bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hyperalgesic Effect Evoked by Il-16 and Its Participation in Inflammatory Hypernociception in Mice
Authors: González-Rodríguez Sara , Sordo-Bahamonde Christian , Álvarez-Artime Alejandro , Baamonde Ana , Menéndez Luis 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The systemic administration of interleukin-16 (IL-16, 3-30 ng/kg, 1 h before) induced thermal hyperalgesia in mice, that was prevented by the acute injection of an anti-CD4 antibody (1 µg/kg), the depletion of circulating white blood cells by cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg, 72 and 24 h before) or the specific reduction of circulating CD4+ cells provoked by a high dose of an anti-CD4 antibody (30 µg/mouse, 24 h before). IL-16-induced hyperalgesia was locally inhibited after intraplantar (i.pl.) administration of the non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor diclofenac, the COX-1 inhibitor SC-560, the COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib, the TRPV1 antagonist capsazepine or the TRPA1 antagonist HC030031, thus demonstrating that prostaglandins (PGs) and TRP channels are involved in this effect. The i.pl. administration of low doses of IL-16 (0.1-1 ng) evoked local hyperalgesia suggesting the possibility that IL-16 could participate in hypernociception associated to local tissue injury. Accordingly, IL-16 concentration measured by ELISA was increased in paws acutely inflamed with carrageenan or chronically inflamed with complete Freund´s adjuvant (CFA), being this augmentation prevented by cyclophosphamide pre-treatment. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry experiments showed that the increased concentration of IL-16 levels found in acutely inflamed paws is mainly related to the infiltration of IL-16+ neutrophils, although a reduced number of IL-16+ lymphocytes was also detected in paws inflamed with CFA. Supporting the functional role of IL-16 in inflammatory hypernociception, the administration of an anti-IL-16 antibody dose-dependently reduced carrageenan- and CFA-induced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. The interest of IL-16 as a target to counteract inflammatory pain is suggested.
In silico studies of the open form of human tissue transglutaminase
Authors: Vlasov Alexey , Ivashchenko Sergey , Shulga Dmitry , Ivashchenko Vladimir , Zinovev Egor 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Human tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is an intriguing multifunctional enzyme involved in various diseases, including celiac disease and neurological disorders. Although a number of tTG inhibitors have been developed, the molecular determinants governing ligand binding remain incomplete due to the lack of high-resolution structural data in the vicinity of its active site. In this study, we obtained the complete high-resolution model of tTG by in silico methods based on available PDB structures. We discovered significant differences in the active site architecture between our and known tTG models, revealing an additional loop which affects the ligand binding affinity. We assembled a library of new potential tTG inhibitors based on the obtained complete model of the enzyme. Our library substantially expands the spectrum of possible drug candidates targeting tTG and encompasses twelve molecular scaffolds, eleven of which are novel and exhibit higher binding affinity then already known ones, according to our in silico studies. The results of this study open new directions for structure-based drug design of tTG inhibitors, offering the complete protein model and suggesting a wide range of new compounds for further experimental validation.
Spiroplasma infection as a cause of severe congenital keratouveitis, cataract and glaucoma
Authors: Haecke Helena , Roels Dimitri , Nerinckx Fanny , Schaballie Heidi , Schelstraete Petra , Vandekerckhove Linos , Cleemput Jolien , Broeck Wim , Couck Liesbeth , Hamerlinck Hannelore , Vandendriessche Stien , Boelens Jerina , Joniau Inge 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: Only seven cases of ocular Spiroplasmainfection have been reported to date, all presenting as congenital cataracts with concomitant intraocular inflammation. We describe the first case of Spiroplasmainfection initially presenting as a corneal infiltrate.
Case presentation: A 1-month-old girl was referred for a corneal infiltrate in the left eye. She presented in our hospital with unilateral keratouveitis. Examination showed a stromal corneal infiltrate and dense white keratic precipitates in the left eye. Herpetic keratouveitis was suspected and intravenous acyclovir therapy was initiated. Two weeks later, the inflammation in the left eye persisted and was also noticed in the right eye. Acute angle-closure glaucoma and a cataract with dilated iris vessels extending onto the anterior lens capsule developed in the left eye. The inflammation resolved after treatment with azithromycin. Iridectomy, synechiolysis and lensectomy were performed. Bacterial metagenomic sequencing (16S rRNA) and transmission electron microscopy revealed Spiroplasma ixodetis species in lens aspirates and biopsy. Consequently, a diagnosis of bilateral Spiroplasmauveitis was made.
Conclusions: In cases of congenital cataract with concomitant intraocular inflammation, Spiroplasma infection should be considered. The purpose of this case report is to raise awareness of congenital Spiroplasmainfection as a cause of severe keratouveitis, cataract and angle-closure glaucoma in newborns. Performing molecular testing on lens aspirates is essential to confirm diagnosis. Systemic macrolides are suggested as the mainstay of treatment.
Mutual synchronization of hydrodynamic and thermoacoustic oscillations in a turbulent premixed combustor
Authors: Balasubramaniyan Manikandan , Wang Haiqing , Liu Peijin , Guan Yu , Li Larry K.B. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The presence of global hydrodynamic instability (GHI) in turbulent premixed flames has been shown to reduce the sensitivity of heat-release-rate (HRR) responses to external acoustic forcing, suggesting that GHI could passively weaken thermoacoustic oscillations detrimental to combustion systems. This study adopts a mutual synchronization approach to investigate the coupled interactions between a bluff-body stabilized turbulent premixed flame containing GHI and the acoustic modes of its surrounding combustor. In the absence of external forcing, flame HRR oscillations and combustor acoustic modes can mutually synchronize , but the impact of mutual synchronization on resulting flame response or acoustic pressure amplitude remains unclear. Therefore, this study systematically investigates mutual synchronization, its dynamical states, and subsequent flame response/acoustic pressure amplitude using temporal and spatial analysis. Simultaneous CH* chemiluminescence imaging and unsteady pressure measurements were conducted in a bluff-body stabilized lean-premixed turbulent combustor. By increasing the combustor length (1200 mm ⩽ L ⩽ 2700 mm) while maintaining a fixed equivalence ratio (ϕ = 0.65) and Reynolds number (Re = 10785), four distinct flame modes were observed: (i) a self-sustained vortex shedding mode due to GHI at L = 1200 mm, also known as the hydrodynamic mode; (ii) a self-sustained 1 combustor mode due to thermoacoustic instability at L = 1700 mm; (iii) a hybrid mode at L = 2500 mm, where both the GHI and thermoacoustic modes coex-ist; and (iv) a mutually synchronized mode at L = 2700 mm, where GHI and thermoacoustic modes are locked into each other. Temporal analysis reveals the coexistence of various dynamical states during mutual synchronization, including a simultaneous increase in the amplitudes of flame HRR and acoustic pressure oscillations. Similarly, spatial analysis reveals strong HRR fluctuations occurring at the recirculation zone due to large-scale vortex roll-up. Lastly, two distinct mechanisms causing flame blowoff are identified: (i) a few cycles of flame pinch-off followed by global flame blowoff when ϕ falls below the lean flammability limit and (ii) flame pinch-off and flame-wall quenching together cause global flame blowoff.
Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Fat Embolism in Isolated Lower Extremities Long Bone Fractures
Authors: Owattanapanich Natthida , Lewis Meghan , Biswas Subarna , Benjamin Elizabeth , Demetriades Demetrios 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a serious complication after orthopedic trauma. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for FES, in isolated lower extremity long bone fractures.
METHODS: NTDB study, included patients with isolated femoral and tibial fractures. 344 patients with FES were propensity score matched with 981 patients without FES. Multivariate logistical regression was used to identify independent risk factors for FES.
RESULTS: FES was diagnosed in 344 (0.03%) out of the 1,251,143 patients in the study populations. In the two matched groups, the mortality was 7% in the FES group and 1% in the No FES group (p<0.001). FES was associated with an increased risk of ARDS, VTE, pneumonia, AKI , and stroke. Younger age, femur fractures, obesity and diabetes were independent predictors of FE. Early operative fixation (≤ 48 h) was protective against FES.
CONCLUSIONS: FES increases mortality by seven times. Young age, obesity, and diabetes are significant independent risk factors for FES. Early fixation is independently associated with a reduced risk of FES.
Preparation of sock impregnated with microcapsules based on olive oil for the antibacterial and antifungal therapy of athlete's foot
Authors: Jaafar Fadhel , Ladhari Neji 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Athlete's foot is a cutaneous fungal infection caused by dermatophyte infection. It is characterised by itching, flaking, and fissuring of the skin. Fungal infection of the feet can cause white and soggy skin between the toes, dry and flaky soles, or reddening and blistering of the skin all over the foot. The sock is therefore an important area for development and relevant for overall improvements in comfort. clothing designated for athlete's foot in terms of antifungal sock are developed. A jersey garment is developed with cotton and elastane by circular knitting machine. The sock is improved by adding antifungal treatments. The improvement depends on the impregnation of ethylcellulose microcapsules with olive oil on the textile surface. Olive oil also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it very effective in treating infections and itching. The morphological characterization of the microcapsules was studied. Structural characterization, using Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy, confirmed the encapsulation of the olive oil. Thermal characterization by Thermogravimetric Analysis and Differential Thermal Analysis showed the encapsulation of olive oil and the thermal stability with the charged microcapsules. The encapsulation efficiency is 64%. The release of olive oil from ethylcellulose microcapsules has been proven by studying the kinetic of diffusion through a pig skin. The liberation and the crossing of olive oil are studied through the pig skin. Then the pathological effect of microencapsulated socks is obtained together.
Measurement of district health system strengthening efforts for maternal and newborn health service delivery: Synchronized application of evaluation models in the West Nile region, Uganda, 2019-2021
Authors: Muhumuza Simon , Lutalo Ibrahim M. , Ssendiwala Julius , Latigi Grace , Pirio Patricia , Msukwa Chimwemwe , Mwanyumba Fabian , Gohar Fatima , Hailegebriel Tedbabe Degefie , Asfaw Atnafu Getachew , Bergh Anne-Marie 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction Uganda has high maternal, neonatal, and under-five mortality rates. Between 2019 and 2021, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other partners, implemented a maternal and newborn health (MNH) quality improvement programme in the West Nile region of Uganda to improve the delivery and utilization of MNH services. This study describes the application of health system evaluation models to measure improvements in health system capacity and the quality of MNH services. Methods We designed two novel health system evaluation models—the Progression and ServQual models—which progressively measure improvements in health system capacity and quality of health services. The progression model was designed to measure changes in health system capacity using a set of indicators and benchmarks. For each health system component, the tool generates scores as follows: >90% for level 4 progression (surpasses basic expectations); 70–90% for level 3 (meets basic expectations); 50-<70% for level 2 (needs improvement); and < 50% for level 1 progression (needs urgent attention). The quality of MNH services was measured through annual client satisfaction surveys using the ServQual model. The identified health system capacity and service quality gaps were used to inform corrective action. Results Overall, the average health system capacity scores across the 12 districts increased from 62.9% (level 2) in 2019 to 71.2% (level 3) in 2021. The capacity scores for each health system component increased: governance and leadership increased from 67.7–74.1%, health financing increased from 67.4–69.3%, access to essential medicines increased from 50.2–77.0%, the health information system increased from 71.8–74.9%, the health workforce increased from 56.8–66.9%, and MNH service delivery increased from 63.5–64.5%. Client satisfaction with the quality of MNH services increased from 26.5% in 2019 to 39.8% in 2021. Conclusion The MNH program improved health systems, contributing to efforts to reduce maternal, neonatal, and under-five mortality in the West Nile region. The evaluation models are important tools for measuring the effects of health system strengthening efforts.
Retrospective study of prevalence and associated risk factors of patellar luxation in dogs at two Veterinary Teaching Hospitals in Southern Thailand
Authors: Thewaprasitchai Surasit , Iamwatcharin Tanyarat , Nasorn Tarayut , Hayeeyapa Rusnanee , Limlenglert Parkorn , Saenubol Phitchaya , Lampang Kannika Na 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Patellar luxation (PL) is one of the most common orthopedic problems in dogs that causes chronic painful lameness of the hindlimb, and degenerative change of the stifle joint. Limited epidemiological data is available on the diseases associated with the canine population in Southern Thailand. This study reported on the prevalence and associated risk factors of PL in dogs examined at Veterinary Teaching Hospitals in Southern Thailand. Medical records were collected from 267 dogs treated in the orthopedic units of two small animal hospitals in Southern Thailand between January 2020 and June 2023. The prevalence of PL in dogs was 19.10% (95%CI 14.67–24.44) with incidence typically at 2 years of age or above. Most luxations were medial (90.79%), and 58.82% of the affected dogs were female. Unilateral luxation was diagnosed in 31.25%, and bilateral luxation in 68.75% of dogs with medial PL, while 87.50% of dogs with medial PL weighed 1–10 kg. Most dogs were classified as PL grade III (40.79%). Multivariable analyses showed that purebred dogs were 15.58 times more likely to develop PL compared with crossbred dogs (95%CI 3.61–67.26, P < 0.001), while dogs weighing 1–10 kg were 6.59 times more likely to develop PL compared with dogs weighing > 10 kg (95%CI 2.85–15.22, P < 0.001). The prevalence rate of dogs diagnosed with PL at two Veterinary Teaching Hospitals in Southern Thailand was low.
Temporal forecasting of plant height and canopy diameter from RGB images using a CNN-based regression model for ornamental pepper plants (Capsicum spp.) growing under high-temperature stress
Authors: Ruiz-Gonzalez Ruben , Nascimento Antonia Maiara Marques do , Santos Marcos Bruno da Costa , Porto Rutten Kécio Soares de Brito , Medeiros Artur Mendes , Santos Fábio Sandro dos , Martínez-Martínez Víctor , Barroso Priscila Alves 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Being capable of accurately predicting morphological parameters of the plant weeks before achieving fruit maturation is of great importance in the production and selection of suitable ornamental pepper plants. The objective of this article is evaluating the feasibility and assessing the performance of CNN-based models using RGB images as input to forecast two morphological parameters: plant height and canopy diameter. To this end, four CNN-based models are proposed to predict these morphological parameters in four different scenarios: first, using as input a single image of the plant; second, using as input several images from different viewpoints of the plant acquired on the same date; third, using as input two images from two consecutive weeks; and fourth, using as input a set of images consisting of one image from each week up to the current date. The results show that it is possible to accurately predict both plant height and canopy diameter. The RMSE for a forecast performed 6 weeks in advance to the actual measurements was below 4.5 cm and 4.2 cm, respectively. When information from previous weeks is added to the model, better results can be achieved and as the prediction date gets closer to the assessment date the accuracy improves as well.
The Chilean Laja Lake: multi-objective analysis of conflicting water demands and the added value of optimization strategies
Authors: Bovermann Zoë Erna , Fallah-Mehdipour Elahe , Arumí José Luis , Dietrich Jörg 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Water scarcity leads to conflicts over water allocation. Laja Lake in Chile is a natural lake, which was formed by a volcanic barrier. Outflow from the lake is created by seepage through the barrier and via a controllable artificial outlet, which adds reservoir characteristics to the lake. Hydroelectric power stations have been built at both outlets. Downstream, water is diverted into irrigation canals, and the Laja River forms the Laja Falls, a popular tourist attraction. The previous operating policy preferred the most upstream water user and was found to be inadequate because the lake level decreased over long term. The current reservoir operation policy was established through stakeholder negotiations. This study investigated whether optimization (using Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II) can further improve the operation of Laja Lake while maintaining a fair balance between stakeholder groups. The results were compared with the stakeholder agreement and the previous policy. The main difference is in the spring, when Laja Lake fills up before the irrigation season starts. The optimization strategy prioritizes hydropower generation during this period, resulting in reduced storage. Ultimately, optimization proves to be a valuable tool for identifying trade-offs and exploring different scenarios in water management.
Resilient agriculture: water management for climate change adaptation in Lower Saxony
Authors: Cotera Rodrigo Valencia , Egerer Sabine , Nam Christine , Lierhammer Ludwig , Moors Lukas , Costa María Máñez 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Climate change has increased the intensity, frequency and duration of heatwaves and droughts in Europe turning water management into an even more complicated issue. Because water is a fundamental resource for agriculture, water management has to be addressed with climate change adaptation. While stakeholders in Lower Saxony are aware of adaptation measures they could implement to dampen the effects of climate change, evidence of the effectiveness of adaptation measures at a local scale is still missing. An analysis of adaptation measures using a new hydrological model was performed to test four adaptation measures suggested by stakeholders. Changing crops has the strongest effect followed by improving irrigation efficiency, humification and, finally, artificial aquifer recharge. If crops are changed, irrigation water demand and energy consumption could be reduced by up to 20.7%, costs could be reduced in 19.1%, the aquifer level could rise up to 284.85 mm and emissions could be reduced by 26.6% by the end of the century. Artificial recharge proved to be an inadequate method for the region as it does not impact the irrigation water demand, and an insufficient amount of water is available to have a substantial effect on the aquifer.
Jaboticaba Peel Extract Exerts Chemopreventive Effects in Transgenic
Mouse Model of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Nogueira-Lima Ellen , de Almeida Lamas Celina , Baseggio Andressa Mara , da Veiga Fernanda Cristina , Álvares Lucia Elvira , Júnior Mario Roberto Maróstica , Cagnon Valeria Helena Alves 
Published: February 2024

Introduction:
Angiogenesis, oxidative stress, and epigenetic alterations involved in prostate
cancer (PCa) are associated with different risk factors, such as a high-fat diet (HFD), overweight,
and obesity. Jaboticaba peel extract (PJE) has shown antiproliferative, antiangiogenic, and antioxidant
activities in the prostate of senile mice.

Method:
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of PJE on the dorsolateral prostate microenvironment
in male transgenic mice for the prostate adenocarcinoma model, considering different pathological
alterations, changed or unchanged by HFD, focusing on histopathology, and molecules related to
extracellular matrix (ECM), oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and Dact-1. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry
were performed on Dact-1-associated tumor suppressor genes in transgenic
mice. Mice were fed HFD and received patented jaboticaba peel extract (PJE) treatment. The plasma
levels of systemic oxidative stress were evaluated.

Results:
Our results showed that PJE protected the dorsolateral prostate against proliferation and
increased MMP9, TGFβ, and VEGF levels. PJE reduced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation by
modulating catalase, SOD 2, and 4HNE. PJE exhibited an epigenetic action, evidenced by increased
Dact-1 gene expression in PCa.

Conclusion:
PJE could be a natural protector of PCa and prostate lesions associated with HFD intake.
Experimental Study of Isopropyl Acetate and Acetone Additive Gasoline on a Spark-Ignition Engine and its Impact on Green Environment
Authors: Anbazhaghan N. , Neupane Gaurab , Lakshmanan T. , Jayaprabakar J. , Parthipan J. 
Published: February 2024

Background & Aim:
Gasoline engines using alcohol fuels are being researched in the
present trend since they are seen to be viable as diesel engines. The effect of isopropyl acetate and
acetone additive blends on gasoline is explored in this study using a single-cylinder four-stroke
gasoline engine operating at a constant speed of 2500 rpm under all loading conditions.

Methods:
Two gasoline blends are prepared by adding 5 % and 10 % by volume of isopropyl acetate
and acetone separately. Properties are investigated and tested for its engine performance and
emission.

objective:
There are not much research about the effect of Isopropyl acetate as a fuel additive in gasoline engine. Hence the main objective lies on extract information on using this additive in SI engine

Results:
The trial results demonstrated that the A5 (5% Acetone + 95% Gasoline) brake thermal efficiency
improved when compared to pure gasoline. At maximum engine load, all additive blends
have lower brake specific fuel consumption than pure gasoline. However, under full load, the emissions
of various additive blends are lower than those of pure gasoline.

Conclusión:
Results revealed that IA5 (5 % Isopropyl acetate + 95 % Gasoline), IA10 (10 % Isopropyl
acetate + 90 % Gasoline), and A10 (10 % Acetone + 90 % Gasoline) are considered good for
decreasing HC, NOx, and CO emissions respectively. The findings of this study can be considered
as a patent to lay the information on these types of alcohols in gasoline engines.
Manzana Verde: Uberizing the food service
Authors: Gallo Ernesto 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In her quest to elevate Manzana Verde to the esteemed status of a Unicorn, Larissa Arias drew inspiration from triumphant Latin American precedents, notably Rappi, valued at a staggering 3.5 billion. With the unwavering support of a venture capital firm committed to both social impact and scalability, Larissa ardently pursued this ambitious goal.
The Teaching Note to this Case Study is available on request via e-mail to ifamr@ifama.org.