bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Underwater image enhancement method based on
a cross attention mechanism
Authors: Xu Sunhan , Wang Jinhua , He Ning , Hu Xin , Sun Fengxi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Underwater image enhancement is a technique that improves the quality of underwater images, which makes them clearer and more realistic. However, because of the complexity of underwater environments, underwater image enhancement faces many challenges, such as the variation in underwater optical properties as well as low contrast, low brightness, and color distortion in underwater images. To extract underwater image features more effectively, this paper proposes an underwater image enhancement algorithm called Cross Attention-based Underwater Image Enhancement (CAUIE). The algorithm combines cross attention and dynamic enhancement modules to build a U-Net model. Cross attention uses a self-attention mechanism to capture the local and global information of underwater images, thus enhancing the semantic representation of the images. The dynamic enhancement module, by contrast, dynamically adjusts the enhancement parameters according to different regions of the image to acquire detail information. In addition, this paper introduces a contrastive regularization loss to construct a hybrid loss function for guiding the training and optimization of the model. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the comparison algorithm in both subjective visual and objective evaluation criteria. Moreover, the proposed model obtains PSNR and SSIM results of 34.86 dB and 0.996, respectively, increasing the results of the previous model by 7.97 dB and 0.099, which illustrates that the proposed algorithm can solve the color distortion problem and recover the contrast and clarity of underwater images.
Evidence for Alterations in Lipid Profiles and Biophysical Properties of Lipid Rafts From Spinal Cord in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Diaz Mario , Fabelo Noemi , Martin Virginia , Santos Guido , Ferrer Isidre 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is an age-dependent neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem whose etiopathogenesis remains unclear. Recent studies have linked major neurodegenerative diseases with altered function of multimolecular lipid-protein complexes named lipid rafts. In the present study, we have isolated lipid rafts from the anterior horn of the spinal cords of controls and ALS individuals, and analysed their lipid composition. We found that ALS affects levels of different fatty acids, lipid classes and related ratios and indexes. The most significant changes affected contents of n-9/n-7 monounsaturated fatty acids and arachidonic acid, the main n-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA), which were higher in ALS lipid rafts. Paralleling these findings, ALS lipid rafts lower saturates-to-unsaturates ratio compared to controls. Further, levels of cholesteryl ester (SE) and anionic-to-zwitterionic phospholipids ratio were augmented in ALS lipid rafts, while sulfatides contents were reduced. Further, regression analyses revealed augmented SE esterification to (mono)unsaturated fatty acids in ALS, but to saturates in controls. Overall, these changes indicate that lipid rafts from ALS spinal cord undergo destabilization of the lipid structure, which might impact their biophysical properties, likely leading to more fluid membranes. Indeed, estimations of membrane microviscosity confirmed less viscous membranes in ALS, and well as more mobile yet smaller lipid rafts compared to surrounding membranes. Overall, these results demonstrate that the changes in ALS lipid rafts are unrelated to oxidative stress, but to anomalies in lipid metabolism and/or lipid rafts membrane biogenesis likely occurring in mitochondrial-endoplasmic reticulum- associated membranes.
Synthesis of multifunctional nano-drug with targeted delivery for the synergistic pathway of various inducers on inhibition of breast cancer cell line
Authors: Shafighi Shaghyegh , Zaefizadeh Mohammad , Jaafari Behbood , Alivand Mohammad Reza , Ghorbian Saeed 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background and objective: In recent years, interest has grown in the anti-cancer properties of natural compounds, particularly polyphenols including, Oleuropein, Quercetin, Coumarin (an aromatase inhibitor) and Valproic acid, with fewer side effects. Oleuropein stops the cell cycle in the G2/M phase by inhibiting metalloproteinase and increasing the expression of some caspases. Quercetin induces apoptosis by reducing the activity of the PI3K/Akt/IKK-/NF-B pathway. Valproic acid is an inhibitor of histone deacetylases which has a vital role in preventing the spread and progression of cancer. However, the therapeutic effects of polyphenols have constrained by their poor bioavailability. The goal of this study was creation of a natural magnetic nano-complex that is more bioavailable to examine how oleuropein, quercetin, coumarin, and valproic acid work in concert to limit cell growth.
Methods: In this work, a silicon bridge (sio-N-) was built using nano-magnetic iron and methoxy silane to create a magnetic nano-complex with four plant-derived substances: oleuropein, coumarin, quercetin, and valproic acid. These complexes were then analyzed using a variety of spectroscopic and size measures. Then, using the MTT technique and real-time PCR, the inhibitory impact and expression of apoptotic genes on the MCF7 cell line was assessed.
Results: FT-IR, SEM, TEM, EDX, XRD, DLS, and VSM techniques used to validate the synthesis of the nano-complex. The magnetic nano-complex exhibits a greater level of toxicity than the quadruple compound without nanoparticles, according to the MTT test findings. Moreover, compared to any of the materials or their combinations, the magnetic quadruple nanocomposite dramatically reduced the inhibition of cancer cells. Hoechst staining and flow cytometry cell techniques used to confirm this assumption. The quadruple combination and quadruple nanocomposite of magnetism induced overexpression of p53, bim, and bak and reduced BCL2 expression, according to real-time PCR data. Thus, our results showed that the nano-complex treatment increased the expression level of genes involved in apoptosis by up to two times.
Conclusion: Using plant-derived materials with various properties attached to magnetic nanoparticles can increase their toxicity against breast cancer cells and increase their concentration in the cell. Additionally, by creating a synergistic effect through various molecular pathways, it inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells and causes them to undergo apoptosis.
Hyperpyrexia and skin lesions caused by xylazine: a case report
Authors: Dai ping , Chen Yanqing , Zhang Tongyue , Zhou Zhiqiang , Wen Zixin , Shi Mengdi , Genjiafu Aerbusili , Jian Xiangdong 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: Xylazine belongs to the 1,3-thiazide class and is structurally similar to phenothiazine (1,4-thiazide) and tricyclic antidepressants. Xylazine is pharmacologically similar to clonidine, and was initially used to treat hypertension; however, clinical studies discovered that it had serious inhibitory effects on the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, so it was not approved for use. Xylazine is, however, used in veterinary medicine as a sedative, analgesic, and muscle relaxant. Related poisoning cases worldwide are rare. We, therefore, aimed to present a case of a patient who not only had severe depression symptoms of the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, but also had high fever and was observed skin scars during the treatment of xylazine poisoning.
Case presentation: We outline the course of the poisoning which led to death 4 days later, as well as our treatment. We also discuss the possible causes of death, including infection and illegal drug use.
Conclusions: From this case of xylazine poisoning, in addition to causing skin lesions and dependence, xylazine may also cause hyperthermia, which has not been reported so far in humans. We suggest that the management of narcotic drugs for human use should be strengthened, along with the control of narcotic drugs for animals.
Challenges and opportunities of translating animal research into human trials in Ethiopia
Authors: Abrhaley Askale , Giday Mirutse , Hailu Asrat 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Although the goal of translational research is to bring biomedical knowledge from the laboratory to clinical trial and therapeutic products for improving health, this goal has not been well achieved as often as desired because of many barriers documented in different countries. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the challenges and opportunities of translating animal research into human trials in Ethiopia.
Methods: A descriptive qualitative study, using in-depth interviews, was conducted in which preclinical and clinical trial researchers who have been involved in animal research or clinical trials as principal investigator were involved. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic process.
Results: Six themes were emerged for challenges: lack of financial and human capacity, inadequate infrastructure, operational obstacles and poor research governance, lack of collaboration, lack of reproducibility of results and prolonged ethical and regulatory approval processes. Furthermore, three themes were synthesized for opportunities: growing infrastructure and resources, improved human capacity and better administrative processes and initiatives for collaboration.
Conclusion and recommendations: The study found that the identified characteristics/features are of high importance either to hurdle or enable the practice of translating animal research into human trials. The study suggests that there should be adequate infrastructure and finance, human capacity building, good research governance, improved ethical and regulatory approval process, multidisciplinary collaboration, and incentives and recognition for researchers to overcome the identified challenges and allow translating of animal research into human trials to proceed more efficiently.
Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its association with coffee consumption among female staff of a Medical Center in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Noghabaei Giti , Arab Maliheh , Payami Sara , Ghavami Behnaz , Nouri Behnaz , Parkhideh Roya , Dolatshahi Sina 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Several aspects can affect serum vitamin D concentrations. The present research was proposed to control the frequency of vitamin D deficiency amongst female staff of a medical center in Tehran, and to categorize the risk factors which predisposed them to advanced danger of vitamin D deficiency.
Methods: Six hundred fifty-one female staff of a Medical Center, aged between 20 and 67 years, were registered into this prospective cross-sectional study. Data including age, education, reproductive history and employment records of all the participants was entered in a questionnaire. Their daily consumption of different types of food and beverages was also recorded. Blood serum levels of 25-dihydroxy vitamin D was studied.
Results: We found that 400 out of 651 working staff (61.5%) had vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D level <20 ng/ml), while 46.4% suffered from severe deficiency (serum 25(OH) D < 12 ng/ml). No significant association was found between serum vitamin D levels and their daily dietary consumption of meat, nuts, vegetables, fruit, salad, and tea. It was discovered that coffee consumption had significant association with lower levels of serum vitamin D (P<0.05). Staff`s record of service and use of calcium-D and multivitamin supplements were found to be the factors inversely related to vitamin D deficiency. Each year increase in their duration of employment was associated with a 5% decrease in their risk of developing vitamin D Deficiency (OR = 0.953 (0.913-0.99; p = 0.0264)). Also, use of calcium-D and multivitamin supplements reduced the risk of vitamin D deficiency by 53% (OR = 0.479 (0.266-0.862); p = 0.014), and 52% (OR = 0.482 (0.271-0.856); p = 0.013), respectively.
Conclusion: The study revealed that vitamin D deficiency was highly prevalent among working women of the medical center and was inversely associated with their age, duration of employment, and use of multivitamins and calcium-D supplements. We found that coffee drinking was significantly connected with lower serum vitamin D status in the studied population.
Endoscopic ultrasound miniprobe (EUS) and single balloon enteroscopy: a diagnostic innovative tool for small bowel lesions.
Authors: Cannizzaro Renato , Zoratti Caterina , Realdon Stefano , Maiero Stefania , Pelizzo Paola , Navarria Luca , Crocè Lory 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Although small intestine is the longest tract of the digestive system, small bowel lesions are uncommon. However, when they occur, they represent a major challenge for the Gastroenterologist, since the small intestine is difficult to explore with standard endoscopic techniques. In this short report, we describe our experience using together the ballon-assisted enteroscopy (SBE) with the endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) through EUS miniprobe UM-3Y to investigate small bowel lesions.
Bioactivity of essential oil from Brassica oleraceae var. italic as an Alternative to Traditional Antibiotics
Authors: Vázquez-Quiñones Carlos Ramón , Natividad-Bonifacio Iván , Álvarez-Contreras Ana Karen , Parada-Fabián José Carlos , Hernández-Robles Marcos Francisco , Vázquez-Salinas Carlos , Quiñones-Ramirez Elsa Irma 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Over the past decade, the alarming rise in antibiotic resistance and adverse drug reactions has spurred intense research efforts to uncover innovative antimicrobial agents. In this comprehensive study, our primary goal was to unravel the intricate chemical composition of the essential oil, hexane, alcoholic, and aqueous extracts from Brassica oleraceae var. italica. Subsequently, we embarked on a thorough assessment of their potent antibacterial activity against microorganisms of paramount public health significance. The essential oil, meticulously extracted via hydro-distillation, divulged a fascinating chemical makeup under the scrutinizing gaze of gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Predominantly enriched with oxygenated compounds, notably butane, 1-isothiocyanate, and 4-formyl-1,3(2H) dihydroimidazole-2-thiol, the essential oil exhibited remarkable potential. Both the oil and ethanol extracts unequivocally exhibited potent bactericidal effects against the battery of tested bacteria. In a resounding denouement, we underscore the tremendous promise harbored by the essential oil sourced from the seeds of Brassica oleracea var. italica for the prophylaxis and therapy of pathogen-induced maladies in the labyrinthine world of the food industry.
Effects and mechanism of Kudingcha on obesity based on network pharmacology
Authors: Sui Xiaohui , Liu Jia , Gong Li , Zhang Lei 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Context:
Obesity is the world's most high-profile public health problem. Kudingcha has been used in traditional medicine because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and weight loss properties. Quercetin and kaempferol are the main components rich in Kudingcha that are effective against obesity.
Objective
We used the method of network pharmacology to study the effects of quercetin and kaempferol to HepG2 cells on obesity.
Materials & methods
We obtained 20 hub genes through PPI results and the Cytoscape plug-in cytoHubba. The top 10 genes were found eventrully by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. The results showed that the insulin resistance, PI3K-Akt signaling pathways and adipocytokine signaling pathway might be the central pathways associated with the treatment of obesity by kudingcha. Next, we used Real-Time PCR to detect the expression levels of ISNR, SLc2a4 and APOE genes to study its mechanism.
Results
The results showed that compared with the blank group, the expression of ISNR and SLc2a4 increased and the expression of APOE decreased.
Discussion & Conclusion:
Our experiments confirmed that Kudingcha contains compounds that can improve insulin resistance and obesity. This can provide a reference for further research and application of Kudingcha in the treatment of obesity.
Interactive travel time scenario modeling tool to facilitate disaster response, demonstrated on the Idai disaster in Chimanimani
Authors: MAZHAWIDZA THERESA , Murwira Karin , Mazhindu Aldridge Nyasha 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Disruption to critical infrastructure is of major interest to engineers, policy-makers and planners. A resilient transport system should be able to withstand the adverse impacts of undesirable weather conditions such as flooding, landslides etc and be able to function in such weather without posing further disaster to locals depending on such infrastructure for services. The focus of this paper is to study and model the loss of accessibility in terms of delay in travel time that was experienced during the Chimanimani Idai floods as a result of damage to the key bridges that linked the area. The model should be interactive in nature allowing the testing or modeling of different scenarios with different parameters and possibly be used by policy makers and site engineers during planning and disaster mitigation. In order to reduce or completely avoid the cascading effects of a disaster such as witnessed during Cyclone Idai in Chimanimani there is need to fully understand the behavior and dependency of transport infrastructure networks and possibly model methodologies and techniques which can be used to assess and weight different options targeted to reduce the impact of hazards.
Base Flipping Mechanism and Binding Strength of Methyl-damaged DNA during the Interaction with AGT
Authors: Koirala Rajendra Prasad , Adhikari Narayan Prasad 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Methyl damage to DNA bases is common in the cell nucleus. O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyl transferase(AGT) may be a promising candidate for direct damage reversal in methylated DNA (mDNA) at the O6 point of the guanine. Indeed, atomic-level investigations in the contact region of AGT-DNA complex can provide an in-depth understanding of their binding mechanism, allowing to evaluate silico-drug nature of AGT and its utility in removing methyl damage in DNA. In this study, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was utilized to examine the flipping of methylated nucleotide, the binding mechanism between mDNA and AGT, and the comparison of binding strength prior and post methyl transfer to AGT. The study reveals that methylation at the O6 atom of guanine weakens hydrogen bonds between guanine and cytosine, permitting for the flipping of such nucleotide. The formation of a hydrogen bond between the base pair of methylated nucleotide (i.e., cytosine) and the intercalated arginine of AGT also forces the nucleotide to rotate. Following that, hydrogen bonding, electrostatics, and van der Waals interactions are the most important interactions in the formation of a stable complex of DNA and AGT molecules. The stronger binding of AGT with DNA before methyl transfer creates the suitable condition to transfer methyl adduct from DNA to AGT.
Outcomes of Delayed Laparoscopic Sigmoidectomy with Primary Anastomosis After Colonoscopy Sigmoid Devolvulation
Authors: Pulido Jean A , Cabrera Luis F , Pedraza Mauricio , Bernal Felipe , Villarreal Ricardo , Carrera Javier A , Pinzón Laura Padilla , Villamizar Daniela Moreno , Strassmann Victor , Saverio Salomone Di , Fuentes Maria Camila Castañeda , Sanchez Maria Paula Navia 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Sigmoid Volvulus is the consequence of the rotation of the superior mesosigmoid. Initial management in patients without signs of peritoneal irritation is endoscopic devolvulation with a flexible colonoscope. Laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with primary anastomosis after colonoscopy is a feasible procedure. It has shown reduction in morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to show the outcomes of performing a delayed sigmoidectomy with primary anastomosis after colonoscopy sigmoid devolvulation.
Methods
We conducted a descriptive, retrospective study of patients who underwent colonoscopy sigmoid devolvulation followed by a laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with primary anastomosis after 3 or 5 days following the colonoscopy. Sigmoid volvulus was diagnosed based on clinical and radiological findings. All patients underwent abdominopelvic X-Ray and CT scan was used to confirm and evaluate the concomitant complications.
We exclude patients with generalized or localized peritonitis, free air, needing immediate surgery, with hemodynamic instability, acute or chronic malnutrition, noncontrolled intra-abdominal or systemic infections and comorbidities that contraindicate a laparoscopic approach.
Results
During the study period 67 patients underwent successful colonoscopy sigmoid devolvulation with delayed sigmoidectomy by single-port laparoscopy after 3 or 5 days following the procedure. Only one patient underwent anastomotic leakage. No recurrence rates were reported after two years of follow up.
Conclusion
Delayed single-port laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with primary anastomosis performed days after a sigmoid devolvulation is an effective approach on stable patients. Delaying the surgery must be a decision of the surgeon, based on the clinical state of the patient.
Targeted Chemoimmunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Dual-Stimulus Responsive Nanocarrier for Enhanced Antitumor Response
Authors: Song Jinxiao , Jing Zhenghui , Zhou Jingyi , Zhang Deteng , Zang Xinlong , Wu You 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a global health challenge and accounts for ~ 90% of liver cancers. Immunotherapy is demonstrating potent potential for HCC treatment. However, the therapeutic efficacy has been impeded by poor immunogenicity and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Herein, we developed a dual-stimulus responsive nanocarrier (PN@GPB-PEG NPs) to co-deliver chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel (PTX) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibitor NLG919 for HCC chemoimmunotherapy. The resulting nanoparticles demonstrated tumor-specific accumulation and efficient cellular uptake in HCC cells. Furthermore, rapid cargo release could be observed as reactive oxygen species (ROS) triggered disassembly within tumor cells. PTX triggered immunogenic cell death (ICD) to provoke antitumor immune responses meanwhile NLG919 mediated IDO inhibition relieved immunosuppression in tumor microenvironment. As a result, the dual-stimulus responsive nanoparticles efficiently boosted the synergistic antitumor effects and inhibited postoperative tumor recurrence in a mouse HCC model. Hence, the nanoparticles provide a promising strategy for HCC chemoimmunotherapy.