bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tosyl-carrageenan/alginate composite adsorbent for removal of Pb2+ ions from aqueous solutions
Authors: Awed Mohamed , Mohamed Riham R. , Kamal Kholod H. , Sabaa Magdy W. , Ali Korany A. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe current study effectively designed novel cross-linked tosyl-carrageenan/alginate (Ts-Car/Alg) beads to remove Pb2+ ions from their aqueous solutions. To confirm the structure of the produced matrix, characterization methods such as XRD, SEM, FTIR, and EDX were used. Batch experiments were employed in order to further evaluate the adsorption efficiency of Pb2+ ions. Additionally, various variables, including contact time, solution pH, adsorbent dosage, and initial concentration of Pb2+ ions were investigated using atomic absorption. The results of this study showed that the adsorption equilibrium increased as Pb2+ ions concentration increased at pH = 5.3 after a contact time of 120 min, with 0.3 g of Ts-Car/Alg that having the best adsorption capacity at 74 mg/g. The adsorption progression was further examined using the kinetic and isothermal models. With a correlation coefficient of 0.975, the Freundlich model was thought to better fit Pb2+ ions adsorption from the isotherm investigation. Also, the adsorption kinetics were investigated using a pseudo-second-order model with 1/n ratio of 0.683. This Ts-Car/Alg adsorbent is regarded as an effective candidate to be used for water treatment because the reusability process of produced beads was successfully completed twice, and the adsorbent maintained its ability to remove Pb2+ ions. The prepared Ts-Car/Alg beads are therefore excellent candidates to be used as potent Pb2+ ions adsorbents from their aqueous solutions. The Ts-Car/Alg beads' regeneration and reusability investigation for the removal of heavy metal ions was completed in at least two successful cycles.
Western diet consumption by host vertebrate promotes altered gene expression on Aedes aegypti reducing its lifespan and increasing fertility following blood feeding
Authors: Menezes Alexandre , Peixoto Marilia , Silva Melissa , Costa-Bartuli Emylle , Oliveira Cinara Lima , Walter-Nuno Ana Beatriz , Kistenmacker Nathan da Cruz , Pereira Jessica , Ramos Isabela , Paiva-Silva Gabriela O. , Atella Geórgia C. , Zancan Patricia , Sola-Penna Mauro , Gomes Fabio M. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
The high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in low- and middle-income countries is linked to an increase in Western diet consumption, characterized by a high intake of processed foods, which impacts the levels of blood sugar and lipids, hormones, and cytokines. Hematophagous insect vectors, such as the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti, rely on blood meals for reproduction and development and are therefore exposed to the components of blood plasma. However, the impact of the alteration of blood composition due to malnutrition and metabolic conditions on mosquito biology remains understudied.

Methods
In this study, we investigated the impact of whole-blood alterations resulting from a Western-type diet on the biology of Ae. aegypti. We kept C57Bl6/J mice on a high-fat, high-sucrose (HFHS) diet for 20 weeks and followed biological parameters, including plasma insulin and lipid levels, insulin tolerance, and weight gain, to validate the development of metabolic syndrome. We further allowed Ae. aegypti mosquitoes to feed on mice and tracked how altered host blood composition modulated parameters of vector capacity.

Results
Our findings identified that HFHS-fed mice resulted in reduced mosquito longevity and increased fecundity upon mosquito feeding, which correlated with alteration in the gene expression profile of nutrient sensing and physiological and metabolic markers as studied up to several days after blood ingestion.

Conclusions
Our study provides new insights into the overall effect of alterations of blood components on mosquito biology and its implications for the transmission of infectious diseases in conditions where the frequency of Western diet-induced metabolic syndromes is becoming more frequent. These findings highlight the importance of addressing metabolic health to further understand the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses in endemic areas.

Graphical Abstract
Sex-based disparities in DNA methylation and gene expression in late-gestation mouse placentas
Authors: Legault Lisa-Marie , Breton-Larrivée Mélanie , Langford-Avelar Alexandra , Lemieux Anthony , McGraw Serge 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
The placenta is vital for fetal development and its contributions to various developmental issues, such as pregnancy complications, fetal growth restriction, and maternal exposure, have been extensively studied in mice. The placenta forms mainly from fetal tissue and therefore has the same biological sex as the fetus it supports. Extensive research has delved into the placenta’s involvement in pregnancy complications and future offspring development, with a notable emphasis on exploring sex-specific disparities. However, despite these investigations, sex-based disparities in epigenetic (e.g., DNA methylation) and transcriptomic features of the late-gestation mouse placenta remain largely unknown.

Methods
We collected male and female mouse placentas at late gestation (E18.5, n = 3/sex) and performed next-generation sequencing to identify genome-wide sex differences in transcription and DNA methylation.

Results
Our comparison between male and female revealed 358 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) on autosomes, which were associated with signaling pathways involved in transmembrane transport and the responses to viruses and external stimuli. X chromosome DEGs (n = 39) were associated with different pathways, including those regulating chromatin modification and small GTPase-mediated signal transduction. Differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were more common on the X chromosomes (n = 3756) than on autosomes (n = 1705). Interestingly, while most X chromosome DMRs had higher DNA methylation levels in female placentas and tended to be included in CpG dinucleotide-rich regions, 73% of autosomal DMRs had higher methylation levels in male placentas and were distant from CpG-rich regions. Several DEGs were correlated with DMRs. A subset of the DMRs present in late-stage placentas were already established in mid-gestation (E10.5) placentas (n = 348 DMRs on X chromosome and 19 DMRs on autosomes), while others were acquired later in placental development.

Conclusion
Our study provides comprehensive lists of DEGs and DMRs between male and female that collectively cause profound differences in the DNA methylation and gene expression profiles of late-gestation mouse placentas. Our results demonstrate the importance of incorporating sex-specific analyses into epigenetic and transcription studies to enhance the accuracy and comprehensiveness of their conclusions and help address the significant knowledge gap regarding how sex differences influence placental function.
WRN loss accelerates abnormal adipocyte metabolism in Werner syndrome
Authors: Tian Yuyao , Lautrup Sofie , Law Patrick Wai Nok , Dinh Ngoc-Duy , Fang Evandro Fei , Chan Wai-Yee 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Metabolic dysfunction is one of the main symptoms of Werner syndrome (WS); however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report that loss of WRN accelerates adipogenesis at an early stage both in vitro (stem cells) and in vivo (zebrafish). Moreover, WRN depletion causes a transient upregulation of late-stage of adipocyte-specific genes at an early stage.

Methods
In an in vivo study, we generated wrn−/− mutant zebrafish and performed histological stain and Oil Red O staining to assess the fat metabolism. In an in vitro study, we used RNA-seq and ATAC-seq to profile the transcriptional features and chromatin accessibility in WRN depleted adipocytes. Moreover, we performed ChIP-seq to further study the regulatory mechanisms of metabolic dysfunction in WS.

Results
Our findings show that mechanistically WRN deficiency causes SMARCA5 upregulation. SMARCA5 is crucial in chromatin remodeling and gene regulation. Additionally, rescuing WRN could normalize SMARCA5 expression and adipocyte differentiation. Moreover, we find that nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplementation restores adipocyte metabolism in both stem cells and zebrafish models.

Conclusions
Our findings unravel a new mechanism for the influence of WRN in the early stage of adipogenesis and provide a possible treatment for metabolic dysfunction in WS. These data provide promising insights into potential therapeutics for ageing and ageing-related diseases.
Treatment of critical bleeding events in patients with immune thrombocytopenia: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sirotich Emily , Nazaryan Hasmik , Chowdhury Saifur Rahman , Guyatt Gordon , Agarwal Arnav , Leong Russell , Wen Aaron , Xu Emily , Liu Bonnie , Pallapothu Sushmitha , Rathod Preksha , Kwon Henry Y. , Dookie Jared , Shafiee Amirmohammad , Charness Jay , DiRaimo Jennifer , Paynter Dale , Pruitt Barbara , Strachan Gail , Couban Rachel , Ye Zhikang , Arnold Donald M. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Critical bleeding events in adults and children with ITP are medical emergencies; however, evidence-based treatment protocols are lacking. Due to the severe thrombocytopenia, (typically platelet count less than 20 × 109/L), a critical bleed portends a high risk of death or disability. We plan to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of treatments for critical bleeding in patients with ITP that will inform evidence-based recommendations.

Methods
Literature searches will be conducted in four electronic databases: Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and PubMed. Eligible studies will be randomized controlled trials or observational studies that enrolled patients with ITP describing one or more interventions for the management of critical bleeding. Title and abstract screening, full-text screening, data extraction, and risk of bias evaluation will be conducted independently and in duplicate using Covidence and Excel. Outcomes will be pooled for meta-analysis where appropriate or summarized descriptively. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology will be used to evaluate the certainty of the evidence. Primary outcomes of interest will include frequency of critical bleeds, mortality and bleeding-related mortality, bleeding resolution, platelet count, and disability.

Discussion
Evidence-based treatments for critical bleeding in patients with ITP are needed to improve patient outcomes and standardize care in the emergency setting.

Systematic review registration
CRD42020161206.
Prognostic impact of tumor budding in rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Jinghui , Ma Yongli , Wen Liang , Zhang Guosheng , Huang Chengzhi , Wang Junjiang , Yao Xueqing 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Tumor budding (TB) is a negative prognostic factor in colorectal cancer; however, its prognostic impact following neoadjuvant therapy for patients with rectal cancer remains unclear. This study aims to assess the prognostic impact of TB and the correlation between TB and other pathological features in patients with rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy.

Methods
A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, CNKI, Wanfang, and ClinicalKey databases was conducted for studies on the prognosis of TB in rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy from the inception of the databases to January 2023, and the final literature included was determined using predefined criteria. Quality assessment of the studies included, extraction of general and prognostic information from them, and meta-analyses were carried out progressively.

Results
A total of 11 studies were included, and the results of the meta-analysis showed that high-grade tumor budding (TB-1) increased the risk of poor 5-year disease-free survival (HR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.38–2.22, P < 0.00001), 5-year overall survival (HR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.21–2.59, P = 0.003), local recurrence (OR = 4.15, 95% CI 1.47–11.75, P = 0.007), and distant metastasis (OR = 5.36, 95% CI 2.51–11.44, P < 0.0001) in patients with rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy. TB-1 was significantly associated with poor differentiation and lymphatic, perineural, and venous invasion.

Conclusion
Tumor budding is significantly correlated with unfavorable prognosis and poor pathological characteristics following neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer. We anticipate more high-quality, prospective studies in the future to confirm our findings.

Systematic review registration
PROSPERO CRD42022377564.
Optimal reconstruction methods after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis update
Authors: Zhao Zhou , Li Hancong , Pan Xiangcheng , Shen Chaoyong , Mu Mingchun , Yin Xiaonan , Liao Jing , Cai Zhaolun , Zhang Bo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Distal gastrectomy (DG) is a commonly used surgical procedure for gastric cancer (GC), with three reconstruction methods available: Billroth I, Billroth II, and Roux-en-Y. In 2018, our team published a systematic review to provide guidance for clinical practice on the optimal reconstruction method after DG for GC. However, since then, new evidence from several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has emerged, prompting us to conduct an updated systematic review and network meta-analysis to provide the latest comparative estimates of the efficacy and safety of the three reconstruction methods after DG for GC.

Method
This systematic review and network meta-analysis update followed the PRISMA-P guidelines and will include a search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for RCTs comparing the outcomes of Billroth I, Billroth II, or Roux-en-Y reconstruction after DG for patients with GC. Two independent reviewers will screen the titles and abstracts based on predefined eligibility criteria, and two reviewers will assess the full texts of relevant studies. The Bayesian network meta-analysis will evaluate various outcomes, including quality of life after surgery, anastomotic leakage within 30 days after surgery, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, major postoperative complications within 30 days after surgery, incidence and severity of bile reflux, and loss of body weight from baseline.

Ethics and dissemination
The review does not require ethical approval. The findings of the review will be disseminated through publication in an academic journal, presentations at conferences, and various media outlets.

INPLASY registration number
INPLASY2021100060.
Modifying the walk score based on daily social activities: residential neighborhood in Egypt as a case study
Authors: Mohamed Amr N. , El Mokadem Ashraf , Ali Shimaa M. , Badawy Nancy Mahmoud 
Published: January 2024

AbstractWalkability has been linked to quality of life in many ways. The Walk Score is one of several methodologies aimed at assisting people in evaluating walkability. Despite the validation of this method, the amenity schedule around the day and the occupancy percentage in each amenity are not included in the calculation of the Walk Score, resulting in reduced accuracy. The research aims to improve the Walk Score methodology by inserting the amenity schedule around the day and the occupancy percentage in each amenity in the calculating method of the walk score, as the amenities do not have the same occupancy throughout the day. The research proposes a new method to calculate the Walk Score according to the time and occupancy for each amenity at the residential neighborhood level in Egypt. The research uses Salam New City as a case study to apply the new method to a residential neighborhood using the Urban Modelling Interference (Umi) plugin. Finally, the research proposes the Walk Score Model of Salam New City to calculate the Walk Score around the day. The new Walk Score model helps urban planners improve urban space design and the distribution of amenities.
Blockchain meets machine learning: a survey
Authors: Kayikci Safak , Khoshgoftaar Taghi M. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBlockchain and machine learning are two rapidly growing technologies that are increasingly being used in various industries. Blockchain technology provides a secure and transparent method for recording transactions, while machine learning enables data-driven decision-making by analyzing large amounts of data. In recent years, researchers and practitioners have been exploring the potential benefits of combining these two technologies. In this study, we cover the fundamentals of blockchain and machine learning and then discuss their integrated use in finance, medicine, supply chain, and security, including a literature review and their contribution to the field such as increased security, privacy, and decentralization. Blockchain technology enables secure and transparent decentralized record-keeping, while machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to derive valuable insights. Together, they have the potential to revolutionize industries by enhancing efficiency through automated and trustworthy processes, enabling data-driven decision-making, and strengthening security measures by reducing vulnerabilities and ensuring the integrity of information. However, there are still some important challenges to be handled prior to the common use of blockchain and machine learning such as security issues, strategic planning, information processing, and scalable workflows. Nevertheless, until the difficulties that have been identified are resolved, their full potential will not be achieved.
Disaggregated effect of construction investments on the Saudi economy: a dynamic computable general equilibrium model of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ahmed Irfan , Mehrez Khadija , Socci Claudio , Deriu Stefano , Mathkur Naif M. , Casasr Ian P. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe role of the construction industry in economic growth has been widely discussed in the extant literature, but existing studies have not investigated the disaggregated impact of construction investments on the production and social sectors. This study examines the disaggregated effect of construction investments on the Saudi economy. The study uses a social accounting matrix of Saudi Arabia and constructs a dynamic computable general equilibrium model. The findings reveal that construction investments significantly boosted GDP and aggregate investments in the first two periods; however, the growth declined in the following three periods. This finding underlines the importance of long-term investments in the construction sector and calls for continuous monitoring and updating of the investment policy for sustainable development. This study also presents the disaggregated impact of investments on the value-added by each sector of the economy. The ranking of sectors exhibits that mining and quarry activities underwent a high increase in value-added, second to construction activities. Other economic activities also experienced growth in value-added and some of them changed their ranks within the five years.
Mobile money innovations, income inequality and gender inclusion in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Asongu Simplice A. , Agyemang-Mintah Peter , Nnanna Joseph , Ngoungou Yolande E. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis study assesses the role of mobile money innovations on income inequality and gender inclusion in 42 sub-Saharan African countries from 1980 to 2019 using interactive quantile regressions. It finds that, first, income inequality unconditionally reduces the involvement of women in business and politics. Second, mobile money innovations interact with income inequality to have a positive impact on women in business and politics. Third, the net effects of mobile money innovations on gender inclusion through income inequality are consistently negative. Fourth, as the positive conditional or interactive effects and negative net effects are consistent across the conditional distribution of gender inclusion, thresholds at which mobile money innovations can completely dampen the negative effect of income inequality on gender inclusion are provided. Therefore, policymakers should work toward improving conditions for mobile money innovations. They should also be aware that reducing both income inequality and enhancing mobile money innovations simultaneously leads to more inclusive outcomes in terms of gender inclusion.
Cu(II)-Mediated direct 18F-dehydrofluorination of phosphine oxides in high molar activity
Authors: Tang Xiaoqun , Lv Shengji , Mou Zhaobiao , Liu Xia , Li Zijing 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
The 18F/19F-isotope exchange method employing P(V)-centered prosthetic groups demonstrates advantages in addressing mild one-step aqueous 18F-labeling of peptides and proteins. However, the molar activity (Am) achieved through isotope exchange remains relatively low, unless employing a high initial activity of [18F]F−. To overcome this drawback, our work introduces a novel approach through a Cu-mediated direct 18F-dehydrofluorination of phosphine oxides. This method leverages the straightforward separation of the 18F-labeled product from the phosphine oxide precursors, aiming to primarily increase Am.

Results
Through a 19F-dehydrofluorination efficiency test, Cu(OAc)2 was identified as the optimal oxidative metal salt, exhibiting a remarkable 100% conversion within one hour. Leveraging the straightforward separation of phosphine oxide precursors and phosphinic fluoride products, the Am of an activated ester, [18F]4, sees an impressive nearly 15-fold increase compared to the 18F/19F-isotope exchange, with the same initial activity of [18F]F−. Furthermore, this Cu(II)-mediated 18F-dehydrofluorination approach demonstrates tolerance up to 20% solvent water content, which enables the practical radiosynthesis of 18F-labeled water-soluble molecules under non-drying conditions.

Conclusions
The direct 18F-dehydrofluorination of phosphine oxide prosthetic groups has been successfully accomplished, achieving a high Am via Cu(II)-mediated oxidative addition and reductive elimination.