bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing the effectiveness of genetic observatory networks in detecting and monitoring marine non-indigenous species.
Authors: Pagnier Justine , Daraghmeh Nauras , Obst Matthias 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of non-indigenous species (NIS) in marine ecosystems poses significant challenges for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management. Advances in molecular techniques enable early detection and long-term monitoring of such taxa, especially when coupled with spatio-temporally wide-scaled sampling by networks such as the European ARMS Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (ARMS-MBON). This initiative performs standardised sampling campaigns using autonomous reef monitoring structures (ARMS) along European coasts and adjacent regions, providing open-access DNA metabarcoding data sets. We tested the efficacy of genetic observatory networks to detect and monitor marine NIS by analysing all publicly available ARMS-MBON cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and 18S rRNA amplicon sequencing data as of February 2024 using a customised bioinformatic pipeline. Screening against the World Register of Introduced Marine Species (WRiMS) and applying manual curation, we identified 63 marine taxa considered non-indigenous at one or more locations. This included widespread taxa and potential new introductions, such as Eucheilota menoni in the Adriatic Sea. However, we found no significantly higher number of NIS in samples from locations particularly impacted by maritime traffic compared to other areas. Our results suggest that the genetic observatory network approach is effective for detecting and monitoring marine NIS, including mapping of potential range shifts, detection of NIS hot spots, and as an early warning system. We recommend key improvements including more spatially intense sampling across diverse environments, and enhancement of NIS reference lists and genetic databases to ensure accurate identification of both known and unknown NIS across Europe.
The Traveling Mailman: Topological Optimization Methods for User-Centric Redistricting
Authors: Vargas Nelson Colón 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study introduces a new districting approach using the US Postal Service network to measure community connectivity. We combine Topological Data Analysis with Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods to assess district boundaries' impact on community integrity. Using Iowa as a case study, we generate and refine districting plans using KMeans clustering and stochastic rebalancing. Our method produces plans with fewer cut edges and more compact shapes than the official Iowa plan under relaxed conditions. The low likelihood of finding plans as disruptive as the official one suggests potential inefficiencies in existing boundaries. Gaussian Mixture Model analysis reveals three distinct distributions in the districting landscape. This framework offers a more accurate reflection of community interactions for fairer political representation.
On the Comparative Hydrodynamic Analysis of Conventional and Innovative Closed-Loop Marine Propellers
Authors: Hassan Hussien M. , Elsakka Mohamed M. , Moustafa M. M. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study provides an in-depth comparative analysis of hydrodynamic performance between the Wageningen B3-45-070 and Loop marine propellers, utilizing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations with the ANSYS Fluent solver. The Wageningen B3-45-070 propeller is used as a benchmark due to validated experimental results, showing good agreement with prior data. The Closed-loop propeller, reverse-engineered, incorporates an innovative blade design for enhanced efficiency. Open-water tests focus on thrust, torque coefficients, and open-water efficiency for both propellers, with the Loop's numerical investigation using the same CFD settings as the Wageningen B3-45-070 propeller. Two distinct scenarios are used to carry out this investigation. In the first scenario, the rotational speed (n) stays constant, but the speed of advance (Va) changes. In contrast, in the second scenario, the speed of advance (Va) stays constant but the rotational speed (n) changes; three different speeds of advance are used. The results of the present investigation showed that, regardless of the operating condition examined, the closed-closed-loop propeller consistently outperforms the Wageningen B3-45-070 propeller, with efficiency improvements ranging from 0.27–12.31%. Overall, the Closed-loop propeller consistently shows positive performance metrics across diverse operation conditions for improving marine propulsion systems.
Piezometer Time-Lag and Pore Pressure Ratio for Identification of Dam Internal Erosion
Authors: Kunsuwan Bunpoat , Thepjunthra Wiphada , Mairaing Warakorn , Jinagoolwipat Montri , Chalermpornchai Thawatchai 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Earth dams on complex geology without proper foundation treatment often face the risk of seepage problems. Sufficient installation and interpretation of field instruments are essential for monitoring dam behavior. Three indicators are introduced for assessment of seepage behavior: time lag (TL), pore pressure ratio (PR), and trigger water level (HW). The normalized TL reflects the washing out and plugging of rock cracks, as well as the progression of internal erosion. The foundation of the studied dam consisted of foliated rocks that were highly fractured, with the axis of the foliations aligned almost in the upstream-downstream direction, with a possible low stress zone on the syncline axis. The existing crack easily opened in the concave section of the syncline when the reservoir had risen to a curtain elevation, resulting in increased permeability and a higher flow to the downstream area, known as “hydraulic fracturing” (HF). The piezometer TL clearly indicated a shorter response time as the operating period progressed. The study dam showed the possibility of HF in the foundation, as observed during 2003–2022. The progression of HF was also confirmed by the increase in PR levels toward downstream. This revealed that the ongoing progression of HF had occurred at sta.2 + 700, which agreed well with the location of the slip zone that had occurred in 1993. HW was activated by the reservoir water level response also decreasing with time from 2003 to 2022, confirming that water infiltration through the rock crack progressed with time. These three indicators could act as good warning indices for seepage problems. This compiled knowledge could be transformed to a flowchart to identify the possible risks of hydraulic fracturing in the dam. If the three indices all showed the same trend the potential for hydraulic fracturing and internal erosion would be very high.
Rapid inversion of source parameters for the 2022 Mengyuan Mw 6.6 earthquake with combined high-rate GNSS and strong motion data
Authors: Yang Chen , Su XiaoNing , Gao ZhiYu , Kou RuiXiong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

To investigate the reliability of high-rate GNSS in the rapid inversion of source parameters for the 2022 Menyuan Mw 6.6 earthquake, we collected high-rate GNSS and strong motion data within a 200 km radius of the epicenter. We performed high-precision calculations to obtain three-dimensional dynamic displacement waveforms for all stations and analyzed the reliability of coseismic deformation acquisition and source parameter inversion. The three-dimensional dynamic displacement waveforms show that the amplitude of displacement fluctuations at each station decreases with increasing distance from the epicenter. At the closest station to the epicenter, C007, the maximum amplitude in the east-west direction reached 15 cm, while the maximum amplitude in the north-south direction reached 10.8 cm. The inverted epicenter location using displacement waveforms is (101.263°E, 37.802°N), with an origin time of 17:45:25.9 (UTC) and a magnitude of Mw 6.65. These results are generally consistent with those obtained from seismological methods using seismic wave information. Based on the displacement waveforms 100 seconds before and after the earthquake, the horizontal coseismic deformation of this event can be quickly obtained. The results show opposite motion trends on the south and north sides of the seismogenic fault, with no significant vertical movement, indicating that the earthquake is predominantly characterized by left-lateral strike slip motion. The results indicate that using near-field high-rate GNSS and strong motion data can rapidly and effectively invert strong earthquake source parameters and coseismic deformation results. This can provide valuable reference for post-earthquake emergency response and rapid disaster assessment.
The impact of social partners: investigating mixed-strain housing effects on aging in mice
Authors: Lee Chih-Lin , Lin Yu-Chiao , Kuo Tsung-Han 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Aging is a multifaceted process characterized by the gradual decline of physiological functions and can be modulated by various internal and external factors. While social interactions have been shown to affect behaviors and physiology in different species, the impact of social partners on aging-related phenotypes and lifespan in mice remains understudied. To address this question, we investigated various aging-related traits and lifespan in two mouse strains, C57BL/6J and BALB/c, under two different housing conditions: mixed-strain and same-strain housing. Analyses using a Generalized linear model revealed significant differences between the two strains in several phenotypes, including metabolic, anxiety-like, and electrocardiographic traits. However, surprisingly, housing conditions did not significantly affect most of the examined parameters, but only 2 out of 19 traits, body weight change in a metabolic cage and running wheel activity. Lifespans were also similar between mixed- and same-strain housing in both C57BL/6J and BALB/c mice. Together, our study suggested a minimal influence of co-housing with social partners from different genetic backgrounds on aging-related phenotypes. This result demonstrates the feasibility of mixed housing for mouse husbandry and, more importantly, provides valuable insights for future research on the social influences on the aging process in mice.
Dental biofilm serves as an ecological reservoir of acid-producer pathogens in head and neck cancer patients with radiotherapy-related caries
Authors: Bruno Julia S. , Heidrich Vitor , Restini Felipe C.F. , Alves Tatiana M.M.T. , Miranda-Silva Wanessa , Knebel Franciele H. , Cóser Elisangela M. , Inoue Lilian T. , Asprino Paula F. , Camargo Anamaria A. , Fregnani Eduardo R. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Radiotherapy-related caries (RRC) is an aggressive and debilitating oral toxicity that affects about half of the patients who undergo radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC). However, the aetiology of RRC is not fully established, and there are no clinically validated methods for preventing it. To gain a better understanding of the risk factors and the microbiome’s role in causing RRC, we compared clinicopathological characteristics, oncological treatment regimens and toxicities, oral health condition, and oral microbiome at three different oral sites of RT-treated HNC patients with (RRC+) and without RRC (RRC-). We observed no significant differences between these groups in the clinicopathological characteristics and treatment regimens. However, RRC + patients were older and had poorer oral health conditions at the start of the RT treatment, with a lower number of teeth and a higher proportion of rehabilitated teeth compared to RCC- patients. In general, RRC + patients had lower microbiome diversity and the dental biofilm of RRC + patients displayed striking alterations in microbiome composition compared to RRC- patients, including enrichment of acidogenic species (such as Propionibacterium acidifaciens and Lactobacillus fermentum) and altered metabolic potential, with a higher abundance of genes from caries-related species (such as Streptococcus mutants and S. parasanguinis) linked to energy-related pathways associated with the synthesis of amino acids and sugars. We also compared RRC tissue with carious tissue from healthy subjects with conventional caries (CC). RRC tissue showed lower bacterial diversity, a higher prevalence of Lactobacillus dominance (relative abundance ≥ 40%), and different co-occurrence networks compared to CC. We provide oral microbiome insights to better understand RRC aetiology, which point to the potential of microbial-targeted therapies to prevent and treat RRC.
Coverage of and factors associated with the regular use of Fortified Blended Flour (Supplementary Food) among children aged 6--23 months in the Remote Mountains of Karnali Province, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Sona , Khanal Vishnu , Choulagai Bishnu Prasad 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Childhood malnutrition is a major global public health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In Nepal, Fortified Blended Flour (FBF) is distributed through the Mother and Child Health and Nutrition Program, targeting the most food-insecure districts. Evaluating coverage, utilization, and barriers is crucial. This study investigated these aspects and factors influencing the regular use of FBF among children aged 6–23 months in Karnali Province.
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 mothers of children aged 6–23 months in Khadachakra Municipality, Kalikot district. The probability proportionate to size method selected participants from each ward. Face-to-face interviews were conducted via a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Coverage and utilization of FBF and reasons for irregular use are presented as frequency distributions. Chi-square tests, binary logistic regression, and multiple logistic regression examined associations. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) demonstrated the association between independent variables and regular use of FBF.
Results
All respondents were aware of the FBF distribution program (message coverage 100%), and 96.9% reported ever receiving FBF (contact coverage). Among those reporting contact coverage (N = 410), 48% utilized FBF regularly. Key reasons for regular utilization were perceived benefits for child growth (37.6%), free distribution (27.7%), and health worker recommendations (23.9%). Main reasons for irregular utilization included intrahousehold sharing (24.3%), stock shortages (14.2%), and lack of communication with distributors (13.7%). Factors associated with regular utilization included intrahousehold sharing (AOR: 4.22, 95% CI: 2.16–8.24), accepted taste of FBF (AOR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.24–4.79), mothers as decision-makers (AOR: 2.67, 95% CI: 1.17–6.09), pre-information about distribution (AOR: 4.08, 95% CI: 2.13–7.81), product adequacy (AOR: 5.12, 95% CI: 2.36–11.13), and waiting time (AOR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–0.99). A walking distance of less than 30 minutes (AOR: 4.18; 95% CI: 1.74, 10.02) or 30–59 minutes (AOR: 4.33; 95% CI: 1.73, 10.8) to the distribution center increased the likelihood of regular FBF use compared to distances over an hour.
Conclusion
While message and contact coverage were high, fewer than half of the participants utilized FBF regularly. Logistical and programmatic issues hinder regular utilization. Addressing supply chain challenges, improving distribution logistics, and raising awareness about FBF benefits can enhance program effectiveness. Future research should explore strategies to overcome these barriers and optimize nutritional outcomes in similar settings.
Advancing UAV Multi-Object Tracking: Integrating YOLOv8, Nano Instance Segmentation, and Dueling Double Deep Q-Network
Authors: Kiruthiga R , B Nithya , S Martin Prabhu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have become indispensable for navigating complex terrains, accessing remote or hazardous locations, and capturing high-resolution imagery. This paper presents an innovative approach to object detection specifically tailored for computer vision applications in UAVs. Traditional deep learning models such as RCNN, Fast RCNN, and YOLO often face challenges in detecting occluded, blurred, or clustered objects and struggle with simultaneously identifying and tracking multiple objects. To overcome these challenges, we propose a framework that integrates YOLOv8x, Nano Instance Segmentation (NIS), and Dueling Double Deep Q Network (DDDQN). YOLOv8x exhibits outstanding performance, achieving an Average Precision (AP) of 53.9% on the demanding MSCOCO dataset, outperforming previous versions. The DDDQN algorithm significantly enhances tracking capabilities by effectively estimating state values and state-dependent action advantages independently. The combination of YOLOv8x and DDDQN facilitates proficient management of obstacles, varying object sizes, and unpredictable movements. We simulated the proposed framework using the UAVDT and VisDrone datasets and compared its performance against approximately nine contemporary frameworks from recent literature. The results demonstrate that our framework significantly improves 1 object tracking in densely populated environments, offering a robust solution for real-world applications requiring precise and resilient object detection.
Contemporary cohort study in adult patients with infective endocarditis
Authors: Carvalho Mariana Giorgi Barroso , Almeida Thatyane Veloso , Feijoo Nicolas , Garrido Rafael Quaresma , Barbosa Giovanna Ianini , Golebiovski Wilma Félix , Castro Gustavo Campos Monteiro , Zappa Bruno , Weksler Clara , Correia Marcelo Goulart , Lamas Cristiane da Cruz 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe disease with a high mortality rate. Our aim was to describe a case series of adult patients with definite IE treated at a reference centre for cardiac surgery in Brazil, highlighting their specific characteristics.Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospectively implemented endocarditis database was conducted, including adult patients with definite IE according to the modified Duke criteria from January 2006 to June 2023. The analysis used the International Collaboration on Endocarditis case report form. Statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi®, version 1.2.2.Results There were 502 episodes of IE; the mean patient age ± SD was 48.4 ± 17.2 years. Community-acquired IE occurred in 64.7% of the patients, previous heart surgery was performed in 40.6%, and 39.0% of the patients had previous congestive heart failure (CHF). The main predisposing factors were rheumatic valve disease (RVD, 30.7%), valve prostheses (31.5%), and congenital heart disease (13.9%). Transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiograms were performed in 85% and 78% of the patients, respectively. Left-sided IE was predominant. Fever occurred in 90.6% of patients, new murmurs in 50.7%, and embolism in 45%. Blood cultures were negative in 33.1% of the patients. The most common pathogens were oral streptococci (15.6%), Staphylococcus aureus (10.0%), and enterococci (12.8%). The main complications were CHF (58%), acute renal failure (32.8%), and splenic embolization (35.2%). Surgery was performed in 83.6% of the patients, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 25%.Conclusions In this centre, left-sided IE predominated, with negative blood cultures. Oral streptococci were the most frequently encountered pathogens and RVD was the main predisposing factor. Surgery was performed frequently, and the mortality rate was higher than that in developed countries but lower than that in developing countries.
A glance at Quality-of-Life Post-Epilepsy Surgery: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Jolly Ivin Thomas , Ramteke Harshawardhan Dhanraj , Bhatia Sakshi , Juneja Manish , Mrinmai Komuroju Pooja 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background:
One of the most important outcomes of the epilepsy management is seizure freedom and improved quality of life (QoL). This meta-analysis and systemic review aim to compute the changes in QoL in the adults having drug resistant epilepsy further undergoing surgery. Thus, this also helps in exploring the various factors affecting the QoL with the changes in QoL.
Methods:
We analyzed the data using the various clinical trial medical databases and PubMed. Most of the studies had the pre- and post-operative seizure outcomes and the mean changes in pre- and post-operative QoL scores were analyzed. The literature search showed a total of 1336 studies were available after the initial search out of which 1259 were excluded. Once the abstract screening was done 77 studies were selected, going through the full text, 43 remained. We applied the language filter and also age range of the patients (19-44 years), yielded in 31 studies. Results:
Four studies were included (n = 4 / 31, 12.9%) in the QOLIE-10 metanalysis. Overall preoperative QOLIE-10 score was 25.49 (19.38 – 31.60 with 95% CI) and overall postoperative QOLIE-10 score was 19.56 (12.95 – 26.16 with 95% CI). Eleven studies were included (n=11/31, 35.4%) in the QOLIE-31 metanalysis. Overall preoperative QOLIE-31 score was 43.89 (31.32 – 56.46 with 95% CI) and overall postoperative QOLIE-31 was 59.31 (45.09 – 73.54 with 95% CI). The change in QOLIE-31 was 12.28 (3.09 – 21.48 with 95% CI). Seven studies were included (n = 7/31, 22.5%) in the QOLIE-89 meta-analysis. Overall preoperative QOLIE-89 score was 49.26 (39.77 – 58.74 with 95% CI) and overall postoperative QOLIE-89 score was 58.87 (51.15 – 66.60 with 95% CI). Post operative change in QOLIE-89 was 11.04 (-0.20 – 22.27 with 95% CI). Individual studies show that better preoperative quality of life is linked to not having mood disorders before surgery, better cognitive function pre-surgery, fewer prior attempts at antiseizure medications, and higher levels of conscientiousness and openness. Additionally, being employed before and after surgery and not taking antidepressants post-surgery are associated with improved outcomes.
Conclusion:
This study indicates that epilepsy surgery can significantly enhance quality of life, with specific clinicodemographic factors influencing these improvements. However, the findings are limited by considerable variability between studies and a high risk of bias.
A year above 1.5°C signals the onset of a 20-year period exceeding the Paris Agreement limit
Authors: Bevacqua Emanuele , Schleussner Carl-Friedrich , Zscheischler Jakob 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A single year exceeding a global mean temperature of 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels might be imminent. This raises questions about the implications for the Paris Agreement temperature goal. We show that, while the first year above 1.5 °C does not imply that the long-term warming level is reached, it is highly probable that it signals the onset of a 20-year period with an average warming of 1.5 °C.