bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of Mo contents on optimizing the microstructure and tribological properties of Cr-Mo-N films
Authors: Kong Fanlin , Luan Jing , Ju Hongbo 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The Cr-Mo-N films of different Mo contents are developed by the RF (Radio Frequency) magnetron sputtering. The XRD (X-ray Diffraction), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope), EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy), nano-indenter and tribo-tester will be used to analyze the composition, phase structure, mechanical and tribological properties of films. The results reveal that the Cr-Mo-N film adopts a face-centered cubic structure, primarily oriented along the (111) plane. When the Mo content falls below 17.72%, increasing the Mo concentration leads to a slight increase in film microhardness, accompanied by a significant decrease in the average friction coefficient. On the contrary, exceeding a Mo content of 22.76% triggers structural changes within the film. These alterations are reinforced by solid solution and fine grain strengthening, further compounded by the presence of Mo2N. Consequently, film microhardness undergoes a considerable increase, while the average friction coefficient remains relatively stable irrespective of Mo content. This underscores the consistent low friction coefficient characteristic exhibited by Mo2N films.
The role of beta bursts in top-down inhibition of somatosensory cortex: an OPM-MEG study
Authors: Rivero Gonzalo Reina , Tanner Zoe , Rier Lukas , Hill Ryan M. , Shah Vishal , Rea Molly , Doyle Cody , Osborne James , Bobela David , Morris Peter G. , Mullinger Karen J. , Boto Elena , Holmes Niall , Brookes Matthew J. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Human brain electrophysiology is characterised by rhythmic activity – neural oscillations – which play an important role in coordinating brain function. In the somatosensory cortices, the dominant oscillations occur in the beta (13-30 Hz) band and are thought to mediate top-down inhibition of primary cortices. The non-invasive measurement of such oscillations has traditionally been made possible using either electroencephalography (EEG) or magnetoencephalography (MEG), yet both modalities have significant limitations. Here, we use a new MEG technology – based on optically pumped magnetometers (OPM-MEG) – to measure attentional modulation of beta oscillations in the somatosensory cortex. Using piezo-electric crystal stimulators, we present ‘braille-like’ patterns to the left and right index fingers; participants are asked to respond to pre-specified target patterns presented to an attended hand, whilst ignoring patterns presented to their non-attended hand. In agreement with previous findings, we measure significantly decreased beta amplitude during attended stimuli relative to baseline, and to non-attended stimuli, with the most pronounced effect during an attentional cue. Moreover, we extend our analyses to demonstrate that attention has a similar effect on the occurrence of pan-spectral bursts (which are shown to underlie the beta rhythm). Specifically, we measure significant changes in the probability of burst occurrence in primary somatosensory cortices in a time window related to attentional shifts. In sum, our results provide evidence that attentional modulation of beta oscillations is driven by changes in pan-spectral burst occurrence and add weight to the argument that OPM-MEG is the technique of choice for non-invasive electrophysiological measurements.
Down-regulation of TAK1 inhibits migration and invasion of p-NENs by regulating JNK signaling pathway through interaction with PDZD2
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Qiu Jianwei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasmas (p-NENs) is a rare type of disease among digestive malignancy tumors, but its mechanics are still unclear. It has been found that TAK1 plays a crucial role in the progression of many tumors. We discovered TAK1 was highly expressed in BON-1 compared to two other pancreatic cell lines（CFPAC-1and hTERT-HPNE). Inhibition of TAK1 could significantly suppress the migration and invasion of p-NENs cell line (BON-1). Furthermore, the down-regulation of TAK1 suppressed the process of epithelial mesenchymal transition[1],which increased the epithelial marker E-cadherin and decreased the mesenchymal marker vimentin and N-cadherin. Through mass spectrometry analysis, we found that TAK1 is potentially blinded to PDZ domain containing 2(PDZD2) and negatively regulates its expression. In addition, down-regulation of TAK1 resulted in decrease of p-JNK.JNK activator (Anisomycin) significantly enhanced invasion and migration in comparison with TAK1 knockdown groups without activator. And silence of PDZD2 could rescue the changes in cancer cells’ phenotype and JNK expression caused by TAK1. All in all, the results of this study indicate that TAK1 regulates the JNK pathway in controlling p-NENs migration and invasion through its interaction with PDZD2, providing us with a new target for the treatment of p-NENs.
Low-Dose Oral Misoprostol Versus Oxytocin Infusion For Induction Of Labor In Pregnant Women With Term Premature Rupture Of Membranes in China: A retrospective Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Yang Yike , Yu Zhiheng , Shi Huifeng , Wang Yan , Zhao Yangyu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

While the use of oral misoprostol for labor induction in premature rupture of membrane (PROM) women is not prevalent in China, the main aim of this study was to validate the efficacy and safety of low-dose oral misoprostol solution compared to oxytocin infusion for labor induction in term PROM women with unfavorite cervix conditions. A retrospective nested case-control study was conducted at a tertiary general hospital in China from March 2020 to February 2024, comparing the efficacy of oxytocin infusion and oral misoprostol for labor induction in term PROM women with a Bishop score < 6. A total of 449 mothers were included, with 282 assigned to the oxytocin group and 167 assigned to the misoprostol group. The duration of total labor time was shorter in the misoprostol group. There was a markedly higher incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and severe PPH observed in oxytocin group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that misoprostol administration demonstrated a negative relationship (aOR: 0.46; 95%CI: 0.21–0.95) with failed labor induction outcomes and occurrence of PPH (aOR: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.27–0.85). Oral low-dose misoprostol has demonstrated both safe and superior efficacy to oxytocin infusion for labor induction and may potentially reduce the incidence of failed induction and associated with a decreased risk of PPH were observed in the misoprostol group in term PROM pregnant women with unfavorable cervical condition.
Evaluation of the Effect of the Pandemic Period on Henoch-Schönlein Purpura
Authors: Çoban Sümeyra Başaran , Ulu Kadir , Sözeri Betül 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Immunoglobulin A vasculitis is a vasculitis that occurs after a triggering infection and progresses with different clinical manifestations. Recent studies have shown an association between coronavirus disease and IgA vasculitis in children. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the effect of the pandemic period on the course of IgA vasculitis.
Methods
Clinical data of 224 patients who were newly diagnosed with IgA vasculitis were retrospectively reviewed and grouped into prepandemic, pandemic and postpandemic periods. The clinical data of the patients in these periods were compared.
Results
In the prepandemic period, pandemic period and postpandemic period the number of patients were 75 [33.5%], 21 [9.4%] and 128 [57.1%], respectively. There was no significant difference between the periods in terms of isolated skin/systemic, gastrointestinal system and renal involvement [p>0.05]. Patients admitted with the diagnosis of IgA vasculitis in the prepandemic, pandemic and postpandemic periods comprised 0.5%, 0.2% and 0.3% of all patients, respectively.
Conclusion
While the number of patients admitted during the pandemic period decreased by 50%, it increased by 50% in the postpandemic period. It was thought that the reducing spread of viral infections with isolation measures may contribute to the decrease in IgA vasculitis cases.
Thermal Impact of Hard and Soft Surfaces in Landscape Design of a University Campus: A Case Study
Authors: Tajer Elnaz , Sat Beyza 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Campus areas as a microcosm of urban areas; given the context of global warming, are becoming more vulnerable to rising temperatures. This study focuses on the outdoor environment and microclimate effects on the Ozyegin campus by considering the surface and plantation types. Urban green spaces offer a potential solution by lowering air temperatures through shading and evapotranspiration. The selection of appropriate plant types is crucial for effective temperature reduction, as leaves act as barriers to solar radiation. Measurements were conducted in November–December 2023 at 15 designated points in the Ozyegin campus. The measurements are especially conducted in the autumn and diffuse daylight to prevent the effect of direct solar radiation and the high difference in the shading effect of trees. The research seeks to address fundamental questions about how different surfaces, both hard and soft, influence outdoor thermal conditions, explore university campuses, and explore strategies for improvement. Employing comprehensive field surveys and data analysis, including statistical techniques like ANOVA, and Bonferroni post-hoc test, the study reveals temperatures under broad-leaved trees are 1.5 degrees cooler than on hard surfaces. With a practical objective, the research aims to measure outdoor thermal conditions at Ozyegin Campus and make recommendations for creating comfortable campus outdoor environments.
The prevalence of hepatic steatosis and MAFLD based on the liver ultrasound elastography in Chinese breast cancer women
Authors: Xu Zhou , Tian Shen , Li Ren-hua , Tang Juan , Liang Xin-yu , Xiao Jun , Wu Juan , Chen Yu-ling , Song Jing-yu , She Rui-ling , Ma Chen-yu , Feng Jun-han , Wu Kai-nan , Kong Ling-quan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women and also shares similar risk factors with fatty liver, especially metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Chemotherapy can lead to hepatic impairment and hepatic steatosis (HS), which seriously affects the treatment and quality of life of breast cancer women (BCW). Therefore, this study aims to investigate the incidences of HS and MAFLD based on liver ultrasound elastography (USE), liver function abnormalities, and metabolic syndrome in Chinese BCW in the initially diagnosed, during chemotherapy and follow-up stages.
Methods
A total of 767 BCW treated at Chongqing Breast Cancer Centre were finally enrolled and classified into initially diagnosed group, chemotherapy group, and the follow-up group. The related conditions of HS and MAFLD as well as liver function abnormalities and metabolic syndrome were assessed by liver conventional ultrasound (US) or USE in all groups.
Results
Compare to US-diagnosed HS (21.7%, 36.7%, 38%), higher incidence of HS (60.4%, 78.6%, 68.0%) were detected by USE in the initially diagnosed, chemotherapy and follow-up groups. 50–70% of US-negative patients were detected by USE as having a fatty liver, which was predominantly mild to moderate. Based on the USE diagnosis, there was a higher prevalence of MAFLD in the initially diagnosed group (49.8%), which increased to 68.1% in the chemotherapy group and decreased in the follow-up group (59.1%), with a predominantly decrease of mild-to-moderate cases. BMI and age subgroups showed a higher incidence of MAFLD in patients with BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2 or age ≥ 60 years old. In addition, BCW combined with MAFLD had a higher incidence of liver function abnormalities and metabolic syndrome.
Conclusion
Patients treated with chemotherapy for breast cancer have a higher incidence of HS and MAFLD, especially overweight or obese and menopausal patients. Breast cancer patients with combined MAFLD have higher rates of liver function abnormalities and metabolic syndrome. USE has a higher sensitivity than US and can detect more patients with mild to moderate fatty liver disease, enabling early intervention.
Autoimmune encephalitis with coexisting antibodies to GABABR, GAD65, SOX1 and Ma2
Authors: Li pankui , Yang Tingting , Gu Yixin , Zhou Jing , Wang zhenhai 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) refers to a heterogeneous group of CNS autoimmune disorders characterized by the production of different anti-neuronal surface synaptic protein-associated antibodies. In recent years, autoimmune encephalitis that is positive for multiple anti-neuronal antibodies has been gradually recognized in the clinic, with complex and varied clinical manifestations, especially in combination with malignant tumours, which have worse treatment and prognosis. Current clinical studies on the coexistence of multiple anti-neuronal antibodies in patients with AE are mainly disseminated case reports. Patients with AE in which four anti-neuronal antibodies coexist are even rarer.
Case presentation:
We report a patient who initially presented with small cell lung cancer and hyponatraemia, followed by seizures and progressive deterioration of consciousness, cognition and psychiatric abnormalities. A cell-based assay (CBA) method was used to detect serum and cerebrospinal fluid anti-neuronal surface or prominent protein antibodies. Patients with AE diagnosed with co-existing anti-GABABR, GAD65, SOX1 and Ma2 antibodies and receiving gammaglobulin, steroid shock therapy, and chemotherapy for small cell lung cancer.
Conclusions
The coexistence or overlap of multiple anti-neuronal surface antibodies with anti-neuronal intracellular antibodies is rare and increases the likelihood of underlying malignancy. Elucidating the impact of individualised immunotherapy and coexisting antibodies on the clinical presentation of patients has the potential to improve long-term prognosis.
Efficacy of adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors in melanoma patients ≥75 years – results of a real-world cohort including 456 patients
Authors: Gawaz Andrea , Wolff Isabel , Flatz Lukas , Forschner Andrea 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) applied in patients with melanoma in an adjuvant setting have proved safety and efficacy in several studies, but data on elderly patients aged 75 years or more is scarce. Aim of this study was to investigate efficacy and safety of adjuvant ICI in patients aged ≥ 75 years compared to patients < 75 years in a real-world setting.
Methods We retrospectively analyzed clinical data, including occurrence of immune-related adverse events (irAE) and outcome of 456 patients that had been treated with adjuvant ICI between January 1, 2018 and December 20, 2022. We then compared patients aged ≥ 75 years (n=117) to patients < 75 years (n=339) in terms of safety and progression-free survival (PFS).
Results and conclusion ICI was well tolerated in both groups, with no significant difference observed in the overall occurrence of irAEs. However, within the elderly subgroup there was a significant higher proportion of skin or nephrological toxicity and colitis/diarrhea compared to the other group. In terms of efficacy there was a significant shorter progression-free survival in patients aged ≥ 75 years. Adjuvant ICI in patients ≥ 75 years was less effective and furthermore associated with an increased risk for skin, renal or bowel toxicity. Therefore, in elderly patients, adjuvant ICI should be used with precaution.
Uncertainties in catastrophe modelling: Focus on seismic hazard uncertainty based on ESHM updates
Authors: Gkimprixis Athanasios 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Catastrophe models serve as valuable tools for evaluating and managing the impacts of natural disasters, yet their accuracy is susceptible to inherent uncertainties. This article explores the implications of uncertainty within catastrophe models, with a specific focus on the hazard component. The introductory section, presents an analytical framework for developing the three main components of an earthquake catastrophe model - hazard, vulnerability, and exposure – and discussed the associated uncertainties. The subsequent section underscores the crucial role of sufficient data for accurate risk assessment, highlighting the sensitivity of the estimates to hazard modeling assumptions and structural system properties. It discusses the role of extrapolation techniques in refining hazard curves, together with limitations and challenges. The final section presents a comparative analysis of two versions of the European Seismic Hazard Model (ESHM), ESHM13 vs ESM20, examining the effects of hazard variation on risk outcomes across different locations. Lastly, the paper suggests a simplified method to model future updates of the hazard model, assessing the potential implications on RM estimates for different structural systems.
Technology Inflows, Adoption, and Efficiency: The Dichotomy of Exports and Employment in India and China
Authors: Bansal Renu , Maiti Dibyendu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This paper analyses the impact of capital inflow with superior technology on the exports and employment of a typical developing economy. A simple duopoly competition between asymmetric domestic firms (one with domestic technology and another with foreign technology) reveals that the efficiency gain of a domestic firm depends on absorption capability (depending on R$\&$D, skills acquisition, etc.) and the efficiency gain can raise the level of exports but not necessarily the employment. In the empirical exercise, we first estimate technical efficiency using the endogeneity-corrected stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) technique applied to cross-section firm-level World Bank Enterprise Survey data for India and China. The results show that firms undertaking R$\&$D absorb foreign technology better, enhancing their technical efficiencies. Finally, the results of the 3SLS model applied to analyse the impact of technical efficiency on exports and employment show that technical efficiency significantly and positively determines exports and employment in China. However, exports are only in India due to lower absorbability.
Characterization of Macroscopic and Microscopic Lesions of the Respiratory System of Guinea Pig (Cavia Porcellus) in Colombian Production Systems
Authors: Chaves-velasquez Carlos Alberto , Paz-Calvache Tatiana , Botero-Espinosa Lucia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The guinea pig (Cavia porcellus), a hystricomorphic mammal raised by the inhabitants of southern Colombia, Ecuador, Perú and Bolivia, is a food of high nutritional, cultural and spiritual value in the Andean countries. Considering that there is no information on the characterization of respiratory pathologies in the guinea pig destined for human consumption in Colombia, the objective of the study was to characterize lesions and pneumonic patterns in the respiratory system. A cross-sectional observational study was carried out in guinea pigs (n = 270) of three weeks of age from 71 guinea pig farms distributed in 14 villages of the municipality of Pasto. In the animals included in the study, lesions in the nasal cavity and respiratory tract were evidenced in a percentage of less than 5%. In the pulmonary functional parenchyma, lesions were observed in 73.3% of the animals. Lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia was the most common finding − 36.6% (n = 99), followed by lymphohistiocytic interstitial pneumonia − 21.4% (n = 58) and multifocal granulomatous pneumonia − 3.7% (n = 10). Animals with concurrence of two morphological patterns of lesion in the same tissue were identified. No bronchointerstitial pneumonic patterns were found. It is concluded that respiratory alterations have a high occurrence (more than 70%) in the guinea pig population in the municipality of Pasto, Colombia. It is evident that most of the pneumonic patterns have a systemic entrance, which highlights the need to carry out new studies to have a more detailed understanding of the etiologies causing pneumonia in guinea pigs.
Transcriptome analysis reveals candidate genes for different root types of alfalfa in response to drought stress
Authors: wang kun , Nan Li-li , Xia Jing , Yao Yu-heng , Cheng Jiao , Chen Jing-ru 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
We aimed to gain insight into the response mechanism of alfalfa to drought stress by recognizing and analyzing drought-responsive genes in the roots of different root types of alfalfa. The rhizomatous-rooted M. sativa ‘Qingshui’ (or QS), tap-rooted M. sativa ‘Longdong’ (or LD), and creeping-rooted M. varia ‘Gongnong No. 4’ (or GN) were used to simulate drought stress with PEG-6000 and analyze the transcriptome information and physiological characteristics of the root system.
Results
It was found that aridity caused a significant increase in the content of osmotic stress substances and antioxidant enzyme activity. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in QS was lower than that in LD and GN under stress conditions, indicating a stronger accumulation capacity of osmotic regulatory substances. Based on sequencing results, 14,475, 9,336, and 9,243 upregulated DEGs from QS, LD, and GN were annotated into 26, 29, and 28 transcription factor families, respectively. QS showed more DEGs than LD and GN. KEGG enrichment analysis identified that DEGs were significantly enriched in metabolic pathways such as amino acid biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, plant hormone signaling transduction, and MAPK pathways. This suggests a strong correlation between these pathways and drought stress. Simultaneously, it was discovered that genes associated with ABA hormone signaling (MS. gene93372, MS. gene072046, and MS. gene012975) are crucial for adapting to drought stress.
Conclusions
These genes, such as serine/threonine protein kinases and abscisic acid receptors, play a crucial role in plant hormone signaling and MAPK pathways. They could serve as potential candidate genes for drought resistance research in alfalfa, providing a molecular foundation for studying drought resistance.