bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Participatory variety selection and promotion of improved faba bean (Vicia faba L.) varieties in the highland areas of North Shewa, Ethiopia
Authors: Aniley Simegnew , Kassa Yehuala , Kefelegn Nigussie , Zekargie Worku 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Faba bean is the most important pulse crop in Ethiopia; however, its productivity has low and susceptible to biotic and abiotic stresses. The objective of this study was to select and promote varieties that most preferred by farmers and showed best agronomic performances. Participatory variety selection was conducted with seven improved and local faba bean genotypes using randomized complete block design with three replications. The agronomic data were collected from four central rows. The trial was conducted in Hagre Mariam woreda during 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. Highly Significant variation was observed among the tested varieties in days to flowering (50 to 56), 100-seed weight (39.16 to 91.62 grams), grain yield (1.88 to 3.03 t ha-1) and faba bean gall disease percent severity index (11.10 to 30.67%). Significant difference was also detected in days to maturity (135 to 141) and plant height (83.27 to 106.57cm). The highest grain yield was recorded by Hachalu (3.03 t ha-1) followed by Walki (2.92 t ha-1) and Numan (2.86 t ha-1). Among the tested varieties Walki got farmers’ high preference score indicating it fulfilled farmers’ varietal selection criteria including, long plant height, high grain and straw yield, high no. of pods/plant and no of seeds/pod, big seed size, early maturity and better adaptability in the area. Accordingly, Walki was pre scaled up and widely disseminated. During the scaling up Walki gave an average grain yield of 2.64 t ha-1 and showed about 107.9% grain yield advantage over the local cultivar.
Quantum state control of a ground state H2 dissociation reaction.
Authors: Alexandrowicz Gil , Chadwick Helen , Zhang Guodong , Baker Christopher , Smith Paul 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

When hydrogen molecules collide with a surface, they can either scatter away from the surface or undergo a dissociation reaction leaving two hydrogen atoms adsorbed on the surface. The relative probabilities of these two potential outcomes could depend on the rotational orientation of the impinging molecules, however, due to the lack of steric control techniques for ground state hydrogen, direct measurements of this dependency were previously inaccessible to experiments. Here, we demonstrate that magnetic field manipulation can be used to control the rotational orientation of the impinging H2 and change the balance between reactive and scattering collision events. Analysing the controlled collision experiments reveals that molecules approaching the surface in a helicopter orientation have a higher probability to react and dissociate, whereas those which approach in a cartwheel orientation are more likely to scatter.
Sleep timing and structure as a function of daily experiences
Authors: Ujma Péter , Bodizs Robert 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Sleep characteristics may be affected by daytime experiences, a fact that can be leveraged by non-pharmacological interventions to improve sleep. The effect of daily experiences on sleep has been only sporadically investigated in the previous literature, mainly with small interventional studies. In this study, we leverage BSETS, a large multiday observational study (N = 1901 nights in total) with extensive daily diaries and mobile EEG recordings conducted for at least 7 days per participant to investigate how naturally occurring daily experiences affect sleep during the subsequent night. The strongest influence was on the timing of sleep onset: even after controlling for day of the week, sleep onset occurred later after more intense days and pleasurable activities. After statistically accounting for this extended wakefulness, we found limited evidence that daily experiences influence sleep characteristics. Only four effects survived correction for multiple comparisons: sleep and N3 duration were longer after days with time at the workplace, REM latency was increased after social activity, and sleep onset latency was reduced after alcohol consumption. Our work shows that, aside from homeostatic effects resulting from extended wakefulness, sleep is relatively resilient to and only affected by a few distinct daytime experiences. Non-pharmacological interventions seeking to change sleep may need to utilize behavioral modifications outside the normally observed range.
TTK promotes multiple myeloma progression by regulating RGN expression
Authors: Zhu Xiao Feng , Feng Zuxi , Peng Xiaohuan , Di Tianning , Li YanHong , Bai Jun , Ma Tao , Li Lijuan , Zhang Liansheng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant proliferative disorder of plasma cells and remains an incurable disease. Threonine and tyrosine kinase (TTK) is a dual-specific protein kinase that targets serine/threonine and tyrosine residues for phosphorylation. Its elevated expression has been linked to unfavorable outcomes in several types of cancer. Although the role of TTK in MM are still incompletely understood. In this research, we assessed TTK mRNA and protein expression levels in 51 MM patients and 30 healthy donors using qRT-PCR and western blotting. The impact of TTK expression on MM cell apoptosis, proliferation, and the cell cycle were assessed through CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, and western blotting. Our findings revealed a significant overexpression of TTK in multiple myeloma patients and cell lines. TTK knockdown promoted apoptosis and G0/G1 phase arrest while inhibiting proliferation in MM cells, whereas TTK overexpression reduced apoptosis and G0/G1 phase arrest, enhancing proliferation in MM cells. Next, we identified regucalcin (RGN) as a downstream target of TTK through proteomic analysis. Cell function experiments showed that RGN knockdown significantly promoted MM cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis and reduced cell cycle arrest, and reversed the increased apoptosis, weakened proliferation, and enhanced cell cycle arrest caused by TTK knockdown. Finally, a xenograft mouse model showed that TTK significantly promotes MM development. In summary, we demonstrated that the TTK-RGN axis regulates cell apoptosis, G0/G1 phase arrest, and proliferation in MM, highlighting TTK as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in this cancer.
Spatio-temporal pattern of interprovincial migration of rural population in China and its influencing factors
Authors: Zhong Wenyue , Guo Yuanzhi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In the era of great migration, rural population has been the majors of China's population migration. Using data from the last three population censuses, this study explores the evolution and network characteristics of interprovincial rural migration in China from 2000 to 2020 and employs a panel model to diagnose its influencing factors. The results show that interprovincial migration of China's rural population has grown rapidly, but the growth rate has slowed down. The scale of provincial rural emigration has shown a differentiated trend with the Heihe-Tengchong Line as the boundary and presents a "center-periphery" pattern, and the main destinations of migration are the eastern coastal provinces. From 2000 to 2020, China's interprovincial rural migration network had a strong centralization, but the agglomeration core of the network tended to be diversified. Spatially, the destination choice of interprovincial rural migration has a clear tendency towards proximity, and the interprovincial migration network has gradually evolved from an "umbrella-shaped" pattern to a "funnel-shaped" pattern. The main factors influencing the evolution of interprovincial rural migration network in China include per capita GDP, natural disasters, topographic relief, spatial distance, rural hukou population and internet penetration rate. To guide the orderly migration of rural populations to support the implementation of major national strategies, it is necessary to promote regional coordinated development, deepen rural hukou system reform and smooth the factor flow mechanisms.
Fuzzy Vulnerability Index
Authors: Guzman Roberto Martinez 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This paper introduces the Fuzzy Vulnerability Index (FVI), an innovative toolfor socioeconomic assessment that employs advanced computational methods,including artificial intelligence (AI) and fuzzy logic algorithms. The FVI providesa multidimensional analysis of household challenges across education, housing,and health dimensions. By leveraging Type-1 and Type-2 fuzzy logic systems,the FVI captures the complex, often overlapping nature of socioeconomic issues,offering a sophisticated framework to support public policymakers. The studydemonstrates the FVI’s application using real-world data, revealing intricate patternsthat traditional methods might overlook. Results indicate that the FVIprovides a more comprehensive measure of societal challenges, potentially enhancingthe efficacy of targeted interventions and resource allocation. The FVI’sadaptability to different datasets, coupled with its AI-enhanced analysis capabilities,enables more precise identification of at-risk populations. This makes ita valuable tool for combating poverty and social exclusion through informed,equitable decision-making and effective resource distribution.
Spatial Distribution of Microplastics in Persian Gulf Marine Environments
Authors: Jaafarzadeh Neamatollah , Ravanbakhsh Maryam , Talepour Nastaran , Jahedi Faezeh , Reyshahri Alireza 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as a significant environmental threat within marine ecosystems. This study examines the spatial distribution of microplastics in seawater, sediments, and fish from the Persian Gulf. A total of 24 seawater samples, 24 sediment samples, and 40 specimens of Pennahia anea were collected from eight locations. Samples were digested, and MPs were filtered, counted, and analyzed using a stereo microscope, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX). The results revealed the presence of microplastics across all sample types. The total abundance of MPs in seawater ranged from 3 to 15 items/l, in sediments from 10 to 35 items/kg, and in fish from 4 to 18 items/10g. The study identified a robust positive correlation between microplastic contamination in seawater and fish (r = 0.932, p = 0.001). Similarly, a strong positive correlation was observed between sediment and fish contamination (r = 0.730, p = 0.040). In seawater, sediment, and fish samples, microplastics were predominantly in the form of fibers, constituting 98.31%, 100%, and 87.5% of the total microplastic content, respectively. These fibers primarily measured ≤ 250 μm in length, with black and grey being the most prevalent colors. The Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) method, revealed that the northern site, Khor Semaili (K1), was a significant MP hotspot. At the same time, areas such as Khor Zangi (K6) and Khor Ghazaleh (K8) exhibited minimal contamination across all matrices. This research underscores the critical role of spatial analyses in understanding microplastic distribution in marine ecosystems.
Comparing SARS-CoV-2 infections in the United States Military Health System and national data: opportunities for future pandemic surveillance
Authors: Craig-Kuhn Megan Clare , Stewart Laveta , Sercy Erica , Stern Caryn , Graham Brock , Michel Amber , Parmelee Edward , Shackelford Stacy , Pollett Simon , Burgess Timothy , Tribble David R. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:The Military Health System offers geographically distributed SARS-CoV-2 incidence estimates to support critical national pandemic surveillance, but this has not been previously assessed. The objective was to identify confirmed, probable, and possible SARS-CoV-2 infections with laboratory and clinical evidence and compare cumulative incidence to the general United States population.
Methods: An observational, retrospective epidemiologic study using medical records from the United States Military Health System (inclusive of active duty) collected from outpatient and inpatient facilities worldwide, both United States Military and non-military treatment facilities. Direct standardization to the general US population was used to calculate sex-adjusted cumulative incidence, stratified by age, for ten Health and Human Services regions for active duty and non-active duty beneficiary populations.
Results: Among Military Health System beneficiaries, 2,219,987 cases were identified, with 27.4% laboratory-confirmed cases alongside 35.0% probable and 37.6% possible cases identified using clinical ICD-10-CM evidence. Peaks in cases occurred November 2020-January 2021, August 2021-September 2021, and January 2022. Age-stratified and gender-adjusted cumulative incidence across ten geographical regions reflected these temporal patterns among both active duty (90% of age and region-specific correlation coefficients >0.7) and non-active duty beneficiaries (80% of age and region-specific correlation coefficients >0.7). Cumulative incidence was higher among active duty beneficiaries compared to the United States general population, particularly those ages 18-49 years, with adjusted cumulative incidence ratios consistently greater than 1. The cumulative incidence ratios for non-active duty beneficiaries were more consistent and closer to 1. The sensitivity analysis of laboratory-confirmed cases among active duty personnel demonstrated consistently lower adjusted cumulative incidence than United States general population.
Conclusion: Temporal patterns in cases among Military Health System beneficiaries reflect cases measured nationally by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Applying a comprehensive algorithm of clinical and laboratory data from a large electronic health system, such as the Military Health System, has the potential to yield sensitive case capture during an emergent epidemic providing incidence estimates and regional impact in support of U.S. national surveillance.
Abundant geographical divergence of Clostridioides difficile infection in China: A prospective multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Bai Lulu , Xu Telong , Zhang Wenzhu , Jiang Yajun , Gu Wenpeng , Zhao Wei , Luan Yang , Xiong Yanfeng , Zou Nianli , Zhang Yalin , Luo Ming , Lu Jinxing , Zhang Bike , Wu Yuan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Clostridioides difficile is the predominant pathogen in hospital-acquired infections and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. While several outbreaks have been reported in Europe and North America, however the extensive investigation on the prevalence of C. difficile infection (CDI) in China is limited. In this study, 1643 patients with diarrhea were recruited from seven geographically representative regions of China between July 2021 and July 2022. The positivity rate of toxigenic C. difficile using real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR test of feces was 10.4% (171/1643), and 125 (7.6%, 125/1643) strains were successfully isolated. The isolates from different geographical areas had divergent characteristics after multilocus sequence typing, toxin gene profiling, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. No isolates from clade 2 were found, and clade 1 was still the main clade for these clinical isolates. Interestingly, clade 4, especially ST37, previously known as the characteristic type of China, showed a strong geographical divergence. Clade 3, which although is rare in China, was still detected in Hainan and Sichuan provinces. Most C. difficile isolates (88.8%, 111/125) were toxigenic. Clindamycin, erythromycin, and moxifloxacin were the top three antibiotics to which resistance was observed, with resistance rates of 81.6%, 68.8%, and 23.2%, respectively. Furthermore, 34 (27.2%, 34/125) multidrug-resistant(MDR) strains were identified. All the strains were sensitive to metronidazole, vancomycin, and meropenem. The genotype of C. difficile varies greatly among the different geographical regions in China, and new types are constantly emerging. Therefore, comprehensive, longitudinal, and standardized surveillance of C. difficile infections is needed in China, covering typical geographical areas.
Comparative Analysis of Anterior Corpectomy versus Laminoplasty Efficacy in Radiological Outcomes for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Treatment
Authors: SURME Mehmet Besir , AKGÜN Bekir , CEKIC Efecan , ISCI Mehmet , YILDIRIM Hanefi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective This study aims to assess the radiological outcomes of anterior corpectomy compared to laminoplasty in treating Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy (CSM), focusing on postoperative improvements in key imaging metrics.Materials and Methods A retrospective cohort analysis evaluated 45 patients diagnosed with CSM who underwent anterior corpectomy (21 patients) or laminoplasty (24 patients). Radiological outcomes were measured by comparing preoperative and 6-month postoperative CT and MRI scans, focusing on the Harrison posterior tangent curve, sagittal vertical axis (SVA), cranial tilt, cervical tilt, Jackson stress curve and cobb angle.Results The study found statistically significant improvements in Harrison posterior tangent curve, SVA and cranial tilt measurements for both surgical methods. No significant differences were observed between the two surgical techniques when comparing the ratio of post-operative to pre-operative values.Conclusion Both anterior corpectomy and laminoplasty were effective in altering radiological parameters in the treatment of CSM, with no significant difference in efficacy between the two techniques. These findings underscore the importance of a tailored approach to surgical intervention in CSM, with decisions based on individual patient anatomy and clinical presentation. Further studies with larger patient populations are needed to confirm these results and establish standardized radiological benchmarks for surgical outcomes in CSM treatment.
Combining clinical and radiological features improves prediction of bowel ischemia in patients with CT findings of pneumatosis intestinalis
Authors: Rigiroli Francesca , Nakhaei Masoud , Karam Ramy , Tabah Nicolas , Brook Alexander , Siewert Bettina , Brook Olga 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Pneumatosis intestinalis on CT presents a diagnostic dilemma, because it could reflect bowel ischemia or benign finding.
Purpose: To determine radiological and clinical features that can predict bowel ischemia in patients with pneumatosis intestinalis on CT.
Materials and Methods: Patients with “pneumatosis” in abdominal CT reports performed between 1/1/2002 and 12/31/2018 were retrospectively included. Pneumatosis intestinalis was confirmed by review of images. Radiological features of pneumatosis, laboratory data, clinical signs and symptoms were collected. Pathologic pneumatosis intestinalis (PPI) was defined as presence of ischemic (viable or dead) bowel on surgery or death during admission or within 30 days of discharge due to ischemia. Univariate statistical analysis was used to identify features associated with PPI, followed by multivariate logistic regression models.
Results: A total of 313 consecutive patients with pneumatosis intestinalis (162 (52%) men, median age 67 years, IQR 55 – 78 years) were included. Pathologic pneumatosis intestinalis was present in 114/313 (36%) patients. Presence of arterial or venous thrombosis, porto-mesenteric gas, fat stranding, and location in the small bowel were significantly associated with PPI. A combined clinical and radiological model, which included age, WBC, creatinine, abdominal distention, rebound or guarding, shock, presence of porto-mesenteric gas and fat stranding showed an AUC of 0.85 for prediction of PPI, higher than models using clinical (AUC=0.80, p=0.005) or radiological factors (AUC=0.80, p<0.0001) alone.
Conclusion: Improved prediction of pathological pneumatosis intestinalis can be achieved by a model incorporating both clinical and radiological features (AUC=0.85)rather than by either clinical (AUC=0.80) or radiological (AUC=0.80) features alone.
Discovery of Novel Serum Peptide Biomarkers for Cholangiocarcinoma Recurrence Through MALDI-TOF MS and LC-MS/MS Peptidome Analysis
Authors: Thanasukarn Vasin , Prajumwongs Piya , Muangritdech Nattha , Loilome Watcharin , Namwat Nisana , Klanrit Poramate , Wangwiwatsin Arporn , Charoenlappanit Sawanya , Jaresitthikunchai Janthima , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Titapun Attapol 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive cancer originating from bile duct epithelial cells, with a high rate of recurrence following surgical resection. Recurrence is categorized as early linked to aggressive tumor biology than late recurrence. This study aimed to identify novel peptide mass fingerprints (PMFs) and potential biomarker panels in the serum of CCA patients with early and late recurrence using mass spectrometry. Serum samples of 81 CCA patients were analyzed using MALDI-TOF MS and LC-MS/MS, with statistical analysis correlating peptide profiles with clinical outcomes like disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). A 365-day DFS cutoff effectively distinguished early from late recurrence, with early recurrence linked to poorer survival outcomes. The PMFs from MALDI-TOF MS differentiated recurrence types based on specific mass signatures. LC-MS/MS analysis identified 95 peptides associated with cancer progression in early recurrence and 60 in late recurrence. Distinct protein associations were found: ATR, POLA1, BLM, SP100, and PPP1R15A for early recurrence, and SERPINA1, TGFB2, SERPING1, and CAD for late recurrence, with strong interactions with chemotherapeutic drugs. This study successfully demonstrated the use of PMFs for rapid discrimination between early and late recurrence in CCA and identified potential serum peptide biomarkers to improve accuracy in recurrence classification.