bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rise in Cyber Threats in the United States and the Need for Advanced Cyber Risk Mitigation Tools and Adequate Skills to Combat Cyber Threats
Authors: Nyame Lord , Marfo-Ahenkorah Eunice , Abrahams Abigail , Ashley-Osuzoka Joseph , Ashong Godswill , Aboagye Daniel
Published: September 2024

The United States is facing an alarming surge in cyberattacks, with data breaches rising by 72% since 2021, presenting grave national security risks. Notable incidents, including Chinese hackers attempting to access high-level government information and Iranian-linked cyber groups targeting U.S. water systems, highlight the fragility of critical infrastructure. These attacks pose dangers not only to national security but also to economic stability and public health, amplified by the rapid growth of interconnected technologies and global digitalization. In response to these escalating threats, the U.S. must take a multifaceted approach. Key strategies include strengthening cybersecurity education and workforce development, enforcing more rigorous regulatory frameworks, and enhancing preparedness through incident response and recovery planning. Additionally, increased international cooperation is essential to address state-sponsored cyber threats and foster a global framework for cybersecurity defense. As cyber threats continue to evolve, future efforts will rely on technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) for real-time threat detection, the adoption of zero-trust security models, and the development of adaptive, resilient cybersecurity infrastructures. Collaboration between the public and private sectors, coupled with ongoing innovation and education, will be critical to maintaining national security and promoting economic growth in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape.
Outcomes of Obese Patients Undergoing Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Uvodich Mason E. , Dugdale Evan M. , Pagnano Mark W. , Berry Daniel J. , Abdel Matthew P. , Bedard Nicholas A.
Published: September 2024

Background:

The rates of obesity among patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have substantially increased. In addition, obesity is a well-established risk factor for complications after TKA. The purpose of this study was to analyze trends in body mass index (BMI) and complication risk among obese patients undergoing primary TKA treated at a single institution over 3 decades.

Methods:

Utilizing an institutional total joint registry, 13,919 primary TKAs performed to treat osteoarthritis between 1990 and 2019 were identified. Patients were stratified by BMI according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification into 3 groups: non-obese (BMI, <30 kg/m2), WHO Class-I and II obese (BMI, 30 to 39.9 kg/m2), and WHO Class-III obese (BMI, ≥40 kg/m2). Trends in BMI and survivorship free from reoperation, revision, and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) were analyzed over time while controlling for age, sex, and the Charlson Comorbidity Index.

Results:

Over the study period, there was a 90% increase in the prevalence of Class-II obesity (13% to 25%) and a 300% increase in Class-III obesity (3% to 12%). Analysis of the entire cohort demonstrated a decrease in the 2-year risk of any reoperation, any revision, and PJI (p < 0.05 for all) with time. The risk decreased significantly over time for non-obese patients for any reoperation (p = 0.029) and any revision (p = 0.004) and for Class-III obese patients for any reoperation (p = 0.038) and any revision (p = 0.012), but it remained stable for Class-I and II obese patients. The risk of PJI decreased from 1990 to 2019 for non-obese patients (p = 0.005), but there were no significant changes in PJI risk for any obesity group.

Conclusions:

Despite increasing rates of obesity among our patients who underwent TKA, we observed decreasing risks of reoperation, revision, and PJI over time. The risks of reoperation and revision declined among non-obese patients, remained stable for Class-I and II obese patients, and declined for Class-III obese patients. The PJI risk declined for non-obese patients over the study period, but no such decline occurred for any category of obesity. Despite the decreasing risks of reoperation and revision, further work is needed to improve PJI risk in obese patients.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Student parents and carers need graduate employability support: Recommendations for employability practitioners
Authors: McGovern Mary
Published: September 2024

Universities and their employability-related staff must address the inequities that claim diversity as a disadvantage and a barrier to securing work integrated learning and graduate employment. With increases in equity groups enrolling at university there is a need to ensure access to employability opportunities. Graduate employability should be an accolade for students however it is not accessible, and ubiquitous for all. Student parents and carers are an invisible cohort that needs to be identified, and supported with their employability as they are a significantly growing population in higher education. This provocation will present the current landscape at university and offer three recommendations: the integration of career development learning and work experiences; data-informed systems and procedures; and collaboration and research into ‘employability for inclusion.’ This is required to build staff capability and organisational capacity and prepare our future workforce that is representative of today’s society.
WITHDRAWN: A fairer way to compare researchers at any career stage and in any discipline using open-access citation data
Authors: Bradshaw Corey , Chalker Justin , Crabtree Stefani , Eijkelkamp Bart , Long John , Smith Justine , Trinajstic Kate , Weisbecker Vera
Published: September 2024

The pursuit of simple, yet fair, unbiased, and objective measures of researcher performance has occupied bibliometricians and the research community as a whole for decades. However, despite the diversity of available metrics, most are either complex to calculate or not readily applied in the most common assessment exercises (e.g., grant assessment, job applications). The ubiquity of metrics like the h-index (h papers with at least h citations) and its time-corrected variant, the m-quotient (h-index ÷ number of years publishing) therefore reflect the ease of use rather than their capacity to differentiate researchers fairly among disciplines, career stage, or gender. We address this problem here by defining an easily calculated index based on publicly available citation data (Google Scholar) that corrects for most biases and allows assessors to compare researchers at any stage of their career and from any discipline on the same scale. Our ε′-index violates fewer statistical assumptions relative to other metrics when comparing groups of researchers, and can be easily modified to remove inherent gender biases in citation data. We demonstrate the utility of the ε′-index using a sample of 480 researchers with Google Scholar profiles, stratified evenly into eight disciplines (archaeology, chemistry, ecology, evolution and development, geology, microbiology, ophthalmology, palaeontogy), three career stages (early, mid-, late-career), and two genders. We advocate the use of the ε′-index whenever assessors must compare research performance among researchers of different backgrounds, but emphasize that no single index should be used exclusively to rank researcher capability.
Hospital in-reach family-centred social prescribing pilot for children with neurodisability: mixed methods evaluation with social return on investment analysis
Authors: Gordon Laura , Hastry Megan , Bate Angela , Gordon Katie , Greaves Emily , Dimitriadou Simoni , Rapley Tim , Basu Anna Purna
Published: September 2024

Background Social prescribing (SP) link workers (LWs) support individuals to engage with community resources, co-creating achievable goals. Most schemes are community-based, targetting adults. Vulnerable populations including hospitalized children with neurodisability and their families, could also benefit from SP.Aims To pilot a hospital-initiated SP service for children with neurodisability and their families; to explore its feasibility, acceptability and undertake social return on investment (SROI) analysis.Methods Mixed-methods cohort study with SROI analysis. We recruited children aged < 16y with neurodisability, identified during inpatient stays, their parents/carers and siblings. Participants received LW support for 6 months, extending beyond hospital discharge. Pre- and post-intervention pilot data covered profile of needs (Support Star), quality of life (EQ5D/CHU-9D), wellbeing (WEMWBS/CORS) and financial strain. We undertook 22 qualitative observations of family/LW interactions and 39 in-depth interviews with families, LWs, and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Together these data were analysed within a SROI to establish the costs and social value generated.Results Of 48 families supported by the service, 25 were recruited to the evaluation (26 children, aged 10m-15y; 4 siblings; 36 parents). Baseline quality of life and wellbeing indices averaged below population norms. LWs were highly effective at supporting families (only 6/151 goals unmet). Unmet need decreased by 6 months (Support Star, p < 0.001).Trial registration ISRCTN 42100
Prospective association between breakfast consumption frequency and BMI z-score among European school-aged children. The Feel4Diabetes Study.
Authors: Manios Yannis , Kostarellou Panayiota , Anastasiou Costas , Karaglani Evangelia , Iotova Violeta , Usheva Natalya , Tankova Tsvetalina , Rurik Imre , Diakoumopoulou Evanthia , Giménez-Legarre Natalia , Moreno Luis , Lindstrom Jaana , Wikström Katja , Cardon Greet , Makrilakis Konstantinos
Published: September 2024

Background
The long-term effects of breakfast on childhood z-BMI remain inconclusive.
Objective
To prospectively assess the impact of stable and altered breakfast consumption habits on z-BMI change over two years, in school-aged children across six European countries.
Methods
Data of 6,528 children (8.2 ± 1.0 years, 48.9% male) from the Feel4Diabetes study were used. Children's lifestyle behaviors, including breakfast frequency, were assessed through parent-reported questionnaires. Weight and height were objectively measured and converted to z-BMI. Participants were categorized into trajectories combining breakfast consumption habit (i.e. regular consumption, irregular consumption or omission) at baseline and follow up. Logistic regression analyzed the prospective association between breakfast trajectories and z-BMI increase, with adjustment for demographic and lifestyle variables.
Results
A statistically signidficant effect of breakfast trajectories was observed in z-BMI, both at baseline and follow up. Stable skippers was the only trajectory that showed a significant increase in BMI z-score from baseline to follow up (0.891 ± 1.058 vs. 1.034 ± 1.072 respectively, p < 0.05). BMI z-score at follow up of regular eaters (0.615 ± 0.967) was significantly lower, compared to both irregular eaters (1.229 ± 0.890) and stable skippers (both p < 0.05).Stable regular consumption and transition from omission to regular consumption were independently associated with significantly lower risk of z-BMI gain, compared to stable omission [OR,95%CI: 0.55 (0.31,0.97), p = 0.039 and 0.43 (0.21, 0.88), p = 0.021 respectively].
Conclusion
Stable regular breakfast consumption or transition from omission to regular consumption seem to contribute to superior weight regulation in children and to independently protect against z-BMI gain, compared to stable omission. Further studies are warranted to extend the evidence on the breakfast habit-BMI association among children.
Genetic basis of alkaloid divergence in the Solanaceae
Authors: Pérez Pablo , Perez-Mesa Pablo , Pardo Ronald A. , Alseekh Saleh , Rojas-Contreras Sofía , Sierra Gina P. , García D. Estevan , Orejuela Andrés , Fernie Alisdair R. , Lopez-Kleine Liliana , Roda Federico
Published: September 2024

Plant lineages produce distinctive alkaloids, suggesting the existence of evolutionary mechanisms preventing the simultaneous metabolism of multiple alkaloid types in the same species. Tribes in the Solanaceae family produce either tropane alkaloids (TAs) or steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGAs). We integrated genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic variation across tens of species representing most Solanaceae tribes to evaluate three possible genetic causes of this mutually exclusive distribution, namely (1) loss of biosynthetic genes, (2) genomic clustering, and (3) regulatory changes. We found that both pathways are produced by multiple phylogenetic clades, suggesting that the differential loss of the biosynthetic pathways across lineages could explain their patchy distributions in the phylogeny. However, TA and SGA genes show contrasting patterns of genomic presence and distribution: SGA genes are grouped in large and dynamic biosynthetic clusters but are present across most species whereas TA genes are sparsely distributed and almost exclusively present in TA-producing species genomes. Additionally, SGA and TA genes are preferentially expressed in species that produce SGAs and TAs respectively, suggesting that expression differences were crucial for the divergence of the two pathways. Our results highlight the asymmetric significance of gene loss, genomic clustering, and gene expression differences in the divergence of TAs and SGAs.
Ordered Networked Analysis of Multimodal Data in Healthcare Simulations: Dissecting Team Communication Tactics
Authors: Zhao Linxuan , Echeverria Vanessa , Tan Yuanru , Yan Lixiang , Li Xinyu , Alfredo Riordan , Dix Samantha , Jaggard Hollie , Wotherspoon Rosie , Osborne Abra , Winter Rebecca , Shaffer David Williamson , Gašević Dragan , Martinez-Maldonado Roberto
Published: September 2024

In highly immersive, team-based healthcare simulations, students must collaborate effectively to complete open-ended learning tasks. These often require students to move among multiple locations within the physical learning space, 1 requiring the development of effective communication tactics to manage complex team dynamics and multiple concurrent dialogue segments. Analysing such distributed team dialogue using only audio data poses significant challenges as it is hard to distinguish how teams temporarily break into smaller groups. This study investigates the integration of audio and spatial data to model embodied team communication tactics in highly-dynamic healthcare simulation scenarios. We employ ordered network analysis (ONA) to examine the order of communication behaviours across coded co-located dialogue segments of teams of nursing students. We also explore the potential of ONA to enhance teaching through a qualitative assessment of its usability with teachers. Results reveal that high-performing teams employ effective team tactics by prioritising primary tasks (i.e., deteriorating patients) and performing critical tasks timely and correctly, while low-performing teams struggle to develop prioritisation tactics (i.e., focus-ing on stable patients) and with team coordination. Interviews with teachers found high-level information in ONA networks interpretable but faced challenges with sequential details and contextualisation. This research offers insights into improving team-based learning and assessment in healthcare education.
Fiscal decentralization and sustainable development in Africa: an empirical investigation from inequality
Authors: Marcel DAMA DIE , Loudi NJOYA , Philémon VOTSOMA
Published: September 2024

There is no consensus among public economists as to which of the central and local governments should perform the redistributive function. While most authors recommend the centralisation of this function (Tiebout, 1956; Musgrave, 1959; Oates, 1972, Tanzi, 1995), some (Buchanan, 1950; Pauly, 1969; Perotti, 1992) have shown that its decentralisation would be equally if not more effective. This paper analyses the effect of fiscal decentralisation on inequality in Africa over the period 2005–2018. Using a sample of 17 African countries, we estimate a panel data model using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), Fixed Effects (FE) and Generalized Moment Method (GMM) in System. Our results show that fiscal decentralization reduces environmental and housing inequalities in Africa. These results remain robust to the use of MMG. We suggest the valorisation of local policies in governance policies in Africa.
Jel code: H23, H71.
The Correlation Between Cumulative Cigarette Consumption and Infarction-Related Coronary Spasm in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction Across Different Age Groups
Authors: Kuang Zhihui , Lin Lin , Kong Ranran , Wang Zhonghua , Mao Xianjun , Xiang Dingcheng
Published: September 2024

Background: Coronary artery spasm (CAS) is a significant contributor to the pathogenesis of acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Although smoking is a well-established risk factor for CAS, the relationship between cumulative cigarette consumption and infarction-related CAS across different age groups in STEMI patients remains unclear. This study aims to investigate how age modulates this correlation.
Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of STEMI patients who underwent coronary angiography (CAG) at the General Hospital of Southern Theater Command from December 2014 to March 2018. Inclusion criteria were: patients aged 18 years or older with confirmed STEMI and CAS. Exclusion criteria included absence of CAG, significant comorbidities, and incomplete data. Patients were categorized into CAS and non-CAS groups and further stratified by age into young adults (≤45 years), middle-aged (46-59 years), and elderly (≥60 years). Cumulative cigarette consumption was assessed using the smoking index. Statistical analyses evaluated correlations between smoking and CAS by age group.
The approval for this study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of General Hospital of Southern Theater Command (2018-54). Since data were evaluated retrospectively, anonymously, and solely obtained for the study purposes, a requirement of informed consent was waived by General Hospital of Southern Theater Command ethics committee. All study methods were performed in accordance with Helsinki Declaration.
Ethical approval and consent to participate
This study was approved by the ethics committee of General Hospital of Southern Theater Command (2018-54).
Results: Of 1156 STEMI patients, 80 (6.9%) had CAS. The CAS group had a higher prevalence of young adults (35% vs. 13.8%, P < 0.001) and heavy smokers (62.5% in CAS vs. 46.6% in non-CAS, P < 0.001). Heavy smoking correlated with CAS in young adults (r = 0.321, P < 0.001) and middle-aged patients (r = 0.127, P = 0.006), but not in the elderly. Logistic regression revealed that heavy smoking significantly increased the risk of CAS, with adjusted odds ratios of 6.397 for grade 2 smokers and 6.926 for grade 3 smokers compared to non-smokers. Among heavy smokers, the risk of CAS was 4.912 times higher in young adults and 2.041 times higher in middle-aged patients compared to the elderly.
Conclusion: Cumulative cigarette consumption is positively correlated with infarction-related CAS in STEMI patients. Heavy smoking is a major risk factor for CAS, especially in young and middle-aged individuals. Effective smoking control is essential for preventing and managing STEMI, particularly among younger and middle-aged populations in China.
Bioinformatics analysis combined with experimental validation reveals the biological role of the ILK gene in prostate cancer
Authors: Yu Xiao-xiang , Liu Yi , Luo Rong-jiang , Song Zi-xuan , Chen Wen-kai , Mo Zeng-mi , Wang Feng-jing
Published: September 2024

Background
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a prevalent urological malignancy. The integrin-linked kinase (ILK) gene has been identified as an oncogenic driver in hormonal cancers, including PCa.
Methods
To identify key genes in PCa, we utilized differential gene expression analysis and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). The ILK gene was silenced using short interfering RNA (siRNA), and subsequent experiments focusing on cellular functionality were conducted to evaluate its impact on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle. We examined the expression of autophagy-related and cell cycle-related proteins, including MAP1LC3A, BECN1, C-MYC, TP53, and MDM2. Moreover, we conducted Mfuzz expression pattern clustering analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), immune function analysis, transcription factor (TF) analysis, and drug prediction.
Results
544 significant genes were identified by WGCNA. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis revealed that MYC was the central regulatory gene, with the intersected genes mainly involved in regulating cell adhesion and drug metabolism in prostate cancer (PCa). Experimental results showed LNCaP cell proliferation was significantly inhibited in the knockdown groups (P < 0.001). Moreover, ILK silencing increased apoptosis in LNCaP cells compared to normal cells and empty vectors, and transfected LNCaP cells were arrested in the S phase of the cell cycle. Notably, C-MYC expression decreased following ILK silencing. Subsequently, we further identified ILK-related regulatory biomarkers.
Conclusions
The ILK is an oncogene mainly through influencing the C-MYC in PCa. Inhibition of ILK expression would be a promising method for treating the development and progression of PCa.
Investigating the Dietary Links to Pancreatic Cancer: Case-Control Study on Dairy, Meat, and Egg Consumption
Authors: Allehdan Sabika , Ibrahim Mohammed O. , AlAwwad Narmeen , Hamdan Aya , Al-jaberi Tareq , Hushki Ahmad , Rayyan Yaser , Tayyem Reema
Published: September 2024

Data from several research showed that consumption of specific foods and nutrients are linked to the risk of pancreatic cancer, but the role of consumption of meats and diary groups in pancreatic carcinogenesis is still controversial. The main objective of this study is to investigate the association between consumption of dairy products and meats and risk of pancreatic cancer. A case-control study was conducted between March 2015 and August 2018 at four main hospitals in Jordan, one of them was an oncology center. Participants in the study were 101 cases with incident and histologically confirmed pancreatic cancer frequency matched with 314 controls. The required information for this study was gathered via questionnaires based on face-to-face interviews. An Arabic food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ) that has been validated was used to gather data on consumption of different food items of dairy and meat groups. Multinomial logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), considering potential confounders. The consumption of different levels and frequencies of yogurt, white cheese, processed cheese, red meats, and chicken was observed to increased risk of pancreatic cancer. The adjusted OR indicated that the risk of pancreatic cancer was positively associated with daily intake of yogurt (OR, 2.88 (95% CI, 1.40–5.91, P value of trend = 0.001)), cooked lamb meat (OR, 2.50 (95% CI, 1.30–4.84, P value of trend = 0.002)) and cooked veal meat (OR, 1.72 (95% CI, 1.11–3.77, P value of trend = 0.011)). Furthermore, daily and weekly consumption of white cheese, processed cheese, and cooked chicken was associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. According to the study's findings, the consumption of yogurt, white cheese, processed cheese, red meat, and chicken was associated with increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
Identification, characterization, and expression of Oryza sativa betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase genes associated with the metabolism of oxyfluorfen
Authors: Chen Zhao Jie , Wang Yi Zhuo , Lu Jun Jin , Shi Xu Zhen , Qu Ya Nan , Ai Gan , Zeng Li Qing , Wang Xiao Lu , Cheng Xi Ran , Wang Yan Hui
Published: September 2024

Betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase (BADH), a member of family 10 of the aldehyde dehydrogenase superfamily, catalyzes the second oxidation step in the biosynthesis of glycine betaine (GB), which participates in a variety of critical processes that help plants tolerate abiotic stress. Nevertheless, it is still unclear how BADH functions in rice under pesticide stress. To look at the roles that the rice BADH family plays when under pesticide stress, three BADH genes were identified in transcriptome datasets of GB + oxyfluorfen (OFF)-treated rice. Using sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis, the two subfamilies of the BADH gene family (ALDH10 and ALDH22) among rice, Arabidopsis, soybean, wheat, maize, barley, and sorghum were found. An examination of chromosomal position revealed that segmental duplication had a role in the expansion of OsBADH genes, and that the rice BADH genes were irregularly distributed on 3 of the 12 rice chromosomes. In collinearity analyses, rice BADH genes exhibited collinearity with those of wheat, maize, barley, and sorghum. The genes also showed a variety of conserved domains, cis-elements, motif compositions, and gene architectures that made it possible for them to encode different biotic and abiotic stress response proteins. Compared to the effects of OFF alone, BADH activity in rice roots and shoots increased 1.50-fold and 1.81-fold, respectively, following treatment with GB and 0.15 mg/L OFF. Analysis of protein–protein interaction networks provided more evidence for the involvement of OsBADH proteins in OFF metabolism. Overall, these findings demonstrate that BADH genes respond effectively to OFF-induced stress by producing GB, highlighting their potential roles in regulating pesticide degradation.
SERPING1, a biomarker for colorectal liver metastasis, promotes colorectal cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion
Authors: Yu Wenhao , Gu Boyuan , Huang Zhiwei , Liu Cheng , Bai Junjie , Liu Shenglu , Ren BingYu , Wang Pengru , Chen Jiatong , Sun Lei , Tan Peng , Fu Wenguang
Published: September 2024

Colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) is a major cause of mortality in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, but its precise etiology remains unclear. Identifying genes associated with CRLM and understanding their molecular mechanisms is crucial. Here, we identified SERPING1 as a hub gene causing CRLM by WGCNA, differentially expressed genes analysis and K-M survival analysis. In addition, we confirmed the high expression of SERPING1 in CRLM using human samples. Furthermore, our in vitro experiments showed that SERPING1 promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion of human CRLM cells and activates the EMT pathway in human CRLM cells. Finally, to explore the role of SERPING1 in tumour microenvironment, we performed single-cell sequencing analysis and found that SERPING1 was enriched in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and associated with immune infiltration of CAFs. Collectively, these studies identified SERPING1 as a promising target for the control of CRLM.
Cyclic Performance and Strain Characteristics of a Curved RC Shear Wall
Authors: Abdoos Hatef , Khaloo Ali Reza
Published: September 2024

Curved reinforced concrete shear walls (CRCSWs) not only are capable of offering both the stiffness and strength in any arbitrary horizontal direction, but can also fulfill some of the aesthetic and architectural requirements. Despite these advantages, a paucity of decent and in-depth investigation does exist in the literature that have examined the cyclic response of CRCSWs. Aiming to complement the existing knowledge and to highlight some particularities inherent in the cyclic performance of CRCSWs, an experimental program is established and a new loading apparatus is designed and fabricated capable of concurrently following the in-plane and out-of-plane motions. A large number of instrumentation is employed to capture the full-field measurements. Test results including the global load-deformation, onset and progression of structural damages are delineated. The findings divulge that the tested CRCSW exhibited stable performance with no evident premature strength degradation and the induced warping torsion due to intrinsic eccentricity of the centroid and shear center is largely responsible for the failure mode of the CRCSW. Detailed reconnaissance studies regarding the performance levels, and strain characteristics of the reinforcing bars and concrete surface are presented and the collected strain gauge data confirms the mechanisms of the induced damages. The inevitable effects of the longitudinal bars are highlighted in comparison with transverse bars for the response evaluation of the tested squat CRCSW. Although, the CRCSWs are utilized in practical applications, experimental evidences are scanty and it is believed that the testing program presented herein will contribute into the seismic characterization of the CRCSWs.
Local potential energy density-supramolecular energy (LPED-SME) machine learning prediction – a web application to obtain the local SME from simple inputs
Authors: Firme Caio L. , Boes Elvis S.
Published: September 2024

We developed a Flask web application that uses supervised machine learning (ML) to predict the local potential energy density (LPED) based on intermolecular and intramolecular interactions. The predictions are made from simple inputs, specifically the atomic charges of interacting atoms (using MK, ChelpG, or RESP schemes) and the interatomic distances between them. This application streamlines the process by avoiding the more complex calculations required by QTAIM topology. We optimized the size of our dataset to 53 samples, being a simple dataset with only three numerical features and no categorical features. We tested five different ML models and found that Linear Regression performed the best, achieving an R² score of 0.88, a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.72 kcal/mol·Bohr³, a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.82 kcal²/mol²·Bohr⁶, and a root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.91 kcal/mol·Bohr³. To ensure the reliability of our model, we conducted a secondary validation using a different set of input data with known LPED values. The predicted values closely matched the actual values, and the metrics from this secondary validation were similar to those from the primary testing. With this double validation, our web application is a reliable tool for obtaining LPED and local supramolecular energy (SME) from straightforward inputs. The major physical insight is the capability of the machine learning model to obtain a topologically derived information such as LPED using non-topological data.
Agroforestry's potential to buffer climate change impacts on maize yields in Dodoma, Tanzania
Authors: Siebenlist Johanna , Hampf Anna , Gornott Christoph
Published: September 2024

Agricultural productivity in the semi-arid region of central Tanzania is low and projected to further decrease due to climate change, exacerbating the already high levels of food insecurity among the population of Tanzania. Agroforestry has been suggested as an adaptation strategy due to its multiple biophysical and socio-economic benefits, but its effectiveness is site- and context specific. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the impact of climate change and agroforestry on maize yields in Dodoma, Tanzania. The process-based crop model APSIMX is used to quantify climate change impacts on maize yields at six sites in Dodoma considering different shared socio-economic pathways and periods. In addition, the effects of different levels of shading, temperature reductions from shading and the addition of biomass from trees on maize yields were analyzed. Four different indicators (climate change impact, agroforestry impact, agroforestry adaptation effect and climate change impact with adaptation) were calculated to provide a comprehensive evaluation. The simulation results indicate that climate change is likely to decrease maize yields by 23–33%, but agroforestry is found to partially mitigate this decline. The benefits of implementing agroforestry will increase in the future, providing a positive adaptation effect. A shading level of 20% was found to be most effective at reducing yield losses. However, under the high-emission scenario, the effectiveness of agroforestry in mitigating climate change impacts is simulated to decrease over time. These results highlight the urgency of climate change adaptation and demonstrate the possible benefits but also the limitations of agroforestry as an adaptation strategy under present and future climate conditions.
Multi-omics reveals the mechanism of Trimethylamine N-oxide derived from gut microbiota inducing liver fatty of dairy cows
Authors: Li Chenlei , Wang Feifei , Mao Yongxia , Ma Yanfen , Guo Yansheng
Published: September 2024

Background
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a metabolite produced by gut microbiota, and its potential impact on lipid metabolism in mammals has garnered widespread attention in the scientific community. Bovine fatty liver disease, a metabolic disorder that severely affects the health and productivity of dairy cows, poses a significant economic burden on the global dairy industry. However, the specific role and pathogenesis of TMAO in bovine fatty liver disease remain unclear, limiting our understanding and treatment of the condition. This study aims to construct a bovine fatty liver cell model and utilize an integrated approach combining transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data to investigate the molecular-level impact of TMAO on lipid metabolism and its potential regulatory mechanisms.
Results
We established an in vitro bovine fatty liver cell model and conducted a comprehensive analysis of cells treated with TMAO using high-throughput omics sequencing technologies. Bioinformatics methods were employed to delve into the regulatory effects on lipid metabolism, and several key genes were validated through RT-qPCR. Treatment with TMAO significantly affected 4,912 genes, 397 proteins, and 137 metabolites. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that the significantly altered molecules were primarily involved in pathways related to the pathology of fatty liver disease, such as metabolic pathways, insulin resistance, hepatitis B, and the AMPK signaling pathway. Moreover, through joint analysis, we further uncovered that the interaction between TMAO-mediated AMPK signaling and oxidative phosphorylation pathways might be a key mechanism promoting lipid accumulation in the liver.
Conclusions
Our study provides new insights into the role of TMAO in the pathogenesis of bovine fatty liver disease and offers a scientific basis for developing more effective treatment strategies.
The effects of different governance regimes on the social and economic growth of Pakistan
Authors: Rasool Mubashir , Hussain Zawar , Rashid Muhammad , Srithi Khaysy
Published: September 2024

Through the historical records, it is proven that the democratic system fosters public interests while the dictatorship regime mends for a single man. Both regimes have their socio-economic advantages and disadvantages in society. The social as well as economic aspects remain a matter of business for the prevailing government setup. The main objective of this research is a comparative analysis of Pakistan’s socio-economic performance in democratic as well as dictatorial regimes (1947–2012). Some economic performance measures, including life expectancy, population growth, and literacy rates, as well as GDP growth, inflation, and head count ratio (HCR), have been taken for comparative analysis to check the performance. Statistical tests assist in this comparison. Our findings show that, in general, dictatorship regimes are better democratic governments in every aspect.
A New Implementation of a Fourth-Order CESE Scheme for 3D MHD Simulations
Authors: Jiang Chaowei , Zhang Ling
Published: September 2024

This paper is devoted to the description and validation of a new implementation of a fourth-order space-time conservation-element and solution-element (CESE) scheme to numerically solve the time-dependent, three-dimensional (3D) magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations. The core of the scheme is that, with the aid of a grid staggered in space and time, the conservative variables are advanced by integration of the controlling equation in the space-time four-dimensional domain by utilizing Taylor expansion, and their spatial derivatives are computed by finite difference with $p$ order derivatives from $p-1$ order ones. The new scheme achieves fourth-order accuracy in both space and time simultaneously, using a compact stencil identical to that in the second-order CESE scheme. We provide a general framework for convenience of programming such that the scheme can be easily extended to arbitrarily higher order by including higher-order terms in the Taylor series. A suite of 3D MHD tests demonstrate that the fourth-order CESE scheme at relatively low grid resolutions can obtain reliable solution comparable to the second-order CESE scheme at four-times high resolution, and showing a very high efficiency in computing by using only around $5\%$ of the computing resources.
Inhibition of CHI3L1 decreases N-cadherin and VCAM-1 levels in glioblastoma
Authors: Rusak Agnieszka , Gąsior-Głogowska Marlena , Sargenti Azzurra , Krzyżak Edward , Kotowski Krzysztof , Mrozowska Monika , Górnicki Tomasz , Kujawa Krzysztof , Dzięgiel Piotr
Published: September 2024

(1) Background: The protein CHI3L1 supports cancer development in several ways, including stimulation of angiogenesis and invasion as well as immunomodulatory effects. These properties make it a potential target for the development of targeted therapies in precision medicine. In this context, the particular potential of CHI3L1 inhibition could be considered in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), whose tumors exhibit high levels of angiogenesis and increased CHI3L1 expression. This study aims to investigate whether inhibition of CHI3L1 in spheroids used as a GBM model affects the mechanisms of invasiveness;
(2) Methods: We analyzed the interactions between CHI3L1 and the inhibitor G721-0282 in molecular docking (in silico) and infrared spectroscopy. Uptake of G721-0282 in GBM spheroids was measured using a label-free physical cytometer. Changes in E-, N- and VE-cadherins, VCAM-1 and EGFR were analyzed by immunohistochemical reactions, Western blot and ddPCR methods in U-87 MG cells and GBM spheroids consisting of U-87 MG glioblastoma cells, HMEC-1 endothelial cells and macrophages;
(3) Results: A direct interaction between CHI3L1 and G721-0282 was observed. G721-0282 decreased N-cadherins and VCAM-1 in GBM spheroids, but the changes in the 2D model of U-87 MG glioblastoma cells were different;
(4) Conclusion: Inhibition of CHI3L1 has the potential to reduce the invasiveness of GBM tumors. The proposed 3D model of GBM spheroids is of great significance for investigating changes in membrane proteins and the tumor microenvironment.
Online Sexual Risk Behaviors in Adolescents: Roles of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Parenting Styles, and Reinforcement Sensitivity
Authors: Chou Wen-Jiun , Yen Cheng-Fang , Hsiao Ray C. , Liu Tai-Ling
Published: September 2024

Background
This study examined the associations of a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the tendencies of behavioral inhibition and activation, and parenting styles with experiences of passive and active online sexual risk behaviors.
Methods
This study invited 176 adolescents with ADHD and 173 adolescents without ADHD and their parents to participate. The parents rated their parenting styles on the Parental Bonding Instrument. The adolescents self-reported their lifelong experiences of passive and active online sexual risk behaviors and their tendencies of behavioral inhibition and activation on the Behavior Inhibition System (BIS) and Behavior Approach System (BAS) Scales. The associations of the diagnosis of ADHD, parenting styles, and BIS and BAS constructs with online sexual risk behaviors were examined usingmultivariable logistic regression analysis.
Results
In total, 114 (32.7%) participants reported any passive form of online sexual risk behaviors, and 49 (14.0%) participants reported any active online sexual risk behaviors. Older age (p= 0.007) and the fun-seeking construct of the BAS (p = 0.037) were significantly associated with passive online sexual risk behaviors. Being male (p = 0.011), older age (p < 0.001), and the fun-seeking construct of the BAS (p = 0.031) were significantly associated with active online sexual risk behaviors. The significant association between the fun-seeking seeking construct of the BAS and active online sexual risk behaviors was present in boys only.
Conclusion
High proportions of adolescents have experiences of online sexual risk behaviors. The factors related to online sexual risk behaviors should be considered in the development of intervention programs.
Notch1 sets the molecular clock for T cell development
Authors: Tussiwand Roxane , Mitrovic Mladen , Cvijetic Grozdan , Murthy Shanta , Ivanek Robert , Schreiner David , Gopalan Vishaka , Nganga Vincent , Ritz Danilo , Notarangelo Luigi , Oltz Eugene , Hannenhalli Sridhar
Published: September 2024

Notch1 signaling is instructive for T cell development, but how this single factor orchestrates commitment remains unclear. Here, by integrating multi-omics platforms, we identified 46 transcription factors (TF) that are directly regulated by NOTCH1 via super-enhancers during T cell development. Among these, two ETS factors, FLI1 and ERG, formed an “early transcriptional network”, with NOTCH1 that is crucial for T cell lineage specification. Remarkably, we showed that the NOTCH-ETS complex repressed KLF factors to regulate proliferation and developmental progression, allowing NOTCH1 dependent induction of the “late T cell transcriptional network”. This late network established the expression of T cell lineage specific genes and favored chromatin contraction at the TCR locus. Collectively, our study provides a mechanistic explanation for how Notch1 signaling progressively shapes its own transcriptional network through a finely timed activation as well as repression of lineage specific genes thereby attenuating proliferation, facilitating chromatin looping, and ultimately enabling T cell development.
Management of Blunt Liver Trauma in Pediatric Age Group.
Authors: Elzalal Ibrahem mohamed sherif
Published: September 2024

Background
Liver injuries take second place among all the injuries of the abdominal organs and represents 15–20%. Mortality from open liver injuries reaches 12%, while from closed injuries it amounts to 72% (Coccolini F et al. 2020).
Aim
to assess the outcome of management of blunt liver trauma in the pediatric age group at the department of hepato- pancreatico-biliary surgery at the national liver institute.
Methods
This study was conducted at National Liver Institute, Menoufiya University and included 54 pediatrics with hepatic trauma from October 2021 to October 2023. Data collected included demographics, clinical data, imaging findings, lab findings, management plane and outcome.
Results
Fifty-four patients were included in this study. Thirty-seven (68.52%) patients were males and 17 (31.48%) patients were females. Mean age for all patients was 10.02 ± 4.34. Twenty-six (48.15%) patients were hemodynamically stable and 28(51.85%) patients were hemodynamically unstable. The mode of trauma was compression in 7(12.96%) patients, falling from height in 8 (14.81%) patients, hit by hard object in 5(9.26%) patients and car accidents in 34(62.96%) patients. Eight (14.81%) patients had grade II liver trauma, 32(59.26%) patients had grade III liver trauma, 13(24.07%) patients had grade IV liver trauma, only one patient (1.85%) had grade VI liver trauma.
Conclusion
In highly experienced liver centers, even advanced grades of pediatric liver injuries still can be approached and managed non-operatively. Diligent ICU monitoring especially in the first 24 hours after trauma is critical to detect any early signs of clinical deterioration that may warrant urgent surgical intervention. In our single center experience, most of our patients were managed conservatively with excellent.
A Case of Post-Malarial Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome in a Young Woman of South Asian Origin
Authors: Barua Mousumi
Published: September 2024

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a chronic and debilitating dysautonomic disorder characterized by impairments in autonomic control of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and thermoregulation functions, resulting in various symptoms of orthostatic intolerance. While POTS is increasingly being diagnosed as post-COVID sequelae and complications, it’s rarely being reported if caused by non-viral infections and other clinical conditions. This case study reports a 30-year-long medical history of a patient who developed POTS at the age of 21 after about 4-weeks following a complete recovery from malignant malaria when she was a first-year medical student. She was initially presented with tachycardia, dizziness, presyncope, several episodes of syncope, and dysautonomic symptoms and was diagnosed with POTS only four years later by a tilt table test. This is a rare and probably the first reported case of post-malarial POTS, although symptoms associated with severe orthostatic hypotension, such as tachycardia and insufficient peripheral vasoconstriction, that are very similar to the symptoms of POTS, have been previously described in cases with acute malignant malaria. The patient made a remarkable recovery from POTS as she responded well to pharmacotherapy, primarily beta-blockers, along with lifestyle modifications. However, mild dysautonomic symptoms such as lack of thermoregulation and decreased perspiration have persisted throughout, and the patient has managed to cope with these symptoms and could function well in her daily life. Based on this case study, we suggest that the non-viral etiology of POTS, particularly the post-malarial cases, should be studied in detail to further understand the pathophysiology and management of the disorder.
Analysis of Temporal Rainfall Trends and Variability of the Three Drought-prone Districts of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Bhagat Nitin
Published: September 2024

This study examines monthly, seasonal and annual temporal rainfall trends and variability using average monthly time series over the three severe drought-prone Beed, Osmanabad and Latur districts of the Marathwada region of Maharashtra, India (1901 to 2018 for 118 years). Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI) is used to identify dry and rainy years, and the Coefficient of Variations (CV) is employed to compute rainfall variability. The non-parametric Mann-Kendall (MK) test and Sen’s slope estimator are calculated to detect the monthly, seasonal, and annual significance of trends and the magnitude. The RAI finds many drought and rainy years over the region during the study period. The analysis results show that out of 12 months, a few months observe statistically significant rainfall trends, while some of them observe statically negative rainfall trends at 1 and 5% significance levels. The Winter season records the highest rainfall variability in the four seasons over three districts. The southwest monsoon and annual rainfall series have shown the lowest variability in the data series. Drought (low rainfall) severely impacts on rural livelihoods and agricultural systems, particularly in vulnerable areas where poverty is prevalent, irrigation facilities are scarce and poor productivity.