bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microbiological diagnosis of pleural infections: a comparative evaluation of a novel syndromic real-time PCR panel
Authors: Kommedal Øyvind , Eagan Tomas Mikal , Fløtten Øystein , Leegaard Truls Michael , Siljan William , Fardal Hilde , Bø Bjørnar , Grøvan Fredrik , Larssen Kjersti Wik , Kildahl-Andersen Arne , Hjetland Reidar , Tilseth Rune , Hareide Sølvi Kristine Øyen , Tellevik Marit , Dyrhovden Ruben 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Current microbial diagnostics for pleural infections are insufficient. Studies using 16S targeted next-generation sequencing report that only 10%–16% of bacteria present are cultured and that 50%–78% of pleural fluids containing relevant microbial DNA remain culture negative. As a rapid diagnostic alternative suitable for clinical laboratories, we wanted to explore a PCR-based approach. Based on the identification of key pathogens, we developed a syndromic PCR panel for community-acquired pleural infections (CAPIs). This was a pragmatic PCR panel, meaning that it was not designed for detecting all possibly involved bacterial species but for confirming the diagnosis of CAPI, and for detecting bacteria that might influence choice of antimicrobial treatment. We evaluated the PCR panel on 109 confirmed CAPIs previously characterized using culture and 16S targeted next-generation sequencing. The PCR secured the diagnosis of CAPI in 107/109 (98.2%) and detected all present pathogens in 69/109 (63.3%). Culture secured the diagnosis in 54/109 (49.5%) and detected all pathogens in 31/109 (28.4%). Corresponding results for 16S targeted next-generation sequencing were 109/109 (100%) and 98/109 (89.9%). For bacterial species included in the PCR panel, PCR had a sensitivity of 99.5% (184/185), culture of 21.6% (40/185), and 16S targeted next-generation sequencing of 92.4% (171/185). None of the bacterial species present not covered by the PCR panel were judged to impact antimicrobial therapy. A syndromic PCR panel represents a rapid and sensitive alternative to current diagnostic approaches for the microbiological diagnosis of CAPI.

IMPORTANCE
Pleural empyema is a severe infection with high mortality and increasing incidence. Long hospital admissions and long courses of antimicrobial treatment drive healthcare and ecological costs. Current methods for microbiological diagnostics of pleural infections are inadequate. Recent studies using 16S targeted next-generation sequencing as a reference standard find culture to recover only 10%–16% of bacteria present and that 50%–78% of samples containing relevant bacterial DNA remain culture negative. To confirm the diagnosis of pleural infection and define optimal antimicrobial therapy while limiting unnecessary use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, there is a need for rapid and sensitive diagnostic approaches. PCR is a rapid method well suited for clinical laboratories. In this paper we show that a novel syndromic PCR panel can secure the diagnosis of pleural infection and detect all bacteria relevant for choice of antimicrobial treatment with a high sensitivity.
Ophiolite of the Buck Creek/Chunky Gal Mountain area, North Carolina, USA
Authors: Maliner-Colvin* Steven 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT
The ophiolite of the Buck Creek and Chunky Gal Mountain areas (North Carolina, USA) consist of very high-temperature mafic and ultramafic units. These mafic and ultramafic rocks were once part of the oceanic lithosphere before being subducted and then thrust into continental rock by the Taconic orogeny, which took place during the Paleozoic era. The thrusting of these mafic and ultramafic rocks into nearby metasedimentary rock was controlled by the Chunky Gal thrust fault. Studies on this ophiolite were mainly petrological, geochemical, and structural in nature. The main rocks of interest within this area are dunite, metatroctolite, and amphibolite. The dunite mostly consists of olivine and minor chromite spinels. Hydrous altered dunite may also consist of antigorite, chlorite, talc, and anthophyllite. This dunite is associated with minor scattered lenses of metatroctolite. The metatroctolite is dominated by plagioclase and olivine, which have symplectites and/or coronas of prograde minerals such as pyroxene, spinel, and sapphirine. Some of this metatroctolite was altered via hydration into chlorite schist and edenite-margarite schist, some of which is corundum-bearing. The dunite and metatroctolite are separated from the surrounding metasedimentary units by the surrounding Chunky Gal Amphibolite. This amphibolite, whose protolith is basaltic/gabbroic, is dominated by hornblende and plagioclase.
Conditions of Recrystallization of Ores of the Ozernoe Polymetallic Deposit (Western Transbaikalia, Russia)
Authors: Damdinova L. B. , Damdinov B. B. , Vikentyev I. V. , Reutsky V. N. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The Ozernoe lead–zinc deposit is the largest in Russia in terms of zinc reserves. It has been established that primary layered–banded, massive and brecciated sulfide ores were subject to intensive post-ore deformation and recrystallization, which accompanied dynamic and contact metamorphism. The transformations are expressed in the increase in the size of mineral aggregates and formation of carbonate–quartz–sulfide veins and veinlets with different ratios of constituent minerals. Ore minerals in veins and veinlets are represented by sphalerite, galena, and pyrite in different proportions; chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite, and marcasite occur in smaller quantities; and Ag sulfides and sulfosols are rare. The vein minerals are quartz, siderite, and manganese siderite (oligonite); Ba-bearing muscovite (ellacherite) and chlorite are also present. It was established that recrystallization of ores occurred at elevated PT-parameters—up to 535°C and up to 2 kbar—in the presence of relatively highly concentrated fluid phase (salinity up to 21.5 wt % eq. NaCl). Ore transformations are mainly caused by processes of dynamometamorphism. There is still uncertainty both with the age of ore mineralization of the Ozernoe deposit and with the development time of metamorphic processes. This does not allow linking these processes with the stages of geodynamic evolution in the region.
Feasibility of application-based psychomotor vigilance testing to assess fatigue in doctors working night shifts and correlation with smartwatch assessed shift intensity
Authors: Weetman Stefan , Roche Matthew , Leckie Todd , Samuels Theophilus , Hodgson Luke 
Published: April 2024

ObjectivesTo assess: (1) the feasibility of novel data collection methods (wearable technology and an application-based psychomotor vigilance test (PVT)), (2) the impact of night shift working on fatigue, both objective and perceived, for doctors working night shifts in acute hospital specialties and (3) the effects of shift intensity and naps obtained on participant fatigue.MethodsWe adopted an innovative, multimodal approach to data collection allowing assessment of objective and perceived measures of fatigue, in addition to markers of shift intensity. This comprised 5 min PVT for objective quantification of fatigue (via the validated, smartphone-based NASA PVT+ application), wearable electronic devices (Fitbit Versa2) for assessment of shift intensity (step counts and active minutes) and questionnaires to elicit perceptions of fatigue and shift intensity.ResultsData was collected from 25 participants for a total of 145 night shifts. Objective fatigue (assessed by PVT performance) was significantly increased post night shift, with a PVT mean reaction time 257 ms pre shift versus 283 ms post shift (p<0.0001). However, differences in PVT pre and post shift were not affected by night shift intensity, nor breaks or naps taken on shift. Differences in psychomotor performance between doctors working in different specialties were also observed.ConclusionsThe data collection methods used were found to be feasible with good participant engagement. Findings support existing evidence that night shift working in healthcare workers is associated with fatigue, with psychomotor impairment observed post shift. Lower shift intensity and napping did not appear to mitigate this effect.
Rapid estimates of leaf litter chemistry using reflectance spectroscopy
Authors: Kothari Shan , Hobbie Sarah E. , Cavender-Bares Jeannine 
Published: April 2024

Measuring the chemical traits of leaf litter is important for understanding plants’ influence on nutrient cycles, including through nutrient resorption and litter decomposition, but conventional leaf trait measurements are often destructive and labor-intensive. Here, we develop and evaluate the performance of partial least-squares regression models that use reflectance spectra of intact or ground leaves to estimate leaf litter traits, including carbon and nitrogen concentration, carbon fractions, and leaf mass per area (LMA). Our analyses included more than 300 samples of senesced foliage from 11 species of temperate trees, including both needleleaf and broadleaf species. Across all samples, we could predict each trait with moderate-to-high accuracy from both intact-leaf litter spectra (validation R2 = 0.543–0.941; %root mean squared error (RMSE) = 7.49–18.5) and ground-leaf litter spectra (validation R2 = 0.491–0.946; %RMSE = 7.00–19.5). Notably, intact-leaf spectra yielded better predictions of LMA. Our results support the feasibility of building models to estimate multiple chemical traits from leaf litter of a range of species. In particular, intact-leaf spectral models allow non-destructive trait estimation in a matter of seconds, which could enable researchers to measure the same leaves over time in studies of nutrient resorption.
Multiple herbicide-resistant kochia (Bassia scoparia) control in glufosinate-resistant canola
Authors: Torbiak Alysha T. , Blackshaw Robert E. , Brandt Randall N. , Hamman Bill , Geddes Charles M. 
Published: April 2024

Multiple herbicide-resistant kochia ( Bassia scoparia (L.) A.J. Scott) has grown in prevalence in the canola ( Brassica napus L.) production region of North America. Glufosinate-resistant canola facilitates kochia management since glufosinate-resistant kochia is not known to occur. Field experiments were conducted from 2013 to 2015 in five environments near Lethbridge and Coalhurst, Alberta, to identify herbicide strategies targeting acetolactate synthase inhibitor-resistant kochia with and without glyphosate resistance in glufosinate-resistant canola. Sequential glufosinate treatments (500 g ai ha−1) postemergence (POST) caused excellent (≥90%) kochia control and biomass reduction across environments. Preplant (PP) carfentrazone + sulfentrazone (9 + 105 g ai ha−1) alone or followed by (fb) POST glufosinate (9 + 27 fb 500 or 9 + 105 fb 500 g ai ha−1) resulted in excellent kochia control in all environments tested. PP carfentrazone + sulfentrazone (9 + 53 g ai ha−1) alone, and a single POST treatment with glufosinate (500 or 590 g ai ha−1) alone or preceded by fall-applied ethalfluralin (1100 fb 500 g ai ha−1) with or without PP carfentrazone (1100 fb 9 fb 500 g ai ha−1) caused ≥80% kochia control and biomass reduction in all environments tested. However, treatments containing PP carfentrazone + sulfentrazone caused unacceptable canola injury or yield loss in at least one environment. In conclusion, single or sequential treatments of glufosinate POST managed multiple herbicide-resistant kochia effectively in canola. Layering fall-applied/PP ethalfluralin and/or PP carfentrazone with glufosinate POST may help alleviate resistance selection pressure placed on glufosinate in canola.
Quantum cosmology in teleparallel gravity with a boundary term
Authors: Amiri H. , Atazadeh K. , Hadi H. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWe quantize a homogeneous and isotropic universe for two models of modified teleparallel gravity: one wherein an arbitrary function of the boundary term, namely B, is present in the action, and in the other model, a scalar field that is non-minimally coupled to both the torsion and boundary term. In this regard, we study exact solutions of both the classical and quantum frameworks by utilizing the corresponding Wheeler–DeWitt (WDW) equations of the models. To correspond to the comprehensive classical and quantum levels, in the second model, we propose an appropriate initial condition for the wave packets and observe that they closely adhere to the classical trajectories and reach their peak. We quantify this correspondence using the de Broglie–Bohm interpretation of quantum mechanics. According to this proposal, the classical and Bohmian trajectories coincide when the quantum potential vanishes along the Bohmian paths. Furthermore, we apply the de-parameterization technique to our model in the realm of the problem of time in quantum cosmological models based on the WDW equation, utilizing the global internal time denoted as $$\chi $$
χ
, which represents a scalar field.
Exploring Novel Therapeutic Avenues for Chemotherapy-Related Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Dietrich Jorg , Parsons Michael W. , Santarnecchi Emiliano 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Many patients with cancer are at risk of developing cognitive symptoms that often become evident during or after cancer-directed therapy and may have difficulties with attention, concentration, multitasking, executive function, and memory. Despite recent advances in identifying potential molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cancer and chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment, there is generally a lack of effective treatment strategies, and the development of novel therapeutic interventions represents a major unmet medical need in clinical practice. A recent study by Kim and colleagues suggests that multisensory 40-Hz gamma entrainment using sensory stimuli with combined visual and auditory stimuli is associated with powerful neuroprotective effects in mouse models of cisplatin- or methotrexate-induced “chemobrain.” Although the study has some limitations and successful interventions in animal models have often failed to translate into clinical practice, this noninvasive treatment modality has shown promise in preserving brain structure and function and could be tested in patients with cancer who are at risk of cognitive decline.
Contribution of VEGF-B-Induced Endocardial Endothelial Cell Lineage in Physiological Versus Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Sultan Ibrahim , Ramste Markus , Peletier Pim , Hemanthakumar Karthik Amudhala , Ramanujam Deepak , Tirronen Annakaisa , von Wright Ylva , Antila Salli , Saharinen Pipsa , Eklund Lauri , Mervaala Eero , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo , Engelhardt Stefan , Kivelä Riikka , Alitalo Kari 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:
Preclinical studies have shown the therapeutic potential of VEGF-B (vascular endothelial growth factor B) in revascularization of the ischemic myocardium, but the associated cardiac hypertrophy and adverse side effects remain a concern. To understand the importance of endothelial proliferation and migration for the beneficial versus adverse effects of VEGF-B in the heart, we explored the cardiac effects of autocrine versus paracrine VEGF-B expression in transgenic and gene-transduced mice.

METHODS:
We used single-cell RNA sequencing to compare cardiac endothelial gene expression in VEGF-B transgenic mouse models. Lineage tracing was used to identify the origin of a VEGF-B-induced novel endothelial cell population and adeno-associated virus–mediated gene delivery to compare the effects of VEGF-B isoforms. Cardiac function was investigated using echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, and micro-computed tomography.

RESULTS:
Unlike in physiological cardiac hypertrophy driven by a cardiomyocyte-specific VEGF-B transgene (myosin heavy chain alpha-VEGF-B), autocrine VEGF-B expression in cardiac endothelium (aP2 [adipocyte protein 2]-VEGF-B) was associated with septal defects and failure to increase perfused subendocardial capillaries postnatally. Paracrine VEGF-B led to robust proliferation and myocardial migration of a novel cardiac endothelial cell lineage (VEGF-B-induced endothelial cells) of endocardial origin, whereas autocrine VEGF-B increased proliferation of VEGF-B-induced endothelial cells but failed to promote their migration and efficient contribution to myocardial capillaries. The surviving aP2-VEGF-B offspring showed an altered ratio of secreted VEGF-B isoforms and developed massive pathological cardiac hypertrophy with a distinct cardiac vessel pattern. In the normal heart, we found a small VEGF-B-induced endothelial cell population that was only minimally expanded during myocardial infarction but not during physiological cardiac hypertrophy associated with mouse pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS:
Paracrine and autocrine secretions of VEGF-B induce expansion of a specific endocardium-derived endothelial cell population with distinct angiogenic markers. However, autocrine VEGF-B signaling fails to promote VEGF-B-induced endothelial cell migration and contribution to myocardial capillaries, predisposing to septal defects and inducing a mismatch between angiogenesis and myocardial growth, which results in pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
Rupture of a Previously Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysm 6 Years After Treatment With the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) Device: Case Report
Authors: Drofa Alexander , Kouznetsov Evgueni 
Published: April 2024

Background
Introduced to the clinical field in 2011, the Woven EndoBridge (Sequent Medical) device is recognized as a significant innovation for managing wide‐neck bifurcation aneurysms. Delayed aneurysm ruptures, typically occurring hours to months after Woven EndoBridge placement, have been reported.

Methods
We present a case of a previously unruptured, known residual aneurysm that ruptured 6 years after treatment with a Woven EndoBridge device. This case underscores the fact that intrasaccular flow diversion, without achieving aneurysm occlusion, does not prevent aneurysm rupture.

Conclusion
Consequently, aneurysm retreatment to attain complete occlusion is imperative.
Sparse Firing in a Hybrid Central Pattern Generator for Spinal Motor Circuits
Authors: Strohmer Beck , Najarro Elias , Ausborn Jessica , Berg Rune W. , Tolu Silvia 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Central pattern generators are circuits generating rhythmic movements, such as walking. The majority of existing computational models of these circuits produce antagonistic output where all neurons within a population spike with a broad burst at about the same neuronal phase with respect to network output. However, experimental recordings reveal that many neurons within these circuits fire sparsely, sometimes as rarely as once within a cycle. Here we address the sparse neuronal firing and develop a model to replicate the behavior of individual neurons within rhythm-generating populations to increase biological plausibility and facilitate new insights into the underlying mechanisms of rhythm generation. The developed network architecture is able to produce sparse firing of individual neurons, creating a novel implementation for exploring the contribution of network architecture on rhythmic output. Furthermore, the introduction of sparse firing of individual neurons within the rhythm-generating circuits is one of the factors that allows for a broad neuronal phase representation of firing at the population level. This moves the model toward recent experimental findings of evenly distributed neuronal firing across phases among individual spinal neurons. The network is tested by methodically iterating select parameters to gain an understanding of how connectivity and the interplay of excitation and inhibition influence the output. This knowledge can be applied in future studies to implement a biologically plausible rhythm-generating circuit for testing biological hypotheses.
Wood utilized for wooden components in ancient buildings of Tingbao Yang’s former residence
Authors: Yang Yan , Ji Haidi , Li Bin , Chen Lianlong , Song Xiaohan , Zhao Jing 
Published: April 2024

Summary
A comprehensive analysis was conducted using optical microscopy based on wood anatomy to enhance the preservation of wooden components in Tingbao Yang’s former residence. This study identified wood samples, and statistical examination of wood species, variations in their configuration, physical and mechanical properties, and natural durability were examined. The principles for wood species selection were assessed. Findings indicate that Cunninghamia lanceolata, Pseudotsuga spp., Populus spp. and Ulmus spp. are the primary choices for these wooden components. However, certain portions incorporate Larix sect. Multiseriales, Picea brachytyla, Pinus bungeana, Pinus massoniana, Castanea sp. and Quercus subg. Lepidabalanus, sect. Prinus. Pseudotsuga spp., C. lanceolata, Ulmus spp. and Populus spp. are primarily utilized for wooden columns and melon columns. However, C. lanceolata, Ulmus spp. and Populus spp. possess inadequate parallel grain compressive strength for load-bearing compression wooden components. C. lanceolata and Ulmus spp. are widely utilized in beams, lintels, purlins, and rafters owing to their exceptional bending strength. It was noted that Castanea sp. and Quercus subg. Lepidabalanus, sect. Prinus wood varieties demonstrate superior resistance to rotting and insects compared with other types of wood. The selection of wood species for the ancient buildings of Tingbao Yang’s former residence relies on crucial principles, such as the suitability of wood properties and local selection. This selection process involves analyzing the wood properties, assessing the natural durability of wooden components, and considering the distribution of forest resources in Henan Province.
Taiwan’s Regional Identity under the New Southbound Policy
Authors: Effendi Tonny Dian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Discussion of Taiwan’s identity usually focuses more on its domestic identity in terms of a dichotomy between Chinese and Taiwanese identity than its regional identity. But the New Southbound Policy provides space to discuss Taiwan’s regional identity due to its emphasis on Taiwan’s relations with its southern neighbours. Adopting a constructivist perspective of International Relations, this article explores the construction of Taiwan’s regional identity and the influence of Taiwan–Southeast Asia relations. I point out two key findings: (1) Taiwan’s changing perception of Southeast Asia is critical for the construction of Taiwan’s regional identity, including this region as a ‘significant other’ for Taiwan’s role identity; and (2) Taiwan’s regional identity under the New Southbound Policy integrates both personal and role identities, and covers both domestic and regional dimensions.