bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Why Does Interpersonal Violence Persist?
Authors: Lenz Gabriel , Mikkelborg Anna , Larsen Martin Vinæs 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Why do high rates of interpersonal violence sometimes persist despite the presence of a strong state? We argue that this is because individuals who grow up in unsafe places learn to distrust criminal justice institutions, such as police, and to rely on themselves and their family for protection. Even if institutions improve, they persist in these self-defense habits. To examine the empirical viability of this argument, we study millions of internal white US migrants. We find that migrants from historically unsafe states carry much of their risk of violent death with them, including the risk of police violence. They do so even when compared to similar migrants living in the same region. In a large-scale national survey, we find that they distrust law enforcement and are more likely to rely on themselves for protection in dangerous situations. Our results have implications for which strategies governments could adopt to reduce violence.
MiRNA-449 family is epigenetically repressed and sensitizes to doxorubicin through ACSL4 downregulation in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Eroles Pilar , Torres-Ruiz Sandra , Garrido-Cano Iris , Lameirinhas Ana , Burgués Octavio , Hernando Cristina , Martínez María Teresa , Rojo Federico , Bermejo Begoña , Tapia Marta , Carbonell-Asins Juan Antonio , Peña Carlos Javier , Lluch Ana , Cejalvo Juan Miguel , Tormo Eduardo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Despite progress in the breast cancer treatment, a significant portion of patients still relapse as a consequence of drug resistance. The involvement of microRNAs in cancer progression and chemotherapy response is well established. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the dysregulation of the microRNA-449 family (specifically, microRNA-449a, microRNA-449b-5p, and microRNA-449c-5p) and its impact on resistance to the commonly used chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin in triple-negative breast cancer. We found that the microRNA-449 family is downregulated in triple-negative breast cancer and demonstrated its potential as a diagnostic biomarker. Besides, our findings indicate that the downregulation of the microRNA-449 family is mediated by the microRNAs-449/SIRT1-HDAC1 negative feedback loop. Moreover, it was found that the microRNA-449 family dysregulates the fatty acid metabolism by targeting ACSL4, which is a potential prognostic biomarker and mediated doxorubicin response through regulation of the drug extrusion pump ABCG2. Altogether, our results suggest that the microRNA-449 family might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer once it is implicated in doxorubicin response through ACSL4/ABCG2 axis regulation. Besides, our results also highlight the value of microRNAs-449 and ACSL4 as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in triple-negative breast cancer.
Hamster Model of Severe COVID-19 Demonstrates Differential Efficacy of first Licensed Western Vaccines in the Absence of Immunopathogenesis
Authors: Mühlebach Michael , Ebenig Aileen , Lange Mona , Serra Michelle Gellhorn , Kupke Alexandra , Plesker Roland , Maier Thorsten 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

To combat the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines have been developed, tested and approved in less than one year. Four vaccines using two technology platforms were authorized early in Europe and the US. Comirnaty and Spikevax are mRNA-based, whereas Jcovden and Vaxzevria utilize adenoviral vectors (AdV). We already described a hamster model of severe COVID-19, in which vaccine-associated immunopathogenesis can be induced by Alum-adjuvanted Spike protein. Such animals were vaccinated here with the early authorized vaccines, challenged, and examined for immunopathogenesis in comparison to Alum+S-vaccinated or naïve hamster after challenge. All vaccinated hamsters produced antibodies binding (bAb) to SARS-CoV-2 Spike, while neutralizing antibodies (nAb) were induced only by the authorized vaccines. Among those, uniform induction of nAbs by mRNA vaccines needed a second dose. Using AdV-based vaccines, nAbs were mostly abundant after just one vaccination, but boostability was low. Upon challenge, Alum+S immunized animals were not protected and developed VAERD. In contrast, all authorized vaccines protected from severe disease, but transient initial weight loss was observed. In accordance with lower nAb titers, a tendency for higher weight loss became evident with Vaxzevria. Histopathology revealed less tissue damage after immunization with the authorized vaccines, with two animals revealing unaffected, healthy lungs. No live virus was detectable in lung tissue in those vaccine groups, except for one animal with Vaxzevria. Our data reveal absence of induction of VAERD by the authorized vaccines in a susceptible hamster model, while the induced immune responses and observed degree of protection seem to match the clinical vaccine efficacy.
A Sovereign Debts and Gdp in Piigs Countries: A Panel Smooth Transition Approach
Authors: Djaballah Mustapha 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

It occurred at the end of 2008, and its effects quickly reached many countries in record time and exploded as a public debt in the European Union and the Eurozone. The countries most affected by this financial crisis were Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Greece and Spain which were named as PIIGS countries in Europe. The impact of public debt on economic growth in PIIGS countries is analyzed in this study. This paper focused on arriving at empirical evidence of the existence of a non-linear effect of external debt on GDP in PIIGS countries This study used panel data models using non-linear panel threshold regression (PSTR) approaches for a sample of European countries represented by PIIGS From 1990 to 2022. Several conclusions were drawn from this study. First, the use of a regime switching test based on the Hansen approach confirmed the existence of a non-linear relationship between external debt and GDP and the analysis showed that the threshold and its effect do not vary with the level of economic development. In the mentioned countries, in addition, the results showed a negative impact of external debt on the growth of these countries, mainly due to the size of the debt and the structural deficit in the balance of payments and the primary budget.
JEL Classification : C21 C33 C58 H63 E62
Neopestalotiopsis asiatica strain CP1 Causing Leaf Blight on Zedoary Turmeric in Guangxi, China
Authors: Li Shanshan , Long Meimei , Luo Yaqi , Cheng QiangYi , Huang LiGuo , Sun Xianchao , He Lin , Ma Guan Hua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Zedoary turmeric (Curcuma phaeocaulis), a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicines in Guangxi Province, holds immense significance. Regrettably, the emergence of a novel leaf wilt in October 2017 has cast a pall over its production, leading to detrimental impacts on both yield and quality.
Results
By meticulous single-conidial isolation, this new pathogen was successfully extracted from ten diseased leaves. Subsequent confirmation of pathogenicity was achieved via the meticulous execution of Koch's postulates. In pursuit of accurate identification, morphological data were harmonized with a concatenated sequence analysis of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS), translation elongation factor 1 (TEF), and β-tubulin (TUB) regions. This rigorous approach unveiled the pathogen as an Neopestalotiopsis asiatica, warranting the nomenclature Neopestalotiopsis asiatica strain CP.
Conclusions
This is the first description on Neopestalotiopsis asiatica as causal agent for leaf blight on zedoary turmeric. The ramifications of this pathogen's definitive identification and ongoing surveillance cannot be overstated, signifying a pivotal alert to zedoary turmeric cultivators in confronting this newfound peril.
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery in Post-War Mekele, Ethiopia: An Application of the Three Delay Model to Explore Barriers to Care
Authors: Candelo Estephania , Asgedom Brhanu Haile , Wallerius Kate , gebremariam Selamawit gebrezgabiher , Niermeyer Weston L. , Useche Mateo , Vallecillo Tissiana , Asfaw Elyas , Green Katerina , Athni Tejas S. , Wiedermann Joshua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background:
The three delays model, identifies three key stages to delays in care that can contribute to adverse outcomes: decision-making to seek care, accessing healthcare facilities, and receiving appropriate medical care. However, the application of this model in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) and in a human conflict environment has not been examined. This study aims to explore the impact of each delay type within the OHNS population in post-war Mekelle, Ethiopia. By investigating these delays, the study seeks to uncover strategies for reducing delays and improving outcomes in the management of OHNS pathology for this and similar environments.
Methods:
This study was conducted during a 3-week short term OHNS surgical trip in Mekele, Ethiopia, following a 2 year war. A total of 105 patients attending the OHNS clinic were identified and given verbal interviews and semi-structured questionnaires. The three delays model was applied to analyze the data collected, focusing on the following aspects: 1) decision to seek care, 2) reaching care, and 3) receiving care.
Results:
A total of 105 patients were included in the analysis, with 100% (105/105) experiencing type 1 delays (decision to seek care), 75% experiencing type 2 delays (75/105) and an additional 77% (77/105) facing type 3 delays (receiving appropriate care after reaching health care facility). More than half of the patients encountered delays in all three types. Various factors contributed to type 3 delays, including multiple delays at the time of admission, drug shortages, non-availability of skilled staff, and incompetence. Cost of transportation emerged as the primary factor contributing to type 2 delays.
Conclusion:
The findings provide valuable insights into the specific delays experienced by patients seeking OHNS services in a post-war setting and inform potential strategies for improving healthcare delivery in similar contexts.
Examining Labor in the Upright Positioning with a Low-Dose Epidural: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Phillipi Michael , Packer Claire , Chaiken Sarina R , Hersh Alyss R , Caughey Aaron B 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To estimate the outcomes, costs, and cost-effectiveness associated with birthing in the upright position compared to the recumbent position in patients with a low-dose epidural.
Methods: We designed a decision-analytic model using TreeAge Pro software to compare the outcomes and cost-effectiveness of employing the upright versus recumbent position during the first delivery with a low-dose epidural, incorporating the impact of mode of delivery on a subsequent delivery. We used a theoretical cohort of 756,000 patients, representing the approximate number of nulliparous individuals who have a term birth in the United States annually and are given an epidural. Probabilities and costs were derived from the literature.
Results: In our theoretical cohort of 756,000 nulliparous individuals with a low-dose epidural, the recumbent positioning strategy was associated with 18,652 fewer cesarean deliveries in the first pregnancy (66,210 vs 84,862), which would lead to 11,228 fewer cesarean deliveries in the second pregnancy (135,787 vs 147,015), 4 fewer uterine ruptures (15 vs 19) and 1 fewer hysterectomy (4 vs 5) in the second pregnancy, 2 fewer maternal deaths (23 vs 25) in the first delivery, and 1 fewer maternal death in the second delivery (26 vs 27). Laboring in the recumbent position saved $157 million ($15.526 billion vs $15.683 billion) and increased QALYs by 2,141 QALYs (19.846 million vs 19.844 million).
Conclusion: Our results show that in a theoretical cohort of 756,000 patients, laboring in the recumbent position may save $157 million annually and improve maternal outcomes.
Effects of neighbourhood characteristics on the distribution of vacant houses in satellite cities: a case study of Toda City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Liu Qiyuan , Sho Kojiro , Corcoran Jonathan , Ando Naomi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the under-explored relationship between vacant house distribution and neighbourhood characteristics in satellite cities, using Toda City in Saitama Prefecture as a case study. We analysed ten neighbourhood characteristics encompassing living convenience, housing supply, and policy support. Using various databases primarily derived from the 3D city model of PLATEAU, we proposed a two-step methodology integrating the global and local Moran’s I analysis to test the normality of the spatial distribution of vacant houses. We incorporated linear correlation, multiple regression, and multiscale geographically weighted regression to verify the effective factors of neighbourhood characteristics on vacant houses. Our findings reveal a significant positive correlation between the area ratio of supermarkets to vacant houses, while road adjacency conditions show a significant negative correlation with vacant houses. Our study addresses how these neighbourhood characteristics might be dominant considering the context of the satellite cities.
A new understanding of the mechanism controlling water inflow into mines based on the stratigraphic distribution beneath major aquifers through a case study of the Yijun Formation in the Binchang mining area, Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: XU Jinpeng , Liu Baojie , Chen Mingyue , Yao Hua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The Binchang mining area is located in the southern Ordos Basin. The water inflow in mines and working faces is considerable due to the Jurassic aquifers and thick Cretaceous aquifer above the coal seams. The water inflow into mines caused by the thick Cretaceous aquifer is considerable, and the mechanism controlling the mine water inflow is still unknown. This case study is based on the mine water inflowand the thickness of the Yijun Formation in the Binchang mining area and reveals a significant correlation between the mine water inflow and the overlying major aquifers. A qualitative analysis was performed to study the relationship between the sedimentary facies and the distribution of mine water inflow in the Tingnan Coal Mine. A random forest (RF) model was applied to identify the key factors affecting the water inflow at working faces. The analysis results showed that in addition to the aquifer characteristics, the water inflow at working faces is negatively correlated with the sedimentary thickness of the Yijun Formation, and the thickness has the greatest influence on the distribution of water inflow. Furthermore, the Yijun Formation is not only an important aquifuge but also determines the bottom morphology of the Luohe Formation, which is an important aquifer. The area with a thin Yijun Formation is also the catchment area at the bottom of the Luohe Formation. This case study first reveals that the underlying strata have an important influence on the sedimentary environment and water abundance of the upper aquifer. The relationships and findings in this case study can provide helpful references for the prevention and control of mine water in similar mining areas.
Stability Assessment of Housekeeping Genes for qRT-PCR in Yersinia enterocolitica Cultured at 22℃ and 37℃
Authors: Li Chuchu , Zhou Lu , Ma Xiaoxuan , Zhu Liguo , Li Jia , Meng Lingning , Han Mei , Wang Danwei , Shen Han , Liu Chang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background:
Yersinia enterocolitica, a species within the genus Yersinia, thrives optimally at 22–25°C but can also grow at mammalian core body temperature of 37°C. This dual temperature adaptability necessitates the establishment of both temperature conditions in research to examine the effects on various biological inquiries. In quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assays, the selection of appropriate housekeeping genes is vital for data accuracy. Nevertheless, the paucity of alternatives and information frequently leads to the default use of the 16s rRNA gene, despite potential limitations.
Methodology:
This investigation sourced 16 potential reference genes through a comprehensive review of the literature and transcriptome sequencing data analysis. We validated the expression stability of these genes via qRT-PCR across 12 Y. enterocolitica strains, representing the four prevalent serotypes O:3, O:5,27, O:8, and O:9, isolated from diarrheal patient stool samples. This approach aimed to minimize the impact of serotype heterogeneity. Post-acquisition of Cq values, gene stability was evaluated using four established algorithms—∆Cq, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper—and subsequently synthesized into a consolidated ranking through the Robust Rank Aggregation (RRA) method.
Conclusion:
Our study suggests that the genes glnS, nuoB, glmS, gyrB, dnaK, and thrS maintain consistent expression across varying culture temperatures, endorsing them as robust housekeeping gene candidates. We advise against the exclusive use of 16s rRNA for this purpose. Should tradition prevail in its utilization, it must be employed with discernment, preferably alongside one or two of the housekeeping genes identified in this study as internal controls.
Fungal community characteristics of the last remaining habitat of three paphiopedilum species in China
Authors: Tian Li , An Mingtai , Liu Feng , Zhang Yang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Paphiopedilum armeniacum, Paphiopedilum wenshanense and Paphiopedilum emersonii are critically endangered wild orchids. The population is threatened, and the number of natural distribution sites has plummeted. Ex situ conservation and artificial breeding are the keys to maintaining the population to ensure the success of ex situ conservation and field return in the future. The habitat characteristics and soil nutrient information of the last remaining wild distribution sites of the three species were studied. ITS high-throughput sequencing was used to reveal the composition and structure of the soil fungal community, analyze its diversity and functional characteristics, and reveal its relationship with soil nutrients.
Results: The three species preferred to grow on low-lying, ventilated and shaded negative terrain with good water drainage. There were significant differences in soil alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen and available phosphorus among the three species. There were 336 fungal species detected in the samples. On average, there were different dominant groups in the soil fungal communities of the three species. The functional groups of soil fungi in the habitats were dominated by saprophytic fungi and ectomycorrhizae, with significant differences in diversity and structure. The co-occurrence network of habitat soil fungi was mainly positive. Soil pH significantly affected soil fungal diversity in the habitats of the three paphiopedilum species. The study and analysis confirmed that the dominant groups of soil fungi were significantly correlated with soil nutrients.
Conclusion: The three species have similar habitat preferences, but there are significant differences in soil fungal composition, community structure and diversity. The functional group of fungi contains abundant saprophytic fungi, ectomycorrhizae, and a small amount of orchid mycorrhizae. The symbiotic relationships of the three species of soil fungi were harmonious, which was conducive to resistance to adverse environments. Soil environmental factors were significantly correlated with soil fungal communities, and pH significantly controlled fungal diversity. Our study on the habitat characteristics and soil fungal communities of the three wild paphiopedilum species laid a foundation for future ex situ conservation and field return work.
Development of a Vibration-Damping, Sound-Insulating, and Heat-Insulating Porous Sphere Foam System and its Application in Green Buildings
Authors: Hua Shi , Okello Moses Oyaro , Zhang Jian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

With the development of green buildings, people pay more attention to quality of indoor sound environment, air sound insulation performance of floors and exterior walls plays a key role in today's green buildings. The thermal performance of the enclosure structure of floor and exterior wall heat transfer resistance, is an important factor in reducing building carbon emissions in green buildings. Therefore, in order to effectively ensure the improvement of the air sound insulation performance of exterior walls and floors, the sound insulation performance of floor impact, and the thermal performance of exterior walls and floors, a sound insulation and thermal insulation carbon porous ball foaming system is designed and applied in practical engineering. The changes in sound insulation and thermal insulation performance of buildings under different working conditions are analyzed, and the feasibility research conclusions of this material system to change the sound insulation and energy savings of green buildings are summarized.
Mapping the extent of the literature and psychometric properties for the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) in community-dwelling older adults: A scoping review
Authors: D’Amore Cassandra , Lajambe Lexie , Bush Noah , Hiltz Sydney , Laforest Justin , Viel Isabella , Hao Qiukui , Beauchamp Marla 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Identifying valid and accessible tools for monitoring and improving physical activity levels is essential for promoting functional ability and healthy aging. The Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) is a commonly used and recommended self-report measure of physical activity in older adults. The objective of this scoping review was to map the nature and extent to which the PASE has been used in the literature on older adults, including the evidence for its psychometric properties.
Methods: Seven electronic databases (MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), AMED (Ovid), Emcare (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), Ageline (EBSCO)) were searched in January 2023. Studies were included if physical activity was part of the aim(s) and measured using the PASE, participants had a mean age of 60 years or older and lived in the community, and papers were published in English. Pairs of independent reviewers screened abstracts, full-texts, and extracted data. Where possible, weighted mean PASE scores were calculated for different subgroups based on age, sex, and clinical population.
Results: From 4,124 studies screened, 232 articles from 35 countries met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were cross-sectional (60.78%), completed in high-income countries (86.4%) and in North America (49.57%). A variety of clinical conditions were included (n=21), with the most common populations being osteoarthritis (n=13), Parkinson’s disease (n=11), and cognitive impairment (n=7). Psychometric properties of ten versions of the PASE were found. All versions demonstrated acceptable test-retest reliability. Evidence for construct validity showed moderate correlations with self-reported physical activity, fair to moderate with accelerometry derived activity and fair relationships with physical function and self-reported health. Pooled means were reported in graphs and forest plots for males, females, age groups, and several clinical populations.
Conclusion: The PASE was widely used in a variety of clinical populations and geographical locations. The PASE has been culturally adapted to several populations and evaluated for its reliability and convergent validity; however, further research is required to examine responsiveness and predictive validity. Researchers can use the weighted mean PASE scores presented in this study to help interpret PASE scores in similar populations.
OSF registration: osf.io/7bvhx