bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of an Orthotopic Pulmonary Valve Replacement Porcine Model for Mechanical Heart Valve Thrombosis Research
Authors: Langenaeken Tom , De Meester Pieter , Hecke Manon Van , Meuris Arthur , Roets Jean , Verbrugghe Peter , Rega Filip , Meuris Bart 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective

Animal models play a vital role in preclinical cardiovascular testing of materials. While sheep have traditionally served as the standard for preclinical cardiovascular testing, pigs are considered a superior option due to a more comparable coagulation system. This study aimed to compare the thrombogenicity of sheep and pigs in a pulmonary valve replacement model.

Methods

Pigs (n = 12) and sheep (n = 5) underwent pulmonary valve replacement using a bileaflet mechanical valve without any antithrombotic postoperatively. The follow-up period extended to 5 months or until valve thrombosis. Valve performance was evaluated through by cardiac ultrasounds complemented by post-mortem macro- and microscopical analysis of the valve and downstream organs.

Results

In the pig cohort, terminal valve thrombosis occurred in all but one animal within a month. In the sheep cohort, all animals completed the 5-month follow-up period and post-mortem examination revealed thrombi-free valves with both leaflet mobile.

Conclusion

Sheep demonstrated insufficient thrombogenicity to induce mechanical valve thrombosis, while pigs exhibited rapid and substantial thrombosis on mechanical valves. These findings support the recommendation to transition to pigs as the standard model for valve thrombosis research.
Investigation of PM 2.5 chemical composition and associated health risk in residential microenvironments in Mumbai
Authors: Mandal Debayan , Chakraborty Abhishek , Tripathi Shruti , Sathish Yasarapu 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
We breathe in indoor air for 85–90% of our time. PM2.5 is a significant pollutant in indoor air. This study investigates elemental carbon (EC), organic carbon (OC), ions, and elemental composition of PM2.5 in two residential microenvironments (Room 1 and Room 2) and corresponding outdoors. Room 1 had no prominent biomass burning, whereas cooking and smoking were present in Room 2. The average concentration of OC were 19.51 µg/m3, 51.87 µg/m3, and EC were 2.53 µg/m3 and 7.20 µg/m3 in Room 1 and Room 2, respectively. The indoor-to-outdoor ratio (I/O) of EC was 0.58 for Room 1 and 1.01 for Room 2 .100% of EC in Room 1 was coming from outdoor; on the other hand, 41% of EC was indoor-generated in Room 2. Indoor secondary organic carbon (ISOC) was 1.04 times and 1.98 times higher than corresponding outdoor (OSOC) for Room 1 and Room 2, respectively. The I/O ratios of EC1 and EC2 were less than 1 in Room 1. The ratios were closer to 1 in Room 2 because of indoor cooking and smoking. K concentration was higher in Room 2 because of smoking. The hazard risk (HR) and cancer risk (CR) were calculated in all the indoor sites. Though the sites were hazard-free from airborne elements (all HR values < 1), the CR values were > 10− 4 in both the microenvironments from inhalation. Both indoor microenvironments were marginally cancer-risk-prone. This paper has shown that everyday household chores can alter indoor chemistry significantly from outdoor.
Efficacy and Safety of a Proprietary Punica Granatum Extract in a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Jeyakodi Shankaranarayanan , Krishnakumar Arunkanth , Dalal Meena , Shetty B. Sohandas 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Quality of life of individuals are closely linked to the health of one’s skin and the way our skin looks is the hallmark of normal aging. Clearly, healthy and glowing skin is no longer the job of traditional cosmetics alone. Therefore, the concept of beauty from within is a growing trend in the market and people now look for oral supplements that can enhance the well-being of skin from within. In this connection, a proprietary pomegranate extract (Grantria®), standardized to ellagic acid, punicic acid and punicalagin, developed using ADOP technology was clinically evaluated for its efficacy and safety in healthy adults. The evaluation was carried out as a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study for 60 days at a daily dose of 300 mg. Results of the study indicated that the Punica granatum extract significantly reduced crow’s feet wrinkles, tactile roughness, forehead fine lines, forehead wrinkles and improved skin radiance compared to the placebo in 60 days. Other skin health attributes like pores, spots and UV pigmentation were also observed to exhibit significant changes .The test group shown a significant improvement in skin tone evenness, skin moisturisation, elasticity and firmness compared to the baseline. The Tyrosinase biomarker levels observed to have a drop of 3% in the Grantria® supplemented group. In conclusion, Grantria® was found to be effective, safe and well accepted by the subjects making it a potential candidate for use in the supplements intended for maintaining healthy and glowing skin.
Nontuberculous Mycobacterium Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single Center Experience From North India
Authors: Dogra Pavitra Manu , Singh Vishal , Sood Vivek , Iyengar Sreenivasa S , Nair Ranjith , Arya Rohan , Ghosh Indranil , Shilimkar Vandan , Bahal Ashish 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are omnipresent in the environment. It is an important infectious complication in kidney transplantation (KT) due to an immunosuppressed state and has morbidity and mortality.
Methods:Kidney transplantation recipients (KTR) with NTM infection were assessed for associative factors and outcomes in this retrospective observational study.
Results:Amongst the 737 patients who underwent KT at our center between January 2011 and Jun 2023, five males and one female developed NTM infection. All had positive Ziehl Neelson (ZN) staining, negative GeneXpert test, and positive culture for NTM. The commonest site was subcutaneous infection. The mean age at NTM diagnosis was 29.5 ± 7.89 years. The median time of NTM infection from KT was 24 months (range, 4 – 113 months), and the median time of NTM confirmation from symptoms-onset was 27 days (range, 22 – 32 days). All had heightened immunosuppression i,e., recent deceased donor KT (DDKT) and anti-rejection treatment. The median time to development of NTM from DDKT/allograft-rejection was 21.5 months (4 – 40 months). The relative risk (RR) for NTM infection with exposure to anti-thymocyte globulin, rituximab, and mycophenolic acid was 12.6 (p=0.08), 10.3 (p=0.13), and 9.2 (p=0.13) respectively. All NTM patients were successfully treated; four had stable allograft function, whereas two had allograft failure.
Conclusion: NTM infection was only seen in KTRs with heightened immunosuppression. A high index of suspicion and low threshold for mycobacterial culture is mandatory for early NTM diagnosis and good treatment response.
Mortality of Finnish Bronchiectasis Patients
Authors: Mäntylä Jarkko , Mazur Witold , Törölä Tanja , Bergman Paula , Kauppi Paula 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Patients suffering frequent exacerbations of bronchiectasis (BE) are likely to experience more negative effects on quality of life and utilize more healthcare. We aimed to study the predictive factors for mortality in a cohort of Finnish BE patients.
Methods
In this 4-year follow-up study, the data of non-cystic fibrosis adult BE patients were collected annually from medical records. Finnish translation of the disease-specific quality of life-bronchiectasis (QoL-B) questionnaire, the bronchiectasis severity index (BSI), FACED score, E-FACED score, and modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnoea scale were used. Cox’s regression analysis was used to evaluate factors with mortality.
Results
Overall, 79% of 95 BE patients were women with mean age of 69 years (SD ± 13). During the follow-up, eight patients died (8.4%). High scores of FACED (HR 1.9, CI 1.2–3.1), E-FACED (HR 1.6, CI 1.1–2.2), BSI (HR 1.2, CI 1.0–1.4) and mMRC (HR 3.4, CI 1.6–7.3) were predictive for mortality. The specific aetiology of BE, however, does not affect mortality. Low score of domains in QoL-B, physical (p < 0.01), vitality (p = 0.01), respiration (p = 0.03) and health (p < 0.01), were correlated with mortality.
Conclusion
BSI or equivalent estimation for disease severity gives more specific predictive values for survival. In our study, FACED and mMRC were the strongest predictive tools for BE mortality. Patients with poor survival had poorer QoL.
Learning Curve of Laparoscopic Liver Resection: Experience with the First 150 Cases of a Self-Taught Pioneer Surgeon
Authors: Arrechea Ramiro , Aragone Lucia , Veracierto Federico Yael , Maurette Rafael , Pirchi Daniel 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
BACKROUND: The learning curve (LC) of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) can be long, depending on the patient, tumor features, and surgeon training. Our aim was to evaluate LC in LLR performed by a self-taught "pioneer" surgeon and to analyze its evolution.
METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted between December 2008 and February 2023.The series was divided chronologically into three equal groups. LC was evaluated by analyzing the surgical difficulty according to the IWATE criteria and intra- and postoperative results.
RESULTS: 150 patients underwent LLR, which were divided into 3 periods. A significant increase in the difficulty of cases was observed, as reflected in the mean IWATE (p=0.00001). Conversion rate (p=0.117), "hand-assisted" resection rate (p=0.004), and median time adjusted by the number of resections (p=0.705) decreased. The number of resections per case (p=0.017) and mean blood loss (p=0.465) increased. Finally, there was a significant reduction in postoperative complications (p=0.024) and mean length of hospital stay (p=0.005).
DISCUSION: This study confirmed an improvement in LC after LLR. Although there was no significant reduction in the mean blood loss rate and mean surgical time, this may be a consequence of selecting more difficult cases and increasing the number of resections per case.
Determinants of the sustainability of Congolese VSEs and SMEs: a cross-sectional analysis Léon
Authors: Mayéko Léon , MAYEKOL Garincha Neskens 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to analyse the factors that can influence the sustainability of very small businesses (VSEs) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Congo.
Double least squares is the method used, based on census data from the Ministry of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Crafts and the Informal Sector and the National Institute of Statistics.
The results show that the factors explaining the sustainability of these businesses are the age and gender of the owner-manager, the size of the initial capital invested, the legal form, the location in an urban area and the growth of the business. Difficulties in accessing credit, electricity and raw materials are the main constraints on the survival of very small Congolese businesses.
JEL classification : M21, L2, L22.
Up-regulation of Notch signaling and cell-differentiation inhibitory transcription factors in the lower airways of stable COPD patients
Authors: Stefano Antonino Di , Gnemmi Isabella , Rosani Umberto , Maniscalco Mauro , D’Anna Silvestro Ennio , Brun Paola , Carriero Vitina , Bertolini Francesca , Ricciardolo Fabio LM 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: Notch signalling is involved in the prevention of cell differentiation and of cell fate in various organs, including the lung.
Objective: To determine transcriptomic and protein expression of Notch receptors, its ligands and related transcription factors in stable COPD.
Methods: The expression and localization of Notch receptors, its ligands and related transcription factors were measured in bronchial biopsies of stable mild/moderate (MCOPD) (n=18), severe/very severe (SCOPD) (n=16), COPD, control smokers (CS) (n=13) and control non-smokers (CNS) (n=11), in lung parenchyma of MCOPD (n=13), CS (n=10) and CNS (n=10) using immunohistochemistry, ELISA tests and transcriptome analysis. In “in vitro” experiments Notch pathway was analysed after LPS and H2O2 stimulation of 16HBE cells.
Main Results: In bronchial biopsies Notch4 and HES7 significantly increased in the lamina propria of SCOPD compared to MCOPD, CS and CNS. In peripheral lung bronchiolar epithelium Notch1 significantly increased in MCOPD and CS compared to CNS. In alveolar macrophages Notch2 and DLL4 significantly increased in CS compared to CNS. ELISA tests of lung parenchyma homogenates showed significantly increased levels of Notch2 in MCOPD compared to CS and CNS. Transcriptomic data from bronchial rings showed increased DLL1 mRNA levels in CS compared to CNS. In the lung parenchyma DLL4 and HES1 mRNA levels were increased in MCOPD and CS compared to CNS. In vitro stimulation of 16HBE cells with LPS induced a significant increase in DLL4, Notch2, HES1 and HES7 at 4h after challenge. H2O2 stimulation up-regulated significantly HES1 and HES7 at 4h and 24h after challenge.
Conclusion: These data show an increased expression of the Notch pathway in the lung of stable COPD. These alterations may play a role in impairing the regenerative-reparative responses of the diseased bronchioles and lung parenchyma.
SKP1: A novel target for prognosis predicting and precise treatment in human cancers
Authors: He Wei-Ying 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Prior research has demonstrated the intimate connection between cancer and S-phase kinase associated protein 1 (SKP1). Nevertheless, how SKP1 manifests in pan-cancer has not yet been fully clarified.
Methods
The current study aimed to completely examine the expression and prognosis prediction abilities of SKP1 in pan-cancer, utilizing a total of 11123 samples from 33 different forms of cancer. We also investigated the relationship between SKP1 expression and immunological microenvironment and genomic heterogeneity. Besides, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) provided insight into potential SKP1 involvement pathways in pan-cancer.
Results
SKP1 had various expression levels in different tissues and tumors. Its expression level was correlated with immune check point genes, mismatch repair genes, and some DNA methyltransferases. Furthermore, it was discovered that SKP1 expression was linked to microsatellite instability, tumor mutational burden, and neoantigen counts, indicating the therapeutic utility of SKP1 in cancers. Furthermore, it was discovered that SKP1 could identify and predict prognosis in a number of cancers. The majority of mRNA and protein level datasets on stomach adenocarcinoma showed that tumors expressed higher levels of SKP1 than did non-tumor samples. Finally, MIR497HG/hsa-miR-942-5p-SKP1 might be the potential regulatory pathway in stomach adenocarcinoma.
Conclusion
SKP1 may act as a novel target for prognosis predicting in human cancers and promotes the precise treatment for patients.
Prognostic Significance of Sarcopenia and Systemic Inflammatory Markers in Biliary Tract Cancer
Authors: Utsumi Masashi , Inagaki Masaru , Kitada Koji , Tokunaga Naoyuki , Yonoki Kosuke , Sakurai Yuya , Okabayashi Hiroki , Hamano Ryosuke , Miyasou Hideaki , Tsunemitsu Yousuke , Otsuka Shinya 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the prognostic significance of sarcopenia and systemic inflammatory markers in patients with surgically resected biliary tract cancer (BTC).
Methods
Between July 2010 and December 2022, 146 patients were recruited. Sarcopenia was assessed using the psoas muscle index. Preoperative inflammatory markers were used to calculate the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio. Cox regression analysis was performed to determine prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
Sixty-four patients had sarcopenia. Sarcopenia was associated with body mass index (< 22 kg/m2), lymph node metastasis, and low PNI (< 42). R1/R2 resection (P = 0.02), sarcopenia (P < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.007), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (P < 0.001), and low PNI (P = 0.01) were independent predictors of OS, while male sex (P = 0.04), R1/R2 resection (P < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.005), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (P < 0.001), tumor differentiation (other than well; P = 0.003), and low PNI (P = 0.03) were independent predictors of RFS. Patients were stratified into no sarcopenia and high PNI (≥ 42; A), sarcopenia or low PNI (B), and sarcopenia and low PNI (C) groups. Group C had worse OS than the other two groups (P < 0.001 and P = 0.02, respectively).
Conclusion
Sarcopenia is associated with the PNI. Sarcopenia and the PNI are independent prognostic factors in BTC. Sarcopenia may have better prognostic value when combined with the PNI.
Weaving Legacies: AR-Enhanced Exploration of GI Heritage Mangalagiri Saree Tradition
Authors: Rupa Ch. , Harshitha M. Madhu , Vineetha M. S. , Shah Mohd Asif 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Augmented Reality (AR) stands as a transformative force, uniting the physical and digital realms. Geographical indication (GI) is a unique label on products, signaling their specific geographical origin and the reputation derived from the origin. Mangalagiri Sarees attained the GI Tag in 2010 under the GI of Goods Act of 1999. Mangalagiri fabric is crafted through pit looms, employing combed yarn and interlacing the “warp-woof” in the process. Integrating GI with AR to provide real-time insights into product origin, production methods, and distinctive traits, the preservation of Mangalagiri saree weaving, an ancient craft embedded in profound cultural heritage, contributes to both local economies and cultural heritage. Existing methods lack interactive tools to educate consumers on GI-labeled product intricacies. The proposed system employs a mobile application using Unity 3D, Vuforia and C# for AR experience. Image targets activate videos, images, and 3D models, providing a detailed Mangalagiri saree production narrative. Enhancing consumer awareness fosters a deeper connection to cultural heritage, and makes the age-old craft more accessible to a broader audience.
Investigation of the Effects of Some Varnish Types Used in the Furniture Industry on Woodworking Performance of Laser
Authors: Açık Cebrail 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In recent years, laser wood processing method has become quite common. On the other hand, in order to ensure the persistence of the wooden material, its upper surfaces must be covered with. In this study, the effects of the caused by the laser beam on the most preferred varnish types of the wood surface treatment, by the CNC laser wood processing technology were investigated. Beech wood test specimens were coated with cellulosic varnish, synthetic varnish, polyurethane varnish and acrylic varnish and their layer thickness was also measured. Based to the data obtained, it was evaluated the effects of various varnish layers on the kerf depth and upper kerf width in laser cutting compared to the control sample without varnish. In addition, the effects of varnish layers on laser wood engraving were investigated. As a result, it was concluded that some varnishes weakened the laser cutting performance of the control samples, while some varnishes increased it. In addition, all varnish types have a positive effect on laser cutting performance by reducing the upper kerf width of the laser cutting notch. In wood engraving with laser, all varnish types have weakened the laser engraving performance.
Diverse Decarbonization Pathways Under Near Cost-Optimal Futures
Authors: Sinha Aditya , Venkatesh Aranya , Jordan Katherine , Wade Cameron , Eshraghi Hadi , de Queiroz Anderson , Jaramillo Paulina , Johnson Jeremiah 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Energy system optimization models offer insights into energy and emissions futures through least-cost optimization. However, real-world energy systems often deviate from deterministic scenarios, highlighting the need for rigorous exploration of uncertainty in macro-energy system modeling. This study uses modeling techniques to generate a diverse array of near cost-optimal net-zero CO2 pathways for the United States’ energy system. Our findings reveal several consistent trends across these pathways, including the rapid expansion of solar and wind power generation, substantial reductions in petroleum use, near elimination of coal combustion, and increased end-use electrification. We also observe varying levels of deployment for natural gas, hydrogen, direct air capture of CO2, and synthetic fuels. Notably, coal with carbon capture and sequestration and synthetic liquid fuels exhibit high adoption rates but only in a limited subset of decarbonization pathways. We uncover interconnected technologies by analyzing technology adoption correlations and energy system interactions. These results demonstrate that diverse pathways for deep decarbonization exist at comparable system-level costs, providing insights into the portfolio of technologies that enable a near cost-optimal net-zero CO2 future.
Zinc transporters expression profile in professional handball players supplemented with zinc
Authors: Molina-López Jorge , Florea Daniela , Gamarra-Morales Yenifer , Herrera-Quintana Lourdes , Vázquez-Lorente Héctor , Hogstrand Christer , Planells Elena 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Zinc (Zn) deficiency has been described not only on general human health but also within the sports context −as negatively affecting performance–. Thus, Zn status assessment is of great interest for athletes, especially in order to correct deficiency states of this mineral.
Objective: The overall objective of this work was to assess Zn status in professional handball players during the competitive period (through plasma levels, dietary intake and gene expression of the Zn transporters), as well as to determine the effect of Zn supplementation.
Methods: A total of twenty-two participants were recruited, −twelve belonged to the Control Group (CG) and ten male handball players comprised the experimental group (ATH-G)−, being monitored over a 2-month period with 2 evaluation moments: baseline (i.e., initial conditions) and follow-up (i.e., after 8 weeks of training and competition). Zn intake, plasma Zn levels, and gene expression of Zn transporters were obtained.
Results: Plasma Zn levels were higher in ATH-G than in CG at the end of Zn intervention (p ≤0.010). Moreover, differences in the gene expression profile of Zn transporters were observed in ATH-G −with the down-regulation of several Zn transporters−, compared to the CG at baseline (p ≤0.05). Likewise, Zn intervention modified the expression of Zn transporters in ATH-G at 8 weeks (all, p ≤0.001) −ZnT2, ZnT5, ZIP3, ZIP5, ZIP11, ZIP13 and ZIP14 transporters being up-regulated−.
Conclusion: Handball players seemed to have different nutritional needs for Zn, with differences in the gene expression of Zn transporters compared to controls. Zn intervention, in our athletes, modified the expression of Zn transporters, so we could deduce that Zn transporters up-regulation may have increased to mobilise Zn at the cellular level at 8 weeks of Zn intervention.