bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Productivity of Opportunity Crops across Africa under Climate Change in Support of the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils
Authors: Guarin Jose , Yang Meijian , MacCarthy Dilys , Karl Kevin , Jägermeyr Jonas , Ruane Alex , Castellano Andres , Freduah Bright , Wesley Gershom , Narh Stephen , Leal Elena Mendez , Rosenzweig Cynthia 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Addressing future agricultural challenges requires breeding cultivars with improved tolerance to evolving climatic conditions. Many African traditional and indigenous "opportunity crops" have demonstrated increased resilience to climate hazards, yet have received minimal developmental investment. Here, the SIMPLE process-based crop model is used to assess the impact of future climate change on the productivity of 5 staple crops and 19 African opportunity crops under low and high emissions scenario projections. Roots/tubers show the highest resiliency while vegetables are the most vulnerable. Cassava, teff, grass pea, sesame seed, and finger millet are projected to have the largest productivity increases, while mung bean, lablab, amaranth, Bambara groundnut, and maize productivity are projected to decrease significantly. Crops grown in the Sahel appear most susceptible to climate change, while crops in East and Central Africa demonstrate greater resilience. These findings guide regional investments in opportunity crop development and support their inclusion in adaptation measures.
The Goldilocks Days: optimising the older adults' time-use to prevent obesity, low fitness, risk and fear of falling.
Authors: Vindiš Jan , Pelclová Jana , Jašková Paulína , Hron Karel 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study introduces the concept of the "Goldilocks Day" – the optimal 24-hour time-use of intensity- or posture-specific composition specifically tailored for young (65–70 years) and old (> 70 years) older adults. We aimed (1) to optimal 24-hour time-use of compositions for each health outcome, and (2) identify the 'Goldilock Day' for all outcomes together. This approach, involving backwards pivot coordinates (bpcs), we provide a clearer interpretation of physical behavior data, offering practical insights for healthy aging. Data were collected from 309 older adults (65 + years) in Czechia, using accelerometers worn. Both intensity-specific (sedentary behavior - SB, light physical activity - LPA, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity - MVPA, and sleep) and posture-specific behaviors (lying, sitting, standing, moving, and walking) were assessed. Health outcomes included BMI, fall risk, fear of falling, physical fitness, usual gait speed, and lower extremity strength. Compositional regression models, based on the bpcs, were used to assess the relationships between time-use and these outcomes. In younger older adults, the time-use composition for optimal BMI included 7.5 hours of sleep, 12.0 hours of SB, 3.2 hours of LPA, and 1.4 hours of MVPA. Old older adults displayed slightly lower MVPA (1.0 hour) and increased SB (12.8 hours). Generally, higher MVPA and lower SB were associated with better physical fitness and reduced fear of falling. The optimal "Goldilocks Day" for both age groups highlighted the benefits of higher physical activity and reduced sedentary time, with significant implications for personalized health recommendations and improved health outcomes in Czech older adults.
Methodology for fatigue life maximization of a ship by minimizing fatigue induce stress values at hot spots
Authors: Kapnopoulou Vaso K. , Samuelides Manolis S. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The fatigue life of a ship is as high as the fatigue life of its most vulnerable connection. In the present study it is sought to extend the fatigue life of a ship by extending the fatigue life of its hot spot locations. The ship structural details studied are approached at a macroscopic level and a novel two-step approach methodology is proposed that aims in minimizing the fatigue-induce stress values developed at hot spot locations. Therefore, fatigue life is maximized. This is attained by developing and solving structural optimization problems. The methodology is implemented into three separate ship structural details at a Bulk Carrier; the lower hopper knuckle connection, the lower side frame bracket toe and the side framing bracket to upper sloping connection. The steps of the methodology proposed include: (a) the identification of fatigue-induce stress component, (b) picking out critical structural member(s) of the connections, (c) implement modifications by setting up and solving a size optimization problem for the details studied (1st step), and (d) implement geometry modifications by setting up and solving a topology optimization problem for the details studied (2nd step). Fatigue analyses are conducted in both steps in order to appraise the changes implemented. The implementation of the proposed methodology manages to increase the fatigue life of the connections up to 17.24 years.
Feasibility and Efficacy of Real-time Teleresistance Exercise Programs for Physical Function in Elderly Patients After Hip Fracture Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dajpratham Piyapat , Komas Jidapa , Yamthed Rungsima , Chanthon Prasertphon , Kovintaset Kriangkrai , Claikhem Thaniyaporn , Unnanuntana Aasis , Vanitcharoenkul Ekasame , Srinonpras Varalak , Sura-amonrattana Unchana 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Hip fractures substantially impair quality of life and functional outcomes in elderly individuals. With incidence rates rising globally and in Thailand, effective rehabilitation strategies are crucial. This study evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of teleresistance exercise programs compared with traditional exercise booklets in elderly patients following hip fracture surgery.
Methods
A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted. Elderly patients aged 60 to 90 years who had undergone hip fracture surgery were randomized into two groups. The intervention group received a 12-week teleresistance exercise program, whereas the control group followed an exercise booklet. The primary outcome was the short physical performance battery (SPPB). The secondary outcomes were the two-minute walk test (2MWT) score, knee extension strength, and anxiety level.
Results
Thirty-three participants with a mean age of 76.8 years (SD 8.6) were enrolled. At 12 weeks, the intervention group presented significant improvements in SPPB scores compared with those of the control group (P = 0.040). There were no significant differences in 2MWT, knee extension strength or anxiety scores between the groups. The improvements in SPPB and 2MWT scores for the intervention group surpassed the minimal clinically important difference.
Conclusions
Compared with traditional exercise booklets, teleresistance exercise programs significantly enhance physical function in elderly patients following hip fracture surgery. This method offers a feasible and effective alternative to standard rehabilitation approaches. Future research should explore long-term effects and refine exercise protocols for telerehabilitation.
Trial registration:
Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20220123001/ 2022-01-21)
Transcriptome-Based Analysis Reveals Relationship between Duck Eggshell Color and Eggshell Strength
Authors: Wang Longxin , Liu Hehe , Yu Simeng , Lu Meixi , Zhang Yunsheng , Wang Shuaiqin , Hou Shuisheng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
The strength of duck eggshells is essential for their storage, transportation, and processing, with various studies indicating a correlation between eggshell color and strength.
Results
Our research has demonstrated that green-shelled duck eggs exhibit higher eggshell strength compared to white-shelled eggs in the M2 Line Pekin Duck population. To this end, we established mRNA transcriptome profiles of 10 eggshell gland tissues and 10 liver tissues and constructed gene expression networks in the two tissues. RNA-Seq analysis suggests that genes associated with ion transport, transmembrane transport, and liver cell proliferation and differentiation in the eggshell gland could play important roles in eggshell formation. The liver of green shell duck has stronger cell proliferation ability to maintain its homeostasis, and the eggshell gland has stronger ability to secrete eggshell matrix protein, which may be the reason why the eggshell is stronger than that of white shell duck. Through Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), three related modules were found in eggshell gland and liver, respectively, and three key genes were screened in each tissue (eggshell gland: FKBP10, PPARG, MAP3K5, liver: PHLDA1, FLT3, CACNB4). They have important regulatory effects on eggshell color and eggshell strength respectively.
Conclusions
Through transcriptome sequencing of liver and eggshell gland of Pekin duck, multiple key genes regulating eggshell color and strength were screened, and finally a related gene network was constructed. These genes may participate in the regulation of eggshell formation through ion transport, transmembrane transport, and cell proliferation, which helps to fully understand the differences in eggshell formation between green-shelled duck and white-shelled duck.
IL13RA2-integrated genetically engineered mouse model allows for CAR T cells targeting pediatric high-grade gliomas
Authors: Seblani Maggie , Zannikou Markella , Duffy Joseph , Levine Rebecca , Thakur Aditi , Vallcorba Montserrat Puigdelloses- , Horbinski Crag , Miska Jason , Hambardzumyan Dolores , Becher Oren , Balyasnikova Irina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) and pediatric diffuse midline gliomas (pDMG) are devastating diseases without durable and curative options. Although targeted immunotherapy has shown promise, the field lacks immunocompetent animal models to study these processes in detail. To achieve this, we developed a fully immunocompetent, genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM) for pDMG and pHGG that incorporates the glioma-associated antigen, interleukin 13 receptor alpha 2 (IL13RA2). Utilizing the RCAS-Tva delivery system in Nestin-Tva mice, we induced gliomagenesis by overexpressing PDGFB and deleting p53 (p53fl/fl) or both p53 and PTEN (p53fl/fl PTENfl/fl), with or without IL13RA2 in neonatal mice. De novo tumors developed in models with and without IL13RA2, showing no statistical difference in onset (n = 33, 38 days, p = 0.62). The p53fl/fl PTENfl/fl tumors displayed more aggressive characteristics (n = 12, 31 days). Tumors exhibited features typical of high-grade glioma, including infiltration, pseudopalisading necrosis, and microvascular proliferation. They also showed a high Ki-67 index, variable IL13RA2 expression, a high frequency of CD11b + macrophages, and a low proportion of CD3 + T cells. The model proved effective for evaluating IL13RA2-targeted immunotherapies, with a significant response to CAR T-cell treatment that extended survival (46 days vs. 28 days control; p < 0.0001) and achieved 25% long-term survival in mice. This model facilitates the preclinical assessment of IL13RA2-directed therapies and holds potential for clinical application.
Analysis of QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus assay in Children and Adolescents with Latent and Active Tuberculosis in China
Authors: Zheng Huiwen , Yu Yanhong , Wang Yonghong , Guo Yajie , Wang Yang , Li Feina , Xiao Jing , Qi Hui , Jiao Weiwei , Chen Yu , Sun Lin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the accuracy of QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) assay, and analyze the quantitative interferon gamma (IFN-γ) responses to tuberculosis (TB) antigens and mitogen in children and adolescents with active TB and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in China.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted among patients <25 years old with suspected active TB or screened for LTBI. All patients underwent QFT-Plus tests at Beijing Children’s Hospital and Shenyang Chest Hospital from August 2022 to March 2024. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from their electronic medical record.
Results
A total of 18482 patients were recruited, including 179 (1.0%) patients with active TB disease, 334 (1.8%) LTBI and 17969 (97.2%) non-TB disease. The 5.8% (176/18482) patients had indeterminate results. The overall sensitivity for active TB was 83.4%, and specificity was 98.0%. The percent agreement between TB1 and TB2 was 90.3%. The IFN-γ production in response to mitogen and TB antigens observed among children <1 year of age was lower than that among other age groups. There was significant positive correlation between age and IFN-γ responses to mitogen, but negative correlation between age and IFN-γ responses to TB1 and TB2 antigen. Besides, there was no significant difference in response to QFT-Plus TB antigens in active TB and LTBI cases.
Conclusion
QFT-Plus assay is accurate in children and adolescents with active TB. IFN-γ responses to mitogen and MTB antigens are significantly affected by age. The new antigen tube TB2 increases the assay sensitivity.
Modified Myocardial Performance Indexis Not Associated with Adverse Perinatal Outcome in Late Onset Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Isguder Cigdem Kunt , Unlu Nisa , Ayvaci Habibe , Pektas Mine Kanat , Kurt Didar , Tug Niyazi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between adverse fetal outcomes and modified myocardial performance index (MPI) values in pregnancies with late-onset fetal growth restriction (FGR).
Methods: This is a case-control review of 70 pregnancies with late onset FGR and 42 pregnancies with appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses. Data related with maternal characteristics, ultrasonography findings and perinatal outcomes were recorded. An adverse perinatal outcome was determined with at least one of the following: stillbirth, neonatal death, any Apgar score <7, need for neonatal resuscitation, umbilical cord pH <7.1, and admission to neonatal intensive care unit.
Results: Fetuses with late onset growth restriction exhibited a considerably higher umbilical artery pulsatility index (PI) than AGA fetuses (p=0.001). These fetuses also had significantly higher ductus venosus A wave but significantly lower preload index and peak velocity index than AGA fetuses (p=0.017, p=0.016 and p=0.038 respectively). The fetuses with growth restriction and AGA fetuses were statistically similar in aspect of modified MPI values. Adverse fetal outcome was observed in 35 pregnancies (31.3%). When compared to the pregnancies with adverse fetal outcomes, those with favorable fetal outcomes had statistically similar modified MPI values but significantly lower uterine artery PI (p=0.016).
Conclusion: There was no significant difference in modified MPI values of fetuses with late-onset growth restriction and AGA fetuses. Moreover, modified MPI values did not differ significantly in pregnancies with adverse fetal outcome and those with favorable fetal outcome. These findings can be regarded as evidence for the mildness and latency of myocardial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of late onset FGR.
Clinical Observation of Early Postoperative Wear of Balafilcon A and Innovative First-Generation Samfilcon A Silicone Hydrogel Bandage Contact Lenses after SMILE Surgery
Authors: Hu Shisi , Ding Hui , Chen Xiaodan , Li Shanxiang , Yang Zhenduo , Zhong Xingwu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the efficacy of two different silicone hydrogel bandage contact lenses on ocular surface after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery.
Methods: In this prospective, double-masked, contralateral, comparative clinical study, 25 patients who received SMILE in both eyes wore two different silicone hydrogel bandage contact lenses (BCLs): balafilcon A in one eye and samfilcon A in the other randomly. The scores of BCL deposits on the lens surface and the level of ocular discomfort were assessed on the first day after surgery. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), the 5-Item Dry Eye Questionnaire (DEQ-5), corneal sensitivity, ocular surface parametersand tear inflammatory mediators were assessed preoperatively and 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month postoperatively.
Results: The scores of BCL deposits were lower in the samfilcon A group than that in the balafilcon A group (samfilcon A vs. balafilcon A: 1.28±0.68 vs. 2.56±0.82, P=0.045). There were no significant differences in subjective symptoms scores, OSDI scores, DEQ-5 scores, corneal sensitivity, ocular surface parameters or tear inflammatory mediators between the BCLs postoperatively (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Both samfilcon A and balafilcon A contact lenses are safe with equivalent efficacy on ocular surface after SMILE. Samfilcon A caused significantly less deposits after SMILE.
Integration of temperature-sensitive hydrogels loaded with realgar and magnetic particles for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Jiang Tao , Huang Zhifei , Reng Mingdong , Ma Yuwei , Gao Bo , Song Shilong , Liu Fei , Zhang Xiangyu , Huang Jingwen , He Zelai , Zhang Huijun , Ma Jing , Wang Gengming 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Lung cancer has a high incidence rate and a poor prognosis with traditional treatments like surgery and radiotherapy, necessitating the active exploration of new treatment methods. Realgar (AS4S4), a traditional Chinese medicine, has chemotherapeutic efficacy. However, its low solubility, complex dosage form, and single therapeutic efficacy limit its further application in modern medicine. To monitor tumors and combine magnetic induction thermotherapy, magnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) particles were introduced, and a local injection therapy system was developed by combining the two with a temperature-sensitive hydrogel. Methods: AS4S4 was chemically synthesized using hydrochloric acid to disrupt the bonding between AS and NH2 to obtain andrography nanoclusters, which improved the solubility and reduced the toxic side reactions. Furthermore, Fe3O4 nanoparticles were introduced, and the two performance nanomaterials were combined using a smart temperature-sensitive hydrogel to construct a locally injected nanodiagnostic therapy with fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging dual-modal imaging-guided chemotherapy and magneto-induced thermotherapy combined unit (AS4S4/Fe3O4@Gel). Results: Characterization results showed that the hydrogel exhibited satisfactory temperature sensitivity, 85% controlled drug release at 42 oC, and good biocompatibility. The results of cellular experiments showed that AS4S4/Fe3O4@Gel induced apoptosis and iron death in lung cancer cells, while the combination with magnetic induction hyperthermia (ACMF) significantly inhibited tumor cell proliferation. In a mouse model of transplanted tumors in Holland Lewis cells, AS4S4/Fe3O4@Gel showed good fluorescence properties and magneto-thermal effects. The combined ACMF group exerted better antitumor effects than the negative control group. Conclusion: The AS4S4/Fe3O4@Gel prepared in this study can exert synergistic antitumor activity in combination with ACMF under bimodal imaging guidance, and it is a potential means of clinical treatment for lung cancer.
Application of the Cramer Method for the Prediction of Geotechnical Parameters of Soils in the Intertropical Zone in Road Construction.
Authors: MENYE Alain Justin , MBESSA Michel , BILONG Paul 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Geotechnical road construction work requires many tests that integrate several parameters, which can be reduced by predictions. This paper establishes the prediction through the Cramer multiple linear regression technique of the modified Proctor parameters and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) parameters in function of Fines and Atterberg limits, lateritic materials developed on metamorphic rocks. The parameters such as Maximum Dry Density (MDD), Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and CBR index as a function of unknown %fines (˂80µm), Plasticity Index (PI) and Liquid limit (LL), were determined. This study in soil mechanics shows that, the CBR (13 to 53) and MDD (1.5 to 2.1 g/cm3) increase as the percentage of fines (75 to 12%) in the soil decreases. These CBR values can be used for backfill and foundation layers of traffic T1 to T2/T3. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) reveals the presence of three classes C1 (LL, PL and OMC), C2 (˂80µm) and C3 (CBR and MDD), representing two families of related parameters in C1 and C3 respectively. The multiple determination coefficients obtained are 0.998 with R2 = 0.996 for MDD; 0.991 with R2 = 0.982 for OMC and 0.98 with R2 = 0.97 for a CBR at 95% of optimum respectively, indicating an excellent correlation. This prediction helps to handle smaller quantities of materials, save time, reduce energy expenditure and the cost of analyses and field campaigns.
Ensemble Runoff Forecasting Based on Multiple Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Wan Xinyu , Wang Xinyu , Lyu Kun , Li Yixuan , Zhao Fangzheng , Xue Yuting , Shi Weiyi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The accuracy of runoff forecasting is influenced by factors, such as the type of prediction model and parameter settings. To account for these uncertainties and leverage the strengths of different runoff forecasting models, in this study, we developed an ensemble forecasting model. It assigned combination weights to each model based on its prediction accuracy, improving the accuracy of short-term runoff forecasts. Using daily runoff data from the Dongqiaoyuan Hydrological Station in the Rongjiang River Basin, China, six runoff forecasting models were established by coupling ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) and empirical mode decomposition (EMD) with a Backpropagation Neural Network, convolutional neural network, and support vector machine. Two ensemble methods, namely, the optimal weighting method and stacking algorithm, were applied to the EMD- and EEMD-based coupled models, respectively, and their predictive performances were comparatively analyzed. Different data preprocessing methods significantly affected the performances of both the individual and ensemble models. The ensemble models had a considerable reduction in the root mean square error and mean absolute percentage error. The random forest stacking ensemble model showed the highest improvement and prediction accuracy. The model greatly enhances the prediction accuracy of large flows in the Rongjiang River Basin, meeting the needs for short-term forecasting. It can effectively support runoff prediction during extreme environmental changes in the river basin. Additionally, it serves as a valuable reference for enhancing ensemble prediction outcomes in runoff forecasting.