bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In vitro blastocyst implantation and trophoblast migration are disrupted by the UV filter benzophenone-3 (BP3)
Authors: Abud Julián Elías , Pagotto Romina , Galliani Valentina , Teglia Carla , Culzoni Julia , Bollati-Fogolín Mariela , Zenclussen María Laura , Rodríguez Horacio Adolfo 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Benzophenone-3 (BP3), a common ingredient in personal care products (PCPs) due to its well-established effectiveness in blocking UV radiation, is considered an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) mainly based on in vitro estrogenic and antiandrogenic effects. Sunscreen products are among the most widely used PCPs-containing BP3 applied to the skin, resulting in significant human exposure to BP3 primarily through a dermal application. In the present work, we have tested the action of BP3 using an in vitro model of anchoring and implantation of murine blastocysts as well as by analyzing the migration ability of the human trophoblast cell line Swan 71. BP3 concentrations used in our experiments were: a) 2 µg/L, based on the predicted no-effect concentration for aquatic environments; b) 20 µg/L, similar to the levels of BP3 detected in serum and amniotic fluid of pregnant mice exposed to BP3 from gestation day 0 to gd 6 by dermal exposure; and c) BP3-200 µg/L, based on plasma concentrations reached by BP3 after a whole body topical application of sunscreens in humans. We found that BP3 negatively affected critical parameters of both in vitro implantation and early embryo development and reduced trophoblast migration through the androgen receptor (AR) pathway. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that BP3 can affect early in vitro embryo implantation and trophoblast migration capacity.
Numerical Inference on the Burr-XII Distribution Parameters and Reliability Using the Runge-Kutta Method
Authors: Maswadah M. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In parameter estimation techniques, the distribution parameters are usually independent, but theoretically, they are dependent because they are estimated from the same set of samples. The parameter dependence is unlike the statistical dependence between random variables. Thus, based on this dependence, the Runge-Kutta method can be applied to estimate the Burr-XII parameters and reliability and compare them with the Bayesian estimates based on the informative and kernel priors, via Monte Carlo simulations. The simulation results indicated that the Runge-Kutta method is highly favorable, which provides better estimates and outperforms the Bayesian method using different loss functions. Finally, real data analyses are presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed methods based on the generalized progressive hybrid-censoring scheme.
Computer-aided Cognitive Training Combined with tDCS Can Improve Cognitive Function and Cerebrovascular Reactivity After Ischemic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chen Yin , Zhao Ziqi , Huang Jiapeng , Wang Tingting , Qu Yun 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Cognitive impairment after stroke is one of the main functional disorders after stroke, with an incidence of up to 80%, which is the focus and difficulty of poststroke rehabilitation intervention. Computer-aided cognitive training (CACT) refers to the use of smartphones, tablet computers and other electronic devices to provide targeted training content for different cognitive function impairments. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), as a noninvasive brain stimulation technique, has shown some efficacy in the rehabilitation of cognitive impairment after stroke. This study examined the effectiveness of computer-assisted cognitive training and tDCS in the treatment of poststroke cognitive dysfunction and explored whether the combination of the two is better than any single therapy.
Methods
A total of 72 patients with PSCI admitted to the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University from November 2021 to September 2022 were randomly divided into the control group (n=18) that patients received conventional cognitive training, tDCS group (n=18), CACT group (n=18), and CACT plus tDCS group (n=18). All four groups were given conventional drugs and rehabilitation treatment. Each group received corresponding 20-minute treatment 15 times a week for 3 consecutive weeks. The main outcome was the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to assess patients' cognitive function, and the secondary outcomes were the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (IADL) to assess activities of daily living and cerebral vesselfunction tested by transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD). Assessment is at baseline and posttreatment.
Results
Compared with baseline, the MoCA and IADL scores significantly increased after treatment (P<0.01) in all groups, but thecombined group showed better improvement than the other three groups (P=0.006, 0.002, 0.011), and there were no significant differences within the control group, CACT group and tDCS group. Only CACT combined with tDCS group showed an advantage in improving vasomotor reactivity (p ≤ 0.05).
Conclusion
The combination of CACT and tDCS could more effectively improve PSCI and the ability of daily living in patients with cognitive impairment after stroke, and that may be associated with cerebrovascular function.
Trial registration number
The study was registered in Chinese Registry of Clinical Trials (ChiCTR2100054063). Registration date: 12/08/2021.
Breaking Barriers: Spousal Perceptions and Role in Promoting Breast Cancer Screening
Authors: Kamila Kayla Aisha , Liow Jonathan Jun Kit , Giam Freda , Lim Zi Lin , Ho Peh Joo , Sim Tomiko Mei Ying , Khng Alexis , Chin Chi Hui , Iau Philip Tsau Choong , Liu Jenny , Kwek Sing Cher , Zhang Zhi Peng , Tan Benita Kiat Tee , Tan Veronique Kiak Mien , Hartman Mikael , McCrickerd Keri , Li Jingmei 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background:
Spouses can play a role in supporting and motivating their wives’ uptake of breast cancer screening.
Methods:
We first establish the reasons for mammography screening attendance in women with no history of breast cancer (n=3,395) through a structured questionnaire. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 19 husbands of women with no history of breast cancer. The FGD prompts included questions on husbands’ attitudes towards mammography screening, their roles in their wives’ health, and their opinions on risk-based screening. Four FGDs with 4 to 7 participants were transcribed, coded, and thematically analysed.
Results:
The analysis of the FGD’s revealed six key themes on husbands’ (median age 41 years) attitudes towards women’s breast cancer screening practices: Awareness of breast health, priorities, social support structures, fears, incentives, and attitudes towards risk-based screening, which were supported by the questionnaire data. Husbands were interested in their wives’ health and assisted in appointments. However, they lacked awareness towards breast health and screening, thus limiting their influence. There were themes identified in the questionnaire data that were not brought up in the FGDs, suggesting a possible lack of communication and sharing of health-related information between spouses. Husbands generally accepted breast cancer risk-based screening but highlighted some concerns including the frequency of testing and the interpretation of results.
Conclusion:
Extrinsic motivation from a spouse can play a crucial role in overcoming barriers, addressing fears or anxieties, and ultimately increasing the likelihood of the individual undergoing mammography screening.
Early deep-to-light sedation versus continuous light sedation for critically ill patients with mechanical ventilation: a cohort study
Authors: Xu Jiayue , He Qiao , Wang Mingqi , Wang Zichen , Wu Wenkai , Li Lingling , Wang Wen , Sun Xin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
The sedation strategies have not been well established for patients with invasive mechanical ventilation (MV). This study compared alternative sedation strategies – including early deep-to-light sedation (DTLS), continuous deep sedation (CDS) and continuous light sedation (CLS, the currently recommended strategy) – on ventilator, ICU or hospital mortality.
Methods
A cohort study was conducted using two large validated ICU databases, including the Registry of Healthcare-associated Infections in ICUs in China (ICU-HAI) and the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC). Patients who received MV for more than 3 days with one of three sedation strategies were included. Multi-variable survival analyses with inverse probability-weighted competing risk models were conducted separately for ICU-HAI and MIMIC cohorts. The adjusted estimates were pooled using fixed-effects model.
Results
In total, 6700 patients (2627 ICU-HAI, 4073 MIMIC) were included in cohort study, of whom 2689 received CLS, 2099 CDS and 1932 DTLS. Compared to CLS, DTLS was associated with lower ICU mortality (9.3% vs. 11.0%; pooled adjusted HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.66–0.94) and hospital mortality (16.0% vs. 14.1%; 0.86, CI 0.74-1.00); and CDS was associated with higher ventilator mortality (32.8% vs. 7.0%; 5.38, 4.49–6.46), ICU mortality (40.6% vs. 11.0%; 3.39, 2.95–3.90) and hospital mortality (46.8% vs. 14.1%; 3.27, 2.89–3.71) than CLS. All HRs were qualitatively consistent in both cohorts.
Conclusion
Compared to the continuous light sedation, early deep-to-light sedation strategy may improve patient outcomes, and continuous deep sedation was confirmed with poorer patient outcomes.
Effects of the Nds-powerball® System on Muscle Strength, Coordination, Fatigue, Functionality and Quality of Life in People With Multiple Sclerosis. A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Fernández Aitor Blázquez , Jiménez Gemma López Hazas , Vázquez Diego Fernández , López Víctor Navarro , González Pilar Fernández , Antón Selena Marcos , Rueda Francisco Molina , Cuerda Roberto Cano de la 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction
Clinical impairment of the upper limbs (UL) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is very common. Muscle strength and hand dexterity are critical factors in maintaining functional activities that are the basis for independence and quality of life.
Objective
Investigate the effects of a training protocol using the NDS-Powerball® system in combination with conventional physiotherapy on muscle strength, coordination, fatigue, functionality, and quality of life in persons with MS over an 8-week period.
Materials and Methods
A double-blind randomized controlled trial with two intervention groups was conducted. The control group received conventional treatment, while the experimental group received additional UL training using the NDS-Powerball® system. Both groups received the same number of sessions and weeks of intervention. The following outcome measures were used: isometric grip and pinch strength, Box and Block Test (BBT), Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT), Abilhand scale, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), and Likert satisfaction questionnaire for the experimental group. All measures were administered at baseline, after the treatment, and during a 3-week follow-up period.
Results
25 patients completed the study (12 persons with MS and 13 healthy control subjects). The experimental group showed significant improvements in coordination and manual dexterity of the more affected UL as measured by the BBT comparing pre- to post-treatment (p = 0.048) and pre-treatment to follow-up (p = 0.001), and on the less affected UP comparing pre-treatment to follow-up (p < 0.001) and post-treatment to follow-up (p = 0.034). The Likert-type satisfaction questionnaire obtained a mean score of 89.10 (± 8.54) out of 100 points.
Conclusions
An UL treatment protocol using the NDS-Powerball® system, in combination with conventional physiotherapy for 8 weeks resulted in significant improvements in the intra-group analysis for UL coordination and manual dexterity in favor of the experimental group. The experimental group showed excellent satisfaction to the treatment.
Molecular characterization of a novel cytorhabdovirus infecting Plumbago indica L.
Authors: Nie Zhangyao , Zhang Xiuqi , Li Yingxi , Zhang Zongying , Han Chenggui , Wang Ying 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In 2021, Plumbago indica L. plants showing leaves necrotic spots were observed in Beijing, China. Through high-throughput sequencing (HTS), we discovered a putative novel Cytorhabdovirus, which was provisionally named plumbago necrotic spot associated virus (PNSaV). The full-length genome of negative-sense single-stranded RNA comprises 13,180 nucleotides and contains eight putative open reading frames (ORFs), in the order of 3′ leader-N-P′-P-P3-M-G-P6-L-5′ trailer. The phylogenetic analysis and pairwise comparisons suggested that PNSaV is closely related to chrysanthemum yellow dwarf associated virus (CYDaV), with 57.18% nucleotide sequence identity in the complete genome level and 53.00% amino acid sequence identity in the L protein level. These findings suggest PNSaV to be considered as a new member of the genus Cytorhabdovirus.
Influence of atmosphere on carbonaceous film formation in rubbing, metallic contacts
Authors: Zhang Jie , Bolle Bastien , Wong Janet S.S. , Spikes Hugh A. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Many previous researchers have reported the formation of carbonaceous tribofilms from organic lubricants on rubbing metallic surfaces. This paper shows that a very important factor in the formation of such tribofilms is the presence or absence of molecular oxygen. When steel surfaces are rubbed in saturated hydrocarbon lubricants in the absence of oxygen, for example in nitrogen or hydrogen gas, carbonaceous films form very readily, resulting in low friction and wear. However, when a significant amount of oxygen is present, as is the case in air, carbonaceous tribofilms are not generally formed, so friction and wear are very high, with values comparable to those seen when no lubricant is present. In-situ Raman analysis combined with gas switching experiments shows that the carbonaceous films formed during rubbing when no oxygen is present are rapidly removed during rubbing in air, while tests in which lubricant is removed during a test in N2 indicate that the films are quite weak. This suggests that these carbonaceous films are being continually removed and replenished during rubbing in oxygen-free conditions. It is proposed that these carbonaceous films are formed from hydrocarbyl free radicals that are generated mechanochemically from hydrocarbon molecules during rubbing. In the absence of oxygen, these free radicals then react together to form a carbonaceous film. However, when oxygen is present, the hydrocarbyl free radicals react extremely rapidly with oxygen molecules to produce hydroperoxyl free radicals and so are no longer available to generate a carbonaceous tribofilm.
Are native plants always better for wildlife than invasives? Insights from a community-level bird-exclusion experiment
Authors: Clark Robert E , Carter Wales A , Ku Timothy C.W. , Seewagen Chad L 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Biological invasions can threaten biodiversity by outcompeting native species and disrupting food webs. Invasive species are now a leading driver of biodiversity and imperiled species declines worldwide. In temperate forests of eastern North America, understory plant communities are frequently dominated by invasive woody shrubs and trees. For many species of insectivorous birds and mammals, these invasive plants may threaten populations by providing less and/or lower quality food. Conservation practitioners expend significant resources to remove invasive plants, but evidence that such practices improve food abundance or quality to wildlife is surprisingly limited. Using a bird exclusion experiment, we compared arthropod abundance, biomass, and quality (protein content), and bird foraging intensity among four invasive and six native woody plant species in a Connecticut, USA forest. Analysis revealed instances where native trees were actually poorer foraging resources for songbirds than certain species of invasive shrubs. Some invasive species, such as honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii), supported higher arthropod biomass and protein content than the native plants. Conversely, Japanese barberry had fewer arthropods overall and arthropods of lower protein quality compared to native shrubs. Contrary to predictions from other food web experiments, bird predation effects were of similar magnitude on native and invasive plants, demonstrating that insectivorous songbirds foraged as intensively on the invasive plants as they did on the native plants. We recommend a more nuanced, regionally tailored and species-specific approach to invasive plant management that targets species that provide low-quality foraging opportunities relative to the quality of the local native plant community.
Association between obstructive sleep apnea and metabolic fatty liver disease in the US population: a study based on the 2017-2018 NHANES database.
Authors: Zhu Meng , Pan Fuzhen , Jia Lingjuan , Wu Ruihua , Zhao Yuzhe , Zheng Weifang , Zhang Yongsheng 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
BACKGROUND We included participants aged 18 years or older from the 2017–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).METHODS The association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) score and metabolic fatty liver disease (MAFLD) was assessed using weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS). Interaction and subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were also performed to assess the stability of the results.RESULTS Of the 4263 participants in this study, the mean age was 46.59 years, of which 2175 (51.02%) were female and 2379 (55.81%) had metabolic fatty liver disease. In multivariate logistic regression analyses, metabolic fatty liver was positively associated with metabolic fatty liver in all models except education and aspartate aminotransferase. Multivariable-adjusted restricted triple spline analysis in women showed a linear association between OSA.MAP score and risk of MAFLD (linear p < 0.001), with a median OSA.MAP of 0. 241.In the OSA.MAP score of (0.635,0.998], the OR (95% CI) for women was 7.94 (2.54,24.80). In subgroup analyses, OSA risk scores (< 0.5 low risk, >=0.5 high-risk groups) were associated with sex (interaction P = 0.06), age (interaction P = 0.01), and smoking (interaction P = 0.03). In sensitivity analyses, the association between OSA symptoms and metabolic fatty liver remained stable after adjusting for AST and education or performing up to three-quartile category sensitivity analyses.CONCLUSION Metabolic fatty liver severity may be related to the degree of OSA symptoms. This association was particularly found in female participants.
Effect of oxygen content in printing environment on browning of banana gel system during 3D printing
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Min , Tang Tiantian , Guo Zhimei 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
3D printing is an important way of food processing. However, some fruit and vegetable inks are prone to oxidative browning during 3D printing. In this study, different mass ratios of banana paste and potato powder were used as printing inks to investigate the effects of different oxygen content on the browning of banana-based gel system. The results showed that the optimal printing ink ratio of banana paste and potato powder was 87.5%: 12.5%. With the lower the oxygen content in the environment, the degree of browning of banana-based ink during the printing process was smaller, and the loss of polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant capacity was less. When the oxygen content was below 1%, there was no visual browning. This study has certain reference significance for inhibiting the browning of highly oxidative systems during 3D printing.
Differential Roles of Highly Expressed PFKFB4 across Stages in Colon Adenocarcinoma Patients
Authors: Gu Xiaojing , Dai Xingchen , Huang Yongli , Zhang Yuhuan , Dong Lintao , Gao Chanchan , Wang Fang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is a common malignant tumor, and the role of the protein PFKFB4 in glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathways is crucial. Researchers investigated the clinical significance of PFKFB4 in COAD by studying its expression in 79 tissue samples using immunohistochemistry. They found that PFKFB4 expression was significantly higher in COAD patients, particularly in the sigmoid colon. Interestingly, high PFKFB4 expression was associated with both improved overall survival (OS) and worse progression-free survival (PPS) in COAD patients. Further analysis revealed that genes associated with PFKFB4 were linked to various metabolic pathways, including amino acid biosynthesis, glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glucose metabolism, and inflammatory response. PFKFB4 expression also showed correlations with the infiltration of different immune cell types in COAD patients, such as CD8 + T cells, CD4 + T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, active mast cells, and resting NK cells. Overall, the relationship between PFKFB4 expression and the prognosis of COAD is complex and diverse, possibly playing different roles at different stages of the disease. Moreover, its mechanism might involve interactions with various metabolic pathways and immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential role of PFKFB4 as a biomarker or therapeutic target in COAD.
Evaluating genetic diversity in different populations’ of six salvia species through R-ISSR markers analysis
Authors: Hejazi Seyed Mohsen Hesamzadeh 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The assessment of genetic diversity is crucial for understanding the evolutionary dynamics and conservation implications of plant species. In this study, we employed R-ISSR markers to evaluate the genetic diversity in six Salvia species (S. verticillata, S. glutinosa, S. reutriana, S. hypoleuca, S. leriifolia, and S. limbata) across multiple populations’ in Iran. A total of 28 populations (92 specimens) were sampled, and DNA analysis was performed using R-ISSR markers to assess genetic variation. After screening of 10, R-ISSR primers, four primers that produced clear and reproducible fragments were selected for further analysis.The four primers generated 93 bands ranging in size from 100 to 2000 bp, corresponding to an average of 23.25 bands per primer. Polymorphic information content (PIC value) ranged from 0.223 to 0.260 and marker index (MI) ranged from 4.43 to 6.02 per primer. The primers P9 had the highest PIC (0.260) and P1 had the highest MI (6.02) values. The mean coefficient of gene differentiation (Gst) was 0.7014, indicating that 48% of the genetic diversity resided within the populations’. Based on the general results obtained from this research, various hypothesizes including genetic differentiation, population structure, limited gene flow, marker utility and genetic affinities can be proposed. The observed polymorphism and genetic diversity within and among populations’ of Salvia species suggest that there is significant genetic differentiation between populations’. This could be due to factors such as geographic isolation, habitat differentiation, or reproductive barriers. The clustering analysis and sub-clustering patterns indicate the presence of distinct genetic clusters and subpopulations’ within each Salvia species. The AMOVA results and significant genetic variation among populations’ suggest limited gene flow between populations, potentially influenced by geographical barriers or ecological factors. The primers P1 and P9, which exhibited high levels of polymorphism, can serve as valuable tools for future breeding studies and germplasm management in Salvia species. The genetic affinities and relatedness observed among some populations suggest that certain Salvia species are more closely related to each other than to others.