bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cloning and characterization of the LvCTL genes encoding C-type lectin from white-leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Phuong Tran Vinh , Nguyen Xuan Huy , Quang Lich Nguyen , Hoang Quang Tan , Tran Ngoc Nguyen , Nguyen Phuoc Ngoc , Linh Nguyen Quang 
Published: September 2023

Background: Lectins are carbohydrate-binding protein domains. The C-type designates a requirement for calcium for binding. Proteins contain C-type lectin domains with diverse functions, including cell-cell adhesion, immune response to pathogens, and apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate the characters of LvCTL encoding genes from white-leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) in Central Vietnam. Methods: Two PCR products (LvCTL3 and LvCTL4) were cloned and sequenced. The structure and characterization of LvCTL proteins were predicted using bioinformatics tools. Results: The results showed that the LvCTL3 gene was 444 nucleotides long and 98.87% similar to the published LvCTL3 gene (accession number: KF156943). The polypeptide sequence had 147 amino acids, which were 97.28% identical to the reference sequence (AGV68681), and the LvCTL4 gene had a length of 417 nucleotides and homology of 99.52% compared to the published gene (KM387560). The deduced polypeptide sequence had 138 amino acids and was 100% similar to the reference sequence (AKA64754). The LvCTL3 had a molecular weight of 16.91 kDa and an isoelectric point (pI) of 4.66, while LvCTL4 had 15.75 and 4.58 kDa, respectively. The structure prediction results showed that LvCTL3 and LvCTL4 had one domain (CTLD), LvCTL3 had two α helices and nine β sheets, and LvCTL4 had two α helices and eight β sheets. Conclusions: Our results provide essential information for C-type lectins' heterologous expression and biosynthesis production.
Impact of estrogen and progesterone hormone receptors on the progression of interferon-γ sensitized breast cancer cells
Authors: Shihab Israa , Bouzid Amal , Yener Burcu , Altaie Alaa , Manasa Bhamidimarri Poorna , Al Ameri Mouza , Bendardaf Riyad , Hamad Mawieh , Hamoudi Rifat 
Published: September 2023

Background: Breast cancer is a chronic complex disease. Its progression depends partly on the interaction between tumor and immune cells. Whilst immunotherapy is the new promising treatment, many patients with breast cancer acquire resistance. Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) is a pleiotropic cytokine that is primarily released by T cells and natural killer (NK) cells and has always been praised for its antitumor activities. However, IFN-γ may induce different modulations in breast cancer cells that are expressing or not expressing the hormone receptors estrogen and progesterone. Methods: In this study, to examine the effect of IFN-γ on the subtypes of breast cancer in relation to the expression of estrogen and progesterone genes, we performed RNA-sequencing on the triple negative cells MDA-MB231 and ER/PR transfected MDA-MB231 cells (untreated or treated with 100 ng/ml IFN-γ). Various bioinformatics analyses were performed to investigate the affected functional pathways, and immune genes related to the different types of breast cancer cells. Results: The set of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that are regulated by IFN-γ were unique, and specific to each breast cancer subtype. These unique DEG patterns in hormone-positive cells (GBP3, HLA-DPA1, HLA-DRB1, HLA-E, IL6) and triple negative cells (IFI6, ISG15, CCL5) showed significant but distinct effects on patients’ overall survival as well as noticeable differences in immune modulation and regulation. Conclusions: IFN-γ signaling can differentially affect the pattern of gene expression in breast cancer cells in an estrogen receptor (ER) / progesterone receptor (PR)-dependent manner. IFN-γ treatment of ER+/PR+ breast cancer cells upregulated the expression of genes related to immune cells and showed improved patient prognosis, while TNBC showed negative regulation of the expression of genes related to immune cells and worse patient prognosis.
Load-induced blood marker kinetics in patients with medial knee compartment osteoarthritis are associated with accumulated load and patient reported outcome measures
Authors: Mündermann Annegret , Nüesch Corina , Herger Simon , Liphardt Anna-Maria , Chammartin Frédérique , De Pieri Enrico , Egloff Christian 
Published: September 2023

Background: This study aimed to quantify the mechanoresponse of 10 blood marker candidates for joint metabolism to a walking stress test in patients with knee osteoarthritis and to determine the association among marker kinetics and with accumulated load and patient reported outcomes. Methods: 24 patients with knee osteoarthritis completed questionnaires, and a walking stress test with six blood serum samples and gait analysis. Concentrations of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-1, -3, and -9, epitope resulting from cleavage of type II collagen by collagenases (C2C), type II procollagen (CPII), interleukin (IL)-6, proteoglycan (PRG)-4, A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)-4, and resistin were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, Joint load (moments and compartmental forces) was estimated using musculoskeletal modeling using gait analysis data. Results: COMP and MMP-3 showed an immediate increase after the walking stress followed by a decrease. MMP-9 and resistin showed a delayed decrease below pre-stress levels. ∆COMP correlated with ∆MMP-3 for most time points. ∆MMP-9 correlated with ∆resistin for most time points. The load-induced increase in blood marker levels correlated among blood markers and time points. C2C and resistin correlated positively and C2C/CPII and MMP2 correlated negatively with load during gait. Immediate relative ∆CPII and ∆MMP1 and delayed relative ∆COMP, ∆IL6, ∆C2C, ∆CPII, ∆MMP1 and ∆MMP3 correlated with the load accumulated during the walking stress. Baseline C2C levels correlated with Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales and load-induced changes in MMP-3 with KOOS and Short Form 36 quality of life subscores (P<0.05). Conclusions: The distinct and differentiated physiological response to the walking stress depends on accumulated load and appears relevant for patient reported osteoarthritis outcome and quality of life and warrants further investigation in the context of disease progression. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT02622204
Effect of green tea extract antioxidant on dentin shear bond strength and resin-tag penetration depth after non-vital bleaching
Authors: Safinaz Darin , Widyandari Paramita , Meidyawati Ratna , Kusumasari Citra , Nyoman Putri Artiningsih Dewa Ayu 
Published: September 2023

Background: 35% Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as an active material for internal bleaching produce free radicals that can affect the adhesive system. Application of 10% and 35% green tea (GT) extract as an antioxidant after 2 minutes are expected can remove free radical residues. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of 10% and 35% GT extract after 2 minutes of application on dentin shear bond strength and resin tags penetration depth after non-vital bleaching. Methods: The crown part of 30 extracted healthy human premolars were cut horizontally 2 mm from the cementoenamel junction, then split in mesio-distal direction. The specimens were divided into five groups: normal dentin, post-bleaching dentin, delayed 2 weeks, 10% GT, and 35% GT group. Non-vital walking bleach with 35% H2O2 gel was done to all groups except control group. Soon after, 10% and 35% GT extract gel were applied on dentin for 2 minutes, then the specimens were rinsed off with distilled water for 2 minutes and dried. All specimens were etched and bonded with an etch-and-rinse adhesive system and filled with resin composite. The shear bond strength assessment was done using a Universal Testing Machine with a cross-head speed of 0.5 mm/minute. Confocal laser scanning microscopy with a wavelength of 560 nm and a lens magnification of 40x was used to analyze the resin tag penetration. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Results: There was a significant difference in resin tag penetration depth and shear bond strength between 10% and 35% GT group (p < 0.05). The 35% GT group resulted in a significantly longer resin tag penetration than the 10% GT group. Conclusions: The application of 35% GT extract is more effective than 10% GT extract as an antioxidant for increasing the shear bond strength of composite resin after internal bleaching.
A mixed-methods evaluation of capacity strengthening within an international conservation agriculture research consortium
Authors: Duda Kirsten , D’Artibale Alessia , Moombe Miyanda , Lark R.Murray , Pulford Justin 
Published: September 2023

Background: The Strengthening Capacity in Environmental Physics, Hydrogeology and Statistics for conservation agriculture research (CEPHaS) consortium sought to to strengthen research capacity among a network of African and UK researchers, and their respective institutions, to fill knowledge gaps on the impacts of conservation agriculture practices on the water cycle in cultivated soils. We examined experiences of consortium membership and, drawing on this information, determined key recommendations for future programmes with similar objectives. Methods: A mixed methods study encompassing an online survey (N=40) and semi-structured interviews (N=19) completed between June 2021 and February 2022 with CEPHaS consortium members from Malawi, UK, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Survey and interview data were analysed separately, using univariate statistics and framework synthesis respectively Results: Survey and interview findings were generally aligned, with both revealing a wide range of reported capacity strengthening gains resulting from CEPHaS engagement at both an individual and institutional level. Participants consistently expressed their CEPHaS involvement in positive terms with praise for the applied ‘learn by doing’ approach underpinning many of the activities as well as the engaging and highly inclusive leadership. There was evidence that the various trainings and resources provided through CEPHaS were valued, frequently utilised, and often transferred beyond the immediate CEPHaS membership for wider benefit. Resource provision and staff training were seen as foundational for long-term institutional benefits. Some challenges and suggested areas for improvement were reported by participants as were potential opportunities to facilitate greater impact. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the basic ‘template’ of the CEPHaS consortium provided a strong basis for research capacity strengthening in Conservation Agriculture, especially at the level of individual researchers, and that this template could be further enhanced in any future iteration of the same or similar programme. Recommendations for replicating and enhancing CEPHaS programme strengths are presented.
Case Report: Breaking barriers - Pregnancy achieved by intracytoplasmic sperm injection of a zona-free oocyte
Authors: Shrivastava Jarul , More Akash , Shrivastava Virul , Anjankar Namrata 
Published: September 2023

The zona pellucida is a protective layer surrounding the oocytes and early-stage embryos. It is said to be essential for the process of fertilisation and protecting the pre-implantation embryo. Absence of zona pellucida can pose great problems during in vitro fertilisation (IVF), like impaired fertilisation, polyspermy and hindered embryo development, thus leading to a low implantation rate and unsuccessful pregnancy outcome. This case report demonstrates the successful treatment of primary infertility in a 35-year-old female with significantly low anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels and limited ovarian reserve. Her husband (41 years) had oligoasthenozoospermia. The couple had been trying to conceive for two years before seeking medical assistance. Following an unsuccessful intrauterine insemination (IUI) attempt, the decision was made to pursue IVF with ovarian stimulation. Two oocytes were retrieved after ovum pickup, one of which was at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage and later degenerated, while the other was without the zona pellucida. In this case, the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) of zona-free oocyte was chosen to prevent polyspermy, resulting in successful fertilization. The embryo progressed to the eight-cell stage and was transferred on day three. A positive beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) test confirmed pregnancy fourteen days later. In assisted reproductive techniques (ART), zona-free oocytes are a common occurrence, but fertilizing those oocytes is not common; they are usually considered to be of no use and rejected. In the present case, we realized that zona-free gametes are not only capable of getting fertilized and developing into good-quality embryos, but also give successful pregnancy outcomes.
Efficacy of modafinil compared to γ-hydroxybutyrate in the treatment of narcolepsy
Authors: Kennedy Aaron L. , Boileau Andrew J. 
Published: September 2023

Hypothesis: γ-hydroxybutyrate is more efficacious than modafinil in the treatment of patients with narcolepsy. Methods: A total of four research papers were reviewed and analyzed to assess the validity of the hypothesis. Studies compared the effects of each of the drugs on narcolepsy symptoms. Results of both subjective and objective tests were considered by these studies to complete the analysis. These tests were Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Maintenance of Sleep Test, measures of sleep attacks and inadvertent naps, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and polysomnography. Results: Each of the reviewed studies showed significant evidence of improved narcolepsy symptoms (efficacy) with the use of both γ-hydroxybutyrate and modafinil. There was also a positive correlation between dosage and efficacy for γ-hydroxybutyrate. Some studies showed additive interaction between modafinil and γ-hydroxybutyrate when used in combination. Overall, it is suggested that the efficacy of γ-hydroxybutyrate is potentially superior to that of modafinil, but greatest improvements occur when these drugs are used in combination. Conclusions: While both γ-hydroxybutyrate and modafinil both significantly improve the symptoms of narcolepsy, the difference between these drugs’ maximal magnitude of efficacy remains unclear. While most findings did support the hypothesis, additional research is required.
Parametrizing analog multi-compartment neurons with genetic algorithms
Authors: Stock Raphael , Kaiser Jakob , Müller Eric , Schemmel Johannes , Schmitt Sebastian 
Published: September 2023

Background: Finding appropriate model parameters for multi-compartmental neuron models can be challenging. Parameters such as the leak and axial conductance are not always directly derivable from neuron observations but are crucial for replicating desired observations. The objective of this study is to replicate the attenuation behavior of an excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) traveling along a linear chain of compartments on the analog BrainScaleS-2 neuromorphic hardware platform. Methods: In the present publication we use genetic algorithms to find suitable model parameters. They promise parameterization without domain knowledge of the neuromorphic substrate or underlying neuron model. To validate the results of the genetic algorithms, a comprehensive grid search was conducted. Trial-to-trial variations in the analog system are counteracted utilizing spike-triggered averaging. Results and conclusions: The algorithm successfully replicated the desired EPSP attenuation behavior in both single and multi-objective searches illustrating the applicability of genetic algorithms to parameterize analog neuromorphic hardware.
Forget-Me-Not: The Persistent Effect of Information Provision for Adopting Climate-Friendly Goods
Authors: Gao Yu , Tavoni Massimo 
Published: September 2023

It is well documented that people have misperceptions about energy costs. However, there is mixed empirical evidence about the effectiveness of information provision and its persistence over time. Understanding the interplay between information regarding the private and social benefits of low-carbon technologies and identifying mechanisms through which information treatments affect people’s long-term behaviors can help reconcile the mixed findings in the literature. In this paper, we measured the long-term effects of information provision through online experiments involving more than 3,000 households in China. We provided people with information on low-carbon light bulbs’ monetary and climate benefits and observed their purchasing decisions over 10 months. We find that information on private or social benefits leads to a temporary effect on most households and a persistent one on the uninformed. This evidence suggests that information provision works through two different mechanisms: increasing saliency and filling the information gap. This paper was accepted by Yan Chen, behavioral economics and decision analysis. Funding: Y. Gao received financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 71903006]. M. Tavoni received financial support from the FP7 Ideas: European Research Council [Grant ERC-336155–COBHAM]. Supplemental Material: The data files and online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4910 .
A Primal-Dual Smoothing Framework for Max-Structured Non-Convex Optimization
Authors: Zhao Renbo 
Published: September 2023

We propose a primal-dual smoothing framework for finding a near-stationary point of a class of nonsmooth nonconvex optimization problems with max-structure. We analyze the primal and dual gradient complexities of the framework via two approaches, that is, the dual-then-primal and primal-the-dual smoothing approaches. Our framework improves the best-known oracle complexities of the existing method, even in the restricted problem setting. As an important part of our framework, we propose a first-order method for solving a class of (strongly) convex-concave saddle-point problems, which is based on a newly developed non-Hilbertian inexact accelerated proximal gradient algorithm for strongly convex composite minimization that enjoys duality-gap convergence guarantees. Some variants and extensions of our framework are also discussed. Funding: R. Zhao’s research is partially supported by AFOSR [Grant FA9550-22-1-0356].
Understanding advance care planning for children and young people: a survey of health professionals
Authors: Hughes Ben , Philips Matthew , Holme Vanessa 
Published: September 2023

Background: A range of polices, documentation, and practices are associated with advance care planning. However, there is a shortage of research to understand advance care planning from a professional viewpoint. Aims: To explore the views and experiences of health professionals of the advance care planning process with children and young people. Methods: An online questionnaire was used to collect data, which were analysed thematically. Findings: Key findings related to barriers and facilitators to initiating and documenting advance care planning: understanding the process and the condition of the patient; how advance care planning works in practice; and access to relevant, affordable training options. Conclusion: Additional training and standardised documentation can help support the initiation and use of advance care planning, reduce misperceptions, and generate greater confidence in participating in the process. A larger multidisciplinary team, with better communication, will support improved relationships between professionals which will filter down to the families.
Fast ICCD-based temperature modulated fluorescence tomography
Authors: Nouizi Farouk , Kwong Tiffany C. , Turong Bryan , Nikkhah Deniz , Sampathkumaran Uma , Gulsen Gultekin 
Published: September 2023

Fluorescence tomography (FT) has become a powerful preclinical imaging modality with a great potential for several clinical applications. Although it has superior sensitivity and utilizes low-cost instrumentation, the highly scattering nature of bio-tissue makes FT in thick samples challenging, resulting in poor resolution and low quantitative accuracy. To overcome the limitations of FT, we previously introduced a novel method, termed temperature modulated fluorescence tomography (TMFT), which is based on two key elements: (1) temperature-sensitive fluorescent agents (ThermoDots) and (2) high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). The fluorescence emission of ThermoDots increases up to hundredfold with only several degree temperature elevation. The exceptional and reversible response of these ThermoDots enables their modulation, which effectively allows their localization using the HIFU. Their localization is then used as functional a priori during the FT image reconstruction process to resolve their distribution with higher spatial resolution. The last version of the TMFT system was based on a cooled CCD camera utilizing a step-and-shoot mode, which necessitated long total imaging time only for a small selected region of interest (ROI). In this paper, we present the latest version of our TMFT technology, which uses a much faster continuous HIFU scanning mode based on an intensified CCD (ICCD) camera. This new, to the best of our knowledge, version can capture the whole field-of-view (FOV) of 50×30mm2 at once and reduces the total imaging time down to 30 min, while preserving the same high resolution (∼1.3mm) and superior quantitative accuracy (<7% error) as the previous versions. Therefore, this new method is an important step toward utilization of TMFT for preclinical imaging.
An analysis of the spread of electric field within the cochlea for different devices including custom-made electrodes for subtotal cochleoectomy
Authors: Wagner Luise , Plontke Stefan K. , Rahne Torsten 
Published: September 2023

Objective
Cochlear implants (CIs) can restore hearing not only in patients with profound hearing loss and deafness, but also in patients following tumour removal of intra-cochlear schwannomas. In such cases, design and placement differ from conventional electrode insertion, in which the cochlea remains filled with fluid. Despite these technical and surgical differences, previous studies have tended to show positive results in speech perception in tumour patients. The purpose of this study is to retrospectively evaluate the ability to predict speech recognition outcomes using individual electric field spreads and to investigate worldwide unique tumour cases.

Study design
In a retrospective analysis in a university tertiary center electric field spreads were compared between two groups of electrode designs implanted between 2009 and 2020 i.e., between lateral wall electrodes and custom-made perimodiolar electrode carriers from the same company. The voltage gradients were analysed and grouped with speech recognition results.

Results
Differences in electrical field spreads were found between lateral wall electrodes and the custom-made perimodiolar electrodes, whereas a significant influence of electric fields on scores in speech recognition cannot be demonstrated.

Conclusion
Prediction of speech recognition outcome based on electric field propagation results seems not feasible. Significant differences in field spread between electrode arrays can be clearly demonstrated. This observation and its relevance to hearing treatment and speech recognition should therefore be further investigated in upcoming studies.