bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A genetic study of FGG/FGA‎ mutations effect on D-dimer levels among COVID-19 patients in Jordan
Authors: AL-FAWARES O'la , Albalbaki Mohammad , Aburayyan Walid , Seder Nesrin , Shatnawi Mohammad Nazeeh 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This study aims to investigate the association between the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of fibrinogen genes (FGG/FGA) monitored by the D-Dimer elevated levels in COVID-19 Jordanian patients. Blood samples were collected from 120 participants among which 90 were infected with COVID-19 while the rest 30 were used as healthy controls. The potential association between mutations in the fibrinogen gene and the elevated D-Dimer levels in COVID-19 patients was examined using Multiplex PCR and Sequencing. The results showed a correlation coefficient of 0.378 and a p-value of < 0.00 between D-Dimer levels and Covid-19 status. In addition, the results showed an escalation in COVID-19 incidence in the relevant age group of‏ ‏the study population (r = 0.209, ‎p < 0.022)‎. However, the current findings indicate that there is no link between D-Dimer levels and FGA/FGG mutation. These results suggest that the presence or absence of mutations in the FGA and FGG genes does not significantly affect D-Dimer levels in COVID-19 patients among the Jordanian population. Further study was required to examine the association between other factors and the D-Dimer elevated levels of COVID-19.
Compaction of Course-Clastic Soils at an Experimental Site During the Earth Dam Construction
Authors: Artykbaev Darkhan , Nazarov Kamol , Kanat Baibolov 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
This paper examines the results of laboratory and field studies on the compaction of coarse-clastic soils. In the laboratory conditions, a 300 mm diameter vibratory unit and a standard compaction device, developed by SRI Soyuzdor, were used for the soil compaction. In the field conditions, the compaction was carried out using a smooth SANY-type roller weighing 27 tons. In the laboratory, to determine the maximum density and optimal moisture content, a dry soil density – moisture content curve was plotted; the maximum density and optimal moisture values were determined according to the maximum of the obtained curve. The paper presents the results of soil compaction in the field conditions at a layer thickness of 50, 70, and 80 cm. The densities in these cases were 2.19, 2.10, and 2.04 t/m3, respectively. The soil compaction was implemented using a 27-ton roller compactor for 6–8 passes along one track. In addition, the effectiveness of the applied method of drilling and blasting in a quarry for obtaining stone material with the required fractional composition is shown
Investigation on the Oxytocin Effect on Proliferation and Osteogenic/Odontogenic Differentiation of Human Stem Cells from the Apical Papilla: An in vitro study
Authors: Khoshbin Elham , rasooli maryam , najafi rezvan , Barabadi Zahra , Karkehabadi Hamed 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Objective
This experimental study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of oxytocin (OT) on the proliferation and osteo/odontogenic differentiation of human stem cells from the apical papilla (hSCAPs).
Material and Methods
hSCAPs were isolated from the apical papilla of the incomplete root of human third molar. MTT assay was performed in three concentrations of 25, 50 and 100 nM OT at 24, 48 and 72 hours to evaluate cell viability and proliferation. 100 nM OT was given to the experimental groups in osteogenic environment. Osteogenic differentiation of hSCAPs was evaluated using alizarin red staining, ALP activity and qPCR on days 7, 14 and 21. The ANOVA analysis, Tukey’s test, and t-test was implemented to analyze the data (α = 0.05).
Results
After 24 hours all there concentrations (25,50and 100nM) and after 48 and 72 hours only 100 nM concentration of OT had a significant positive effect on the survival/proliferation rate of hSCAPs (P < 0.001). Alizarin red staining evaluation showed successful differentiation of the cells of all groups. Quantitative analysis of the staining revealed treatment with OT increased the osteogenic differentiation of hSCAPs. Molecular analysis by qPCR showed increased expression of osteogenic genes, including ALP, COL1A1 and RUNX2, and as well as odontogenic genes, including DSPP, and DMP1. And also, ALP activity of the cells under OT treatment, at all three time points was higher than the control group.
Conclusion
The results of the present study showed that OT has a positive effect on the proliferation and osteo/odentogenic differentiation of hSCAPs. It suggested, the potential application of OT in regenerative endodontics.
Effects of freeze-thaw cycles on the quality of a novel mixed grain composite dough and its product (Potato-oat yu): hybridisation of potatoes and oats
Authors: Zhang Xi , Ren Guangyue , Liu Wenchao , Li Linlin , Cao Weiwei , Wang Libo , Duan Xu 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
This investigation examines changes in the quality of potato-oat composite dough and its resulting product during freeze-thaw cycles. The study reviews key aspects such as moisture content, dynamic rheological properties, water state, protein secondary structure, colour, textural properties, and sensory assessment. The influence of these factors on the product's quality is analysed. The findings revealed that the freeze-thaw treatment caused a reduction in water content, freezable water, and deeply bound water, as well as an increase in weakly bound water, β-sheet, Random coil, and α-helix, and a decreased β-turn of the potato-oat composite dough. Additionally, the dough treated by freeze-thaw cycles resulted in darker colour and increased adhesiveness, springiness and cohesiveness. The sensory properties of the product were affected significantly after exceeding three freeze-thaw cycles. Moreover, an increase in the number of freeze-thaw cycles resulted in an upward trend of moisture content for the composite dough, whereas G' initially increased and then decreased. The G" of the composite dough peaked after the third freeze-thaw cycle. Therefore, the usage of potato oat composite dough should not exceed three cycles.
Feelings and care pathways of patients assessed for suspected Lyme borreliosis in the French Amazon: a qualitative study
Authors: CARTAU Tom , TAREAU Marc-Alexandre , Walter Gaelle , ELDIN Carole , DJOSSOU Félix , EPELBOIN Loïc 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background and objectives: Subjective nonspecific symptoms can persist after well-treated Lyme disease (LD) (known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome). On the other hand, a link between borreliosis andso-called chronic Lyme disease (CLD) has never been demonstrated, while approximately80% of patients with suspected LD suffer from another disease. However, these patients are truly suffering and wonder for an explanation for their pain. The aim of this study was to focus for the first time onthe care pathway of patients assessed for a suspected LD in French Guiana.
Methods: We performed a qualitative study with semiconducted interviews. All patients assessed for a suspicion of LD at the Hospital of Cayenne could be included, regardless of whether the diagnosis was confirmed.
Results: Nine patients were interviewed. Four major themes were highlighted after analysis: a long pathway to a diagnosis, an opposition between patients and the healthcare system, a lonely medical journey, and a negative impact of the disease on quality of life.
Self-diagnosed CLD is still a challenging reason forconsultation, supported by the over mediatization of LD and an opposition with the healthcare system. This opposition is highlighted in French Guiana, where no LD is described to date and whereaccess to healthcare is different as in mainland France.
Conclusion: Patients with nonspecific symptoms attributed to LD are truly suffering and are asking for a listening ear. An empathic but rigorous approach is needed to manage these patients, to find a possible differential diagnosis and to improve patient care.
Urbanization Impact on Groundwater Quality of Selected Rural and Urban Areas in Ondo State, Nigeria Using Water Quality Index
Authors: Ojo Joy Toluwani , Ojo Ochuko Mary , Olabanji Taiwo Oreoluwa , Taiwo Rebecca 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Groundwater is the primary source of water in Ondo state, Nigeria, the study area for the research. However, there has been a rising concern in recent times with regard to the contamination of this important water source as a result of urbanization. This study quantified thirteen physicochemical parameters (Turbidity, Conductivity, pH, Mg2+ Hardness, Ca2+ Hardness, Total hardness, Alkalinity, Chloride, Nitrate, Sulphate, Phosphate, TDS and TSS) in ten groundwater samples collected from dug wells in urban and rural study areas and compared them with the WHO drinking water standards. The comparison reveals that 30.8% of the parameters had levels above the WHO standard limits in the study areas, while 69.2% were within the recommended limits. Water Quality Index (WQI) computations were also carried out which revealed that 60% of samples from the urban study area were of good quality and 40% were poor, while in the rural, 80% of the samples were good and the remaining 20% were poor. Based on the statistical and WQI results, groundwater in the urban study area is generally of lower quality than that of the rural. Possible factors influencing this include surface sealing, seepage of domestic and industrial effluents into aquifers and over-exploitation of groundwater, which characterize urbanized areas. The study thus recommends regular monitoring of groundwater quality, integration of effective systems for safe disposal of sewage and strategic city planning of urbanized zones to maximize runoffs for groundwater recharge to improve groundwater quality.
Patient-reported use of pancreatic enzyme replacement treatment (PERT) in pancreatic cancer in New Zealand and Australia: cross-sectional survey study
Authors: Landers Amanda , DipHomeSci Helen Brown , Ruheili Juhaina Al , Russell Kylie , McKenzie Clare , Agar Meera R , Yenson Vanessa , Clarke Kate , Windsor John 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigated pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy(PERT) use in people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in New Zealand (NZ) and Australia (AU).

Methods

A cross-sectional survey study was conducted using a mixed-media campaign to recruit people with pancreatic cancer and collect information about current PERT use. The questionnaire gathered data on participant demographics, awareness of PERT, prescribing practices and efficacy of enzyme replacement.

Results

Over 300 people with pancreatic cancer were recruited, 135 from New Zealand and 199 from Australia. Every region, state and territory was represented except for the West Coast (NZ) and the Northern Territory (AU), the lowest populated areas in both countries. In New Zealand, 60% of participants had heard about PERT, compared to 69.3% in Australia. Dosing regimens were inconsistent in both countries, with 18% and 27% of participants being prescribed PERT, considered best practice in New Zealand and Australia, respectively. Before PERT commencement, 70% of participants experienced symptoms of malabsorption, with all symptoms improving after therapy was established. The majority of participants were compliant with their medication.

Conclusion

PERT use in pancreatic cancer in New Zealand and Australia was highly variable and not compliant with international guidelines where PERT is recommended as standard therapy. Enzyme replacement is effective for improving the symptoms of malabsorption in patients with pancreatic cancer. Clinician education may be needed to help improve the use of PERT in people with pancreatic cancer.
CircRNA HIPK3 facilitates the metastasis and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma through regulation of miR-381-3p-YAP axis
Authors: Liang Qizhi , Wang Junlong , Pei Yuchen , Yu Xi , Liu Qi , Lan Tian , Chen Wei 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Over the past few years, an increasing amount of research has uncovered the noteworthy contribution of circRNAs to the onset and advancement of tumors. Nevertheless, the complete comprehension of the molecular mechanisms and roles of circHIPK3 in hepatocellular carcinoma remains elusive. The study revealed a notable increase in the expression of circHIPK3 in hepatocellular carcinoma tissue when compared to the surrounding non-cancerous tissue. Moreover, we noticed that the suppression of circHIPK3 significantly impeded the metastasis and migration capabilities of cell lines associated with hepatocellular carcinoma. Crucially, we validated that circHIPK3 acts as a miR-381-3p sponge, alleviating its suppression on YAP and consequently triggering the activation of the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway, resulting in the advancement of hepatocellular carcinoma. The identification of this finding could potentially offer novel targets for the diagnosis and management of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Iodine-Mediated Cyclization Unveils a Serene Path to 2-Thioxo-2,3- Dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one Derivatives through the Harmonious Union of 2-Aminobenzyl Alcohol and Isothiocyanates
Authors: Sayahi Mohammad Hosein , Sepahdar Asma , Yadollahi Mahtab , Shamkhani Fatemeh , Mahdavi Mohammad , Bahadorikhalili Saeed 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In this paper, a novel and facile method is reported for the synthesis of 2-thioxoquinazolinone. For the synthesis of the products, a reaction is introduced based on the molecular iodine catalyzed reaction of 2-aminobenzyl alcohol and isothiocyanates in DMSO. The reaction is simple and the products are obtained in good to excellent yields. FT-IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra were used for the exact characterization of all the products.
Same crisis, different effect? Dropout intention at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, among medical, social science, and computer science students
Authors: Apolinarski Beate , Becker Karsten , Ehrhardt Marie-Christin , Afshar Kambiz 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
During the first COVID-19 lockdown, universities were forced to implement digital teaching within a very short timeframe. This transition was more difficult for programs of study characterised by a less flexible teaching structure and a high proportion of practical units (e.g., medicine). The present study investigated how pandemic-related changes in university education affected students’ dropout intention, comparing medical and non-medical students.
Methods
Data from two German cross-sectional studies conducted in 2016 and 2020 were analyzed with a focus on medical, social science, and computer science students. OLS regression models were used to predict dropout intention before the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 243) and during the first lockdown (n = 846). An Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition was calculated to explain subject-related differences in dropout intention.
Results
Dropout intention increased in all three student groups from 2016 to 2020, with medical students displaying the most moderate increase. During the first lockdown, greater time flexibility due to the digital teaching and greater ability to follow course content were associated with lower dropout intention. Contrary to social science and computer science students, medical students showed no association between dropout intention and overburden, but a high association between dropout intention and academic and social integration with peers.
Conclusions
Some degree of digital or hybrid teaching should be maintained, as the increased time flexibility it affords students is associated with lower dropout intention. However, on-campus teaching remains important for ensuring social exchange between students and conveying practical skills, which cannot be fully taught digitally.
Accessible Authentication Methods for People with Diverse Cognitive Abilities
Authors: Campi Alessia Michela Di , Luccio Flaminia L. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The technological world offers a plethora of resources that could be potentially engaging for users with diverse cognitive abilities. However, access to these resources is often secured by authentication mechanisms that can pose accessibility barriers. To comprehend how these mechanisms could be better designed to enhance accessibility, we conducted a literature review and subsequently conducted a study, gathering empirical data through online questionnaires administered to 34 users with diverse cognitive abilities. Our investigation and analysis focused on their experiences with various authentication methods, aiming to identify the challenges they commonly encounter.
This paper's primary contribution lies in presenting evidence that many conventional authentication approaches lack accessibility. Additionally, we advocate for the adoption of biometric authentication systems as a promising direction, emerging as the most accessible solution based on our study results. Furthermore, drawing insights from existing works, we extracted and synthesized a set of guidelines that we believe IT experts should consider when developing an accessible authentication system. We validated these guidelines through our questionnaire, emphasizing which ones our user group deems most relevant.
Factors influencing inappropriate management of upper respiratory infections in general practice
Authors: Charton Léa , Séverac François , Hansmann Yves , Chambe Juliette 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) are common in general practice, and inappropriate antibiotic prescribing remains a major concern that contributes to antimicrobial resistance. This prospective study aims to examine the factors influencing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for URIs in general practice.
Methods
The study was conducted during the winter of 2017 by 15 general practice trainees in Alsace, France, in collaboration with 25 general practitioners. Data from random general practice consultations were collected, and specific grids were used for URI-related consultations.
Results
Out of the 807 consultations, 173 were related to URIs. Antibiotics were prescribed in 35% of cases, and management was deemed appropriate in 75% of cases. Amoxicillin was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic. Certain infections, such as sinusitis and bronchitis, were more likely to result in inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions. Factors influencing inappropriate management included a light clinical examination compared to systematic clinical examination (OR 4.83, 95% CI: [1.55–15.08], p = 0.007), perceiving the patient as "at risk" (OR 7.05, 95% CI [2.55–19.50], p < 0.001), repeated consultations for the same reason (OR 4.13, 95% CI [1.51–11.27], p = 0.006), and diagnostic uncertainty (OR 4.99, 95% CI [1.40–17.71, p = 0.013). Diagnosis explanation decrease the risk of inappropriate management (OR 0.41, 95% CI [0.17–0.99], p = 0.047]. Physicians who received visits from pharmaceutical industry representatives were more likely to improperly prescribe antibiotics (OR 4.59, 95% CI [1.51–13.95].
Conclusions
While inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for URIs remains significant, this study highlights the complexity of the clinical reasoning underlying this practice. The study identifies modifiable factors, including conducting a thorough clinical examination, patient explanation, and independence from pharmaceutical promotion. It also highlights the critical role of managing diagnostic uncertainty. Rapid diagnostic tests and antibiotic prescription software help to reduce uncertainty, but it is equally important to learn to work with uncertainty in daily practice. These findings remain valid in the post-COVID period and call for ongoing medical education and public health policies aimed at promoting prudent antibiotic use in general practice.
RETRACTED: Suppressed ZNF816 expression enhance keratinocyte growth and reduce apoptosis by activating the AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Yin Xueli , Yuan Ying , Ni Shuangying , Dai Yueyang , Zhang Shengquan , Zhu Zhengwei 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
An Integrated Subacute Stroke Ward within a Community Hospital Increases Rehabilitation Efficiency and Reduces Healthcare Expenditure
Authors: Tay San San , Goh Teck Kheng Edward , Tun Mon Hnin , Neo Edmund Jin Rui , Lee Onn Kei Angel 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Stroke is a leading cause of hospitalisation, disability, and death in Singapore. The healthcare system’s rehabilitative care model has seen ongoing evolution in response to changing patient needs and healthcare financing demands. Changi General Hospital (CGH) and St. Andrew’s Community Hospital (SACH) collaborated on an integrated subacute stroke ward (SSW) in 2019 to optimise the transfer of stroke patients to the subacute rehabilitation setting.
Objective
To evaluate the outcomes of the integrated SSW.
Methods
This was a retrospective study. Anonymised data was used to evaluate functional, financial, and length-of-stay (LOS) outcomes.
Results
There were 71 patients in the control group (historical cohort) and 226 patients in the SSW cohort. Both groups were demographically, medically, and functionally similar except for a higher proportion of lacunar infarcts (LACI) in the SSW group. Although functional scores by Modified Barthel Index (MBI) were similar on discharge, there was a total LOS fell significantly (20 days) for the SSW group, with significant improvements in median rehabilitation efficiency (19.6 vs 10.9) but not median rehabilitation effectiveness (31.0 vs 34.8). Subgroup analysis revealed no impact from the disproportionate number of LACIs. Gross bill size, when corrected for inflation, was significantly lower across the combined hospitalisation ($31,270 vs $40,005).
Conclusions
This collaboration achieved savings in healthcare expenditure and LOS without compromising functional outcomes. The community hospital is a potent bridge for care transition and integrated services such as the SSW can optimise the rehabilitation journey for patients with stroke. Innovation in care provision can help to address the ever-changing challenges of healthcare.
Optimizing Land Use and Tsunami Risk Mitigation Through Vertical Housing Development in Tsunami-prone Areas, Case Study: Banda Aceh City
Authors: Soviana Widya , Syamsidik Syamsidik , Munirwansyah Munirwansyah , Achmad Ashfa 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The development of housing for communities in tsunami-prone areas in the city of Banda Aceh is experiencing significant progress. The majority of the constructed residences adhere to one-story and two-story house models. However, housing designed for single families requires larger land areas compared to apartment options, even though it can only accommodate a limited number of family members. Consequently, the availability of land for housing development is becoming increasingly constrained. Furthermore, single-family homes located in tsunami disaster risk zones are vulnerable to the impacts generated by such events. The development of housing models in regions with potential tsunami risks aims to minimize land utilization while still maintaining community well-being. Therefore, government policies are necessary to direct the development of vertically-conceptualized housing models as alternative dwellings for communities in tsunami-prone areas. These vertical housing models also serve as evacuation facilities during tsunami disasters, with the hope of safeguarding lives and reducing larger-scale losses in the future.