bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Structure-Functional Activity of Pyrone Derivatives for Inhibition of Barnacle Settlement and Biofilm Formation
Authors: Khan Mo Aqib Raza , Wang Bo-Wei , Lin Hsiu-Chin , Yang Yu-Liang , Liaw Chih-Chuang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Naturally occurring 6-pentyl-2H-pyran-2-one and its synthetic analogues greatly inhibit the settlement of Amphibalanus amphitrite cyprids and the growth and biofilm formation of marine bacteria. To optimize the antifouling activities of pyrone derivatives, this study designed pyrone analogues by modifying functional groups, such as the benzyl group, cyclopentane, and halides, substituted on both sides of a pyrone. The antifouling effects of the synthesized pyrone derivatives were then evaluated. Substituting nonpolar parts—such as the aliphatic, cyclopentyl, or phenyl moieties on C-5 or the furan moieties on C-3—not only increased antibacterial activity and inhibited biofilm formation but also inhibited barnacle cyprid settlement.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Frontline Health Workers in Assam (India): Roles and Challenges faced by the Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs)
Authors: Parmar Daksha , Bedamatta Rajshree , Graeve Hilde , Shome Biraj Kanti , Mairembam Dilip Singh 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

COVID-19 was one of the most devastating health crises that the world witnessed in contemporary times. Health workers were at the forefront, responding to the crisis, saving millions of lives. Faced with an unprecedented situation, India’s frontline health workers (FHWs) in the public health system, played a critical role as first responders. There are limited studies that have explored and documented their contribution from the north eastern states of India.
Methods: In this qualitative study, we discuss the roles of FHWs during COVID-19, and the challenges they faced while working at the primary level public health facilities. The study was conducted in Dibrugarh, Dhubri, Kamrup and Kamrup Metropolitan districts representing spatial, socio-economic and geographical diversity and disparity of the state. Multiple modes of inquiry (in-depth interviews, group discussions, and telephonic interviews) were conducted with the ASHAs and other stakeholders.
Findings: The ASHAs have performed different roles in terms of creating awareness, health education, adopting preventive measures, disease surveillance, testing, quarantine and isolation of patients. They were instrumental in continuation of the essential health services and COVID-19 vaccination. Tremendous increase in their tasks, long working hours without proper break, insecure and risky work conditions without adequate safety measures, stigma, violence, and discrimination at community level, frequently changing guidelines, delayed and inadequate compensation were some of the main challenges faced by the ASHAs in Assam.
Conclusions: Working at the bottom of the public health system hierarchy, the ASHAs in rural and urban areas performed most of their responsibilities despite risks. Their contribution in increasing the community’s trust in the public health system, through their educational role and by being the first point of healthcare providers has been phenomenal.
High vs Low CPAP Strategy with Aerosolized Calfactant in Preterm Infants with Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Kaluarachchi Dinushan , Gerday Erick , Bahr Timothy , Zapata Henry , Lasarev Michael , Guthrie Scott , Minton Stephen 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background. CPAP levels used for respiratory distress syndrome are variable. Optimal CPAP strategy to prevent CPAP failure is unknown.
Objective. To evaluate the risk of CPAP failure in infants treated with high vs low CPAP strategy while receiving aerosolized calfactant in the AERO-02 clinical trial and AERO-03 expanded access program.
Methods. Comparisons were made between low and high CPAP groups (Low, 4-7 cm H20; High, 8-10 cm H20).
Results. Low and high CPAP groups had 215 and 106 infants respectively. CPAP failure and pneumothorax were not different between the groups. Odds of CPAP failure was not different after adjustment for baseline characteristics (OR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.29, 1.24).
Conclusion. We found no difference in CPAP failure among infants who received aerosolized calfactant that were treated with high vs low CPAP strategy. Efficacy of high CPAP strategy with less invasive surfactant treatment needs to be evaluated in future studies.
Analysis of lymph node metastasis and prognostic risk factors in superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Wan-Wan , Su Tian-Chang , Shen Meng-Di , Wu Qiong , Zhao Li , Deng Min 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the risk factors for lymph node metastasis (LNM) and prognosis in superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SESCC).
Methods: The clinical andpathological data of 222 patients with SESCC who were treated with surgery and pathologically confirmed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University from January 2010 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, and tumor specimens were examined under a microscope. Clinical factors and LNM were analyzed with a chi-squared test and Mann-Whitney U test. Clinical factors and overall survival were evaluated using multivariate Cox regression analyses.
Results: The LNM rate of patients with SESCC was 11.26% , and the LNM rates of M1, M2, M3, SM1, SM2 and SM3 were 2.2% , 0%, 3.6%, 0%（0/2）, 7.7%, 26.1%, respectively. Based on univariate analysis, tumor length, differentiation degree, invasion depth, and presence of cancer thrombus in the vasculature were correlated with LNM (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a depth of tumor invasion ≥2.4 cm, differentiation degree and depth of invasion were independent risk factors for LNM in SESCC. The median follow-up was 57 (30, 93) months, 23 (5.2%) patients were lost to follow-up, and 32 patients died. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates were 96.8%, 92.4%, and 86.3%, respectively, and the disease-free survival rates were 95.9%, 92.4%, and 85.9%, respectively. Cox regression analysis showed that low degree of differentiation, deep infiltration depth, and comorbidities, and positive lymph node metastasis were independent risk factors for prognosis.
Conclusion: For patients with SESCC with tumor diameter <2.4 cm, moderately to high differentiated tissue, mucosal layer location, the risk of LNM is small, and ESD is feasible.
COVID-19 Stress, Facebook Use Intensity and coping strategies of Filipino students: An analysis of data collected during a pandemic
Authors: Balberan Jaren Kim , Bengwasan Peejay 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with significant levels of stress worldwide. For students, the shifts from in-person to virtual platforms may not only affect learning but also other aspects of their lives, which may yield certain levels of distress due to the uncertainties of the pandemic. Because of pandemic-related restrictions, students have turned to online resources and platforms such as social media for information, entertainment and social connection. Given findings that display the interaction of social media on different forms of stress, there is a need to look at how COVID-19 stress, which has created even more distance between students and typical forms of coping. Hence, this quantitative study explored the relationship between COVID-19 stress and Facebook use intensity among college students. The regression analysis of responses from 220 college students indicated a strong positive relationship. As college students’ COVID-19 stress increased, Facebook use intensity also got higher. With the rising need and popularity of social media and the development of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, people continue to rely on the internet and online means to satisfy social needs. The findings of this study does not only report an increase in frequency of Facebook use, but also the intensification of college students’ engagement as brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The moderation analysis showed that Approach and Avoidant coping when taken on their own, do not significantly moderate the relationship. When taken together, Approach and Avoidant coping significantly moderate the relationship on a minimal level. This confirms the contention that since social media use is highly subjective on an individual’s motives, coping through social media use also involves a combination of different types of coping.
Compound Flooding in River-Urban-Coastal Environments: Multi-factorial Drivers and Modeling Considerations
Authors: Khalid Arslaan , Ferreira Celso , Elliott Jason 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In the National Capital Region, existing coastal flood guidance systems frequently underestimate total water levels (TWL), leading to inaccurate flood predictions. Flood forecasting in this region, located at the confluence of two major rivers (Potomac and Anacostia) with tidal connections to the Chesapeake Bay, faces TWL under-predictions due to missing physical processes, limited integration of hydrological and hydrodynamic models, and simplified operational model frameworks. This study introduces an integrated TWL framework using a high-resolution two-dimensional coastal storm surge model (ADCIRC) that includes multiple flood drivers (storm tide, river flows, urban runoff, and local wind forcing) as one-way input boundary conditions in the tidal Potomac River. This framework accurately replicates historical events based on observed data, with validations indicating a 0.1 m under-prediction at the NOAA Washington, DC tide station (WASD), representing a -5% deviation from observed maximum water levels. Through hypothetical simulations for 25-, 50-, and 100-year return periods, we emphasize the substantial impact of individual flood drivers. Local winds had the smallest impact on water levels at WASD compared to downstream storm surge from the Chesapeake Bay (Lewisetta, VA). Upstream major river discharges elevate water levels beyond the National Weather Service (NWS) major flooding level by 0.9 m, further amplified to 1.4 m above the threshold when urban discharges occur simultaneously in the National Capital Region. Unlike prior studies, our work offers a comprehensive evaluation of individual flood drivers' influence on TWL modeling, underscoring the imperative need for their inclusion in the framework to accurately estimate river, coastal, and compound floods in estuarine metropolitan areas.
Investigation the biological activities and the metabolite profiles of endophytic fungi isolated from Gundelia tournefortii L.
Authors: Ebadi Mostafa , Ahmadi Fatemeh , Tahmouresi Hossein , Pazhang Mohammad , Mollaei Saeed 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Endophytic fungi are microorganisms that are considered as a potential source of natural compounds, and can be applied in various industries. The aims of this research was to investigate the molecular identification, extracellular enzymetic activity as well as phenolic and fatty acid profile analysis, and antioxidant activities of endophytic fungi isolated from the Gundelia tournefortii stems. Phylogenetic analysis was done based on the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region, and five isolates were identified as following: Aspergillus niger, Penicillium glabrum, Alternaria alternata, A. tenuissima, and Mucor circinelloides. Evaluation of the enzymatic properties showed that P. gabrum and A. niger had more ability for producing most of the studied extracellular enzymes, unlike to A. alternata and M. circinelloides which only able for degradation of starch and pectin. The antioxidant activity of isolates showed that A. alternata extract (IC50= 417 µg/mL) had the highest antioxidant properties, followed by A. tenuissima extract (IC50= 512 µg/mL). Also, the extract of A. alternata had the greatest amount of total phenols and flavonoids contents (2.8 mg GAL/g and 2.3 mg QE/g, respectively). The quantification analysis of phenolic acid showed that rosmarinic acid, para-coumaric acid, and meta-coumaric acid (42.02, 7.53, 5.41 mg/g, respectively) were the main phenolic acids in the studied fungi. The analysis of fatty acids confirmed that, in all fungi, the main fatty acids were stearic acid (27.9-35.2%), oleic acid (11.3-17.3%), palmitic acid (16.9-23.2%), linoleic acid (5.8-11.6%), and caprylic acid (6.3-10.9%). Our finding showed that endophytic fungi are a source of bioactive compounds, which could be used in various industries. This is the first report of endophytic fungi associated with G. tournefortii, which provides knowledge on their future use on biotechnological processes.
Social Needs and Healthcare Utilization in NICU Graduates
Authors: Yama Cecile , Greenberg Rachel , Johnson Erika , Mago-Shah Deesha 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective:Unplanned healthcare utilization after neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) discharge poses challenges for families and healthcare systems. The impact of social needs on post-NICU healthcare utilization is underexplored. Our objective was to identify social needs among NICU graduates and examine associations between social needs and post-NICU healthcare utilization.Study Design:A prospective cohort design was used to screen for social needs and track healthcare utilization among 112 NICU graduates attending a NICU follow-up clinic (2021-2022). Associations between social needs and healthcare utilization were analyzed using non-parametric statistical tests.Results:Of 112 patients screened, 20 (18%) had some social need. Infants with social needs experienced statistically significant higher rates of hospitalizations, overall encounters, and missed appointments.Conclusion:Social needs are associated with increased healthcare utilization. Addressing these needs during NICU follow-up may improve preventative care attendance and reduce unplanned healthcare use, leading to better health outcomes for vulnerable infants and lower costs for healthcare systems.
A qualitative survey to explore dietary changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding in rural community in Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire.
Authors: DIALLO AWA RITA , AKAKI KOFFI DAVID , AUDREY ESSILFIE , MUTUNGI GISELLA , WANG DANTONG , HARTWEG MICKAEL 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Pregnancy and breastfeeding periods have linked to some dietary modification that can potentially impact maternal and offspring health. Therefore, maternal nutrition during these periods is essential. The objective of this study was to assess dietary changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and the reasons behind these changes.
Methods
The study adopted a qualitative approach by submitting a questionnaire to 140 breastfeeding and 45 pregnant women to investigate dietary intake and any changes during these stages. The survey was conducted in 8 villages in rural areas, with groups of women farmers, on a voluntary basis. Data analysis was done manually using the thematic framework analysis method.
Results
62% of women reported having reduced or eliminated their intake of at least one food group (cereals, starchy roots, tubers, or nuts) during pregnancy. The reasons of these changes were gastrointestinal issues. 92% increased their intake of at least one food group (cereals, starchy roots, tubers, or eggs) to satisfy cravings during pregnancy. 42% of breastfeeding women eliminated fruits like mango and cashew apple from their diet. This reduction of fruits was because of concerns for the health of baby and breastmilk quality. To stimulate breast milk production, women increase their intake of cow's milk and dairy products.
Conclusion
Our findings have shown that during these stages many women change dietary intake for various reasons including gastrointestinal issues and health concerns. These results call for a need to focus on education and counselling, to improve women's nutritional knowledge and address any concerns they may have on food choices and impact on either pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Dapagliflozin Attenuates Inflammation and Apoptosis in a Rat Model of Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Li Luxin , Liu Yong , Guan Huilin , Bai He , Wang Chunhua 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder related to chronic low-grade inflammation of the ovary. Several women of childbearing age are affected by polycystic ovary syndrome. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a new class of anti-diabetes drugs that can reduce the weight and hyperglycemia of Type-2 diabetes patients. However, the regulatory role of dapagliflozin, an inhibitor of SGLT2, in PCOS remains unclear. This study randomly divided 24 six-week-old female SD rats into Control, Letrozole, and Letrozole + dapagliflozin groups. PCOS model rats were constructed by gavage of letrozole (1 mg/kg) for 21 days. The intervention was conducted after the gavage of dapagliflozin (10 mg/kg) for 14 days to evaluate the estrous cycle and ovarian imaging changes of rats in each group. In addition, this study observed the weight, ovarian weight, and ovarian morphology changes of rats in each group. The pathological changes of ovaries were examined using H&E staining, the changes of inflammatory-related factors were detected using immunohistochemistry and Western blot, and the changes in apoptosis of ovarian tissue cells were identified using TUNEL staining. Compared with the letrozole group, dapagliflozin treatment significantly improved PCOS symptoms and recovered ovarian morphology and physiological function after drug intervention. Dapagliflozin treatment also reduced ovarian inflammatory factors of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and NF-κB expression levels and improved the ovary’s apoptosis level. In summary, the treatment with dapagliflozin showed a protective effect on PCOS and reduced the inflammation and apoptosis of the ovary.
Proportional Study for Efficient Anomaly Detection Technique
Authors: Tripathi Rajeev , Singh Alok 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The current world of internet, mobile devices, businesses, social media platforms, healthcare systems, and the Internet of Things all have a lot of data available online. In the study of genetic datasets, clustering is crucial. In the gene dataset, there is a tremendous quantity of hidden information. To uncover hidden information in gene expression data, a deeper understanding of functional genomics is required. Working with the gene dataset presents a lot of obstacles. The enormous volume of data, dimensionality, and dataset changes throughout time are these problems. Clustering algorithms are a useful tool for solving this type of problem. Consequently, the first step in resolving these issues is the application of clustering algorithms, which are necessary for data mining procedures to reveal the structure and hidden patterns in gene datasets. Gene expression datasets are analysed using several clustering techniques. Five clustering algorithms—OPTICS (Ordering Points To Identify Clustering Structure), Hierarchical Clustering, DBSCAN (Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise), and HDBSCAN—have been used in this study to cluster the cancer gene database. The efficiency of each clustering approach is assessed using a range of external and internal parametric clustering assessment metrics. When compared to other clustering approaches, the OPTICS and DBSCAN clustering algorithm yields the best results.
Ecological risks of dammed reservoir waters using the example of the Turawa Reservoir in southern Poland
Authors: Kłos Andrzej , Wiatkowski Mirosław , Skorulski Witold , Strzelczyk Maria , Polechoński Ryszard , Wróbel Barbara , Dobrzyński Jakub , Rosik-Dulewska Czesława , Steinhoff-Wrześniewska Aleksandra , Dołhańczuk-Śródka Agnieszka , Ziembik Zbigniew , Gruss Łukasz , Kabat Tomasz , Wierzba Sławomir , Piechaczek-Wereszczyńska Magdalena , Cygan Agnieszka , Helis Marek , Wieczorek Piotr 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
A study of the ecological potential and the chemical pollution of the Turawa Reservoir (southern Poland), as well as an assessment of the pollution of its recharge waters, was carried out between 2019 and 2021. Four research teams took part in the study. The reservoir was chosen because of the eutrophication process that has been ongoing for several decades. Phytoplankton, phytobenthos and macrozoobenthos were surveyed as part of the ecological potential assessment. Analysed indicators were: BOD5, CODCr, nitrogen concentrations (Kjeldahl nitrogen TKN, ammonium nitrogen NH4-N, nitrate nitrogen NO3-N and total nitrogen TN) and phosphorus (orthophosphate phosphorus PO4-P and total phosphorus TP), as well as conductivity and water pH. Using ion chromatography, the ionic composition (F−, Cl−, Br−, NO2−, NO3−, PO43−, SO42−, Na+, NH4+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+) and heavy metal concentrations (Cr, Ni, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb) of the basin waters and the waters supplying the basin were determined. Coliforms, faecal enterococci and Salmonella spp. were also assessed. The condition of the reservoir water was assessed as poor. The poor quality of the water supplying the reservoir, and the bottom sediments, in which large quantities of, among other things, nutrients and heavy metals have accumulated over the years, have been identified as the cause. A factor related to biomass accumulation was also identified. During the vegetation cycle, due to biochemical processes taking place, the oxygen and nutrient indicators can be significantly influenced. The problem outlined characterises most European dam reservoirs, especially shallow reservoirs with low thermal stratification.
PaCO2 Association with Traumatic Brain Injury Patients Outcomes at High Altitude: A Prospective Single-Center Cohort Study.
Authors: Caceres Eder , Divani Afshin A. , Rubinos Clio A. , Olivella-Gómez Juan , Viñán-Garcés André Emilio , González Angélica , Alvarado-Arias Alexis , Bathia Kunal , Samadani Uzma , Reyes Luis F. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) is generally known to influence outcome in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) at normal altitudes. Less is known about specific relationships of PaCO2 levels and clinical outcomes at high altitudes.
Methods
This is a prospective single-center cohort of consecutive TBI patients admitted to a trauma center located at 2600 meter above sea level. An unfavorable outcome was defined as the Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOSE) < 4 at 6-month follow-up.
Results
81 patients with complete data, 80% (65/81) were men, and median (IQR) age was 36 (25–50) years). Median Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) on admission was 9 (6–14), 49% (40/81) were severe (GCS: 3–8), 32% (26/81) moderate (GCS 12 − 9), and 18% (15/81) mild (GCS 13–15) TBI. The median (IQR) Abbreviated Injury Score of the Head (AISh) was 3 (2–4). Frequency of an unfavorable outcome (GOSE < 4) was 30% (25/81), median GOSE was 4 (2–5), and 6-month mortality was 24% (20/81). Comparison between patients with favorable and unfavorable outcomes revealed that those with unfavorable outcome were older, median [49 (30–72) vs. 29 (22–41), P < 0.01], had lower admission GCS [6 (4–8) vs. 13 (8–15), P < 0.01], higher AIS head [4 (4–4) vs. 3(2–4), p < 0.01], higher APACHE II score [17(15–23) vs 10 (6–14), < 0.01), higher Charlson score [0(0–2) vs. 0 (0–0), P < 0.01] and higher PaCO2 (mmHg), mean ± SD, 39 ± 9 vs. 32 ± 6, P < 0.01. In a multivariate analysis, age (OR 1.14 95% CI 1.1–1.30, P < 0.01), AISh (OR 4.7 95% CI 1.55-21.0, P < 0.05), and PaCO2 (OR 1.23 95% CI: 1.10–1.53, P < 0.05) were significantly associated with the unfavorable outcomes. When applying the same analysis to the subgroup on mechanical ventilation, AISh (OR 5.4 95% CI: 1.61–28.5, P = 0.017) and PaCO2 (OR 1.36 95% CI: 1.13–1.78, P = 0.015) remained significantly associated with the unfavorable outcome.
Conclusion
Higher PaCO2 levels are associated with an unfavorable outcome in ventilated TBI patients. These results underscore the importance of PaCO2 level in TBI patients and whether it should be adjusted for populations living at higher altitudes.