bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Soluble CD27 is an intrathecal biomarker of T-cell-mediated lesion activity in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cencioni Maria T. , Magliozzi Roberta , Palmisano Ilaria , Suwan Keittisak , Mensi Antonella , Fuentes-Font Laura , Villar Luisa M. , Fernández-Velasco José I. , Migallón Noelia Villarrubia , Costa-Frossard Lucienne , Monreal Enric , Ali Rehiana , Romozzi Marina , Mazarakis Nicholas , Reynolds Richard , Nicholas Richard , Muraro Paolo A. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Objective: Soluble CD27 is a promising cerebrospinal fluid inflammatory biomarker in multiple sclerosis. In this study, we investigate relevant immune and neuro-pathological features of soluble CD27 in multiple sclerosis.
Methods: Protein levels of soluble CD27 were correlated to inflammatory cell subpopulations and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines detected in cerebrospinal fluid of 137 patients with multiple sclerosis and 47 patients with inflammatory and non-inflammatory neurological disease from three independent cohorts. Production of soluble CD27 was investigated in cell cultures of activated T and B cells and CD27-knockout T cells. In a study including matched cerebrospinal fluid and post-mortem brain tissues of patients with multiple sclerosis and control cases, levels of soluble CD27 were correlated with perivascular and meningeal infiltrates and with neuropathological features.
Results: We demonstrate that soluble CD27 favours the differentiation of interferon-g-producing T cells and is released through an exocytosis mechanism activated by TCR engagement. We also show that the levels of soluble CD27 correlate with the representation of inflammatory T cell subsets in the CSF of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and with the magnitude of perivascular and meningeal CD27+ CD4+ and CD8+ T cell infiltrates in post-mortem central nervous system tissue, defining a subgroup of patients with extensive active inflammatory lesions.
Interpretation: our results demonstrate that soluble CD27 is a biomarker of disease activity, potentially informative for personalized treatment and monitoring of treatment outcomes.
Flood risk management for policymaking and governance: Assessing the impact on critical water infrastructures
Authors: Couñago Estefania , Garcia-Pintos Adela , Caballero Gloria , Leon-Mateos Fernando 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Policymakers need to make decisions to increase the resilience of critical water infrastructures. Some of these are already affected by increased flooding because of climate change, and infrastructures will be increasingly affected, as predictions are grim. In this context, policymakers do not have sufficient quantitative tools to perform cost-benefit analyses of the various mitigation and adaptation decisions. For this reason, a more complete tool than those proposed so far is necessary, one that makes it possible to estimate the direct economic losses caused by floods of critical water infrastructures and the indirect economic losses caused by the interruption of water infrastructures’ services to industry.
Structural characterization and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of EPS from Pediococcus pentosaceus 4412 in LPS-induced mice model
Authors: Angelin J , Kavitha M 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Exopolysaccharides are postbiotics secreted by lactic acid bacteria that contribute to bountiful health-promoting properties. In the present investigation, exopolysaccharide (EPS 4412) extracted and purified from Pediococcus pentosaceus 4412 was subjected to structural characterization such as scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis which depicted the EPS 4412 as a porous fibrous microstructure, irregular and smooth surface, semi-crystalline, with thermal stability at 252.86°C. Anti-biofilm activity of EPS 4412 exhibited the maximum adhesion inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus (76.07 ± 2.03%), Bacillus cereus (71.86 ± 0.89%), Salmonella enterica (50.5 ± 0.57%), and Shigella flexneri (38.84 ± 0.38%) at 4mg/mL concentration. At 10 mg/mL concentration, the EPS 4412 displayed moderate DPPH radical scavenging activity of 55.62 ± 0.85% and a reducing power of 1.54 ± 0.03 at OD700 nm. In vivo, the anti-inflammatory activity of EPS 4412 in LPS-induced C57BL/6 mice revealed elevated body weights, thymus, and spleen indices, increased glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities, and reduced malondialdehyde levels. The EPS 4412 had substantially upregulated anti-inflammatory IL-10 and downregulated the pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, and TNF-α to alleviate the inflammatory process. Histopathological examination of the intestine, liver, and spleen tissues disclosed the protective effect of EPS 4412. Thus, EPS from Ped. pentosaceus 4412 has the potential to regulate inflammatory responses, alleviate oxidative stress, and protect organs. EPS 4412 could be employed as a natural food additive and anti-inflammatory drug in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Therapeutic efficacy of VV116 for follicular lymphoma complicated with COVID-19: A case report
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhou Haibo , Kong Xianglong , Wen Rong , Jiang Dixuan , Jiang Rong , Mo Guiyan , Zhou Zhiguo 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Multiple studies have demonstrated prolonged shedding of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and immunodeficiency in patients with hematological malignancies.
Case presentation:
We described two follicular lymphoma (FL) cases of sustained SARS-CoV-2 infection. The first patient received the last cycle of chemotherapy and developed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) two weeks later. The second case has completed the first-line chemotherapy regimen, but the laboratory examinations revealed a low immune function. The polymerase chain reaction assay for the SARS-CoV-2 tested negative for both cases many times, and the coronavirus pneumonia was finally diagnosed with genetic sequencing. Their general conditions gradually worsened following multiple antiviral treatments and supportive care. As an oral antiviral drug, deuremidevir hydrobromide tablet (VV116) was administered to both cases, their body temperature quickly returned to normal, and both cases were discharged with improved condition.
Conclusions
The above findings suggested that immunocompromised patients with persistent COVID-19 shedding should be identified with combined methods as soon as possible, and VV116 could be an alternative treatment for such patient populations.
Analysis of Helical Antenna for Wireless Application at UHF
Authors: Parkhe Anish Anil , Shilaskar Swati N. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
A helix antenna serves as an electromagnetic emitter that transmits signals in the shape of a coiled thread. It possesses two primary operational modes: normal and axial. In the axial mode, radiation peaks along the helix's axis, creating a near-circular concentration of electromagnetic waves. This paper delves into the intricacies of designing a spiral antenna optimized for operation at a 3 GHz reverberative frequency. It exhibits indirect polarization and is ideally suited for wireless communications, facilitating the transmission and reception of VHF waves, especially for ionospheric propagation. The versatility of this antenna extends to various applications, including radio astronomy, space telemetry, satellites, and space-based communication systems. The proposed antenna design showcases a directional radiation pattern with a notable gain of 13.8 dB. Future research will explore its adaptability for deployment in aquatic environments, expanding its utility in scenarios that demand reliable wireless connectivity beneath the surface. This innovation holds great promise for enhancing communication capabilities across a range of fields and environments.
Exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles increases the risk of arterial thrombosis: Involvement of calcium-dependent platelet aggregation and procoagulant activity
Authors: Bian Yiying , Jin Qiushuo , He Jinrui , Ngo Thien , Bae OK-Nam , Pi Jingbo , Chung Han Young , Xu Yuanyuan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) are widely used in cosmetics, coatings, medicine, paper and space industries. Humans are inevitably exposure to TiO2NPs, however, the relevant health risk has not been completely assessed, the potential of inducing arterial thrombosis (AT) in particular.
Results: Here, we demonstrated that TiO2NPs induced aggregation and activation of human platelets (hPLTs) freshly isolated from health volunteers. TiO2NP exposure increased the levels of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa and P-selectin, which were aggravated by providing physiology-mimicking conditions, including introduction of thrombin, collagen, and high shear stress. In addition, TiO2NP exposure triggered the procoagulant activity of hPLTs through phosphatidylserine exposure and microvesicles generation. Interestingly, intracellular calcium levels in hPLTs were increased upon TiO2NP exposure, which were crucial in TiO2NP-induced hPLT activation. Moreover, we found that TiO2NP exposure resulted in a decrease in mouse platelet (mPLT) counts. By using an AT-initiating mouse model, we also observed an irregular blood flow, as well as an increase in AT and deposition of mPLTs.
Conclusions: Together, our study provides evidence for an ignored health risk caused by TiO2NPs, specifically TiO2NP exposure augments PLT activity via calcium-dependent mechanism and thus increases the risk of AT.
Association between women’s empowerment and diarrhea in children under five years in Bangladesh: a nationally representative study
Authors: Khanam Shimlin Jahan , Alam Md Badsha , Khan Md Nuruzzaman 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Objective
The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between women's empowerment and childhood diarrhea in Bangladesh using a nationally representative dataset.
Methods
We conducted a comprehensive analysis using data from 7,243 mother-child dyads extracted from the 2017/18 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey. Women's empowerment was assessed using multiple dimensions, including decision-making autonomy, involvement in household purchases, and visits to neighbouring homes, and considered as the major explanatory variable. Childhood diarrhea was the outcome variable. The association of the outcome variable with the explanatory variable was determined using multilevel logistic regression models adjusted for potential covariates.
Results
The analysis revealed a 5% prevalence of childhood diarrhea in Bangladesh. While no statistically significant association was found between women's empowerment and childhood diarrhea, an interesting trend emerged. Children of less empowered mothers showed a lower likelihood of experiencing diarrhea. Conversely, specific demographic factors were associated with an increased likelihood of childhood diarrhea, including higher maternal education, older child age, higher wealth quintiles, and residence in the Dhaka and Khulna divisions.
Conclusion
These findings suggest the importance of maternal care in reducing childhood diarrhea in Bangladesh, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions and policies to address the distinct challenges faced by various demographic groups. Further research is essential to better understand the underlying mechanisms and implications for public health strategies and policies in the context of Bangladesh.
Clustering validation by distribution hypothesis learning
Authors: Baya Ariel E. , Larese Monica 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We present a new clustering validation technique named: "Hypothesis Learning". We build our method on three concepts: 1) clustering cohesion, 2) clustering dispersion and, 3) quality of hypothesis. The first two notions focus on individual clusters quality. We measure them using a classifier estimating the tightness and separation as a likelihood. The third notion evaluates the complexity of learning the clustering partition. Similar to cohesion and dispersion, we get a likelihood value. Next, we aggregate these three measures to find a single index reporting clustering quality. Our work's core is the use of learning algorithms as means to estimate these three indexes. In our experiments, we tested "Hypothesis Learning" with a fast classifier, K Nearest Neighbour (KNN). However, in the discussion of the method, we explore other classifiers like CART and Random Forest. Furthermore, we provide a novel approach from previous validation methods mixing supervised, unsupervised algorithms and stability concepts. For instance, our method is based on using clusters probabilities to calculate likelihoods. Also, we show how to regularize a classifier to handle overfit, thus making the use of stability optional. Finally, we present experimental results comparing our approach with a similar method and many other well-known clustering indexes.
Harnessing ResNet50 and SENet for Enhanced Ankle Fracture Identification
Authors: Ying Jichong , Wang Hua , Liu Jianlei , Yu Tianming , Huang Dichao 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Ankle fractures are prevalent injuries that necessitate precise diagnostic tools. Traditional diagnostic methods have limitations that can be addressed using machine learning techniques, with the potential to improve accuracy and expedite diagnoses.
Methods
We trained various deep learning architectures, notably the Adapted ResNet50 with SENet capabilities, to identify ankle fractures using a curated dataset of radiographic images. Model performance was evaluated using common metrics like accuracy, precision, and recall. Additionally, Grad-CAM visualizations were employed to interpret model decisions.
Results
The Adapted ResNet50 with SENet capabilities consistently outperformed other models, achieving an accuracy of 93%, AUC of 95%, and recall of 92%. Grad-CAM visualizations provided insights into areas of the radiographs that the model deemed significant in its decisions.
Conclusions
The Adapted ResNet50 model enhanced with SENet capabilities demonstrated superior performance in detecting ankle fractures, offering a promising tool to complement traditional diagnostic methods. However, continuous refinement and expert validation are essential to ensure optimal application in clinical settings.
Differential DNA methylation landscape of miRNAs genes in mice liver fibrosis
Authors: Li Deming , Yang Wentong , Pang Jiaojiao , Yu Guoying 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
The patients with chronic liver disease were found nearly all to have liver fibrosis, which is characteristic by excess accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. ECM accumulation can destroy normal liver function and architecture except protect from infection and injury. miRNA own regulation was involved in DNA methylation change. The purpose of this study is to detect DNA methylation landscape of miRNAs genes in mice liver fibrosis tissues.
Methods
10–12 weeks male mice were injected CCl4 from abdominal cavity to induced liver fibrosis. 850K BeadChips were used to examine DNA methylation change in whole genome. The methylation change of 16 CpG dinucleotides located in promoter regions of 4 miRNA genes were detected by bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (BSP) to verify chip data accuracy, and these 4 miRNA genes’ expressions were detected by RT-qPCR methods.
Results
There are 769 differential methylation sites (DMS) in total between fibrotic liver tissue and normal mice liver tissue, which were related with 148 different miRNA genes. Chips array data were confirmed by bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (R = 0.953; P < 0.01). GO analysis of the target genes of 2 miRNA revealed that protein binding, cytoplasm and chromatin binding activity were commonly enriched; KEGG pathway enrichment analysis displayed TGF-beta signaling pathways were commonly enriched.
Conclusion
The DNA of 148 miRNA genes was found to have methylation change in liver fibrosis tissue. These discoveries in miRNA genes are beneficial for future miRNA function research in liver fibrosis.
Risk assessment of inhalation exposure to Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans and Dioxin-like PCBs in Ambient Air, Thailand
Authors: Boonyatumanond Ruchaya , Rungsiriworapong Methawaj , Pornrattanapimolchai Chompoonut , Sujinapram Titima , Kuna-ake Viwatana , Boonmark Patcharaporn , Thimsen Minta , Poonnotok Anupong 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In order to assess the situation of air quality of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and Dioxin-like PCBs (Dl-PCBs) with a total of 29 isomers and their risk assessment were estimated from two hundred ambient air samples in Thailand since 2018–2022. A monitoring program was carried out in Mega-city, industrial area, landfill sites, haze pollution areas, industrial estate areas and National parks that would represent a clean area. The total concentrations of PCDD/Fs and Dioxin-like PCBs in Bangkok area ranged from 0.011–0.17 pg-TEQ/m3 and average total concentration was 0.059 pg-TEQ/m3. The calculation of Daily Inhalation Dose (DID) at an old industrial estate (Bangpoo) for adults weighing about 55–80 kg ranged from 0.12–0.19 pg-TEQ kg− 1day− 1 and the DID in children with ages less than 6 years old ranged from 0.060–0.090 pg-TEQ .kg− 1day− 1. The concentrations of PCDD/Fs detected at Bangpoo industrial estate was about ten times higher than Bangkok area. The estimated level of Cancer Risk (CR) or Carcinogenic Risk at Bangpoo industrial estate area and Bangkok area were 2.5 E-04 and 2.6 E-06 respectively. The data were analysed T-test as appropriate and statistical significance (two-sample assuming equal and unequal variances) was defined as p < 0.05.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Mentha spicata L. Aqueous Extract and Evaluation of Its Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Anticancer Activities
Authors: Abdullateef Abdulrahman , Unegbu Immaculata Amarachi , Halilu Emmanuel Mshelia 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Mentha spicata L. (Lamiaceae) has been used in traditional medicine to cure indigestion, stomach aches, intestinal weakness, and diarrhea. This research was designed to synthesize silver nanoparticles from an aqueous extract of M. spicata and to investigate its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. The was extracted by maceration with water and silver nanoparticle MAgNPs were prepared using 5 mM of AgNO3 solution. The DPPH free radical and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays were conducted to determine the antioxidant activity. The antibacterial activity was determined using the agar disk diffusion method on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi, and Escherichia coli. Anticancer studies were carried out, to determine the cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effect of MAgNPs. The phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of phenolic compounds (flavonoids and tannins). The aqueous extract and MAgNPs scavenged the DPPH free radical, with IC50 values of 12.62 µg/mL and 1.556ug/mL respectively, while the IC50 of the aqueous extract and MAgNPs against H2O2 were 1.695 mg/mL and 5.865 mg/mL. The bacterial strains were susceptible to the extract and MAgNPs with a zone of inhibition ranging between 4–11 mm. The zeta analysis of MAgNPs reveals a size of 70.08 nm and a potential of -13.17 mV. The SEM revealed spherical shape particles. The XRD showed the crystalline structure of MAgNPs. The FTIR revealed the N-H stretching frequency in the MAgNPs indicating the stretching of secondary amine. There was an in vitro cytotoxic effect on the viability of MDA MB 231 cancer cells with a significant difference among means (p < 0.05). The MTT Assay showed an anti-proliferative effect against the cells. The MAgNPs were found to be potent against MDA MB 231 breast cancer cells with IC50 values of 11.67 µg/mL and 31.57 µg/mL obtained after 24 hours and 48 hours respectively. Therefore, the ability of the extract to scavenge the free radicals and inhibit the growth of the bacteria may be due to its chemical constituents.
Measuring sustainability of opioid agonist therapy programmes in the context of transition from Global Fund support
Authors: Stuikyte Raminta , Varentsov Ivan , Dvoriak Sergii , Cook Catherine 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: Programmatic and financial sustainability of health responses dependent on donor funding has risen as a major concern. In the HIV field in particular, it generated a number of instruments and assessments on sustainability and processes related to donor transition planning. The authors aimed to develop an instrument specific to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) programmes as they were addressed only marginally by the HIV-specific assessments.
Methods: The development of the OAT sustainability instrument used desk review of existing HIV sustainability concepts and tools, an International Advisory Board, and piloting to validate the instrument.
Results: The new OAT sustainability instrument is comprised of the three parts: the conceptual framework, methodological guidelines and a practical implementation tool for assessing the degree of OAT sustainability at the country level. It measures sustainability in the three broad areas for sustainability measuring – Policy & Governance; Finance & Resources; and Services. The selection of indicators and their composites for the three sustainability areas extensively used the United Nations and World Health Organization’s guidance on health system building blocks, on care and prevention among people using opioids and for opioid dependence, and the definition of access to health framed by the United Nations Convent on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The instrument’s methodological guidelines require the engagement of a national consultant to conduct desk review, key informant interviews and focus groups for measuring discrete milestones and adding qualitative information for interpretation of the data, progress and opportunities. The guidelines advise engaging a country-specific multi-stakeholder advisory group for planning, validation and follow up of the assessment. The pilot of the instrument in 3 countries in 2020 validated it and required minor adjustments in the instrument. By mid-2023, the instrument has been successfully applied in 5 countries.
Conclusions: The developed instrument enables a comprehensive review of the resilience of OAT programs and their ability to scale up and to inform a roadmap for improved sustainability. While developed in the EECA context, it has been reviewed by a global advisory panel and could be easily adapted outside this regional context.