bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the acute pathogenesis of spondyloarthritis/HLA-B27-Associated anterior uveitis based on genome-wide association analysis and single cell transcriptomics
Authors: Chen Shuming , Huang Weidi , Wan Qiaoqian , Tang Zichun , Li Xie , Zeng Fang , zheng Shuyan , Li Zhuo , Liu Xiao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background: Spondyloarthritis (SpA)/HLA-B27-associated acute anterior uveitis (AAU) presents recurring acute flare-ups, posing significant visual and financial challenges. Despite established links between SpA/HLA-B27-associated AAU, the precise mechanism remains unclear, necessitating comprehension for effective prevention and treatment.
Methods: To investigate the acute pathogenesis of SpA/HLA-B27-associated AAU, Mendelian Randomization (MR) and single-cell transcriptomic analyses were employed. MR incorporated publicly available protein quantitative trait loci data from previous studies, along with genome-wide association study data from the public databases. Causal relationships between plasma proteins and anterior uveitis were assessed using the two-sample MR. Additionally, co-localization analysis was performed using the Bayesian co-localization. Single-cell transcriptome analysis utilized the anterior uveitis dataset from the GEO database. Dimensionality reduction, clustering analyses, transcription factor analysis, pseudotime analysis, and cell communication analysis were conducted to explore underlying mechanisms.
Results: Mendelian Randomization analysis revealed that circulating levels of AIF1 and VARS were significantly associated with reduced risk in SpA/HLA-B27-associated AAU, with AIF1 showing a robust correlation with anterior uveitis onset. Co-localization analysis supported these findings. Single-cell transcriptome analysis identified predominant expression of AIF1 in myeloid cell, notably lower in the HLA-B27-positive group. Pseudotime analysis indicated dendritic cells' terminal positions in differentiation branches, accompanied by gradual AIF1 expression reduction. Cell communication analysis highlighted CD45 signaling pathway roles in myeloid dendritic cells and the APP signaling pathway in naive B cells within the HLA-B27-positive group.
Conclusions: AIF1 is essential in the pathogenesis of SpA/HLA-B27-associated AAU. Myeloid cell differentiation into dendritic cells and decreased AIF1 levels are pivotal in this process.
The PEP++ study protocol: a cluster-randomised controlled trial on the effectiveness of an enhanced regimen of post-exposure prophylaxis for close contacts of persons affected by leprosy to prevent disease transmission
Authors: Hinders Duane C , Taal Anneke T , Lisam Suchitra , Rocha Aymee M da , Banstola Nand Lal , Bhandari Prativa , Kishore Jugal , Fernandes Virginia O , Saha Abhijit , Chowdhury Abu Sufian , Noordende Anna T van 't , Mieras Liesbeth , Richardus Jan Hendrik , Brakel Wim H van 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Leprosy is an infectious disease with a slow decline in global annual caseload in the past two decades. Active case finding and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with a single dose of rifampicin (SDR) are recommended by the World Health Organization as measures for leprosy elimination. However, more potent PEP regimens are needed to increase the effect in groups highest at risk (i.e., household members and blood relatives, especially of multibacillary patients). The PEP + + trial will assess the effectiveness of an enhanced preventive regimen against leprosy in high-endemic districts in India, Brazil, Bangladesh, and Nepal compared with SDR-PEP.
Methods
The PEP + + study is a cluster-randomised controlled trial in selected districts of India, Brazil, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Sub-districts will be allocated randomly to the intervention and control arms. Leprosy patients detected from 2015−22 living in the districts will be approached to list their close contacts for enrolment in the study. All consenting participants will be screened for signs and symptoms of leprosy and tuberculosis (TB). In the intervention arm, eligible contacts receive the enhanced PEP + + regimen with three doses of rifampicin (150−600 mg) and clarithromycin (150−500 mg) administered at four-weekly intervals, whereas those in the control arm receive SDR-PEP. Follow-up screening for leprosy will be done for each individual two years after the final dose is administered. Cox’ proportion hazards analysis and Poisson regression will be used to compare the incidence rate ratios between the intervention and control areas as the primary study outcome.
Discussion
Past studies have shown that the level of SDR-PEP effectiveness is not uniform across contexts or in relation to leprosy patients. To address this, a number of recent trials are seeking to strengthen PEP regimens either through the use of new medications or by increasing the dosage of the existing ones. However, few studies focus on the impact of multiple doses of chemoprophylaxis using a combination of antibiotics. The PEP + + trial will investigate effectiveness of both an enhanced regimen and use geospatial analysis for PEP administration in the study communities.
Trial registration
NL7022 on the Dutch Trial Register on April 12, 2018. Protocol version 9.0 updated on 18 August 2022 https://www.onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en/trial/23060
RESIST: Randomized Encryption for Deduplicated Cloud Storage System
Authors: Dave Jay , Hegde Prithvi , Desai Hitaishi , Kanodia Anshul , Srivast Raj , Singh Kushagra 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Cloud computing offers scalable and ubiquitous storage services in a pay-as-you-go fashion. Data deduplication is one of the important technologies of cloud storage services. It reduces storage and communication costs by skipping uploading and storing redundant data copies. In order to protect data confidentiality, users generally encrypt data before uploading it to the cloud. Existing state-of-the-art deduplication security schemes either depend upon deterministic encryption mechanisms, that are exposed to online-offline dictionary attacks, or equip additional key server(s), which is not an economically efficient approach. In this paper, we propose a novel approach RESIST: randomized encryption for deduplicated cloud systems. RESIST encrypts the data using a random key for protection against online-offline dictionary attacks. In addition, the random key is encrypted using Merkle hash tree of data to limit its access to only data owners. Moreover, the previous data uploaders do not need to be online to share the key with subsequent uploaders. We analyze the security of RESIST using cryptographic proofs. We implement RESIST in a real cloud environment and compare its performance with the recent state-of-the-art schemes.
Modernization, education, and fish supply chain performance of Akit isolated tribe: the role of trust as mediator
Authors: Yulinda Eni , Hendri Ridar 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Although the Akit tribe fishermen are classified as an isolated community with low education, they play a crucial role in the fish supply chain system for export on Rupat Island, Riau, Indonesia. They have modernized fishing boats and gear, and they have received infrastructure support from the government to increase fish production and income. However, they still face poverty due to their heavy reliance on 'tauke,' individuals who provide capital loans but monopolize the purchase of fish at low prices. The tauke-fisherman relationship is built on mutual trust. Based on data collected from 168 Akit fishermen as respondents, we explored the role of trust (TRS) as a mediator in the effect of fisheries modernization (FMD) and fishermen education (FED) on fish supply chain performance (FSCP). Additionally, we also analized the role of FED as a mediator in the effect of government support (GSP) on the FSCP. Data collection was carried out using a closed questionnaire, and the data were processed using the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) method. Our findings indicate that FMD, TRS, and GSP have a significant impact on FSCP, while FED does not. TRS only acts as a mediator in the relationship between FMD and FSCP, whereas FED does not play a role. FED, however, serves as a mediator in the relationship between GSP and FSCP.
Fibrillar extracellular matrix produced by pericyte-like cells facilitates glioma cell dissemination
Authors: Vymola Petr , Borja Elena Garcia , Cervenka Jakub , Balaziova Eva , Vymolova Barbora , Veprkova Jana , Vodicka Petr , Skalnikova Helena , Tomas Robert , Netuka David , Busek Petr , Sedo Aleksi 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Gliomagenesis is associated with changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. We investigate the role of fibroblast activation protein-positive (FAP+) pericyte-like cells in ECM alterations in glioblastoma and their impact on glioma cells.
Methods
Bioinformatic analysis, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA were used to evaluate the expression of ECM proteins and FAP. FAP + pericyte-like cells were isolated from human glioblastomas, ECM production was quantified by ELISA and using mass spectrometry analysis of 3D matrices. Haptotaxis and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling activation assays were performed to assess the influence of the ECM on glioma cells.
Results
Higher FAP expression was associated with elevated levels of collagen I and fibronectin in glioblastoma. FAP + pericyte-like cells were present in regions rich in collagen I and fibronectin in biopsy material and produced substantially more collagen I and fibronectin in vitro compared to other cell types found in glioblastoma. Mass spectrometry revealed that in contrast to glioma cells, 3D matrices produced by FAP + pericyte-like cells were rich in collagen I and fibronectin and contained several key basement membrane proteins. ECM produced by FAP + pericyte-like cells enhanced migration and adhesion of glioma cells, including glioma stem-like cells, and promoted focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling.
Conclusion
This study establishes FAP + pericyte-like cells as crucial producers of an ECM rich in collagen I and fibronectin in glioblastoma microenvironment. Such ECM triggers FAK activation and facilitates the dissemination of glioma cells. Our data provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying gliomagenesis.
Genomic Variants of Cytokine Associated With Development and Complication of Type 2 Diabetes in a Group of Turkish Population
Authors: Ates Ilker , Guvenc Aysegul Kocatepe , Suzen Sinan , Irham Lalu Muhammad , Karakaya Asuman 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Type 2 Diabetes is a metabolic defect with an extreme enhancement of blood glucose level developed by the united effects of environmental and genetic factors and also related with micro and macrovascular complications. Researches pointed out the connections between disease and the inflammation. Cytokines have important role in administration of the homeostatic processes including tissue repair and inflammation. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of some cytokine genes have an impact on the expression levels of these genes enhancing the risk of the disease development. Ultimate studies demonstrated several liaisons between cytokine gene polymorphisms and the development and progression of type 2 diabetes. In this research, we intended to elicit the feasible relationship between TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 cytokine gene polymorphisms and development of Type 2 diabetes and the progression of the complications in Turkish subjects. The DNA specimens of all individuals are isolated then PCR-RFLP (Polymerase chain reaction-Restriction fragment length polymorphism) method was performed as genotyping analysis. Our data indicate that TNF-α (-308) and IL-1β (+ 3953) gene polymorphisms have significant effects on both development of the disease (3.27 and 2.15 respectively) and its complications (4.15 and 2.81 respectively). In regards to our results we suggest that TNF-α and IL-1β gene polymorphisms have an important role in developing and progressing of Type II diabetes in Turkish population.
Myoelectric motor execution and sensory training to alleviate chronic pain and regain movement in a paralyzed arm after an arm replantation: a case study
Authors: Kristoffersen Morten B. , Munoz-Novoa Maria , Buist Mirka , Emadeldin Mona , Reinholdt Carina , Ortiz-Catalan Max 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Following upper limb amputation, surgeries such as arm transplantation or replantation might be an option to restore function. After such surgeries, rehabilitation of the arm is needed. However, conventional rehabilitation is dependent on some volitional movement of the arm. If there is no or minimal movement of the arm, conventional rehabilitation might not be successful. The purpose of this study is to evaluate a novel combination of myoelectric motor execution (MME) and sensory training to reduce pain and improve upper limb function in a person with a highly impaired replanted arm.
Methods
The participant, a 72-year-old male, had his right arm replanted after a traumatic accident. No functional recovery was achieved following conventional rehabilitation and chronic neuropathic pain developed post-surgery. The participant then received 18 sessions of MME in which intended movements were decoded from the replanted arm’s myoelectric signals using machine learning and real-time feedback was provided on a screen. Nine sessions included sensory training using tactile grids where the participant discriminated different sensations.
Results
The participant regained active extension of the thumb (4 degrees), and regained active wrist movement (flex: 6 degrees, extend: 10 degrees), both of which were completely paralyzed prior the MME interventions. He also regained sensation in the thumb and fingers, and had a reduction in pain (weighted pain distribution 2.47 to 1.7)
Conclusion
MME is a novel virtual rehabilitation treatment which provides feedback using virtual limbs and serious games. MME combined with sensory training is a potential rehabilitation treatment for individuals with highly impaired arms which might ameliorate chronic neuropathic pain.
The Influence of Sn Content on the Electrochemical Performance and Discharge Characteristics of Al-0.2Mg-0.02In-0.04Ga-xSn-0.02Bi Alloy anodes in aluminum-air batteries
Authors: Quan Meng , Sui Yudong , Jiang Yehua , Xiao Tianxiang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

This study examines the impact of varying Sn content on the microstructure, electrochemical performance, and discharge characteristics of the Al-0.2Mg-0.02In-0.04Ga-xSn-0.02Bi aluminum anode in an alkaline electrolyte. The purpose of this study is to examine the best quantity of Sn element addition to enhance the discharge performance of aluminum alloy anodes. The study utilized scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze the characteristics of the alloy's secondary phase and the morphology of corrosion. In addition, the electrochemical performance and discharge properties of the alloy anode were assessed using various methods, including self-corrosion rate, open-circuit potential, potentiodynamic polarisation, alternating current impedance, and constant current discharge tests. Incorporating Sn elements, where Sn atoms are dissolved in the aluminum matrix, results in a significant increase in the overpotential for hydrogen evolution. This leads to a reduction in self-corrosion rates and an improvement in discharge performance. Nevertheless, as the tin (Sn) content rises, the greater amount and larger size of tin-rich phases create galvanic cells with the aluminum matrix, resulting in higher rates of self-corrosion and reduced discharge performance. When the Sn content in the alloy anode is 0.03%, the overall performance is optimal. Its anode utilization rate and energy density are 91% and 4213 mWh g− 1 (at 50 mA cm− 2), respectively. Compared to the Sn-free aluminum alloy anode, they have been improved by 33.6% and 1626 mWh g− 1, respectively.
Geadephaga beetles (Insecta: Coleoptera) from the sub-Antarctic Tierra del Fuego archipelago: Diversity, distribution and taxonomic key
Authors: Roig-Juñent Sergio , Griotti Mariana , Miras Diego , Carrara Rodolfo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The Tierra del Fuego Archipelago (TFA), situated at the southern tip of South America, confronts ecological challenges attributed to human activities, leading to direct consequences on regional biodiversity. Despite certain areas within the TFA being recognized as global conservation priorities, our comprehension of its invertebrates’ biodiversity remains incomplete. Insects, particularly Geadephaga beetles, play a crucial role in natural and agricultural ecosystems due to their sensitivity to environmental changes and integral functions as predators and granivores. In this contribution, we provide a comprehensive species list of Geadephaga beetles in the TFA, including a taxonomic key, illustrated images of adult specimens, and maps to enhance understanding of their distribution patterns. We report 52 Geadephaga species, including one Cicindelidae and 51 Carabidae, with ten newly recorded species and three new putative taxa. The distribution patterns of Geadephaga in the TFA indicate a higher diversity compared to other sub-Antarctic islands. Distinct patterns associated with the Sub-Antarctic Nothofagus forests, the Magellanic open moorlands, and the Patagonian steppe are identified, revealing the impact of climatic conditions on beetle diversity. This research significantly contributes to understanding the Geadephaga biodiversity and distribution patterns in the TFA, providing valuable tools for taxonomic identifications.
Quality of Life in Spinal Cord Injured Individuals After Surgery
Authors: Lima Deoclides , KAHOZI BENJAMIN SILWAMBA , Pokorny Gabriel , Almeida Nivaldo S. , Richard Douglas , Silva João Pedro G. , Araújo José William , Carneiro Geraldo S. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Spinal cord injury is a serious and often irreversible phenomenon that causes major disruption in the quality of life of affected patients, as it can cause severe limitations in performing day-to-day activities. Therefore, understanding the main factors that impact the quality of life of patients with spinal cord injuries is fundamental to finding the best rehabilitation alternatives. Methods: This was a retrospective, observational cohort study. The survey included posttraumatic SCI patients who underwent spinal surgery and attended spine clinics from April 2017 to December 2019. Demographic data, injury data and quality of life questionnaire (Pain Analog Scale and Short Form-36) scores were collected. The data were compared using ANOVA, and p values less than A value of 0.05 was used to indicate statistical significance. Results: Seventy patients—54 males and 16 females—were included in the study. The average age of the patients was 40 years. Patients with more severe lesions on the Frankel scale or with lesions in the cervical or thoracic regions had lower values in the physical condition subdomain. Conclusion: This study showed that patients with more severe injuries on the Frankel scale and those with injuries in the thoracic or cervical regions had worse functional capacity.
Association between ethylene oxide exposure and osteoporosis: a cross-sectional nationwide study of the US population
Authors: Wang Jin-zhou , Li Shan-shan , Pu Hong-yu , He Jiang-tao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Ethylene oxide is widely used in a number of specific industrial and medical applications due to its powerful sterilization and disinfection capabilities and as a raw material for chemical products. However, ethylene oxide is a toxic substance, and prolonged exposure or exposure at high concentrations may be hazardous to human health. Animal studies have demonstrated an association between health hazards and ethylene oxide exposure. Currently, the relationship between ethylene oxide long-term exposure and osteoporosis is unclear. Our aim was to investigate the correlation between blood ethylene oxide (EtO) concentrations and osteoporosis among the general population of the United States.
Methods
We gathered data on blood EtO levels and BMD from 2208 participants from the 2017–2020 and 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). The relationship between ETO and BMD was assessed using multivariable linear regression. To handle the nonlinearity, we fitted smooth curves. To better explain the nonlinearity, we employed a two-piecewise linear regression model. Threshold effects were determined through a two-part linear regression model.
Results
We found a negative linear connection between HbEO and BMD at all three testing locations. This negative correlation persisted even after quartile variables for HbEO were established. Those in the highest percentile of HbEO had decreases in total femur BMD of 0.03 g/cm2 and femoral neck BMD of 0.02 g/cm2, respectively, compared to those in the lowest quartile. However, there were differences in this unfavourable connection across a few categories.
Conclusions
The findings of our investigation indicate an inverse correlation between HbEO and BMD (bone mineral density) within the adult demographic of the United States. Additional inquiry is warranted to elucidate the exact physiological process by which exposure to HbEO leads to the development of osteoporosis.
Supervised machine learning for identification of glass properties: Towards structural Stability and performance
Authors: Bashir Abba , Terlumun Adagba. T , Malami Salim Idris , Jibril M. M , Usman A. G. , abba S.i , Hussain Saddam 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Classical and physics-based modelling is a basic way to describe how physical processes work, but it has many problems. For example, it uses a lot of computing power, takes a long time, and can't show how random and complicated processes work in glass science and engineering. On the other hand, machine learning (ML) models have been shown to get around this problem, especially when a precise and reliable estimate is needed. In this study, neural network (NN), adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), k-nearest neighbors (KNN), and robust linear regression (RLR) models were used to simulate the spring constant (K) at the junction of structural glass plates. The data from the experiment, which included axial load (N) and four different displacements (mm) and was collected in a total of 2879 cases, was pre-processed and split into 70% calibration and 30% verification. After that, sensitivity analysis was done, and 6 different model combinations (M1 through M6) were made. Based on the results of three performance evaluation criteria (R2, RMSE, and R), the ML model did well and could be trusted to estimate K. The ANN-M5, ANN-M6, ANFIS-M5, ANFIS-M6, KNN-M5, KNN-M6, RLR-M5, and RLR-M6 models, on the other hand, did 0.1 percent better than the rest. The model follows the latest best practices in machine learning and makes it possible to do experiments on low-power edge computing devices with minimal cost. KNN-M5 and KNN-M6 were the best models in terms of RMSE, but the confidence interval values showed that they were better than the best model (95%).