bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of a Ketogenic Diet on the Evaluation of Biochemical and Clinical Parameters of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: a Preclinical Study
Authors: Fausto Lilian Leite , Alberti Adriano , Kades Gabriela , de Carvalho Risoní Pereira Dias , Freiberger Viviane , Ventura Leticia , Dias Paula , Zanoni Eliton Marcio , Soares Ben Hur , Dutra Matheus Luchini , Martins Daniel Fernandes , Comim Clarissa Martinelli 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the X-linked recessive progressive muscular dystrophies, characterized by progressive degeneration of skeletal muscle and multisystemic involvement, including the central nervous system (CNS). To investigate the effects of DCet on biochemical and clinical parameters in a mouse model with DMD. Methods: Young adult mice (50 days old) were fed DCet for 14 days; control groups received a standard diet for the same period. On the 14th day of exposure to diets, each mouse was submitted to memory and behavior evaluation tests. After the behavioral tests, the animals were sacrificed for biochemical evaluation of oxidative stress and levels of inflammatory biomarkers. Body weight, feed intake and BDNF levels were also evaluated. Results: mdx+DCet mice had less mass (0.2g ± 2.49) and presented memory retention (p <0.05) in relation to the control group. There was reduction of oxidative damage in muscle tissue and CNS, and significant decrease in cytokine levels (p <0.05). This protocol increased the level of hippocampal BDNF and mitochondrial respiratory complex activity in both muscle tissue and CNS, although it only decreased creatine kinase activity in the striatum.
Molecular Survey and Genetic Characterization of Hard Ticks from Chongming Island of Shanghai, China, Based on Mitochondrial Genome Fragments
Authors: Fei Si-Wei , Zhao Han-Qing , Yin Jing-Xian , Zhang Wen-Ge , Wang Li , Zhang Yan , Dong Ke , Lv Shan , Guo Xiao-Kui , Zhou Xiao-Nong , Kassegne Kokouvi 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background
Ticks have been reported across China, but information on ticks from Chongming Eco-Island of Shanghai is lacking. Understanding the distribution and genetic evolution of ticks on the island is crucial for tick-borne infection control.
Methods
Ticks were collected from eight towns and four protected areas of Chongming Island during April 2021-March 2022 and were morphologically identified under microscopy. Molecular characterization of the ticks was performed by PCR amplification and sequencing of 12S rRNA and co1 mitochondrial genes. Homology analyses with published sequences obtained from GenBank were conducted for genetic relationships based on neighbor-joining (NJ) analysis of the 12S rRNA and co1 gene loci. To assess genetic evolution, intraspecific and interspecific genetic distances and barcoding gap were assessed based on NJ-K2P analysis of the 12S rRNA locus. Furthermore, genetic diversity and neutrality tests were performed on 12S rRNA sequences.
Results
A total of 1417/1933 ticks were successfully amplified by PCR of the 12S rRNA and co1 loci. Sequencing and homology analyses revealed four species of ticks, including Haemaphysalis flava (1376/1417 [97.11%], Ha. longicornis (37/1417 [2.61%]), Ha. doenitzi (3/1417 [0.21%]), and Ha. japonica (1/1417 [0.07%]). The intraspecies identity was 100% for Ha. longicornis, 99.11% for doenitzi, and 96.17%, while Ha. japonica had 83.48% intraspecies identity. Phylogenetic analyses showed species specificity, which clustered with homologous sequences. The average K2P distances between and within the species were 0.1351 (range 0.0723–0.1960) and 0.0145 (range 0-0.0946), respectively. The maximum K2P distance within species was in Ha. japonica (0.0946), while the maximum interspecific K2P distance was 0.1960 between Ha. hystricis and Ha. japonica. Genetic diversity indices and neutrality tests revealed that Fu and Li’s D and Tajima’s D values were negative for all species (mean values − 0.9360 and − 1.0310, respectively), suggesting evidence of recent population expansion.
Conclusions
This study is the first to report the genetic characterization of ticks from Chongming Eco-Island of Shanghai. We identified four species of Haemaphysalis ticks that were genetically similar to other congeners reported in China or worldwide. The knowledge gained from this study serves as a basis to support intervention deployment for effective control of tick-borne infections.
Alteration in coracohumeral ligament and distance in people with symptoms of subcoracoid impingement
Authors: Ting Deng Siang , Yang Jing-lan , Lin Kwan-Hwa , Wang Tyng-Guey , Lin Jiu-Jenq 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background
Differentiation between subacromial impingement versus subcoracoid impingement are important for the treatment target. We evaluated the correlations between coracohumeral ligament (CHL) thickness and distance (CHD) and characterized the CHL and subscapularis (SSC) in subcoracoid impingement subjects.
Methods
An observational, cross sectional study was carried out. Twenty subcoracoid impingement subjects and age/gender matched controls were assessed in 4 different shoulder positions by ultrasonography.
Results
Moderate correlations between CHL thickness with CHD (r = 0.455 in neutral rotation, p = 0.044; r = 0.483 in interior rotation, p = 0.031) were found in subacromial subjects. Subcoracoid impingement subjects had greater CHL thickness (difference = 0.3 mm, effect size = 0.85, p = 0.006), SSC tendon thickness (difference = 0.7 mm, effect size = 0.92, p = 0.01) and SSC/CHD occupation ratio (difference = 8%, effect size = 0.95, p = 0.005) compared with the control.
Conclusions
Coracohumeral distance is related to ligament thickness, especially in subacromial impingement subjects. Increased CHL and SSC thickness as well as decreased SSC/CHD occupation ratio are characterized in subcoracoid impingement subjects. These quantitative measurements can be useful in identifying patients at risk of subcoracoid impingement from subacromial impingement.
"I've got a spring in my step" a qualitative study on participants experience of action observation therapy and eccentric exercises, a telehealth study for mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy
Authors: Ryan Deirdre , Rio Ebonie , O'Donoghue Gráinne , O'Sullivan Cliona 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: Quantitative research has dominated the field of Achilles Tendinopathy (AT). The use of qualitative research allows in-depth exploration of participants’ perspectives, offering great insight in the evaluation of a trial’s processes, particularly when exploring a novel intervention such as Action Observation Therapy (AOT) combined with eccentric exercises which has not been previously researched.Objective: This study aimed to qualitatively explore participants experiences of partaking in a telehealth study including the acceptability of the intervention, motivators for participation, and perspectives on the trial processes. Method: A thematic analysis as guided by Braun and Clarke was used to analyse the semi-structured interviews. The study adhered to the criteria for reporting qualitative research guidelines (COREQ).Results/Discussion: Sixteen participants were interviewed. The five themes identified were: (i) The impact of AT is commonly not prioritised with The acceptance and minimisation of pain as a sub-theme (ii) Therapeutic alliance has the greatest impact on support (iii) Factors which influenced adherence (iv) AOT is valued and recommended (v) Recommendations for future interventionsConclusion: This study provides insightful recommendations around; exploring the use of AOT in AT, the relative importance of therapeutic alliance rather than mode of therapy delivery, and that people with AT may not prioritise health seeking for this condition.
Ecofriendly Bioremediation of Water: Repurposed Macroalgae Removes Eliminates and Neutralizes Heavy Metals
Authors: Dong Jessie Sage , Yung Maxx 
Published: August 2022

Abstract

As pollutant contamination in water becomes more and more common, the adverse effects of water pollution is increasingly perceptible, as demonstrated by the destruction of various aquatic ecosystems and pollutant-caused illnesses in humans. Thus, it is pertinent to discover a cost-effective and efficient method that is able to reduce concentrations of water-based pollutants. Current systems in place to remove heavy metal contaminants from the water include chemical chelation, coagulation, and ion exchange, but each have their own pitfalls and are all relatively expensive. Previous research has demonstrated that specific species of seaweeds can absorb water-based pollutants; however, there are limited studies that have tested whether certain species of seaweeds can naturally metabolize and thus neutralize such pollutants after being absorbed. Therefore, this study aims to study the seaweed Sargassum and its ability to metabolize and neutralize iron, a common heavy metal water-based pollutant. Sargassum seaweed was cultured with and without iron, and at varying concentrations of iron, for two weeks to allow for Sargassum growth and thus absorption of the iron. A brine shrimp lethality bioassay was used to compare the cytotoxicity of the water treated with Sargassum against water untreated with Sargassum, thus indirectly measuring relative iron toxicity and concentration. Artemia cysts were put into 24 well plates, and the hatch rate and survival rate of Artemia was calculated in 12-hour increments up to the 48 hour mark. The brine shrimp lethality bioassay demonstrated that Artemia within Sargassum treated water have an increased hatch rate and survival rate compared to Artemia within water untreated with Sargassum. Artemia fed with Sargassum also demonstrated similar survival rates as Artemia within Sargassum treated water. This indicates that Sargassum can absorb iron contaminants from the water and naturally metabolize the iron into a non-toxic form. As Sargassum is readily cheap to obtain and grow, Sargassum serves as a promising cost-effective and efficient alternative to conventional methods of water-based pollutant absorption.
Characterization of a Novel Rabbit Model of Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Mauney Joshua , Gundogdu Gokhan , Nguyen Travis , Namasivayam Aarthi , Starek Stephanie , Gelman Joel 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a debilitating pathology which is associated with penile curvature and erectile dysfunction due to the formation of fibrotic plaques in the penile tunica albuginea. In the present study, we developed a novel rabbit model of PD via subtunical injection of recombinant transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 protein and characterized erectile function and histopathological endpoints following plaque formation. Ten adult male, New Zealand white rabbits were randomized into 3 experimental groups including nonsurgical controls (NSC, N = 3) and those receiving subtunical injections of vehicle (N = 3) or TGF-β1 protein (N = 4). Following 1 month post-op, focal fibrous plaques composed of disorganized collagen type I and III bundles as well as fragmented elastin fibers at TGF-β1 injection sites were observed in contrast to control groups. Cavernosometric and cavernosographic evaluations revealed no significant differences in maximum intracorporal pressures or substantial curvature during papaverine-induced erection in either the vehicle or TGF-β1 cohorts. Immunohistochemical and histomorphometric analyses demonstrated significant increases in elastase 2B expression in TGF-β1-induced plaques as well as significant declines in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and − 9 expression relative to control levels. Our results demonstrate that PD-like fibrotic plaques can be created in the rabbit penile tunica albuginea following TGF-β1 injection.
3D Printing of Unsupported Multi-Scale and Large-Span Ceramic via Near-Infrared Assisted Direct Ink Writing
Authors: Zhao Yongqin , Zhu Junzhe , He Wangyan , Liu Yu , Sang Xinxin , Liu Ren 
Published: August 2022

AbstractAuxiliary supports are commonly introduced to avoid collapse in three-dimensional (3D) ceramic printing with low-angle structures, which could bring concerns of complex process and unsatisfying material utilization, limiting the improvements of printing efficiency. To overcome this limitation, this paper presents a simple ceramic printing method, which realizes printing of unsupported multi-scale and large-span ceramics through the combination of direct ink writing (DIW) and up-conversion particles-assisted photopolymerization (UCAP) process under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. This printing technology enables in-situ curing of multi-scale filaments with diameters ranging from 410 µm to 3.50 mm, and successfully constructed ceramic structures of torsion spring, three-dimensional bending and cantilever beam through unsupported printing. This method will bring more innovation space to the high-throughput and unsupported 3D manufacturing of complex shape ceramics.
Peptide and Protein Cysteine Modification by Virtue of Highly Chemo-, Regio- and Stereoselective Hydrosulfuration of Ynamide
Authors: Wang Changliu , Zhao Zhenguang , Ghadir Reem , Ding Zhe , Cao Yuan , Li Yuqing , Qiu Frank , Zhang Yujie , Zhao Yongli , Metanis Norman , Zhao Junfeng 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Chemoselective modification of peptides and proteins has wide applications in chemical biology and pharmaceutical development. A highly efficient chemo-, regio- and stereoselective hydrosulfuration of ynamide was developed and identified as an efficient strategy for peptides and proteins Cys modification. It proceeded efficiently in a slightly basic aqueous conditions (pH 8) to provide exclusively the Z-isomer of the corresponding conjugates with superior stability. All the reactive peptide side chain functional groups such as amino, carboxyl, primary amide, and hydroxyl groups, as well as the unprotected imidazole and indole NH are compatible. This method displayed a broad substrate scope including linear and cyclic peptides, proteins and antibody. The potential application of this method in peptide and protein chemical biology was further exemplified by Cys-bioconjugation with ynamides containing functional molecules including small molecular drugs, fluorescent and affinity tags. In addition, this strategy was also compatible with click chemistry (performed in one-pot), which remarkably extended its application. Furthermore, the chemoselective biotinylation of ubiquitin(G47C) variant with a biotinylated ynamide, as well as the regioselective modification of Cys14 and Cys38 in bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor (BPTI), Cys34 of BSA and the antibody (Trastuzumab), could be accomplished readily without perturbation of the other disulfide bonds. This method offered a novel and robust platform for peptides and proteins Cys modification and opened new horizons for the production of peptide/protein/antibody-drug conjugates.
Strategic leader attributes for clinical leaders in an HIV healthcare system: Perspectives of healthcare providers in AMPATH clinic, at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret,Kenya
Authors: Cherop Felishana , Wachira Juddy , Korir Michael , Bagire Vincent 
Published: August 2022

Abstract

Background Healthcare institutions strive for better healthcare systems with clinical leaders to provide excellent patient care. However, there is paucity in the literature on what strategic leader attributes should clinical leaders have to perform clinical and leadership functions in an HIV health system. Methods We explored healthcare providers' perceptions regarding the strategic leader attributes of clinical leaders in AMPATH-Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret Kenya. We conducted (n = 22) in-depth interviews with healthcare providers including clinical officers, nurses, social workers, counselors, retention officers, and, pharmacists who were purposively sampled from the AMPATH-MTRH HIV facility between September 2019 to May 2020. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach. Results The findings identified 4 domains of strategic clinical leader attributes.Training and expertise: clinical competence, informed, and knowledgeable.Personality traits: team leader, trustworthy, honest and integrity, flexible and swift, impartial and mentor.Interpersonal skills: approachable, good listener and understanding, good communication skills, good relationship, interaction, and respect.Managerial traits: good planner, accountable, disciplined, dedicated and hardworking, innovative, problem-solver, organized, and vocal. Conclusion Clinical leaders require strategic leader attributes to lead HIV health systems, manage patient dynamics and provide excellent HIV care. The leadership and management of the HIV facility should develop the capacities of the clinical leaders to a more strategic leadership approach so that they become dynamic and responsive in their leadership and clinical roles.
Angiotensin blockade enhances motivational reward learning via enhancing striatal prediction error signaling and frontostriatal communication
Authors: Becker Benjamin , Xu Ting , Zhou Xinqi , Kanen Jonathan , Wang Lan , Li Jialin , Chen Zhiyi , Zhang Ran , Jiao Guojuan , Zhou Feng , Zhao Weihua , Yao Shuxia 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Adaptive human learning utilizes reward prediction errors (RPEs) that scale the differences between expected and actual outcomes to optimize future choices. Depression has been linked with biased RPE signaling and an exaggerated impact of negative outcomes on learning which may promote amotivation and anhedonia. The present proof-of-concept study combined computational modelling and multivariate decoding with neuroimaging to determine the influence of the selective competitive angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist losartan on learning from positive or negative outcomes and the underlying neural mechanisms in healthy humans. In a double-blind, between-subjects, placebo-controlled pharmaco-fMRI experiment, 61 healthy male participants (losartan, n = 30; placebo, n = 31) underwent a probabilistic selection reinforcement learning task incorporating a learning and transfer phase. Losartan improved choice accuracy for the hardest stimulus pair via increasing expected value sensitivity towards the rewarding stimulus relative to the placebo group during learning. Computational modelling revealed that losartan reduced the learning rate for negative outcomes and increased exploitatory choice behaviors while preserving learning for positive outcomes. These behavioral patterns were paralleled on the neural level by increased RPE signaling in orbitofrontal-striatal regions and enhanced positive outcome representations in the ventral striatum (VS) following losartan. In the transfer phase, losartan accelerated response times and enhanced VS functional connectivity with left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex when approaching maximum rewards. These findings elucidate the potential of losartan to reduce the impact of negative outcomes during learning and subsequently facilitate motivational approach towards maximum rewards in the transfer of learning. This may indicate a promising therapeutic mechanism to normalize distorted reward learning and fronto-striatal functioning in depression.
Genomic Insights of Bruneian Malays
Authors: Azmi Mirza , Chen Lie , Idris Adi , Abdullah Muhammad Syafiq , Lu Zen H. 
Published: August 2022

Abstract
Background: The Malays and their many sub-ethnic groups collectively make up one of the largest population groups in Southeast Asia. However, their genomes, especially those from the nation of Brunei, remain very much underrepresented and understudied. Results: Here, we analysed the publicly available whole genome sequencing and genotyping data of two and 39 Bruneian Malay individuals, respectively. Next generation sequencing reads from the two individuals were first mapped against the GRCh38 human reference genome and their variants called. Of the total ~5.28 million short nucleotide variants and indels identified, ~217K of them were found to be novel; with some predicted to be deleterious and associated with risk factors of common non-communicable diseases in Brunei. Unmapped reads were next mapped against the recently reported novel Chinese and Japanese genomic contigs and de novo assembled. ~227 Kbp genomic sequences missing in GRCh38 and a partial open reading frame encoding a potential novel small zinc finger protein were successfully discovered. Although the Malays in Brunei, Singapore and Malaysia share >83% common genetic variants, principal component and admixture analysis looking into the genetic structure of the local Malays and other Asian population groups suggested that they are genetically closer to some Filipino ethnic groups than the Malays in Malaysia and Singapore.Conclusions: Taken together, our work provides the first comprehensive insight into the genomes of the Bruneian Malay population.
Concordance rate amongst electronic databases regarded the information on potential drug interactions between warfarin and antimicrobials: a descriptive analysis
Authors: Meregalli Rosana Thalia , Pizzol Tatiane da Silva Dal , de Oliveira Luciana Mello 
Published: August 2022

Abstract

Background: Although not always avoidable, drug-drug interaction (DDI) is an example of a predictable adverse event. Warfarin is a narrow therapeutic window oral anticoagulant that has been described to interact with antimicrobials (AM), affecting therapy efficacy and/or safety of anticoagulant and/or antimicrobial treatment. Aim: To evaluate the intrarater agreement on information about potential DDI between warfarin and AM present in the Municipal Essential Medicines List of Porto Alegre (REMUME/POA), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between different electronic databases (EDB). Method: This descriptive analysis evaluated the EDB UpToDate®, Drugs.com®, Medscape®, and Micromedex® on information about DDI mechanism, severity classification, and clinical management. Results: Amongst the 20 AM listed, 17 had a potential DDI with warfarin described in at least one EDB. Total agreement rate between EDB regarding classification of DDI was 30%; as for partial concordance, rates among 2 and 3 EDB were respectively 25% and 45%. Most concordant EDB were UpToDate® and Drugs.com® (85%). For mechanism of DDI, the overall concordance rate was 12%; partial agreement was 35% and 23.5% on two and three EDB, respectively. Overall agreement rate for clinical management of DDI was 18%; partial agreement between 2 and 3 EDB was 29% and 53%, respectively. Conclusion: Overall concordance rate is relatively low, considering the information obtained for the three aspects evaluated. The partial concordance rate, however, is higher, reaching 45% of the drugs with concordant DDI classification for three out of four EDB. Further studies are needed to evaluate the robustness of the evidence employed by EDB.