bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Urea-based mutualistic transfer of nitrogen in biological soil crusts
Authors: Heredia-Velásquez Ana Mercedes , Sarkar Soumyadev , Thomas Finlay Warsop , Baza Ariadna Cairó , Garcia-Pichel Ferran 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Foundational to the establishment and recovery of biocrusts is a mutualistic exchange of carbon for nitrogen between pioneer cyanobacteria, including the widespread Microcoleus vaginatus, and heterotrophic diazotrophs in its "cyanosphere". In other such mutualisms, nitrogen is transferred as amino acids or ammonium, preventing losses through specialized structures, cell apposition or intracellularity. Yet, in the biocrust symbiosis relative proximity achieved through chemotaxis optimizes the exchange. We posited that further partner specificity may stem from using an unusual nitrogen vehicle, urea. We show that representative mutualist M. vaginatus PCC 9802 possesses genes for urea uptake, two ureolytic systems, and the urea cycle, overexpressing only uptake and the rare urea carboxylase/allophanate hydrolase (uc/ah) when in co-culture with mutualist Massilia sp. METH4. In turn, it overexpresses urea biosynthesis, but neither urease nor urea uptake when in co-culture. On nitrogen-free medium, three cyanosphere isolates release urea in co-culture with M. vaginatus but not in monoculture. Conversely, M. vaginatus PCC 9802 grows on urea down to the low micromolar range. In natural biocrusts, urea is at low and stable concentrations that do not support the growth of most local bacteria, but aggregates of mutualists constitute dynamic microscale urea hotspots, and the cyanobacterium responds chemotactically to urea. The coordinated gene co-regulation, physiology of cultured mutualists, distribution of urea pools in nature, and responses of native microbial populations, all suggest that low-concentration urea is likely the main vehicle for interspecies N transfer, helping attain partner specificity, for which the rare high-affinity uc/ah system of Microcoleus vaginatus is likely central.
Effects of the Intensity and Duration of COVID-19 Lockdown Policies on the Use of Coping Strategies: Evidence from Four African Countries
Authors: Baliki Ghassan , Todua Ani , Weiffen Dorothee , Regassa Mekdim Dereje , Stojetz Wolfgang , Brück Tilman 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Governments worldwide responded to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic with various lockdown measures. Restrictions curb the spread of a virus but also cause serious economic challenges. Evidence on how the severity of lockdown policies impacts the economic behaviour of households in low- and middle-income countries over time remains absent. To close this knowledge gap, we study the immediate and protracted effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on households' economic coping strategies. Specifically, we examine how variations in intensity and duration of lockdown policies affect the use of savings, selling assets and reducing essential non-food expenditure in four African countries: Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Uganda. Using ‘Life with Corona Africa’, a large-scale dataset collected through continuous phone interviews over a full year in 2021, we apply a linear probability model with country and month fixed effects to test the combined effect of the duration and intensity of lockdown policies. We find that, immediately after the introduction of (stricter) lockdown policies, the share of households who spend savings or sell assets declines. Instead, households reduce expenditure on non-food essential items, such as education and clothing. Under longer lockdowns, however, households change their response and spend their savings and sell their assets. The effects are particularly pronounced for the two poorest quintiles of households. Taken together, our findings underscore the importance of providing adequate social safety nets for poor households to deal with income shocks under protracted lockdowns since households can only cope with short lockdowns without employing harmful adaptation mechanisms.
Identification of Anticholinesterase Active Compounds from the Ethylacetate Fraction of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Itrifal Sana Using TLC–bioautography–MS and Its Validation Using an In Silico Molecular Approach
Authors: Samal Monalisha , Siddiqui Aslam , Dar Mohammad Irfan , Srivastava Varsha , Khan Muzayyana , Parveen Rabea , Ansari Shahid Hussain , Ahmad Sayeed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Traditional formulations are used extensively throughout the world due to their holistic approach to health and wellness with the fewest possible adverse effects. Itrifal Sana is a traditional Unani polyherbal formulation: a unique combination that makes it synergistically potent, capable of providing dual benefits for health and well-being. Even though the formulation is frequently utilized, there is no scientific evidence to support its therapeutic efficiency.

Objective
The present study was designed to detect and identify bioactives, responsible for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity, by TLC–bioautography–MS and its validation using an in silico molecular approach.

Methods
Authentication of the formulation was performed using macroscopy and powder microscopy. Quality control was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS) fingerprint analysis. TLC–bioautography–MS was performed to detect the bioactives responsible for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity and the findings were validated using an in silico approach.

Results
The TLC–bioautography–MS revealed the presence of rosmarinic acid, kaempferol, and apigenin as potential bioactive anticholinesterase metabolites. UPLC–MS analysis demonstrated the separation of 48 phytocompounds in the most active fraction of the formulation. In silico analysis of identified metabolites showed acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in ten identified metabolites, and, moreover, rosmarinic acid and lobeline showed the highest potential activity.

Conclusion
Our findings indicate that Itrifal Sana, which was investigated for the first time, has enormous potential for managing alzheimer’s disease (AD) caused by acetylcholinesterase enzyme inhibition. The findings were derived through a successful TLC–bioautography–MS and in silico approach; however, further research on the full efficacy using in vitro cell line studies, in vivo studies, pharmacokinetics studies, and toxicity studies is still needed.

Highlights
TLC–bioautography–MS and an in silico molecular approach offer much more effective, accurate, and reliable results than conventional methods in the identification and validation of bioactive components from Itrifal Sana, a polyherbal formulation that helps to advance the development of natural product-based therapeutics for cholinesterase dysfunctional diseases.
RMST: a long noncoding RNA involved in cancer and disease
Authors: Tani Hidenori 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Long non-coding RNA rhabdomyosarcoma 2-associated transcript (RMST) is a crucial regulator in various biological processes, particularly in neurogenesis and cancer progression. This review summarizes current knowledge on structure, expression patterns and functional roles across different organs and diseases of RMST. RMST exhibits tissue-specific expression, notably in brain tissues and vascular endothelial cells, and plays a significant role in neuronal differentiation through interaction with SRY-box 2. In cancer, RMST predominantly functions as a tumour suppressor, with context-dependent roles observed across different cancer types. RMST is also implicated in neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases and Hirschsprung’s disease. Mechanistically, RMST acts as a competing endogenous RNA and a transcriptional regulator, interacting with various microRNAs and proteins to modulate gene expression. The potential of RMST as a biomarker and therapeutic target is increasingly recognized, particularly in atherosclerosis and cancer. While current findings are promising, further research is needed to fully elucidate the functions and translate these insights into clinical applications of RMST. This review underscores the significance of RMST in cellular processes and disease pathogenesis, highlighting its potential as a novel target for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Means-Goal Conflict and Novel Brand Choice
Authors: Gamlin Jessica , Brick Danielle J 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Globalization and technological advancements have spurred a rapid increase in the number of novel brands in the marketplace. When and why consumers choose a novel brand are increasingly important questions for marketers. The present research explores these questions and posits that consumers are more likely to choose a novel brand depending upon the choice context. Specifically, we theorize that consumers are more likely to choose a novel brand under means-goal conflict (as opposed to means-goal congruence). We suggest this effect occurs because, in contexts involving means-goal conflict, consumers are motivated to justify their choice, and novel brands afford consumers the opportunity to do so. That is, unlike familiar brands, novel brands lack strong associations in consumers’ minds, which allows consumers the ability to interpret them as less impedimental (i.e., less harmful) to their goal (a choice-justification strategy), thereby increasing choice. We test and find support for our hypotheses about novel brand choice across eight studies. The present research contributes to the literatures on branding, consumer goals and choice, and means-goal associations and has implications for managers launching new brands into the competitive global marketplace.
Deaf/hard of hearing ecological assessment form—child (DEAF-C)
Authors: Whitaker Robert , Morere Donna A 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Only about 1% of the children receiving special education services are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH). This group of children is highly heterogeneous with respect to a range of factors such as age of onset, degree of hearing loss, language and communication choices and access, and educational settings. Capturing the complex background of a DHH child is a critical component of an appropriate and accurate evaluation. A structured developmental history is the most effective way to ensure clinicians of all levels of experience are gathering comprehensive information relevant to a DHH child. However, to date, no such assessment focusing on factors specific to DHH children exists. The purpose of this article is to introduce a structured background information and developmental history form designed to gather comprehensive developmental and ecological information unique to DHH children.
The (Un)Importance of Inheritance
Authors: Black Sandra E , Devereux Paul J , Landaud Fanny , Salvanes Kjell G 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Transfers from parents—either in the form of gifts or inheritances—have received much attention as a source of inequality. This paper uses administrative data for the population of Norway to examine the share of the Total Inflows (defined as the capitalized sum of net labor income, government transfers, and gifts and inheritances received over the period) accounted for by capitalized gifts and inheritances. Consistent with other work, we find that there is much inequality in the receipt of gifts and inheritances. However, gifts and inheritances represent a small share of Total Inflows; this is true across the distribution of Total Inflows, as well as at all levels of net wealth. Gifts and inheritances are only an important source of income flows among those who have very wealthy parents. Additionally, gifts and inheritances have very little effect on the distribution of Total Inflows, suggesting that inheritance taxes may do little to mitigate inequality.
Inverse wavefield transform of vertical magnetic component of loop-source TEM data over coalfield strata: a case study in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Guo Jianlei , Fan Kerui , Li Wenhan , Xue Junjie , Lu Kailiang , Qi Zhipeng , Li Xiu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The transient electromagnetic method (TEM) is an effective and efficient tool that can be used to map the subsurface distribution of electric conductivity. To highlight the subsurface conductivity contrasts, inverse wavefield transform has been proposed and applied to provide reflection events from geo-electric interfaces similar to those in the wavefield reflection methods. In this paper we present a case study of inverse wavefield transform for loop-source TEM data. The TEM survey site is located in a coal field in Inner Mongolia, China. Previous geological surveys and TEM data inversion had already confirmed that, within the depth of 800 m, the subsurface structure of conductivity is layered and smooth. The numerical and field data were transformed by a self-adapted algorithm of inverse wavefield transform. The reflection events were observed as expected in the pseudo-wavefield wavefield traces transformed from the numerical and field data. The data misfit between the fitted data (recovered from the transformed pseudo-wavefield) and the field (or numerical) data was smaller than 15% for the 720 × 720 m loop used in our case. Finally, numerical and field cases with detailed discussion are presented to illustrate that the algorithm and results of our inverse wavefield transform are physically rational and numerically accurate.
Bacteria-powered self-healing concrete: Breakthroughs, challenges, and future prospects
Authors: Elgendy Ibrahim M , Elkaliny Nehal E , Saleh Hoda M , Darwish Gehad O , Almostafa Mervt M , Metwally Kamel , Yahya Galal , Mahmoud Yehia A -G 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In a world where concrete structures face constant degradation from environmental forces, a revolutionary solution has emerged: bio-self-healing concrete. This innovation involves embedding dormant bacteria within the concrete mix, poised to spring into action when cracks form. As moisture seeps into the cracks, these bacterial agents are activated, consuming nutrients and converting them into calcium carbonate, a natural substance that fills and repairs the fractures, restoring the material’s integrity. This fascinating process represents a cutting-edge approach to maintaining concrete infrastructure, turning once-vulnerable materials into self-sustaining systems capable of healing themselves. The ongoing research into bio-self-healing concrete is focused on selecting bacterial strains that can withstand the extreme conditions within concrete, including its highly alkaline environment. The bacteria must also form resilient spores, remaining viable until they are needed for repair. Additionally, the study explores various challenges associated with this technology, such as the cost of production, the bacteria’s long-term viability, and their potential environmental impact. Advancements in genetic engineering and smart technology are being explored to enhance these bacterial strains, making them more efficient and robust in their role as microscopic repair agents. This review delves into the potential of bio-self-healing concrete to revolutionize how we approach infrastructure maintenance, offering a glimpse into a future where concrete structures not only endure but actively repair themselves, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for costly repairs.

One-Sentence Summary
Bio-self-healing concrete utilizes bacteria that activate upon crack formation to repair structures by producing calcium carbonate, offering a sustainable solution to prolong the lifespan of concrete infrastructure.
Public assistance and survival equality in patients with EGFR mutation-positive lung cancer
Authors: Uryu Kiyoaki , Imamura Yoshinori , Shimoyama Rai , Mase Takahiro , Fujimura Yoshiaki , Hayashi Maki , Ohtaki Megu , Otani Keiko , Hibino Makoto , Horiuchi Shigeto , Fukui Tomoya , Fukai Ryuta , Chihara Yusuke , Iwase Akihiko , Yamada Noriko , Tamura Yukihiro , Harada Hiromasa , Tsuya Asuka , Okabe Takafumi , Fukuoka Masahiro , Minami Hironobu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Disparities in public assistance or the urbanization level of a residential region can affect cancer treatment outcomes. This study aimed to investigate whether these factors affect the overall survival (OS) of patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using Tokushukai REAL World Data.

Methods
We analyzed the clinical data of consecutive patients with NSCLC receiving EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors between April 2010 and March 2020 at 46 Tokushukai Medical Group hospitals in Japan. The patient’s insurance coverage status was extracted from electronic medical records, and the urbanization level of residential regions was classified as megalopolis or other according to the secondary medical region. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to examine the associations between OS and patient/tumor/treatment/socioeconomic-related factors.

Results
In total, 758 patients (58.5% females) were included in the study; 41 patients (5.4%) received public assistance, and 442 patients (58.3%) were categorized under megalopolis in the secondary medical regions. In multivariate Cox regression analyses, there was no significant difference in the OS between non-recipients of public assistance and recipients [hazard ratio (HR) 1.084; 95% confidence intervals (CIs), 0.674–1.744]. There was also no significant difference in the OS between megalopolis and other regions in the secondary medical regions (HR 1.143; 95% CIs, 0.914–1.428).

Conclusions
Our findings suggest that neither the use of public assistance nor the urbanization level in the residential region significantly impacts the prognosis of Japanese patients with EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC.
Seasonal fluctuation of insecticide resistance mutation frequencies in field populations of Anopheles and Culex species in Korea
Authors: Lee Do Eun , Kim Heung-Chul , Klein Terry A , Lee Si Hyeock , Kim Ju Hyeon 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Members of the Anopheles Hyrcanus Group, Culex pipiens complex, and Culex tritaeniorhynchus are prevalent vector species in the Republic of Korea (ROK), transmitting Plasmodium vivax and various arboviruses. Extensive use of insecticides to control these mosquitoes has led to insecticide resistance. In this study, we monitored 3 target site mutations associated with insecticide resistance (kdr for pyrethroid resistance, ace1 for organophosphate resistance, and rdl for phenylpyrazole resistance) in these mosquito groups over four consecutive years to understand the seasonal dynamics of resistance in different areas with distinct ecological characteristics. In the Anopheles Hyrcanus Group, the frequencies of kdr and ace1 mutations exhibited seasonal fluctuations in an urban-rural complex area (Humphreys US Army Garrison) (hereafter Humphreys), suggesting an overwintering fitness cost, whereas the rdl mutation frequencies remained constant at nearly saturated levels. These patterns were less clear in rural areas (the demilitarized zone separating Korea), indicating area-specific profiles related to different insecticide usage patterns. The kdr and rdl mutation frequencies associated with the Cx. pipiens complex were relatively constant, but varied by the collection area, with higher rdl frequency in Humphreys and higher kdr frequency in Yongsan, a metropolitan area, suggesting different selection pressures. Overall resistance mutation frequencies were highest in Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, with ace1 and rdl mutations being seasonally saturated, while the kdr mutation frequency varied over time. Our findings demonstrate species- or group-specific seasonal and regional dynamic patterns of insecticide resistance, presenting the need for targeted control strategies and further improving the management of mosquito-borne diseases in the ROK.
Estimating the probability of multiple incidences of the same cancer type in a single workplace
Authors: Watanabe Sintaroo , Fukai Kota , Tatemichi Masayuki 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to estimate the probability of observing 2 cases of the same cancer type in a workplace with 300 employees, to help investigation of occupational cancer.

Methods
We assumed a workplace where chemicals are handled, employing 300 males aged 15 to 64, with an age distribution standardized to Japan’s population from 2016 to 2019. Using national cancer statistics for newly diagnosed cases among males in this age range and period, we calculated the expected number of cancer cases for the workplace over a 1- and 10-year period. We computed standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for 2 instances of the same cancer type within these time frames and estimated the time required for the SIR to reach 2.0 and its lower 95% CI limit (LL) to reach 1.0.

Results
The SIR for any cancer type exceeded 10 and was significantly high when 2 cases occurred within 1 year. Over 10 years, the SIR remained significantly high in some cancer types. The observation periods required for SIR to reach 2.0 and LL to reach 1.0 for any cancer type were at least 5.4 and at least 1.7 years, respectively.

Conclusions
Considering that over 99% of Japanese workplaces employ fewer than 300 people, the likelihood of observing the same cancer type within 1 year is low. This study enhances our understanding of occupational cancer incidence and supports the integration of such data into prevention strategies.
Corporate professional stratification in human resource management: a sequential multi-method Hong Kong and United Kingdom analysis
Authors: Higgins Paul , Roper Ian , Lo Man Fung 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The rise of corporate professions reignites a longstanding sociological debate concerning the structure of intra-professional relations within purportedly collegiate entities. However, unlike the classic case of independent professions, research has yet to examine how corporate professions stratify occupationally. The omission is surprising since the motivational prospect of corporate practitioners climbing an embedded career ladder engenders what one might reasonably refer to as ‘stratification by design’. Theoretically, while scholars demarcate several types of intra-professional relations within independent professions (e.g. extraction, protection, and imperialism), how far such arrangements transpose to a corporate professional context lacking occupational autonomy remains uncertain. Addressing the research gap, our study corroborates sequential multi-method Hong Kong and UK data to examine intra-professional stratification in human resource management, a role engendering a distinctly organizational rather than independent professionalizing form. Three discerning research questions guide our investigation. First, how are documented human resources (HR) certification criteria structured by membership level and competency composition? Second, to what extent do the stipulated competencies reflect empirical practice? Third, on what organizational, occupational, and demographic grounds do ‘elite’ HR practitioners claim superordinate status? Across both case contexts, our study finds that while strategic competencies assume a higher certification status than administrative competencies, preserving routine maintenance remains an indispensable organizational activity. The exception concerns a group of predominantly executive-level practitioners abstaining from administrative duties, raising questions about their functional integration, and whether the ascendancy of managerial logics over professional logics produces a compromised form of occupational imperialism.