bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Engineering Escherichia coli for high-yielding 2,5-Dimethylpyrazine synthesis from L-Threonine by reconstructing metabolic pathways and enhancing cofactors regeneration
Authors: Liu Xin-Xin , Wang Yao , Zhang Jian-Hui , Lu Yun-Feng , Dong Zi-Xing , Yue Chao , Huang Xian-Qing , Zhang Si-Pu , Li Dan-Dan , Yao Lun-Guang , Tang Cun-Duo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract2,5-Dimethylpyrazine (2,5-DMP) is important pharmaceutical raw material and food flavoring agent. Recently, engineering microbes to produce 2,5-DMP has become an attractive alternative to chemical synthesis approach. In this study, metabolic engineering strategies were used to optimize the modified Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) strain for efficient synthesis of 2,5-DMP using L-threonine dehydrogenase (EcTDH) from Escherichia coli BL21, NADH oxidase (EhNOX) from Enterococcus hirae, aminoacetone oxidase (ScAAO) from Streptococcus cristatus and L-threonine transporter protein (EcSstT) from Escherichia coli BL21, respectively. We further optimized the reaction conditions for synthesizing 2,5-DMP. In optimized conditions, the modified strain can convert L-threonine to obtain 2,5-DMP with a yield of 2897.30 mg/L. Therefore, the strategies used in this study contribute to the development of high-level cell factories for 2,5-DMP.
Graphical Abstract
Estimating COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in pregnant and lactating women: a cross-sectional study in Lebanon
Authors: Zayoud Dana , Haddad Chadia , Khachman Dalia , Ajrouche Roula , Lahoud Nathalie 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic highlights vaccination’s critical role in reducing morbidity and mortality, depending on public attitude. This study aims to identify the estimates of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in pregnant and lactating women, as well as associated potential factors.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted between August and September 2021, through an online survey and with a paper survey distributed in gynecology and pediatric clinics. Pregnant and breastfeeding women aged 18 years and above were recruited. The attitude scale was created specifically for evaluating attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine.

Results
In total, 207 women participated, with 132 breastfeeding, 74 pregnant and 1 experiencing both conditions. Of these, one hundred and twenty women (58%) considered themselves at risk for COVID-19 infection. In addition, 51.7% (n = 107) of women expressed the intent to receive the vaccine once available. A multivariable linear regression was conducted taking the COVID-19 vaccination attitude scale as a dependent variable. The results revealed an R-squared value of 0.558, indicating that approximately 55.8% of the variance in the attitude scale was accounted for by the included predictors. The results showed that preventive measures (ß=2.25, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [1.02; 3.48], p < 0.001), preference for vaccines made in Europe and America (ß=1.23; 95% CI [0.69–1.77], p < 0.001), protect yourself for getting sick (ß=4.22, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [2.83; 5.61], p < 0.001) and belief in the importance of vaccination for themselves and their baby (ß=3.49; 95% CI [2.01; 4.98], p < 0.001) were associated with a positive attitude towards vaccination. Conversely, experiencing a previous bad reaction to a vaccine (ß= -1.35; 95% CI [0.85–1.85], p < 0.001) and concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccine safety (ß= -4.09; 95% CI [-5.98; -2.21], p < 0.001) were associated with a negative attitude towards vaccination.

Conclusion
Our findings reveal that COVID-19 vaccine acceptability among pregnant and breastfeeding women, amidst the pandemic was insufficient to meet community immunity. The identified reasons for vaccine reluctance, notably concerns about safety for both personal health and the health of their pregnancy or newborns, along with insufficient information about the vaccine, underscore the pressing need to address these factors to improve immunization rates.
Anti-reflux mucosectomy (ARMS) for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Zhu Xian , Shen Jianwei 
Published: March 2024

AbstractGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common diseases seen by gastroenterologists worldwide. A significant proportion of patients have a suboptimal response to acid inhibitors, especially proton pump inhibitors and potassium-competitive acid blockers. Due to concerns regarding the safety of long-term medication, many patients are unwilling to take lifelong medication. Endoscopic antireflux management offers a minimally invasive option for GERD patients. In recent decades, there have been several endoscopic antireflux therapies, including radiofrequency therapy, transoral fundoplication, and mucosal resection or mucosal ablation. Of these, antireflux mucosectomy (ARMS) is an effective and safe therapy for refractory GERD. This review provides an updated summary of antireflux mucosectomy.
Molecular and clinicopathologic characteristics of CNS embryonal tumors with BRD4::LEUTX fusion
Authors: Andreiuolo Felipe , Ferrone Christina K. , Rajan Sharika , Perry Arie , Guney Ekin , Cham Elaine , Giannini Caterina , Toland Angus , Willard Nicholas , de Souza Andrea Silveira , Dazelle Karen , Chung Hye-Jung , Singh Omkar , Conway Kyle , Coley Nicholas , Dampier Christopher , Abdullaev Zied , Pratt Drew , Cimino Patrick J. , Quezado Martha , Aldape Kenneth 
Published: March 2024

AbstractCentral nervous system (CNS) embryonal tumors are a heterogeneous group of high-grade malignancies, and the increasing clinical use of methylation profiling and next-generation sequencing has led to the identification of molecularly distinct subtypes. One proposed tumor type, CNS tumor with BRD4::LEUTX fusion, has been described. As only a few CNS tumors with BRD4::LEUTX fusions have been described, we herein characterize a cohort of 9 such cases (4 new, 5 previously published) to further describe their clinicopathologic and molecular features. We demonstrate that CNS embryonal tumor with BRD4::LEUTX fusion comprises a well-defined methylation class/cluster. We find that patients are young (4 years or younger), with large tumors at variable locations, and frequently with evidence of leptomeningeal/cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dissemination. Histologically, tumors were highly cellular with high-grade embryonal features. Immunohistochemically, 5/5 cases showed synaptophysin and 4/5 showed OLIG2 expression, thus overlapping with CNS neuroblastoma, FOXR2-activated. DNA copy number profiles were generally flat; however, two tumors had chromosome 1q gains. No recurring genomic changes, besides the presence of the fusion, were found. The LEUTX portion of the fusion transcript was constant in all cases assessed, while the BRD4 portion varied but included a domain with proto-oncogenic activity in all cases. Two patients with clinical follow up available had tumors with excellent response to chemotherapy. Two of our patients were alive without evidence of recurrence or progression after gross total resection and chemotherapy at 16 and 33 months. One patient relapsed, and the last of our four patients died of disease one month after diagnosis. Overall, this case series provides additional evidence for this as a distinct tumor type defined by the presence of a specific fusion as well as a distinct DNA methylation signature. Studies on larger series are required to further characterize these tumors.
Selective damage induced by pigment-medium interactions in a Neoplasticist oil canvas painting: Composition dans le cône avec couleur orange by G. Vantongerloo (1929)
Authors: Izzo Francesca Caterina , Gnemmi Margherita , Herrero-Cortell Miguel Ángel , García-Castillo Ana María , Martínez-López María Teresa , Fuster-López Laura 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This research focuses on the study of pigment-medium interactions in the film forming, ageing and degradation mechanisms of modern white oil paints observed in the Neoplasticist painting Composition dans le cône avec couleur orange by G. Vantongerloo (1929), conserved in the Institut Valencià d’Art Modern (IVAM). The observation of selective vertical cracks and the significant presence of protrusions in the painting suggested that the observed degradation phenomena were specific to the coloured area. To understand the composition of pigments governing the film formation processes and later degradation phenomena in the oil paint films, a hybrid experimental approach was taken, aimed at understanding the physical, chemical and mechanical mechanisms involved. For this purpose, digital portable microscopy and multiband imaging analyses were carried out. Furthermore, the technical study involved the use of micro-invasive analysis such as μ-Raman, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and GC–MS analysis for a more comprehensive understanding of the nature of the binding media and products resulting from the auto-oxidation, film-forming, hydrolysis, and degradation processes of the lipidic binding media. The results obtained suggest that on-going degradation phenomena are closely linked to the chemical interaction between pigment and binding medium.
Determination on the thickness of superficially weathered layer of historical stones from Guanzhong area in China
Authors: Wang Xuemei , Luo Hongjie , Yu Haidong , Xiong Can , Dai Hui , Rong Bo , Huang Xiao 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Superficial weathering in the form of granular disaggregation, powdering and flaking on stone surface is one of the most serious damages to stone heritages, since the surface carries most of the artistic, historical information. The determination of the thickness of the superficially weathered layer of historical stones is critical to their conservation. However, the methodology for quantitative analyses of such thickness remains very limited. In this study, we carefully study the vapor absorption and pore structure evolution of historical sandstones from Guanzhong area with respect to their weathering. We find out that the thickness of superficial weathered layer of Guanzhong sandstones can be derived by following the changes in vapor absorption or pore structure. Such data achieved from various methods developed in this work are consistent with each other and in good agreement with the results obtained by using current techniques such as drilling resistance measurement, the Ruxton method and ultrasonic testing. Among all methods used, pore size distribution analysis requires less sample preparation and measures the thickness of superficial weathered layer of Guanzhong sandstones around 7 mm.
Variations in the quantity and chemical composition of soil dissolved organic matter along a chronosequence of wolfberry plantations in an arid area of Northwest China
Authors: Wu Rongjie , Xue Bin , Ndzana George Martial , Wang Yan , Fu Longwei , Liu Bingqing , Gao Ruili , Ma Kun , Du Lingtong , An Hui , Kamran Muhammad 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundDissolved organic matter (DOM) is the most active component of soil organic matter (SOM), playing a major role in regulating soil fertility and carbon cycling. However, the effects of different wolfberry (Lycium barbarum L.) planting ages on the chemical diversity of DOM and its interaction with soil physicochemical properties have not been comprehensively studied. In this context, we collected soil samples (0–10 cm) from wolfberry orchards at different planting ages (1, 4, 6, 10, and 13 years) and from a corn field (0 years) in the arid region of Northwest Ningxia in China to assess the changes in soil DOM quantity and quality using ultraviolet–visible absorbance, fluorescence spectroscopy, and parallel factor analysis.ResultsWe found that the ages of the wolfberry plantation changed the contents of soil nutrients and SOM. In addition, significantly higher DOM concentrations were observed at wolfberry planting ages of 10 and 13 years than those in the control group (0 years) by 176.6 and 190.2%, respectively. The specific ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA254) and 254 nm to 365 nm ultraviolet absorbance ratio (E2/E3) values were decreased and increased, respectively, after wolfberry planting, indicating low aromatic and molecular weight compounds of soil DOM. The biogenic index (BIX) and fluorescence index (FI) of soil DOM ranged from 0.6 to 0.7 and 1.42 to 1.93, respectively, suggesting a combination of allochthonous and autochthonous sources. The short- and long-term wolfberry cultivations of 1 and 4 years decreased and increased the humification degrees of soil DOM, respectively. The contribution rate of the protein-like (C1) fluorescence intensity decreased, while that of the fulvic acid-like component (C3) increased with increasing wolfberry planting age, suggesting a change in the structure of soil DOM from protein-like to fulvic acids. In this study, total nitrogen (TN) and exchangeable Ca2+were the main factors affecting the quantity and quality of soil DOM in the wolfberry orchards with different planting ages.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that long-term wolfberry plantation enhances the accumulation of soil DOM and more complex compounds, thereby promoting soil organic carbon sequestration under different planting ages and land-use types in terrestrial ecosystems.Graphical Abstract
Cultivating writing skills: the role of ChatGPT as a learning assistant—a case study
Authors: Punar Özçelik Nermin , Yangın Ekşi Gonca 
Published: March 2024

AbstractArtificial intelligence (AI) has garnered considerable interest in the field of language education in recent times; however, limited research has focused on the role of AI in the specific context of register knowledge learning during English language writing. This study aims to address this research gap by examining the impact of ChatGPT, an AI-powered chatbot, on the acquisition of register knowledge across various writing tasks. The research design employed a one-case shot pre-experimental design, with 11 voluntary participants selected through convenience sampling. Preliminary results indicate that students found ChatGPT beneficial for acquiring formal register knowledge but perceived it as unnecessary for informal writing. Additionally, the effectiveness of ChatGPT in teaching neutral register was questioned by the participants. This research contributes to the existing literature by shedding new light on the effects of AI-generated chatbots in register learning during the writing process, offering insights into their potential as learning assistants. Further investigation is warranted to explore the broader implications and applications of AI in language learning contexts.
Deloading Practices in Strength and Physique Sports: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Rogerson David , Nolan David , Korakakis Patroklos Androulakis , Immonen Velu , Wolf Milo , Bell Lee 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
This study explored the deloading practices of competitive strength and physique athletes. A 55-item anonymised web-based survey was distributed to a convenience-based, cross-sectional sample of competitive strength and physique athletes (n = 246; males = 181 [73.6%], females = 65 [26.4%]; age = 29.5 ± 8.6 years) who had 8.2 ± 6.2 years of resistance training and 3.8 ± 3.1 years of competition experience.

Results
All athletes deloaded within training with energy and fatigue management being the main reasons to do so. The typical duration of a deload was 6.4 ± 1.7 days, integrated into the training programme every 5.6 ± 2.3 weeks. Deloading was undertaken using a proactive, pre-planned strategy (or in combination with an autoregulated approach) and undertaken when performance stalled or during periods of increased muscle soreness or joint aches. Athletes reported that training volume would decrease (through a reduction in both repetitions per set and sets per week), but training frequency would remain unchanged during deloads. Additionally, athletes reported that training intensity (load lifted) would decrease, and effort would be reduced (facilitated through an increase in repetitions in reserve). Athletes would generally maintain the same exercise selection during deloading. For athletes that supplemented deloading with additional recovery modalities (n = 118; 48%), the most reported strategies were massage, static stretching and foam rolling.

Conclusion
Results from this research might assist strength and physique athletes and coaches to plan their deloading. Future research should empirically investigate the findings from this study to further evaluate the potential utility of deloading in strength and physique sports.
Smoking status, cadmium, and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Lang Susanne M. , Schiffl Helmut 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundChronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 10% of the general population in Western countries. Currently, CKD cannot be cured and there are only few strategies to prevent the onset of CKD, to reverse early stages of CKD, and to prevent the progression of established CKD to end-stage kidney disease. Cigarette smoking is a preventable cause of CKD.MethodsThis narrative review analyses the cause–effect relationship between cigarette smoking and CKD and discusses the association of inhaled cadmium and smoking-induced kidney damage.ResultsCigarette smoking places individuals at risk for incident CKD. It accelerates the progression (decline in glomerular filtration rate, aggravation of proteinuria) of CKD to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), and is associated with shortened kidney transplant graft survival. These harmful effects on kidney function/structure are dependent on the dose and duration of cigarette smoking. Smoking abstinence decreases the higher risk for proteinuria and CKD progression. Inhaled cadmium may be the biologic link between cigarette smoking and kidney dysfunction. Recent studies indicate that accumulation of cadmium in the blood mediates progression of CKD and places smokers at higher risk for all-cause mortality.ConclusionsSmoking cessation is an effective intervention to reduce the risk of onset and progression of CKD as well as to reduce smoking-attributable morbidity and mortality.
A descriptive study of stroke types, risk factors, clinical features, and outcomes in a tertiary hospital in Myanmar
Authors: Tun Thant Zin , Han Su Myat , Moji Kazuhiko , Matsui Mitsuaki 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Stroke is a leading cause of death in the world, and the burden of stroke is higher in low- and middle-income countries. Understanding the risk factors, complications, and outcomes of stroke are useful for healthcare planning and resource allocation. Little information on stroke is available for many low- and middle-income Asian countries; including Myanmar, which is the focus of this study.

Methods
A review was conducted of medical records for stroke admissions during 2017 in a tertiary hospital in Myanmar. The final diagnoses, risk factors, clinical features, complications, and outcomes were systematically collected from computer- and paper-based medical records.

Results
Of 908 cases analysed, haemorrhagic stroke was the most common type (49%), followed by ischaemic stroke (43%). Unimproved cases were 32%. Identified risk factors of unimproved cases were ‘haemorrhagic stroke’ [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.73], ‘having fever during hospitalization’ [aOR: 2.49], ‘Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) at the admission between 9 and 14’ [aOR: 4.33], and GCS less than 9 [aOR: 42.86].

Conclusion
This study is based on hospital medical records to assess stroke types, risk factors, clinical features, and outcomes in a tertiary hospital, in Nay Pyi Daw, Myanmar. The findings indicated that early case admission, improved hospital care management, and increased awareness of the modifiable risk factors within populations are crucial for preventing stroke incidents.
Development and content validity testing of a colonoscopy-specific patient-reported experience measure: the Patient Experience Colonoscopy Scale (PECS)
Authors: Rosvall Annica , Axelsson Malin , Toth Ervin , Kumlien Christine , Gershater Magdalena Annersten 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
In endoscopic care, favourable patient experiences before, during and after a colonoscopy are essential for the patient’s willingness to repeat the procedure. To ensure that significant experiences are measured, patients should be involved in creating the measurement instruments. Thus, the aim of the present study was to develop a colonoscopy-specific PREM by (1) operationalising patient experiences before, during and after a colonoscopy procedure and (2) evaluating its content validity.

Methods
The colonoscopy-specific PREM was developed in two stages: (1) operationalisation with item generation and (2) content validity testing. A previously developed conceptual model, based on a systematic literature review that illustrates patients’ (n = 245) experiences of undergoing a colonoscopy, formed the theoretical basis. To assess the degree to which the PREM reflected patients’ experiences before, during and after a colonoscopy procedure, content validity was tested—through face validity with healthcare professionals (n = 4) and cognitive interviews with patients (n = 14) having experienced a colonoscopy. Content validity index (CVI) was calculated to investigate the relevance of the items.

Results
The Patient Experience Colonoscopy Scale (PECS) is a colonoscopy-specific PREM consisting of five different constructs: health motivation, discomfort, information, a caring relationship and understanding. Each construct was defined and generated into a pool of items (n = 77). After face-validity assessment with healthcare professionals, a draft 52-item version of the PECS was ready for content validity testing by the patients. During cognitive interviews the patients contributed valuable insights that led to rewording and removal of items. Results from the CVI suggest that the PECS and its content are relevant (I-CVI range 0.5–1, S-CVI/Ave = 0.86). The final PECS consists of 30 items representing a colonoscopy-specific PREM.

Conclusion
The PECS is a new 30-item PREM instrument designed for adult elective colonoscopy patients after they have undergone the procedure. Each item in the PECS derives from a conceptual model based on a systematic literature review. Patients and healthcare professionals were involved in developing the PECS, which measures colonoscopy-specific patient experiences before, during and after the procedure. The content validity testing positively contributed to the development of the PECS. Psychometric properties need to be evaluated further.