bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Calcifediol boosts the efficacy of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (COVISHIELD) vaccine via upregulation of key genes associated with memory T cell responses
Authors: SACHDEVA NARESH , Saroha Himanshu , Bhat Swati , Das Liza , Dutta Pinaki , Holick Michael , Marwaha Raman 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (COVISHIELD) vaccine has emerged as a pivotal tool in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. In our previous study eligible subjects were supplemented with calcifediol, a direct precursor to the biologically active form of vitamin D, calcitriol with an objective to enhance the immunogenicity of the COVISHIELD vaccine. Herein we investigated the effects of calcifediol supplementation on gene expression profiles in individuals who received the COVISHIELD vaccine. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from vaccinated individuals with and without calcifediol supplementation at baseline, 3 and 6 months, and the gene expression profiles were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing. The results revealed distinct patterns of gene expression associated with calcifediol supplementation, suggesting potential molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of calcifediol in improving the efficacy of COVISHIELD vaccine via augmentation of T cell memory responses, innate immune mechanisms such as NOD signaling pathway, JAK/STAT and TGF beta pathways. Calcifediol supplementation in vaccinated individuals also downregulated the pathways related to the Coronavirus disease. Taken together, our findings provide valuable insights into the interplay between vitamin D receptor (VDR) signaling and vaccine-induced immune responses and offer another approach in improving vaccination induced antiviral responses.
Optimizing Superelastic Shape Memory Alloy Fibers (SMAF) for Enhancing Pullout Performance in Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC)
Authors: Umar Muhammad , Qian Hui , Khan M. Nasir Ayaz , Chen Guolin , Shi Yifei , Manan Aneel 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This experimental study investigates the effect of superelastic shape memory alloy fibers (SMAF) on the pullout performance of Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC). Various diameters, forms, and surface treatments of SMAF were examined, including Linear shape (LS-SMAF), indented hook shape (HIS-SMAF), and indented shape (IS-SMAF) with diameters of 0.8 and 1.0 mm. sandpaper polishing technique was used for surface treatment. A constant water-to-cement ratio of 0.60 was used to fabricate ECC. Single-fiber pullout tests, monotonic and cyclic, were conducted on ECC mixtures incorporating various polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) content (1.5% to 2%). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis was performed to study the internal structure of ECC. Results showed that treated IS-SMAF demonstrated superior pullout performance. Additionally, IHS-SMAF outperformed LS-SMAF, whereas ECC with higher PVA content showed excellent pullout performance. This study concludes the significance of fiber characteristics and ECC mix composition in enhancing single-fiber pullout performance.
Risk factors for PTSD symptoms following PICU admission for childhood septic shock
Authors: Burcher Georgina Corbet , Lancaster Rebecca , McCutcheon Robert , O'Dea Lisa , Cooper Mehrengise , Nadel Simon , Garralda Elena 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective
Paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission represents a traumatic event for many children. Follow-up studies have found post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rates of 10-30%, with a particular prevalence following admission for sepsis. Dysregulated inflammatory responses are associated with PTSD. Sepsis involves a marked inflammatory response but the relationship between this and PTSD have not been clearly established. In this study we investigate associations between the inflammatory response, psychosocial risk factors, and PTSD symptoms following PICU admission for septic shock.
Setting
Children aged >3 years, discharged from PICU following admission for septic shock between 2010 and 2017.
Design
The study was a retrospective analysis of PICU-specific PTSD symptoms reported by parents at any time since discharge via the Trauma and Behavior health screen. Demographics, pre-morbid health characteristics, and exposure to other traumatic events were assessed. Clinical characteristics and blood test results at admission and at 48 hours were recorded from clinical records. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate relationships between PTSD symptom scores and predictor variables.
Results
Data for 65 participants (48% male, median assessment age 8.0 years) was available. Median time since admission was 5.1 years. 30.8% children scored at risk of PTSD at any time since discharge. Symptoms were significantly associated with acute CRP rise (p=0.03), other trauma exposures (p=0.01), and female gender (p=0.04).
Conclusion
PTSD symptoms in children who have survived septic shock are prevalent.
These findings support a possible contribution of acute inflammatory changes, cumulative traumatic exposure, and female gender in post-PICU PTSD development.
Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of yellow-flowered crocuses to infer alternative sources of saffron metabolites
Authors: Nemati Zahra , Shahandashti Seyyedeh‌ Sanam Kazemi , Garibay-Hernández Adriana , Mock Hans-Peter , Schmidt Maximilian H-W , Usadel Björn , Blattner Frank.R 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:
The increasing demand for saffron metabolites in various commercial industries, including medicine, food, cosmetics, and dyeing, is driven by the discovery of their diverse applications. Saffron, derived from Crocus sativusstigmas, is the most expensive spice, and there is a need to explore additional sources to meet global consumption demands. In this study, we focused on yellow-flowering crocuses and examined their tepals to identify saffron-like compounds.
Results:
Through metabolomic and transcriptomic approaches, our investigation provides valuable insights into the biosynthesis of compounds in yellow-tepal crocuses that are similar to those found in saffron. The results of our study support the potential use of yellow-tepal crocuses as a source of various crocins (crocetin glycosylated derivatives) and flavonoids.
Conclusions:
Our findings suggest that yellow-tepal crocuses have the potential to serve as a viable excessive source of some saffron metabolites. The identification of crocins and flavonoids in these crocuses highlights their suitability for meeting the demands of various industries that utilize saffron compounds. Further exploration and utilization of yellow-tepal crocuses could contribute to addressing the growing global demand for saffron-related products.
A randomized trial of the impact of symptom monitoring using an electronic patient-reported outcome app on health-related quality of life in postmenopausal breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy
Authors: Okuyama Hiromi , Takada Fuka , Taira Naruto , Nakamura Seigo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) monitoring is a useful communication tool for cancer patients and healthcare providers. In this study, we examined the impact of symptom monitoring using an ePRO app on quality of life (QoL) in postmenopausal breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy.
Methods
The free app “Welby My Carte ONC” was used in the study. Patients with breast cancer starting adjuvant endocrine therapy were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to ePRO monitoring (ONC) and control groups. The ONC group reported five symptoms extracted from the Patient-Reported Outcome-Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (PRO-CTCAE) (insomnia, joint pain, headache, anxiety, and hot flashes) weekly for 3 months through the app. Reported symptoms were shared with medical personnel. When serious symptoms were reported, these personnel ascertained the patient's health status and provided advice over the phone. The primary endpoint was QoL measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B) at 3 months from enrollment. Differences between groups were tested using analysis of covariance.
Results
The study included 125 subjects with mean age of 64 years in the ONC group (n = 61) and 63 years in the control group (n = 64). In the ONC group, the response rate to PRO-CTCAE was about 70% or higher until week 10. The item missing rate was 0. The ONC group reported more symptoms related to joint pain and insomnia. The difference in FACT-B total score between the groups was − 1.55 (95% confidence interval: -5.91, 2.81), indicating no significant difference.
Conclusions
Symptom monitoring using ePRO early after initiation of adjuvant endocrine therapy after surgery did not improve QoL of breast cancer patients.
Ethnobotanical Study of Homegarden Plants Species Diversity and Uses in Goba District Bale Zone of Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Ofga Benti , Hussien Mohammedaman 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A readily accessible agricultural plant production system that is close to a home is a home garden. The purpose of this study was to record how different plant species are used in household gardens and how they are managed in the Goba District. Information was gathered from informants chosen on the advice of local development agents and elders in the community. Seventy-one home garden owners were chosen for the detailed study and data collecting on gardens. Out of the fifteen kebeles in the Goba District, the five kebeles were chosen at random. Observation, semi-structured interviews, preference rating, direct matrix ranking, and paired comparison were the methods used to gather ethno botanical data. Data analysis techniques included the use of ethno botanical data collecting, descriptive statistical approaches including densities, frequencies, relative frequencies, relative densities, Shannon, and Wiener index for species diversity. Thirty-one families comprising 67 plant species in all were gathered and identified. Of the 67 plant species that were gathered, 37 (or 55%) were herbaceous, 16 (or 24%) were tree species, 19% (or shrubby), and 2% were climbers. The majority of homes have a home garden, indicating that farmers value gardening and that it affects both household food security and revenue generating. Concerned institutions should promote the involvement of the local population and the growth of awareness through instruction or training on the sustainable use and management of plant resources.
Comparison between Mitomycin-C and Ologen Implants in the Treatment of Primary Open Glaucoma by Subscleral Trabeculectomy
Authors: Mahmoud Hatem , Ebrahim Anas M. , Farag Mohamed Hassanein , Okasha Mohamed Gaber , Elsayed Ahmed A. , Yusef Nehad Mohammed , Sakr Ahmed Mohammed , Gabbar Abdel Ghany Ali El , Ali Mahmoud abdelhalim Ali , Elsayed Ahmed N. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Trabeculectomy was first performed in 1968 and is currently the greatest public glaucoma management method in the world (Cairns 1968). However, scarring and wound healing can lead to bleb fibrosis and drainage fistula occlusion, which can ultimately result in bleb failure.
Methods
A randomized approaching comparative interventional research was directed at 45 eyes of 40 participants 25 males and 15 females with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), Patients were distributed into three groups, Group A (included 15 eyes) of 13 participants who went through SST with adjuvant intraoperative usage of 0.2 mg/ml MMC, Group B (included 15 eyes) of 14 participants who underwent SST with a collagen matrix implant during surgery. Group C (included 15 eyes) of 13 participants who underwent SST with both a collagen matrix implant and MMC during surgery.
Results
The study showed no statistically significant variances among the groups concerning age, sex, eye laterality, glaucoma type, preoperative IOP, or the quantity of topical or systemic antiglaucoma medications prescribed. Systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors were used by six study participants. All of the eyes of the patients underwent straightforward trabeculectomy procedures, and the study group did not experience any implant-related intraoperative issues.
Conclusion
Based on these findings, we hypothesize that the Ologen implant could be a secure and reliable substitute for MMC in terms of enhancing the long-term efficacy of trabeculectomy surgery while avoiding the negative consequences connected to the application of supplementary therapy, such as MMC.
Seeing fast and slow: The influence of music-induced affective states and individual sensory sensitivity on visual processing speed
Authors: Lapomarda Gaia , Deodato Michele , Melcher David 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
There is a speed-accuracy trade-off in perception. The ability to quickly extract sensory information is critical for survival, while extended processing can improve our accuracy. It has been suggested that emotions can change our style of processing, but their influence on processing speed is not yet clear. In three experiments, combining online and laboratory studies with different emotion induction procedures, we investigated the influence of both affective states, manipulated with music, and individual traits in sensory-processing sensitivity on the ability to rapidly segregate two visual flashes. Across studies, the musical manipulations pushed participants towards either rapid or slow processing. Individual variations in sensory-processing sensitivity modulated these effects. Our findings demonstrate that mood, influenced by music, can shift the balance between fast and slow visual processing, altering our perception. These results also emphasize the interaction of individual traits in sensory processing and affective states.
Spatial-temporal characteristics and implications of rural resilience in mountainous counties in China with the lowest wealth gap under the guidance of the concept of "production-living-ecology": An empirical study based on 26 counties
Authors: Cao Yirong , Zheng Xueyong , Tong Lei , Su Fei , Zou Yi , Zhang Yuanyuan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
China has achieved a comprehensive victory in poverty alleviation in 2021, with all districts (counties) across the country successfully lifted out of poverty, thereby providing a valuable model for rural poverty reduction worldwide. Understanding China's experience in rural development holds significant implications for promoting poverty reduction efforts in other countries globally. This paper constructs a theoretical framework to analyze rural resilience based on the distinctive concept of production-living-ecology that characterizes rural construction in China. Furthermore, it examines 26 mountainous counties within Chinese provinces exhibiting minimal disparities between urban and rural wealth as case studies. The vertical and horizontal Scatter Degree method is employed to assess the level of rural resilience within these counties, while spatial autocorrelation and obstacle degree models are utilized to identify spatial heterogeneity and key influencing factors affecting their resilience. The findings are as follows: firstly, the overall resilience level of the villages in the case area is higher. Secondly, there exists a spatial differentiation pattern of "higher in the northern region and lower in the southern region" regarding rural resilience among 26 counties in the case area, with a significant spatial agglomeration effect. Thirdly, the main obstacles influencing rural resilience level in the case area include proportion of non-agricultural employment, scale of agricultural land, mobile phone penetration rate, and residents' living standards.
Enhancing SNV identification in whole-genome sequencing data through the incorporation of known population genetic variants into the minimap2 index
Authors: Guguchkin Egor , Kasianov Artem , Belenikin Maksim , Zobkova Gaukhar , Kosova Ekaterina , Makeev Vsevolod , Karpulevich Evgeny 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Motivation
Alignment of reads to a reference genome sequence is one of the key steps in the analysis of human NGS whole-genome sequencing data. The quality of the subsequent steps of the analysis, such as the results of clinical interpretation of genetic variants or the results of a genome-wide association study (GWAS), depends on the correct identification of the position of the read as a result of its alignment. The amount of human NGS whole-genome sequencing data is constantly growing. There are a number of human genome sequencing projects worldwide that have resulted in the creation of large-scale databases of genetic variants of sequenced human genomes. Such information about known genetic variants can be used to improve the quality of alignment at the read alignment stage when analysing sequencing data obtained for a new individual, for example, by creating a genomic graph. While existing methods for aligning reads to a linear reference genome have high alignment speed, methods for aligning reads to a genomic graph have greater accuracy in variable regions of the genome. The development of a read alignment method that takes into account known genetic variants in the linear reference sequence index allows combining the advantages of both sets of methods.
Results
In this paper we present the minimap2_index_modifier tool, which allows the construction of a modified index of a reference genome using known SNVs and indels of a given human population. The use of the modified minimap2 index improves variant calling quality without modifying the bioinformatics pipeline and without significant additional computational overhead. Using the FDA Precision Truth Challenge V2 benchmark data (for HG002 short-read data aligned to the GRCh38 linear reference (GCA_000001405.15) with parameters k = 27 and w = 14) it was demonstrated that the number of false negative genetic variants decreased by more than 2000, and the number of false positives decreased by more than 200.
First Record of Butis humeralis (Gobiiformes: Butidae) from the West Coast of India with special emphasis to its Early Developmental Stages
Authors: Shameena M. K. , Kumar Ratheesh , Sr V. L. , Sajeela K. A. , Kaladharan P. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Dark sleeper or olive flathead-gudgeon, Butis humeralis (Valenciennes 1837), was discovered for the first time from the west coast of India. Till date, there have only been reports of this species from India's east coast. A cluster of sparsely distributed eggs of B. humeralis were observed in the gritted glass panel submerged for biofouling studies in aquaculture cage sites near Kalamukku fishing harbour in the Cochin Estuary. The egg mass covered an area of 61.80 cm2 with an average abundance of 124.51 ± 27.25 eggs/cm2. Molecular characterization of the eggs was done to affirm the species identification. The eggs of B. humeralis were, adhesive, pyriform-shaped and translucent with brownish yellow colour with a size measurement of 0.41 ± 0.01 mm and 0.36 ± 0.01 mm diameters along long and short axis, respectively. The eggs were reared up to 144 hph (hour post-hatch) subsequently. The newly hatched larvae of B. humeralis were slender and translucent with 1.01 ± 0.037 mm total length (TL) with a yolk sac of size 0.624 ± 0.05 mm and 0.415 ± 0.05 mm along longitudinal and horizontal axis, respectively. After 72 hph, fully pigmented eyes were observed whereas a well-developed mouth with distinct upper and lower jaw appeared on the fifth day of hatching. The TL of the preflexion larvae after 144 hph ranged between 2.08–2.12 mm. The first report of this lesser-known species from the west coast of India demonstrating the developmental stages signifies the need to evaluate their current ecological and conservation status in the ecosystem.
Bending of concrete slabs reinforced by recycling waste
Authors: ATLAOUI Djamal , MANSOURI Arezki , HASSANI Karim 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This work focuses on the experimental study of mechanical behavior through "3-point bending" tests on concrete slabs reinforced with two types of fibers: metallic fibers (MF) and grids based on polypropylene fibers (PPF). The metallic fibers are sourced from machining waste of steel parts, randomly dispersed within the concrete, while the grids consist of polypropylene fibers. Bending tests are conducted on slabs with dimensions [25x50x7] cm³. Compression tests are also carried out on cylinders with a diameter of Ø160 mm and a height of H320 mm. The fibers are characterized in terms of mechanical strength and pull-out resistance. The concrete composition is determined using the experimental method known as the "Dreux-Gorisse" method. For this study, five contents of metallic fibers (MF) are selected (W = 0.2%, W = 0.4%, W = 0.6%, W = 0.8%, and W = 1%). A control concrete (BT) with a fiber content of 0% (W = 0%) is prepared to serve as a reference. Two variants of polypropylene fibers, small mesh (PPF/SM) and large mesh (PPF/LM), are also included. By comparing and contrasting the results obtained with those of Mohsin Adeel Waris et al [37], it is evident that adding metallic fibers (MF) to concrete at a fiber percentage (W = 0.8%) enhances both strength and stiffness better than adding polypropylene grid fibers, as well as better than the combination of steel and rubber fibers for volumes (Vf = 0.1(SF) + 2% (RF)) [37]. The metallic fibers used restrain cracking due to tilting.
Path to Sustainability Transition: Can the Balanced Combination of Eco-Innovation, Foreign Investments, and Carbon Emissions Pave the Way for Economic Growth and Environmental Harmony?
Authors: Amara Dhekra Ben , Qiao Jiajun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Environmental concerns have steadily caught attention as economic growth has developed more rapidly. Governments see technology revolutions, particularly eco-innovations and green technology transfer through FDI, as a solution to modern economic issues and climate change challenges. However, performing eco-innovation adoption separately from FDI is insufficient to solve environmental dilemmas and achieve economic growth and sustainable development goals. As far as we know, there is scarce knowledge about the spatial perspective and the impact of the combined mechanisms of eco-innovation, FDI, and carbon emissions in developing nations. This paper uses the geographic Durbin model based on spatial panel data to examine the combined effect of eco-innovation, carbon emissions, and FDI effects on economic growth in nine MENA countries from 2000 to 2019. The study results are as follows: (i) Eco-innovation, FDI, and carbon emissions positively and directly impact GDP; (ii) carbon emissions are the most critical driver that impacts economic growth; and (iii) the balanced combination of driving factors of economic growth positively and directly impacts GDP. Therefore, the balanced combination of carbon emissions with eco-innovation and FDI substantially affects economic growth, improves environmental quality, and embarks on a sustainable transition path. Policymakers must make more significant efforts to generate more robust green strategies and dynamic systems to endorse the transition to sustainability.