bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influencing factors of decision-making and lower limb motor function in speed skaters
Authors: Pang Bo , Ji Zhongqiu , Zhu Lei 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose Measuring and comparing the resting-state brain functional connectivity of skaters at different levels, by comparing the differences between various indicators of high-level and low-level athletes which provides theoretical reference for beginners to improve their skill level during movement practice.
Methods More than five years of high level speed skaters, low level speed skaters as the subjects, Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) changes in the resting state cerebral cortex, Corresponding the spatial coordinates to the functional network, Divided into the default network (DMN), the ventral attention network (VAN), the somatomotor network (SMN) and the visual network (VN), include four functional brain networks. The knee flexion / extension moment and total work, ankle plantar flexion / dorsiflexion and valgus / varus torque and total work were tested by the isokinetic muscle strength system.
Results and conclusions (1) Long-term skating training can enhance brain executive function, promote the functional connection within and between different functional networks of the brain, mainly by the sensorimotor network. (2) Long-term skating training promotes the efficiency of the cerebral cortex, which makes the information transmission and collaborative processing of the sensorimotor network more efficient, reflecting the unique benefits of skating training. (3) Speed skating squatting practice with ankle strategy to regulate posture stability, has a positive role in improving the ankle joint plantar flexion torque, the faster the joint angle speed changes, the smaller the torque change, so the appropriate slow speed is conducive to make the torque peak.
The m6A writer METTL5 promotes LUSC progression by enhancing CDC45 translation.
Authors: Fu Jianjun , Yan Yang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Abnormal N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications were associated with the occurrence, development, and metastasis of Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). However, the functions and mechanisms of m6A regulators in LUSC remained largely unclear. Here, we identified that METTL5 was specifically overexpressed and associated with poor prognosis in LUSC. Importantly, METTL5 promoted LUSC cell progression in an m6A-dependent manner, METTL5 silencing significantly inhibited proliferation and migratory ability of tumor cells in vitro. Mechanistically, METTL5 increased the translation of cell division cycle protein 45 (CDC45) via 18S rRNA methyltransferase. Therefore, our findings indicated that m6A writer METTL5 contributed to tumorigenesis and poor prognosis, providing a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for LUSC.
A study on critical dislocation of gasket for segmental linings of shield tunnels
Authors: Guo Xuan , Li Zhitong , Yuan Senyang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Dislocation of segments in shield tunnels significantly contributes to joint leakage, making it crucial to identify the critical dislocation amount of segment linings. To explore the waterproofing mechanism of sealing gaskets under water pressure, a structural coupling finite element analysis model was created. This model simulates water intrusion dynamics at segment joints, analyzing contact stress distribution and waterproof performance across various dislocation amounts. The comparison of finite element calculations with experimental data shows a positive correlation, although simulation results are slightly lower than experimental findings. The analysis demonstrates that lower effective contact stress due to dislocation increases leakage risk. In small deformation ranges, opposite segment constraints can enhance gasket contact, reducing leakage risks. However, exceeding critical dislocation leads to leakage. Findings indicate that as dislocation increases, the effective contact stress between the gasket and groove first decreases, then increases. A dislocation of 9 mm and an opening of 8 mm yield the lowest effective contact stress proportion and worst waterproof performance, marking a critical point for sealing water pressure changes. This study provides a scientific basis for determining critical dislocation amounts, optimizing joint sealing performance, and reducing leakage in shield tunnels.
Medical Students' Perceptions: Motivations, Barriers, and Engagement in Research among Sudanese Universities
Authors: Hariri Abdulrahman Al , Ali Hazza , Gumah Abdelgadir , ‎ Ahmed Alghoshimi , Sharif Marah , ‎ Hipatalla Abdelgadir , Fadul Mona ‎ , Ali Yagin , ‎ Roua ‎ Altjany , ‎ Mohamed ‎ Mohamed , Adam Mohamed , Dhounourein Mohamed , ‎ Jalal ‎ Altabaa 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study explores the perceptions of medical students at Sudanese universities regarding scientific research. This research aims to understand their views on the importance, impact, and challenges of conducting research during their medical education. Data were collected from 139 students through a structured questionnaire. The findings reveal significant insights into students' awareness, attitudes, and obstacles in research activities.
Factors associated with false-positive screening mammography in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Câmara Alice Barros , Duarte Luciane Simões , Cury Lise Cristina , Filho Victor Wünsch 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

There is limited data on the influence of various factors on mammography accuracy in low- and middle-income regions. In this cross-sectional study using registry data, we examined the sensitivity of screening mammograms by comparing mammography results with biopsies-confirmed breast cancer diagnoses in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Additionally, we evaluate factors related to the screened women and to the breast lesions that could affect false-positive mammograms results. All screening mammograms conducted from January to December 2012 and biopsy results from January 2012 to December 2013 in the São Paulo State were retrieved from the Brazilian Breast Cancer Information System. We gathered details on women-related factors such as age, hormone therapy usage, prior radiotherapy, skin color, education level, skin type, breast density, and familial history of cancer, as well as on breast lesions, including type, size, characteristics, edges, and topographic site on the breast. To assess the risk effect of these factors on false-positive mammography results, we employed the logistic regression analyses. Our results indicate that age under 50 years, use of hormone therapy, dense breasts, lesions smaller than 10 mm with defined edges, and the presence of calcifications were predictors of false-positive mammograms results. Finally, we observed that false-positive lead to longer times to diagnosis. These findings are relevant for the planning and management of organized breast cancer screening programs.
Detecting Spatiotemporal Shifts in Precipitation Core Regions Using a Centroid-Based Identification Method and Its Application in China
Authors: W Yusong , Bai Hua , Yang Xiaoxiao , Wen Zhenyu , Zhang Yang , Li Bin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The spatiotemporal regime of precipitation determines the level and variation of regional water resources, influencing management responses and adjustments. Identifying regional precipitation patterns is crucial for recognizing and predicting hydrological regimes. This paper proposes a new centroid-based cooperative identification method for regional precipitation and its spatiotemporal shifts. This method was verified by comparing the spatial shifting trends between the centroids of regional annual precipitation and the contour lines of mean annual precipitation in four regions of China, using the Köppen climate classification method. The results indicate that within the Cwa climate region, the average latitude of the centroid increased by 5.8%, while the average longitude increased by 0.51% in recent years. In the Dfc climate region, the average latitude of the centroid increased by 0.38%, and the average longitude by 0.63% over the same period. These centroids showed a northward shifting tendency in the mentioned climate regions. Differently, in the Dwa region, the centroid’s average latitude shifted from 42.29 degrees to 41.57 degrees, while the average longitude shifted from 105 degrees to 110.03 degrees. Additionally, in the HG region, the centroid’s average latitude shifted from 32.06 degrees to 32.58 degrees, and the average longitude from 93.95 degrees to 97.73 degrees. Furthermore, on an interdecadal time scale, the precipitation centroids within the four climate zones consistently exhibit a northward shift. Overall, the centroids have shown a northward movement in China in recent years. This paper provides a theoretical basis for water resource management and hydrological forecasting, aiding in the analysis of the spatiotemporal transfer trends of precipitation in the context of climate change.
Erosion Rate Study of Yardang Landforms Downstream of the Peacock River
Authors: Youliang Bai , Li Bo , Rong Jinhong , Chen Hui , Zheng Jinming , Liu Jianshe , Bao Tan , Jin Jiangnan , Wang Chuan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Yardang landforms are significant subjects for research concerning climate change, geomorphological evolution, aeolian sand management, and ecosystem stability. The Lop Nur area, as the origin of the term "Yardang," has seen limited in-depth studies of its Yardang landform development and evolution. This paper integrates field surveys of Yardang landforms downstream of the Peacock River, 14C dating, optical dating, large-scale topographic mapping, and 3D laser scanning to investigate the erosion rates of these landforms. The key findings are as follows: (1) The average erosion rate of the Yardang landforms downstream of the Peacock River since 565 ± 25a BP is between 1.54 and 0.00 cm/year, with 88.32% of the area experiencing rates between 1.37 and 0.55 cm/year; currently, 72% of the area is undergoing erosion at rates ranging from 3.0 to 0.0 cm/year, with 17.30% of that area experiencing rates between 1.2 and 0.6 cm/year, and 38.70% experiencing less than 0.6 cm/year. The current erosion rates are significantly lower than historical averages, with some low-lying areas currently accumulating sediment; (2) A comprehensive research method has been established, based on the developmental patterns of Yardang landforms for historical average erosion rates and on 3D laser scanning for current erosion rates. This method has enabled the determination of both historical average and current erosion rates in the Yardang area downstream of the Peacock River. The establishment of a permanent erosion monitoring network in this area will support long-term tracking and monitoring of Yardang landform development and provide a foundation for research on climate change, geomorphological evolution, aeolian sand management, and ecosystem stability in the region; (3) The study systematically determined the deposition time, exposure time, and erosion time related to Yardang development downstream of the Peacock River, which are 2.8 ± 0.3ka BP, 1900a BP, and 565 ± 25a BP, respectively. These findings are crucial for understanding the evolution of Yardang landforms in the area and will facilitate the advancement of numerical simulations towards long-term geomorphological evolution research. The study provides insights into the timing of Yardang landform development, historical and current erosion rates, and establishes a comprehensive research methodology, which is essential for quantitative research on the formation and development environment of Yardang landforms downstream of the Peacock River.
Effectiveness of different bio-fertilizer on growth, yield and yield attributing character of Faba bean (Vicia fabae L.)
Authors: Mossa Mohammed Mebrahtu , Gebrekidan Daniel , Mesele Etsay , Kasegn Melaku Mekonen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The excessive use of chemical fertilizers has led to soil depletion of essential minerals, causing microorganisms to be distracted and reducing the distribution of soil fauna and flora. The field experiment examined the impact of biofertilizer (Rhizobium and Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria) and blended fertilizer (NPKSZn) on the growth, yield, and yield-attributing characteristics of Faba bean. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with eight treatments. The result revealed that the application of biofertilizer significantly (P < 0.05) affected the growth and yield characteristics of faba bean. The longest grain filling period (51.42 days), tallest plant height (148.2cm), Maximum nodulation (79.58), number of branches (6.42), pod per plant (34.08), highest thousand seed weight (699.9 g), grain (2369 kg ha-1), and biological yield (3942 kg ha-1), and the lowest chocolate spot disease severity index (13.33%) was noticed in dual inoculation of Rhizobium and PSB along with recommended dose of NPKSZn in both growing seasons. The highest net benefit (48174.9 ETB per ha) with an acceptable maximum marginal rate of return (789.26%) was recorded in dual inoculation of seed with Rhizobium and PSB. Therefore inoculations of Rhizobium and PSB enhance the production and productivity and reduce the chocolate spot infestation level. Hence the seed must be inoculated with a dual culture of Rhizobium and PSB along with another package of practices for the crop.
Peanut production in saline-alkali land of Yellow River Delta: influence of spatiotemporal changes of meteorological conditions and soil properties
Authors: Qin Feifei , Xin Zhihong , Wang Jianguo , Zhang Jialei , Yang Jishun , Guo Feng , Ci Dunwei 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: This study analyzed the synergistic relationship among annual changes in agro-meteorological factors, soil characteristics and peanut growth in saline-alkali land near the estuary of the Yellow River Delta. We aimed to find the key factors affecting peanut production to optimize and regulate peanut planting mode in saline alkali soil.
Results: The daily average temperature from early May to late September in Lijin and Kenli was above 24°C, with 470–600 mm of precipitation. The sunshine hours was 7.9 h and 7.3 h and the accumulated temperature was 3742°C and 3809°C, in Lijin and Kenli, respectively. Agro-meteorological conditions were suitable for peanut growth and development with the consistent main developmental period in the two experiment regions. The best sowing period was when the soil temperature stabilized above 18°C in early May, and the best harvest was in mid to late September. The soil volumetric water content in Lijin concentrated among 25% to 40%. Salt mainly distributed in the 40–60 cm soil layers, and increased rapidly to 2.5 g kg-1 in 0–20 cm cultivation layer in mid-May due to lack of precipitation.
In Kenli experiment region, the soil volumetric water content ranged from 10% to 35%, and soil salinity was concentrated in the 20 cm soil layer, not affected by rainfall. From mid-July to mid-August, the effective accumulated temperature of 5 cm soil layer was above 520°C in both two regions, which could ensure the normal pod development. The low kernel dynamic growth, high unfilled pod rate (26.99%) and low shelling rate (66.0%) might be the main reasons for low peanut yield in Lijin.
Conclusion: From the analysis of the synergistic relationship among “meteorology-peanut-soil”, soil salinity was the main factor affecting pod development and yield. It was also a key point in optimizing the peanut planting mode in the saline alkali land of the Yellow River Delta.
Exploring Theory of Mind for Agent Coordination in Constrained Operating Environments
Authors: Baillie Emma , Singh Ronal , Desai Prajakta , Miller Tim 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This paper explores the application of the Theory of Mind (ToM) for achieving coordination between agents operating in constrained environments where the observation and communication capability of the agents is limited by the operating conditions. We use ToM for intention/action recognition and belief estimation in peer agents. We run extensive simulations with varied ToM capability settings in agents for two complex tasks: cooperative resource delivery and cooperative goal observation. The results indicate that in most cases, agents with higher-level ToM for intention and belief inferencing solved the tasks more effectively than the agents with lower levels of ToM. Higher-level ToM produced good results in time-constrained settings and promoted inter-agent cooperation for joint action planning even for low-observability conditions. However, for tasks with longer horizons, higher-level ToM was only effective when significant computation time was available to the agents. With smaller computational budgets, instead of modelling agents with ToM capability, using a look-ahead solution with a longer planning horizon rather than a shorter planning horizon with ToM leads to more effective solutions. These results are important as they are the first experiments demonstrating the effect of ToM for constrained environments, and they show the significance of agent modelling in developing a shared understanding of the environment and demonstrate that it is necessary to consider the trade-off between agent modelling vs. planning look-ahead.
Systematic analysis of non-melanoma skin cancer burden: a comparative study between China and the world from 1990 to 2021 and prediction to 2036
Authors: Liang Su , Wang Xue , Cao Juan Mei , Jia Xue Song 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Comparative analysis of the characteristics and trends of the burden of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in China and globally will provide a basis for the development of effective prevention and control measures in China.
Methods
Data related to incidence, death and disability-adjusted life year (DALY) of NMSC in China and the world were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 database. The average annual percentage of change (AAPC) was estimated by the Joinpoint regression model to reflect the time trend. Bayesian age-period-cohort model was constructed for prediction.
Results
From 1990 to 2021, the increase rates (707.31%, 16.00%, and 10.04%) and upward trends (AAPC = 6.71% (95%: 6.01%~7.18%), 0.46% (95%: 0.40%~0.52%), and 0.28% ( 95%: 0.22%~0.34%)) of the NMSC age standardized incidence, mortality, and DALY rate in China were higher than the global level. Both the incidence of NMSC and its rise were higher in men than in women, and the levels of death and DALY were higher in men but rose more rapidly in women. The high incidence, mortality, and DALY rate of NMSC all occurred in the higher age groups. The age-standardized incidence of NMSC in China and globally was predicted to continue to rise over the next 15 years, while the age-standardized mortality rate will decline.
Conclusion
The burden of NMSC in China remained serious, especially in the context of an increasingly aging population. Relevant authorities should continue to develop and optimize preventive and control measures, especially for men, and adopt targeted measures to significantly reduce the burden of NMSC.
Anti-inflammatory Effect of Nestorone in a Lipopolysaccharide-induced Acute Lung Injury Model through Regulation of the TLR-4/Myd88/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ma Aying , Zou Jieyun , Zou Hui , Yuan Li , Zhong Ruihua , Zhu Yan , Gao Chao 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Progesterone plays a crucial and indispensable role in regulating immunity and attenuating inflammation. Nestorone ® (NES, segesterone acetate) is a steroidal progestin and a 19-norprogesterone derivative with no -CH3 group radical at the 6-position. Here, we showed that NES enhanced the viability of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated THP-1 cell-derived macrophages, potently inhibiting both arms of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) signaling cascade triggered by LPS, especially the TLR-4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. In addition, NES exerted an anti-inflammatory effect by significantly decreasing the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in type II alveolar epithelial A549 cells and THP-1 cell-derived macrophages stimulated by LPS. Furthermore, we evaluated the potential of pre-treatment with NES 2 hours before LPS treatment to rescue the lung from acute LPS-induced injury, using an LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) mouse model. In this study NES alleviated lung inflammation and damage through reducing leukocyte infiltration and inflammatory cytokines in mouse bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues. Interestingly, we found that NES at 1 mg/kg was superior to 0.1 or 10 mg/kg or to dexamethasone (DEX, 5 mg/kg) in prolonging survival in mice experiencing lethal LPS-induced injury, decreasing acute lung inflammation, and alleviating diffuse alveolar damage in the lungs of C57 mice. Overall, our study suggested that concentration was one of the key factors in determining the anti-inflammatory potency of NES, and therefore NES may serve as a promising novel therapeutic agent to treat pulmonary inflammatory diseases such as ALI/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by modulating TLR-4 signaling.
GnRH agonist trigger fresh embryo transfers have similar outcomes but a lower dropout rate than freeze-all strategy: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Federico Cirillo , Camilla Ronchetti , Raffaella De Cesare , Maura Cortese , Emanuela Morenghi , Valeria Scolaro , Antonella Smeraldi , Baggiani Annamaria , Emanuele Levi-Setti Paolo 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: To compare pregnancy and delivery rate of the first fresh versus the first freeze all warming embryo transfer following a GnRH antagonist stimulation protocol with a GnRH agonist trigger. The secondary objective was to evaluate the dropout rate and the safety of the two approaches.
Methods: A cohort retrospective study, set in a single university tertiary care fertility center. This study included all the first embryo transfers derived from oocyte retrievals performed between 01/01/2012 and 31/12/2020, following 1,396 GnRH antagonist induction cycles with GnRH agonist trigger. A total of 429 fresh (group A) and 967 warming embryo transfers (group B) were included.
Results: The pregnancy and delivery rate resulted comparable in the two groups (Group A: 41.72%; Group B: 42.92%, p 0.678 and Group A: 35.43%; Group B: 33.20%, p 0.415, respectively). The only significant differences recorded were an increased miscarriage rate in Group B (p=0.008) and an increased multiple birth rate (p<0.001) and a lower dropout rate (p 0.010) in Group A.
Conclusion: GnRH antagonist stimulation protocol with GnRH analogue trigger has been demonstrated to be an effective and safe technique. In addition, a subsequent fresh embryo transfer still represents a valid therapeutic option for physicians providing the desired outcomes in the first embryo transfer, with a lower dropout rate than the freeze-all strategy.
ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT05362734, retrospectively registered on 11rd May 2022