bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Research Coordinators’ Perspectives on Recruitment of Minoritized People with Cystic Fibrosis into Clinical Trials
Authors: Milinic Tijana , Burdis Nora , Gill Eliana , Burks Patricia , Jarosz Mary Elizabeth , Hoffman Amy J. , Kapnadak Siddhartha G. , Ramos Kathleen J. , Goss Christopher H. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Clinical trials in cystic fibrosis (CF) disproportionately over-represent non-Hispanic, White individuals. Barriers and facilitators to enrolling racially and ethnically minoritized individuals with CF are not well understood. This study explored research coordinator (RC) perspectives on recruitment and enrollment of minoritized people with CF (PwCF) into clinical trials.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was administered to RCs in the CF Therapeutics Development Network (CF TDN), eliciting perceived barriers and facilitators to inclusion of minoritized PwCF in clinical research. Respondents were categorized based on their self-reported experience discussing and successfully enrolling minoritized PwCF into clinical trials.
Results
Among 48 respondents, the majority (n = 31, 64%) had little to no experience discussing CF clinical trials with minoritized PwCF. Respondents who had a moderate or great deal of experience identified that having a trusted clinical team member first introduce the study to PwCF as the most common strategy for recruitment. Experienced respondents also identified the importance of having team members who speak the same language or are the same culture as the minoritized PwCF. Respondents who had little to no experience successfully enrolling minoritized PwCF into clinical trials cited low numbers of minoritized patients at their study center as an important consideration. All respondents emphasized language barriers in enrollment including need for adequate translation services and printed materials in the PwCF’s primary language.
Conclusion
Our study identified modifiable barriers that may be addressed at the level of trial design and study center.
Genotypic variations in leaf pigments, metabolites content, and antioxidant activities of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) plants under salinity stress conditions
Authors: Flayyih Hydar , Nezami Ahmad , Nabati Jafar , Ahmadi Mohammad Javad , Kafi Mohammad 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) with high nutritional value plays a significant role in the growing world population nutrition. The yield and productivity of salinity-sensitive legumes such as chickpeas are adversely affected by salinity stress. However, because of the high genetic variability of chickpea plants, the performance of some genotypes was evaluated under salinity stress conditions (0.5, 6, and 9 dS.m-1) to screen the more salinity tolerant. The results revealed that MCC12, MCC22, MCC27, MCC65, MCC72, MCC77 and MCC108 genotypes at 6 dS.m-1 and MCC27, MCC65, MCC72, MCC77 and MCC52 genotypes at 9 dS.m-1 showed > 70% of plant survival. The stepwise regression results showed that leaf photosynthetic pigments and soluble carbohydrates content, peroxidase (POX) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities, and plant dry weight confirmed the survival variation. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that at 6 dS.m-1, proline and shoot dry weight, and at 9 dS.m-1, POX activity and shoot dry weight showed the highest values of the first and second components, respectively. The highest and lowest stress tolerance index (STI) at 6 dS.m-1 were observed in MCC28 and MCC65 genotypes, respectively. Furthermore, at 9 dS.m-1, the highest and the lowest STI were observed in MCC27 and MCC52 genotypes, respectively. High correlations were observed between plant survival with photosynthetic pigments and DPPH. Generally, higher leaf relative water content (RWC), leaf chlorophyll and metabolites content, and antioxidant activities helped chickpea genotypes maintain their survival and continued growth under salt-stress conditions.
LISBET: a machine learning model for the automatic segmentation of social behavior motifs
Authors: Bellone Camilla , Chindemi Giuseppe , Girard Benoit 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Social behavior is crucial for survival in many animal species, and a heavily investigated research subject. Current analysis methods generally rely on measuring animal interaction time or annotating predefined behaviors. However, these approaches are time consuming, human biased, and can fail to capture subtle behaviors.
Here we introduce LISBET (LISBET Is a Social BEhavior Transformer), a machine learning model for detecting and segmenting social interactions. Using self-supervised learning on body tracking data, our model eliminates the need for extensive human annotation.
We tested LISBET in three scenarios across multiple datasets in mice: supervised behavior classification, unsupervised motifs segmentation, and unsupervised animal phenotyping. Additionally, in vivo electrophysiology revealed distinct neural signatures in the Ventral Tegmental Area corresponding to motifs identified by our model. In summary, LISBET automates data annotation and reduces human bias in social behavior research, offering a promising approach to enhance our understanding of behavior and its neural correlates.
WITHDRAWN: From myometrium to fibrosis: the underlying mechanism of endometrial injury in intrauterine adhesions
Authors: Xu Xiaotong , Guo Kaixuan , Zhao Peng , Zhang Xuemei , Zhao Pan , Sun Xianghang , Zhang Mingle , Tian Yanpeng , Zheng Jiahua , Huang Xianghua 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Lyophilized preparation of root endophyte fungus Piriformospora indica with carbon-based nanomaterial (carbon dots) successfully colonizes the plant host, Cicer arietinum
Authors: Yadav Bindu , Mourya Pallavi , SIngh Rajeshwar Pratap , Smriti  , Solanki Pratima , Johri Atul Kumar , Dua Meenakshi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Root endophyte fungus Piriformospora indica can be axenically cultivable, is easily obtained in pure cultures in the laboratory, and therefore, can be developed as a biofertilizer for bioaugmentation. In this study, an effort towards sustainable organic agriculture, we have made two completely eco-friendly, biogenic and biocompatible lyophilized formulations of P. indica, one, without carbon dots and second, with carbon dots. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observations, viability assays and colonization efficiency of both the formulations revealed that lyophilization does not in any way alter either the morphology, growth or colonization ability of the endophyte. The formulations were also tested for impact on growth of Cicer arietinum plants in experimental set up. The plants were analysed for changes in dry weight, shoot length, root length and branch numbers. While the dry weight increased by a maximum of 1.9-fold; average shoot length increased by 1.4-fold; average root length by 1.7-fold; and number of branches by 1.4-fold, when compared to plants grown without any P. indica. These increases were found to be statistically significant. We identify this work as a significant step towards optimizations and production of this formulation on a larger scale. We also perceive this attempt as commitment towards United Nations SDGs 2,3 and 13.
The Association between Self-Esteem, Physical Activity, and Menopausal Symptoms in Postmenopausal Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ramezanzadeh Faezeh , Hamidia Angela , Pourhadi Samaneh , Shirafkan Hoda 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Menopause is a natural transition often accompanied by various physical and psychological symptoms. This study examines the associations between self-esteem, physical activity levels, and menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women.
Methods
A cross-sectional design recruited 124 women aged 45–60 years who were postmenopausal. Data on sociodemographics, self-esteem, physical activity, and menopause-specific quality of life were collected using special questionnaires. Correlations and multivariable linear regression analyses explored relationships.
Results
Self-esteem scores showed significant negative correlations with psychosocial (p = 0.000), physical (p = 0.000), and to a lesser extent, vasomotor symptoms (p = 0.002). While physical activity levels did not exhibit a significant association with overall menopause-specific quality of life scores, a trend towards an association with psychosocial symptoms (p = 0.130) was observed, warranting further investigation. Multivariable regression analysis identified self-esteem as a significant predictor for various symptoms, with higher self-esteem linked to reduced symptom severity.
Conclusions
This study suggests a positive association between self-esteem and reduced menopausal symptoms. While a definitive link between physical activity and symptom burden wasn't established, a potential connection with psychosocial symptoms warrants further exploration. Future research with larger, more diverse populations is recommended. Interventions focusing on self-esteem enhancement may be beneficial for improving quality of life in postmenopausal women.
Perceptions of Dementia and Their Implications on Disease Management in Egypt: A Perspective
Authors: Heikal Shimaa A. , Moghith Aalaa A. , Salama Mohamed 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The social stigma and negative perceptions about Dementia are major problems that hinder disease management. Yet, the scarcity of resources that investigate the situation in Egypt limits our understanding of the role of stigma and its implications on the disease in the country. In this study, we explored the perceptions of Dementia in Egypt by investigating the perspectives of experts and healthcare providers to understand the implications on disease management. We conducted 24 in-depth interviews with experts in different fields who are aware of the Egyptian context. The findings reveal that social stigma significantly hinders early diagnosis and effective management of Dementia. Patients often avoid seeking medical help due to the fear of social stigma, leading to late-stage diagnosis and diminished treatment efficacy. The study emphasizes the need for community awareness and policy interventions to provide protective measures for securing patients and decreasing disease misconceptions for improved Dementia care in Egypt.
Seismic back slope effects of slopes: a case from Yinxing village of China triggered by the May 12th, 2008, Wenchuan earthquake
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Yunsheng , Tan Zhihua , Fan Yanyun , Jiang Fasen , Mi Jian , Xu Hongbiao 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

One of the most severe geological hazards is caused by earthquakes. Revealing the rules about the geo-hazards triggered by earthquake plays an important role in managing them. Here, in-situ research is thoroughly carried out in the study area and neighboring area. Combining in-situ research with numerical simulating by FLAC3D, the effect is studied further. Our research suggests that: 1) The in-situ investigation shows that, the lithology and joint development of the rock mass on the front and back slopes are almost identical, and the back slope effect is obvious. 2) The back slope has a larger shear failure zone than the front slope. The model's monitoring results for acceleration, velocity, displacement and stress also reveal a sizable back slope amplification effect. 3) Acceleration and velocity both follow the same distribution rule for their amplification coefficients, which is that it tends to rise from the lowest part and peak at the middle-lower part. Stress and displacement’s strongest amplification effect is visible in their y and z direction components.
Blade configuration and depth ratio impact on undershot waterwheel in compact irrigation for sustainable off-grid electrification
Authors: Sari Dewi Puspita , Adanta Dendy , Syofii Imam , Fudholi Ahmad , Zawawi Fazila Mohd , Mizan Muhammad 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Undershot waterwheel turbines (USWWs) are promising renewable energy sources for off-grid electrification in developing countries, especially for low-head applications. This study aimed to compare the performance of wide-blade and large-diameter USWW designs for compact irrigation infrastructure. Two USWW configurations were tested: one with a large diameter and one with a wide blade. Numerical simulations using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) were performed and validated with experimental data. The results showed that the wide-blade design achieved significantly higher torque and power output than the large-diameter design, demonstrating the importance of blade configuration for efficient energy transfer. The study also developed an empirical equation for the relationship between the blade depth ratio and efficiency, highlighting the impact of this parameter on USWW performance. Finally, the investigation of tip speed ratio and hydrostatic force provided valuable insights into the hydraulic behavior of USWWs and their optimal operation. This study offers valuable insights for designing efficient and environmentally friendly USWWs for remote areas, paving the way for broader adoption of this renewable energy technology.
The relationship between high intensity activities and kidney stone: A cross-sectional survey of NHANES
Authors: Nong Fengwei , Liang Zhengfang , Chen Runmin , Huang Yongping , Wang Jie 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Kidney stone disease (KSD) occurs in a wide range of ages and is influenced by multiple factors. Early detection and elimination of risk factors for KSD can effectively reduce the incidence of KSD.
Methods
In this research, we included KSD participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database from 2007 to 2015. Baseline characteristics of the participants were investigated using Student's t-tests and chi-square tests. Subsequently, the relationship between high intensity activities (HIA) and KSD was investigated through multifactor glm regression modeling. In addition, the linear relationship between them was explored by smoothing curves. Finally, the predictive performance of HIA on KSD was explored based on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.
Results
At first, 6,642 subjects were finally recruited for this study. The baseline statistical table showed that the exposure factor (time spent in HIA) was chosen to have a significant differentiation for KSD. In addition, HIA was significantly associated with KSD in all three models, with OR greater than 1 and P < 0.05. The smoothed curves showed that short periods of HIA did not increase the risk of KSD, but over a certain period of time greatly increased the risk of KSD. Stratified analysis results showed that exposure factors and race, educational status, and gout were significantly associated with KSD in Model 3. Eventually, ROC curve indicated the prediction for HIA to KSD was relatively accurate.
Conclusion
This study revealed a link between HIA and KSD, with HIA over a certain period of time greatly increasing the risk of KSD.
Exponentially-enhanced quantum sensing with many-body phase transitions
Authors: Sarkar Saubhik , Bayat Abolfazl , Bose Sougato , Ghosh Roopayan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Quantum sensors based on critical many-body systems are known to exhibit enhanced sensing capability. Such enhancements typically scale algebraically with the probe size. Going beyond algebraic advantage and reaching exponential scaling has remained elusive when all the resources, such as the preparation time, are taken into account. In this work, we show that many-body systems featuring first order quantum phase transitions can indeed achieve exponential scaling of sensitivity, thanks to their exponential energy gap closing. Remarkably, even after considering the preparation time using local adiabatic driving, the exponential scaling is sustained. Our results are demonstrated through comprehensive analysis of three paradigmatic models exhibiting first order phase transitions, namely Grover, $p$-spin, and biclique models. We show that this scaling survives moderate decoherence during state preparation and also can be optimally measured in experimentally available basis.
Machine learning wildfire susceptibility mapping for Germany
Authors: Thies Boris 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Wildfires present a significant threat to ecosystems and human life, particularly as
global climate change amplifies the likelihood of extreme fire events. This study
develops a machine learning-based wildfire susceptibility model for Germany, using
data between 2003 and 2023. The primary goal is to identify the dominant wildfire
predictors and create monthly susceptibility maps. A Random Forest (RF) algorithm
was trained on remote sensing data and a comprehensive set of predictors, including
meteorological, terrain, and land cover variables. The results indicate that surface air
pressure, elevation, vegetation health, and proximity to urban areas are the most
important factors in predicting fire susceptibility. The model achieved 89% accuracy,
demonstrating the effectiveness of data-driven approaches in wildfire risk modeling.
The monthly susceptibility map for July 2022 highlights northeastern Germany as
particularly vulnerable to fire outbreaks. The results offer valuable insights for targeted
wildfire prevention and resource allocation, emphasizing the importance of both
temporal and spatial dimensions in managing wildfire risks.
Increasing matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) activity by treatment of ovine cervical explants with a long-acting analogue of oxytocin (Carbetocin) at the expected time of artificial insemination.
Authors: Rodríguez-Piñón Marcelo , García-Barcelo Gonzalo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The aim was to study the effect of long-acting analogue of oxytocin (Carbetocin, Cb) on cervical collagenolysis of MAP-eCG synchronized ewes. At the expected time of artificial insemination, five ewes were slaughtered (n = 5) and their cervical explants (100–200 mg) were incubated during 12 h with MEM supplemented with 0, 8, 16, 32 and 64 ng/mL of Cb. Activities of activated (A) and latent (L) forms of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and − 9 (MMP-2 and MMP-9, respectively) in the supernatant were determined by a SDS-PAGE zymography and PGE2 concentration immunoassay. Data were analyzed by Welch's ANOVA test. The MMP-9 activity was detected weakly and sporadically. The activity of A MMP-2 was higher in 32 ng/mL Cb treated samples than in untreated samples (P < 0.03). The activity of L MMP-2 tended to be higher in 32 ng/mL than in 8 ng/mL Cb treated samples (P = 0.0784). The A/L ratio of MMP-2 tended to be higher in 64 ng/mL Cb treated samples than in untreated samples (P = 0.0955). PGE2 concentration was not affected by Cb dose. The data show that Cb treatment of cervical explants induces an increase in MMP-2 activity by PGE2-independent mechanisms, suggesting Cb as a potential inducer of cervical dilation in sheep.
Endeavoring the First Lanthanide–Carbon Triple-Bond in Fullerene Cage
Authors: Li Jun , Chen Ning , Jiang Hongjie , Zhao Jing , Meng Qingyu , Zhao Xiao-Kun , Guo Min , Hu Han-Shi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Metal–ligand multiple bonds are intriguing in coordination and organometallic chemistry. However, lanthanide–carbon multiple bonds are extremely difficult to form. Despite decades of effort, isolable complexes containing lanthanide–carbon double bonds with terminal methyl carbene (= CH2) and lanthanide–carbon triple bonds have never been found. Here, we report the successful synthesis of an unprecedented lanthanide–carbon triple-bonded compound with cerium-carbide [Ce≡C − Sc2] cluster encapsulated inside a C80 fullerene cage. The molecular structure of CeCSc2@C80 and the nature of the Ce≡C triple bond are characterized through X-ray crystallography, spectroscopic analyses, and quantum chemical study, revealing a very short Ce≡C distance of 1.978(8) Å. Chemical bonding analysis suggests that the formation of the Ce≡C bond primarily arises from the stronger bonding affinity between carbon and cerium compared to scandium inside the encapsulated cluster. The fullerene cage plays a crucial role in stabilizing and protecting this trimetallic carbide cluster with a Ce≡C triple bond.
Inhibition of Growth and Biofilm Formation in Staphylococcus aureus by LLY-507
Authors: Tang Yuanyuan , Xu Zhichao , Lai Yingying , Zhang Jialang , Zheng Jinxin , Wen Zewen , Yu Zhijian , Chen Zhong , Han Shiqing , Li Peiyu , Hou Tieying 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) as a prevalent antibiotic-resistant pathogen underscores the urgent need for novel antibacterial agents. This study investigates the potential of LLY-507 against gram-positive bacteria, particularly S. aureus, focusing on its antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties. Here, our data exhibited favorable antibacterial activity of LLY-507 with MIC50 and MIC90 values of 25 µM against S. aureus. Additionally, LLY-507 at sub-MIC concentrations effectively reduced the planktonic growth and biofilm formation of S. aureus. Proteomic analysis of S. aureus treated with LLY-507 revealed the classification of the functional proteins with significant expression level alterations in bacterial metabolism, particularly amino acid biosynthesis. Furthermore, we demonstrated the disruption of S. aureus cell integrity by LLY-507 through membrane permeability assays and direct binding experiments between LLY-507 and cardiolipin. Lastly, the effectiveness of LLY-507 was proven in vivo using the G. mellonella infection model. Overall, these findings highlight the promising antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of LLY-507 against S. aureus and provide insights into its mechanism of action, implicating its potential as a lead compound for developing novel antibacterial agents targeting Gram-positive bacteria.
Assessing Prevalence and Risk Factors for REM Sleep Behavior Disorder Among Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Reddy Vijaya , Chen Zihan , Dewain Sohail , Joo Michelle , Bellomo Maya , Renkl Erika , Patel Sapna , Rivera Emily , Weisbein Laura , Ali Ahmed , Kappelman Michael D. , Koo Brian B. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are associated with Parkinson’s Disease. We hypothesized that RBD prevalence is greater in IBD than controls. 158 controls and 462 IBD patients completed IBD-related history questionnaires and the RBD Single-Question Screen (RBD1Q) and RBD-Screening Questionnaire assessing RBD. RBD prevalence was compared using chi-squared testing. Logistic regression explored IBD-related factors associated with RBD (RBD1Q), adjusting for age, sex, race. RBD prevalence was higher in IBD (14.1% vs. 5.1%; p = 0.002). Differential RBD prevalence was driven by changes in women; 13.3% IBD and 1.0% controls had RBD. For men, 16.0% IBD and 11.9% controls had RBD. IBD was associated with > 3-fold RBD likelihood (OR = 3.18, 95% CI [1.48,6.82], p = 0.003). Men with RBD and IBD were more likely than IBD males without RBD to have IBD-related hospitalizations (95.2% vs. 63.0%; p = 0.004). RBD is more prevalent in IBD than controls and is associated with severe IBD.