bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Amoebicidal Effect of Chlorine Dioxide Gas against Pathogenic Naegleria fowleri and Acanthamoeba polyphaga
Authors: Sohn Hae-Jin , Park A-Young , Lee Jeong-Heon , Yun Kyu-Hwa , Song Kyoung-Ju , Kim Jong-Hyun , Shin Ho-Joon 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The pathogenic free-living amoebae, Naegleria fowleri and Acanthamoeba polyphaga are found in freshwater, soil, and unchlorinated or minimally chlorinated swimming pools. N. fowleri and A. polyphaga are becoming problematic as water leisure activities and drinking water are sources of infection. Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) gas is a potent disinfectant that is harmless to humans. In this study, we examined the amoebicidal effects of ClO2 gas on N. fowleri and A. polyphaga. These amoebae were exposed to ClO2 gas from a ready-to-use product (0.36 ppmv/h) for 12, 24, 36, and 48 h. Microscopic examination showed that the viability of N. fowleri and A. polyphaga was effectively inhibited by treatment with ClO2 gas in a time-dependent manner. The growth of N. fowleri and A. polyphaga exposed to ClO2 gas for 36 h was completely inhibited. In both cases, the mRNA levels of their respective actin genes were significantly reduced following treatment with ClO2 gas. ClO2 gas has an amoebicidal effect on N. fowleri and A. polyphaga. Therefore, ClO2 gas has been proposed as an effective agent for the prevention and control of pathogenic free-living amoeba contamination.
Clinical and Radiolographical Results of Locking Plate with Medial Support Screw in Proximal Humerus Fracture – The more, the better?
Authors: Lim Jun-Hyuk , Hwang Jaeyeon , Kim Sungmin , Kim Myung-Sun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction: The calcar of the proximal humerus is a fundamental structure for medial humeral column support. This study aimed to assess the outcome of osteosynthesis across cases of unstable proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) with medial calcar comminution, following treatment with a PHILOS locking plate and medial support screw (MSS). Methods Between January 2010 and December 2018, we retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 121 cases of osteosynthesis for PHFs with medial column disruption. For the medial support, at least one oblique screw was inserted within 5 mm of the subchondral bone in the inferomedial quadrant of the humeral head. All patients were categorized into two groups: 26 patients in the single MSS group, and 95 in the multiple MSS group. Follow-up after at least an year involved clinical and radiographic outcome evaluations, and correspondingly measuring the Constant-Murley score, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scale, pain visual analogue scale (VAS), major complications, neck-shaft angle (NSA), humeral head height (HHH), and the eventual time to bone union. Risk factors for the major complications were assessed by multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results The cohort’s mean age was 64.4 ± 15.4 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 19.5 ± 7.6 months. At the final follow-up, between the single MSS and multiple MSS groups, no significant differences in the Constant-Murley score (p = 0.367), UCLA score (p = 0.558), VAS (p = 0.571), time to bone union (p = 0.621), NSA loss (p = 0.424), and HHH loss (p = 0.364) were observed. The incidence of complications (p = 0.446) based on the number of MSS were not significantly different. The initial insufficient reduction after surgery (of NSA < 125°) was found to be a significant risk factor for post-surgical complications. Conclusions To treat unstable PHFs, the use of at least one MSS along with a locking plate system is sufficient to achieve satisfactory outcomes. Successful operative treatment using a locking plate for PHF treatment is inherent in anatomical fracture reduction, coupled with medial column support.
Ketamine role in the treatment of Maternal depression: effects on offspring behaviour
Authors: Thanoon Taqwa B. , Althanoon Zeina A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Maternal depression during pregnancy adversely affects offspring neurodevelopment and behaviour. Typical antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have limitations due to risks of crossing the placenta. Ketamine has emerged as a promising alternative treatment. This research examined ketamine's effects on offspring of maternally stressed mice. Dams were divided into control, maternal adversity, fluoxetine, and ketamine groups. Open field, sucrose preference, elevated plus maze, and forced swim tests assessed offspring anxiety, anhedonia, and despair. Maternal adversity increased anxiety-like behaviours and ketamine or fluoxetine reversed some effects. However, fluoxetine more effectively mitigated despair in forced swim tests. Ketamine moderately alleviated anhedonia versus controls. Further research on dose-response and timing is needed to optimize ketamine treatment. Mitigating maternal depression is crucial for preventing maladaptive offspring neurobehavioral trajectories.
Efficacy of a Zn-based metalorganic framework doped with benznidazole on acute experimental Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Authors: Sosa-Arroniz Anahí , López-Monteon Aracely , Peña-Rodríguez Rodolfo , Rivera-Villanueva José María , Torres-Montero Jesus , Ramos-Ligonio Angel 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have are known to enhance the activity of compounds when used as drug carriers due to their ability to cross the cell membrane, allowing for controlled and selective release. In this study, the effect of BNZ@Zn-MOFs on the acute phase of infection was evaluated in a mouse model. The particles were obtained by electroelution (EL), doped with BZN by mechanochemistry and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). BNZ@Zn-MOF released 80% of the BZN after 3 h. No cytotoxicity was observed in NIH-3T3 and HeLa cells. Antiparasitic activity was observed in a model of acute experimental infection in BALB/c mice, using a dose 250 times lower than that required for free BZN. PCR analysis showed no parasite DNA in the tissues of treated mice. Hematoxylin-eosin staining revealed no apparent damage to tissue architecture. Serum levels of liver function enzymes remained unchanged. The use of suboptimal doses of BZN in this delivery system allows the maintenance of drug activity and may facilitate a significant reduction in the side effects caused by drug administration in the treatment of Chagas disease.
Methylene blue therapy versus standard treatment for acute-phase septic shock: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Luis-Silva Fabio , Menegueti Mayra Gonçalves , Peres Leandro Moreira , Sepeda Corina , Jordani Maria Cecília , Mestriner Fabiola , Petroski-Moraes Bruno Cesar , Brito-de-Sousa Joaquim Pedro , Costa-Rocha Ismael Artur , Cruz Bruna Lemos , Donadel Mariana Dermínio , de Souza Felipe Barizza , Reis Gustavo Henrique Martins , Basile-Filho Anibal , Becari Christiane , Evora Paulo Roberto Barbosa , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis , Auxiliadora-Martins Maria 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Methylene blue (MB) has been used to increase blood pressure in patients with septic shock by acting on guanylate cyclase and nitric oxide synthase (NOS).
Objective
To determine whether the administration of MB to patients in the initial phase of septic shock leads to a reduction in the use of vasopressors compared to that in the control group.
Methods
This was a 1:1 randomized clinical trial of two groups (methylene blue and control). We used MB after fluid replacement, vasopressors and antibiotic therapy. Patients received a loading dose of MB (3 mg/kg) and maintenance (0.5 mg/kg/h) for 48 hours. Vasopressor doses, laboratory test results, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, and hemodynamic monitoring were recorded before the infusion of MB (T1) and after 20 minutes (T2), 2 hours (T3), 24 hours (T4), 48 hours after the infusion started (T5) and 24 hours after weaning (T6).
Results
Methylene blue therapy started within 72 hours of septic shock. The methylene blue group showed an immediate reduction in NOR dosage, earlier reduction in VAS dosage, and higher IL-10 levels compared to the control group. Integrative network analysis highlighted NO and IL-10's roles in coordinating correlations with "Hemodynamic Monitoring" in the control and methylene blue groups, respectively.
Conclusion
Early methylene blue (MB) administration alongside standard septic shock treatment reduces vasopressor doses, possibly involving nitric oxide (NO) mechanisms. A possible mechanism of action may involve modulation of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators, enhancing immune response. However, larger and longer studies are needed for validation.
Trial registration:
Clinical registration: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-96584w4.
A Novel Weight Suppression Score Associates with Distinct Eating Disorder and Ultra- Processed Food Symptoms Compared to the Traditional Weight Suppression Measure Among Adults Seeking Outpatient Nutrition Counseling
Authors: Wiss David A. , LaFata Erica M. , Tomiyama A. Janet 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Weight suppression has been defined as diet-induced weight loss, traditionally operationalized as the difference between one’s highest and current weight. This concept has been studied in the context of eating disorders, but its value in predicting treatment outcomes has been inconsistent, which may be partially attributed to its calculation.
Method
The current study operationalizes a novel weight suppression score, reflecting the midpoint between the lowest and highest adult weights among adults (N = 272, ages 21–75, 75% women) seeking outpatient treatment for disordered eating. This report compared the traditional weight suppression calculation to the novel weight suppression score in a simulated dataset to model their differential distributions. Next, we analyzed shared and distinct clinical correlates of traditional weight suppression versus the novel weight suppression score using clinical intake data.
Results
The novel weight suppression score was significantly associated with meeting criteria for both eating disorders and ultra-processed food addiction and was more sensitive to detecting clinically relevant eating disorder symptomatology. However, the novel weight suppression score (vs. traditional weight suppression) was associated with fewer ultra-processed food addiction symptoms.
Conclusion
The novel weight suppression score may be particularly relevant for those with eating disorders and ultra-processed food addiction, with more relevance to individual eating disorder compared to ultra-processed food addiction symptoms. Consideration of the novel weight suppression score in future research on eating behaviors should extend beyond just those with diagnosed eating disorders.
Evaluation of Clinical, Laboratory Characteristics of Hemoglobin H Disease Patients from 2002 to 2022 Referred to Thalassemia Center, Bu-Ali Sina Hospital in Sari North of Iran
Authors: Naderisorki Mohammad , Ghorbani Parastoo , Karami Hossein , Darvishi-khezri Hadi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Alpha Thalassemia is a common hereditary anemia which results from decreased alpha-globin production. The clinical manifestations of these genetic abnormalities range from a silent carrier state, to fatal hydrops fetalis. Hemoglobin H disease (HbH disease) is type of α-thalassemia which is affect three of the four α-globin genes.
Methods
This study was conducted on all patients with hemoglobinopathy H (according to electrophoresis) registered in the thalassemia center of Bo-Ali Sina Hospital in Sari. 46 patients were identified during 20 years. After considering the inclusion criteria, demographic information, clinical information, and laboratory information were collected. The data were entered into SPSS version 21 software to perform statistical analysis.
Results
The results of the study showed that most of the patients were female and in the younger age group. Laboratory findings of patients, average hemoglobin and blood parameters were reported. The results showed that the most common symptoms among the patients were pallor and fatigue. Jaundice was the most common complication, followed by pneumonia and gallstones. It also showed that 32% of patients dependent on blood transfusion.
Conclusion
The average hemoglobin H level was significantly higher in individuals with fatigue and pallor compared to those without these signs. The most reported complications were jaundice. Patients with higher HbH levels significantly experienced more occurrences of cholelithiasis.
Landslide Susceptibility Prediction System
Authors: Vayadande Kuldeep , Sadake Siddharth , Sangwai Siddhi , Patil Manasvi , Kadam Sandesh , Daga Shashank 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The research presents an innovative landslide susceptibility prediction system that harnesses the power of machine learning and a data-driven approach. This system relies on a robust dataset encompassing five crucial parameters: slope, elevation, precipitation, soil type, and rainfall. To optimize predictive accuracy, four diverse machine learning algorithms—Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Random Forest, Logistic Regression, and Support Vector Machine (SVM)—are employed. Notably, the system stands out by focusing on real-time predictions without the need for a mapping interface. Users input specific location parameters, and the system leverages selected features to provide instantaneous landslide susceptibility predictions, thus enhancing efficiency while ensuring accuracy. The research outcomes contribute a comprehensive solution, integrating advanced machine learning techniques, a streamlined user experience, and a commitment to swift and precise predictions crucial for decision-making in landslide-prone regions. The iterative and data-driven methodology laid out in the research establishes a solid foundation for continuous refinement and adaptation to evolving environmental conditions, thereby ensuring the system's exceptional performance attributes in terms of predictive accuracy, real-time functionality, user efficiency, and long-term adaptability. This approach holds promise for addressing challenges in landslide management by providing a cutting-edge tool that combines accuracy with user-friendly features and adaptability to changing conditions. The impact of these varying accuracies is significant in shaping the practical implications of the system. The high accuracy of the CNN (with accuracy of 97%) makes it particularly suitable for applications where intricate spatial patterns are crucial for landslide susceptibility assessment. The versatility of the Random Forest model(with accuracy of 93%) makes it adept at handling diverse environmental parameters. Logistic Regression(with accuracy of 97%) might make it suitable for quick assessments, while SVM(with accuracy of 90%) is able to handle non-linear relationships adds a valuable dimension to the overall predictive capability.
Using in silico analysis to investigate the false positive potential of qPCR systems for potato disease diagnosis
Authors: Jiang junye , Feindel Will , Harding Michael , Feindel David , Bajema Stacey , Feng Jie 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is one of the most important global crops facing threats from different diseases. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential to control disease development and spread. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) has been widely used in potato disease diagnosis. In this study, we evaluated the specificity of 19 probe-based and four SYBR Green-based qPCR protocols for 17 potato diseases using in silico analysis. Primers and probes of those protocols were subjected to BLASTn analysis against the nucleotide collection (nr/nt) database and the whole-genome shotgun contigs (wgs) database of NCBI for the presence of primer/probe sequences in non-target species. Results showed that 12 of 23 qPCR protocols were not specific to the target pathogens. A qPCR experiment indicated that even nine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are present on the sequences of the primer/probe binding sites between the potato silver scurf pathogen Helminthosporium solani and its close-related species H. velutinum, the primers/probe specific to the former could amplify signals from the latter. These findings highlight the need for additional methods to enhance the diagnostic accuracy and new sequencing technologies such as next generation sequencing could provide useful information to develop specific diagnostic protocols for these pathogens.
Scanning strategies for the 316L part with lattice structures fabricated by selective laser melting
Authors: Huang Renkai , Wu Yunshu , Huang linqin , Pan Chunrong , Sun Yuchun , Tian Sukun , Wang Dongsheng , yang youwen 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The part with lattice structures generally consists of a framework and lattice structures. Since its slices contain the large-area contours of the framework and some small and discrete contours of the lattice structures, the use of the scanning strategy recommended by the SLM machine supplier may result in material and shape defects, especially in the case of lattice structures. Therefore, this article proposes a rectangular ring area-partition (RRAP) combined with 67o-interval rotating scanning strategy for the framework and a parallel line (PL) combined with 67o-interval rotating scanning strategy for the lattice structures. In order to study the influence of scanning strategy on the produced samples from the aspects of tensile strength and deformation, the self-developed scanning strategies and existing scanning strategies are used to fabricate 316L samples. The results showed that the 316L solid samples using the RRAP scanning strategy could improve the tensile strength and reduce the deformation. The 316L lattice sandwich panels that adopted the PL scanning strategy can obtain the smallest deviation value of the top surface. Moreover, the experiment of SLM forming two parts with lattice structures verify the effectiveness of the proposed scanning strategies.
Genome-wide association study and polygenic risk prediction of hypothyroidism
Authors: Rand Søren , Ahlberg Gustav , Tragante Vinicius , Monfort Laia , Zheng Chaoqun , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Klose Marianne , Teder-Laving Maris , Metspalu Andres , Poulsen Henrik , Ellervik Christina , Nygaard Birte , Erikstrup Christian , Bruun Mie Topholm , Jensen Bitten , Ullum Henrik , Brunak Søren , Consortium DBDS Genomic , - Estonian Biobank research team ,   23andMe Research Team -, Schwinn Michael , Ostrowski Sisse , Pedersen Ole , Sørensen Erik , Jonsdottir Ingileif , Gudbjartsson Daniel , Thorleifsson Gudmar , Holm Hilma , Saevarsdottir Saedis , Stefansson Kari , Olesen Morten , Bundgaard Henning , Ghouse Jonas 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We performed a genome-wide meta-analysis of hypothyroidism (114,813 cases and 1,043,713 controls), free thyroxine (186,409 individuals) and thyroid stimulating hormone (459,999 individuals). We have identified 326 loci associated with hypothyroidism, including 156 that have not been previously reported, with 25 loci linked through thyroid hormones. We found that many of the hypothyroidism risk loci regulate levels of blood cell counts and the circulating inflammasome. Using evidence from orthogonal gene-mapping strategies, we prioritized 250 putative genes and observed gene enrichment in functions of the immune system. We also developed a hypothyroidism polygenic risk score (PRS) from over 111,000 cases to address diagnostic challenges in patients with or at risk of thyroid hormone deficiency. We found that the PRS markedly improved risk prediction beyond that of prevalent autoimmune diseases. Further, when we combined the PRS with thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies, we observed the highest predictive accuracy. Among individuals with subclinical hypothyroidism, the PRS identified individuals at higher risk of progressing to overt disease. Our findings demonstrate the clinical potential of using a PRS to predict disease progression and onset, offering a promising tool for early intervention strategies that could prevent long-term morbidity associated with thyroid hormone deficiency.
Analysis of expression pattern and prognostic value of the HPSE in breast cancer through CD274/CTLA-4 immune checkpoint proteins
Authors: Kong Weijia , Zhang Ganlin , Wang Yue , Zhang Jiahui , Ding Tongjing , Chen Dong , Pan Yuancan , Yi Runxi , Yin Xiaohui , Wang Xiaomin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Heparanase (HPSE), an endoglycosidase that cleaves heparan sulfate, regulates various biological processes related to tumor progression. In the study, we further explored the prognostic value of HPSE through the TCGA database. Our model demonstrated that the integrating of HPSE with the clinical stage effectively predicts patients' survival time, highlighting high HPSE expression as a prognostic risk factor for breast cancer. Then the ROC curve (AUC of 1 year = 0.747, AUC of 3 years = 0.731) and DCA curve illustrated the satisfactory discriminative capacity of our model, emphasizing its valuable clinical applicability. Immune-related results showed that HPSE correlates strongly with immune infiltrating cells, immune-related genes, and the anti-cancer immunity cycle. In vivo studies have demonstrated that HPSE in breast cancer is associated with increased expression of immune checkpoint proteins CD274 and CTLA-4 and is positively correlated with the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. Meanwhile, we analyzed the 11 types of drugs that are sensitive to the HPSE gene. Our results show that HPSE can serve as an effective biomarker to predict the prognosis of breast cancer patients and reflect the impact of immunotherapy.
Vitamin D and Low Back Pain - An Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: gao zengjie , zhengqin You , Pu xiang 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Backgrounds:Low back pain (LBP) is one of the leading cause of health function loss worldwide.There has been ongoing controversy regarding whether vitamin D deficiency can cause lower back pain.This study assessed the impact of 25-OH-D on LBP using Mendelian Randomization.
Methods:Using GWAS databases, the exposure variable was set as 25-OH-D, and the outcome as low back pain. IVW, MR-Egger Regression, Simple Median, Weighted Median, and Weighted Mode methods were applied to assess the impact of 25-OH-D on low back pain.
Results: IVW analysis revealed no causal relationship between 25-OH-D and low back pain (OR = 1.14, 95% CI: 0.95-1.38, P = 0.165). The MR-Egger intercept test (P >0.05) did not detect pleiotropic effects, indicating robust causal inference using Mendelian Randomization.
Conclusion: No causal relationship between serum levels of 25-OH-D and low back pain was identified by MR analysis.
Coherent spin transport in a copper protein
Authors: Matsuura Yukihito 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Fast electron transport and spin selectivity/polarization in azurin, a species of copper protein, have been reported in relation to the chiral-induced spin selectivity of the peptide structure. To examine the structure-property relationship of these copper proteins, the coherent electron/spin transport was calculated using the Landauer model based on nonequilibrium Green’s functions and density functional theory. The calculated spin polarization of copper proteins was large. This phenomenon was strongly influenced by the spin density of the atoms in the ligand group, whereas the contribution of copper was negligible. The results suggest that spin polarization in copper proteins is enhanced by that of the ligand groups.