bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the role of sulfur nanoparticles as an anti-dermatomycotic agent against Pichia kudriavzevii
Authors: Biswas Mangal Chandra , Mukherjee Khushi , Sarkar Jit , (Ghosh) Reena Ray , Acharya Krishnendu 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Non-metal nanoparticles are now a days widely applied in different fields. Among various non-metal nanoparticles (NPs), sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) are one of the most significant and emerging nanoparticles. In this study, sulfur nanoparticles (SNPs) were prepared by eco-friendly method and well characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, and transmission electron microscopy. The prepared nanoparticles were spherical in shape with mean size of 35 nm and positive surface charge. Here, an attempt has been made to check the in vitro efficacy of sulfur nanoparticles against the dermatomycosis causing fungus Pichia kudriavzevii. Different antimicrobial experiments were performed to check the potential of SNPs against Pichia kudriavzevii. SEM micrographs and growth inhibition assay confirmed the efficacy of SNPs against the studied fungus. The antifungal activity of SNPs evaluated through the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The values of MIC were 50µM SNPs for the studied species, and MFC was 250µM for Pichia kudriavzevii. Treatment with SNPs was found to be effective in altering the cell morphology, inhibiting normal growth, and reducing the cell membrane content, mainly ergosterol of Pichia kudriavzevii. The status of present study can further be use to unravel the detailed mechanism of antifungal activity of sulfur nanoparticles against Pichia kudriavzevii for future workers.
Introducing the ASI-NPI project: preliminary analysis of a study exploring the role of cannabis, salience alterations and youth in determining psychotic symptoms severity
Authors: Boy Ottone Baccaredda , Merola Giuseppe Pierpaolo , Patti Andrea , Fascina Isotta , Bozza Bernardo , Flaccomio Dario , Faldi Marco , Pitt Giulia , Papini Luca , Ricci Camilla , Pecoraro Vincenzo , Ballerini Andrea , Ricca Valdo , Mauceri Francesco , Tavano Simone , Peroni Giulio , Gori Sara , Pisano Tiziana , Cohen David , De Cesaris Francesco 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
the present paper describes the preliminary results of a study centered on the effect of salience alterations and cannabis use on the intensity of psychotic symptoms in adolescent and adult cohorts. The exploratory analysis focused on cross-sectional scores at psychometric questionnaires of 64 participants allocated to 4 different subgroups. A hierarchical pattern in the psychopathology measures was observed in the adult subgroups, with Psychotic patients scoring higher in several domains than other patients from the Psychiatric and Neurologic Units; in turn, adolescents reported a more severe intensity of psychotic symptoms at the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale subscales (p-value: < 0.05) when compared to adult one, while no significant difference was observed in cannabis exposure or Aberrant Salience Inventory scores (p-value: 0.22). These results suggest that aberrant salience and, to a lesser degree, cannabis use might play a role in determining psychotic symptoms severity, especially in more at-risk life phases. Public Significance Statement: the present study displays how salience alterations in younger patients might lead to intensified psychotic symptoms, while exploring parallel psychopathological domains and explaining the layout of a wider project. The role of cannabis use in this equation is still to be clarified.
FAST, a method based on split-GFP for the detection in solution of proteins synthesized in cell-free expression systems
Authors: Pham Thuy Duong , Poletti Chiara , Tientcheu Therese Manuela Nloh , Cuccioloni Massimiliano , Spurio Roberto , Fabbretti Attilio , Milon Pohl , Giuliodori Anna Maria 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Backgroud
Cell-free protein synthesis systems (CFPS) have a wide range of applications ranging from educational to high-throughput screening. The detection of proteins in CFPS is accomplished through various methods, each with its own limitation: the use of radioactive labeling has become impractical for many laboratories due to the disposal costs, the incorporation of fluorescent tags often demands both costly and time-intensive procedures and the synthesis of large target-reporter fusions may be challenging owing to the limitation of the substrates.
Results
The Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) can reassemble from two fragments (split-GFP): a large fragment called GFP 1-10 and a small fragment called GFP11. Here, we developed the FAST (Fluorescent Assembly of Split-GFP for Translation Tests) method to monitor protein synthesis in CFPS. FAST relies on the fusion of the small tag GFP11 to virtually any gene to be expressed in CFPS. The in vitro synthesized protein:GFP11 can be rapidly detected in solution upon interaction with an enhanced GFP1-10 fused to the Maltose Binding Protein (MBP:GFP1-10) using a fluorescent reader. Furthermore, if required, detection can be coupled with the purification of the fluorescent complex using standardized MBP affinity chromatography.
To demonstrate the feasibility and reproducibility of the system, four E. coli genes of increasing length were fused to the GFP11 fragment and tested using FAST. Protein synthesis was carried out using both an in-house E. coli crude extract and a commercial E. coli reconstituted system for coupled transcription/translation. Our results demonstrate that FAST develops a fluorescent signal that is proportional to the amount of the synthetized protein:GFP11 fusions, with an estimated sensitivity of 8±2 pmoles of polypeptide. Fluorescence develops rapidly and plateaus after 4 hours. In addition, FAST allows to monitor antibiotic-dependent inhibition of translation in a concentration-dependent way.
Conclusions
FAST is a novel method for rapidly and easily tracking cell-free protein synthesis avoiding radiolabeling or electrophoretic separation. FAST is particularly suitable for screening panels of genes and factors/bioactive metabolites that influence translation, as well as in research areas where the products of CFPS are required for downstream analysis or testing, such as in the synthetic biology or protein design field.
A survey of gamma camera and SPECT/CT quality control programs across a sample of public hospitals in Australia
Authors: Ramkishore Nirvadesh , Crocker James , Martin Ruth , Yap Kenneth S , Brady Zoe 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The performance testing of gamma cameras and single photon computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) systems is not subject to regulatory requirements across states and territories in Australia. Internationally recognised testing standards from organisations such as the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) describe methodologies for tests that are recommended to be performed. However, variations exist in suggested quality control (QC) schedules from professional bodies such as the Australia and New Zealand Society of Nuclear Medicine (ANZSNM) and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM). In this study, a survey was conducted to benchmark current QA programs across a selected sample of eight standalone and networked Australian public hospitals. All participating sites had nuclear medicine technologists performing daily vendor-specific flood-field uniformity (intrinsic or extrinsic/system) verification without photomultiplier (PMT) tuning and CT QC. Weekly and monthly PMT tuning followed by intrinsic flood-field verifications were performed at most sites. At least half of the sites performed monthly centre of rotation (COR) offset verifications. SPECT/CT alignment calibrations and verifications were undertaken by service engineers at all sites, and periodic verifications by local medical physicists were performed on an ad-hoc basis at three sites and yearly at another site. Variations were observed for other periodic QC tests such as intrinsic/system spatial resolution, uniformity verifications using off-peak energy windows, planar sensitivity, multiple window spatial resolution, whole-body spatial resolution and count rate variability tests, SPECT image quality, spatial resolution, uniformity and sensitivity variability. Non-mandatory periodic compliance testing of the CT component of the hybrid SPECT/CT systems was performed at four sites. The survey also documented that most of the sites checked daily and periodic QC results against pass/fail criteria set by vendors. Additional analyses of the QC results, including trend analysis and periodic reviews, were not common practice and differed across the participating sites.
A usability study of a serious game to teach emotion recognition to people with Autism Spectrum Disorder and intellectual disabilities
Authors: Babulescu Adela , Manin Lena , Sabathe Constance , Monthier Célestine , Pellerin Hugues , Grossard Charline 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Context: People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have difficulty recognizing emotions. Many serious games aim at improving emotion recognition in this population. In this study, we evaluated the usability of the Emoface Play&Learn Emotions application, including its effectiveness at teaching people with ASD emotion recognition.
Method: Thirty-one people with ASD aged 5 to 35 years were trained to recognize the six primary emotions – happiness, anger, sadness, disgust, fear, surprise – using the app for 2 months. We performed pre- and post-tests to observe the evolution of the participants' performance following their training on the application. We considered participants' level in communication and social skills in order to define a profile of players who would most benefit from the game. Finally, we asked professionals to judge the usability and playability of the application as well as their satisfaction following the trial period.
Results: We found a learning effect after training, influenced by participants’ profiles; Participants with better social and communication skills progressed more than participants with lower levels in these skills. However, there was no effect of age or time spent on the game. Progress was better if the participant played longer sessions over fewer weeks. Feedback from professionals showed that the usability and playability concepts of the Emoface Play&Learn Emotions serious game are only partially exploited. However, the professionals did highly rate the interface and the visual characteristics of the application.
Limitations: The lack of control group prevents us from attributing participants’ progress to the serious game; moreover, we did not assess participants’ fine motor skills nor the caregivers’ level of mastery of technology, both of which could affect the use of the game.
Conclusion: The application seems promising for training emotion recognition in people with ASD. The impact of individual factors on the progress highlights the necessity of clearly defining the profile of people who would benefit from serious games. Professionals overall would recommend the application Emoface Play&Learn emotions.
CirROR1 upregulates CCNE1 expression to promote melanoma invasion and metastasis by recruiting KAT2A
Authors: Huang ChengHui , Sun Litong , Wang Qi 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in cancer occurrence and progression. However, the clinical significance of specific circRNAs in melanoma and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we found that CircROR1 was upregulated in metastatic melanoma cells and tissues, and gain-or loss-of-function assays showed that CircROR1 promoted melanoma cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis in vitro and in vivo. The intersection of mRNA microarray data and GEO datasets, as well as subsequent qRT‒PCR and Western blotting validation, confirmed that CCNE1 was a potential downstream target gene of CircROR1. Moreover, we demonstrated that CCNE1 was highly expressed in metastatic melanoma tissues, and high CCNE1 expression was associated with poor survival. CCNE1 knockdown partially attenuated the CircROR1 overexpression-induced increases in cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, simultaneously decreasing the high expression of MMP9 and increasing the low expression of TIMP2. Thus, CircROR1 plays a role in promoting malignant progression through CCNE1. Mechanistically, RNA pull-down and RIP assays indicated that CircROR1 bound to the KAT2A protein in the nucleus. ChIP assays showed that CircROR1 increased the enrichment of H3K9ac acetylation in the CCNE1 promoter, thereby upregulating CCNE1 expression. In conclusion, CircROR1 upregulates CCNE1 expression through KAT2A-mediated histone acetylation. Our research confirms the critical role of CircROR1 in melanoma invasion and metastasis, and CircROR1 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma treatment.
Assessment of Mechanical Properties of Concrete When Groundwater With Different Ferric Iron (Fe 3+ ) Concentration is Used for Mixing and Curing: a Case Study in Sylhet, Bangladesh
Authors: Wahid Chowdhury Mohammad Shams , Mistry Joy , Bhattacharjee Susmita , Shanto Shajjatul Islam 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Concrete's strength largely depends on the level of quality of the components used in its formation. One of the components required is mixing and curing water which has to be compatible with making concrete. The state of the water is of the utmost importance because unwanted substances can weaken the strength of concrete and trigger reinforcement inside to corrode. In Bangladesh, groundwater serves as a major source of clean water for most of the population living in the countryside. The aforementioned water has been reported to contain substantial amounts of iron in the form of Ferric Iron (Fe3+) in various regions of the country, especially in Sylhet. The impact of this exposure to iron (Fe) in water on the mechanical strength of concrete is unknown. In the current study, it was investigated the effects of varying iron (Fe) concentrations in groundwater sources when these were used for concrete mixing and curing. Experimental testing was done on the cement setting time, workability, compressive strength, and split tensile strength of concrete. Portland limestone cement of grade 42.5N was used to create a total of 270 nos. of M20 grade concrete cylinder samples, each with a measurement of 300 mm height and 150 mm diameter. Water was sourced from 05 different locations of Sylhet district with iron (Fe) concentration of 0.2 mgl− 1, 2.2 mgl− 1, 3.1 mgl− 1, 3.9 mgl− 1and 4.9 mgl− 1. Mechanical strength tests were performed on curing day- 07, 14 and 28. Initial setting time of cement was increased by 17% and final setting time increased by 7.5% when iron (Fe) concentration was increased from 0.2 mgl− 1 to 4.9 mgl− 1 in water. For 55% water/cement ratio, 29% slump was decreased. When iron (Fe) concentration was increased from 0.2 mgl− 1 to 4.9 mgl− 1 in both mixing and curing water, compressive strength of concrete reduced by 33% and splitting tensile strength reduced by 42%. From this study, groundwater source with iron (Fe) concentration within 2-2.5 mgl− 1 was observed as safe for concrete mixing and curing work.
Free Space Security Analysis of CV-QKD Transmission in Ground-to-HAP under Collective Attack
Authors: Alshaer Nancy , Ismail Tawfik 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In the contemporary digital era, ensuring the security of sensitive data and communication is of paramount significance. Encryption methods have been widely employed to safeguard data transmission over public channels. However, the exponential growth in computational power has led to concerns regarding the potential vulnerability of encryption methods. Consequently, breaking encryption poses a significant threat to data privacy. In response to these challenges, the field of quantum cryptography has emerged as a promising solution, offering a fundamentally unbreakable approach to secure communication. One of the key advancements in quantum cryptography is quantum key distribution (QKD). This secure communication mechanism relies on the principles of quantum mechanics to generate encryption keys, enabling secure information exchange between parties. This paper focuses on analysis of the quantum channel between the optical ground station (OGS) and the high-altitude platform System (HAPS). The research involves a meticulous examination and optimization of various system parameters such as performance secret key rate (SKR), electronic noise, modulation variance, and zenith angle. Remarkably, the SKR for a HAPS operating at a vertical altitude of 20 km, with a zenith angle of 20 degrees and a pulse generation rate of 500 MHz, is approximately 84 Mb/s and 44.5 Mb/s for homodyne and heterodyne detection, respectively. This information highlights the potential of quantum cryptography in providing secure communication channels that are resilient to cryptographic attacks.
Prognostic Impact of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Localized or Locoregionally Advanced Gallbladder Cancer: a Population-Based and Propensity Score Matched SEER Analysis
Authors: Xiong Yichen , Yang Ziyi , Gong Albie , Wu Ziyou , Liu Shilei , Zhu Yidi , Song Xiaoling , Chu Bingfeng , Wu Xiangsong , Gong Wei 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: The effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in gallbladder cancer (GBC) patients remains controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of NACT on overall survival (OS) and cancer specific survival (CSS) in patients with localized or locoregionally advanced GBC, and to explore possible protective predictors for prognosis.
Methods: Data for patients with localized or locoregionally advanced GBC (ie, categories cTx-cT4, cN0-2, and cM0) were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Patients in the NACT and non-NACT groups were propensity score matched (PSM) 1:3, the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were performed to analyze the impact of NACT on OS and CSS. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models were applied to identify the possible prognostic factors. Subgroup analysis was conducted to identify patients who would benefit from NACT.
Results: Of the 2,676 cases included, 78 NACT and 234 non-NACT patients remained after PSM. In localized or locoregionally advanced GBC patients, the median OS of the NACT and non-NACT was 31 and 16 months (log-rank P＜0.01), and the median CSS of NACT and non-NACT was 32 and 17 months (log-rank P＜0.01), respectively. Longer median OS (31 vs 17 months, log-rank P＜0.01) and CSS (32 vs 20 months, log-rank P＜0.01) was associated with NACT compared with surgery alone. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that NACT, stage and surgery type were prognostic factors for OS and CSS in GBC patients. Subgroup analysis revealed the survival hazard ratios (HRs) of NACT versus non-NACT for localized or locoregionally advanced GBC patients were significant in most subgroups.
Conclusions: NACT may provide therapeutic benefits for localized or locoregionally advanced GBC patients, especially for those with advanced stage, node-positive, poorly differentiated or undifferentiated disease. NACT combined with radical surgery was associated with a survival advantage. Therefore, NACT combined with surgery may provide a better treatment option for resectable GBC patients.
Medicinal plant use for goat disease and parasite control in Mhondoro Ngezi District
Authors: MOTSI RUSSEL PANASHE , Nyazika Ingrid M. , Thomas Munashe I. , Mutibvu Tonderai 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants for parasite control in communal areas of Zimbabwe has increased considerably. A survey was conducted to collect data on plant species diversity and use for goat parasite and disease control in Mhondoro Ngezi district. Household demographics, general livestock production, common disease and parasite challenges and control methods were recorded using a semi-structured questionnaire administered to a purposive sample of 100 goat farmers. Key informant interviews were also conducted. Data were analysed using the IBM SPSS Statistics and plant species importance was measured using relative frequency of citation. A total of 42 plant species with medicinal properties were reported in this study. Respondents above the age of 51 had most of the knowledge and practises in medicinal plant use. Commonly used plants, by frequency of mention were Wing pod (Murumanyama) (47.6%), Caustic vine (Runyokadombo) (28.6%), Broad-leaved coral-tree (Mutiti) (28.6%), Sow thistle (Rimiremombe) (26.2%) and Aloe Vera (Gavakava) (23.8%). The most common preparation process involved crushing of the plant parts (leaves, barks, roots, bulb, fruit and or whole plants) and mixing with water. Most of the respondents (87%) used both conventional remedies and medicinal plants to control goat parasites with medicinal plant use as an alternative. Knowledge exists on medicinal plant use in goat disease and parasite control in Mhondoro Ngezi district, which is a major drive towards carrying-out further research across the country.
Impact of Chemotherapy With Temozolomide on Cognition in High-grade Glioma Patients: a Retrospective Single Centre Study
Authors: Abete-Fornara Giorgia , Socaciu Petra Bintintan , Fanizzi Claudia , Fiore Giorgio , Locatelli Marco , Caroli Manuela 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Purpose: starting from a lack of precise and coherent data in literature, aim of this work is to retrospectively study the influence of chemotherapy with Temozolomide (TMZ) on a wide series of neuropsychological functions in a population of adult high-grade glioma patients.
Methods: an extensive neuropsychological battery was administered pre-operatively and after 6 (T1) and 12 months (T2) from surgery. After full recovery from surgery, TMZ was delivered concomitant to radiotherapy and, subsequently, adjuvantly for 5-day cycles per month. Parametric and non-parametric analyses were conducted to verify the influence of several aspects of chemotherapy on the adjusted scores of each cognitive test at the two post-operative follow-ups.
Results: patients with a lower adjuvant TMZ dosage reported a better performance at the visual attention test at T1, and at the deductive reasoning test at T2. Undergoing more than 8 cycles of adjuvant therapy was slightly associated with a better performance at the long-term verbal memory tasks at T2. No other associations were found with the other cognitive tests and autonomy scales administered.
Conclusions: TMZ proved to be a secure treatment with no negative side effects on cognition and on level of daily autonomy, even at the highest dosage used. This is a positive finding which enables clinicians to reassure patients about the absence of significant negative effects of TMZ on their daily life functioning. In this view, eventual cognitive changes during treatment might not be attributed to chemotherapy but to other events such as tumour relapse.