bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Process-Dependent Solute Transport in Porous Media
Authors: Erfani Hamidreza , Karadimitriou Nikolaos , Nissan Alon , Walczak Monika S. , An Senyou , Berkowitz Brian , Niasar Vahid 
Published: October 2021

AbstractSolute transport under single-phase flow conditions in porous micromodels was studied using high-resolution optical imaging. Experiments examined loading (injection of ink-water solution into a clear water-filled micromodel) and unloading (injection of clear water into an ink-water filled micromodel). Statistically homogeneous and fine-coarse porous micromodels patterns were used. It is shown that the transport time scale during unloading is larger than that under loading, even in a micromodel with a homogeneous structure, so that larger values of the dispersion coefficient were obtained for transport during unloading. The difference between the dispersion values for unloading and loading cases decreased with an increase in the flow rate. This implies that diffusion is the key factor controlling the degree of difference between loading and unloading transport time scales, in the cases considered here. Moreover, the patterned heterogeneity micromodel, containing distinct sections of fine and coarse porous media, increased the difference between the transport time scales during loading and unloading processes. These results raise the question of whether this discrepancy in transport time scales for the same hydrodynamic conditions is observable at larger length and time scales.
Benthic macroinvertebrates as reference indicators for monitoring of anthropogenic isotope 137Cs contamination in the marine environment
Authors: Saniewski Michał , Zalewska Tamara , Kraśniewski Wojciech 
Published: October 2021

AbstractDue to the limited studies dealing with isotopes levels in benthic macroinvertebrates other than Mytilus sp. in period 2011–2018, macroinvertebrates and seawater samples from the southern Baltic Sea were collected. Activity of 137Cs was measured in most common benthic macroinvertebrates inhabiting southern Baltic Sea in the context of choosing the best bioindicators. Taking into account the narrow range of CR coefficients, statistically significant correlation between 137Cs activities in seawater and species, a high frequency of occurrence and thus high biomass and the common occurrence, only Limecola balthica could potentially serve as indicators for shallow and deep-sea areas accordingly. Widely spread Mytillus trossulus was characterised by large size variability in samples and shows no significant correlation between activities in species and seawater and appears not so common as L. balthica.
Preventing Violence through Participation in Community Building in Youth
Authors: Cheung Chau-kiu 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Youth’s participation in community service is a proposed but uncharted way to prevent their violent perpetration. To clarify the preventive function, this study analyzes two-wave panel survey data on 1,710 Chinese youths in Hong Kong according to empowerment theory. Specifically, the theory posits that empowerment functions when it targets youth plagued by powerlessness. Two hypothesized conditions of relative powerlessness are being female and living in poor housing. Results support the hypotheses when participation in community service appeared to prevent violent perpetration, and the prevention was greater under the two powerless conditions. These results importantly emerged with the control for prior violent perpetration and adjustment for selectivity into the participation. The results thus imply the value of inviting youth to participate in community service to prevent their violent perpetration. The invitation can target youth who are female or residing in poor housing.
A New Method for a Shorter and Valid Assessment of Olfactory Threshold in Repeated Measurement Designs Based on the Sniffin’ Sticks Test
Authors: Beutler Sarah , Ladner Liliana R. , Hummel Thomas , Croy Ilona 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Introduction
The Sniffin’ Sticks threshold test is widely used to assess olfactory threshold due to its high reliability and validity. Nevertheless, this test procedure is quite long with an average duration of 10 to 20 min. In study designs that require multiple olfactory threshold tests on short intervals, this could exhaust participants. To counteract this limitation, we developed the informed-four-reversal (INFOUR) short version of the Sniffin’ Sticks threshold test for repeated measurement designs and piloted it in a sample of normosmic participants.

Methods
Forty-two participants performed the original Sniffin’ Sticks version before being assigned either to the control group that repeated the original version or to the test group that conducted the INFOUR short version.

Results
The correlation between the original version at T1 and INFOUR at T2 was r = .75 and did not differ significantly from the retest reliability of the original version. Compared to the original version, the INFOUR took 42% less time to perform.

Conclusion
The INFOUR leads to a significant time saving, while maintaining good validity.

Implications
Therefore, this approach has the potential to be a useful tool for study protocols with repeated olfactory threshold measurements. In particular, when research protocols are time intensive or testing needs to the shortened, because the interventional effects are short or subtle.
Characterization of hydrothermal alteration along geothermal wells using unsupervised machine-learning analysis of X-ray powder diffraction data
Authors: Ishitsuka Kazuya , Ojima Hiroki , Mogi Toru , Kajiwara Tatsuya , Sugimoto Takeshi , Asanuma Hiroshi 
Published: October 2021

AbstractZonal distribution of hydrothermal alteration in and around geothermal fields is important for understanding the hydrothermal environment. In this study, we assessed the performance of three unsupervised classification algorithms—K-mean clustering, the Gaussian mixture model, and agglomerative clustering—in automated categorization of alteration minerals along wells. As quantitative data for classification, we focused on the quartz indices of alteration minerals obtained from rock cuttings, which were calculated from X-ray powder diffraction measurements. The classification algorithms were first examined by applying synthetic data and then applied to data on rock cuttings obtained from two wells in the Hachimantai geothermal field in Japan. Of the three algorithms, our results showed that the Gaussian mixture model provides classes that are reliable and relatively easy to interpret. Furthermore, an integrated interpretation of different classification results provided more detailed features buried within the quartz indices. Application to the Hachimantai geothermal field data showed that lithological boundaries underpin the data and revealed the lateral connection between wells. The method’s performance is underscored by its ability to interpret multi-component data related to quartz indices.
Recombinant Avian β-Defensin Produced by Food-Grade Lactococcus as a Novel and Potent Immunological Enhancer Adjuvant for Avian Vaccine
Authors: Wang Tingting , Wang Zhihao , Mi Jielan , Wang Wenqian , Li Kai , Qi Xiaole , Gao Yulong , Gao Li , Liu Changjun , Zhang Yanping , Pan Qing , Wang Xiaomei , Cui Hongyu 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIn this study, we expressed rAvBD1-2–6-13 protein throughLactococcus lactisNZ3900, and the effects of the recombinantL. lactisNZ3900 as an immune enhancer and immune adjuvant were verified using in vivo and in vitro tests. In vitro tests revealed that recombinantL. lactisNZ3900 significantly activated the NF-κB signaling pathway and IRF signaling pathway in J774-Dual™ report cells and significantly increased the transcript levels of IL-10, IL-12p70, CD80, and CD86 in chicken PBMCs and chicken HD11 cells. In vivo experiments revealed that the immunized group supplemented with recombinantL. lactisNZ3900 as an adjuvant had significantly higher serum antibody titers and higher proliferative activity of PBMCs in the blood of the chickens immunized with NDV live and inactivated vaccines. Our study shows that the recombinantL. lactisNZ3900 has strong immunomodulatory activity both in vivo and in vitro and is a potential immune enhancer. Our work lays the foundation for the research and development of new animal immune enhancers for application in the poultry industry.
The Effect of Feed Supplementation with EM Bokashi® Multimicrobial Probiotic Preparation on Selected Parameters of Sow Colostrum and Milk as Indicators of the Specific and Nonspecific Immune Response
Authors: Jarosz Łukasz , Ciszewski Artur , Marek Agnieszka , Grądzki Zbigniew , Kaczmarek Beata , Rysiak Anna 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe aim of the study was to determine the effect of EM Bokashi® on selected parameters of the specific and nonspecific immune response of sows by in colostrum and milk samples. The percentage of cells with expression of CD19+, CD5+CD19+, CD21+, SWC3a (macrophage/monocyte), and CD11b+molecules on the monocytes and granulocytes as well as the concentrations of lysozyme and acute phase proteins — serum amyloid-A (SAA) and haptoglobin (Hp) were evaluated. The study was carried out on a commercial pig farm, including 150 sows (Polish Large White × Polish Landrace) at the age of 2–4 years. Sixty female sows were divided into two groups: I — control and II — experimental. For the experimental group, a probiotic in the form of the preparation EM Bokashi® in the amount of 10 kg/tonne of feed was added to the basal feed from mating to weaning. The material for the study consisted of colostrum and milk. The samples were collected from all sows at 0, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 h after parturition. The study showed that exposure of the pregnant sow to the probiotic microbes contained in EM Bokashi® significantly affects the immunological quality of the colostrum and milk and caused an increase in the percentage of the subpopulations of B cells with CD19+, CD21+, and CD5+CD19+expression in the colostrum and milk, which demonstrates an increase in the protective potential of colostrum and indicates stimulation of humoral immune mechanisms that protect the sow and the piglets against infections.
Molecular markers associated with the outcome of tamoxifen treatment in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients: scoping review and in silico analysis
Authors: Dal Berto Maiquidieli , dos Santos Giovana Tavares , dos Santos Aniúsca Vieira , Silva Andrew Oliveira , Vargas José Eduardo , Alves Rafael José Vargas , Barbisan Fernanda , da Cruz Ivana Beatrice Mânica , Bica Claudia Giuliano 
Published: October 2021

AbstractTamoxifen (TMX) is used as adjuvant therapy for estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer cases due to its affinity and inhibitory effects. However, about 30% of cases show drug resistance, resulting in recurrence and metastasis, the leading causes of death. A literature review can help to elucidate the main cellular processes involved in TMX resistance. A scoping review was performed to find clinical studies investigating the association of expression of molecular markers profiles with long-term outcomes in ER+ patients treated with TMX. In silico analysis was performed to assess the interrelationship among the selected markers, evaluating the joint involvement with the biological processes. Forty-five studies were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After clustering and gene ontology analysis, 23 molecular markers were significantly associated, forming three clusters of strong correlation with cell cycle regulation, signal transduction of proliferative stimuli, and hormone response involved in morphogenesis and differentiation of mammary gland. Also, it was found that overexpression of markers in selected clusters is a significant indicator of poor overall survival. The proposed review offered a better understanding of independent data from the literature, revealing an integrative network of markers involved in cellular processes that could modulate the response of TMX. Analysis of these mechanisms and their molecular components could improve the effectiveness of TMX.
It is really time to retire laparoscopic gastric banding? Positive outcomes after long-term follow-up: the management is the key
Authors: Lucido Francesco Saverio , Scognamiglio Giuseppe , Nesta Giusiana , del Genio Gianmattia , Cristiano Stefano , Pizza Francesco , Tolone Salvatore , Brusciano Luigi , Parisi Simona , Pagnotta Stefano , Gambardella Claudio 
Published: October 2021

AbstractAfter the initial widespread diffusion, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has been progressively abandoned and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become the worldwide most adopted procedure. Nevertheless, recent reports raised concerns about the long-term weight regain after different bariatric techniques. Considering the large LAGB series recorded in our multicentric bariatric database, we analysed the anthropometric and surgical outcomes of obese patients underwent LAGB at a long-term follow-up, focusing on LAGB management. Between January 2008 to January 2018, demographics, anthropometric and post-operative data of obese patients undergone LAGB were retrospectively evaluated. To compare the postoperative outcomes, the cohort was divided in two groups according to the quantity of band filling (QBF): low band filling group (Group 1) with at most 3 ml of QBF, and patients in the high band filling group (Group 2) with at least 4 ml. 699 obese patients were considered in the analysis (351 in Group 1 and 348 in Group 2). Patients in Group 1 resulted significantly associated (p < 0.05) to higher % EWL and quality of life score (BAROS Score), 49.1 ± 11.3 vs 38.2 ± 14.2 and 5.9 ± 1.8 vs 3.8 ± 2.5, respectively. Moreover, patients with lower band filling (Group 1) complained less episodes of vomiting, epigastric pain and post-prandial reflux and significantly decreased slippage and migration rate (p < 0.001 for all parameters). LAGB is a safe and reversible procedure, whose efficacy is primarily related to correct postoperative handling. Low band filling and strict follow-up seem the success’ key of this technique, which deserves full consideration among bariatric procedures.
Hygroscopic larval provisions of bees absorb soil water vapor and release liquefied nutrients
Authors: Cane James H. , Love Byron G. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractLarvae of most bee species consume individual provision masses composed of pollen mixed with nectar. For simple metabolic reasons, mature larvae should weigh less than their consumed provision. However, past research reported a remarkable result: mature larvae of three ground-nesting halictid bees weighed 60% more than their original provision masses. This surprising paradox could result from the expected hygroscopic nature of nectar. Sugar solutions absorb water vapor at rates defined by their osmolarity and ambient humidity. Our experiments tested this hypothesis, showing that larval provisions of a ground-nesting bee, Nomia melanderi, are strongly hygroscopic. They consequently absorbed substantial water vapor from this bee’s preferred nesting soil. Mature larvae weighed 65% more than their original provision because hygroscopy had greatly augmented available dietary water. Liquid accumulating around isolated provisions was a sweet nutritious broth that included amino acids leached from the pollen. Hygroscopy was most intense during the egg and early larval stages. However, provision liquefaction (and possible drowning) was partly offset by rapid hydration of cached pollen, whose weight could double after absorbing free water. Larval provisions of two cavity-nesting Osmia species also readily absorbed water vapor from a soil atmosphere. However, at humidities measured within tunnels of their natural deadwood nesting substrates, they gained little weight via hygroscopy. Consequently, their mature larvae weighed less, not more, than the provision that they ate. These new insights explain some nesting traits shared by many ground-nesting bees, such as why females do not waterproof the earthen cell caps of their nest cells, or why many colletids cache liquid provisions. Progressive hygroscopy and resulting sugar dilution may also mediate succession of microbial mutualists and pathogens in provision masses of ground-nesting bees.
Concept development and testing of the UK’s first hydrogen-hybrid train (HydroFLEX)
Authors: Calvert Charles , Allan Jeff , Amor Peter , Hillmansen Stuart , Roberts Clive , Weston Paul 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIn October 2018, Porterbrook and the University of Birmingham announced the HydroFLEX project, to demonstrate a hydrogen-hybrid modified train at Rail Live 2019. The concept of modifying a Class 319 Electric Multiple Unit was developed, with equipment including a fuel cell stack, traction battery, 24 V control system and hydrogen storage elements to be mounted inside one of the carriages. This was followed by procurement of a fuel cell stack, traction batteries, and control equipment, which was then installed inside the train, being fixed to the seat rails. One substantial change from the concept was the provision of considerably more hydrogen storage than the minimum necessary, providing the train with more potential to be further modified to allow for higher speed mainline testing. After the Rail Live exhibition where HydroFLEX was demonstrated, numerous modifications were performed to increase the reliability and power of the HydroFLEX train, primarily concerned with modifying the base train logic, with the aim of a successful mainline test. Supporting this effort was a multitude of documentation concerning safety, operations, and approvals to gain approvals from the relevant approvals bodies. The project demonstrated the feasibility of using hydrogen fuel cells as an autonomous fuel for railway propulsion systems, which has the potential for full decarbonisation.
A review of hydrogen technologies and engineering solutions for railway vehicle design and operations
Authors: Sun Yan , Anwar M. , Hassan N. M. S. , Spiryagin Maksym , Cole Colin 
Published: October 2021

AbstractInterest in hydrogen-powered rail vehicles has gradually increased worldwide over recent decades due to the global pressure on reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, technology availability, and multiple options of power supply. In the past, research and development have been primarily focusing on light rail and regional trains, but the interest in hydrogen-powered freight and heavy haul trains is also growing. The review shows that some technical feasibility has been demonstrated from the research and experiments on proof-of-concept designs. Several rail vehicles powered by hydrogen either are currently operating or are the subject of experimental programmes. The paper identifies that fuel cell technology is well developed and has obvious application in providing electrical traction power, while hydrogen combustion in traditional IC engines and gas turbines is not yet well developed. The need for on-board energy storage is discussed along with the benefits of energy management and control systems.
Adult postgraduate students’ learning in online spaces—Images of identity and belonging
Authors: Dennis Carol Azumah , Clifton Gill 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThis research seeks to animate the voices of postgraduate students registered on a UK distance learning online Masters in Education or Childhood & Youth programme. Such a critical exploration is timely given the HE landscape is premised on its openness and accessibility. Our study reports on 33 interviews with postgraduate students using photo elicitation and unstructured interviews. We prioritise the perspectives of students whose experiences do not replicate the success stories which generally epitomize representations of HE study, favouring instead the voices of students who interrupted or in some cases terminated their studies. Our aim is to better understand the PG students’ personal, professional, and academic learning trajectories.In reading the data we produced four “manifesto” statements crafted from a series of dialogues between ourselves as researchers, our colleagues, the online experiences of adult postgraduate students and our reading of literatures surrounding withdrawal, persistence and retention. Interpretations gravitated towards four themes: identity, belonging, digital pedagogies and uncanny spaces and which point towards students’ perspectives about the interconnections between identity and belonging and how these concepts help develop understanding of “social presence”, what Bayne (2008) and Cartens (2016) assert as “uncanny” spaces. Our manifesto statements represent our reading of the data to stimulate further thinking around the HE digital pedagogy landscapes. The four statements have implications for how we understand, participate in and manage postgraduate adult students’ learning in digital spaces.
Formation of Humboldtine During the Dissolution of Hematite in Oxalic Acid – Density Functional Theory (DFT) Calculations and Experimental Verification
Authors: Vehmaanperä Paula , Gong Bo , Sit Patrick H.-L. , Salmimies Riina , Barbiellini Bernardo , Häkkinen Antti 
Published: October 2021

AbstractUnderstanding the reactions taking place in the hematite-oxalic acid system is important in order to clean iron oxides from filters and to remove iron from mineral concentrates. Previous studies reported the formation of an unwanted solid phase during this process. The objective of the current work, therefore, was to visualize and rationalize the iron dissolution steps taking place in the hematite–oxalic acid reaction by combining density functional theory (DFT) calculations and experimental data. The results of DFT calculations indicated that a precipitate was formed in this reaction; XRD analysis of the solid phase after the dissolution experiment revealed the formation of humboldtine as the precipitate. The attachment of oxalate on the hematite surface and the reduction of Fe(III) to Fe(II) were key steps for humboldtine formation. Both simulations and the experimental results showed that greater oxalic acid concentrations yielded more precipitate, suggesting a simple and novel route to synthesize humboldtine, a material which is relevant to the demand for clean energy.
Single-Cell Transcriptomes Reveal Characteristics of MicroRNAs in Gene Expression Noise Reduction
Authors: Hu Tao , Wei Lei , Li Shuailin , Cheng Tianrun , Zhang Xuegong , Wang Xiaowo 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Isogenic cells growing in identical environments show cell-to-cell variations because of the stochasticity in gene expression. High levels of variation or noise can disrupt robust gene expression and result in tremendous consequences for cell behaviors. In this work, we showed evidence from single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis that microRNAs (miRNAs) can reduce gene expression noise at the mRNA level in mouse cells. We identified that the miRNA expression level, number of targets, target pool abundance, and miRNA–target interaction strength are the key features contributing to noise repression. miRNAs tend to work together in cooperative subnetworks to repress target noise synergistically in a cell type-specific manner. By building a physical model of post-transcriptional regulation and observing in synthetic gene circuits, we demonstrated that accelerated degradation with elevated transcriptional activation of the miRNA target provides resistance to extrinsic fluctuations. Together, through the integrated analysis of single-cell RNA and miRNA expression profiles, we demonstrated that miRNAs are important post-transcriptional regulators for reducing gene expression noise and conferring robustness to biological processes.