bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differences in Risk Factors and Predictors of Preterm Twin Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: A retrospective study
Authors: LI Jinfeng , DUMBUYA John Sieh , CHEN Qian , ZHONG Xinqi 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
To evaluate the differences in clinical characteristics, BPD risk factors and predictors in preterm twin infants.
Methods
A retrospective, single-centre study was conducted on preterm twins admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, from January 2021 to December 2022. Data, including perinatal and critical postpartum data, were collected for twin pairs with gestational age (GA) ≤ 31 weeks and birth weight ≤ 2500 g from clinical medical records, including perinatal data and critical postpartum information. Chi-square or nonparametric tests and multiple logistic regression models were used to analyse significant clinical parameters and characteristics for BPD between the two groups and to compare risk factors, respectively.
Results
A total of 233 twin infants were included in this study. Among them, 183 pairs had BPD, consisting of 366 twin infants. Among twins with BPD, 184 (50.3%) were discordant, and 182 (49.7%) were in one of the twin pairs with BPD. Extremely low birth weight infants (< 1000 g) and extremely preterm infants (GA < 28 weeks) were typical of twin pairs with both BPD (35.9% and 52.7%), while low birth weight infants (< 2500 g) and very preterm infants (GA > 28 < 31 weeks) were more common in one of the twin pairs with BPD (35 .2% and 86.8%). Preterm infants with a length/height between 25 cm and 35 cm were typically twin pairs with BPD (79.7% vs 20.3%). Among the twin pairs with both BPDs, 94 (51.1%) had a head circumference of 22–26 cm compared with 34 (18.7%). Among the risk factors, asphyxia, PDA, RDS, pulmonary hypertension, ROP, IVH, bloodstream infections, hypothyroidism, and hypoproteinaemia were more prevalent in both pairs of twins with BPD. Among the interventions, HFV, IMV, BiPAP, oxygen therapy, and HFNC therapy had significantly different effects on the two groups. The duration of these interventions also significantly differed between the two groups.
Conclusions
These data demonstrated that risk factors and predictors of BPD in preterm twins vary in magnitude and severity, particularly in extremely low birth weight infants, extremely preterm infants with smaller head circumferences, and infants with short length/height. The need for mechanical ventilation, duration of ventilation, and medication use increased in pairs of twins with both BPD. Thus, this study adds to the existing knowledge on the early detection of risk factors and stratification of clinical management strategies for preterm twins at the individual level.
Partial-privacy Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Time-varying Delayed Exponentially Controlled Chaotic System
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Ru , Liu Jianyi 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

To enhance privacy protection for specific regions within an image while preserving its overall visual integrity, this paper presents a visual encryption algorithm targeting partial privacy-sensitive areas. Initially, a novel time-varying delayed exponentially controlled chaotic system (1-TDEC) is proposed. It utilizes the current precision value to modify the system input in a real-time manner, effectively counteracting the dynamic degradation, and making it more suitable for image encryption algorithms designs. Subsequently, the Mask-RCNN instance segmentation model is incorporated to capture the pixel coordinates of different contents in the image, allowing for access to specific area information as required. Furthermore, this encryption algorithm employs a comprehensive permutation process along with parallel bit-shift coupling, effectively transforming the image target areas into visually meaningless forms. It also employs bit-plane theory, providing encryptors the flexibility to set different decryption access levels by manipulating the key stream length from the chaotic system, thus enabling user-specific decryption control. Finally, the comprehensive performance analysis results highlight that the designed algorithm achieves a maximum information entropy value of 7.9998 in encrypted images. Moreover, its resistance to differential attacks (as measured by NPCR and UACI) and pixel correlation are infinitely close to the ideal state, significantly underscoring its security and effectiveness.
Sexual Functions in Men with Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens: A Comparative Study.
Authors: Baydilli Numan , Akınsal Emre , Tosun Halil , Kızılay Emrah , Sonmez Gokhan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

This study examines the sexual and psychological conditions of men with Bilateral Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens (CBAVD), a rare condition that contributes to male infertility, and compares it with healthy fertile men. A total of 52 patients with CBAVD and 66 healthy, fertile men who attended our infertility and andrology clinic were included in the study. Patients with cognitive impairments, language barriers, significant comorbidities, or a history of urogenital surgery were excluded. Reproductive hormone levels and semen volumes were evaluated. In addition, sexual status was investigated with validated questionnaires such as the International Index of erectile function, Male sexual health questionnaire, and Premature ejaculation profile. Semen volume was significantly lower in CBAVD men. The results showed that there was no significant difference between the CBAVD and control groups in terms of erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual relationship satisfaction. However, sexual desire and overall satisfaction were found to be higher in the CBAVD group. The study suggests that CBAVD may not be a direct etiological factor for erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.
Synthesis and Characterization of UV-Curable Polyurethane Acrylates Derived from Trimethylolpropane and Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate: Effect of HEMA Content on Thermal Stability, Gloss Properties, and Microstructure
Authors: Eren Bilge , Karaçoban Esra Demir , Erdoğan Beyhan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
This study presents the synthesis of a series of UV-curable polyurethane acrylates (PUAs) derived from trimethylolpropane (TMP) and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) through a one-step polymerization method. The phase analysis using FTIR reveals distinct vibration bands corresponding to different functional groups within the polyurethane structure. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrates two degradation steps in UV-cured PUA3/0 films, revealing the influence of HEMA content on thermal stability. Gloss properties exhibit a complex relationship with HEMA content, with initial improvement followed by a decline, emphasizing the impact on film glossiness. Hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties, measured by contact angle values, indicate increased crosslinking and less polar surfaces with higher HEMA content. Microstructure analysis using SEM demonstrates that UV-cured PUA3/0 films achieve effective chemical crosslinking and a dense microstructure, contributing to enhanced film properties.
Environmental factors and genetic parameters of growth traits in Tunisian local sheep
Authors: Souf Ikram Ben , Saidani Mariem , M’Hamdi Hajer , Mhamdi Naceur 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the growth performance of lambs from four Tunisian sheep breeds. It involved 45780 lambs in 134 flocks from 99 farms. The zootechnical data (live weight, average daily gain) for the period 2011–2016 were obtained from the C of Genetic Improvement of the Office of Livestock and Pastures in Sidi Thabet. The results obtained showed a significant difference in weight and daily gains at typical ages. Lambs from single births were heavier than lambs from double births (1.05 ± 0.14 and 1 ± 0,01 kg). ADGs were influenced by the sex-mode of birth (P < 0.05). Single-born lambs showed higher ADGs, followed by twice-born lambs. The genetic type factor significantly influenced the growth of the lambs (P < 0.05). However, it should be noted that performance (weight growth and average daily gain) was better at the QFO breed. The age of the dams showed higher ADGs in lambs from dams aged 3 to 4 years, while the lowest ADGs were recorded in lambs from dams aged 5 years and older. The heritability coefficients of weights at different ages were estimated at 0.16 ± 0.04 for ADG3060 and 0.48 ± 0.03 for W10. The lowest values were observed for the ADG3060 (0.16 ± 0.021). The highest value is obtained for P10. Estimates of the genetic correlation for W10 with other parameters (W60, ADG0030, and ADG3060) were of the order of 14–42% of the variability.
Social Determinants of Health and Language Outcomes in Preterm Infants with Public and Private Insurance
Authors: Vohr Betty , Batta Arya , McGowan Elisabeth , Tucker Richard 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate associations of maternal social determinants of health (SDOH) with language outcomes of preterm infants with public and private insurance.
Study Design
Single center study of 375 neonates born ≤ 28 weeks. Perinatal characteristics were collected, and the Bayley III was administered at 18–24 months. Primary outcome was language scores of < 85. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were used to compare groups.
Results
Mothers with public insurance had higher rates of psychosocial risk factors. In regression analysis, People of Color (aOR 2.4, 1.47–4.04), non-English speaking household (aOR 4.05, 1.47–11.15) and public insurance (aOR 2.03, 1.18–3.49) significantly increased the odds of having a language composite score of < 85, whereas breast milk (aOR 0.47, 0.28–0.79) was protective.
Conclusions
Preterm children with public insurance combined with specific SDOH are at increased risk of language delay. Providers have an opportunity to reshape health-care protocols and policies to address social determinants that impact outcomes.
MiR-146a Reduces Fibrosis after Glaucoma Filtration Surgery in Rats
Authors: Han Ruiqi , Zhong Huimin , Zhang Yang , Yu Huan , Zhang Yumeng , Huang Shouyue , Yang Zijian , Zhong Yisheng 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the impact of microRNA 146a (miR-146a) and the underlying mechanisms in profibrotic changes following glaucoma filtering surgery (GFS) in rats and stimulation by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in rat Tenon’s capsule fibroblasts.
Methods: Cultured rat Tenon's capsule fibroblasts were treated with TGF-β1 and analyzed with microarrays for mRNA profiling to validate miR-146a as the target. The Tenon’s capsule fibroblasts were then respectively treated with lentivirus-mediated transfection of miR-146a mimic or inhibitor following TGF-β1 stimulation in vitro, while GFS was performed in rat eyes with respective intraoperative administration of miR-146a, mitomycin C (MMC), or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in vivo. Profibrotic genes expression levels (fibronectin, collagen Iα, NF-KB, IL-1β，TNF-α，SMAD4, and α-smooth muscle actin) were determined through qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining and/or histochemical analysis in vitro and in vivo. SMAD4 targeting siRNA was further used to treat the fibroblasts in combination with miR-146a intervention to confirm its role in underlying mechanisms.
Results: Upregulation of miR-146a reduced the proliferation rate and profibrotic changes of rat Tenon's capsule fibroblasts induced by TGF-β1 in vitro, and mitigated subconjunctival fibrosis to extend filtering blebs survival after GFS in vivo, where miR-146a decreased expression levels of NF-KB-SMAD4-related genes, such as fibronectin, collagen Iα, NF-KB, IL-1β，TNF-α，SMAD4, and α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA). Additionally, SMAD4 is a key target gene in the process of miR-146a inhibiting fibrosis.
Conclusions: MiR-146a effectively reduced TGF-β1-induced fibrosis in rat Tenon’s capsule fibroblasts in vitro and in vivo, potentially through the NF-KB-SMAD4 signaling pathway. MiR-146a shows promise as a novel therapeutic target for preventing fibrosis and improving the success rate of GFS.
Generation of selenium-rich wheat mutants and exploration of responsive genes for selenium accumulation
Authors: Shi Tengteng , Wang Yanrong , Li Yuetong , Sui Xinying , Dong Chun-Hai 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Selenium is an essential trace element for the human body, and its deficiency can lead to various diseases such as Keshan disease and large bone disease. Wheat, being a major staple crop, plays a crucial role in providing dietary selenium supplementation to combat this deficiency. Despite progress in understanding the molecular regulation of selenium accumulation in certain crops, the molecular mechanisms governing selenium accumulation-related gene expression in wheat plants remain poorly understood. In this study, three mutant wheat lines with elevated selenium content were identified. These mutant lines, alongside a wild-type control, were treated with salt and sodium selenite to assess their tolerance. To uncover the genes involved in the regulation of selenium accumulation, transcriptome sequencing was performed. To gain insights into the functions and pathways associated with the selenium-regulated genes, various bioinformatics tools and analyses, including gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, were utilized. The results revealed that the important genes encoding glutathione S-transferases, peroxidases, superoxide dismutases, and UDP-glucosyltransferases may function in the regulation of salt tolerance and selenium accumulation in wheat. The genes such as TaAPX8 and TaCPTISO showing dramatic alteration of transcript levels in the mutant lines are likely involved in selenium accumulation. These findings undoubtedly advance our understanding of the molecular regulation of selenium accumulation in wheat crops.
Conducting successful artificial insemination (AI) by laparotomy in African lion (Panthera leo)
Authors: Ekrami Behrang , Ghasemzadeh-Nava Hamid , Baghbadorani Maziar Kaveh , Nosrati Fereshteh 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Assisted reproduction technologies including artificial insemination could play an important role in preserving the population of the vulnerable species. In this study, we collected semen from two male lions by using urethral catheterization under general anesthesia. The provided semen was evaluated and a qualified sample with a volume of 0.4 milliliters was extended in a 1:4 ratio by using 1.6 milliliters of Tris-egg yolk-based extender. Stimulation of ovaries in three lionesses of the study was done by administration of 1000 IU of eCG. One hundred hours later, the expected signs of estrous were evident and 750 IU of human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) was administered to induce ovulation. AI was conducted 36 hours after hCG injection through mid-line laparotomy and injecting 0.25 cc of diluted semen with a concentration of 1×106 spermatozoa into each uterine horn by using an angiocath. Exanimation of the uterine horns of the inseminated lionesses was done 60 days after insemination by ultrasonography. It was found that one lioness out of three (33%) was pregnant and had a twin in her uterine horns. The pregnancy lasted for 115 days and two cubs were born by the pregnant lioness.
Assessment of the Correlation and Diagnostic Accuracy between CSF and Plasma AD Biomarkers: A Comparison of the Lumipulse and Simoa Platforms
Authors: Dakterzada Farida , Cipriani Raffaela , López-Ortega Ricard , Arias Alfonso , Riba-Llena Iolanda , Ruiz-Julián Maria , Huerto Raquel , Tahan Nuria , Matute Carlos , Capetillo-Zarate Estibaliz , Piñol-Ripoll Gerard 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) plasma biomarkers related to amyloid (A), tau (T), and neurodegeneration (N) can potentially be used to identify these pathological features of the disease, as shown in recent studies. Our objective was to compare the clinical and analytical performance of plasma AD biomarkers measured using the single-molecule array (Simoa) and Lumipulse platforms.
Methods
We quantified ATN and AT plasma biomarkers in 127 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (n = 81), AD (n = 30), and non-AD dementia (n = 16) using a Simoa HD-1/HD-X analyser (Quanterix) and a Lumipulse G600II automated platform (Fujirebio Europe NV).
Results
We found a strong correlation between the Simoa and Lumipulse methods, although there were systematic differences between biomarker values measured by each method. Concerning the clinical diagnosis, Simoa Ptau181/Aβ42 (AUC 0.739, 95% CI 0.592–0.887) and Lumipulse Aβ42 and Ptau181/Aβ42 (AUC 0.735, 95% CI 0.589–0.882 and AUC 0.733, 95% CI 0.567-0.900) had the highest discriminating power. However, their power was significantly lower than that of CSF Aβ42/Aβ40, as measured by Lumipulse (AUC 0.879, 95% CI 0.766–0.992). Similarly, Simoa Ptau181 and Lumipulse Ptau181/Aβ42 were the markers most consistent with the CSF Aβ42/Aβ40 status (AUC 0.801, 95% CI 0.712–0.890 vs. AUC 0.870, 95% CI 0.806–0.934, respectively) at the ≥ 2.127 and ≥ 0.084 cut-offs, respectively.
Conclusions
The Simoa and Lumipulse plasma AD assays showed comparable clinical and analytical performance. However, the performance of these biomarkers is weaker than that of CSF AD biomarkers. Interestingly, both platforms identify plasma Ptau181/Aβ42 as a promising biomarker for AD. At present, the analysed AD plasma biomarkers may be useful for screening to reduce the number of lumbar punctures in the clinical setting. However, the use of these markers as diagnostic tools requires further investigation.
OM85 ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice by inhibiting Notch expression and modulating the Th1/Th2 balance
Authors: 余 亚玲 , Li Zhuanyun , Hu Zhenghao , Peng Tianfeng , Niu Ruijie , Sun Peng , Wang Xiaorong , Zhang Jinnong 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Th1/Th2 balances may play a vital role in the processes of inflammation and fibrosis. OM-85 BV encouraged preferential development of the Th1-type immunity characterized by amplified IFN-γ and decreased IL-4 production. The objective of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory effect of OM85 on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in C57 and its possible mechanisms. In vitro experiments, OM85 inhibited protein expression of Notch1 and Hes1 induced by TGF-β1 and influence proliferation of fibroblast cell. OM85 also reduced the α-SMA expression induced by TGF-β1 in fibroblast. In vivo experiments, pulmonary fibrosis model was established by three-dose intratracheal instillation of BLM (1mg/kg). While control C57 received saline, C57 of the treated group simultaneously were then exposed to an aerosol containing 10.5 mg of OM85 dissolved in 10 mL of sterile PBS solution at day42,44,46,49,51,53. BLM induced pulmonary fibrosis, increased lung hydroxyproline levels, total cell counts, macrophages, neutrophils and Lymphocytes counts and expression of Notch1 and Hes1 in lung tissue. In addition, Th1 response is suppressed as shown by diminished IFN-γ in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and enhancement of Th2 response is marked by increased IL-4 in BALF. OM85 administration significantly attenuated these effects. The findings reveal the therapeutic potential of OM85 for BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis in female C57, which were at least partly due to inhibition notch1 and Hes1 expression and regulation of Th1/Th2 balance.
FASB: an integrated processing pipeline for Functional Analysis of simultaneous Spinal cord-Brain fMRI
Authors: Vahdat Shahabeddin , Landelle Caroline , Lungu Ovidiu , De Leener Benjamin , Doyon Julien , Baniasad Fatemeh 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Simultaneous functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of the spinal cord and brain represents a powerful method for examining both ascending sensory and descending motor pathways in humans in vivo. However, its image acquisition protocols, and processing pipeline are less well established. This limitation is mainly due to technical difficulties related to spinal cord fMRI, and problems with the logistics stemming from a large field of view covering both brain and cervical cord. Here, we propose an acquisition protocol optimized for both anatomical and functional images, as well as an optimized integrated image processing pipeline, which consists of a novel approach for automatic modeling and mitigating the negative impact of spinal voxels with low temporal signal to noise ratio (tSNR). We validate our integrated pipeline, named FASB, using simultaneous fMRI data acquired during the performance of a motor task, as well as during resting-state conditions. We demonstrate that FASB outperforms the current spinal fMRI processing methods in three domains, including motion correction, registration to the spinal cord template, and improved detection power of the group-level analysis by removing the effects of participant-specific low tSNR voxels, typically observed at the disk level. Using FASB, we identify significant task-based activations in the expected sensorimotor network associated with a unilateral handgrip force production task across the entire central nervous system, including the contralateral sensorimotor cortex, thalamus, striatum, cerebellum, brainstem, as well as ipsilateral ventral horn at C5-C8 cervical levels. Additionally, our results show significant task-based functional connectivity between the key sensory and motor brain areas and the dorsal and ventral horns of the cervical cord. Overall, our proposed acquisition protocol and processing pipeline provide a robust method for characterizing the activation and functional connectivity of distinct cortical, subcortical, brainstem and spinal cord regions in humans.
Enhancing the adoption of water-saving technologies in India’s Agriculture: The determinants across four states of India
Authors: Singh Gurpreet , Gandhi Vasant 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

India's food security is facing increasing threats from climate change, urbanization, affluence, and population growth. The nation grapples with low water use efficiencies, estimated at 25% to 35%, largely due to inadequate adoption of water-saving micro-irrigation (MI) technology. Recognizing the critical state of food security, this research delves into the barriers hindering the adoption of MI technology to address these challenges. The study employs a comprehensive conceptual framework for technology adoption, considering agronomic and agro-economic factors, effective demand, and aggregate supply constraints faced by farmers. Analyzing data from 501 adopters and non-adopters in four states, the research uses binomial and multiple regression analyses, along with assessing perception responses to identify key challenges in adoption. Among the findings, institutional support emerges as a crucial factor influencing technology adoption. Elements such as subsidy delivery, information dissemination, credit availability, and altering perceptions about water abundance significantly impact adoption rates. Wildlife damage to micro-irrigation systems is identified as a major threat, emphasizing the need for interventions to address this issue. The study underscores the importance of government interventions targeting these factors to encourage adoption rates, highlighting the potential for strategic measures such as a special purpose vehicle model for institutional support. Improving access to subsidies, information dissemination, and altering perceptions about water availability are identified as key strategies not only benefiting farmers but also contributing to national water conservation efforts and long-term food security.