bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Seismic collapse capacity analysis of degrading SDOF system with negative-positive-uncoupled stiffness mechanism
Authors: Liu Yue , Sun FeiFei , Xu DeFeng , Yang JiaQi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The negative-positive-uncoupled stiffness device (NPUSD) is a novel variable stiffness system recently proposed by the authors, which can efficiently and economically achieve the structural multi-level seismic fortification. The main objective of this research is to combine the NPUSD with the viscous damper in parallel to form an innovative negative-positive-uncoupled stiffness amplifying damper (NPUSAD), and to establish the collapse capacity spectra of a degrading single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) with additional NPUSAD under three different record sets. The study investigates the influence of parameters of the SDOF structural element and NPUSAD on the collapse capacity spectra of this system. The results indicate that the NPUSAD-SDOF system significantly enhances the collapse resistance of long-period structures, with improvements of 30%, 40%, and 50% under far-field non-impulsive, near-field non-impulsive, and near-field impulsive seismic record sets, respectively. Among the parameters of structural element, the ductility ratio, soften stiffness coefficient, and stability coefficient have a significant impact on the collapse capacity spectra, while for the NPUSAD parameters, the transition displacement ratio has a greater influence than the positive-to-negative stiffness ratio, which in turn has a greater influence than the connecting stiffness ratio.
Comparison of Metatranscriptomics and Targeted-sequencing Approaches for Comprehensive Microbiome Profiling
Authors: Destras G , Sabatier M , Bal A , Simon B , Semanas Q , Regue H , Boyer T , Ploin D , Gillet Y , Lina B , Anani H , Josset L 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Targeted-sequencing approaches, such as 16S gene profiling, viral metagenomics, and human mRNA sequencing are commonly performed for the exploration of the microbiome, yet their combination can be expensive and time-consuming. Metatranscriptomics provides a snapshot of the entire active microbiome trough bulk RNA sequencing in a single test, but lacks adequate comparisons with targeted-sequencing approaches. We compared metatranscriptomics and targeted sequencing methods focusing on bacterial, viral, and human components, from 20 nasopharyngeal aspirates from infants under 1 year old and hospitalized for bronchiolitis at the Hospices Civils de Lyon. RNA microbiome concordance reached 86% and 78% for RNA viruses and human coding genes, respectively. Patient clustering was comparable regarding 2650 host transcripts sequenced with metatranscriptomics and mRNA-Seq. Metatranscriptomics detected RNA of eukaryotic and prokaryotic DNA viruses, indicating potential for discerning replicative from latent DNA microbiome. Transcriptionally active bacteriome corresponded to 82% of bacteria exceeding 0.5% relative abundance, showing different transcriptional profiles depending on bacterial species. Multi-omics technologies enhance epidemiology, investigate trans-kingdom interactions, and provide opportunities to establish microbiome biomarkers. With sufficient depth of sequencing, metatranscriptomics complements and aligns with various aspects of targeted-sequencing approaches. Further clinical studies are essential to establish the position of metatranscriptomics in critical acute situations and cases of diagnostic uncertainty.
Malaria among febrile patients suspected of Yellow fever during an outbreak in Ghana
Authors: Mensah Lidiwan , Abdulai Anisa , Amegatcher Gloria , Pratt Deborah , Aduhene Evans , Ofori Magdalene Sarah Nketia , Sabtiu Abdul Rahim Mohammed , Adams Patience , Ketorwoley Prince , Owusu-Asenso Christopher Mfum , Eyeson Nana Aba Setorwu , Sagoe Kwamena William Coleman , Bonney Joseph Humphrey Kofi , Afrane Yaw Asare 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction Between October 2021 and February 2022, there was an outbreak of Yellow fever that spread within several districts in the northern part of Ghana. Febrile illnesses such as Yellow fever are often misdiagnosed as malaria and vice versa, which delays appropriate management and treatment. Hence, the true burden of Yellow fever and malaria are mostly underestimated. This study investigated the epidemiology of malaria in febrile patients suspected of Yellow fever in and around the epicenter of a Yellow fever outbreak in Ghana.Methods The study was a cross-sectional study conducted in two outbreak sites (Wenchi and Damongo) and two non-outbreak sites (Kumbungu and Tamale). A total of 498 febrile patients from healthcare facilities were recruited in the rainy and dry seasons. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect patients’ demographic information. Venous blood was collected from consented study participants for malaria parasite detection via microscopy and PCR. Total RNA was extracted from serum samples for the detection of yellow fever virus using Reverse Transcriptase PCR.Results None of the patients tested positive for Yellow fever virus. Out of the 498 participants tested for plasmodium parasites, 98 (19.7%) were microscopy positive while 92 (29.7%) were PCR positive. Plasmodium prevalence via microscopy was significantly higher in the dry season, 42 (18.67%) compared to the rainy season, 12 (4.4%) (P < 0.001). However, the difference in malaria prevalence via PCR in the rainy and dry seasons was not significant (P > 0.05). Kumbungu had the highest parasite prevalence by PCR during the dry (78.38%) and rainy (27.18%) seasons. Higher Plasmodium falciparum prevalence was observed using PCR compared to microscopy across all age groups. The age groups with the highest prevalence of P. falciparum were under five years (34.69%) and 5 to 9 years (35.56%). The differences in P. falciparum prevalence across the age groups were significant (P < 0.05).Conclusion High malaria prevalence was found in the study sites, affecting preschool and the school-aged children the most. Although Yellow fever was not detected, its overlap with malaria in Ghana, suggests the importance of enhancing surveillance for both diseases to better prevent and control
Exploring the association between Preeclampsia and antiphospholipid antibodies. New insights on the clinical criteria of APS. A prospective study
Authors: Grand Beatriz , Udry Sebastián , Avigliano Andrea , Alcántara Mónica González , Latino José Omar , Voto Liliana S. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives: to study prospectively the presence aPL on pregnant women at time of preeclampsia (PE) diagnosis in comparison with normal pregnant controls (I), to determine the association between aPL and diagnosis of severe preeclampsia and (II) to evaluate the association between the presence of aPL and severe preeclampsia before and after 34 weeks of gestations.
Study Design: This prospective, interventional, and analytical study included one hundred forty women who were tested for aPL during pregnancy and separated in 2 groups based on their diagnostic status of PE. Group 1: forty normal pregnant women studied for aPL beyond 20 weeks of pregnancy, followed until the birth of a full-term new-born baby and Group 2: one hundred women studied for aPL at the time of PE onset/diagnosis. We evaluated and compared rates of aPL positivity between Group 1 and 2.
Results: We compared the presence of aPL between group 1 10,0% (4/40) and group 2 34,0% (34/100). We found an association between severe PE and aPL positivity [OR= 4.63 (95% CI: 1.523 – 14.107), p=0.005]. We also found an association between LA and severe PE [OR= 6.0 (95% CI: 1.3466 – 26.7335), p=0.01].
We confirmed an association between early severe PE and the presence of aPL positivity [OR= 4,384 (95% CI: 1.3615 – 14.1206), p= 0.01]. We also found an association between late severe PE and the presence of aPL positivity [OR= 5.0 (95% CI: 1.4901 – 16.777), p= 0.008].
We compared the presence of aPL between patients with early severe PE 25,9% (19/58) and patients with late severe PE 23,8% (15/42). No significant association was found between the 2 groups. These results suggest that the positivity of aPL and gestational age are independent, and both related to their severity.
Conclusion: These results suggest that the presence of aPL is associated to the severe PE. The positivity of aPL is associated to the severity of PE, independently from gestational age. We suggest including the study aPL in women with severe PE independently of prematurity.
Imaging Features of Epithelial Lacrimal Gland Tumors: A Retrospective MRI Analysis of Benign and Malignant Lesions
Authors: You Cixing , Shrestha Palpasa , Ruan Xia , Chen Jun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
Lacrimal gland tumors are uncommon and encompass a diverse array of entities, including benign epithelial and lymphoid lesions, high-grade carcinomas, lymphomas, and sarcomas. Each presents significant variations in prognosis and clinical management. Our study aims to analyze the imaging signs of MRI examination of epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland and their differential diagnostic value.
Method
A retrospective study enrolled 42 patients with confirmed epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland who had surgery at Wuhan University People's Hospital from October 2015 to June 2024. Patients were categorized into benign pleomorphic adenoma and malignant tumor groups based on factors such as tumor size, morphology, boundary, signal, enhancement pattern, bone destruction, cystic change, and cuneiform sign Results
Benign pleomorphic adenoma (57.1%) was more common than malignant epithelial tumors (42.9%). The benign group had a lower age of onset and was more prevalent in females, while the malignant group showed the opposite pattern. Significant differences existed in size, morphology, borders, bone destruction, and cuneiform sign (P < 0.05). The malignant tumors often surpassed 3 cm, displayed irregular morphology and unclear borders, and were prone to bone destruction and cuneiform signs. The T2WI signal difference was also significant (P < 0.05), with malignant tumors primarily showing a mixed T2WI signal with a heterogeneous isometric signal.
Conclusion
MRI examination reveals the internal structure and relationship of epithelioid tumors in the lacrimal gland. It aids in the localization and diagnosis of benign pleomorphic adenoma and malignant epithelial tumors.
A Systematic Review of Structural Health Monitoring Using Artificial Neural Networks: From Traditional Neural Networks to Deep Learning Algorithms.
Authors: Atia Ahmed Eid Shible Mohamed , Vafaei Mohamedreza , Tee Kong Fah , Aliah Sophia C 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

With recent advances in neural network models and computational performance, structural health monitoring studies have shifted their methods from feature engineering or manual feature extraction to the use of machine learning models, especially neural networks and deep learning. The neural networks have been used for damage classification, feature extraction, dimensionality reduction, and image and 3D video-based inspection. Deep learning neural networks have shown a higher performance and accurate prediction and classification of the damage severity and location. This paper presents a detailed literature review of existing neural network-based applications in structural health monitoring and their main types, mathematical models, definitions, applications and feature extraction methods. This paper also surveyed the current literature in the context of implementation methods, quantification levels, neural network types, and mechanisms. A comparison of the performance of different deep learning neural networks and traditional neural networks is presented to help determine the neural network techniques for specific applications. It highlights the performance of deep learning algorithms and hybrid neural networks in terms of accuracy, data storage, and time complexity. The challenges facing structural health monitoring-based neural network applications can be summarized in main points, including but not limited to fully automated approaches, generalization of new data sets for population-based damage detection, model-associated problems, interpretability of the ANNs model, and real-time deployment.
Isolated ANCA-associated Scleritis Successfully Treated with Systemic Rituximab; a Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Tahavvori Mohammadreza , Fekri Sahba , Hassanpour Kiana , Sadoughi Mohammad-Mehdi , Javadi Mohammadali 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Necrotizing scleritis is one of the most destructive ocular manifestations of underlying systemic diseases that can lead to a variety of severe complications, including globe perforation or vision loss. Necrotizing scleritis can occur in various conditions, such as systemic vasculitis like Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) Associated vasculitis (AAV), systemic autoimmune disorders, infections, or as a result of surgical procedures.
Case presentation
In this case report, we present a patient with acute bilateral isolated necrotizing sclerokeratitis associated with positive c-ANCA without any manifestation of other organ involvement. A 52-year-old man with acute anterior bilateral necrotizing scleritis with diffuse areas of necrosis, thinning of the sclera, and the choroidal show was observed which was impending perforation on both sides. Systemic medications, including intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide, and topical medications were administered. However, due to an incomplete response to these drugs, intravenous rituximab was initiated. Significant improvements in clinical manifestations were initiated after treatment with Rituximab.
Conclusion
Our case highlights the importance of systemic rituximab therapy in treating isolated ANCA-associated necrotizing scleritis when initial immunosuppressive treatments are not fully effective.
Patenting Propensity in Italy: A Machine Learning Approach to Regional Clustering
Authors: Leogrande Angelo , Drago Carlo , Mallardi Giulio , Costantiello Alberto , Magaletti Nicola 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This article focuses on the propensity to patent across Italian regions, considering data from ISTAT-BES between 2004 and 2019 to contribute to analyzing regional gaps and determinants of innovative performances. Results show how the North-South gap in innovative performance has persisted over time, confirming the relevance of research intensity, digital infrastructure, and cultural employment on patenting activity. These relations have been analyzed using the panel data econometric model. It allows singling out crucial positive drivers like R&D investment or strongly negative factors, such as limited mobility of graduates. More precisely, given the novelty of approaches applied in the used model, the following contributions are represented: first, the fine grain of regional differentiation, from which the sub-national innovation system will be observed. It also puts forward a set of actionable policy recommendations that would contribute to more substantial inclusive innovation, particularly emphasizing less-performing regions. By focusing on such dynamics, this study will indirectly address how regional characteristics and policies shape innovation and technological competitiveness in Italy. Therefore, it contributes to the debate on regional systems of innovation and their possible role in economic development in Europe since the economic, institutional, and technological conditions are differentiated between various areas in Italy.
JEL CODE: O3, O31, O32, O33, O34.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Routine and Recommended Adult Vaccination Rates Among US Adults, National Health Interview Survey 2018
Authors: Jamal Armaan , Jamal Shanaiya 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Reducing racial/ethnic disparities in vaccination rates is a significant goal of Healthy People 2030. This study aims to examine adult vaccination rates by race/ethnicity and sex in the United States. We evaluated the vaccination rate of influenza, tetanus-diphtheria (Td), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, pneumococcal, shingles, and human papillomavirus (HPV) using 2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data by race/ethnicity. Our sample included 53,647 participants, and we categorized race/ethnicity as White (n = 36,245), Black (n = 5,861), Hispanic (n = 8,219), and Asian (n = 3,322). Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the association between race/ethnicity and vaccination coverage, controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related variables. We also stratified the multivariate logistic regressions by race/ethnicity and sex. Influenza, Td, hepatitis A, pneumococcal, and shingles vaccination coverage differed by race/ethnicity. After adjusting for key covariates, racial/ethnic disparities in vaccination persisted for all vaccines examined. Racial disparities in vaccination coverage persisted when stratifying by sex for all vaccines. Black males had lower odds of receiving the HPV and Td vaccine than White males (OR range: 0.53–0.78). Black females had lower odds of receiving the HPV, pneumococcal, and Td vaccine than White females while Hispanic and Asian females had lower odds of receiving the Td vaccine than White females (OR range: 0.52–0.76). Racial/ethnic and sex differences in vaccination levels narrow when adjusting for factors analyzed in the NHIS but are not eliminated, suggesting the need for efforts to achieve equity in immunization rates as well as increasing vaccination rates across all populations.
The Impact of SEC Comment Letters on Stock Returns: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Hassan Amira , Greenman Cindy , Olsen David 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of SEC comment letters on stock returns, focusing on their informational value and influence on investor behavior. SEC comment letters, issued to publicly traded companies, serve as regulatory tools to address deficiencies in corporate disclosures, enhancing transparency and compliance. By leveraging advanced natural language processing models, including FinBERT, VADER, and LMSentimentScore, this research evaluates the sentiment and thematic classifications of comment letters to assess their effect on market dynamics. The analysis encompasses thousands of SEC comment letters categorized into 11 distinct themes, paired with stock performance metrics to quantify their impact on returns. Findings reveal that sentiment scores, particularly from financial-specific models, exhibit a measurable but limited effect on stock price movements. Thematic content, such as issues related to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Legal and Regulatory Compliance, demonstrates significant correlations with market reactions, highlighting the contextual relevance of specific categories. Additionally, the frequency of SEC filings is shown to moderate stock return volatility, with high-frequency filers experiencing reduced market sensitivity. This research contributes to the literature on financial regulation and market efficiency by integrating sentiment analysis and thematic categorization, offering insights into the nuanced effects of regulatory disclosures on stock performance. The findings underscore the role of SEC comment letters as critical instruments in maintaining market integrity and guiding investor expectations.
Production, Exports, and R&amp;D Strategies: A Dynamic and Heterogeneous Analysis
Authors: Wu Ruohan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This paper develops a dynamic model of firms with heterogeneous production levels making optimal decisions regarding exports and R&D investment, and both choices endogenously affect firms’ production growth. In a closed economy, firms determine how much to invest in one of two R&D strategies: independent innovation or dependent imitation. In an open economy, firms decide not only on R&D investment but also on whether and how much to export. To comprehensively capture firm-level growth dynamics, the model incorporates both self-selection and learning-by-exporting mechanisms. Our model identifies production thresholds which determine whether firms choose to export, and whether to imitate or to innovate. As expected, only sufficiently productive firms choose to export. Notably, the most productive non-exporters choose to innovate, while the most productive exporters prefer imitation. Additionally, as firms become more productive, they tend to reduce both their R&D investment and the proportion of production they export. This paper then moves further to seek for support from the empirical evidence. Based on panel data of global firms observed from 2011 to 2019, multiple tests robustly support these theoretical findings, confirming that complex multilateral relationships exist among firms’ production, exports, and R&D strategies. The paper concludes with a discussion of findings and policy implications.
JEL codes: F14; F17; O12; O33; D22
Effect of ahfad2 genes on oil profile of advanced breeding lines in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Paul P. Jashuva , Srivid Akkareddy , Pandey Manish K , Spandana B. , Gundrathi Sree Vidya , Killada Girish Kumar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Groundnut oil is a popular and important cooking oil, known for its good taste and health benefits. One of the key factors determining the quality of groundnut oil is its fatty acid composition, particularly the levels of oleic acid (a healthy monounsaturated fat) versus linoleic acid (a polyunsaturated fat). Increasing oleic acid in groundnut oil improves its nutritional value and helps the oil stay fresh longer by reducing rancidity. This study focuses on understanding how mutations in two key genes, ahFAD2A and ahFAD2B, affect the levels of oleic and linoleic acid in groundnut. The goal is to identify new groundnut lines with higher oleic acid content, which could benefit both consumers and farmers.
Materials and Methods
We examined 100 F6 Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) of groundnut, chosen from 350 lines created in a high oleic acid breeding initiative at RARS, Tirupati, ANGRAU Three common groundnut varieties—TAG 24, Dheeraj, and Visishta—were crossed with ICGV 181024, a donor with a high oleic acid content, to create these lines. Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS), a sensitive and effective method, was used to analyze the oil content and fatty acid profiles (oleic acid, linoleic acid, and others). We tracked changes in the ahFAD2A and ahFAD2B genes using Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) to comprehend the genetic basis of oil composition.
Results
Our results showed that genetic variations in the ahFAD2 genes play a key role in determining the oil’s fatty acid composition. Out of all the RILs, 24 lines had oleic acid levels above 70%, which is considered high for groundnut. The ahFAD2B mutation had the most significant impact, with lines carrying this mutation averaging 53.42% oleic acid, compared to 37.92% for lines with the ahFAD2A mutation. This suggests that ahFAD2B is more effective at boosting oleic acid. Interestingly, selecting for the ahFAD2B mutation alone was just as effective as selecting for both genes, making the breeding process quicker and easier. Four lines—RIL 16, RIL 18, RIL 71, and RIL 86—stood out with oleic acid levels above 70% and an oleic/linoleic acid ratio over 9. These lines hold great potential for producing stable, long-lasting oils that benefit both the industry and consumers.