bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Phenotype of higher post-load insulin response as a predictor of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in the Chinese non-diabetic population
Authors: Shen Xiaoxia , He Siyao , Wang Jinping , Qian Xin , Wang Hui , Zhang Bo , Chen Yanyan , Li Hui , Li Guangwei 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Aim
This study aimed to assess whether a higher insulin response increased the long-term risk of mortality in a non-diabetic population.

Methods
A total of 446 people with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) who participated in the Da Qing Diabetes Study, were stratified into quartiles subgroups according to their baseline insulin area under the curve (AUC) during oral glucose tolerance test, defined as Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4. The participants were followed from 1986 to 2016 to assess the risk of death in association with the magnitude of post-load insulin response.

Results
Over 30 years, the rates of all cause death were 9.94, 14.81, 15.02, and 17.58 per 1000 person-years across the four groups respectively. The rate for cardiovascular disease (CVD) death was 5.14, 6.50, 6.80 and 10.47 per 1000 person-years. Compared with Q1, the risk of all-cause death was significantly higher in participants in Q4 (HR = 2.14, 95% CI 1.34–3.42), Q3 (HR = 1.94, 95% CI 1.20–3.14), and Q2 group (HR = 1.70, 95% CI 1.06–2.74). In the Fine-Gray model with non-CVD death as competing risk, the increased insulin AUC were also significantly associated with the CVD death (Q4 vs Q1, HR = 2.04, 95% CI 1.10–3.79). In the fractional polynomial regression analysis, a nonlinear association between insulin AUC and all-cause and CVD death was demonstrated. In addition, insulin AUC was associated with a progressively higher risk of all-cause death and CVD death (fractional power 3, P < 0.001).

Conclusion
A higher post-load insulin response was significantly associated with a long-term increased risk of all-cause and CVD deaths in the Chinese non-diabetic population. It suggests that people featured by this phenotype is a potential important target for further intervention.
Transcriptome analysis of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto protoscoleces reveals differences in immune modulation gene expression between cysts found in cattle and sheep
Authors: Pereira Ismael , Hidalgo Christian , Stoore Caroll , Baquedano María Soledad , Cabezas Carolina , Bastías Macarena , Riveros Aníbal , Meneses Claudio , Cancela Martín , Ferreira Henrique Bunselmeyer , Sáenz Leonardo , Paredes Rodolfo 
Published: January 2022

AbstractCystic Echinococcosis (CE), a zoonotic parasitic disease, is caused by the cestode Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato. CE inflicts severe damage in cattle, sheep, and human hosts worldwide. Fertile CE cysts are characterized by the presence of viable protoscoleces. These parasite forms are studied with minimal contamination with host molecules. Hosts, cattle and sheep, show differences in their CE cyst fertility. The effect of the host in protoscolex transcriptome is not known. We genotyped and performed transcriptomic analysis on sheep protoscoleces obtained from liver and lung CE cysts. The transcriptomic data of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto protoscoleces from 6 lung CE cysts and 6 liver CE cysts were Collected. For host comparison analysis, 4 raw data files belonging to Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto protoscoleces from cattle liver CE cysts were obtained from the NCBI SRA database. Principal component and differential expression analysis did not reveal any statistical differences between protoscoleces obtained from liver or lung cysts, either within the same sheep or different sheep hosts. Conversely, there are significant differences between cattle and sheep protoscolex samples. We found differential expression of immune-related genes. In cattle, 7 genes were upregulated in protoscoleces from liver cysts. In sheep, 3 genes were upregulated in protoscoleces from liver and lung CE cysts. Noteworthy, are the differential expression of antigen B, tegument antigen, and arginase-2 in samples obtained from sheep CE cysts, and basigin in samples from cattle CE cysts. These findings suggest that the host species is an important factor involved in the differential expression of immune related genes, which in turn is possibly related to the fertility of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto cysts.
Application of deterministic, stochastic, and hybrid methods for cloud provider selection
Authors: de Moraes Lucas Borges , Parpinelli Rafael Stubs , Fiorese Adriano 
Published: January 2022

AbstractCloud Computing popularization inspired the emergence of many new cloud service providers. The significant number of cloud providers available drives users to complex or even impractical choice of the most suitable one to satisfy his needs without automation. The Cloud Provider Selection (CPS) problem addresses that choice. Hence, this work presents a general approach for solving the CPS problem using as selection criteria performance indicators compliant with the Cloud Service Measurement Initiative Consortium - Service Measurement Index framework (CSMIC-SMI). To accomplish that, deterministic (CPS-Matching and CPS-DEA), stochastic (Evolutionary Algorithms: CPS-GA, CPS-BDE, and CPS-DDE), and hybrid (Matching-GA, Matching-BDE, and Matching-DDE) selection optimization methods are developed and employed. The evaluation uses a synthetic database created from several real cloud provider indicator values in experiments comprising scenarios with different user needs and several cloud providers indicating that the proposed approach is appropriate for solving the cloud provider selection problem, showing promising results for a large-scale application. Particularly, comparing which approach chooses the most appropriate cloud provider the better, the hybrid one presents better results, achieving the best average hit percentage, dealing with simple and multi-cloud user requests.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in Alzheimer’s disease and its pharmaceutical potential
Authors: Gao Lina , Zhang Yun , Sterling Keenan , Song Weihong 
Published: January 2022

AbstractSynaptic abnormalities are a cardinal feature of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) that are known to arise as the disease progresses. A growing body of evidence suggests that pathological alterations to neuronal circuits and synapses may provide a mechanistic link between amyloid β (Aβ) and tau pathology and thus may serve as an obligatory relay of the cognitive impairment in AD. Brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNFs) play an important role in maintaining synaptic plasticity in learning and memory. Considering AD as a synaptic disorder, BDNF has attracted increasing attention as a potential diagnostic biomarker and a therapeutical molecule for AD. Although depletion of BDNF has been linked with Aβ accumulation, tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis, the exact mechanisms underlying the effect of impaired BDNF signaling on AD are still unknown. Here, we present an overview of how BDNF genomic structure is connected to factors that regulate BDNF signaling. We then discuss the role of BDNF in AD and the potential of BDNF-targeting therapeutics for AD.
Microstructure and Chloride Diffusion Properties of Hardened Fly Ash Cement Paste with Three-dimensional Graphene
Authors: Ying Jingwei , Xi Xiaoying 
Published: January 2022

AbstractIn this paper, the influence of three-dimensional graphene (3DG) on the microstructure and chloride diffusion properties of fly ash cement paste was investigated. 3DG accounting for 0.0–0.2% of cement mass was evenly dispersed in hardened cement paste containing fly ash by using ultrasonic and polycarboxylate superplasticizer. The microstructure of the cement paste was characterized by mercury intrusion test (MIP), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results indicate that an appropriate amount of 3DG accelerates the secondary hydration of fly ash and provides a platform for the growth of cement hydration crystals. Moreover, the hydrated crystal fills the pores, reduces the harmful porosity, and refines the pore structure. The enhanced microstructure significantly improved mechanical properties and chloride diffusion resistance of hardened fly ash cement. With the addition of 0.1% 3DG, the compressive strength increased by 31.33%, and the chloride diffusion coefficient was reduced by 49.44%. The findings are beneficial to promote the generalized application of 3DG in cement in the marine environment.
Replicating or franchising a STEM afterschool program model: core elements of programmatic integrity
Authors: Stevenson Nikolaus , Sommers Amie S. , Grandgenett Neal , Tapprich William , McQuillan Julia , Phillips Michelle , Jensen Rachael , Cutucache Christine 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Designed in 2012 with a first implementation in 2013, NE STEM 4U is a professional development program for post-secondary students/undergraduates, and serves as a source of outreach, content knowledge generation, and STEM literacy for youth in grades kindergarten through 8th grade (ages 5–14). The model empowers post-secondary students as facilitators of inquiry-based learning within the context of an out-of-school time program. This study investigated the potential for replicating or ‘franchising’ this model by evaluating on the following: (1) Is the model replicable? And, if so, (2) what core elements are necessary for program fidelity? And (3) is there a dependency on a particular setting/participant type (e.g., a more rural or urban setting)?

Results
Strategic expansion of the program to different institutional types (i.e., Research 1, Research II, and a predominantly undergraduate institution), different geographical locations (i.e., rural and urban), and with various school district partners (i.e., large and small) determined that program fidelity and replicability required 4 core elements or criteria: (i) intentional programming, (ii) staff quality, (iii) effective partnerships, and (iv) program evaluation and continuous improvement. Importantly, we examined emergent themes by each site, as well as in combination (n = 16 focus group participants, n = 12 reflection surveys). These data indicated that Flexibility (21.22%), Student Engagement (i.e., Youth) (19.53%), Classroom Management (i.e., also pertaining to youth) (19.31%), and Communication (15.71%) were the themes most referenced by the post-secondary student mentors in the NE STEM 4U program, regardless of site. Finally, the YPQA results demonstrate general replication of program quality in a “franchise” location.

Conclusions
These results highlight the core elements of the NE STEM 4U program for consideration of expansion (through strategic replication or ‘franchising’) as a possible international model. The findings and voices highlight the program’s trajectory toward success into environments that expand professional development for post-secondary students, and for delivering STEM opportunities for youth.
Understanding STEM academics’ responses and resilience to educational reform of academic roles in higher education
Authors: Ross Pauline Mary , Scanes E. , Poronnik P. , Coates H. , Locke W. 
Published: January 2022

AbstractBackgroundAcross the globe, there have been significant reforms to improve STEM education at all levels. A significant part of this has been teacher reform. While the responses and resilience of STEM teachers to educational reforms in secondary education have received significant attention, the responses and resilience of STEM teachers in higher education remains understudied. In higher education, educational reforms of academic roles have seen increasing numbers of STEM academics focussed on education. Responses of STEM academics to education reform of the academic role have some parallels with teacher resilience, but there are also potential misalignments within a culture which values and prioritises science disciplinary research. This study examined the responses of STEM academics in higher education to educational reform of the academic role using the theoretical construct of resilience and Bronfenbrenner’s socio-ecological model. This was a 2-year case study of 32 academics and senior educational leaders in higher education in STEM. Data collection included semi-structured interviews which were theme coded and inductively analysed.ResultsThe responses and resilience of STEM academics focussed on education appeared to be dependent on interactions between individual disposition in the microsystem and influences of the exosystem and the external macrosystem. Five major themes emerged about the value and quality, scholarship and expertise, progress and mobility, status and identity and community and culture of STEM academics focussed on education. The exosystem was a significant unidirectional influence on STEM academics where judgements were made concerning academic performance, awards, and promotion. Responses of senior leaders in the exosystem were influenced by the macrosystem and culture of science. Academics focussed on research, rather than education were more valued and more likely to be both financially rewarded and promoted.ConclusionDuring this pressured decade, where COVID-19 has intensified stress, more attention on the direction and reciprocal relationships in the socio-ecological model of higher education is needed in order for educational reform in higher education STEM to be effective. Resilience of STEM academics to educational reform in higher education is a dynamic quality, and the capacity to “bounce back”, learn from challenges, and realise expectations of educational reform will depend on an understanding of resilience and support of Bronfenbrenner’s spheres of influence.
Influence of noise manipulation on retention in a simulated ICU ward round: an experimental pilot study
Authors: Erne Katja , Knobel Samuel E. J. , Naef Aileen C. , Gerber Stephan M. , Fischer Tim , Mast Fred W. , Schefold Joerg C. , Zante Bjoern , Nef Tobias , Jeitziner Marie-Madlen 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Noise exposure leads to a reduction in cognitive abilities in diverse settings, however, only limited data exist examining the effects of environmental ICU noise on the cognitive performance of ICU professionals. A frequently occurring and demanding retention task in ICUs are ward rounds, which are considered key for the provision of medical care. Here, we investigate the influence of noise on information retention in a simulated ward round.

Methods
ICU professionals were exposed to a recorded, ICU ward round, simulated partly with and partly without environmental ICU noise. Ward rounds were followed by specific questions about previously provided information.

Results
56 ICU professionals (aged 26–59 years) were included. A logistic mixed model showed a reduction of 27% (P < 0.001) in the ward round test performance when participants were exposed to environmental ICU noise. Furthermore, advanced age was associated with reduced retention (− 28%, P < 0.001), questions containing important information performed better (+ 36%, P < 0.001), and higher stress led to better performance in retention (+ 24%, P = 0.01).

Conclusions
Our data showed a considerable negative influence of environmental ICU noise during a simulated ward round. Therefore, reduction of environmental ICU noise is recommended. The influence of additional factors, including stress, priorities, and demographic factors should be pursued in subsequent investigations.
Biotechnological advances for improving natural pigment production: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Lyu Xiaomei , Lyu Yan , Yu Hongwei , Chen WeiNing , Ye Lidan , Yang Ruijin 
Published: January 2022

AbstractIn current years, natural pigments are facing a fast-growing global market due to the increase of people’s awareness of health and the discovery of novel pharmacological effects of various natural pigments, e.g., carotenoids, flavonoids, and curcuminoids. However, the traditional production approaches are source-dependent and generally subject to the low contents of target pigment compounds. In order to scale-up industrial production, many efforts have been devoted to increasing pigment production from natural producers, via development of both in vitro plant cell/tissue culture systems, as well as optimization of microbial cultivation approaches. Moreover, synthetic biology has opened the door for heterologous biosynthesis of pigments via design and re-construction of novel biological modules as well as biological systems in bio-platforms. In this review, the innovative methods and strategies for optimization and engineering of both native and heterologous producers of natural pigments are comprehensively summarized. Current progress in the production of several representative high-value natural pigments is also presented; and the remaining challenges and future perspectives are discussed.
Graphical Abstract
Rapid, accurate computation of narrow-band sky radiance in the 940 nm gas absorption region using the correlated k-distribution method for sun-photometer observations
Authors: Momoi Masahiro , Irie Hitoshi , Sekiguchi Miho , Nakajima Teruyuki , Takenaka Hideaki , Miura Kazuhiko , Aoki Kazuma 
Published: January 2022

AbstractWe developed lookup tables for the correlated k-distribution (CKD) method in the 940 nm water vapor absorption region (WV-CKD), with the aim of rapid and accurate computation of narrow-band radiation around 940 nm (10,000–10,900 $${\mathrm{cm}}^{-1}$$

cm

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1

) for ground-based angular-scanning radiometer data analysis. Tables were constructed at three spectral resolutions (2, 5, and 10 $${\mathrm{cm}}^{-1}$$

cm

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1

) with quadrature values (point and weight) and numbers optimized using simulated sky radiances at ground level, which had accuracies of ≤ 0.5% for sub-bands of $$10 {\mathrm{cm}}^{-1}$$

10

cm

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1

. Although high-resolution WV-CKD requires numerous quadrature points, the number of executions of the radiative transfer model is reduced to approximately 1/46 of the number used in the line-by-line approach by our WV-CKD with a resolution of 2 $${\mathrm{cm}}^{-1}$$

cm

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1

. Furthermore, we confirmed through several simulations that WV-CKD could be used to compute radiances with various vertical profiles. The accuracy of convolved direct solar irradiance and diffuse radiance at a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 10 nm, computed with the WV-CKD, is < 0.3%. In contrast, the accuracy of convolved normalized radiance, which is the ratio of diffuse radiance to direct solar irradiance, at an FWHM of 10 nm computed with the WV-CKD is < 0.11%. This accuracy is lower than the observational uncertainty of a ground-based angular-scanning radiometer (approximately 0.5%). Finally, we applied the SKYMAP and DSRAD algorithms (Momoi et al. in Atmos Meas Tech 13:2635–2658, 2020. 10.5194/amt-13-2635-2020) to SKYNET observations (Chiba, Japan) and compared the results with microwave radiometer values. The precipitable water vapor (PWV) derived with the WV-CKD showed better agreement (correlation coefficient γ = 0.995, slope = 1.002) with observations than PWV derived with the previous CKD table (correlation coefficient γ = 0.984, slope = 0.926) by Momoi et al. (Momoi et al., Atmos Meas Tech 13:2635–2658, 2020). Through application of the WV-CKD to actual data analysis, we found that an accurate CKD table is essential for estimating PWV from sky-radiometer observations.
A case of sternal osteomyelitis during treatment with everolimus for recurrent breast cancer
Authors: Abe Kaori , Shimoda Masafumi , Yoshinami Tetsuhiro , Sota Yoshiaki , Miyake Tomohiro , Tanei Tomonori , Kagara Naofumi , Naoi Yasuto , Shimazu Kenzo 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Everolimus is a mechanistic-target-of-rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor bearing a potent antitumor effect against hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Here, we report the case of a patient with recurrent breast cancer who developed osteomyelitis during the treatment with everolimus plus exemestane.

Case presentation
A 56-year-old woman with early-stage breast cancer underwent right mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection at the age of 45. Four years after the surgery, she experienced relapse at the chest wall. Radiotherapy was performed on the chest wall, including the sternum, and denosumab was administered. After several regimens of hormonal therapies, everolimus in combination with exemestane was administered. Three months later, the patient visited our clinic because of continuous fever. A computed tomography scan showed an osteolytic change in the sternal bone with pneumomediastinum, which indicated sternal osteomyelitis. Extensive debridement followed by secondary reconstruction of the chest wall was successfully performed.

Conclusions
Everolimus may cause osteomyelitis of the affected bone as a result of tumor necrosis. Everolimus-induced osteomyelitis may be manageable by extensive debridement performed without delay.
Fertility transition in Rwanda: what does the trend in nuptiality reveal?
Authors: Muhoza Dieudonne Ndaruhuye 
Published: January 2022

AbstractRecent literature on fertility trend in Rwanda indicates that the country is undergoing a fertility transition since fertility has declined from 6.1 births to 4.2 between 2005 and 2015. According to the fertility transition theory, the decline of fertility follows change in nuptiality. In Rwanda, the trend in nuptiality pattern over the period has however not yet been investigated. This research seeks to fill that gap by describing the trend in marriage timing between 2005 and 2015 and assess the effect of education and residence on that timing. Data come from the 2005, 2010 and 2015 Rwanda Demographic and Health Surveys, women files. The study population includes all women of reproductive age, 15–49 years. The outcome variables are the proportion of women never-married and the median age at first marriage. The key independent variables are period (year), education and residence type. The study used descriptive statistics and Cox proportional hazard regression. Results indicate that, over the 10 years of study, there have been a continuing increase of the proportions of women never-married and the median ages at first marriage. Education and urbanization have been found to have a delaying effect on marriage timing. The study concludes that the observed decline in fertility is associated with the rise in age at marriage. The combined effects of increasing number of women reaching the secondary education or higher and their low risks to marry at young age, with that of progress in contraceptive use among these educated women lead to expect a continuing fertility transition.