bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Kynurenines in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: An Influence of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lewkowicz Janina , Tankiewicz-Kwedlo Anna , Pawlak Dariusz , Kiluk Malgorzata , Lagoda Katarzyna , Kowalska Irina 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background:Due to their connection to inflammation and oxidative stress, tryptophan metabolites via the kynurenine pathway (KP) relate to important aspects of the pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and type 2 diabetes (T2D).
The study aimed to examine the relationship between parameters of HFpEF, measured with transesophageal echocardiography (TTE), and metabolites of the KP.
Methods: One hundred and twenty subjects, 60 with T2D and 60 without, and 55 healthy controls were prospectively included in the current study. Liquid chromatography was used to quantify metabolites of KP in plasma. TTE was performed to assess the systolic and diastolic function of the left ventricle (LV).
Results: Patients with T2D and HFpEF showed an increase in TRP, KYN, and AA concentrations (p=0.001, p<0.0001, p<0.0001, respectively) with a concomitant decrease in 3-HKYN (p=0.0009), and QA (p=0.0029) compared with those with HFpEF without diabetes. There were no significant differences in the morphology of the LV or left atrium, and even the parameters of LV diastolic function were comparable in both subgroups (HFpEF with T2D and HFpEF without T2D). Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) was significantly lower in HFpEF with T2D than in the subgroup of HFpEF patients without T2D (p=0.0026).
Conclusion: Plasma levels of the kynurenine pathway metabolites were elevated in patients with HFpEF, and especially in patients with HFpEF and T2D. An increase in KP plasma metabolite concentrations were associated with LV remodeling and diastolic dysfunction.
On the geometry of diffeological vector pseudo-bundles and infinite dimensional vector bundles: automorphisms, connections and covariant derivatives
Authors: Magnot Jean-Pierre 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
We consider here the category of diffeological vector pseudo-bundles, and study a possible extension of classical differential geometric tools on finite dimensional vector bundles, namely, the group of automorphisms, the frame bundle, the space of connection 1-forms and the space of covariant derivatives. Substential distinctions are highlighted in this generalized framework, among which the non-isomorphism between connection 1-forms and covariant derivatives. Applications not only include finite dimensional examples with singularities, but also infinite dimensional vector bundles.
Transit-Oriented Development Typology in Middle East's Metropolitan Context: Iran as a Case Study
Authors: Abkooh Shirin Sabaghi , Rahnama Mohammad Rahim 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Recently, there has been a growing global interest in typology as an effective mechanism for streamlining contextual complexities and facilitating the implementation of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), particularly in the vicinity of rail transportation systems. However, despite the precedence set by early adopters in the field of TOD, countries in the Middle East as newcomers lack comprehensive typological studies. Addressing this research gap, this paper endeavors to devise a TOD typology tailored to the geographical area encompassing a 400-meter radius around 33 active metro stations in Mashhad, Iran. Employing a systematic approach, the study constructs a spatial model integrating the 6D model (encompassing destination, distance, density, diversity, design, and demand management) alongside the k-means cluster analysis technique, thus contributing methodologically to the advancement of TOD typological methodologies. The findings delineate five discernible TOD archetypes, namely “urban neighborhoods,” “city commercial centers,” “specialized healthcare activity centers,” “recreational-educational activity centers,” and “transit centers.” Notably, the station areas categorized as “city commercial centers” exhibit the highest prevalence rate (78.78%). Nonetheless, the identification of the remaining four types bears significance, with the study notably introducing two novel typologies to the extant literature, namely the “specialized healthcare activity center” and the “recreational-educational activity center”, which hold applicability beyond the Iranian context. This research underscores the relevance of TOD typologies in informing urban development strategies and offers insights pertinent to transit-oriented planning endeavors.
Sweeping effects on curling and friction estimation
Authors: Sonobe Hinako , Aoki Yamato , Miya Osuke , Murata Kei , Ogihara Eri , Okawara Yasuaki , Ozaki Sachi , Tomizawa Nishiki , Murata Jiro 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Sweeping using brushes in curling games is widely performed not only to extend the stone-stopping range but also to control curls, although little scientific evidence supports the curl-controlling effects. In this study, we performed a measurement to examine the effects by developing a stone-shooting machine-SSM-I. Additionally, a simple method for measuring friction in split time is proposed. The results suggested the positive effects of left-right asymmetric sweeping with 95% reliability for sweeping on the opposite half-side to assist curling. We also confirmed the effect of stopping-range extension with 99% reliability. Along with stone checking and inspecting their bottom roughness, SSM-I can assist in assessing the friction conditions of ice.
Effect of Axial Bruxism Bite Force on Titanium Alloys Biomaterials Experimental Chewing Test and 3D Finite Element Simulation
Authors: YILMAZ Efe Cetin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Bruxism can be defined as the process of direct contact with teeth and dental materials with an involuntary jaw-tightening movement. In this process, teeth and dental materials can be exposed to various damage mechanisms. This study aims to analyze the wear behavior of cp-Ti, Ti-5Zr, and Ti-5Ta alloys, which are frequently preferred as dental materials in the human body, under different Bruxism wear processes by experimental in vitro chewing cycle and finite element analysis simulation method. Cp-Ti and titanium alloy test specimens with cylindrical geometry were exposed to a direct every-contact wear mechanism for 30 seconds under 100N bruxism chewing bite force. The bruxism chewing cycle continued for 300 minutes at a frequency of 1.8 Hz. Microanalysis of the wear surfaces of the samples after the experimental study was carried out with Scanning Electron Microscopy(SEM). The Bruxism wear volume loss that occurred in the wear area of the test specimens was measured with a 3D non-contact profilometer. The results obtained within the scope of this study showed that the Bruxism wear resistance increased by adding zirconium and tantalum to pure titanium material. In axial Bruxism bite forces, the least wear volume loss occurred at 90° bite forces chewing process. However, in the Finite Element Analysis simulation, it was observed that the maximum stress area was evident in the implant structure at 75° bite force chewing process. This will make it difficult for the implant to osseointegration within the body and will cause various damage mechanisms to the integrity of the implant.
Perineural invasion on prostate cancer is associated with Schwann cells and circadian rhythm-related genes disruption: a bioinformatics approach
Authors: Silva Sérgio Lopes , Neta Genilda Castro Omena , Rocha Rodger Marcel Lima , Duarte Ana Kelly da Silva Fernandes , Fraga Carlos Alberto de Carvalho 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Studies have shown that Schwann cells participate in the tumor microenvironment, producing several factors that benefit cancer cells. During this process, Schwann cells are dedifferentiated and help the process of cancer cellular proliferation. These cells then migrate to the region close to the tumor tissue and assist the development of the neoplastic cell. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the influence of Schwann cells on prostate cancers. We investigated the association between Schwann cells and prostate cancer often associated with perineural invasion. Initially, we used the GEO Datasets platform from the GEO repository to identify a database reporting gene expression in Schwann cells in a neoplastic context. Briefly, the database contains the expression results from experiments in which two factors produced by tumor cells were added to cell cultures. Comparisons were made between samples from the first and third passages. We then used these data to perform differential gene expression analysis and crossed data from upregulated genes with differential expression data from negative and positive perineural invasion prostate cancers. We observed that the “axon guidance” pathway was upregulated in negative perineural invasion prostate cancers. Meanwhile, upregulated mRNAs activate the “axon guidance” and, together with ROBO1 and MPZ upregulation, inhibit perineural invasion pathways. Both genes are also associated with Schwann cell migration inhibition. PER3, NR3C1, PPARGC1A, TIMP3, ID2, PDE6B, and CAVIN1 were upregulated in negative perineural tumors, while SLC25A10 was upregulated. We also observed upregulated genes in positive perineural invasion: PPARGC1A, TIMP3, S100A8, ID2, DEFB1, AQP3, ASS1, PDE6B, NEFH, and CAVIN1. AQP3 and NEFH were upregulated only in positive perineural invasion tumors and PER3 and NR3C1 were upregulated only in negative perineural invasion samples. We believe that Circadian rhythm and/or melatonin disruption could be associated with Schwann cells dedifferentiation; consequently, Schwann cells produce different factors that will participate in various processes of tumor progression. These processes may also be involved in tumor invasion into the perineural tissue in prostate cancer.
Clock-related genes disruption and melatonin administration are associated with melanoma and oral cancer, but not with skin carcinoma
Authors: Duarte Ana Kelly Fernandes , Gomes Emisael Stênio Batista , Rocha Rogério Gonçalves , Guimarães André Luiz Sena , Omena Genilda Castro , Rocha Rodger Marcel Lima , de Farias Karol Fireman , Koike Bruna Del Vechio , Fraga Carlos Alberto de Carvalho 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Melatonin plays an important role in the regulation of circadian clock genes, whose deregulation contributes to cancer development. In this study, we first performed a bioinformatic analysis for melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancer, and oral squamous cell carcinoma to evaluate what clock-related genes are deregulated when compared to normal tissue. Further, we administrated melatonin in cell cultures for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, skin melanoma, and oral squamous cell carcinoma to observe changes in cancer cell phenotypes. Later, we evaluated gene expressions associated to clock genes, cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. In summary, clock-related genes are deregulated in both cancers. Skin melanoma and oral cancer presented commonly deregulated clock related genes and were associated with poor survival and chemoresistance, according to bioinformatic analysis. In cell culture, melatonin administration increased Per2, Cry1, Cry2 and Bmal1 mRNA expression levels and decreased Clock gene mRNA levels. Per2, Cry1, Cry2, and Bmal1 genes belong to tumor suppressor genes that can control cell proliferation, cell death, DNA damage, and repair system. Te hypothesized that changes in the expression of clock related-genes in cancer could be responsible for metabolic changes that could lead to the cancer aggressiveness. Melatonin administration showed changes in melanoma and oral cancer phenotypes. Melatonin also seems to influence melanoma and oral tumor progression through Mki67, Hif-1a, Vegfa, Col1a1, Cdh1, Casp3, Bax, Bcl2, Mmp9, Per2, Cry1, Cry2, Bmal1 and Clock modulation.
Concept of mental fatigue in lay people: a survey-based examination using situational vignettes
Authors: Csathó Árpád , Simon Eszter , Linden Dimitri , Matuz András 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background.
Mental fatigue is a common subjective experience, often caused by prolonged mental workload. While there are several scientific theories about the nature of fatigue and its causes, no previous studies have examined laypeople’s opinions on what task characteristics they consider as main causes of mental fatigue. Therefore, this study explores laypeople's concepts of fatigue using situational vignettes.
Methods. Participants read descriptions of administrative tasks with low (n = 212) or high workload (n = 177) and rated 1) which general task characteristics are involved, and 2) which task characteristics most likely cause fatigue. Participants’ mood states were also assessed, namely anxiety, depression, and fatigue catastrophizing. Mixed-ANOVA, robust regression, and exploratory factor analysis were used to analyse the data.
Results and Conclusion. The analyses revealed significant links between fatigue and task characteristics, indicating that underload (e.g. boredom) as well as overload (e.g. energy demand) were considered particularly fatiguing. On the one hand, fatigue was associated with feeling of boredom, drowsiness or discouraging experienced during a prolonged task, and on the other hand, with the difficulty, the energetic demand of the task. In general, the results suggest that non-scientific opinions are diverse regarding the potential causes of fatigue.
Echocardiographic changes in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Alnaqawah Dana , Samra Majd , Marwan Chamieh 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objective
To study cardiac echocardiographic changes in patients with coronary artery disease.
Study location:
Cardiac Ecology Unit, Damascus Hospital (Al-Mujtahid), Damascus, Syria.
Study period:
The period extending between 1/8/2018 and 1/8/2023.
Type of study:
Descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study
Patients:
The study included 200 patients who were admitted to Damascus Hospital in the Cardiac Echo Unit for investigation of retrosternal chest pain without a history of coronary artery disease.
Results
The incidence of dyskinesia was higher among myocardial infarction patients without ST displacement (P = 0.000), dyskinesia was more common among patients with unstable angina (P = 0.003), and in our study akinesia was more common among patients with unstable angina and patients with infarction with ST displacement. ST (0.353), mitral valve insufficiency was more common in myocardial infarction with ST displacement, while tricuspid valve failure was more common in patients with unstable angina, pulmonary valve insufficiency was more common in patients with infarction without ST displacement, while aortic valve failure was more common in patients with infarction with ST displacement. ST (P < 0.05), and it was found that dyskinesia, akinesia, cardiac aneurysm, and all valve lesions except aortic valve insufficiency are common in patients with arterial hypertension (P < 0.05), and cardiac aneurysm and all valve lesions except tricuspid valve insufficiency are common in patients Diabetes (P < 0.05), myocardial aneurysm, and valve lesions, except for mitral valve insufficiency, are common in patients with high blood cholesterol (P < 0.05), and we found a statistically significant relationship between the expansion of the heart chambers and the type of disease. Coronary artery disease (P < 0.05). There is a statistically significant difference in ejection fraction depending on the type of coronary artery disease. We found that the average ejection fraction as the obstruction and damage to the heart muscle becomes more severe, the ejection fraction decreases in a direct relationship (p = 0.000).
Conclusion
The echocardiogram had a role in evaluating the function of the four cardiac chambers, especially systolic, diastolic, ejection fraction and other functions, which had great significance and value in diagnosing some complications early.
Effects of COVID-19 on the provision of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in health care facilities in the Far-North Region of Cameroon
Authors: Nounkeu Carole Debora , Massop Giequel Corniche Noumbissi , Koyalta Donato , Ndongo Chanceline Bilounga , Ouabo Florent Kamkumo , Nono Bertin , Ngoufack Marie Nicole , Dharod Jigna Morarji , Juillard Catherine , Chichom-Mefire Alain , Nguefack-Tsague Georges 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Worldwide, the Joint Monitoring Program reports that one in four health care facilities (HCFs) lack functional water supply on premises, one in three lack hand hygiene facilities, and one in three lack adequate infectious waste disposal. The COVID-19 pandemics shed light on the lack of investments, the absence of infrastructures, education and policies related to WASH as well as revealed insufficient investment in healthcare safety; and has brought WASH services as non-negotiable for HCFs.
Methods
This study used a cross-sectional pre-post COVID-19 framework to determine the proportion of HCFs: meeting basic WASH services and, which WASH services improved post-COVID-19 in the Far-North Region of Cameroon.
Results
A total of 97 (23.04%) HCFs among the 421 that are found in the Far-North region were surveyed and located in eight (25%) of the 32 Health Districts. They corresponded to the integrated health centers category (79.4%) and the survey’s respondent was the chief of the HCF (92.8%). Approximately 75.3%, 0.0%, 48.5%, 46.4%, and 6.2% of HCFs respectively met thresholds for basic water, sanitation, hygiene, waste management, and environment cleaning services. When comparing pre- vs. post COVID-19 periods, a significant increase (8%) was noted in the proportion of HCFs as of optimal handwashing practices-related services (P = 0.0026). There was also a significant increase (p = 0.007) in the proportion of HCFs with cleaning protocols available. Further, none of the HCFs fulfilled all the criteria to meet basic services for all the five WASH services.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the response to the COVID-19 pandemics only partially improved WASH services-related infrastructures in HCFs of the Far-North Region of Cameroon. The COVID-19 pandemics was a missed opportunity to strengthen WASH services. There should be a continuing encouragement of governments and funding agencies in planning and budgeting WASH in healthcare-related research and issues, and enabling the maintenance of existing WASH infrastructures in healthcare settings.
Geographic region and health outcomes: Examining health determinants and outcomes of older adults across Ghana’s North‒South divide
Authors: Kodwo-Nyameazea Yale , Amponsah Nana-Akua 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Healthcare services and outcomes are often not evenly distributed across geographic regions. This study used the harmonized Research on Early Life and Aging Trends and Effects (RELATE) dataset to compare health outcomes across the North‒South divide of Ghana and determine the factors underlying the difference in health outcomes. Although the literature indicates that the South has more health resources and better health indicators, the study found that health outcomes in the North were comparatively better than those in the South. According to the optimal health index scores, people in the North are living at 86 percent of their optimal health, while 82 percent are living at their optimal health in the South. In both regions, optimal health was substantially influenced by work-related physical activity and age. Older adults whose work involved vigorous activities had better health outcomes, but health outcomes decreased as people aged. The study also revealed that healthcare use and sex influence health outcomes, particularly in the southern region. The results showed that older adult women in the South have poorer health outcomes than their male counterparts. It has also been shown that older adults in the South are more likely to contact health professionals for medical conditions.
Risk factors and management of urinary tract infections among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Jazira Specialist Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Jayte Mohamed 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes if left untreated. Data on UTI burden and associated risk factors among pregnant women in Somalia is limited.
Methods
A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between June-December 2020. A systematic random sampling technique was used to enroll 392 pregnant women. Data was collected via interviews and medical record review. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify independent risk factors.
Results
The reported UTI prevalence was 38.3%. Factors independently associated with UTIs included: low education level (AOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3–3.4), handwashing < 5 times/day (AOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1–2.9), and prior UTI history (AOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.6–3.9). The majority (63.8%) reported ‘good’ household hygiene. Of those using medications during pregnancy, 38.3% used drugs and 13.3% received antibiotics.
Conclusion
Targeted interventions are needed focused on women’s empowerment and hygiene promotion, antibiotic stewardship, and developing clinical guidelines to reduce UTI burden in this setting. Further research is warranted to address barriers to optimal management.
Financial and numerical abilities: patterns of dissociation in neurological and psychiatric diseases
Authors: Burgio Francesca , Danesin Laura , Wennberg Alexandra , Tonini Elisabetta , Galetto Valentina , Sivieri Silvia , Giustiniani Andreina , Palmer Katie , Meneghello Francesca , Sorarù Gianni , Zettin Marina , Arcara Giorgio , Benavides-Varela Silvia , Semenza Carlo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The present work investigates whether financial abilities can be associated with numerical abilities and with general cognitive abilities. We compared performance on numerical and financial tests, and on tests routinely used to measure general cognitive performance, in healthy controls and in a group of people with heterogeneous pathological conditions including mild cognitive impairment, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and schizophrenia. Patients showed lower performances in both numerical and financial abilities compared to controls. Numerical and financial skills were positively correlated in both groups, but they correlated poorly with measures of general cognitive functioning. Crucially, only basic financial tasks -such as counting currencies- but not advanced ones -like financial judgments- were associated with numerical or general cognitive functioning in logistic regression analyses. Conversely, advanced financial abilities, but not basic ones, were associated with abstract reasoning. At a qualitative analysis, we found that deficits in numerical and financial abilities might double dissociate. Similarly, we observed double dissociations between difficulties in financial abilities and cognitive deficits. In conclusion, financial abilities may be independent of numerical skills, and financial deficits are not always related to the presence of cognitive difficulties. These findings are important for both clinical and legal practice.