bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Using feral pigeon (Columba livia) to monitor anthropogenic debris in urban areas: a case study in Taiwan's capital city
Authors: Chen Wei-Ting , Yang Wen-Ta , Ko Chia-Ying , Liou Sofia Ya Hsuan , Hsu Chia-Hsuan , Ko Chun-Han , Hung Chung-Hang , Yuan Hsiao-Wei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The terrestrial environment is a significant source of anthropogenic debris emissions. While most studies on anthropogenic debris focus on the marine environment, our research delves into human activity's effect on anthropogenic debris ingestion by studying the carcasses of feral pigeons. From January to June 2022, we collected the gastrointestinal tracts (GI tracts) of 46 pigeon carcasses in Taipei, Taiwan's capital city. The results reveal that 224 anthropogenic debris are found, with the dominant form being fibers (71.9%), primarily black (29.9%). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) shows that the main component of anthropogenic debris is polyethylene (PE) (20.5%), followed by anthropogenic cellulose (19.2%) and various other plastics. This study finds that the number of anthropogenic debris and chemical composition in the GI tract significantly increases with human activity. This result proves that feral pigeons are valuable indicators for monitoring anthropogenic debris pollution in urban ecosystems. On the other hand, past research focused on analyzing microplastic, but we confirmed that pigeons' GI tract has a high proportion of anthropogenic cellulose. It is crucial that future studies consider the potential impacts of anthropogenic cellulose in terrestrial ecosystems, as this could have significant implications for ecosystem health.
Ursodeoxycholic acid prompts glycolytic dominance, reductive stress and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in ovarian cancer cells through NRF2 activation
Authors: Bai Peter , Sipos Adrienn , Kerekes Éva , Szeőcs Dóra , Szarvas Fanni , Schwarcz Szandra , Tóth Emese , Mikó Edit , Ujlaki Gyula 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Numerous secreted bacterial metabolites were identified with bioactivity in various neoplasias, including ovarian cancer. One such metabolite is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), a secondary bile acid. Hereby, we assessed the bioactivity of UDCA in cell models of ovarian cancer, by applying UDCA in concentrations corresponding to the serum reference concentrations of UDCA (300 nM). UDCA induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), increased the flux of glycolysis and reduced the naturally occurring oxidative stress in ovarian cancer cells. These changes were dependent on the activation of NRF2. The tumoral overexpression of UDCA-induced genes in humans correlated with worse survival. These results point out that bacterial metabolites may have opposite effects in different neoplasias and raise the possibility that UDCA-containing remedies on the long run may support cancer progression in ovarian cancer patients.
Prescribing of antiepileptic drugs for the treatment of pain
Authors: Xia Ting , Ilomaki Jenni , Picco Louisa , Nielsen Suzanne 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Antiseizure medications (ASMs), particularly gabapentinoids like pregabalin, are increasingly prescribed for pain management. Despite their growing use, evidence of their effectiveness for pain is mixed. This highlights the need for a clearer understanding of the prevalence and prescribing patterns of ASMs in pain management.
Aims
To investigate the initiation of ASMs in people with and without pain or epilepsy diagnoses and to explore the concurrent use of opioids.
Method
This cross-sectional study used deidentified primary care data from 542 general practices in Victoria, Australia. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze ASM prevalence, concurrent opioid use, and prescribing patterns by age and gender.
Results
We identified 171,619 primary care patients who initiated an ASM between January 1, 2018, and May 31, 2023, of whom 80.1% had pain without epilepsy. Pregabalin was the most commonly initiated ASM, particularly among older adults with pain diagnoses, while sodium valproate, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and carbamazepine were more commonly initiated for epilepsy. We also found high rates of opioid use preceding ASM initiation, particularly among patients with pain but not epilepsy.
Conclusion
Given the widespread off-label use of gabapentinoids and the potential for serious harm, further research is warranted to better understand their clinical and safety outcomes.
Electrical DNA Sensing using a Vertical 2D Heterojunction Diode Nanopore
Authors: Chen Sihan , Huang Siyuan , Son Jangyup , Han Edmund , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Huang Pinshane , King William , Zande Arend van der , Bashir Rashid 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

A long-unrealized vision in solid-state nanopore sensing is to develop membranes with out-of-plane architectures for local electrical sensing and control of DNA during translocation. Two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures enable out-of-plane electronics with layer-by-layer precision, making them ideal yet unexplored candidates for electrical sensing membranes. We demonstrate a nanopore architecture using an out-of-plane 2D heterojunction diode of p-type WSe₂ on n-type MoS₂. This diode exhibits rectified interlayer tunneling currents modulated by ionic potential, while the heterojunction interlayer potential reciprocally rectifies ionic transport through the nanopore. We achieve concurrent detection of DNA translocation using both ionic and diode currents and demonstrate a 2.3-fold electrostatic slowing of translocation speed. Encapsulation layers enable robust operation while maintaining the spatial resolution of atomically sharp heterojunctions for sensing. These findings establish a new paradigm for electrical DNA sensing and control using solid-state nanopores.
Geothermal Prospect Evaluation of Northern Benue Tough, northeastern Nigeria, From High Resolution Airborne Magnetic Data
Authors: Osinowo Olawale Olakunle , Abdulmumin Yusuf , Lamidi Tolulope Florence 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Geothermal prospect evaluation of the northern Benue Trough was carried out using high resolution airborne magnetic data, with a view to delineate zones of geothermal potential for possible geothermal development. The spectral analysis of 76 overlapping gridded blocks of filtered, transformed and enhanced residual magnetic data of the northern Benue Trough was carried out to generate geothermal gradient and heat flow across the area. Lineament mapping for delineation and extraction of regional linear structures known to aid permeability and ease conduction of the subsurface heat through conduits created for underground water by fractures were also undertaking from the horizontal component of tilt derivative. The analyses of the resultant spectral generated from the processed grids of overlapping blocks of airborne magnetic data indicate geothermal gradient that range in values from 5 oC/km to 42 oC/km and heat flow values range between 19 mW/m2 to 105 mW/m2 across the study area. The delineated linear structures range in length from 7 – 170 km and trend dominantly along NE-SW direction. Two prominent anomalous geothermal zones with geothermal gradients and heat flow magnitude of up to 20 oC/km to 42 oC/km and 50 mW/m2 to 105 mW/m2, respectively, were delineated in the southwestern and southeastern part of the study area. The high geothermal zones coincide with zones of high lineament density and occurrence of warm springs and volcanic plugs.
Mechanisms of parasympathetic cholinergic control of pancreatic cell function
Authors: Caicedo Alejandro , Levi Noah , Tamayo Alejandro , Sokolov Madina , Barro-Soria Rene 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

It is generally recognized that the parasympathetic nervous system uses the vagus nerve to control insulin and digestive enzyme secretion from the pancreas. However, the neurotransmission mechanisms between the vagus nerve and the final targets in the pancreas have not been fully elucidated. Here we show that intrapancreatic neurons are the exclusive pancreatic targets of vagal efferent fibers, respond to vagal stimulation, react to cholinergic input with nicotinic and muscarinic receptors, and activate target cells in the pancreas. Using chemogenetic stimulation of intrapancreatic neurons in living pancreatic slices, we demonstrate that activation of muscarinic receptor signaling and concomitant closure of Kv7 potassium channels in neurons is required to efficiently stimulate acinar and islet cells. This mechanistic insight into how intrapancreatic neurons transmit vagal input to regulate pancreas function contradicts canonical models of neurotransmission at parasympathetic postganglionic neurons and is critical to develop vagus nerve electroceutical devices to treat diabetes and pancreatitis.
Changes in Cervical Cancer Stage at Diagnosis in Zambia over 15 years
Authors: Wu Rongyi , Kalima Mulele , Msadabwe Susan , Mwaba Catherine , Ng’uni Fred , Watson Zulu , Kamfwa Paul , Chonga Simoonga , Lishimpi Kennedy , Elul Batya , Soliman Amr 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study explored the trend for change in the proportion of late-stage cervical cancer at one cancer center in Zambia from 2008–2022.
Method
This study included data of 5,755 cervical cancer patients seen at the Cancer Diseases Hospital (CDH) in Lusaka, Zambia between 2008 and 2022. The data included information about patient age, year of diagnosis, FIGO stage at diagnosis, HIV status, marital status, employment status, region of residence, and cervical screening history. We evaluated the stage at diagnosis over three time periods (2008–2012, 2013–2017, 2018–2022). Regression analysis identified the predictors of late-stage presentation.
Results
The proportion of late-stage presentation (Stages III and IV) decreased during 2013–2017 compared to the late stages during 2008–2012 (OR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.60–0.80). Subsequently, late-stage presentation increased during 2013–2017 compared to 2018–2022 (OR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.71, 0.91). Women who were divorced or widowed, unemployed, and lived in provinces distant from Lusaka were more likely to present with late-stage diagnoses, irrespective of the time period.
Conclusion
Although there was an initial decrease in late-stage diagnoses during 2008–2012 compared to 2013–2017, the trend reversed from 2018–2022. The increase in the proportion of late-stage presentations in 2018–2022 is probably due to lack of treatment availability and low visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid (VIA) screening sensitivity. Increasing the accessibility and availability of cervical cancer treatment and educating the vulnerable and risk-groups about the importance of screening may lead to early detection and downstaging in Zambia and other low-income countries.
Cellular prion protein and calcium ions trigger the neurotoxicity of α-synuclein aggregates
Authors: Bigi Alessandra , Napolitano Liliana , Fusco Giuliana , De Simone Alfonso , Chiti Fabrizio , Cascella Roberta , Cecchi Cristina 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

α-Synuclein (αS) aggregation and deposition are associated with the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other synucleinopathies. Here, we explored the role of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) in the cytotoxic cascade induced by αS prefibrillar oligomers and fibrils in human iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons, primary rat cortical neurons and human neuroblastoma cells. Using high resolution confocal microscopy and both siRNA-mediated PrPC silencing and blockade with an anti-PrPC antibody, we showed that PrPC mediates the rapid recruitment of αS aggregates at the plasma membrane, resulting in massive Ca2+ influx and membrane permeabilisation, with only a minor contribution to the release of toxic oligomers from aS fibrils and the downstream events leading to cell death. aS aggregates neurotoxicity was largely associated with the presence of extracellular Ca2+, that directly promoted the cell membrane recruitment and penetration of αS oligomers inside neurons, allowing them to cause neuronal death after prolonged times of exposure with the cells.
First Report of Moxifloxacin-Induced Type II Kounis Syndrome: A Case Study and Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Chen Qiqi , Xu Junyue , Zhang Ming , Yang Yanna , Dai Lili , Niu Hongxia 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background Kounis syndrome is a distinct form of acute coronary syndrome that is precipitated by allergic or hypersensitivity reactions. Although this syndrome is infrequently observed in clinical practice, it can result in severe cardiovascular events and represents a significant threat to patient life when it occurs. Consequently, enhancing the understanding, diagnosis, and management of this condition is essential. We present a case of Type II Kounis syndrome induced by intravenous moxifloxacin. Case Summary A 71-year-old female patient with no prior history of coronary artery disease developed hypotension and chest pain thirty minutes after the intravenous administration of moxifloxacin. Electrocardiography revealed T-wave inversion in leads I and aVL, accompanied by elevated levels of troponin I. Coronary angiography indicated 80% stenosis in the mid-segment of the left anterior descending artery (LAD), 99% stenosis at the ostium of the diagonal branch, and localized 60% stenosis in the proximal segment of the left circumflex artery (LCx). Subsequent echocardiography demonstrated segmental wall motion abnormalities, with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 52%. The diagnosis was moxifloxacin-induced Type II Kounis syndrome, presenting as acute non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Conclusion Kounis syndrome is a potentially life-threatening emergency that necessitates prompt intervention. Although primarily documented in case studies, the actual incidence of Kounis syndrome may be underreported. Clinicians should remain vigilant for the possibility of allergic reactions in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). For patients with known allergies, particularly those suspected of experiencing systemic allergic reactions, it is crucial to monitor for cardiac symptoms, perform electrocardiograms, conduct cardiac enzyme tests, and, if indicated, carry out coronary angiography. Early recognition and appropriate management of Kounis syndrome can significantly enhance patient prognosis.
“All-in-One” Hall Rectenna Surpassing 100 GHz Bandwidth
Authors: Hu Weida , Hu Zhen , Pan Xiaokai , Ahammed Raihan , Zhang Ziteng , Wang Fang , Yin Bo , Zhang Libo , Wei Yingdong , Fei Fucong , Wang Zhijun , Ye Lei , Wu Xing , Song Fengqi , Xu Yang , Lu Wei , Agarwal Amit , Wang Lin , Chen Xiaoshuang 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Current-carrying nonlinear electron transport in extrinsically doped PN diodes or junctions, leading to rectification and wave-mixing, forms the foundation of modern electronics and optoelectronics. However, these rectifiers and mixers face fundamental limitations in cut-off wavelength, frequency, sensitivity, and working temperature due to thermal-voltage thresholds and transit-time limits. Here, we demonstrate an “all-in-one” nonlinear Hall rectenna based on a type-II Weyl semimetal at room temperature, showing versatile electromagnetic conversion abilities arising from the band geometry and topology. It encompasses capabilities of a broadband frequency-comb exceeding the 27th order, subharmonic-mixing at extremely low power levels of -25 dBm, and tunable sideband bandwidth and intermediate frequency outputs surpassing 100 GHz and 27 GHz, respectively. Notably, the nonlinear Hall rectification shows superior performance with photonic frequencies extending over 0.8 THz. Our work provides unique pathways for developing ultra-compact, low-power Hall-rectenna by engineering the quantum geometry of Bloch wavefunctions, for next-generation terahertz communication, spectroscopy, and sensing applications.
Quantifying Employee Emotions in Longitudinal Work Environment Questionnaires
Authors: Craven Lucas H. , Kajonius Petri J. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

An individual differences' perspective posits that relatively stable emotions dictate an employee’s perception of the work environment. The present study, based on the Danish Psychosocial Questionnaire, set out to quantify to what extent individuals’ negative and positive affect account for the longitudinal relationships between baseline (Wave T1; N = 3,970) work environment (i.e., job demands or job relationships) and employee well-being (i.e., job satisfaction or perceived job stress) six months later (Wave T2; N = 2,375). Partial correlation analyses showed that very brief measures of employee emotions accounted for 75% of the variance between the initial work environment and later employee well-being. We argue and discuss the importance of considering individual differences in emotional traits in work environments, a dynamic often overlooked in research and practice in workplace interventions and improvements.
Research and field practice of integrated pressure relief technology of low-pressure abrasive jet slotting and fracturing in deep roadway
Authors: Wang Zehui , Guo Lei , Chen Zihan , Zhang Hongkai , Chen Chunyi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In order to control the large deformation of deep roadway, this paper analyzes the initiation conditions of abrasive jet slotting and fracturing, uses Fluent and UDEC to simulate and analyze the effect of low-pressure abrasive jet and the effect of slotting-fracturing integrated roof cutting and pressure relief, and conducts experiments in the field. The results show that the purpose of abrasive jet is to form prefabricated cracks and crack damage zones on the hole wall, providing an advantageous channel for hydraulic fracturing. In a certain range, with the increase of incident pressure, abrasive particle diameter and nozzle diameter, the effect of abrasive jet is improved, and the influence of incident pressure is the most significant. After the application of low-pressure abrasive jet slotting-fracturing integration technology in the field, the displacement of the roadway on the side of the goaf is significantly reduced, and the pressure relief effect of the roadway is good. The numerical simulation results also show that after the slotting fracturing pressure relief, the peak value and concentration coefficient of the bearing stress inside the retained coal pillar are reduced, and the damage zone around the roadway is relatively reduced.
WNT-induced association of Frizzled and LRP6 is not sufficient for the initiation of WNT/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Schulte Gunnar , Voss Jan , Koszegi Zsombor , Yan Yining , Shorter Emily , Grätz Lukas , Lanner Johanna , Calebiro Davide 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The Wingless/Int-1 (WNT) signaling network is essential to orchestrate central physiological processes such as embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. In the currently held tenet, WNT/β-catenin signaling is initiated by WNT-induced recruitment of Frizzleds (FZDs) and LRP5/6 followed by the formation of a multiprotein signalosome complex. Here, we use bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) to show that different WNT paralogs dynamically trigger FZD-LRP6 association. While WNT-induced receptor interaction was independent of C-terminal LRP6 phosphorylation, it was allosterically modulated by binding of the phosphoprotein Dishevelled (DVL) to FZD. WNT-16B emerged as a ligand of particular interest, as it efficiently promoted FZD-LRP6 association but, unlike WNT-3A, did not lead to WNT/β-catenin signaling. Transcriptomic analysis further revealed distinct transcriptional fingerprints of WNT-3A and WNT-16B stimulation in HEK293 cells. Additionally, single-molecule imaging demonstrated that, despite increasing FZD5 and LRP6 confinement, WNT-16B stimulation did not result in formation of large receptor clusters, in contrast to WNT-3A. Our results suggest that FZD-WNT-LRP5/6 complex formation alone is not sufficient for the initiation of WNT/β-catenin signaling. Instead, we propose a two-step model, where initial ligand-induced FZD-LRP6 association must be followed by LRP6 phosphorylation and receptor clustering into higher-order complexes for efficient activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling.
Effect of the Jeffries simulation framework on the core competence ofNew graduate pediatric surgery nurses: A prospective study
Authors: Luo Wenjing , Yang Runyu , Liang Yuanyuan , Feng Liwei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Newly graduated pediatric surgery nurses must be able to identify and handle potential risks to ensure patient safety. It is necessary to reinforce their understanding of their roles and responsibilities to achieve this goal. However, the limitations of traditional classroom-based teaching hinder the exploration of learners' potential.
Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Jeffries simulation framework in improving the core competence of new graduate nurses in pediatric surgery.
Method
A prospective methodology with a pretest/posttest design was used. The study involved 60 new graduate pediatric nurses who work in the pediatric surgery department of a level A tertiary hospital in Southwest China. Clinical scenario simulation cases, which were designed based on the Jeffries simulation framework, were used to improve clinical competence. Before and after the training, teachers assessed each nurse's core competency and clinical decision-making ability by the Chinese Registered Nurse Core Competency Scale (CIRN) and the Clinical Decision-Making in Nursing Scale (CDMNS).
Results
All 60 new graduate pediatric surgery nurses showed significant improvement in their clinical competence after undergoing simulation training (P < 0.001). Their core competence increased by 15 ± 0.32 points, while their clinical decision-making ability increased by 7.23 ± 4.17 points on average. Moreover, the dimensions of "clinical nursing", "professional development", "critical thinking/scientific" and "clear goals and values" also showed significant improvements.
Conclusion
Training new graduate pediatric nurses via the Jeffries simulation framework can enhance their clinical competence.
Trial registration
This study was registered on March 18, 2024, in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400082003) as part of our ongoing study.