bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterizing the oral microbiota of adolescents: results from the Generation R Study
Authors: Veenman Francien , Arredondo Alexandre , Medina-Gomez Carolina , Wolvius Eppo , Rivadeneira Fernando , Àlvarez Gerard , Blanc Vanessa , Kragt Lea 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective of this study was to investigate the microbial signature of the oral cavity in caries-free adolescents without orthodontic treatment from the general population. We also aimed to identify lifestyle factors shaping oral microbiota composition and assess the impact of technical covariates related to sample collection and analysis.
Methods
For the cross-sectional analysis, 750 Dutch adolescents without caries or orthodontic treatment (16.1%) were selected from all participants from the Generation R Study with oral microbiota profiling (n = 4,646). Oral microbiota data was obtained from supragingival biofilm swabs using 16S rRNA sequencing (V3-V4 region), and analyzed at four levels; core microbiota, alpha diversity, beta diversity and differential abundance.
Results
Participants (13.6 ± 0.29 years, 56% male) shared a large core microbiota consisting of 23 different genera, with the five most abundant and prevalent—Streptococcus, Rothia, Haemophilus, Gemella, and Neisseria—being well-known early colonizers of the dental biofilm. Among participant characteristics, tooth brushing frequency emerged as the strongest determinant of microbiota composition. Compared to participants who brushed twice or more a day, those who brushed once or less, exhibited higher bacterial richness (Chao1; β:15.04, 95% CI:1.78;28.31) and higher Porphyromonas abundance (LFC:0.63, SD:0.16, q-value:0.002). The sampling time, identified as the most impactful technical covariate, showed a negative association with bacterial richness (early-morning vs late-afternoon: Chao1; β:-57.04, 95% CI:-77.44;-36.64).
Conclusion
This study revealed a high similarity in oral microbiota of adolescents from the general population at the genus level, while highlighting the influence of tooth brushing frequency, sex, and sugar consumption on bacterial composition.
Clinical relevance
The findings provide a valuable reference for future studies exploring the link between adolescents' oral microbiota and both oral and systemic health.
Mapping the primary factors driving spatiotemporal variations of surface soil moisture from multi-dimensional zonality in the Yellow River Basin of China
Authors: Hu Linghua , Xie Yiming , Liu Yinzhe , Chen Siyuan , Yu Haifang , Bie Qianlong , Zhao Fang , Zhao Yilin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Spatiotemporal variations of soil moisture are affected by a combination of factors many factors including climate, vegetation, human activities, of which the primary factors vary greatly in different geographical zonal dimension in the Yellow River Basin. To identify and map the dominant factors driving the spatiotemporal variation of surface soil moisture in the Yellow River Basin across different zonality from 2003 to 2018, relationships between spatiotemporal variations of soil moisture and driving factors (precipitation, evaporation, NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) and land use) were analyzed from two geographical dimensions: longitude and altitude. The results revealed that: (1) The spatial distribution of surface soil moisture in the Yellow River Basin exhibited a pattern of " higher values in the east and west, and lower values in the middle". Temporally, surface soil moisture in the Yellow River Basin showed a noteworthy upward trend from 2003 to 2018, with an average change rate of 0.00066m³/m³·yr-1 over the past 16 years. As altitude ascended, the rate of surface soil moisture initially exhibited an increase from 0.00061 m³/m³·yr⁻¹ to 0.00078 m³/m³·yr⁻¹, followed by a decline to 0.00035 m³/m³·yr⁻¹. However, above altitudes of 4500 meters, the rate once again rose, reaching 0.00084 m³/m³·yr⁻¹. (2) Among the three driving factors, climate, NDVI and land use accounted for 45%, 18% and 8% of the regional surface soil moisture variations, respectively. Climate controlling factors are mainly concentrated in the southwest, south, east and northeast, NDVI controlling factors are mainly concentrated in the central Loess Plateau and the northern Hetao plain, and land use controlling factors are mainly distributed in and around some big cities. Additionally, 29% of the area was controlled by the combined effects of these three factors, with no dominant controlling factor evident with scattered distribution. (3) From the perspective of multi-dimensional zonality, the degree of climate influence is high in the east and west, low in the middle, and increases with the increase of altitude. The influence degree of vegetation increased first and then decreased from west to east. The influence degree was greater in the central area, and the influence increased first and then decreased slightly with the altitude. The peak value appeared in the middle altitude area at 1000m. And the degree of influence of human activity intensity is slightly lower in the central part.
Semi-quantitative Computational Analysis of Plastic Additives in a FLOPP-E and SLOPP-E Database Subset
Authors: Williams Wesley Allen , Aravamudhan Shyam 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Microplastic (MPL) abundance in the environment and the biosphere is a grave problem that is confounded by many aspects, one vital aspect being the characterization of their heterogeneous matrix. Currently, spectroscopy, chromatography, and soxhelation aid in this matter. However, many of these techniques are time consuming for MPL characterization, which can include a large number of particles. Therefore, we propose a facile “Additive Analysis” algorithm that can provide the top ten matches for additives for an MPL. For our first trial, we used 2 MPL entries, from FLOPP-E (C2. Blue Fiber) and SLOPP-E (Polyester 12. Red Fiber), as a continuation of our previous work. For our second trial, we extended the use of the algorithm to a semi-randomly selected subset of MPL samples from FLOPP-E and SLOPP-E based on choosing 1 sample of each color for each polymer. Both trials’ reference used an in-lab digitization of the Hummel database for Fourier-transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and an open-source Raman spectroscopy database from Nava. We determined that the “C2. Blue Fiber” contains amounts of a metal-free phthalocyanine, potentially indicating the presence of degradation in context to the controls (t10,.05: .4879, p: .6387). For “Polyester 12. Blue Fiber,” we determined a high likelihood of significant amounts of quinone and azo-family colorants in the sample, negating a previous hypothesis of pyrrole presence (W: 0, p: .036364). For the second trial, 49/56 and 27/40 hits were generated out of the randomly selected samples, with a vast majority possessing hits (matching the color of the sample) within our most scrutinizing tolerance of 5 1/cm (77.6%/74.07%), respectively. For the FTIR portion, the top 3 IDs from tolerances of 5, 10, and 15 1/cm were benzenesulfonohydrazide (1st and 2nd Hit), titanium dioxide (4th Hit), and barium permanganate/barium sulfate (6th Hit). For the Raman portion, the top 3 IDs from tolerances of 5, 10, and 15 1/cm were PR210 (azo derivative – 2nd Hit), PB25 (azo derivative – 2nd Hit), and muscovite (mineral – 1st Hit). Lastly, the distribution for these hits appears to identify organic colorants (FTIR) and azo-derivative colorants (Raman) most dominantly. Our discussion concludes with the potential toxicological impacts of these top 6 IDs.
Loss of hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor type 1 (HAI-1) upregulates MMP-9 expression and induces degradation of the epidermal basement membrane
Authors: Weiting Liang , Kawaguchi Makiko , Fukushima Tsuyoshi , Sato Yuichiro 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor type 1 (HAI-1), which is encoded by the SPINT1 gene, is a membrane-associated serine proteinase inhibitor abundantly expressed in epithelial tissues. We had previously demonstrated that HAI-1 is critical for placental development, epidermal keratinization, and maintenance of keratinocyte morphology by regulating cognate proteases matriptase and prostasin. After performing ultrastructural analysis of Spint-1-deficient skin tissues, our results showed that Spint-1-deficient epidermis exhibited partially disrupted epidermal basement membrane structures. MMP-9 expression levels were upregulated in Spint-1-deficient primary cultured keratinocytes and HAI-1-knockout (KO) HaCaT cells. Furthermore, gelatin zymography of the conditioned medium showed increased MMP activities in keratinocytes with reduced HAI-1 expression. Treating HAI-1-KO HaCaT cells with dehydroxymethylepoxyquinomicin, a small molecule inhibitor of NF-κB, abrogated the upregulation of MMP-9 and the gelatinolytic activity associated with MMP-9. These results suggest that HAI-1 may play a critical role in epidermal basement membrane integrity by regulating NF-κB activation-induced upregulation of MMP-9.
MXene-based mild photothermal therapy synergizes STING activation to enhance the efficacy of cancer vaccines post-cryoablation
Authors: Wang Fuming , Zhu Xiaodong , Zhang Qianwen , Xie Minghui , He Lei , Guo Jiahao , Li Ang , Yang Qingsong , Yang Jijin , Li Wei 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Cryoablation (CRA) is a clinical treatment modality for minimally invasive local tumor ablation. Rare clinical reports have shown that CRA can induce a cryoimmune effect and enhance systemic anti-tumor immunity against potential metastases, a phenomenon known as the "abscopal effect". Here, we innovatively propose a sequential treatment strategy to improve the tumor immune microenvironment by activating the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and mild photothermal therapy (mPTT) before CRA, making this rare but exciting phenomenon more reproducible. Specifically, we designed functional nanosheets (Ti3C2@Au-PEG-DMXAA) based on Ti3C2 MXene, with gold nanoparticles attached to the surface, PEGylated, and loaded with the STING agonist (DMXAA). Due to the attachment of gold nanoparticles, CT-guided visual injection of the functional nanosheets was achieved. The synergistic effect of mPTT and STING pathway activation promoted the immunogenic death of tumor cells, activation of dendritic cells, repolarization of tumor-associated macrophages, and enrichment of cytotoxic T cells in the tumor microenvironment. Subsequently, sequential CRA eradicated local "hot" tumors, initiating a "cancer vaccine" effect through the in-situ gradual release of tumor-associated antigens, boosting systemic anti-tumor immunity, and generating long-term immune memory, thereby effectively inhibiting tumor recurrence and metastasis.
The effects of life-events and changes in mobility tool ownership on mode choice behaviour
Authors: Faber Roel , Cranenburgh Sander van , Kroesen Maarten , Molin Eric 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Mode choice is an essential subject within travel behaviour research. Typically, mode choice has been studied using cross-sectional (discrete choice) models, which assume that all choices are made simultaneously. In this study, we relax this assumption by explicitly incorporating the time when a choice is made within the modeling framework, using a latent transition choice model. This model allows for the identification of the effects of life-events and (changes in) mobility tool ownership on mode choice probabilities over time. To estimate the model, data from the Netherlands Mobility Panel gathered between 2016 and 2022 are used. The model identifies two latent classes, 1) a car-dependent modality style and 2) a multi-modal modality style. The transition probabilities between these classes in-between two consecutive waves are estimated, as well as the effects of life-events and mobility tool ownership on these transition probabilities. We find substantial and statistically significant effects from changes in vehicle ownership on the transition probabilities, indicating that electric bicycle ownership leads to a substitution of the car towards the bicycle on shorter-distance trips even after controlling for lead- and self-selection effects.
Effect of microplastics on the adsorption and desorption characteristics of heavy metal Ni(II) under different aging modes
Authors: Xie Anqi , Chen Su , Liang Xiao , Li Linjing , Song Yuting , Lv Meng , Liang Fangfang , Zhou Wenhui 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Plastic products have brought great convenience to people's lives, but microplastics are formed when waste plastic products are discharged and undergo weathering and degradation processes. Microplastics can act as carriers of pollutants such as heavy metals through adsorption and desorption, thus threatening the health of living organisms. In this study, typical microplastics Polystyrene (PS) and Polylactic acid (PLA) were targeted to investigate the adsorption and desorption characteristics of heavy metal nickel before and after freeze-thaw cyclic aging, alternating dry and wet aging, and alkali aging. After three kinds of aging, the specific surface area, pore size, and crystallinity of the two microplastics increased, and oxygen-containing functional groups appeared on the surface of the microplastics. Adsorption experiments demonstrated that the kinetics of nickel adsorption by microplastics was more compatible with the proposed second-order model and the adsorption isotherms were more consistent with the Langmuir model. The adsorption capacity after aging was greater than that of the original microplastics, and the adsorption capacity was alkali aging > alternating wet and dry aging > freeze-thaw cycle aging. The adsorption capacity of PLA was greater than that of PS. Alkali aging resulted in the highest amount and rate of nickel desorption from the microplastics. The results of freeze-thaw cycle aging and alternating wet and dry aging did not differ much. It provides a basis for studying the aging process of microplastics and its potential impact on the adsorption and desorption of heavy metals in the environment.
Electrothermal Properties Characterization of Transition Edge Sensor Bolometers Based on R-T Tests
Authors: Yu Qing , Li Yongping , He Kaiyong , Xu Yu , Cheng Mingjun , Li Zhengwei , Liu Jianshe , Chen Wei , Chen Guodong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Understanding the weak thermal links in support legs of transition edge sensors (TES) is essential for developing highly sensitive TES bolometers for cosmic microwave background (CMB) detection. The thermal and electrical properties of the TES are usually characterized by I-V tests with superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) in laboratories before being deployed into a telescope system. In this work, a method for testing the electrothermal properties based on R-T tests is proposed to obtain the critical temperature Tc, saturation power Psat and thermal conductance G of a TES. This method relies on that the weak thermal links of a biased TES in a non superfluid state cause the TES temperature (TTES) to be higher than the base temperature (Tb). So the Tb value at the transition edge in Tb drop test relies on the set current. The relationship between the thermal power PTES and the Tb value at the transition edge can be obtained, and parameters can be fitted by thermal conduction equation. Numerical calculations of the superconducting phase transition of the device in R-T tests were conducted, and then experimental results were obtained that reflect the expected results. The I-V testing was also conducted on the same sample, and the comparison results reflected the practicability of this method. This approach provides a simpler and more cost-effective alternative to I-V method for obtaining the electrothermal properties of TES, enriching the characterization methods.
Multi-Sensor Analysis of South Lhonak Glacier Outburst: Sentinel-1 SAR-C Perspectives
Authors: Oza Karnak , Chaturvedi Sudhir Kumar Chaturvedi , Anthony Samuel 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The Himalayan ranges, with their towering peaks and vital ecological significance, are integral to the global climate system. The Sikkim Himalayan region, in particular, is home to numerous glaciers that are crucial for regional hydrology and climate regulation. Understanding the melting patterns and retreat of these glaciers is essential for predicting and mitigating the impacts of climate change. The rapid expansion of glacial lakes, such as South Lhonak Lake, highlights the growing urgency of this issue. These glacial lake outburst Floods (GLOFs) pose significant threats to downstream communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems, underscoring the need for comprehensive monitoring and robust mitigation strategies. In October 2023, a catastrophic GLOF event from South Lhonak Lake triggered a massive surge in the Teesta River, causing widespread devastation across Sikkim, emphasizing the region's heightened vulnerability.
The use of several mechanical constitutive models in wood components and the evaluation of their effectiveness
Authors: Zhou L. , Hu X. Y. , Zhang C. , Liu H. C. , Hou X. , Xu S. K. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study comprehensively uses finite element analysis techniques to provide insight into the response of wood members under different mechanical behavior models. The study first addresses the forces on wood members in the elastic phase using a linear elastic model for simulation. It verifies its applicability in controlling deflection by the General Specification for Wood Structures requirements. Subsequently, for wood members entering the plastic deformation stage, by comparing the isotropic and anisotropic elastic-plastic models, the anisotropic model is more accurate in simulating wood's stress distribution and deformation behavior. In addition, for the visco-elastic properties of highly loaded or ancient architectural wood members, linear and nonlinear visco-elastic models are introduced in this paper to successfully simulate wood's stress response and relaxation behavior under different loading conditions. The results show that the visco-elastic model can accurately capture the complex mechanical behavior of wood under dynamic loading and long-term loading. The above studies provide crucial theoretical support and technical guidance for timber components' design, performance evaluation, and long-term stability.
Barriers to AI Course Assistant Adoption: Understanding Student Non-Utilization at LAPU
Authors: Hanshaw George 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study explores the factors contributing to the non-utilization of the AI course assistant Spark among some students at Los Angeles Pacific University (LAPU). Despite the demonstrated benefits of AI in enhancing academic performance, motivation, and learning efficiency, a proportion of students choose not to engage with this technology. Using a mixed-methods exploratory approach, this research identifies key barriers to adoption, including perceptions of unnecessity, lack of interest, and unfamiliarity with AI tools. The study further examines external factors such as technical challenges and a preference for traditional learning methods. By combining sentiment analysis with thematic analysis of student survey responses, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of the underlying reasons for non-use. The findings suggest that targeted strategies, such as improving communication about the benefits of AI tools, offering training to increase familiarity, and integrating AI more seamlessly into coursework could enhance the adoption and effectiveness of AI course assistants. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on AI in education and offers practical recommendations for educators and institutions aiming to maximize the impact of AI technologies on student learning outcomes.
Neural Re-Contextualization for Dynamic Semantic Control in Large Language Models
Authors: Hawks Florentine , Falkenberg Gideon , Verbruggen Magnus , Molnar Evander 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Large-scale computational models have demonstrated impressive capabilities in generating contextually relevant text across a broad array of language tasks; however, maintaining coherence and responsiveness over extended, complex interactions remains a substantial technical challenge. Neural Re-Contextualization (NRC) emerges as an innovative framework, offering a transformative approach to address this challenge through adaptive semantic recalibration within model architectures. NRC integrates probabilistic modeling, adaptive neural nodes, and selective attention mechanisms to facilitate dynamic adjustment of contextually significant elements, ensuring continuity and precision in extended conversational settings. Empirical findings reveal that NRC substantially enhances performance metrics, including semantic precision, contextual coherence, and computational efficiency, compared to traditional LLM frameworks. With a design that prioritizes real-time contextual alignment, NRC demonstrates considerable potential for applications across specialized fields, such as customer service, medical diagnostics, and legal advisory systems, where accuracy and responsiveness are critical. Ultimately, NRC presents a foundational shift toward achieving truly adaptive language models capable of complex, context-aware interaction across diverse conversational landscapes.
The Development and Validation of the Religious Schema Questionnaire (ReSQue)
Authors: Shaban Taregh , Grey Ian , Steel Craig , Bower Jo , Cody Brettjet 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
This study advances the field through the development and validation of the Religious Schema Questionnaire (ReSQue), a tool designed to assess misinterpretations of religious beliefs and associated distressing emotions, conceptualized as neurotogenic religious schemata. The ReSQue is specifically designed for use among religious Muslims. The research was motivated by the suspected influence of misinterpreted religious beliefs on mental health outcomes within conservative Muslim populations.
Methods
The construction of two versions of the 18-item ReSQue underwent a three-phase development and validation process including both exploratory and confirmatory analyses in phases two and three. Other psychometric properties were also examined by correlating ReSQue scores with established psychological measures.
Results
Factor analysis confirmed the structural integrity of the ReSQue, aligned with prior qualitative findings (citation omitted) and established psychological constructs. The ReSQue demonstrated strong internal consistency and robust convergent validity. Moreover, the ReSQue was found to be more sensitive to neurotogenic beliefs than to general negative beliefs, highlighting its utility in identifying distress associated with misinterpreted religious beliefs.
Conclusion
The ReSQue represents a substantial advancement in the study of religion and mental health within certain Muslim contexts. Its development addresses the need for culturally sensitive mental health assessment tools, particularly in light of the high prevalence rates of mental health disorders in Muslim populations. Clinically, the ReSQue facilitates the identification of specific idiosyncratic religious beliefs that can be integrated into psychotherapy for Muslim clients, potentially enhancing therapeutic outcomes and providing more culturally responsive care.