bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A CB2 Agonist Alleviates Liver Fibrosis by Downregulating the ERK1/2 Signalling Pathway in Mouse Hepatic Fibrosis Model
Authors: He Ping , Wu Yafeng , Long Cuizhen , Shun Jianchao , Wang Yuping 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptors have been reported to display potent anti-fibrogenic properties in mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCL4)-induced hepatic fibrosis.However, the mechanism by which CB2 receptors inhibit fibrogenesis remains unclear. We aimed to study the effects of CB2 receptors in a mouse CCL4-induced hepatic fibrosis model. Hepatic fibrosis was induced by CCL4 administration in wild-type (WT) and CB2−/− mice. WT mice received vehicle, CCL4, AM1241 (CB2 receptor agonist) or AM1241 plus AM630 (CB2 receptor antagonist), with the AM1241 and AM1241 plus AM630 treatments injected intraperitoneally on each day of the 16-week CCL4 treatment. Real-time PCR and immunohistochemical staining were used to analyse α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and profibrogenic marker (TGF-β1) expression and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition (collagen-Ⅰ). HSC apoptosis were performed by TUNEL staining. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2), cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), Bcl-2, Bax and cleaved caspase-3 levels were characterized in mouse hepatic tissues via western blotting. Hepatic fibrosis was enhanced in CB2−/− mice compared to that in WT mice, and this phenomenon was alleviated in AM1241-treated WT mice. Moreover, the CB2 receptor agonist AM1241 decreased α-SMA, TGF-β1 and collagen-Ⅰ mRNA and protein expression and inhibited ERK1/2-CREB-Bcl-2 signalling pathway activity. Combined AM1241 and AM630 administration reversed the effects of AM1241. AM1241 inhibited hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, downregulated profibrogenic marker expression, decreased ECM deposition and alleviated fibrosis in WT mice. These effects were mediated at least in part by the induction of HSC apoptosis through ERK1/2-CREB-Bcl-2 downregulation. Thus, CB2 agonists are potential therapeutic agents for managing liver fibrosis.
Distinct patterns of corneal nerve fiber features in secondary parkinsonian patients vs idiopathic Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Che Ning-Ning , Jiang Qiu-Huan , Chen Shuai , Sun Zhi-Kun , Yang Wei-Min , Li Xue , Ma Jian-Jun , Zhang Jie-Wen , Malik Rayaz A , Yang Hong-Qi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As a neurodegenerative disease, PD involves both central and peripheral nervous systems, especially small nerve fibers damage. PD had progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, and patients with secondary parkinsonism (SP) present with similar neurological symptoms, but without primary impairment of the nigrostriatal pathway. The results indicated that patients with SP showed no evidence of corneal nerve abnormality and 18F-DOPA PET, but patients with PD showed the opposite results, and ROC analysis showed combined corneal nerve parameters could increase the AUC to 0.907, indicating that corneal nerve loss may be a surrogate marker for distinguishing SP from PD.
Active Learning: EFL teachers’ Role in ELT Classrooms of Ebantu District Secondary Schools
Authors: Duresa Misgana 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The study intended to investigate EFL teachers’ role in implementing active learning in ELT classrooms. The study used descriptive survey design with mixed method. Participants of the study were 15 EFL teachers and 5 students of Ebantu District high schools who were selected comprehensively and randomly respectively. The data obtained through questionnaire was entered into SPSS version-25 whereas students were interviewed individually. Mean and standard deviation were computed for the data collected through questionnaire and described in words whereas coding, categorizing and describing was used for interview. Besides, p-value was calculated using bivariate analysis. The result of the study revealed that active learning strategies were not used effectively in which teachers showed their role moderately. There was also insignificant relationship between teachers’ use of active learning strategies and the role they played. Therefore, teachers should understand the concept and varied types of active learning strategies to apply them effectively.
Maternal health disparities linked to stressful life events: A cross-sectional study of industrialized Italian cities
Authors: Bansal Esha , Patrono Alessandra , Renzetti Stefano , Lucchini Roberto G. , Chiu Yueh-Hsiu Mathilda , Conversano Michele , Montemurro Miriana , Bruno Deborah , Franco Carmen , Giorgino Augusto , Cagna Giuseppa , Fedrighi Chiara , Memo Maurizio , Placidi Donatella 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Understanding the impact of family life stressors on maternal health is crucial, particularly in highly industrialized areas. This study assessed the validity of an Italian-language version of the Crisis in Family Systems-Revised (CRISYS-R) survey in Northern and Southern Italian cohorts.
Methods
Mothers (n = 252) completed an Italian version of CRISYS-R, translated from English using the forward-backward method. At least 14 days after initial survey completion, a random subset of mothers (n = 44) retook CRISYS-R. Information about family demographics, socioeconomic status, and maternal health were collected by self-report on structured surveys. Statistical analyses were performed in R.
Results
Test-retest analysis yielded a Pearson coefficient of 0.714 (Brescia: 0.845, Taranto: 0.726). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for internal consistency was 0.765 (Brescia: 0.718, Taranto: 0.784). In multivariable regression, the total number of stressors reported on the initial CRISYS-R test was positively associated with: poor maternal mental health (p < 0.001), poor maternal physical health (p < 0.01), and residence in the Southern rather than Northern Italy (p = 0.02). Univariate correlations yielded similar results, plus a negative correlation between annual family income and total life stressors (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Statistical analyses support the validity and reliability of an Italian-language CRISYS-R in industrialized areas, while highlighting relationships between family stressors and maternal mental and physical health. This survey instrument has the potential to inform public health policies and interventions serving families in Italian-speaking areas with high burdens of industrial pollution.
POSoligo: in vitro gene synthesis oligonucleotide software
Authors: Tong Yingying , sun jie , Chen Yang , Yi Changhua , Yang Guanghua 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Oligonucleotide synthesis is crucial for molecular experiments. Bioinformatics has been applied to develop various algorithm-based tools for the in vitro synthesis of nucleotides. The primary method of synthesizing long-chain DNA molecules involves connecting short-chain oligonucleotides through ligase chain reaction (LCR) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Short-chain DNA molecules exhibit low mutagenesis rates, while LCR requires complementary interfaces on both ends of the two nucleic acid molecules or might alter the conformation of nucleotide chain conformation, terminating amplification. Therefore, molecular melting temperature, length, and specificity should be considered during the experimental design.
Patch oligonucleotide synthesis (POS)oligo is a specialized offline tool for nucleotide fragment synthesis.. It optimizes the oligonucleotide length and specificity based on input single-stranded DNA, generating multiple contiguous long strands (COS) and short patch strands (POS) with complementary ends. This process ensures free 5′- and 3′-ends during oligonucleotide synthesis, preventing secondary structure formation and ensuring specific binding between COS and POS without stabilizing the complementary strands based on Tm values. POSoligo was used to synthesize the linear RBD sequence of SARS-CoV-2 using only one DNA strand, several POSs for LCR ligation, and two pairs of primers for PCR amplification in a time- and cost-effective manner.
RETRACTED: Disrupting the Genetic Code: The Impact of a novel homozygous/heterozygous Splicing Mutation on COL4A3 with mild phenotype in an autosomal recessive Alport Syndrome’s family
Authors: Chen Dan , Zhang Li , Rao Jing , Zhou Yan , Huang Songsong , Dai Lujun , Yang Chunxia , Bian Qiuhan , Zhang Tao , Yang Xiaoyan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Impact of Population-Based Screening Programs on Colorectal Cancer Screening Uptake and Predictors in Atlantic Canada: A Repeated Cross-Sectional study
Authors: Adefemi Kazeem , Knight John C. , Zhu Yun , Wang Peter Peizhong 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant public health challenge in Canada, with the Atlantic Provinces bearing a particularly high burden. The implementation of population-based colon screening programs is aimed to address this concern. However, limited research exists on the impact of these programs, including their uptake, barriers, and predictors of screening participation. This study aimed to examine impact of the first few years of the Colon Screening programs in the Atlantic Provinces of Canada by assessing changes in screening uptake, barriers, and predictors of screening among eligible population.
Methods
Employing a repeated cross-sectional design, this study selected and analysed data of a representative sample of respondents from the Atlantic provinces aged 50–74 years from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) for the years 2010 and 2017. The primary outcome measures were CRC screening rates and changes in predictors of screening uptake between these two data points. The CCHS data provided information on self-reported CRC screening participation and potential predictors such as age, sex, income, and education.
Results
Proportion of adults aged 50–74 years, up-to-date with CRC screening, increased, on average, from 42–54%, falling short of the national target of 60%. New Brunswick saw the biggest increase in screening prevalence (18%). Participation in the fecal tests increased significantly (19.7% − 32.4%). However, disparities in screening participation persist and, 41% and 50% of people with no screening history deemed the CRC fecal test and endoscopy tests unnecessary, respectively. Age, chronic health conditions, sex, marital status, regular healthcare access and smoking status remained significant predictors of CRC screening uptake.
Conclusions
This study highlights the need for continued efforts to improve CRC screening uptake in the Atlantic Provinces of Canada. Despite the establishment of screening programs, barriers to access and low awareness persist. Addressing these challenges and monitoring the impact of screening programs is essential to reduce CRC burden in the region and enhance public health outcomes.
Clinical features and prognostic biomarkers of patients with the rare SMACRA4 gene mutation in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: LONG JINYU , Chen Ying , Luo Xingguang , rao ruiying , Wang Chenxi , Guo Yuxin , Xu Jinhe , Lin Ping , Song Yingfang , Qu Lijuan , Liu Qinghong , Lu Jun , Zhou Chengzhi , Song Zhengbo , Lin Xiandong , Yu Zongyang 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background:
Non-small cell lung cancer carrying SMARCA4 mutations is characterized by a high degree of malignancy and a poor prognosis. Due to the rarity of the population and the lack of a series of studies, the characteristics of the population with NSCLC and SMARCA4 mutations are not yet clear.
Methods:
The retrospective study collected data on 224 patients with tumors eligible for enrollment from December 2020 to July 2022. Among them, 26 developed SMARCA4 mutations, and 20 were eligible for inclusion in the specimen,with survival follow-up until April 2023. Clinical features, pathological characteristics, molecular features, and the role in the prognosis of SMARCA4 mutations were analyzed. The TCGA database was used to screen and obtain 481 NSCLC-SMARCA4-Mut samples for clinical characterization.
Results:
In TCGA, 283 patients with NSCLC-SMARCA4-Mut were ≥60-75 years old (58.84%), with a median age of 67 years. There were 312 males (64.86%) and 169 females (35.13%), with 374 smokers (77.75%). The origin sites of lung cancer were 277 (57.59%) in the upper lobe. Among the 20 clinical SMARCA4-Mut patients included, 12 (60%) were males and 8 (40%) were females, with a median age of 63 years. Through intergroup prognostic correlation analysis, the prognosis of SMARCA4-Mut patients was significantly worse than that of SMARCA4-Wt patients (P = 0.024). The positive expression of NapsinA was better in PFS1 and OS in SMARCA4-Mut (P = 0.016, P = 0.037). We used the ROC curve to predict PFS1 and OS of NapsinA in the Mut group with statistical significance (AUC = 0.829, P = 0.025, AUC = 0.814, P = 0.031).
Conclusion:
NSCLC-SMARCA4-Mut has a worse clinical prognosis. NapsinA-positive expression in SMARCA4-Mut patients was significantly associated with prolonged PFS1 and OS.
Sustainable lignocellulosic-based sponge with Janus salt-tolerant structure for efficient solar steam generation
Authors: Qiao Pengju , Yang Meng , Zhao Jinmin , Wang Zheng , Li Gang , Fang Jing , Qian Yong , Li Hao 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Solar Vapor Generation (SVG) is a new green production technology that is gaining increasing attention for obtaining fresh water from seawater or wastewater. Currently, the evaporator substrates face challenges such as complex fabrication processes, high cost, and poor biodegradability. Lignocellulosic sponge (LS), as a sustainable material, exhibits characteristics such as hydrophilicity, excellent insulation properties, lightweight nature, and low cost. It is considered a highly promising material for evaporators. In this study, LS was modified to create an efficient evaporator with excellent salt resistance. The polyvinyl alcohol/carbon black (PVA/CB) gel-based photothermal coating was introduced to enhance the water evaporation rate significantly on the surface of the lignocellulosic sponge. Subsequently, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coating was sprayed on the interfacial steam generator surface to form a hydrophobic layer, effectively resisting salt accumulation on the evaporator surface. Simultaneously, the incorporation of degreased cotton as a one-dimensional water pathway enhanced the salt ion backflow and prevented salt crystallization at the hydrophilic/hydrophobic interface. The resulting porous sponge-based photothermal evaporator (PCP-LS) achieved a high evaporation rate of up to 3.2 kg m− 2h− 1 and demonstrated stable operation in high-concentration saltwater (20wt%). PCP-LS, as a cost-effective, easily fabricated, salt-tolerant, and environmentally friendly solar evaporator, holds great potential in seawater/wastewater treatment.
The Impacts of Smart City Construction on Carbon Total Factor Productivity: Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Wu Zhongqi , Wang Xuliang 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Today, low-carbon development and smart city pilots are prevalent. Against this backdrop, an urgent need exists to clarify the impact of smart city construction (SCC) on low-carbon development. However, studies on the low-carbon development effects of SCC remain scarce. Therefore, this in-depth study focuses on China, the world’s largest developing country, to examine the role of SCC in promoting low-carbon development. First, we calculate the carbon total factor productivity (CTFP) of 182 prefecture-level cities in China using the slacks-based global Malmquist–Luenberger index. Second, to empirically examine the impact of SCC on CTFP, we employ a multi-period difference-in-difference (DID) model and a machine learning–based propensity-score matching DID (PSM-DID) model. The results reveal that SCC significantly enhances CTFP and low-carbon technological efficiency, while its impact on low-carbon technological progress is nonsignificant. Mechanism tests indicate that SCC can improve CTFP through the following three channels: green technological innovation, industrial structure upgrading, and resource allocation. Heterogeneity tests indicate that all three batches of SCC improve CTFP, and that the positive effect of the third batch is greater than that of the first and second batches. Furthermore, the CTFP promotion effect of SCC is stronger in megacities and cities in the Central region. Finally, we propose relevant policy implications.
Examination of Tp-e interval, Tp-e / QT ratio, Tp-e / QTc ratio and fragmented QRS parameters in patients diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder
Authors: Keles Fikret , keles denizhan danaci , yildiz sevler , kilicaslan asli kazgan , kurt osman 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
Anxiety disorders can be seen in individuals with cardiovascular disease, as well as cardiovascular diseases can be seen in individuals diagnosed with anxiety disorder. This situation can affect morbidity and mortality. In this respect, early diagnosis and treatment is very important. We aimed to recognize ventricular pro-arrhythmic conditions that may accompany generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) with electrocardiographic parameters.
Material-method:
50 patients diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder for the first time and 50 healthy control groups were included in the study. Sociodemographic data form, Beck Anxiety Scale (BAI) and Beck Depression Scale (BDI) were applied to all participants. In addition, electrocardiography was performed in both groups and Tp-e interval, Tp-e / QT ratio, Tp-e / QTc ratio and fragmented QRS parameters were measured.
Results
It was observed that the anxiety and depression scores of the patient group were higher than the control group. (p < 0.001). In addition, it was found that the Tp-e interval, Tp-e / QT and Tp-e / QTc ratio were higher in individuals with GAD, and the rate of fragmented QRS in the patient group was significantly higher than the healthy control group. (p < 0.001) (p = 0.016). It was determined that there is a moderately positive significant relationship between BAI and BDI and Tp-e interval, Tp-e / QT ratio andTp-e / QTc ratio (r = 0.665, p < 0.001)
Conclusion
These findings show that ventricular repolarization and depolarization are affected in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder. This situation poses a risk in terms of arrhythmia and it would be appropriate to avoid pro-arrhythmic agents in drug selection in these patients. Since ECG is an inexpensive and easily accessible test, we think that cardiac follow-up of generalized anxiety disorders with ECG measurement may be beneficial.
Caracterização Geoambiental do Litoral Oriental do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte, NE do Brasil
Authors: Dos Santos Chaves Marcelo , Maria Carvalho Lima Zuleide , Augusto Viana Varella Guilherme 
Published: December 2023

O município de Baía Formosa está localizado no litoral Leste potiguar, no Estado do Rio Grande do Norte, integrantes de uma sequência de praias formando baías em forma de zeta. Esta pesquisa visa caracterizar os aspectos geoambientais da área em questão com um enfoque na análise sedimentológica, composta por análise granulométrica, teores de carbonato e de matéria orgânica, visto que não existem estudos de tal cunho para o local. A caracterização geoambiental aborda os aspectos geológicos, geomorfológicos, edáficos, climatológicos e socioeconômicos com enfoque em dados obtidos para o município de Baía Formosa/RN, que abriga os locais onde foram coletadas as doze (12) amostras para análise sedimentológica, sempre na faixa de praia do estirâncio que, por sua vez, demonstra notável uniformidade de areias de granulometria média, em sua maior parte de diâmetros entre 0.250mm e 0.350mm, fazendo jus à classificação de praia refletiva exposta, facilitando que sedimentos mais finos sejam removidos mais constantemente. As análises de teor de carbonato e matéria orgânica seguem com certa uniformidade, porém as análises gráficas demonstram tendências ligeiramente diferenciadas entre os pontos de coleta, indicando diferentes tendências de curva, curtose e selecionamento dos sedimentos. O estudo poderá, além de complementar o conhecimento acerca da região, servir de ponto inicial de um possível monitoramento contínuo.
The Impact of Intervention Design on User Engagement in Digital Therapeutics Research: Factorial Experiment With a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Lee Hyerim , Choi Eung Ho , Shin Jung U , Kim Tae-Gyun , Oh Jooyoung , Shin Bokyoung , Sim Jung Yeon , Shin Jaeyong , Kim Meelim 
Published: December 2023

Background
User engagement is crucial for digital therapeutics (DTx) effectiveness; due to variations in the conceptualization of engagement and intervention design, assessment and retention of engagement remain challenging.

Objective
We investigated the influence of the perceived acceptability of experimental intervention components and satisfaction with core intervention components in DTx on user engagement, while also identifying potential barriers and facilitators to user engagement.

Methods
We conducted a mixed methods study with a 2 × 2 factorial design, involving 12 outpatients with atopic dermatitis. Participants were randomized into 4 experimental groups based on push notification (“basic” or “advanced”) and human coach (“on” or “off”) experimental intervention components. All participants engaged in self-monitoring and learning courses as core intervention components within an app-based intervention over 8 weeks. Data were collected through in-app behavioral data, physician- and self-reported questionnaires, and semistructured interviews assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to evaluate user engagement, perceived acceptability of experimental intervention components (ie, push notification and human coach), satisfaction with core intervention components (ie, self-monitoring and learning courses), and intervention effectiveness through clinical outcomes.

Results
The primary outcome indicated that group 4, provided with “advanced-level push notifications” and a “human coach,” showed higher completion rates for self-monitoring forms and learning courses compared to the predetermined threshold of clinical significance. Qualitative data analysis revealed three key themes: (1) perceived acceptability of the experimental intervention components, (2) satisfaction with the core intervention components, and (3) suggestions for improvement in the overall intervention program. Regarding clinical outcomes, the Perceived Stress Scale and Dermatology Life Quality Index scores presented the highest improvement in group 4.

Conclusions
These findings will help refine the intervention and inform the design of a subsequent randomized trial to test its effectiveness. Furthermore, this design may serve as a model for broadly examining and optimizing overall engagement in DTx and for future investigation into the complex relationship between engagement and clinical outcomes.

Trial Registration
Clinical Research Information Service KCT0007675; http://tinyurl.com/2m8rjrmv