bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi elevate maize plant tolerance to Antimony, enhancing the nutritive value of seeds
Authors: Zrig Ahlem , Jerbi Ahmed , Labrecque Michel , Hammouda Foued , Sheteiwy Mohamed S. , Okla Mohammad K. , Alaraidh Ibrahim A. , Ahmed Enas S. , Abdelgawad Hamada 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The rise in industrial activity has resulted in an escalating threat antimony (Sb) buildups and biomagnifications in both plants and humans. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been thoroughly investigated as a soil enhancement due to their ability to decrease the accumulation of many heavy metals in plant tissues. However, a quantitative and data-based consensus has yet to be reached on the effect of AMF application on maize plants, focusing on plant growth, nutrient content, and antioxidant properties in maize grains subjected to antimony treatment. A notable decrease in AMF-related parameters, including colonization, hyphal length, and arbuscules, was noted when AMF was combined with Sb compared to AMF alone. The AMF treatment alone enhanced plant growth, as indicated by the increased fresh and dry biomass, while Sb treatment alone reduced substantially the total fresh (66%) and dray weight (65%). However, combining AMF with Sb resulted in significant variations in macro- and micronutrients in maize grains. Notably, the combined AMF and Sb treatment influenced the nutritional value of maize grains, showing increased levels of organic acids, amino acids, and fatty acids compared to control. Furthermore, antioxidant activity of maize grains was enhanced by AMF inoculation, as indicated by high levels of polyphenols (39%), flavonoids (63%), ascorbic acid (ASC) (71%), and glutathione (GSH) (28%) content as response to Sb application. Also, a 33% rise in total tocopherol was noted, reflecting comparable upward trends. These findings suggest that the co-application of AMF and Sb can positively influence maize nutritional quality and antioxidant properties of maize grains, offering benefits for sustainable agricultural practices.
Cytomegalovirus retinitis with panretinal occlusive vasculopathy concealed by Posner– Schlossman syndrome: a case report
Authors: Jeong Seongyong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis is a rare disease, and its overlapping manifestation involving anterior segment is extremely uncommon. We report a case that initially presented Posner-Schlossman syndrome (PSS) and was later diagnosed with CMV retinitis.
Case presentation
A 72-year-old man visited tertiary hospital with uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) in his right eye. At initial presentation, IOP was 36 mmHg and the fundus was not clear due to corneal edema. The spectral-domain optical coherence tomography revealed paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM). A panretinal obstructive vasculopathy was observed on ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography. Three weeks later, trabeculectomy was performed to resolve the persistent high IOP. Once the cornea edema improved, a white patch-like peripheral lesion and silver wire-like retinal vasculature were observed. Aqueous tapping for polymerase chain reaction was positive for CMV. Oral valganciclovir and intravitreal ganciclovir were administered as anti-viral therapy. Despite treatment for four months, the final visual acuity was no light perception with bullous keratopathy and neovascularization on iris.
Conclusions
We described a rare case of simultaneous occurrence of PSS and CMV retinitis. The presence of PAMM could be an initial identifiable sign for CMV retinitis, even when media opacity is present.
A novel machining method using an internal skiving cutter with multiple inserts to manufacture ZC cylindrical worm
Authors: Tran Thi Thanh-Hai , Trong Thuan Luu , Hoang Minh Thuan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The cylindrical worm is usually manufactured by generating methods, such as hobbing and whirling; however, the aforementioned methods are restricted to manufactured time and control machining profile with stock. Therefore, this paper introduces a novel machining process designed for ZC concave worms, simultaneously enhancing machining efficiency and profile control ability. Accordingly, a skiving cutter with multiple inserts on an internal helical gear tooth is proposed. A curve-fitting model of the generating rack is first illustrated to generate the ZC worm flanks when considering grinding stock conveniently. The position of the cutting edge is then analyzed via the geometry of an internal barrel worm to ensure non-interference during the cutting process. In addition, the insert body is generated based on the helicoid motion of the cutting edge. Subsequently, it also presents a machining process to grind the insert body. Furthermore, the skiving process employing multiple inserts on a multi-axis CNC machine is presented. Finally, the meshing and boundary points of the cutting trajectory are concurrently defined during the skiving process. The numerical and virtual experimental results demonstrate the high precision and absence of overcutting in skived worm profiles.
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) predicts relapse free and overall survival in unresected Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer treated with chemo- radiotherapy.
Authors: Pastena Fiorella , Pond Gregory , Tsakiridis Evangelia E. , Gouveia Andre , Ahmadi Elham , Biziotis Olga-Demetra , Ali Amr , Swaminath Anand , Okawara Gordon , Ellis Peter M , Abdulkarim Bassam , Ahmed Naseer , Robinson Andrew , Roa Wilson , Valdes Mario , Kavsak Peter , Wierzbicki Marcin , Wright James , Steinberg Gregory , Tsakiridis Theodoros 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a cytokine of the TGFβ family. Here, we analyzed GDF15 levels in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC) who participated in OCOG-ALMERA (NCT02115464), a phase II randomized clinical trial, that investigated metformin in combination with standard-of-care concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT). Methods: Patients were randomized to treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy and concurrent chest radiotherapy (60-66Gy), with or without metformin (2000mg/d). The trial collected tumor volume parameters, survival outcomes, and patient blood plasma at baseline, during (weeks 1 and 6) and 6 months after cCRT. Plasma GDF15 levels were assayed with the ELISA method. Statistical analyses explored associations between GDF15, survival outcomes, and radiotherapy tumor volumes. Results: Baseline plasma levels of GDF15 were elevated in study patients, they increased during cCRT (p < 0.001), and the addition of metformin was associated with a further increase (week 6, p = 0.033). Baseline GDF15 levels correlated with the radiotherapy gross target volume (GTV, p < 0.01), while week 1 of radiotherapy levels correlated with radiotherapy planned target volume (PTV, p < 0.006). In multivariate analysis, baseline plasma GDF15 was prognostic poor relapse-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS) (p = 0.005 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusions: GDF15 is a plasma marker that responds to the treatment of unresected LA-NSCLC with cCRT and metformin. GDF15 levels correspond with tumor volume and increased GDF15 levels predict for poor RFS and OS. These results require validation in larger clinical trial datasets.
Gut microbiota changes are associated with prolonged neutropenia after induction treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Sørum Maria , Boulund Ulrika , De Pietri Silvia , Weischendorff Sarah , Enevold Christian , Rathe Mathias , Als-Nielsen Bodil , Hasle Henrik , Pamp Sünje , Stokholm Jakob , Müller Klaus 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Prolonged neutrophil recovery during acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment increases infection risk and delays chemotherapy. Emerging evidence implicates the gut microbiota in neutrophil reconstitution after chemotherapy. We explored the interplay between the gut microbiota and neutrophil dynamics, including neutrophil chemoattractants, in 51 children with newly-diagnosed ALL. Daily absolute neutrophil count (ANC), weekly plasma chemokines (CXCL1 and CXCL8), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), and fecal samplings were monitored until day 29 during ALL induction treatment. Fecal sequencing by 16S rRNA revealed an overall significant reduction in bacterial diversity and Enterococcus overgrowth throughout the induction treatment. Prolonged neutropenia (ANC < 0.5x109 cells/L at day 36) and elevated chemokines levels were associated with decreased abundance of genera from the Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae families, decreased Veillonella genus, and Enterococcus overgrowth from diagnosis and throughout induction treatment. G-CSF was upregulated in response to neutropenia but unrelated to microbiota changes. Overall, this study reveals that diminished abundance of specific intestinal commensals and Enterococcus overgrowth are associated with delayed neutrophil reconstitution and increased chemokine signaling. These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanisms behind the huge variability in neutrophil reconstitution post-chemotherapy, emphasizing the need for gut microbiota-sparing strategies to minimize the impact of gut dysbiosis on immune recovery.
Demographic Structure and Comparative Advantages: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Lo Chu-Ping , Yang Chih-Hai 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We present a simple model to address how the demographic structure of a country determines trade pattern. A country with a higher ratio of youth in its workforce demonstrates more learning-by-doing capability and is associated with a faster productivity catch-up to a technology frontier country, thereby gaining comparative advantages in more industries and thus higher incomes. This theoretical prediction is supported by cross-country evidence obtained from a system GMM estimation. We find that the age group 25-44 has the largest influence on productivity catch-up. Moreover, a high quality of human capital among those who study abroad significantly facilitates productivity catch-up.
JEL classifications: J21, J24, O33, O47
Identification of truncated variants in GLI family zinc finger 3 (GLI3) associated with polydactyly
Authors: Wang Run-Yan , Xiong Qin , Chang Si-Hua , Jin Jie-Yuan , Xiang Rong , Zeng Lei , Yu Fang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Polydactyly is a prevalent congenital anomaly with an incidence of 0.3–3.6 per 1000 live births. GLI family zinc finger 3 (GLI3) is a classical causative gene of polydactyly, and serves as a pivotal transcription factor in the hedgehog signaling pathway, regulating the development of the anterior-posterior axis in limbs.
Methods
Three pedigrees of polydactyly patients were enrolled from Hunan Province, China. Pathogenic variants were identified by whole-exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing.
Results
Three variants of GLI3 were identified in these three families, including a novel deletion variant (c.1372del, p.T458QfsX44), a novel insertion-deletion (indel) variant (c.1967_1968delinsAA, p.S656X), and a nonsense variant (c.2374C > T, p.R792X). These variants were present exclusively in patients but not in healthy individuals.
Conclusions
We identified three pathogenic GLI3 variants in polydactyly patients, broadening the genetic spectrum of GLI3 and contributing significantly to genetic counseling and diagnosis for polydactyly.
Comparative Study of Thermal Stability and Thermal Degradation Kinetics of Poly(Vinyl Ethers) with Different Side Groups
Authors: Plachouras Nikolaos V. , Michos–Stavridis Kosmas , Zouganelis Stavros , Pitsikalis Marinos 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This study is focused on the thermal stability and the thermal degradation kinetics of two poly(vinyl ethers), PVEs, with different side groups. The objective was to determine how the nature of the side group affects the thermal properties of these materials. Poly(2–Phthalimide Ethyl Vinyl Ether), PPEVE, was derived via zirconocene–mediated cationic homopolymerization, and poly(2–Amino Ethyl Vinyl Ether), PAEVE, was obtained by hydrazinolysis of PPEVE. The thermal stability was investigated employing thermogravimetric analysis, TGA, and differential thermogravimetry, DTG, at six different heating rates. The thermal decomposition kinetics data were analyzed using the Ozawa–Flynn–Wall, OFW, and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose, KAS, “model–free” methods to calculate the activation energies, \(Ea\), and subsequently the appropriate mathematical model or mechanism to describe the Thermal Decomposition process for each individual homopolymer.
Riparian landscape change: A spatial approach for quantifying change and development of a restoration potential model
Authors: Stieger Martin , McKenzie Paul 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Natural river landscapes can be biodiversity hotspots but are one of the most human altered ecosystems with habitats significantly damaged around the world, and a third of fish populations threatened with extinction. While riparian ecosystems have been negatively altered by anthropogenic activities, effective planning and restoration strategies can reverse negative impacts by improving habitat quality. However, restoring rivers requires appropriate data on current riparian health while also considering priorities for different stakeholders. To address this, a Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to create a new and transferable restoration priority model based on a section of the river Linth in Switzerland as a case study. The restoration priority model is founded on connectivity, river condition, national priority species and species hotspots. Landscape change of the riparian zone was analyzed using aerial imagery and landscape metrics. Almost a quarter of rivers within the study area were considered high or very high restoration priority, with many aquatic species set to benefit from restoration. From 1946 to 2019, the riparian landscape became highly fragmented due to significant growth in impervious surfaces and a loss of agricultural land. The GIS model provides a tool by which environmental agencies can manage natural features over large scales, while also planning priorities and targeting conservation strategies to the areas of greatest need.
The correlation between non-suicidal self-injury and mobile phone social media dependence in adolescents
Authors: Wei Honghui , Zhang Ying , Sun Ningning , Wang Yue , Li Yang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective: To explore the correlation between non-suicidal self-injury behavior and mobile social media dependence in adolescents, and to provide reference for intervention of non-suicidal self-injury.
Methods: A total of 99 adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury behavior in our hospital from January 2022 to December 2023 were selected as the case group, and 97 healthy students were selected as the control group. Ottawa Self-injury Questionnaire, non-suicidal self-injury questionnaireand mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire were used for assessment, and Spearman correlation analysis was used to explore the correlation between the scores of Ottawa self-injury questionnaire, non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire and mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire.
Results: The total score of mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire, conflict and withdrawal scores of the study group were higher than those of the control group, the difference was statistically significant . The scores of the functional subscale of the Ottawa non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire in the case group were higher than those in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. The scores of the five factors in the functional subscale of the Ottawa non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire , internal emotion regulation, social influence, external emotion regulation, sensation seeking and addiction characteristics, were positively correlated with the scores of the five factors in the mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire, salience, social promoting, compulsive, conflict and withdrawal (r=0.155-0.442). The scores of non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire were positively correlated with the conflict, withdrawal and total scores of the mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire (r=0.145-0.209). The factors influencing non-suicidal self-injury include education level, conflict.
Conclusion: There is a correlation between non-suicidal self-injury and mobile phone social media dependence in adolescents, which provides reference for the treatment of non-suicidal self-injury in the future.
Corrosion behavior of additively manufactured FeCrAl in out-of-pile light water reactor environments
Authors: Rebak Raul , Umretiya Rajnikant , Qu Haozheng , Yin Liang , Jurewicz Timothy , Gupta Vipul , Drobnjak Marija , Knussman Michael , Hoffman Andrew 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Iron-Chromium-Aluminum (FeCrAl) alloys are candidate materials for the cladding of Light Water Reactor (LWR) fuels. The FeCrAl alloys in general range in Cr composition from 12% (C26M) to 21% (APMT). In this work the general corrosion behavior of Additively Manufactured (AM) C26M coupons was compared to the behavior of traditional Powder Metallurgy (PM) coupons. Immersion testing were conducted for 12 months at 288°C and 330°C in pure water containing either oxygen or hydrogen. Results show that the mass change of AM specimens in hydrogenated water was like the mass change of PM specimens. In oxygenated water, the mass change of AM coupons was higher and less reproducible than for the PM coupons. Porosity in the AM specimens make their behavior less predictable in high temperature water.
Integrated Intelligent Assistant for Visually Impaired
Authors: S Syed Ameer Abbas , M Hareharan , I Sivakumar 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

A person with a visual impairment finds it more difficult to recognize objects, avoid obstacles, and navigate independently. Visual impairment makes more difficult for those people to learn about their surroundings. Navigating through spaces becomes intricate, as the individual must rely on other senses and aids like canes or guide dogs to detect obstacles and safely maneuver through surroundings. Recognizing objects becomes a complex endeavor, as visual cues are limited or absent, leading to difficulties in identifying items, faces, or even familiar places. The proposed work introduces a brand-new visual assistance solution by creating a single, intelligent device that empowers visually impaired users through its multifaceted functionalities obtained by combining deep learning and machine learning algorithms. Image processing techniques such You Only Look Once (YOLO), Haar-Cascade algorithm is used for object detection and face recognition with the help of camera and other sensors. A comprehensive case study was conducted, demonstrating the real-time capabilities of YOLOv8 in detecting objects and obstacles on public roads, offering empirical evidence of its effectiveness in assisting visually impaired individuals in navigating urban environments safely and independently. The suggested prototype, in comparison to the white cane, provides the visually impaired with increased accessibility, comfort, and ease of navigation, according to the results.
Harnessing Big Data and Data Science for Enhanced Efficiency in Higher Education: An Exhaustive Review and Assessment
Authors: Syed Sadia , Albalawi Eid Mohammad 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The digitalization of higher education has introduced a wealth of data, presenting significant opportunities for utilizing Big Data and data science analytics to streamline processes and improve institutional efficiency. This paper delves into the practical applications of Big Data and data science analytics across various domains of higher education, including student enrolments management, academic advising, learning analytics, and institutional effectiveness. Through the implementation of predictive analytics, personalized interventions, and data-informed decision-making, institutions can optimize resource allocation, enhance student outcomes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. The paper explores the benefits, challenges, and future prospects associated with integrating Big Data and data science analytics, emphasizing their transformative potential in shaping teaching methodologies, learning experiences, and institutional practices. By fostering collaboration and embracing innovation, higher education institutions can fully leverage the power of Big Data and data science analytics to drive student success and achieve institutional objectives.
Pacific Decadal Oscillation and ENSO Forcings of Northerly Low-level Jets on the Eastern Andes and Precipitation Extremes in South America
Authors: Mu Ye , Jones Charles , Carvalho Leila , Xue Lulin , Liu Changhai , Ding Qinghua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The hydrological cycle in South America during austral summer, including extreme precipitation and floods, is significantly influenced by northerly Low-Level Jets (LLJs) along the eastern Andes. The LLJ represents a synoptic weather event characterized by different types (Central, Northern, and Andes). Given that numerous characteristics of the LLJ are sensitive to large-scale climate forcing originating remotely, this study aims to understand how tropical forcings, such as the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), regulate the duration and frequency of each LLJ type on low-frequency time scales and related impacts in precipitation changes based on reanalysis and gauge-based datasets. Our analysis reveals that ENSO and PDO are pivotal in driving the variability of LLJs over the past sixty years. Specifically, the central LLJ type is more prevalent during El Niño years and warm PDO phases, leading to heightened extreme precipitation in southern South America. Conversely, La Niña years during cold PDO phases tend to favor the Northern and Andes LLJs, which are associated with increased precipitation extremes in the western and southeastern parts of the Amazon. Typically, LLJs tend to persist longer during these favored conditions, causing more pronounced precipitation events in the areas under the influence of the LLJs. This study enhances our understanding of the influence of large-scale atmospheric forcings on the regional precipitation dynamics in South America.