bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
AAPS: Secure Cross-chain Scheme Based on Anti-attack Protocol Slot
Authors: Mao Hanyu , Nie Tiezheng , Yu Ge 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

With the increasing development of blockchain technology, numerous blockchain structures and tokens have been created. However, due to the independent nature of these chains, the concept of "cross-chain" was introduced to enable interoperability between them. Unfortunately, the development of cross-chain technology has resulted in numerous technical vulnerabilities, leading to significant losses of assets and disclosure of private data. Additionally, mainstream cross-chain schemes such as relay chain and security committee have become increasingly centralized, resulting in significant risks and the potential for collusion attacks. Therefore, in this paper, we propose the Anti-Attack Protocol Slot (AAPS) scheme to ensure the security of cross-chain interactions. This scheme is designed to resist multiple types of network attacks without requiring additional third-party centralized nodes or security boards. Through experiments, we demonstrate the reliability of AAPS. In summary, this paper proposes a novel approach for enhancing the security of cross-chain interactions, thereby addressing the technical vulnerabilities associated with current cross-chain schemes. The AAPS scheme provides a decentralized solution that can effectively protect against various network attacks.
Unveiling the Multi-dimensional Risks of Returning to Poverty: Insights from the Transformation of China's Poverty Alleviation Policies
Authors: Fan Cong , Chen Renxing , Mao Qingduo 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The eradication of absolute poverty in China by 2020 marked a significant milestone, yet ensuring sustained prosperity remains a critical challenge in the country’s rural revitalization agenda (2021–2050). This study indicates that individuals escaping poverty confront multifaceted risks of returning, shedding light on the unintended consequences of policy transformation in poverty alleviation. County G in Y Province, chosen for its representativeness and diversity of challenges, served as the study site. Inductive content analysis, involving 25 participants through in-depth interviews, was utilized for data analysis. A semi-structured interview guide, unanimously agreed upon by researchers, facilitated discussions on the risks of returning to poverty before and after the implementation of poverty alleviation policies. This study identifies and categorizes multi-dimensional risks linked to poverty-returning, encompassing general risks predating poverty alleviation initiatives and policy-induced risks from shifts in poverty alleviation measures.Findings deepen our understanding of these risks, highlighting general risks such as natural disasters, resource scarcity, and limited social support, as well as the policy-induced risks due to shifts in strategies that have led to decreased support for rural areas. The research underscores the inherent instability of policy transitions in anti-poverty efforts and calls for policymakers to address this vulnerability by crafting more sustainable poverty reduction strategies.
Efficient production of 6-Hydroxynicotinic Acid by newly isolated Pseudomonas poae
Authors: Li Hua , Tang Jiacheng , Li Yi , Cao Xunliang , Liu Tang , Xin Kaixiang , Xu Yinbiao , Zhou Pei , Sun Yang , liu yupeng 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Nicotinic acid dehydrogenase possesses the capability to convert nicotinic acid into 6-hydroxynicotinic acid, a compound of significant research value as a pharmaceutical intermediate. The extraction of nicotinic acid dehydrogenase is primarily performed by strains. However, the enzyme activity of the strains reported currently is relatively low, and their potential to catalyze the production of 6-hydroxynicotinic acid is insufficient to meet industrial requirements. Due to the revealing properties of 6-hydroxynicotinic acid, this study proposes a technique for calculating the luminescence intensity of colonies, which is based on a fluorescence spectrometer. The developed method establishes a reliable linear relationship (88.2%) between the luminescence intensity and enzyme activity. Consequently, it has been employed to screen strains that produce nicotinate dehydrogenase. This screening approach allows for the evaluation of about 500 enzyme-producing strains daily, presenting an efficient strategy for screening. Through this approach, a novel high enzyme activity strain producing nicotinic acid dehydrogenase, Pseudomonas poae have been obtained, which designated as HD530. After process optimization, it was utilized to produce 6-hydroxynicotinic acid, achieving a high yield of 155.45 g/L within 72 hours, meeting the requirements for industrial production. The effectiveness and potential of this technique lie in its application for strain screening and improvement.
Landslide Disaster Modeling and Analysis using CDEM in the Southern Slope of Fushun West Open Pit Mine
Authors: Xie Jiang , Wang Leiming , Yang Jingyu , Zhang Hui , Lu Yong , Hu Wen 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Landslides in open-pit mines have extremely high potential risks in the mining process due to their characteristics such as high speed, short distance, and the chain effect of other disasters. Taking the southern slope landslide of Fushun West Open Pit Mine (FWOPM) as an example, based on the dynamic process of the southern slope landslide, the deformation and failure mechanism and disaster chain disaster mode of the southern slope landslide are analyzed. The continuum discontinuum element method (CDEM) is constructed to reveal the evolution characteristics of the landslide, and a sudden change series method is proposed for landslide disaster analysis. The research results indicate that the entire process of the southern slope landslide can be summarized as follows: bedding slip stage, slight bending stage, strong bending stage, uplift stage and cut through stage. The geological hazard level of the southern slope landslide in FWOPM has a membership degree of 0.97, which belongs to a super large landslide and is basically consistent with the actual situation. This method is effective in the analysis of landslide disasters in southern slope landslide, and has good significance for slope landslide disasters prediction in FWOPM.
Enhanced Neural Recovery and Reduction of Secondary Damage in Spinal Cord Injury through Modulation of Oxidative Stress and Neural Response
Authors: Zhu Jiwen , Liu Zhenyu , Liu Qi , Xu Qinghua , Ding Chengbiao , Chen Zhu , Li Jun , Wu Zhengwei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) presents a critical medical challenge, marked by substantial neural damage and persistent functional deficits. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) for SCI, utilizing a tailored dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) device to conduct comprehensive in vivo and in vitro analyses. The findings show that CAP treatment significantly improves functional recovery after SCI, reduces neuronal apoptosis, lowers inflammation, and increases axonal regeneration. These findings illustrate the efficacy of CAP in fostering a conducive environment for recovery by modulating inflammatory responses, enhancing neuronal survival, and encouraging regenerative processes. The underlying mechanism involves CAP's reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, followed by the activation of antioxidant enzymes. These findings position CAP as a pioneering approach for spinal cord injury (SCI) treatment, presenting opportunities for improved neural recovery and establishing a new paradigm in SCI therapy.
Novel 2-Substituted Benzothiazole Derivatives: Synthesis, In-vitro and In- silico Evaluations as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Azzam Rasha A. , Seif Mona M. , El-Demellawy Maha A. , Elgemeie Galal H. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Cancer remains a global health concern, demanding the development of new therapeutic medicines. This research focuses on the synthesis, in vitro evaluation, and in silico analysis of new 2-substituted benzothiazole derivatives as possible anticancer drugs. Hybrid molecules comprising benzothiazole and pyridinone rings 10a-d and 14a-d were also synthesized. Several compounds were produced and characterized, using NMR, IR and elemental analysis, with promising anticancer activity against lung H1299, liver Hepg2 and breast MCF7 cancer cell lines. Structure-activity connection investigations identified crucial structural characteristics that influence potency, with particular benzylidine derivatives 7a-g demonstrating higher activity. In-silico ADME research revealed favorable drug-like features for chosen compounds, such as high gastrointestinal absorption and selective CYP inhibition. Toxicological projections indicated few side effects, confirming their potential as medication candidates. Docking studies revealed their binding mechanisms and interactions with protein tyrosine kinases PTK, identifying intriguing candidates for further study.
A Rapid Urine Sensor for Detection of Sports Anaemia in Ultra-Endurance Athletes
Authors: Griffiths Owen , Spivey Alan Christopher , Quinlan Gregory , Cass Anthony Edward George 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Sports anaemia is a condition associated with high levels of haemolysis after intensive exercise such as ultra-endurance rowing competitions. Studies have shown that large or continuous muscle contractions can increase the fragility of red blood cells (RBCs), which can lead to intracapillary mechanical haemolysis. Toxicity from haemolysis is caused by the release of cell free haemoglobin (cfHb), haem, and iron from the lysed RBCs. Early detection of sports anaemia can prevent toxicity by facilitating earlier intervention of preventative treatments. However, there are currently no rapid, low-cost, and easy-to-use sensors to detect sports anaemia.
Results
An electrochemical sensor was developed to detect cfHb in urine which is a good biomarker for haemolysis. The chronoamperometric response was characterised and calibrated with Hb spiked urine before evaluating with four ultra-endurance rowers (The Enginoars) during a 37-day cross-Atlantic rowing expedition—the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge. The limit-of-detection (LoD) of the sensor was determined as 2.2 µM and the 5 µM recovery was 110%. The intercept was − 0.28 ± 0.1 µA and the slope was − 0.18 ± 0.02 µA µM− 1. The mean cfHb concentration of the four rowers was 2.40 µM, 1.56 µM, 2.29 µM, and 3.69 µM. The max cfHb concentration of the four rowers was 11.94 µM, 3.77 µM, 16.73 µM, and 11.91 µM.
Conclusions
The study demonstrated the efficacy of using cfHb in urine as a biomarker for intracapillary haemolysis and sports anaemia. It also provided proof-of-principal for the sensor in ultra-endurance competitions. It showed that while there were several haemolysis spikes during the competition, cfHb levels returned to normal within 1 to 2 days.
Cluster formation in device-to-device (D2D) communications to ensure quality of service &amp; minimize cluster head power consumptions
Authors: Ezeh Ikechukwu Harrison , Ezenugu Isaac A. , Okorogu Victor N. , Ewunonu Tochi C. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The research proposed a clustering formation approach that ensures that the chosen cluster head (CH) in D2D communication consumes minimal energy and that the cluster members (CMs) are offered good quality of service. In addition, the study investigated various factors influencing power consumptions of User Equipment (UE) in Device to Device (D2D) Communication. Network and geographic data of the UE were collected within 200m diameter (100m radius) around the chosen base station (BS). A term Hardware Sensing Factor (a weighting factor) was formulated from the collected network data. The HSF and the distance between the UE and the base station were utilized as input data to Self Organizing Map (SOM), an unsupervised machine learning algorithm, to form clusters of the UE. A UE with highest value of HSF and minimal distance to the BS is chosen as the Cluster Head (CH) for each cluster. It was shown that the power consumption of the UE increases as the signal attenuation (which depends on distance) increases. In addition, for every transmission/reception between the Cluster Member (CM) and the BS through the CH, the CH consumes about 2.5% more than the CM. Also, in addition to the effects of signal attenuation, the power consumption of the CH is largely dependent on the number of CMs associated with the CH. Furthermore, it is more energy efficient for the CMs to communicate with the CH than communicate with the BS, especially for edge cell UE.
A novel porous amino-functionalized cellulose composite for highly efficient adsorption of anionic pollutant in water: behavior and mechanism
Authors: Sun Zhong , Deng Chao , Li Yanxin , Yin Yihan , Zhou Wenlong , Duan Xixin , Xu XIaohui , Yang Wei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

A large amount of domestic and industrial wastewater can pose a great threat to our environment. Thus, searching effective and eco-friendly ways for adsorbing and removing toxic substances (Cr6+, Mn7+, and methyl orange (MO)) in wastewater is urgent and highly desirable. An efficient, mesoporous, and amino-functionalized polydivinylbenzene (PDVB)-cellulose nanocrystal (CNC/PDVB-NH2) with high stability and super-hydrophobicity was developed by crosslinking in this study. The pseudo-second-order model and Langmuir model expressed the adsorption kinetics and isotherm well, indicating the adsorption of Cr6+ and Mn7+ ions on CNC/PDVB-NH2 was monolayer chemisorption. The maximum adsorption amount (qm) of Cr6+ and Mn7+ ions on CNC/PDVB-NH2 was 130.39 mg/g and 308.94 mg/g, respectively. For negatively charged dye methyl orange (MO) also maintain adsorption effect. These results indicated the CNC/PDVB-NH2 can be used as an efficient and reliable absorbent for wastewater treatment, which was worthy of promotion for large-scale application.
Premature aging effects on COVID-19 pathogenesis: new insights from mouse models
Authors: Haoyu Wu , Meiqin Liu , Jiaoyang Sun , Guangliang Hong , Haofeng Lin , Pan Chen , Xiongzhi Quan , Kaixin Wu , Mingli Hu , Xuejie Yang , Lämmermann Ingo , Grillari Johannes , Zhengli Shi , Jiekai Chen , Guangming Wu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Aging is identified as a significant risk factor for severe coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), often resulting in profound lung damage and mortality. Yet, the biological relationship between aging, aging-related comorbidities, and COVID-19 remains incompletely understood. This study aimed to elucidate the age-related COVID19 pathogenesis using a Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) mouse model with humanized ACE2 receptors. Pathological features were compared between young, aged, and HGPS hACE2 mice following SARS-CoV-2 challenge. We demonstrated that young mice display robust interferon response and antiviral activity, whereas this response is attenuated in aged mice. Viral infection in aged mice results in severe respiratory tract bleeding, likely contributing a higher mortality rate. In contrast, HGPS hACE2 mice exhibit milder disease manifestations characterized by minor immune cell infiltration and dysregulation of multiple metabolic processes. Comprehensive transcriptome analysis revealed both shared and unique gene expression dynamics among different mouse groups. Collectively, our studies evaluated the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on progeroid syndromes using a HGPS hACE2 mouse model, which holds promise as a useful tool for investigating COVID-19 pathogenesis in individuals with premature aging.
Exploring experiences of sexual behavior practices among adolescent girls and young women in higher learning institutions in Tanzania; A qualitative study
Authors: Mwalukunga Lusajo J. , Moshi Fabiola V. , Kibusi Stephen M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Sexual behaviors among young adults, particularly those aged 15–24, have an increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and unintended pregnancies. This vulnerability is heightened among students in Higher Learning Institutions due to factors like reduced parental oversight, transient lifestyles, and peak sexual activity years. Research indicates that, despite awareness, contextual influences like economic coercion and peer pressure hinder healthy behavior adoption. This population group faces challenges due to newfound autonomy, diverse social environments, and sexual activity.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive study explored the experiences of sexual behavior practices among adolescent girls and young women from two universities in Dodoma. Data were collected using in-depth interviews with 13 participants aged 19 to 24 years. Thematic analysis was done to identify themes and sub-themes.
Results
Nine sub-themes were identified, such as consensual first sexual experience, traumatic first sexual experience, consistent condom use, communication challenges regarding condom use, abortion, and reproductive health, casual sexual relationships and encounters, transactional sexual relationships, sex under the influence of alcohol, and sexual risky behavior in nightlife. Five themes, namely contrast sexual debut, condom use communication, sexual and reproductive health challenges, non-committal sexual practices, and inebriated promiscuity, were then derived.
Conclusion
The study’s findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive sexual education programs in higher learning institutions in lower and middle-income countries. It advocates for improved access to sexual and reproductive health services and peer support. It also highlights the need for reinforced policies against sexual coercion and harassment and sustained research on sexual behaviors among Adolescent Girls and Young Women.
Renalase Levels are Decreased in Maternal Blood and Placental Tissues in Pregnancies Associated with Preterm Preeclampsia
Authors: Soliman* Youstina , Eke* Chino , Guo Xiaojia , Wang Melinda , Silva Tatiana , Désir Gary V. , Konnikova Liza 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Preeclampsia (PEC) is a complication of pregnancy associated with hypertension and the risk of eclampsia. The pathophysiology of PEC is unknown and identifying factors associated with PEC during pregnancy is crucial for placental, fetal, and maternal health. Renalase (RNLS) is an anti-inflammatory secretory flavoprotein associated with hypertension. Recent data demonstrated a correlation between maternal serum RNLS and PEC, and work from our group identified RNLS expression in the placenta. However, it remains unknown whether RNLS levels in placenta are altered by preeclampsia. Additionally, it is unclear if there is a differential effect of preterm and term PEC on RNLS. We demonstrate that serum RNLS was reduced in preterm cases of PEC. Similarly, placental RNLS was diminished in the chorion of preterm cases of PEC. However, a reduction of RNLS in the decidua was observed with all cases of PEC, while the levels of RNLS within the placental villi were similar in all cases. Overall, we demonstrate that RNLS correlates with PEC both systemically in maternal serum and locally within the placenta, with variable effects on the different layers of the placenta and more pronounced in preterm cases.
Synergistic effect of TiO2 nanoparticles and poly (ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) on the morphology and crystallization behavior of polylactic acid
Authors: El-Taweel Safaa H. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The impact of adding 80% vinyl acetate (EVA 80) and 1.0% TiO2 nanoparticles on the morphology and crystallization behavior of poly(lactic acid) blends was investigated using DSC, SEM, and POM. Thermal analysis revealed the enhancement of crystallinity of PLA in the presence of TiO2 and higher EVA 80 content in the blend. The PLA and EVA 80 components showed compatibility as evidenced by the shift of the glass transition temperatures of the PLA phase in the blend to lower values compared to neat PLA. The lower temperature shift of the cold crystallization of the PLA and the formation of the small spherulites of the PLA in the blends indicated that the TiO2 acts as a nucleating agent for crystallization. The non-isothermal crystallization of the blends was evaluated using Avrami's modified model, the MO approach, and Friedman’s isoconversional method. The Avrami’s modified rate constant (K) values and the effective activation energy significantly increased with the incorporation of EVA 80 and TiO2 nanoparticles. Furthermore, the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed improved thermal stability of PLA by adding EVA 80 and TiO2.
Observational Pilot Using a Data to Care Intervention Strategy to Promote HCV Re-engagement and Cure for Persons with HIV/HCV Co-infection who are Out of Care
Authors: Wegener Maximilian , Gosselin Deborah , Brooks Ralph , Speers Suzanne , Villanueva Merceditas 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background:
With Direct Acting Antivirals for Hepatitis C virus (HCV), cure is possible in >95% including those with HIV/HCV co-infection. Achieving strategic targets for cure requires addressing barriers including suboptimal care engagement. We adapted Data to Care (D2C), a public health strategy designed to identify and link persons out of care (OOC) for HIV, for persons with HIV/HCV co-infection untreated for HCV.
Methods:
In partnership with Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), persons OOC for HIV (defined as no HIV surveillance laboratory tests from 10/1/2018-10/1/2019) were matched to a list of persons co-infected with HIV/HCV (through 12/31/2019). We used a three-phase follow-up approach (pre-work, case conferencing, and Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) follow-up) to track outreach outcomes and re-engagement/HCV cure success.
Results:
There were 90 HIV/HCV co-infected persons who were OOC for HIV. The pre-work and case conferencing phases determined that 33 (36.7%) had previous HCV cure or were in treatment. There were 41 eligible for DIS-follow-up of which 21 (51%) were successfully contacted and 7 (33%) successfully re-engaged (kept appointment with HCV provider). No new HCV treatment initiations were recorded.
Conclusions:
Using a D2C approach, we identified and conducted outreach to persons who were OOC for HIV to promote HCV treatment. This approach resulted in intensive data clean-up and outreach efforts which produced modest re-engagement and no HCV treatment initiations. Future studies should develop alternative and complementary interventions to promote effective re-engagement and HCV treatment.
Multiple myeloma incidence and mortality trends in the United States, 1999-2020
Authors: Zhu David T. , Park Andrew , Lai Alan , Zhang Lingxiao , Attar Hiba , Rebbeck Timothy R. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell disorder accounting for approximately 10% of hematologic malignancies. There is limited epidemiological evidence regarding the long-term trends and disparities in MM in the US. We conducted a multiple time point cross-sectional study using MM incidence rate data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and mortality data from the CDC Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) Underlying Cause of Death database between 1999 and 2020. During this period, MM incidence has steadily increased, while MM mortality has steadily decreased, with substantial racial and ethnic disparities. Non-Hispanic Black individuals exhibited the highest incidence rates, which consistently rose from 12.02 (95% CI: 10.54, 13.64) in 1999 to 14.20 (95% CI: 12.93, 15.55) per 100,000 population by 2020. Non-Hispanic American Indian/Native Alaskans and Asian/Pacific Islanders demonstrated the lowest incidence rates of 5.59 (95% CI: 2.69, 10.04) and 3.56 (95% CI: 2.94, 4.27) per 100,000 population in 1999 to 5.76 (95% CI: 3.49, 8.90) and 3.92 (95% CI: 3.46, 4.42) per 100,000 population, respectively, by 2020. Disparities by gender, age, tumor stage, US census region, and rurality were observed, underscoring the importance of targeted, equity-centered interventions and MM screening initiatives for at-risk populations.