bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A High-Performance Polymer Composite Column for Coronavirus Nucleic Acid Purification
Authors: Zarouri Akli , Barnes Aaron M. T. , Aboubakr Hamada , Novi Vinni Thekkudan , Dong Qiuchen , Nelson Andrew , Goyal Sagar , Abbas Abdennour 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Here, we report the development of a novel polymer composite (PC) purification column and kit. The performance of the PC columns was compared to conventional silica gel (SG) columns for the purification of nucleic acids from coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, in 82 clinical samples. The results shows that PC-based purification outperforms silica gel (SG)-based purification by enabling a higher sensitivity (94%), accuracy (97%), and by eliminating false positives (100% selectivity). The high selectivity is critical for efficient patient triage and resource management during pandemics. Furthermore, PC-based purification exhibits three times higher analytical precision than a commonly used SG-based nucleic acid purification thereby enabling a more accurate quantification of viral loads and higher reproducibility.
An Innovative Service for Monitoring Vehicles Emissions
Authors: Topal Abdullah Ugur , Aydinoglu Arif Cagdas , Demirel Hande 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The measurement and monitoring emissions that could be attributed to transportation are highly on demand, since transportation is generally considered as the main source of greenhouse gases. However, several barriers are apparent such as data challenges, national/regional/local emission calculations and lacking efficient tools to measure the performance and progress of counter measures. Furthermore, available open data sources, tools and software are not adequately incorporated. Within this study, in order to facilitate decision-makers on such challenges a web-based geospatial dashboard service is designed to calculate and monitor real-time vehicle emissions. The concepts and the framework is validated in five districts of Istanbul, where Istanbul is prominent with its urban transport challenges. The model, geospatial dashboard, proposed user-friendly and fit-for-purpose, is open-sourced and complies with the national spatial standards. Via utilizing the dashboard, it is possible to monitor emissions from vehicles and uncover spatial patterns with the help of interactive map and graphics. The service provided could help decision makers to perform the technically difficult monitoring process seamlessly, where policymakers could focus on combatting climate change and greenhouse gases. Additionally, the proposed service is easily adaptable to Istanbul and other cities.
Mechanism of Wharton's Jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells in promoting peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Shin Young Ho , Choi Soon Jin , Kim Jae Kwang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Warton’s jelly-derived MSCs (WJ-MSCs) play key roles to improving nerve regeneration in acellular nerve grafts (ANGs), however the mechanism of WJ-MSCs releted nerve regeneration remain unclear. This study investigated how WJ-MSCs contribute to peripheral nerve regeneration by examining immunomodulatory and paracrine effects, and differentiation potential. WJ-MSCs were isolated from umbilical cords. ANGs (control) or WJ-MSC-loaded ANGs (WJ-MSCs group) were transplanted in injury animal model. Functional recovery was evaluated by ankle angle and tetanic force measurements up to 16 weeks post-surgery. Tissue biopsies at 3, 7, and 14 days post-transplantation were used to analyze macrophage markers and interleukin (IL) levels, paracrine effects, and MSC differentiation potential by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunofluorescence staining. The WJ-MSCs group showed significantly higher ankle angle at 4 weeks and higher isometric tetanic force at 16 weeks, and increased expression of CD206 and IL10 at 7 or 14 days than the control group. Increased levels of neurotrophic and vascular growth factors were observed at 14 days. The WJ-MSCs group showed higher expression levels of S100β; however, the co-staining of human nuclei was faint. This study demonstrates that WJ-MSCs' immunomodulation and paracrine actions contribute to peripheral nerve regeneration more than their differentiation potential.
The Effect of Botulinum Toxin (Masport) Injection following Internal Urethrotomy of Bulbar Urethral Stricture: A Pilot Study
Authors: Salimi Hojat , Hosseini Jalil , Sharifian Rayka , Karkan Morteza Fallah , Namiranian Nasim , Injinari Nastaran , Basiri Elham Ahmadi , Abouei Saeid , mirjalili Alimohammad , samadaeegelehkolaee kehvar 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
The application of Botulinum toxin (Masport) in urology has a long history. We aimed to assess the effect of local Masport on improvement in patients with urethral stricture by reducing the recurrence of urethral stricture.
Methods
This pilot study conducted was a double-blind randomized clinical trial on patients suffering from urethral stricture. Finally, 28 patients were allocated to intervention and control groups. Twelve patients received intralesional injection with Masport in addition to internal urethrotomy, while sixteen patients only underwent internal urethrotomy. The Cox regression hazard model was used to evaluate the effect of treatment status on recurrence time adjusted for the age, length, and location of the stenosis, cause of the stenosis, and history of previous operations.
Results
The effect of treatment type was significant, at the 0.05 level. The past medical history and cause of urethral stricture had a significant impact on relapse-free survival. Also, the improvement in the mean scores of the EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and Q-max in the group with Masport was significantly different from the group without Masport.
Conclusion
The internal urethrotomy as well as intralesional injection of Masport has a better survival prognosis than the only underwent internal urethrotomy group. The use of Masport injection during internal urethrotomy shows improvement in the quality of life of patients and reduces the recurrence of stenosis. Therefore, it is suggested as a treatment adjunctive option for urethral stricture.
Antemortem detection of Mycobacterium bovis in nasal swabs from African rhinoceros
Authors: Dwyer Rebecca , Witte Carmel , Buss Peter , Warren Robin , Miller Michele , Goosen Wynand 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) infection has been identified in black (Diceros bicornis) and white (Ceratotherium simum) rhinoceros populations in Kruger National Park, South Africa. However, it is unknown whether M. bovis infected rhinoceros, like humans and cattle, can shed mycobacteria in respiratory secretions. Limited studies have suggested that rhinoceros with subclinical M. bovis infection may present minimal risk for transmission. However, recent advances that have improved detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) members in paucibacillary samples warranted further investigation of rhinoceros secretions. In this pilot study, nasal swab samples from 75 rhinoceros with defined infection status based on M. bovis antigen-specific interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) results were analysed by GeneXpert MTB/RIF Ultra, BACTEC™ MGIT™ and TiKa – MGIT culture. Following culture, speciation was done using targeted PCRs followed by Sanger sequencing for mycobacterial species identification, and a region of difference (RD) 4 PCR. Using these techniques, MTBC was detected in secretions from 14/64 IGRA positive rhinoceros, with viable M. bovis having been isolated in 11 cases, but in any IGRA negative rhinoceros (n = 11). This finding suggests the possibility that MTBC/M. bovis-infected rhinoceros may be a source of infection for other susceptible animals sharing the environment.
An AI-Based Long-Term Care Service System Rating Methodology Integrating Multiple Data Sources
Authors: Hsu Wen-Shin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This study aims to develop an AI-based intelligent assessment system for assistive devices and accessibility services within the context of long-term care. Utilizing supervised learning algorithms from machine learning, the system analyzes care plan content recorded by case managers and care managers to provide decision-making assistance for the selection of appropriate assistive devices and accessibility services. The system optimizes the existing one-way flow process by proactively suggesting necessary assistive support items based on care plan analysis. Artificial intelligence technology is employed to analyze the contents of care plans recorded by case managers and photo specialists, enabling the system to provide auxiliary decision-making capabilities for assistive aids and barrier-free services. Through machine learning, the activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) in the care management evaluation scale are trained, generating a dataset for predicting the Long-Term Care Case-Mix System (CMS). This predictive capability can be utilized by medical staff, individual managers in unit A, or discharge preparation managers for evaluation and planning purposes. The system's integration of AI technology assists care managers in providing more efficient and personalized care services for their clients, simultaneously reducing their burden and enhancing the overall quality of long-term care services. This research contributes to the field of long-term care by introducing an AI intelligent assessment system that improves decision-making in selecting assistive devices and accessibility services. Leveraging machine learning algorithms and analyzing care plan content, the system enhances the efficiency and personalization of care services, benefiting both care managers and clients.
Prodromal Parkinson disease signs are predicted by a whole-blood inflammatory transcriptional signature in young Pink1-/- rats
Authors: Lechner Sarah A. , Barnett David G.S. , Gammie Stephen C. , Kelm-Nelson Cynthia A. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Parkinson disease (PD) is the fastest growing neurodegenerative disease. The molecular pathology of PD in the prodromal phase is poorly understood; as such, there are no specific prognostic or diagnostic tests. A validated Pink1 genetic knockout rat was used to model early-onset and progressive PD. Male Pink1-/- rats exhibit progressive declines in ultrasonic vocalizations as well as hindlimb and forelimb motor deficits by mid-to-late adulthood. Previous RNA-sequencing work identified upregulation of genes involved in disease pathways and inflammation within the brainstem and vocal fold muscle. The purpose of this study was to identify gene pathways within the whole blood of young Pink1-/- rats (3 months of age) and to link gene expression to early acoustical changes. To accomplish this, limb motor testing (open field and cylinder tests) and ultrasonic vocalization data were collected, immediately followed by the collection of whole blood and RNA extraction. Illumina® Total RNA-Seq TruSeq platform was used to profile differential expression of genes. Statistically significant genes were identified and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis was used to construct co-expression networks and modules from the whole blood gene expression dataset as well as the open field, cylinder, and USV acoustical dataset. ENRICHR was used to identify the top up-regulated biological pathways.
Results
The data suggest that inflammation and interferon signaling upregulation in the whole blood is present during early PD. We also identified genes involved in the dysregulation of ribosomal protein and RNA processing gene expression as well as prion protein gene expression.
Conclusions
These data identified several potential blood biomarkers and pathways that may be linked to anxiety and vocalization acoustic parameters and are key candidates for future drug-repurposing work and comparison to human datasets.
Fasciola hepatica soluble antigens (FhAg) induce ovine PMN innate immune reactions and NET formation in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Caro Tamara Muñoz , Gómez-Ceruti Marcela , Silva Liliana , Gutiérrez-Expósito Daniel , Wagner Henrik , Taubert Anja , Hermosilla Carlos 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Fasciola hepatica causes liver fluke disease, a worldwide neglected and re-emerging zoonotic disease, leading to hepatitis in humans and livestock. In the pathogenesis, flukes actively migrate through liver parenchyma provoking tissue damage. Here, parasites must confront leukocytes of the innate immune system in vivo. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) are the most abundant granulocytes and first ones arriving at infection sites. PMN may display neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), consisting of nuclear DNA, decorated with histones, enzymes, and antimicrobial peptides. We investigated for the first time whether F. hepatica soluble antigens (FhAg) can also trigger NETosis and innate immune reactions in exposed ovine PMN. Thus, isolated PMN were co-cultured with FhAg and NET formation was visualized by immunofluorescence and scanning electron microscopy analyses resulting in various phenotypes with spread NETs being the most detected in vitro. In line, NETs quantification via Picogreen®-fluorometric measurements revealed induction of anchored- and cell free NETs phenotypes. Live cell 3D-holotomographic microscopy revealed degranulation of stimulated PMN at 30 min exposure to FhAg and intracellular ROS production significantly increased throughout time. Contrary, metabolic activities profiles of FhAg-exposed PMN did not significantly increase. Functional PMN chemotaxis assays showed a significant increase of PMN migration. Accordingly, in vivo histopathological analysis on F. hepatica-parasitized liver tissue sections of sheep showed multifocal infiltration of inflammatory cells within liver parenchyma, and further fluorescence microscopy analyses confirmed NETs formation in vivo. Overall, we hypothesized that NET-formation is a relevant host defence mechanism that might have a role in the pathogenesis of fasciolosis in vivo.
Autistic Adults Show Transient Cardiac Slowing in Response to Both Social and Non-Social Negative Feedback
Authors: Gurbuz Emine , Riby Deborah M , South Mikle , Hanley Mary 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Autistic people frequently experience negative judgements from non-autistic people, often fuelled by misconceptions that autistic people lack empathy. Understanding responses to negative social judgement among autistic people is crucial because of the potential negative impact on wellbeing and future interactions. We investigated behavioural and psychophysiological indices of social rejection in 20 autistic (AUT; 11 males) and 40 non-autistic (N-AUT; 21 males) university students. Participants completed the Social Judgement Task (SJT) where they predicted whether they were liked by another person, then received feedback on whether those evaluations were correct. Participants also completed an Age Judgement Task (AJT) where they estimated the age of the pictured person. The AUT group had lower positive expectation scores, meaning less tendency to predict being liked. The N-AUT group showed a transient cardiac slowing to unexpected social rejection, supporting the role of parasympathetic nervous system in regulating social rejection. In contrast, the AUT group did not differentiate between unexpected social rejection in the SJT and general negative feedback in the AJT. In both groups, higher social anxiety predicted greater tendency to anticipate rejection from others. These findings support Milton’s double empathy theory by showing the role of non-autistic community in the experiences of autistic people.
Experiments on Phase Transition of Faraday Waves with Xantham Gum Solutions
Authors: Li Peizhao , Yu Tiancheng , Tu Xuechang , Yan Han , Wang Wei , Zhou Luqun 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Through experimentation and neural network analysis, we investigate the behavior of Faraday waves in Xantham Gum Solutions (shear-thinning non-Newtonian fluid), and Newtonian fluids for comparison, which exhibit two abrupt transitions in spatiotemporal order: onset and instability. These two transitions are characterized by power-law relationships involving driving amplitudes and frequencies, and we prove that the different power-law exponents for onset result from the contrasting contributions of surface tension and viscosity in the surface wave dispersion relation. Furthermore, we propose a phenomenological theoretical model that combines the Navier–Stokes equations with soliton theory to explain the distinct behaviors of power-law exponents for instability in both Newtonian fluids and Xantham Gum Solutions.
A novel action of insulin sensitizing drug as a potential promotor of preovulatory follicles, ovulation rate and prolificacy in sheep: the first exploratory study
Authors: Kumawat Babu Lal , Kumar Pramod , Mahla Ajit Singh , Kumar Ashok , Kumar Amit , Singh Raghvendar , Kumar Arun 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Impact of insulin-sensitizing drug metformin on preovulatory follicle (POF) turnover, ovulation rate, and prolificacy was investigated in forty-six cyclic Malpura ewes. Following estrus synchronization, the ewes were equally divided into two groups (n = 23). Treatment group (MET) received a daily oral dose of metformin at the rate of 500 mg/animal for around 12 wk, spanning five estrous cycles, as against untreated control (CON). All the ewes were bred with proven sires at the end of treatment. Ultrasonographic ovarian scans were carried out on every estrus and D 9 of each cycle to evaluate the number and diameter of POFs and corpora lutea (CL), respectively. A comprehensive assessment was conducted on circulating hormones including, estradiol, progesterone, androstenedione, and insulin as well as metabolic indicators like glucose, and lipid profile parameters. By the end of medication, the treatment showed a stimulatory effect on follicular turnover with a 53.2% (P < 0.001) rise in the number of POFs. It further elevated the ovulation rate by 67.4% (P < 0.01), with a higher proportion (χ2df1 = 10.7, P < 0.001) of ewes in MET group having multiple ovulations compared to the CON (82.6 vs. 30.4%, respectively). The proportion of ewes delivering multiple lambs was 2.9-fold higher in MET group than the CON. The plasma estradiol, insulin, glucose, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol concentrations were lower (P < 0.05) in the MET ewes than in the CON. The findings of the present study indicate that metformin can augment POF numbers, ovulation rate, and prolificacy in ewe concurrent with reduced plasma estradiol, insulin, glucose and cholesterols in MET ewes.
Beneficial effects of oral nutrition supplements on the nutritional status and physical performance of older nursing home residents at risk of malnutrition
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsiu , Che-Yu Lee , Chen Jiun-Rong , Ding Min-Yu , Liang Feng-Qi , Yang Suh Ching 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of nutritional supplement drinks (NSDs) and nutritional education (NE) on the nutritional status and physical performance in older nursing home residents who were at risk of malnutrition.
DESIGN: This study was a clustered, randomized, parallel, multi-center clinical trial.
SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: In total, 107 participants at risk of malnutrition were recruited from several nursing homes in this study. Participants aged more than 65 years were divided into two groups: an NE group (n=50) and an NSD group (n=57). Participants in the NE group were given NE by a dietitian, whereas in addition to NE, the NSD group was provided with two packs of NSD (Mei Balance, Meiji Holdings, Tokyo, Japan) per day as a snack between meals and before bed.
MEASUREMENTS: Anthropometric data, blood pressure, nutritional status, blood biochemical biomarkers and physical activity were measured before and after 12-week interventions.
Results: After 12 weeks of the NSD intervention, body weight, body-mass index, the mini nutritional assessment-short form (MNA-SF) score, walking speed, and SF-36 questionnaire score had improved. Moreover, the NSD intervention wasmore effective than the NE intervention alone in improving the body composition, walking speed, MNA-SF score, study of osteoporotic fractures, and SF-36 questionnaire scores in older nursing home residents at risk of malnutrition.
CONCLUSIONS: The oral nutritional supplementwas more effective than NE intervention on improving the nutritional status and physical activity in older nursing home residents who were at risk of malnutrition.
InterDILI: interpretable prediction of drug-induced liver injury through permutation feature importance and attention mechanism
Authors: Lee Soyeon , Yoo Sunyong 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Safety is one of the important factors constraining the distribution of clinical drugs on the market. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is the leading cause of safety problems produced by drug side effects. Therefore, the DILI risk of approved drugs and potential drug candidates should be assessed. Currently, in vivo and in vitro methods are used to test DILI risk, but both methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive. To overcome these problems, many in silico methods for DILI prediction have been suggested. Previous studies have shown that DILI prediction models can be utilized as prescreening tools, and they achieved a good performance. However, there are still limitations in interpreting the prediction results. Therefore, this study focused on interpreting the model prediction to analyze which features could potentially cause DILI. For this, five publicly available datasets were collected to train and test the model. Then, various machine learning methods were applied using structure and physicochemical features as inputs and the DILI label as the output. The interpretation of feature importance was analyzed by recognizing the following general-to-specific patterns: i) identifying general important features of the overall DILI predictions, and ii) highlighting specific molecular substructures which were highly related to the DILI prediction for each compound. The results indicated that the model not only captured the structure and physicochemical features previously known to be related to DILI but also proposed a new DILI potential molecular substructure. The models for the DILI prediction achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of 0.88 to 0.97 and an area under the Precision-Recall curve (AUPRC) of 0.81 to 0.95. From this, we hope the proposed models can help identify the potential DILI risk of drug candidates at an early stage and offer valuable insights for drug development.