precision of the 3D angle of the pulmonary artery is 95 percent through the application of Web3D technology.
Prediction and Analysis of Hot Rolling Strip Tension Based on Back Propagation Neural Network
Authors: Yuan Hao , Ma Yiwei , Li Xu , Li Xiaohua , Luan Feng , Ji Yafeng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In modern hot strip mill control systems, strip tension control is the core control function, and its performance will be directly reflected in product quality. A strip tension prediction model based on Back Propagation (BP) neural network is proposed. To ensure that the true tension value is obtained, this paper proposes a four-dimensional judgment mode for the contact time between the looper and the strip steel and establishes a data set of tension parameters for hot rolled strip steel. The traditional BP neural network, genetic algorithm optimized BP neural network (GA-BP), and whale algorithm optimized BP neural network (WOA-BP) models were used to predict the strip tension, and their prediction performance was evaluated. The results show that the proposed WOA-BP model has the best prediction effect, with the highest model decision coefficient of 0.9330. At the same time, the contribution rate of each variable to the strip tension was studied, and the results showed that the looper angle and looper roller force had the greatest impact on it, consistent with physical laws. Propose improvement suggestions for the control performance of hot rolled strip tension based on the influence of looper angle on the prediction model.
Prognosis analysis of pyroptosis- and aging-related genes in colorectal cancer based on bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Pan Tianyan , Jin Yongdong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most prevalent gastrointestinal cancer worldwide. Our goal was to construct a model based on pyroptosis- and aging-related genes (PARGs) to predict CRC outcomes of colorectal cancer.
Methods
The Colon Adenocarcinoma/Rectal Adenocarcinoma Esophageal Carcinoma (COADREAD) dataset from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) was obtained using R. Colorectal cancer-related datasets, namely, GSE74602, GSE87211, and GSE161158 were acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. PARGs were collected from various sources such as the GeneCards database, Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB), and relevant literature. Differential expression analysis, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) were performed using R. Prognostic models were constructed utilizing LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selection) regression analyses. Column line plots and calibration curve plots were generated using the R package. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed using the HPA (Human Protein Atlas) database.
Results
To obtain sets of genes related to both pyroptosis and aging (PARGs), we identified overlapping genes from two distinct datasets: one consisting of genes associated with pyroptosis (PRGs), and the other consisting of genes associated with aging (ARGs). We then created a risk signature that encompassed both pyroptosis and aging factors, which was further validated using diagnostic tools such as a Calibration Curve and decision curve analysis (DCA). The risk score derived from this signature significantly affects the overall survival of patients (CRC) patients. The stability and accuracy of this association were further confirmed using stratified survival analysis and DCA. Additionally, GSEA was performed to obtain results for both high-risk and low-risk groups.
Conclusions
CRC severity may be predicted using the PARGs signature, which is a reliable prognostic analysis model.
A Challenging Case of Anticoagulation: Acute Traumatic Brain Injury Complicated by Multifocal Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Shen Jinyun , Ou Yingwei , Chen Lue , Tan Zhaowang , Fu Jin , Li Qian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) poses a significant threat to human health and well-being, imposing substantial burdens on patients, families, and society at large. The mechanisms underlying coagulopathy induced by TBI remain elusive. Given the risk of exacerbated intracranial hemorrhage in the early stages of TBI, the initiation of anticoagulant therapy is often deferred. However, TBI is an independent risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), and delaying anticoagulation increases the risk of VTE incidence and mortality. The early risk of hemorrhage and thrombosis presents a considerable challenge to treatment. This paper presents a case study of a 51-year-old male patient in the acute phase of TBI, complicated by extensive pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), treated with the insertion of an inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) followed by complications of IVCF thrombosis. Through this case and a review of relevant literature, we argue that anticoagulant therapy can be considered 7-14 days post-TBI based on individual circumstances. After IVCF placement, attention must be paid to complications, especially IVCF thrombosis.
The challenge of improving long-lasting insecticidal nets coverage on Bioko Island: using data to adapt distribution strategies
Authors: García Guillermo A , Galick David S , Smith Jordan M , Iyanga Marcos Mbulito , Rivas Matilde Riloha , Eyono Jeremías Nzamío Mba , Phiri Wonder P , Donfack Olivier Tresor , Smith David L , Guerra Carlos A 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Since 2015, malaria vector control on Bioko Island has relied heavily upon long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) to complement other interventions. Despite significant resources utilised, however, achieving and maintaining high coverage has been elusive. Here, core LLIN indicators were used to assess and redefine distribution strategies.
Methods: LLIN indicators were estimated for Bioko Island between 2015 and 2022 using a 1x1 km grid of areas. The way these indicators interacted was used to critically assess coverage targets. Particular attention was paid to spatial heterogeneity and to differences between urban Malabo, the capital, and the rural periphery.
Results: LLIN coverage according to all indicators varied substantially across areas, decreased significantly soon after mass distribution campaigns (MDC) and, with few exceptions, remained consistently below the recommended target. Use was strongly correlated with population access, particularly in Malabo. After a change in strategy in Malabo from MDC to fixed distribution points, use-to-access showed significant improvement, indicating those who obtained their nets from these sources were more likely to keep them and use them. Moreover, their use rates were significantly higher than those of whom sourced their nets elsewhere.
Conclusions: Striking a better balance between LLIN distribution efficiency and coverage represents a major challenge as LLIN retention and use rates remain low despite high access resulting from MDC. The cost benefit of fixed distribution points in Malabo was deemed significant, providing a viable alternative for guaranteeing access to LLINs to those who use them.
Modeling of the denitration process of the SNCR system of coal-fired power plants based on Bi-LSTM
Authors: Yujie ZHU , Yuan HAN , Donghui YUAN , Yuanyuan CHEN 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
During the operation of thermal power units, a large amount of NOx pollutants is generated due to combustion. In order to reduce NOx emissions, the implementation and optimization of denitrification technology has become a key issue in the current environmental protection. In the selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) denitration control system, due to the delay in the chemical reaction time of sampling, it is impossible to accurately predict the NOx concentration and to quickly adjust the amount of ammonia injection. In this work builds a SNCR denitrification model based on Bi-LSTM to predict the main steam flow rate and the flow rate of urea solution in the furnace area at the current moment using upstream boiler operation parameters. Comparing with SVR, DNN, CNN, LSTM network, the proposed method performs the best in simulation. The MSEs of main steam flow and furnace zone urea solution urea flow are as low as 0.000151 and 0.001232, respectively, and the R2 s are as high as 0.998905 and 0.998905, respectively.
Nociception Level Index variations in ICU: curarized vs non-curarized patients. A pilot study
Authors: Bonvecchio Emilio , Vailati Davide , Mura Federica Della , Marino Giovanni 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Pain is a major physiological stressor that can worsen critical medical conditions in many ways. Currently, there is no reliable monitoring tool is available for pain monitoring in the deeply sedated ± curarized critically ill patients. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the multiparameter nociception index (NOL®) in the critical care setting. We compared NOL with traditionally used neurovegetative signs and examined its correlation with sedation depth measured by bispectral index (BIS®) EEG monitoring.
Methods
This prospective monocentric cohort study was conducted in a general medical surgical ICU, including patients who required moderate to deep levels of sedation with or without continuous neuromuscular blockade. The performance of NOL was evaluated both in the entire studied population, as well as in two subgroups: curarized and non-curarized patients.
Results
NOL demonstrated greater accuracy than all other indicators in pain detection in the overall population. In the non-curare subgroup, all indices correctly recognized painful stimulation, while in the patients subjected to NMBA infusion, only NOL properly identified nociception. In the former group, EEG’s relation to nociception was on the border of statistical significance, whereas in the latter BIS showed no correlation with NOL.
Conclusion
NOL emerges as a promising device for pain assessment in the critical care setting and exhibits its best performance precisely in the clinical context where reliable pain assessment methods are most lacking. Our study demonstrates its feasibility in a mixed surgical and medical ICU population. Furthermore, our research confirms the distinction between sedation and analgesia, highlighting the necessity for distinct monitoring instruments to accurately assess them.
In vitro cluster buds regeneration and control of Shoot Tip Necrosis in tissue cultures of Trichosanthes cucumerina Linn.
Authors: LIU Cheng-Li , DENG Jie-Mei , YAN Hong-Mei , Huang Hengyu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Trichosanthes cucumerina Linn. is a medicinal vine with great potential that can be used as a vegetable. In this study, an efficient in vitro regeneration system of T. cucumerina was established by inducing adventitious buds and controlling Shoot Tip Necrosis (STN) in vitro culture. The results of hormone single factor and orthogonal experiments showed that 6-BA had a significant effect on inducing adventitious buds. The best medium for bud proliferation was MS + 6-BA 3.0 mg·L-1 + KT 2.0 mg·L-1 + NAA 0.5 mg·L-1, and the proliferation coefficient was 14.68. However, after three consecutive subcultures, a higher incidence of STN (78.86%) was observed. The results of the STN control experiment showed that reducing the concentration of inorganic salt, shortening the subculture interval, and increasing the Ca2+ in the medium could effectively control the occurrence of STN. When the subculture interval was 40 d, the stem segments obtained the lowest STN incidence (8.3%) and higher shoot proliferation coefficient (10.02) on the medium of MS + 3.0 mg·L-1 6-BA + 2.0 mg·L-1 KT + 0.5 mg·L-1 NAA + 360.36 mg·L-1 Ca2+. The best rooting medium for stem segments was MS + 0.50 mg·L-1 NAA; the rooting rate was 100%, and no STN occurred. After acclimation, the survival rate of the rooted plantlet reached 95% after 40 days in the soil matrix of coconut husk: humus soil: perlite = 2: 2: 1 (v/v). The results of this study not only reveal the mechanism of STN in T. cucumerina, but also provide technical support and a theoretical basis for its further artificial breeding and cultivation.