bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Experiences of Family Caregivers in Dealing with Cases of Advanced Breast Cancer: A Qualitative Study of the Sociocultural Context in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Jabeen Sadia , Zakar Rubeena , Zakar Muhammad Zakria , Fischer Florian 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Among patients with advanced breast cancer, constant help and support are required from family caregivers. However, caregivers themselves go through a difficult situation. Much of the experiences is influenced by sociocultural factors. Thus, this study aimed at exploring the experiences of family caregivers of advanced breast cancer patients.
Methods
We collected data through in-depth interviews from fifteen family caregivers of advanced breast cancer patients in three major cities of Punjab province in Pakistan. Data was analyzed by using thematic analysis.
Results
The study identified that experiences of family caregivers are built in the sociocultural context. Poor knowledge, financial constraints and sociocultural factors determined caregiving pressure, which may lead to stressful situations. Socially constructed values exert a pressure on the caregiver and limits the choice for medical consultation. The preference to consult spiritual healers is also an outcome of these culturally built mindset of caregivers. However, religion is also used as a mechanism to cope with stress. They may result in the delayed decision-making of seeking treatment for the patients.
Conclusions
Family caregivers are important stakeholders in timely treatment decision of advanced breast cancer patients. In order to reduce delays in treatment of patients and reduce the stress of caregiver, it is important to address the sociocultural barriers of seeking care. A tailored approach needs to be incorporated for the management of breast cancer early diagnosis on the basis of sociocultural and religious factors and practices.
Bio-oil From Coconut Fibers: Fractionation by Preparative Liquid Chromatography for Phenols Isolation
Authors: Farrapeira Rafael de Oliveira , Andrade Yasmine B , Conrado Nathalia Mendonça , Schneider Jaderson Kleveston , Krause Laiza Canielas , Caramão Elina Bastos 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

The great potential of bio-products generated from agro-industrial residues from the biomass processing, as is the case of the green coconut fibers (Cocos nucifera L. var. dwarf), makes that Brazil stands out in the field of transformation of these residues, mainly due to its high biodiversity and favorable climatic conditions. In this work, residual green coconut fibers were used in the production of bio-oil by pyrolysis. The bio-oil was fractionated using preparative liquid chromatography in silica (PLC) using solvents at different polarities. Bio-oil and its fractions were analyzed by GC/qMS. PLC of bio-oil increased the number of compounds identified by about 170% compared to the original bio-oil (non-fractionated), besides allowing the isolation of nonpolar compounds (mostly hydrocarbons), from polar compounds (mainly phenols, aldehydes and ketones). Among the compounds, phenols can be highlighted, besides furfural derivatives and hydrocarbons, which indicates the potential use of bio-oil mainly for industrial purposes.
Nuclear factor interleukin 3 and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease development
Authors: Wu Liling , Lin Yung-Ni , Hsu Jia-Rou , Wang Chih-Lin , Huang Yi-Chen , Wu Chun-Ying 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This study investigated sex-specific effects in a gain-of-function model to evaluate Nfil3 function in relation to high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and gut microbiota (GM)-induced alterations in the bile acid (BA) profile. MASLD was induced in wild type and Nfil3-deficient (NKO) C57BL/6J mice fed an HFD. The hepatic immune response was evaluated using flow cytometry. The NKO mice exhibited reduced body weight, serum triglyceride (TG) levels, tissue injury, inflammation, and fat accumulation. The Nfil3 deletion reduced macrophage counts in fibrotic liver tissues, decreased proinflammatory gene and protein expression, and diminished gut barrier function. Alpha and beta diversity analysis revealed increased GM alpha diversity in different sexes. The Nfil3 gene deletion altered the BA profile. Negative feedback via the Nfil3-FXR-FGF15 axis recycles BAs from the liver via enterohepatic circulation. Ultimately, Nfil3 inhibition in the liver could present a potential MASLD treatment option.
Fungal community of multiple compartment niches in spring rapeseed (Brassica rapa L. and Brassica napus L.) responses to different cultivars on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Peng Qingqing , Xie Zhanling , Tang Guoyong , Jiang Hongchen , Guo Jing , Mao Yujing , Wang Bao , Meng Qing , Yang Jiabao , Jia Shunbin , La Mengyue 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Spring rapeseed has developed specific associations with fungi to adapt to extreme environments on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). However, the correlation among rapeseed, fungi and soil on the QTP remain largely unexplored.
Methods
This study comparatively analyzed the fungal diversity and community in multiple compartment niches (rhizosphere soil, root, stem and leaf) in Brassica rapa L. (Haoyou No. 11) and Brassica napus L. (Qingza No. 4, Qingza No.5, Qingza No. 7, Qingza No. 9, Qingza No. 12 and Qingza No. 15). Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) genes were sequenced by High-throughput Illumina sequencing, followed by function prediction using FUNGuild.
Results
B. napus exhibited higher fungal diversity in plant tissues than B. rapa, while B. rapa demonstrated higher fungal richness in the rhizosphere soil (p < 0.05). Olpidium (66.29%), Lactarius (18.37%), and Verticillium (1.99%) were the most abundant genera, and 46 key genera prevalent in all niches and cultivars. Additionally, 19 biomarkers were identified, with Lactarius, Coprinellus, Mortierella and Vishniacozyma significantly enriched in cultivars Qingza No. 15, Qingza No. 12, Qingza No. 7, and Qingza No. 4, respectively, while Haoyou No. 11 harbored 15 other genera. Among them, Saprotroph-Symbiotroph (45.00%) as the dominant guild in the rhizosphere soil. Correlation network analysis indicated that the abundant and key genera showed significantly positive correlations with yield, and fungal biomarkers may contribute to the promotion of plant growth and stress resistance in rapeseed (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
This study provides valuable insights into the relationship between rapeseed and fungal communities on the QTP.
HIV Mortality and Associated Factors in Patients Admitted at a Tertiary-care Hospital in Uganda, A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Owachi Darius , Akatukunda Praise , Nanyanzi Diana Sarah , Katwesigye Rogers , Wanyina Shardrack , Muddu Martin , Kawuma Samuel , Kalema Nelson , Kabugo Charles , Semitala Fred C. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: Outcomes for Persons living with HIV (PLHIV) admitted to hospitals in Uganda are relatively unknown. We determined the prevalence of mortality and associated factors in PLHIV admitted at a tertiary-level public hospital in Uganda.
Methods: We used routinely collected data for PLHIV admitted at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital (KNRH) from March 2020 to March 2023 to perform a cross-sectional analysis for mortality (using proportions) and associated factors using a logistic regression model.
Results: Of the 5,827 PLHIV admitted, 3293 (56.51%) were female and the median age was 39 years (interquartile range [IQR] 31-49, range 12-98). CD4+ cell count was documented in 3,715 (63.75%) admitted PLHIV with a median count of 109 cells/µL (IQR 25-343, range 0-1,475). At admission, 3,710 (63.67%) were actively taking their antiretroviral therapy (ART), 1,144 (19.63%) had interrupted ART for more than three months and 973 (16.70%) were not on ART. Functional status impairment (measured using Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group [ECOG] score 3-4) was observed in 2,225 (38.18%) PLHIV.
Overall mortality was 26% (1,524) with a median time-to-death of 3 days (IQR 1-7, range 0-88). Factors associated with mortality included Function impairment odds ratio 7.23 (95%CI 6.31-8.29; undocumented CD4+ cell count 1.53 (95%CI 1.33-1.76, P<0.001); distance >20 Km from hospital 1.21 (95%CI 1.03-1.43, P=0.024); ART interruption 1.34 (95%CI 1.14-1.59; P<0.001); being male 1.16 (95%CI 1.02-1.32, P=0.029); severe malnutrition 1.81 (95%CI 1.51-2.16; P<0.001); COVID19 disease 1.74 (95%CI 1.24-2.43; P=0.001); liver disease 1.75 (95%CI 1.35-2.28; P<0.001); kidney disease 1.64 (95%CI 1.31-2.05; P<0.001); non-opportunistic infections 1.52 (95%CI 1.30-1.77, P<0.001); and anaemia 1.25 (95%CI 1.02-1.54, P=0.034).
Conclusion: One in every four admitted PLHIV died during hospitalization. Early identification and management of associated risk factors such as ART interruption, function impairment, baseline CD4+ tests and screening for non-communicable diseases, may avert poor hospital outcomes.
Topological Elasticity in Physical Gels with Limited Valence
Authors: Fosado Yair Augusto Gutierrez , Palombo Giorgia , Weir Simon , Michieletto Davide 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Understanding the connection between a material’s microscopic network topology and its macroscopic properties is a fundamental open challenge across a wide range of physical systems. Here, we investigate the elasticity of DNA nanostar hydrogels – a model system for networks with limited valence – by coupling rheology measurements, confocal imaging and molecular dynamics simulations. We discover that these networks display a large degree of interpenetration and that loops within the network are topologically linked, forming a percolating network-within-network structure. Strikingly, we discover that the onset of topological links between shortest loops fully determines the elasticity of these physical gels. We thus argue that the elasticity of limited valence gels is not dictated by their fractal microstructure, but by the topology of looped motifs. Our findings highlight the emergence of “topological elasticity” as a previously overlooked mechanism in generic network-forming liquids and physical gels and will inspire the design of topologically-controllable material behaviours.
Measuring Hazard-Free Improved Shelter across the Regions of India
Authors: Sarif Nawaj , K A.H. Sruthi Anil , Barman Papai , Rana MD. Juel , Saha Sunil 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Global climate change poses an increasingly dire threat to habitats, livelihoods, and communities worldwide. In this study, we have tried to examine the state of improved shelter facilities in India, utilizing the methodology outlined by UN-Habitat. The findings of our research alarm that over one-third of India's population lacks access to adequate shelter. Moreover, a significant disparity in the availability of improved shelter facilities is observed across various states in India. In regions prone to hazards such as floods and earthquakes, there is a considerable lag in terms of improved shelter provisions. On the other hand, non-hazardous areas demonstrate relatively higher rates of access to improved shelter. Our study reveals a marked distinction between improved shelter and hazard-free improved shelter estimates. Merely two out of every five households in India can be considered safe from the perils of floods, landslides, and earthquakes. However, the situation is considerably worse in rural areas, where both improved shelter and hazard-free improved shelter are scarce. This highlights the urgent need to adopt hazard-free improved shelter as a more refined metric for housing, as it can prove instrumental in guiding effective planning and policymaking initiatives. To ensure a risk-free living environment for future generations, it is imperative to undertake micro-level vulnerability mapping and conduct comprehensive risk assessments for various hazards. Furthermore, the government must take proactive measures to promote resilient housing infrastructure as a crucial component of sustainable development.
Aucan affects autophagy induced apoptosis of glioma cells via regulating EGLN1
Authors: Wang Feng , Xu Jing , Bao Machicheng , He Xiaoqiong , Liu Jia 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
C18H17NO6(Aucan) is derived from a special plant in Yunnan Province, Lichen Lethariella cladonioides, which is also a traditional medicine in Yunnan Province. A novel natural anticancer active molecule obtained from chloroform extract of leaf moth (Lethariella cladonioides) by utilizing photochemical techniques (patent No. 201710388136.8). Has certain curative effect on glioma. Choosing Aucan treated human U251 and LN229 glioma cell lines, CCK-8 assay was used to detect IC50 of Aucan, MTT assay, Colony formation assay, Flow cytometry, Wound healing assay and Transwell experiment were used to evaluate the effects of Aucan on proliferation, migration and apoptosis of glioma cells. The effect of Aucan on glioma was studied by constructing subcutaneous tumor formation model in nude mice and obtaining relevant data such as image, tumor volume and survival time. The molecular target of Aucan affecting glioma was searched through network pharmacology, and EGLN1 was found to be the key gene. Aucan can affect the proliferation and migration of glioma cells, inhibit the growth of glioma and improve the survival rate of nude mice. Bioinformatics analysis found that EGLN1 was associated with autophagy and apoptosis. qPCR detected significant expression of EGLN1 in glioma tissue and glioma cells, and the expression of EGLN1 in glioma cells decreased after Aucan treatment. The experimental results showed that EGLN1 did affect the occurrence of glioma autophagy, and Aucan also induced apoptosis of glioma cells by affecting autophagy. The results of this study indicate that Aucan can affect autophagy induced apoptosis of glioma cells via regulating EGLN1, thus affecting the occurrence and development of tumors.
Role of Critical Stress in Quantifying the Magnitude of Fluid-Injection Triggered Earthquakes
Authors: Yu Jiayi , Eijsink Agathe , Marone Chris , Riviere Jacques , Shokouhi Parisa , Elsworth Derek 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Understanding and mitigating fluid-injection-induced-seismicity is a key need in the routine implementation of net-zero-carbon energy (CCS, geothermal) and other industrial operations (hydraulic fracturing, subsurface wastewater disposal). We directly constrain the impact of pre-existing critical stresses on the relation linking seismic moment to injection volume. We report shear reactivation experiments on laboratory faults triggered by fluid pressurization. Experiments are conducted under both zero-displacement and constant shear stress boundary conditions – differentiating the role of stress relaxation during fault slip. Both are shown capable of linking event magnitude (\(M\)) with injected volume (\({\Delta }V\)) and fault pre-stress. Injection response defines two discrete and linear stages in \(M-{\Delta }V\)space linked by a discrete up-step. The first limb (stage) represents the elastic deformation of the fault, the vertical up-step its reactivation and the second limb the rupture response as incremented sliding. Faults loaded to different pre-stress identify and quantify the controlling role of pre-existing shear stress in conditioning event magnitude. Laboratory results are readily explained by a model that considers the pre-existing stress state in the rupture of a rigid fault with slip limited to the zone of pressurization. This cumulative moment is defined as \(M=\frac{c}{1-c}G{\Delta }V\) with c defining the proportion of the static stress drop already applied by tectonic stressing, alternatively viewed as the proximity to failure. The model and confirmatory laboratory observations explain the occurrence of triggered earthquakes at EGS sites significantly larger than expected based on previous models relative to injection volumes.
Autophagy regulates the maturation of hematopoietic precursors in the embryo
Authors: Liu Yumin , Shi Linjuan , Chen Yifan , Luo Sifan , Chen Yuehang , Chen Hongtian , Lan Wenlang , Lu Xun , Cao Zhan , Ye Zehua , Li Jinping , Yu Bo , Dzierzak Elaine , Li Zhuan 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The ability to generate hematopoietic stem cells(HSC) in vitro is advancing as a powerful resource for the treatment of blood diseases. An understanding of the mechanisms regulating HSC development in the embryo would facilitate the achievement of this goal. The aorta-gonad-mesonephros(AGM) region is the site of HSC production in the embryo. As these cells are formed from hemogenic endothelial cells(HEC) and appear as hematopoietic clusters on the lumenal side of the aorta. While several distinct regulators are known to be involved in this process, it is not yet known whether macroautophagy(autophagy) plays a role in hematopoietic development in the pre-liver stage of embryo development. Here, by using the LC3-RFP-EGFP autophagy reporter mouse model, we show that different states of autophagy exist in hematopoietic precursors, and correlate with hematopoietic potential. Deficiency of the autophagy-related gene(Atg) 5 specifically in endothelial cells disrupted endothelial cell to hematopoietic transition(EHT), by blocking the fusion between autophagosome and lysosome. Using combined approaches, including single-cell RNA-sequencing(scRNA-seq), we confirmed that Atg5 deletion interrupted the developmental temporal order of EHT to further affect the pre-HSC I maturation. The rescue experiments with in vivo analyses suggest that autophagy influenced the hemogenic potential of HEC and the formation of pre-HSC I likely via the nucleolin pathway. These findings demonstrate a vital role for autophagy in the formation/maturation of hematopoietic precursors derived from HECs.
Should undergraduate dental students perform molar root canal treatment? An observational study of procedural errors in root canal treatments
Authors: El-Ma'aita Ahmad , Mahasneh Sari , Hamandi Maryam , Al-Rabab’ah Mohammad 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Molar root canal treatment (RCT) is challenging and requires training and specific skills. Rotary instrumentation (RI) reduced the time needed for instrumentation but may increase the risk of certain procedural errors. The aims of this study were to assess the quality of molar RCTs provided by undergraduate students, to compare the incidence of procedural errors following manual and RI, and to report on the students’ perspective on performing this treatment.
Methods
Molar RCTs performed by the final year students in 2022 were evaluated radiographically according to predefined criteria. Treatment details, procedural errors and the overall treatment quality were recorded as well as the students’ perception of the treatments provided. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-squared test were used to detect any statistically significant differences.
Results
60.5% of RCTs were insufficient. RI resulted in more sufficient treatments (48.6% vs 30% for manual instrumentation (MI), X2: 7.39, p = 0.007), required fewer visits to complete (2.9 vs 4.6 for MI, X2: 67.23, p < 0.001) and was the preferred technique by 93.1% of students. The most common procedural errors were underextension of the root canal obturation (48.4%), insufficient obturation (45.5%) and improper coronal seal (35.2%) without a significant difference between the two groups. Overextension and canal transportation were more frequently seen with MI. 26.4% of the participants were not confident to perform molar RCT without supervision.
Conclusion
Molar RCT is a technically demanding procedure and might require training beyond the level of undergraduate education. RI partially improved the quality of RCT compared with MI.
ZEPPI: proteome-scale sequence-based evaluation of protein-protein interaction models
Authors: Honig Barry , Zhao Haiqing , Murray Diana , Petrey Donald 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
We introduce ZEPPI (Z-score Evaluation of Protein-Protein Interfaces), a framework to evaluate structural models of a complex based on sequence co-evolution and conservation involving residues in protein-protein interfaces. The ZEPPI score is calculated by comparing metrics for an interface to those obtained from randomly chosen residues. Since contacting residues are defined by the structural model, this obviates the need to account for indirect interactions. Further, although ZEPPI relies on species-paired multiple sequence alignments, its focus on interfacial residues allows it to leverage quite shallow alignments. ZEPPI performance is evaluated through applications to experimentally determined complexes and to decoys from the CASP-CAPRI experiment. ZEPPI can be implemented on a proteome-wide scale as evidenced by calculations on millions of structural models of dimeric complexes in the E. coli and human interactomes found in the PrePPI database. A number of examples that illustrate how these tools can yield novel functional hypotheses are provided.
Birth plans : Developing a shared medical decision aid tool
Authors: GOETZ-FU M , GAUCHER L , HUISSOUD C , FOURNIERE B DE LA , DUPONT C , CORTET M 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Objective(s)

Birth plans appeared at the end of the 20th century, enabling women to express their expectations towards childbirth. This reflects a rising demand for patients to take a proactive role in their medical care. This study aimed to collaboratively develop a medical decision aid with expectant mothers to prepare them better for the events surrounding their child’s birth.

Study Design

Five topics frequently addressed in birth plans were identified by both patients’ associations, using semi-structured interview with representatives of women’s associations, and professionals, using an online poll. Focus workgroups with perinatal care professionals initially drafted items designed to guide expectant mothers in developing their birth plans and actively participating in childbirth decisions. We used a modified Delphi-consensus in three rounds to retain the most relevant items. The first two rounds engaged a multidisciplinary team of professionals, while the third involved expectant mothers from two maternity wards in Lyon, France. Items that received a rating between 3 (good value) and 4 (excellent value) on a 4-point scale by more than 75% of participants were deemed consensual. The study assessed inter-rater agreement using the Fleiss kappa score.

Results

The professional working groups proposed a total of 124 items distributed across five themes: analgesia during labour, drug administration before and during labour, events in the delivery room, initial neonatal care, and perineal protection. Ultimately, 65.3% of the initial 124 items were deemed relevant by both the experts and the expectant mothers. Notably, the most significant differences in consensus centered around analgesia and the complexity of information. Non-medicinal analgesic methods were favored by mothers-to-be but not by professionals. Conversely, detailed information on delayed chord clamping were favored by experts.

Conclusions

A modified Delphi consensus was used to create with expectant mothers a decision aid tool to help them write their birth projects, addressing five main topics that are frequently reported in the literature. We now need to test this tool in clinical practice to assess its relevance in routine obstetrics consultation.