bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Shallow gas seeps in the Golfo Dulce, South Pacific of Costa Rica: geological, physicochemical, and biological characterization
Authors: Salas Carolina , Alvarado Juan José , Solano Juan Carlos Azofeifa , García Cindy Fernández , Castillo Rita Vargas 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Methane is a greenhouse gas with a heat absorption capacity 25 times greater than CO2, potentially playing a significant role at the atmospheric level. Thus there is a growing interest about studying the diversity and ecology of habitats that are important contributors of this gas to the atmosphere. This research aims to carry out a geological, physicochemical, and biological description of a superficial gas seepage in the tropical waters of the Golfo Dulce in Costa Rica. To study this environment underwater visual censuses of fish and bottom cover were conducted, along with collection of water samples for nutrient analysis, and gas to determine the composition of emissions. In addition, rock samples were collected to determine the geological origin and the associated cryptofauna. The seeps are composed of 49.5% methane and the rock that makes up the platform is sandstone from the Charco Azul Group. The bottom cover is dominated by sand (20%), hydrozoans (18%), and 12% of the «other» category. A total of 18 species of fish were found, and wrasses (Labridae) were the dominant group. Regarding cryptofauna, a total of 93 taxa were recorded. This study presents a new report of the ghost shrimp Biffarius for the Eastern Tropical Pacific. This ecosystem presents unique features because it is a shallow, highly diverse place, with a structure of the biological community different from what it is known for the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and the region. Knowing the above, it is recommended to establish conservation strategies.
Ultrathin Skin-Conformable Electrodes with High Water Vapor Permeability and Stretchability Composed of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Networks Assembled on Elastomeric Films
Authors: Fujie Toshinori , Horii Tatsuhiro , Yamashita Kai , Ito Marimo , Okada Kei 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We report on conductive ultrathin films with stretchability and water vapor permeability for skin-conformable bioelectrodes. The films are fabricated by combining conductive fibrous networks of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) (SBS) nanosheets (i.e., SWCNT-SBS nanosheets). The increase in the number of SWCNT coatings raises not only the thickness but also the density of SWCNT bundles. The SBS nanosheet coated with three layers of SWCNTs (i.e., SWCNT 3rd-SBS nanosheet) shows comparable sheet resistance to the SBS nanosheet coated with poly(3,4-ethylenedioxithiophene) doped with poly(4-styrenesulfonate acid) (PEDOT:PSS) containing 5 wt% of butylene glycol (i.e., PEDOT:PSS/BG5-SBS nanosheets) but exhibits a significantly lower elastic modulus and larger elongation at break. Furthermore, the calculated water vapor transmission ratio of the 210 nm-thick SBS nanosheet (268,172 g m-2 (2 h)-1) is higher than that of the filter paper (6345 g m-2 (2 h)-1). The SWCNT 3rd-SBS nanosheet attached to model skin shows a high tolerance to bending and artificial sweat with different pH (i.e., the electrical resistance changes ~1.1 times). Finally, the SWCNT 3rd-SBS nanosheet is applied to detect the surface electromyogram from a subject’s forearm, displaying a similar signal-to-noise ratio as the PEDOT:PSS/BG5-SBS nanosheet.
Dose Stasis Impact Venous Thrombosis via Hypercoagulability? Evidence from Multivariable Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Wiggins Kerri L. , Xiong Ying , Smith Nicholas L. , Damrauer Scott M. , Larsson Susanna C. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background We conducted a Mendelian randomization study to explore the associations of physical activity and sedentary behavior with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and coagulation factors and to test whether related coagulation factors mediate the associations for VTE.
Methods Genetic variants used as instrumental variables for six physical activity and two sedentary behavior phenotypes were selected from two genome-wide association studies. Summary-level data on VTE and coagulation factors were obtained from a genome-wide association meta-analysis (81,190 cases), the CHARGE consortium (25,897-120,246 individuals), and the deCODE project (35,559 individuals).
Results Genetically predicted sedentary behaviors were associated with an increased risk of VTE. Per standard deviation increase in genetically predicted television watching and leisure screen time, the odds ratio of VTE was 1.23 (95% confidence interval 1.12-1.34, P = 9.54×10-6) and 1.14 (95% confidence interval 1.05-1.23, P = 0.001), respectively. Similarly, genetically predicted prolonged sedentary time was associated with higher levels of six studied coagulation factors. The associations of genetically predicted sedentary behaviors with VTE were slightly attenuated after adjustment for genetically predicted plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, tissue plasminogen activator, or von Willebrand factor. It was estimated that these three coagulation factors mediated respectively 4%, 17%, and 6% of the association between sedentary behavior and VTE. Genetically predicted physical activity was not associated with VTE or any coagulation factor.
Conclusion This study supports a causal association between sedentary behaviors and risk of VTE. The association appears only partly mediated by hypercoagulability.
Proximal femoral locking plate combined with cannulated screws and Kirschner wires in the treatment of femoral neck combined with ipsilateral femoral head and intertrochanteric fractures：A case report
Authors: Yu Xiang , Li Yuzhi , Lu Haijian , Liu Binli 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

This article presents a unique case of a complex hip fracture involving the ipsilateral femoral neck, trochanter, and femoral head, accompanied by hip dislocation. Currently, there is no established standard treatment method for this specific type of fracture. Therefore, it is crucial to consider factors such as the patient's age, fracture type, and degree of displacement comprehensively. In this study, we opted for a treatment approach combining the use of a proximal femoral locking plate, cannulated screws, and Kirschner wires. As a result, we successfully achieved satisfactory treatment outcomes.
Clinical longevity of obturators in patients with jaw defects; a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zierden Karina , Koch Carolin , Wöstmann Bernd , Rehmann Peter 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objectives
The primary objective of the current retrospective clinical study was to determine the survival time of obturators while analyzing possible influencing factors.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective clinical cohort study analysed the influence of various clinical factors on the survival probability of obturators and their follow-up measures using Kaplan-Meier estimate.
Results
76 patients with a total of 115 obturators were included in the study (47 men and 29 women, mean age 58.1 ± 18.1 years). The mean observation time was 3.0 ± 4.5 years (maximum 26.3 years). 40.9% (47) of all obturators observed had to be replaced. The survival rate after 5 years was 79.5% for telescopic-crown-retained tooth-supported obturators, 86.9% for telescopic-crown-retained implant-supported obturators, 58.8% for removable full denture obturators, 22.1% for clasp retained obturators and 0.0% for splints. Type of attachment, attendance in a regular follow-up and defect cause showed a significant influence on the survival of the obturators (p < .05).
Conclusions
The findings obtained in this observation support the recommendation of use of implant-supported obturators. Telescopic-crown attachments, either tooth or implant-supported seem to be favorable in terms of their survival times. Attendance in a strict follow-up program seems to have major influence on the longevity of the obturators.
Clinical Relevance:
The use of implant-supported obturators to cover permanent oral and maxillofacial defects can be highly recommended. Also, the use of telescopic-crown attachments seems to be favorable in terms of their survival times. Clasp retained obturators and surgical splints should be used primarily as temporary restorations due to their lower survival times.
Site-specific glycoproteomic analysis identifies decreasing TMX3 associated with breast cancer tumorigenesis via Notch signaling pathway
Authors: Qiu Dandan , Zhang Shuo , Ma Feixia , Chen Chunyan , Ju Penglei 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Numerous studies have demonstrated that protein glycosylation participated in cancer progression. However, the site-specific glycoproteomic analysis and potential targets of breast cancer (BC) are largely unknown. In this study, the intact glycopeptides of BC cells were enriched and investigated by applying mass spectrometry-based glycoproteomic strategies, followed by the widespread mapping of site-speific glycan structures via StrucGP. Cell viability, colony formation, migration assays and in vivo tumorigenesis were performed to assess the biological functions of unique glycoprotein TMX3. Glycoproteomic analysis revealed that glycoproteins with core fucosylated and sialylated glycan structures may be extremely associated with focal adhesion, ECM-receptor interaction, cell proliferation, migration, and notch signaling. Meanwhile, we found that ITGA2, ITGA3, ITGAV, ITGB1, NT5E, PLAUR, BTD, P4HTM, TMX3, SUMF1, MBTPS1, MAN2B2, GNPTG, CD40, and PLAT may have considerable predictive advantages in BC. Among them, decreased TMX3 suggested poor medical ending in BC patients. Notably, TMX3 was significantly down-regulated in BC cell lines and function assays showed that TMX3 overexpression inhibited BC cell proliferation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers both in vitro and in vivo by repressing Jagged 1/Notch1 pathway. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that TMX3 might function as an oncogene to promote BC progression by activating Jagged 1/Notch1 pathway.
Valorization of lignocellulosic agave residues via pyrolysis and its use as adsorbent for methylene blue removal
Authors: THOMAS HABILA YUSUF , Cavalcante José Demétrio Nery , Padilha Carlos Eduardo de Araujo , Sales Aldo Torres , Santos Everaldo Silvino dos , Gasparin Fabiano Perin , Ries Lúcia Allebrandt da Silva , Dutra Emmanuel Damilano , Menezes Rômulo Simões Cezar 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The economic exploitation of sisal (Agave sisalana) fibers leads to the generation of underutilized waste. Therefore, technologies must be developed to mitigate the environmental impacts caused by inadequate waste disposal and ensure more income from sisal exploration. The present study investigated the potential of agave residues in producing biochar with high adsorbent capacity via slow pyrolysis. Hybrid Itaporanga, Hybrid Bahia, and Mutant-1 hybrid agave varieties were used as precursors and methylene blue (MB) dye was used as a solute. In general, agave residues presented similar contents of lignin (12.1-13.2%) and ash (10.3-13.9%), while the greatest differences were recorded in the values of holocellulose (31.4%-42.4%) and extractives (23.2%-33.4%). The increase in temperature favored an increase in the surface area and volume of micropores in the biochar; however, the adsorption capacity of MB dye was reduced. The pseudo-second-order models effectively adjusted the adsorption kinetics. The Hybrid Itaporanga biochar obtained at 400 °C outperformed the other biochar, presenting static (80 mg.g-1) and dynamic (180 mg.g-1) adsorption values. Thus, thermochemical valorization of agave residue is attractive to obtain a cheap and environmentally friendly adsorbent.
Performance Evaluation of Truenat Mtb and Truenat Mtb-rif Dx Assays in Comparison to Gene Xpert Mtb/rif Ultra for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Uganda
Authors: Ssengooba Willy , Katamba Achilles , Sserubiri James , Semugenze Derrick , Nyombi Abdunoor , Byaruhanga Raymond , Turyahabwe Stavia , Joloba Moses 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
The World Health Organization endorsed Truenat MTB rapid molecular assay in 2020 and recommended additional in-country evaluation studies before uptake. We evaluated the accuracy and operational feasibility of Truenat MTB assay (Truenat) in comparison with GeneXpert Ultra and culture.
Methods
In a cross-sectional study of 250 presumptive TB patients, participants were requested to provide a sputum sample on the day of their visit to the clinic. The sputum sample was homogenized and a portion was tested using GeneXpert Ultra as per the routine standard procedure and the other portion was tested using Truenat assay at the clinic laboratory. The second sample portion was processed for Concentrated Fluorescent smear Microscopy (CFM), LJ, and MGIT cultures. Truenat sensitivity and specificity were compared to GeneXpert Ultra and culture. Test performance characteristics were also collected and summarized as proportions and percentages.
Results
Of the 250 participants recruited in the study, the sensitivity and specificity of Truenat was n/N (%, 95%CI); 66/82 (80.5, 70.2–88.4) and 156/159 (98.1, 94.5–99.6) when compared with Ultra, 50/64 (89.3, 66.0-87.4) and 166/180 (92.2, 87.2–95.6) when compared with LJ, 58/71 (81.7,70.7–89.8) and 131/138 (94.9, 89.8–97.9) when compared to MGIT culture and 59/73 (80.8, 69.9–89.1) and 159/169 (94.1,89.3–97.1) when compared to LJ and/or MGIT culture. The sensitivity of Truenat was lower, 14/23 (60.9, 40.6–82.8) among smear-negative compared to 45/50 (90.0, 78.1–96.6) among smear-positive participants but not different by HIV status. There were no special training needs especially among laboratory personnel with previous GeneXpert /molecular test experience, 19/242 (7.8%) error/invalid, and 17,4% uninterpretable/indeterminate results mainly for rifampicin resistance determination.
Conclusion
Among presumptive TB patients in Uganda, the Truenat assay has high sensitivity and specificity. The Truenat assay has acceptable operational feasibility attributes when compared with the GeneXpert Assay.
Impact of a mass campaign on the evolution of the fourth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in the Central African Republic
Authors: RAFAÏ Clotaire Donatien , Somse Pierre Somse , Nambei Wilfrid Sylvain , Lango-Yaya Ernest , Belizaire Marie-Roseline Darnycka , Vickos Ulrich , Komas Narcisse Patrice , Senzongo Oscar , Heredeidona Luc Salva , Kotemossoua Ulrich Jeffrey , Senekian Rabbi Mermoz , Pounguiza Simon , Kaleb Jephté Estimé , Mossoro-Kpinde Christian-Diamant , Faou Alain Le , Longo Jean De Dieu , Ngbale Norbert Richard , Sepou Abdoulaye , Mbopi-Keou François-Xavier , Gresenguet Gérard , Koffi Boniface 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objective : In a context of increasing cases despite vaccination campaigns, a survey was conducted in the Bangui population in January 17 to 26, 2022 to evaluate the strains of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) circulating in a healthy population by taking nasopharyngeal samples in 2,554 randomly selected volunteers.
Antigen detection was performed systematically and RT-PCR was done on the positive samples.
Thirty samples were found RT-PCR positive (1.2%) and sent for viral genome sequencing. Twenty eight SARS-Cov-2 strains belong to Omicron type and solely 2 to Delta type.
Thus, infection were uncommon in the tested population but the presence of Omicron and Delta types make fear than vaccination will not be efficient to fight against the virus and newly designed vaccine should be implemented to better protect the population who is at risk of infection and re-infection by these variants.
High Risk Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis in Children: The role of salvage in improving the outcome. A single center experience.
Authors: Sedky Mohamed Sedky , Hamoda Asmaa , Taha Hala , Zaky Iman , Hassanain Omayma , ElHaddad Alaa 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background: In pediatric multi-system high risk organs (RO+) Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), failing 1st line treatment has the highest mortality. Hereby we aim to present the outcome of salvage whether due to disease progression (DP) at end of induction or afterwards reactivation (REA). Sixty-seven RO+ LCH patients, treated between mid-2007 and end 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. They were subjected to the LCH III protocol era, having 1st line intermediate dose methotrexate induction (ID MTX) but without salvage by 2-Cda based regimen (2-CdABR) and that of LCH IV protocol without ID MTX but with 2-CdABR salvage.
Results: Twenty-two patients showed DP. Of them 9 received 2-CdABR where 5 patients survived in better status. All the remaining 13 not receiving 2-CdABR died. Otherwise, 20 patients showed REA (RO+ mode n=12). Out of those 8 patients receiving 2-CdABR for REA RO+ mode, only one survived in better status. The overall survival (OS) of those undergoing DP was 27% CI 14-54 versus REA 67% CI 49-93 p 0.004. OS of DP with 2-CdABR was 56% CI=31-97.7 versus without 8 % CI 2-51, p<0.001. While OS of REA with 2-CdABR was 38% CI=13-100 versus without 74 % CI 53-100 p value 0.7.
Conclusion: 2-CdABR rescued DP RO+LCH in relation to regimen without. Its impact on REA remains controversial in relation to other salvage regimen.
The impact of COVID-19 on health service utilization in sub-Saharan Africa – a scoping review
Authors: Tannor Elliot Koranteng , Quentin Wilm , Busse Reinhard , Opoku Daniel , Ofori Emmanuel , Gyan Kwadwo Faka , Aikins Minas , Hutton-Mensah Kojo , Opare-Addo Priscilla , Amuasi John 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Introduction
The Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19) pandemic has undoubtedly exposed weaknesses in health systems, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite comparatively low rates of COVID-19 admissions and recorded deaths in SSA, the pandemic still had a significant impact on health service utilization (HSU). The aim of this scoping review is to synthesize the available evidence on HSU in SSA during the COVID-19 pandemic focusing on changes in HSU generally and amongst particular patient groups studied.
Methods
The Scoping review was guided by the methodological framework for conducting scoping reviews developed by Arskey and O’Malley. We identified relevant studies through a search of PubMed(MEDLINE), Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. We then provided a general descriptive overview of the extracted data focusing on the types of studies, patient groups and change in HSU.
Results
We identified 262 studies reporting on HSU in 39 countries in SSA. The median study duration was 364.5[IQR:89 - 730] days. Studies were mainly quantitative 192(73.3%) and retrospective 117(44.7%). The majority were multiple centre studies 163(62.2%), hospital-based 205 (78.2%) and in urban settings 121(46.2%). Median number of participants was 8329[IQR:103-5848] involving 62.7% females. Communicable diseases were the most studied disease category in 92(35.1%) and mainly among out-patients 92(34.2%). Change in HSU was reported in 249(95.0%) of studies with 221(84.4%) of studies reporting a decrease in HSU. The median decrease in HSU was 35.6% [IQR: 19.0-55.8] and median increase was 16.2% [IQR: 9.1-31.9]. HSU was mostly reported among maternal and child health patients 58(22.1%) and people living with Human immunodeficiency virus 32(12.2%). The patient groups with the highest percentage decrease and increase in HSU were cardiovascular diseases 68.0%[IQR:16.7-71.1] and surgical cases 38.3%[IQR 24.0-52.5] respectively.
Conclusion
HSU was generally reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic among different patient groups in SSA.
The longitudinal volumetric and shape changes of subcortical nuclei in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Yang Wenyi , Bai Xueqin , Guan Xiaojun , Zhou Cheng , Guo Tao , Wu Jingjing , Xu Xiaojun , Zhang Minming , Zhang Baorong , Pu Jiali , Tian Jun 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective Brain structural changes in Parkinson's disease (PD) are progressive throughout the disease course. Changes in surface morphology with disease progression remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the volumetric and shape changes of the subcortical nuclei during disease progression and explore their association with clinical symptoms.Methods Thirty-four patients and 32 healthy controls were enrolled. The global volume and shape of the subcortical nuclei were compared between patients and controls at baseline. The volume and shape changes of the subcortical nuclei were also explored between baseline and two years of follow-up. Association analysis was performed between the volume of subcortical structures and clinical symptoms.Results In patients with PD, there were significantly atrophied areas in the left pallidum and left putamen, while in healthy controls, the right putamen was dilated compared to baseline. The local morphology of the left pallidum in patients was correlated with Mini Mental State Examination scores. The left putamen shape variation was negatively correlated with changes in Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale PART III scores.Conclusion Local morphological atrophy of the putamen and pallidum is an important pathophysiological change in the development of PD, and is associated with motor symptoms and cognitive status in patients with PD.
Phenotypic expression and outcomes in patients with the Arg301Gln GLA variant in Anderson-Fabry disease
Authors: Blanco Rocío , Rico Yolanda , Ameijeiras Alvaro Hermida , Abdullah Israa , Kolja Lau , Rubio Jorge Alvarez , Frau Elena Fortuny , Monzonís Amparo Martínez , Nowak Albina , Nordbeck Peter , Burgos Calos Veras , Llinares Jaume Pons , Martínez Fiama Caimi , Rovira Teresa Bosch , Cervera Marta Alamar , Pizarro Virginia Ruiz , Juan Laura Torres , Heine-Suñer Damian , Rossi Emiliano , Vera Tomas Ripoll 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction: The Arg301Gln variant in theGLAgene has been poorly described in the literature. The few reports demonstrate different patterns of presentation of both classical and non-classical Anderson–Fabry (FD) disease, which develops later in life and with less organ damage. Theaimof this study was to analyse the penetrance, clinical phenotype, and biochemical profile of an international cohort of patients carrying the Arg301Gln genetic variant in theGLAgene.Methods: This is a retrospective observational multicentre study of patients carrying the Arg301Gln variant in theGLAgene associated with FD disease.Results: Forty-nine Arg301GlnGLAcarriers, 41% male, were analysed. The penetrance was 63% in the entire cohort and 1.5 times higher in men. The mean age of onset of symptoms was 41 years; men presented symptoms earlier and with a shorter delay to diagnosis compared to women. The classic presentation affected only 20% of the cohort, with no differences between sexes. During follow-up, almost 20% of the patients presented some type of non-fatal cardiovascular event (stroke, need for dialysis, heart failure, and arrhythmias requiring intracardiac devices), predominantly affecting men. Only a few women had normal levels of α-galactosidase A enzyme activity; residual levels were the most common finding. The incidence of combined events, including all causes of death, was 33%, and the cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality was 9%.Conclusions: Patients carrying the Arg301Gln variant in theGLAgene have a high penetrance of cardiorenal involvement with the clinical onset of the disease in middle age, and only a very low proportion showed the classical clinical presentation of FD. As in other X-linked diseases, males were more affected by severe cardiovascular and renal events. This genotype–phenotype correlation could be useful from a practical clinical point of view and for future decision-making.