bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Italian ryegrass and wild radish control with pre-emergent herbicides, and selectivity to imadazolinone-resistant wheat
Authors: Neto Roberto Avila , Ulguim André , Leichtweiss Eduard , Bortolin Eduardo , Correa Arícia , Brandão Victor , Heinzmann Natália , Pedroso Rafael
Published: November 2024

PRE herbicides are an efficient way to manage weeds in wheat and could control Italian ryegrass and wild radish. We assess control of these weeds by PRE herbicides applied after crop sowing, as well as determining their phytotoxicity to imidazolinone resistant Clearfield® (CL) wheat. All trials involved testing of different PRE herbicides applied right after wheat sowing. Field trials were conducted in 2021 in two sites (Santo Angelo and Santa Maria), both sow with cv. TBIO Ello CL. Soils were classified as oxisol (53% clay) and ultisol (31% clay), respectively. In all trials, variables evaluated included visual assessments of injuries, number of plants, and weed control levels. Crop yield components were also determined in field experiments, whereas variables related to weed densities were assessed in trials. Clomazone, sulfentrazone, and quinclorac herbicides were not selective to wheat. Imidazolinones herbicides were shown to be selective, and a premix formulation containing imazapyr + imazapic allowed for broad-spectrum weed control, treatments containing PPO-inhibiting herbicides were the most effective for wild radish.
Assessment of weathering and subterranean termite resistance in three thermally modified wood species in Portugal
Authors: Godinho Delfina , Lourenço Ana , Araújo Solange Oliveira , Machado José Saporiti , Nunes Lina , Duarte Marta , Duarte Sónia , Ferreira Cristina , Quilhó Teresa , Diamantino Teresa C. , Gominho Jorge
Published: November 2024

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the mechanical properties of three thermal-modified wood species when exposed to weathering in urban and maritime/industrial environments and their durability against subterranean termites. The wood species studied were Maritime Pine, Ash, and Blackwood acacia. All wood samples were exposed to two different environments (urban and maritime/industrial) for 24 months. Then, its physical and mechanical properties were evaluated (modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), compression strength (CS), and modulus of compression (MOC)). Thermally modified woods revealed a lower density, which could explain the loss of MOE and MOR. In compression, no significant changes were verified. The weathered samples revealed changes in mechanical properties, mostly verified in MOE and MOR, where some decreases were reported in both locations. Tests were performed to evaluate biodegradation and the resistance of all wood samples to subterranean termites. The grade of attack (≈ 4) and termite survival rate were similar in all wood species (above 75% and lower than 80%), except for Modified Acacia (59%), which could indicate that thermal modification increased toxic substances. The cellulose degradation was reflected in FTIR-ATR and Py/GC-MS in natural and thermally modified woods. Py/GC-MS showed a decrease in levoglucosan, while lignin suffered some modifications with slight changes in monomeric composition reflected by the reduction of the S/G ratio. No changes were found between the two environments, and thermal modification did not give extra protection against termites and weathering.
Sulfated cellulose pulp with ultra-high water retention characteristics
Authors: Morimitsu Sakura , Nishimura Ayato , Deguchi Kenzo , Mogami Yuuki , Ohki Shinobu , Hashi Kenjiro , Goto Atsushi , Yamada Kazuhiko
Published: November 2024

A sulfated cellulose pulp (SCP) exhibiting ultra-high water retention properties, has been developed and its water retention mechanisms have been analyzed based on its molecular structure determined by solid-state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Cellulose pulp (CP) wood-derived was sulfated using sulfamic acid and urea reaction system with varying concentrations of sulfamic acid. SCP has 1.31–1.91 mmol/g of sulfate groups and exhibits a high water retention value (WRV) of 16000%, which is approximately 100 times greater than that of CP. After the sulfate reaction, a new peak at 69 ppm was observed in the solid-state 13C NMR spectrum, which was assigned to the sulfated C6. Quantitative analysis indicated that approximately 18% of C6 in CP was converted to sulfated C6. WRV increased almost linearly with the amount of sulfated C6, which played an important role in the water retention capacity. SCP was proven very promising as a novel functional material, owing to the molecular mechanisms involved.
An Experimental and Numerical Evaluation of the Structural performance of Bamboo-Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Usidamen Daniel , Ogirigbo Okiemute Roland , Nwankwo Ebuka
Published: November 2024

The global shift toward sustainable construction calls for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials. While steel reinforcement in concrete offers high strength and durability, it has significant environmental and economic drawbacks. Bamboo, a fast-growing and renewable material, is a low-cost, eco-friendly option, but concerns about its structural performance have hindered its widespread use. This study examines the structural performance of concrete beams reinforced with steel (SRC), bamboo (BRC), and hybrid steel-bamboo combinations (HYB-1 and HYB-2). It assesses ultimate failure load, load-deflection curves, failure modes, and crack patterns to explore their viability as sustainable alternatives. Beams measuring 150×150×750 mm were tested experimentally and simulated using ABAQUS software under three-point bending. SRC beams had the highest ultimate failure load (104.67 kN) and deflection (8.6 mm). BRC beams had the lowest failure load (17.97 kN), a decrease of 82.9%. HYB-1 and HYB-2 showed intermediate loads of 87.25 kN and 24.99 kN, respectively. Deflection in BRC beams was the least (3.0 mm), while HYB-1 and HYB-2 showed deflections of 7.4 mm and 5.6 mm. Finite element analysis (FEA) closely matched experimental results, with an average difference of 7.44%, validating the accuracy of the modeling.
Prediction of Treatment Efficacy in Psoriasis Vulgaris Using Dermoscopic and Capillaroscopic Findings: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Akkus Muhammet Resat , Ozyurt Kemal , Atasoy Mustafa , Ertas Ragip , Kulu Huzeyfe , Ayata Sinem Sogancioglu , Demirbas Abdullah , Elmas Omer Faruk , Diremsizoglu Esin
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting millions worldwide. Dermoscopy and proximal nailfold capillaroscopy have emerged as valuable tools for understanding the pathophysiology and treatment response of psoriasis lesions. Objectives: This study aimed to contribute to the limited literature on using dermoscopic findings to detect treatment effectiveness in patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Methods: This prospective, single-blinded, observational cohort study included 101 patients aged 18–71 years diagnosed with psoriasis vulgaris who initiated or altered systemic treatment. Monthly dermoscopic and capillaroscopic evaluations were performed alongside assessments of Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI), Body Surface Area (BSA), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores. Results: A significant relationship was found between first-month dermoscopic findings and third-month severity scores (PASI, BSA, DLQI). Patients with positive treatment responses exhibited changes from baseline regular capillary dilations to hemorrhagic spots or the absence of vascular findings during the first month. The correlations between dermoscopic changes and severity scores evolved over time, becoming stronger in the second and third months. Nailfold capillaroscopy findings at the third month of treatment showed significant differences from baseline. Conclusions: Dermoscopy is a fast, practical, and inexpensive tool for early prediction of treatment effectiveness in psoriasis vulgaris. The disappearance of regular capillary dilations or their change to hemorrhagic spots suggests treatment efficacy, while their persistence indicates poor treatment response. Early detection of treatment effectiveness using dermoscopic findings can facilitate timely adjustments, improving patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary treatment exposure.
Many species and little knowledge: life-history traits and fishery landing patterns in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Mendonça Pablo , Nascimento Caio De Marco Oliveira Do , Fischer Luciano Gomes , Costa Marcus Rodrigues Da
Published: November 2024

The continental shelf of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean supports large commercial fisheries, being one of Brazil's most economically and socially important regions. The identification of adverse fishery effects requires accurate knowledge of the life history of these fisheries resources for quantitative assessment and biological reference point definition (BRP). In this study, we summarize data of eight life-history traits for 73 species of commercial importance for bottom trawl (Tw) and gillnet fleets (Gn) in the Southwestern Atlantic. Thirty-two species were highlighted in the Brazilian Red List of endangered species. All species were classified according to dominance and frequency by landing profile and functional groups, encompassing species from different trophic guilds that occupy distinct adult habitats. Of the 73 species, 11% were classified as main landing, 14% as seasonal landing, 34% as frequent landing, 33% as incidental catch, and the remaining corresponded to landings of Tw or Gn exclusively. Cynoscion jamaicensis was classified as the main landing for both fisheries, being dominant and frequent over the months. Strong correlations are presented in a wide variety of life-history traits. Principal Component Analysis identified three main groups accounting for 93.5% of the total variance, and M, k, and Lmax (PC1), L50 (PC2), and Tmax (PC3) being the main drivers. Elasmobranchs were represented by species with medium-to-large Size and medium-to-long Longevity, while most pelagic teleosts had fast Growth and higher Natural Mortality rates. Fecundity was highlighted as the least studied biological attribute, but a greater effort is also needed to study the age-growth relationship of many species. Due to important gaps in biological knowledge, we identified three priority groups among 23 data-poor species for which life history research should be prioritized in the short term. These highlights provide guidance for management and conservation and should be used as a guide for studies of biology, ecology and fisheries planning.
Integration of scRNA-Seq and bulk RNA-Seq to Establish a Macrophage-related Prognostic Model in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Yu Tao , Yang Guangji , Ren Dongyan , Li Yantao , Yue Chong , Yang Qin , Zhang Jie
Published: November 2024

Background
The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) poses challenges to effective immunotherapy in ovarian cancer (OC). Tumor-associated macrophages play a crucial role in the TME and are closely linked to OC prognosis. While many studies have used bulk RNA-seq for prognostic biomarker exploration, its limitation is in discerning gene expression differences between individual cells.
Methods
This study integrates single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) with bulk RNA-seq data to accurately investigate the relationship between macrophage molecular characteristics and prognosis. RNA-seq data and prognostic information were obtained from the GEO and TCGA datasets. Using the R package "Seurat," this study annotates cell types and visualizes single-cell data. Differentially expressed genes in macrophages are identified using the FindAllMarkers function and further analyzed with the limma package. The resulting genes, combined with survival data, undergo single-factor COX regression and LASSO regression to construct a prognosis model.
Results
Integrating scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data, this study established a prognosis model comprising 19 macrophage-related genes. Validation confirms the risk score as an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) in patients with OC. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival periods were 0.71, 0.68, and 0.73, respectively. Subsequent immune analysis revealed distinct TMEs between high- and low-risk groups. The high-risk group shows distinct TMEs. The high-risk group exhibited higher immune infiltration, increased M1 macrophage infiltration, elevated M2 macrophage infiltration, and reduced sensitivity to immunotherapy but enhanced sensitivity to anti-angiogenic drugs compared to that in the low-risk group.
Conclusion
The study analyzed differentially expressed genes related to macrophages in OC and constructed a prognosis model. Moreover, it revealed the risk score as a prognostic factor in OC, with implications for patient sensitivity to immunotherapy.
Evaluation of Ophthalmic Vascular and Neural Structures in Female Patients with Fibromyalgia Syndrome and Their Relationship with Disease Severity
Authors: Çelik Gülşah , Doğan Şebnem Koldaş , Bulut Mehmet , Büber Hakan , Durmaz Doğan
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate choroidal and macular thickness, as well as vascular structures in female fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), and to compare the results with healthy controls. Additionally, the relationship between these findings and disease severity was explored.
Methods
The study included 62 female FMS patients and 60 healthy controls, conducted between January 2022 and October 2022 at the Antalya Training and Research Hospital. FMS patients were assessed based on American College of Rheumatology criteria. Tear production and stability were evaluated using Schirmer and Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) tests, while OCTA and OCT were used to examine vascular and choroidal structures.
Results
The mean age of the FMS group was 43.11 ± 7.94 years. No significant difference was found in the Schirmer test, but the TBUT was significantly lower in the FMS group (p < 0.0001). OCTA showed significantly lower deep capillary plexus (DCP) values in the FMS group, with a weak negative correlation between DCP and disease severity (r=-0.227, p = 0.012). Foveal avascular zone (FAZ), non-flow, and choroidal thickness were significantly higher in FMS patients (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
The study demonstrated a relationship between dry eye, vascular changes, and increased choroidal thickness with disease severity in female patients with FMS. The reduction in DCP, along with increases in FAZ, non-flow, and choroidal thickness, may be linked to vascular and inflammatory processes involved in FMS pathogenesis. The decrease in tear quality may be due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. In conclusion, we suggest that autonomic dysfunction and inflammation in FMS may negatively affect retinal vascular structures and tear function.
Design and serviceability analysis of the handle of rice transplanters: An empirical study
Authors: zhao Aili , Jia Mengshi
Published: November 2024

The improper morphology of the handle and non-uniform stress distribution during the use of rice transplanters will cause hand injury. To make operators feel more comfortable when they hold the handle of rice transplanters, the ANSYS finite element analysis and JACK human simulation were made to find shortcomings of the original handle parts of rice transplanters. A handle that fitted the hand and grip force was designed, and the designed model was 3D-printed and tested. The results showed that compared with the original handle, the modified one had a larger stress area, with improved stress concentration. Moreover, the modified handle improved the tense postures of hand muscles and angles between finger joints, and the steering and throttle levers were adjusted so that they were in the rotation range of the hand. This study provides a theoretical basis for the improvement of handle components of rice transplanters.
Unlocking soybean meal pectin recalcitrance using a multi-enzyme cocktail approach
Authors: Plouhinec Lauriane , Zhang Liang , Pillon Alexandre , Haon Mireille , Grisel Sacha , Navarro David , Black Ian , Neugnot Virginie , Azadi Parastoo , Urbanowicz Breeanna , Berrin Jean-Guy , Lafond Mickael
Published: November 2024

Pectin is a complex plant heteropolysaccharide whose structure and function differ depending on its source. In animal feed, breaking down pectin is essential, as its presence increases feed viscosity and reduces nutrient absorption. Soybean meal, a protein-rich poultry feed ingredient, contains significant amounts of pectin, the structure of which remains unclear. Consequently, the enzyme activities required to degrade soybean meal pectin and how they interact are still open questions. In this study, we produced 15 recombinant fungal carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) identified from fungal secretomes acting on pectin. After observing that these enzymes were not active on soybean meal pectin when used alone, we developed a semiminiaturized method to evaluate their effect as multi-activity cocktails. We designed and tested 12 enzyme pools, containing up to 15 different CAZymes, using several hydrolysis markers. Thanks to our multiactivity enzymatic approach combined with a Pearson correlation matrix, we identified 10 fungal CAZymes efficient on soybean meal pectin, 9 of which originate from Talaromyces versatilis. Based on enzyme specificity and linkage analysis, we propose a structural model for soybean meal pectin. Our findings underscore the importance of combining CAZymes to improve the degradation of agricultural co-products.
Emotional needs for Smart Products: A Case Study of older people living alone in Chengdu, China
Authors: Yun Liu , Me Rosalam Che , Yus Irwan Syah Md
Published: November 2024

Objectives: Older people living alone can face enormous challenges in maintaining physical and mental health in their daily lives. The advent of smart products is expected to meet this growing demand. Therefore, the study aimed to provide a reference for the popularisation of smart aging through interviews on the emotional needs of older people living alone in Chengdu, China.
Methods: This study used qualitative interviews to evaluate the current situation surrounding the emotional needs of OPLA in urban areas. In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with 20 OPLAs aged 60 years and above in Chengdu, China. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.
Results: Three main themes emerged: (A) the emotional well-being of OPLA due to living alone; (B) efforts to satisfy emotional needs; and (C) the use of smart products to satisfy emotional needs.
Conclusion: Although there are still many obstacles to the popularisation of smart products for healthy aging, their necessity and feasibility have laid the foundation for the development and uptake of smart products. This study provides an in-depth exploration of the local interpretation of emotional needs among Chinese urban-dwelling OPLA, contributing to the agenda of smart aging locally and globally.
Active heart sparing VMAT planning radiotherapy in patients with central/large locally advanced NSCLC: contouring heart substructures matters!
Authors: Agolli Linda , Exeli Ann-Katrin , Schneider Uwe , Ihne-Schubert Sandra , Lurtz Andreas , Habermehl Daniel
Published: November 2024

Background
To investigate the feasibility of active heart sparing (AHS) planning in patients with locally advanced and centrally located NSCLC receiving definitive radiotherapy (RT).
Methods
A total of 27 patients treated with definitve RT were selected. All existing radiation plans were revised and further new equivalent plans were calculated using AHS for the same cohort. Primary end-point was feasibility of AHS using constraints for heart substructures. The secondary end point was to calculate the difference in terms of dosimetric parameters of heart substructures and principal OARs as well as PTV-coverage parameters within the current patient group.
Results
AHS was feasible in the entire group of patients. An optimal coverage of the target volume was obtained and all mandatory constraints for OARs have been met. The median value of the mean heart dose was 8.18Gy and 6.71Gy in the standard planning group and AHS-group, respectively (p = 0.000). Other heart parameters such as V5Gy (40.57% vs. 27.7%; p = 0.000) and V30Gy (5.39% vs. 3.86%; p = 0.000) were significantly worse in the standard planning group. The following dosimetric parameters regarding heart substructures were significantly better in the AHS-group: mean dose to heart base (16.97Gy vs 6.37Gy, p = 0.000), maximum dose (18.64Gy vs. 6.05Gy, p = 0.000) and V15Gy (11.11% vs. 0.000, p = 0.000) to LAD.
Conclusion
Our analysis showed an improvement in dosimetric parameters regarding heart and heart substructures in patients with advanced NSCLC treated with definitive RT using AHS. This approach could lead to a possible reduction of heart events and a prolonged survival.
Screening strategies for prostate cancer in Israeli BRCA pathogenic sequence variant carriers
Authors: Amir Ido , Friedman Eitan , Laitman Yael , Dotan Zohar A , Rosenzweig Barak
Published: November 2024

Men carrying germline pathogenic sequence variants (PSVs) in the BRCA1/2 (BRCA- PSV) are at an increased risk for early onset aggressive prostate cancer (PrCa). Screening strategies, including prostate MRI (pMRI), are advocated, yet their clinical utility remains uncertain. To this end we employed Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) to compare screening based on either family history of PrCa, age-stratified PSA or pMRI, assessing net benefits with the outcome of performing biopsy. Overall 148 BRCA- PSV carriers (8620 person/years) were included, of whom 80 had ≥ 2 consecutive visits. Of these – 53/80 (66.25%) underwent pMRI screening, and 11 underwent biopsy for radiologically suspicious lesion and 4 were diagnosed with PrCa. Gene-specific and age-stratified analyses were carried out to assess the preferred mode for guiding prostate biopsy. Compared with other strategies, pMRI demonstrated the highest net benefits across all threshold probabilities for the entire cohort and both ≥ 61 and 35–50 years.
Changes in Gastric volume during sedative flexible bronchoscopy with supraglottic jet oxygenation and ventilation: A randomized, double-blind study
Authors: Wu Zhiyun , Zha Benjun , Xie Ping , Xu Li , Zhuang Haibin , Wei Huafeng
Published: November 2024

Background: Increasing gastric volume is one of the main risk factors associated with pulmonary aspiration. Supraglottic jet oxygenation and ventilation (SJOV) using the WEI Nasal Jet Tube (WEI Nasal JET, WNJ) is a developing technique, and is increasingly used to promote oxygenation and ventilation during moderate to deep sedation and difficult airway management. However, its potential to increase gastric volume has not been investigated.
Methods: This is a prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical study. Patients were randomized to three groups according to the driving pressures of SJOV (15, 20, or 25 psi), corresponding to P15, P20, or P25 groups, respectively. All patients were sedated with remifentanil and propofol, the longitudinal (D1) and anteroposterior (D2) of the gastric antrum were measured by ultrasonography. The primary outcome, gastric volume, was recorded at the initation of SJOV (T0), and after using SJOV for 1minute (T1), 5 minutes (T2), and at the end of the procedure (T3). The secondary outcomes included end-tidal CO2 (PETCO2) at T0, T1, T2 and T3. Adverse events related to SJOV (gastric insufflations, hypoxemia, barotrauma, pharyngalgia and xerostomia) were also recorded.
Results: 222 patients were randomized and recruited to the study. An ANOCVA showed no significant Group*Time interaction for gastric volume and PETCO2 (F Group*Time=0.069, P=0.991 and F Group*Time=0.165, P=0.956). The main effect analysis showed there were no significant differences in the effects of 3 driving pressure on gastric volume and PETCO2 (F Group=0.034, P=0.966 and F Group=0.602, P=0.549) and the changes in gastric volume and PETCO2 at different time points were similar (F Time=8.760, P=0.350 and F Time=1.876, P=0.154). However, there was more pharyngalgia and xerostomia in the P25 group than in the P15 group at 30 min and 1h after the procedure, but there was no significant difference among the three groups at 24h after the procedure. Gastric insufflations and barotrauma were absent in all patients.
Conclusions: During fiberoptic bronchoscopy, SJOV using WNJ with driving pressure of 15 psi, 20 psi, and 25 psi had the same effect on gastric volume, and had a higher incidence of xerostomia and pharyngalgia at driving pressure of 25 psi than 15 psi
Date of registration: 1/06/2019
Date of enrolment of the first research participant：04/01/2020
Longitudinal VOCs profiling by direct-injection mass spectrometry reveals the interaction between the gut microbiota and dietary fibers in-vitro
Authors: Dell'Olio Andrea , Rubert Josep , Khomenko Iuliia , Capozzi Vittorio , Fogliano Vincenzo , Biasioli Franco
Published: November 2024

Intestinal fermentation is a complex process with profound implications for human health, driven by the production of metabolites, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs), that influence gut microbiota-host interactions. Advances in omics approaches have enhanced our understanding of temporal dynamics in diet-microbiota interactions. The development of direct injection mass spectrometry (DIMS) has enabled rapid, non-invasive characterization of volatile metabolites within microbial ecosystems, offering a promising approach for longitudinal profiling of the human gut volatilome in response to dietary substrates. In this study, we utilized Proton Transfer Reaction Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (PTR-ToF-MS) to analyze VOCs produced during colonic fermentation, examining the effects of dietary fibers such as oat bran and inulin. Hierarchical clustering grouped VOC profiles over time, revealing distinct fermentation patterns associated with each substrate. We further applied RM-ASCA, a multivariate method for repeated measurements, to identify key VOCs driving differences between oat bran and inulin fermentations. Notably, oat bran fermentation significantly suppressed hydrogen sulfide and methanethiol compounds often linked to gut inflammation, suggesting a protective role in reducing these sulfur metabolites. Additionally, oat bran fermentation was marked by the release of 2,3-butanedione, a metabolite associated with fiber-rich diets in vivo. To validate our findings, we compared the PTR-ToF-MS volatilome fingerprints with those obtained using SPME-GC-MS, a reference method from our previous study. Our results demonstrate that PTR-ToF-MS is a rapid, non-invasive tool well-suited for high-throughput analysis of fecal batch fermentations. Combined with advanced statistical tools, this approach provides deeper insights into diet-gut microbiota interactions in vitro, facilitating the exploration of complex dynamics in gut health research.
Brain Arteriovenous Malformations Treated with Linear Accelerator-based Stereotactic Radiosurgery: A Latin American Experience
Authors: Rangel-Sarmiento Valentina , Soto-Cala Beatriz , Cure Juanita , Caicedo-Martinez Maria , Borda German , Lindado Carlos A. , Castro-Lombana Esperanza , Puentes Juan C. , Zorro-Guío Oscar , González-Motta Alejandro
Published: November 2024

Background
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a reasonable treatment for brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) not suitable for microsurgery. However, limited data exists on linear accelerator (LINAC)-based SRS, a key option in low- and middle-income countries where access to technologies like Gamma Knife or Cyber Knife is restricted. This study aimed to determine the obliteration rate and outcomes of bAVMs treated with LINAC-based SRS guided by triple fusion imaging at a quaternary care institution in Latin America.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective observational study including patients with bAVMs treated with LINAC-based SRS between 2011 and 2017 at a hospital in Bogota, Colombia. Data was collected from medical records and telephone interviews. The primary outcome was 3-year obliteration rate. Secondary outcomes included intracranial bleeding, headaches, epilepsy, and neurological deficits before and after radiosurgery. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, central tendency measures, and logistic regression.
Results
The study included 82 patients, 51.2% were female, with a third residing outside of Bogota. Ruptured bAVMs were present in 44% of patients, 74.4% were located in eloquent brain areas and most were Spetzler Martin grade III. Prior embolization was performed in 57.3% of patients, and the median radiosurgery dose was 20 Gy (SD 1.6). Satisfactory 3-year follow-up was possible in 59 participants with a complete obliteration rate of 57.4%. The most common post-SRS symptom was headache (53.8%), followed by focal neurological deficits (33.3%). Two deaths due to bAVM rupture were reported post-SRS. The radiosurgery dose was significantly associated with bAVM obliteration (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.05–2.61, p-value = 0.030).
Conclusions
Linear accelerator-based SRS with triple fusion imaging offers a viable option for managing bAVMs in settings with limited access to cutting-edge technologies. However, there is a compelling need for improving patient follow-up in future research, which will contribute to a more accurate assessment of obliteration rates and other treatment outcomes.
Study of the hydraulic conductivity of a highly compressible clayey soil stabilized with kraft black liquor and composite cement
Authors: de Queiroz Bruno Pereira , Nascentes Rejane , Ferraz Roberto Lopes , Boscov Maria Eugenia Gimenez , Fontes Mauricio Paulo Ferreira
Published: November 2024

This This study investigated the hydraulic conductivity of a compacted high plasticity clayey soil (CH) and its mixtures with kraft black liquor (KBL) and cement for use in sanitary landfill bottom liners. Black liquor dosages of 3 and 5% were used in relation to the dry mass of the soil, and two types of cement were tested: composed of granulated blast furnace slag (CP II˗E˗32) and of carbonate material (CP II˗F˗32). The addition of black liquor reduced the hydraulic conductivity of the soil by up to 10 times. Mixtures with 3% black liquor and 5% liquor-cement CP II˗F˗32 showed the best performance, with hydraulic conductivity values in the range of 2.4 to 3.4 x 10-10 m/s. Mixtures with CP II˗E˗32 cement had higher and more variable hydraulic conductivity. Black liquor additions increased the pH of the mixtures and the concentration of adsorbed Na+ in the leachate. The combined addition of black liquor and cement increased the effective cation exchange capacity (CEC), particularly with CP II˗F˗32 cement. The higher concentration of Ca2+ in the leachate of mixtures with CP II˗E˗32 cement contributed to the poorer hydraulic performance. However, the higher concentration of Al3+ in the leachate of mixtures with CP II˗F˗32 cement did not impact hydraulic conductivity. It was concluded that the dispersion of clay particles induced by black liquor was the primary mechanism for reducing hydraulic conductivity. Mixtures with 3% black liquor and 5% liquor-cement CP II˗F˗32 showed the lowest hydraulic conductivity values, indicating their potential as a suitable stabilizer for landfill liners.
Activity screening of Pt-CeO2 gradient films prepared by bipolar electrochemistry for electro-oxidation reactions
Authors: Ketkaew Marisa , Kassahun Getnet , Ali Nashwan Hussein , Garrigue Patrick , Bonhommeau Sébastien , Bouffier Laurent , Kuhn Alexander , Wattanakit Chularat , Zigah Dodzi
Published: November 2024

Glassy carbon electrodes were modified with a CeO2 film and Pt nanoparticles (Pt-CeO2) for electrocatalysis. Interestingly, the oxidation of benzyl alcohol was significantly enhanced when Pt-CeO2 films were prepared by the simultaneous electrodeposition of the two materials, indicating a significant synergistic electrocatalytic activity. Subsequently, bipolar electrochemistry was employed to prepare Pt-CeO2 gradient films. Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) was employed for studying local electrochemical properties at liquid/solid interfaces. SECM allowed mapping the local electrochemical performance of the Pt-CeO2 gradient films for benzyl alcohol oxidation, showing that the reaction rate is proportional to the local Pt-CeO2 surface coverage. Therefore, Pt-CeO2 deposits with different densities along the bipolar electrode offer tunable catalytic performances for benzyl alcohol oxidation. This allows identifying in a fast and straightforward way the optimal conditions for electrocatalytic processes in a more general sense because the approach, illustrated here with one specific reaction, can be easily generalized to other catalytically-active surfaces.
The precarious helping hand – a systematic review of precarity faced by social workers
Authors: Lai Chi Yuen , He Langjie , Lau Siu Mei
Published: November 2024

Precarity as an academic concept started with researching the working-class in marginal positions (e.g., construction workers). It extended its focus to ontological insecurity and skilled workers such as journalists. The problematic working conditions featured by insufficient funding and overloads by the social work (SW) profession have been one type of skilled work under the threat of precarization. Yet, there is insufficient dialogue between the two concepts. Studies (n = 14) were selected by searching through five social science databases using the search terms combination of “precarity” OR “precarization” OR “precariousness” AND “social work” OR “social worker”. Findings suggest a large 61-item precarity occurred to the SW profession, such as job insecurity and alienation from professional roles, across the dimensions of contextual factors driven precarity, employment conditions, job content, skill reproduction, and outcomes on client relationships. This review shows that four sub-groups of SWs face deeper precarity: those employed in private settings, younger SWs, SW placement students, and bilingual SWs. SW educators are also found to be in a precarious position, threatening the skill reproduction of the industry. The review summarizes that SW precarization has been seriously understudied, and therefore we recommend that more research, with multiple types of data and longitudinal design, in Asian and African regions, should be conducted by adopting the theoretical lenses of lived experience and collection of multiple types of data with a longitudinal perspective taken into account.
Prediction of oxidation resistance and mechanism study of Ti-V-Cr burn resistant titanium alloy based on machine learning
Authors: Sun Yuanzhi , Mi Guangbao , Li Peijie , He Liangju
Published: November 2024

A machine learning model was developed to predict the oxidation resistance of Ti-V-Cr burn resistant titanium alloy and the natural logarithm of the parabolic oxidation rate constant (lnkp) was utilized as the model output. Four algorithms were used to train the model. The results show that the two algorithms based on multiple learners, Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) show better performance. The coefficient of determination R2 of the model is 0.98 and the maximum error is 6.57% and 6.40% respectively. The importance and interpretability of the input features such as the content and temperature were analyzed. It was found that the trend of the model analysis results was the same as that of the experimental conclusions, which further revealed the mechanism of the influence of element content and temperature changes on the oxidation resistance of Ti-V-Cr alloys and verified the effectiveness of the model. This study is of great significance for the discovery, prediction and quantification of new high temperature oxidation resistant Ti-V-Cr alloys.
Dichotomitin promotes osteoblast differentiation and improves osteoporosis by inhibiting oxidative stress
Authors: Han Meichun , Du Weibin , Zhang Lei , Wang Zhenwei , Fang Shengqiang , Zheng Yang , Quan Renfu
Published: November 2024

Objective
Osteoporosis is a systemic disease with high morbidity and significant adverse effects. Increasing evidence supports the close relationship between oxidative stress and osteoporosis, suggesting that treatment with antioxidants may be a viable approach. This study evaluated the antioxidant properties of dichotomitin (DH) and its potential protective effects against osteoporosis.
Methods
SD rats were divided into three groups (n = 4 per group): Sham, OVX, and OVX + DH (5mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection twice weekly). After three months, blood samples, femurs, and tibiae were collected for analysis.Micro-CT evaluated the femoral, while histological examination assessed tibial tissues. Serum osteogenic biochemical markers were measured. In vitro, HS-5 osteogenic differentiation was induced with varying concentrations of DH, followed by ALP and ARS staining. RT-q PCR and Western blot were used to assess the expression of osteogenesis-related genes and proteins. Additionally, an oxidative stress cell model was established, dividing cells into control, H2O2-treated, and H2O2 + DH-treated groups. Expression of oxidative stress-related genes and proteins was assessed using real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting.
Results
Micro-CT and histological staining revealed decreased and disrupted bone trabeculae in the OVX group, whereas the DH-treated group exhibited enhanced bone trabecular area and structure compared to the OVX group. In vitro studies showed that DH enhanced ALP activity and elevated expression of RUNX2, OPN, OCN, SOD1, and SOD2.
Conclusion
DH appears to promote osteoblast differentiation and mitigate osteoporosis by suppressing oxidative stress.
Fully distributed robust adaptive xed-time consensus for uncertaintime-varying multi-agent systems with/without unknown control directions
Authors: Yang Nana , Small Michael , Chen Jiaxi , Li Suoping
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the problem of fully distributed fixed-time consensus for an uncertaintime-varying multi-agent systems with/without unknown control directions. In accordance with the characteristicsof time-varying parameters and fixed-time consensus theory, fractional power parameter adaptive updatinglaws are designed to tackle with time-varying issue and avoid the singularity of protocols. Combine the adaptivecontrol and congelation of variables method, a new robust adaptive control scheme is proposed. Simultaneously, a novel weighted Lyapunov function and positive constant are introduced such that the estimation of settingtime is irrespective of any global information. The fully distributed fixed-time consensus has been realized, and the signals involved are all bounded. Two simulation examples illustrate the effectiveness of the presented strategy.
Characterization of Mint mosaic virus, a new member of the genus Carlavirus
Authors: Forgia Marco , Vallino Marta , Marra Monica , Mussano Paolo , Lanteri Anna Paola , Accotto Gian Paolo , Ciuffo Marina
Published: November 2024

In this work the complete genome of a new carlavirus causing mosaic on mint plants in Italy is reported and tentatively named Mint mosaic virus (MMV). Flexuous particles of around 600 nm were observed through TEM analysis and NGS sequencing was performed to determine MMV genome. MMV genome is 8558 nt long, excluding the poly(A) tail and shows the typical organization of a carlavirus. The putative proteins coded by MMV have homology percentages ranging between 44% and 56% against the closest viruses in the NCBI database, suggesting that MMVcan be considered a new species in the genus Carlavirus. MMV was detected in independent mint samples from different Italian regions collected in years 2023 and 2024, suggesting a broad diffusion, at least in the Italian area. The two MMV isolates characterized in 2023 (Me1) and in 2024 (Me2) were included in the plant virus collection PLAVIT.
A data mining approach for analysing globalshipping patterns.
Authors: Spiliopoulos Giannis , Ducruet César , Millefiori Leonardo M. , Braca Paolo , Zissis Dimitris
Published: November 2024

Ships are often considered as the backbone of the global economy. A fundamental unresolved problem is how to best operate fleets, given a sudden increase in demand, such as that reported following the first months of the COVID19 pandemic. Advancing our knowledge of the supply chain's delicate equilibrium between demand and supply, requires analyzing huge amounts of ship-related positional data, thus revealing which areas should be avoided due to potential congestion buildup and where cargoes should be rerouted to. Herein, we analyze a large-scale high-resolution mobility data set of more than 7,000 container ships, collected over an extended period of 36 months, covering the entire globe, so as to measure quantitatively the effects of the pandemic post-hoc on the supply chain. To further understand these fine-grained mobility patterns, we introduce a mobility model for calculating ship presence times (or waiting times) at a global scale. We then reveal the congestion points, which strongly correlate with port waiting areas and anchorages. We analyse the data to reveal how times at port areas were affected by the rising number of ships waiting to load or unload cargo. Following this, we transform this data into a ‘port to port’ graph mapping the international flow of containerised trade. We apply methods of graph theory, complex networks, and multivariate statistics to unravel the hidden relationships between global maritime structure and ship time distribution. This analysis is novel in respect to the size of the data analyzed, the algorithmic approach and the impact of the results which reveal some affinities between pre-COVID and post-COVID shipping patterns.
Comparing Observed and Reanalysis Data for Trends in Heat and Cold Waves in Brazil (1996–2022)
Authors: Silva Alindomar Lacerda , Sheridan Scott , Ibebuchi Chibuike , Lee Cameron
Published: November 2024

This study provides a comparative analysis of the ERA5 reanalysis and Integrated Surface Database (ISD) datasets to evaluate their effectiveness in identifying extreme heat and cold events across Brazil from 1996 to 2022. With Brazil’s vast area and uneven distribution of weather stations, the research emphasizes the suitability of ERA5 in capturing extreme temperature events (ETEs) in data-sparse regions. Key metrics—Pearson correlation, Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), hit rates for extreme events, and matching days at the 5th and 95th percentiles—were used to compare datasets. Results revealed a high overall correlation (r = 0.89) between ERA5 and ISD, with notable regional variability, particularly in the North and Northeast. ERA5 data indicated a significant increase in heatwave frequency, especially in the North, where heatwave events rose from an average of 0.96 per year (1996–2004) to 3.10 per year (2014–2022). Conversely, ISD data showed declining heatwave trends in some regions, notably in the Northeast, where heatwave frequency decreased from 2.38 to 1.05 events per year over the same periods. Coldwave trends showed a general decline in both datasets, consistent with global warming. ERA5, for instance, recorded a decrease in coldwave events in the North from 2.38 per year to 0.53 per year. However, ISD data showed less consistency, with minimal declines in the North, Northeast, and Midwest. These discrepancies highlight challenges due to data sparsity and methodological differences but affirm ERA5's utility for ETE detection in regions lacking dense weather station coverage. This study provides critical insights into the strengths and limitations of reanalysis versus station-based data for climate monitoring in Brazil, with implications for future climate research and policy. Keywords: Extreme Heat, Extreme Cold, Reanalysis, Station Data, Brazil.
Mll4 in Skeletal Muscle Fiber Maintains Muscle Stem Cells by Regulating Notch Ligands
Authors: Kim Yea-Eun , Hann Sang-Hyeon , Jo Young-Woo , Yoo Kyusang , Kim Ji-Hoon , Lee Jae W. , Kong Young-Yun
Published: November 2024

Background
Muscle stem cells (MuSCs) undergo numerous state transitions throughout life, which are critical for supporting normal muscle growth and regeneration. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the regulatory mechanisms governing the transition of MuSC states across different postnatal developmental stages.
Methods
To assess if myofiber-expressed Mll4 contributes to the maintenance of MuSCs, we crossed MCKCre/+ or HSAMerCreMer/+ mice to Mll4f/f mice to generate myofiber-specific Mll4-deleted mice. Investigations were conducted using 8-week-old and 4-week-old MCKCre/+;Mll4f/f mice Investigations were conducted using 8-week-old and 4-week-old HSACre/+;Mll4f/f mice were utilized.
Results
During postnatal myogenesis, Mll4 deleted muscles were observed with increased number of cycling MuSCs that proceeded to a differentiation state, leading to MuSC deprivation. This phenomenon occurred independently of gender. When Mll4 was ablated in adult muscles using the inducible method, adult MuSCs lost their quiescence and differentiated into myoblasts, also causing the depletion of MuSCs. Such roles of Mll4 in myofibers coincided with decreased expression levels of distinct Notch ligands: Jag1 and Dll1 in pubertal and Jag2 and Dll4 in adult muscles.
Conclusions
Our study suggests that Mll4 is crucial for maintaining MuSCs in both pubertal and adult muscles, which may be accomplished through the modulation of distinct Notch ligand expressions in myofibers. These findings offer new insights into the role of myofiber-expressed Mll4 as a master regulator of MuSCs, highlighting its significance not only in developmental myogenesis but also in adult muscle, irrespective of sex.
Genetic neurocognitive profile of autism unveiled with gene transcription
Authors: Hu Sheng , Zhang Yingxing , Li Fangfang , Wu Hongli , Du Wei , Shu Jianhua , Wang Anqing , Xu Chunsheng , Li Chuanfu , Wang Ya
Published: November 2024

The neurobiological basis for elaborating phenotypic heterogeneity within autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains unknown. Applying the principal component analysis to the Neurosynth database, we established neurocognitive profiles to characterize the phenotypic heterogeneity of ASD, revealing a cortical hierarchical axis that separates the temporal cortex from other networks. By integrating neurocognitive profiles with transcriptomic data, we found that gene sets shaping the patterns of neurocognitive profiles are enriched in ASD-related biological processes and ASD pathogenic risk. Using a data-driven approach, we identified a topographic network for ASD, comprising the temporal, frontal, somatosensory, and visual cortices, with its transcriptomic signatures differentiating between regions over neurodevelopment. Additionally, functional reorganization in ASD within the topographic network has occurred with the temporal cortex as the central node. Collectively, our results reveal spatially covarying transcriptomic and neurocognitive profiles, emphasizing the influence of functional reorganization and its underlying genetic mechanism on phenotypic heterogeneity in ASD.