bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enterococcus faecalis promotes orthodontic tooth movement in mice by M1-like macrophage polarization
Authors: Zhao Zhihe , Yu Fei , Lu Wenxin , Li Peilin , Peng Jiajia 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Probiotic-mediated therapy has garnered increasing attention for its potential role in influencing bone remodeling. Recent studies have consistently shown that the microorganisms can play a role in modulating bone reconstruction. In this study, we aim to explore the impact of probiotics on accelerating orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). Potential probiotic candidates will be identified through 16S rRNA gene sequencing in a mouse model of OTM. The relative abundance of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) increased in the move group. To investigate the osteoimmunomodulatory impact, primary periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) were obtained from mouse periodontal ligaments and cultured with or without conditioned media (CM) derived from macrophages post-incubation with E. faecalis. The results demonstrated that E. faecalis increased the number of M1-polarized macrophages, and a decreased osteogenic level in PDLCs treated with CM E. faecalis group. Subsequently, the microbiota of the mice has be depleted using broad-spectrum antibiotic mixture (ABX) before being administered with E. faecalis. The distance of OTM have been measured, and the alveolar bone have been analyzed using micro-CT and immunohistochemical staining. This study has explored the potential effects of E. faecalis administration on the OTM process through immunomodulation. We assessed the efficacy of E. faecalis in accelerating tooth movement, and elucidated the mechanisms by which E. faecalis modulate M1-like macrophage polarization to enhance OTM. This research will lead to an acceleration in the duration of orthodontic treatment with minimal interventions, thereby offering significant value and pioneering advancements in orthodontic treatment.
Equating low-cost natural farming vis-à-vis integrated crop management and organic practices in groundnut-wheat cropping system in Gujarat Plains of India
Authors: Praharaj Chandra Sekhar , Reddy Kiran , Chilwal Aaradhana , Hirapara Keval 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

A comprehensive field experiment was carried out at Gujarat Plains in India during both rainy and winter seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24 for exploring the feasibility and viability of low-cost natural farming in groundnut-based cropping system on a low-fertility medium black calcareous soil. The experiment compared natural farming (NF), conventional farming (CF, or most popularly called as Integrated Crop Management or ICM practice), and organic farming (OF), using two groundnut cultivars, GJG-22 (Virginia bunch habit) and TG 37-A (Spanish Bunch habit). Following groundnut, two wheat cultivars (GW 451 and Lok 1) were grown in rotation during winter seasons, after a preceding fodder crop of pearl millet (taken before experimentation for eliminating soil heterogeneity). The results showed that ICM practices resulted in realization of the highest pod (1702–1822 kg/ha), haulm (2710–2740 kg/ha), total (4413–4562 kg/ha), and kernel (1202–1259 kg/ha) yields, consistently outperforming over both NF and OF. NF practices resulted in 19% and 23% reduction in pod yield over the two years’ evaluation period compared to ICM practice. Economic returns, growth parameters, and system productivities (groundnut-wheat together) followed the same trend as that of pod yield; and these values were the highest under ICM, which integrated chemical fertilizers, manure, and pesticides. The performance of organic practice was in between these two (ICM and NF). In wheat alone, ICM practice adopted plots had the highest yields and economic returns, with GW 451 outperforming Lok 1. The optimal NPK uptake ratios were identified as 6.8:1.0:2.2 for groundnut and 3.9:1.0:3.3 for wheat, emphasizing on balanced nutrient application. In conclusion, ICM practices ensure adequate nutrient supply and optimal crop growth, leading to higher productivity and profitability. Therefore, the study focuses on optimizing nutrient management in achieving sustainable and profitable agricultural production systems, balancing both high-input conventional farming and eco-friendly low-cost natural farming practices in the future.
Decoupling of high-pressure H2 production from serpentinization and magnetite in subduction zones
Authors: Siron Guillaume , Blanchard Marc , Aufort Julie , Williams Simon , Vitale-Brovarone Alberto 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Serpentinization plays a central role in geological, geochemical, and microbiological processes at various depths and conditions. While mineralogical and geochemical patterns of serpentinization are known at low-pressure and temperature, equivalent processes taking place at much greater depths and elevated temperatures in subduction zones are less constrained. Here we present the results of thermodynamic calculations simulating chemically complex aqueous alteration of ultramafic rocks relevant to three evolutionary stages of subduction, from infancy to maturity, and for three different fluid sources, namely metabasite, metasediment, and serpentinite. We found that magnetite production and H2 and CH4 concentrations are decoupled from serpentinization at these conditions, and strongly dependent upon minimal peridotite compositional variations. This has major implications on the interpretation of geophysical investigations of hydrated mantle wedge domains. Carbon isotopes exhibit large variations (> 10‰) for minimal changing compositions in some cases, with important implications on the isotopic diversity of high-temperature abiotic CH4.
Quantitative Analysis of EXAFS Data Sets Using Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Jeong Eun-Suk , Hwang In-Hui , Han Sang-Wook 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) serves as a unique tool for accurately characterizing the local structural properties surrounding specific atoms. However, the quantitative analysis of EXAFS data demands significant effort. Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, including deep reinforcement learning (RL) methods, present a promising avenue for the rapid and precise analysis of EXAFS data sets. Unlike other AI approaches, a deep RL method utilizing reward values does not necessitate a large volume of data sets for training the neural network (NN) of the AI system. We explored the application of a deep RL method for the quantitative analysis of EXAFS data sets, utilizing the reciprocal of the R-factor of a fit as the reward metric. The deep RL method effectively determined the local structural properties of PtOx and Zn-O complexes by fitting a series of EXAFS data sets to theoretical EXAFS calculations without imposing specific constraints. Looking ahead, AI has the potential to independently analyze any EXAFS data, although there are still challenges to overcome.
Comparative Study of Ground-Based and Satellite Observations of Pc5 Geomagnetic Pulsations During Solar Cycle 23
Authors: Sebwato Nasurudiin , Yoshikawa Akimasa , Mahrous Ayman , Elsaid Ahmed 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Pc5 geomagnetic pulsations (PGP) are ultra-low frequency (ULF) waves within the 1–7 mHz frequency band observed both in space and on the ground. PGPs offer versatile methods for studying the interaction between the magnetosphere and ionosphere in space. This study presents a comparative analysis of Pc5 pulsations observed in space and on the ground. The dataset used is the magnetic field-aligned readings obtained from the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-10 (GOES-10) and ground-based magnetometer stations from the Svalbard network located in the auroral zone during solar cycle 23. Using the Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) method, we transformed the magnetic field time series from GOES-10 into the mean field-aligned coordinate system. PGPs were extracted from the toroidal component using a bandpass Butterworth filter. In addition, Pc5 waves were extracted from the Bz component of the ground magnetometer stations to enable effective comparison. Before conducting the comparative analysis, both Pc5 events on the ground and in space were denoised using the heuristic Stein Unbiased Risk Estimate (SURE) approach with soft thresholding. Consequently, a good coherence between events from space and on the ground was observed, indicating the possibility of the same generation source. However, space-borne Pc5 events have a smaller average amplitude of 21 nT compared to Pc5 events observed on the ground having an average amplitude of 350 nT. We attributed this difference in amplitude to the transformative mechanisms during the wave's propagation to the ground. The average percentage of occurrence of Pc5 geomagnetic pulsations observed in space was found to be 94%, and that on the ground was 86%. The percentage difference was found to be due to the spatial distribution of these waves. The integrity of the retrieved events was demonstrated by the strong correlation between the Kp index and events extracted from the ground magnetometer stations. Our results demonstrate a good understanding of Pc5 geomagnetic pulsations to the space weather community. This will help in developing forecasting and predictive models for effective studies of these waves, mitigating the potential impacts of such events on human activities and infrastructure.
Autochthonous Lactic Acid Bacteria from Kadidd as Functional Starter Culture to Improve quality and safety
Authors: Boubakri Kamel , Idoui Tayeb , Ficoseco Cecilia Aristimuño , Segli Franco J. , Castellano Patricia , Saavedra Lucila , Vignolo Graciela M. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from meat dry-salted Kaddid were evaluated using spoilage and safety criteria as a first step of multivariable selection. LAB were isolated, identified and characterized from Kaddid prepared under controlled conditions. After preliminary physiological characterization, isolates (n = 39) were subjected to (GTG)5-PCR analysis and 16S rRNA sequencing. Major LAB populations were, Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum (41%), Latilactobacillus sakei/subsp. sakei (25%), Enterococcus faecium (13%), Pediococcus acidilactici (10%), Enterococcus hirae (6%) and Weissella cibaria (5%). Antagonistic activity against pathogens/contaminants and yeast/molds showed strains with antilisterial and antifungal activity. Bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances (BLIS) showed high titles (AU/mL) against L. monocytogenes FBUNT. The examination of bacteriocin genes revealed Lpb. paraplantarum K18, Lat. sakei K25 and Lat. sakei subsp. sakei K22, K26 strains harboring skgA and sakP structural genes encoding for sakacin G and P bacteriocins. Resistance/susceptibility of lactobacilli strains to antibiotics showed high phenotypic resistance to TET while multi-resistance pattern was displayed by enterococci. Genotypic characterization exhibited only tetM out of 15 assayed genes, conferring resistance to TET. As a quality criterion, no exopolysaccharides and biogenic amines production were detected in the evaluated strains. Based on these results, Lpb. paraplantarum K18 and K21 strains, with inhibitory and antifungal activities, phenotypical susceptibility to the assayed antimicrobial compounds and low risk as spoilers, could be used as functional starter cultures for safe Kaddid production.
Advanced Microgrid Protection for Ground Fault Management Utilizing IEC 61131-3 Programming and Zero Sequence Components in Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing
Authors: Alasali Feras , El-Naily Naser , Mustafa Haytham Y. , Loukil Hassen , Saad Saad M. , Saidi Abdelaziz Salah , Holderbaum William 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Microgrid protection and ground fault management are critical aspects of modern power distribution systems, especially with the increasing integration of Distributed Generators (DGs) such as renewable energy sources. Effective protection schemes are essential to ensure the reliability, safety, and resilience of microgrids under various fault conditions. This study addresses a new advancement to microgrid protection and ground fault management. Firstly, the research integrates zero sequence components into the time-inverse characteristics of phase Overcurrent Relays (OCR) and create dynamic scheme between two group settings for phase and ground faults. This enhancement improves ground fault detection and provides robust backup for ground OCR, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of microgrid protection schemes. Secondly, the study demonstrates the use of Configurable Function Blocks (CFCs) in digital relays to dynamically adjust relay settings based on zero sequence current detection. This functionality optimizes relay performance under varying fault conditions, addressing mis-coordination issues in low-value ground fault scenarios at traditional OCR scheme and improving fault detection and clearance times. The proposed strategy is extensively validated through Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing, ensuring its feasibility and effectiveness in real-world scenarios. HIL testing confirms the practical applicability and robustness of the proposed protection scheme, enhancing its reliability. Finally, the study provides a comprehensive framework for the implementation of the proposed protection strategy in real-case protective relays. It includes a detailed methodology and validation process, offering practical guidance for operators to implement and optimize microgrid protection systems.
A retrospective study to predict failure of high-flow oxygen therapy for acute hypoxic respiratory failure
Authors: Xue Mingming , Liao Fengqing , Xu Feixiang , Chen Yumei , Wang Sheng , Zhou Yannan , Ding Hailin , Lu Su , Yao Chenling , Song Zhenju , Shao Mian 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective The objective of this study is to analyse the characteristics of patients who fail high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy for the treatment of acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure and to identify predictors of treatment failure. Methods This was a single-centre, retrospective, observational study. Clinical data from 388 patients with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure were analysed. Patients were divided into two groups: the high flow oxygen therapy success group ( HFNC-S group ) and the high flow oxygen therapy failure group ( HFNC-F group ). The primary endpoint was the need for escalation of respiratory support to tracheal intubation in the enrolled patients. The demographic data, laboratory tests, blood gas analysis data, CT severity scores, and disease severity scores were analysed to determine the difference between patients who were successful and those who failed HFNC treatment. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess potential predictors of failure of HFNC for patients with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure. Results The mean age of patients enrolled was 67.97 ± 14.40 years. The HFNC-S group comprised 256 patients, while the HFNC-F group had 132 patients. The PSI score, CURB-65 score, CPIS score, CT score and SOFA score of the HFNC-F group were found to be significantly higher than those of the HFNC-S group. Within 12 hours of the initiation of treatment, the HFNC-F group exhibited significantly lower oxygen saturation index (PaO2/FiO2) and significantly higher respiratory rate than the HFNC-S group. Additionally, the HFNC-F group exhibited significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), platelet count (PLT), D-dimer, interleukin-10 (IL-10), total bilirubin (TB) and creatinine (CB) than the HFNC-S group. Conversely, the HFNC-F group exhibited significantly lower albumin levels than the HFNC-S group. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis model, the CT score, SOFA score, IL-1β and albumin were identified as independent predictors of failure of high-flow nasal oxygen therapy. Conclusion High-flow oxygen can effectively treat patients with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure. Chest CT severity score, SOFA score, IL-1β and albumin were independent predictors of failure of high-flow nasal oxygen therapy.
Factors Influencing Compliance with Chemotherapy Handling and Administration Standard Operation Procedures Among Nurses And Pharmacists At Uganda Cancer Institute
Authors: Oyuku Milton , Nshakira Nathan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aimed to identify factors influencing compliance with chemotherapy handling and administration standard operating procedures (SOPs) among nurses and pharmacists at the Uganda Cancer Institute outpatient and pharmacy.
Methods
This descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to July 2022 using self-administered questionnaires, interviews, and physical observations with a checklist. Data were entered into Excel and analyzed using Stata.
Results
Compliance with SOPs among nurses was 56%, while non-compliance was 44%. Among pharmacists, compliance was 53% and non-compliance was 47%.
Conclusions
Compliance was primarily influenced by individual factors such as knowledge and attitudes. Age, education level, and years of service did not affect compliance. Occupational factors, like facility availability and staff supervision, significantly influenced compliance. Organizational factors, including training, communication with management, and management's commitment to health and safety, also impacted compliance. While organizational factors affected individual and occupational factors, the latter two did not influence each other.
Dual Contraception Method Use and Determinant Factors Among HIV-positive Women of Reproductive age in Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia, An institutional based Cross- sectional Study
Authors: goshu mihiretu tesfamariam , Ali Mahidere Wondiye , Haji Yusuf 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The use of dual contraception method (DCM) is recommended as an effective method to prevent Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission and the adverse consequences of pregnancy in people living with HIV infection. In developing countries like Ethiopia contraception use is subjected to sociocultural, knowledge and accessibility related factors that influence consumption. Accordingly, this study aims to explore the magnitude of DCM use and factors related to consumption in HIV positive women of reproductive age.
Methods
An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Hawassa University comprehensive Hospital, located in Hawassa city, Ethiopia. The study used systematic sampling technique to select 268 consenting participants. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaire via face-to-face interview. Descriptive statistics were used to present background information and a hierarchical binary logistic regression was used to investigate DCM use predictive factors.
Results
The magnitude of DCM use was 30% (95% CI; 24.0–35.0). After controlling for potential confounding variables women aged 15–36 years, (AOR = 8.65, 95% CI: 2.60, 28.75) and 37–40 years, (AOR = 6.25, 95% CI, 2.08, 18.82), women with no fertility desire (AOR = 8.34, 95% CI: 3.95, 17.61), women who have open discussions with their partners (AOR = 5.71, 95% CI: 2.15, 15.11), and women with knowledge of CD4 count (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.35, 6.38) were found to have higher likelihood of DCM use.
Conclusions
The magnitude of DCM use among reproductive age HIV positive women was unsatisfactory. This provided an enormous window for counseling and reproductive health promotion measures. Interventional studies and strengthening of ART and family planning services must be customized to target the major social, cultural and knowledge barriers identified in this study to enhance the practice of DCM use.
Acid Deashing Kinetics and Alkali Activation of Carbon Rich Particles in Coal Gasification Fine Slag to Prepare Capacitor Carbon
Authors: Yang Nana , Xiong Shanxin , Zhang Shuai , Lv Fengyan , Zhang Yukun , Wang Xiaoqin , Chu Jia , Li Zhen , Xu Jianwei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Coal gasification fine slag (CGFS), a byproduct of coal and gasification agent interactions at high temperatures, presents significant challenges for the coal chemical industry. CGFS mainly comprises SiO2, Al2O3, CaO, Fe2O3 and carbon. Among them, the acid leaching of metal ions can produce the mesoporous structure in CGFS. The mesoporous structures not only provide channels for the embedding of potassium vapor and the overflow of CO2 and other gases during KOH activation, but also provide channels for the transport of electrolyte ions. Therefore, Studying the acid leaching process and elemental leaching of CGFS is highly significant. In this paper, the dissolution kinetics and mechanism of elements in CGFS during acid leaching were studied using carbon-rich particles (CRP) in CGFS as raw materials, and the conditions for acid leaching were optimized. Results from BET and chemical tests indicated that the mesoporous structure formation via acid leaching was a first-order kinetic reaction under the optimum conditions. Subsequently, the process parameters of alkali deashing and KOH activation were optimized. The resulting activated carbon, CRP-AC-90, exhibited a surface area of 1409.93 m2/g, high specific capacitance and excellent cycling stability, showcasing CGFS’s potential in supercapacitor applications, providing a novel method for effectively utilizing CGFS.
Mechanism of non-coding RNA regulation of DNMT3A and its relation to histones, regulatory proteins, and clinically relevant mutations
Authors: Sandoval Jonathan E. , Carullo Nancy V.N. , Salisbury Aaron J. , Day Jeremy J. , Reich Norbert O. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background De novo DNA methylation by DNMT3A is a fundamental epigenetic modification for transcriptional regulation. Histone tails and regulatory proteins regulate DNMT3A, and the crosstalk between these epigenetic mechanisms ensures appropriate DNA methylation patterning. Based on findings showing that FosecRNA inhibits DNMT3A activity in neurons, we sought to characterize the contribution of this regulatory RNA in the modulation of DNMT3A in the presence of regulatory proteins and histone tails.
Results We show that Fos ecRNA and mRNA strongly correlate in primary cortical neurons on a single cell level and provide evidence that Fos ecRNA modulation of DNMT3A at these actively transcribed sites occurs in a sequence-independent manner. Further characterization of the Fos ecRNA-DNMT3A interaction showed that Fos-1ecRNA binds the DNMT3A tetramer interface and clinically relevant DNMT3A substitutions that disrupt modulation by Fos-1 ecRNA are restored by the formation of heterotetramers with DNMT3L. Lastly, using DNMT3L and FosecRNA in the presence of synthetic histone H3 tails or reconstituted polynucleosomes, we found that regulatoryRNAs play dominant roles in the modulation of DNMT3A activity.
Conclusion Our results are consistent with a model for RNA regulation of DNMT3A that involves localized production of short RNAs binding to a nonspecific site on the protein, rather than formation of localized RNA/DNA structures. We propose that regulatory RNAs play a dominant role in the regulation of DNMT3A catalytic activity at sites with increased production of regulatoryRNAs.