bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A constructed PDO history for the past three centuries derived from an ice core isotope record on the central Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Tian Lide , Li Shijie , Cai Zhongyin , Wang Di , Shao Lili , Yang Xiaoyi , Wang Shangjie , Liu Feng , Liang Pengbin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Ice core oxygen isotope (δ18O) records from low-latitude regions preserve high-resolution climate records in the past, yet the interpretation of these ice core δ18O records is still facing difficulty due to the uncertainty of ice core dating. Here we present a new established δ18O time series from Qiangtang (QT) No. 1 ice core retrieved from the central Tibetan Plateau. Given the vagueness of the seasonal signals in the QT ice core, we investigated the spectral properties of δ18O record with respect to depth and discussed the implications of significant spectral power peaks in the QT ice core. We employed a variational mode decomposition (VMD) analysis for the upper part of the QT ice core to decompose the δ18O depth series in order to separate the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) mode, a signal strongly preserved in the QT ice core δ18O record. With this approach, we established a time series of 335 years (1677–2011 CE) for the upper 50 m of the QT ice core. Subsequently, we examined the frequency of the new established δ18O time series and detected strong signals of the bidecadal and multidecadal modes of Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). The PDO consists of two modes with periods of approximately 25–35 years and 50–70 years, and we found that the 50–70 years periodicity has persisted since 1700 CE, succeeded by dominance of the 25–75 years periodicity after 1900 CE. Additionally, we analyzed the δ18O series of the QT ice core during the past century and determined that the increasing frequency of El Niño events is an important factor contributing to the increase in ice core δ18O.
Investigation of risk factors for vaginal dehiscence and development of small bowel evisceration after robot-assisted radical cystectomy for female bladder cancer and an improved vaginal reconstruction technique to prevent its onset
Authors: Fukata Satoshi , Kawaguchi Ayano , Yoshimura Rie , Fukuhara Hideo , Karashima Takashi , Inoue Keiji 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction Transvaginal organ prolapse, such as small bowel evisceration, is a rare complication after radical cystectomy (RC) in female patients with invasive bladder cancer, However, it often requires emergency surgical repair. Here, we describe our experience with such a case and a review of similar previously reported cases, along with evaluation of the risk factors. We also propose a vaginal reconstruction technique to prevent this complication during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy (RARC).
Methods A total of 178 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) or RARC were enrolled, 34 of whom (19%) were female. One of the 34 female patients had transvaginal small bowel evisceration after RARC. We evaluated our case and six such previously reported cases, to determine vaginal reconstruction techniques during RARC to prevent this complication postoperatively.
Results Median age of these cases was 73 (51-80) years, and all patients were postmenopausal. The median time to small bowel evisceration was 14 (6-120) weeks postoperatively. In addition, we changed the methods of the vaginal reconstruction technique during RARC from the conventional side-to-side closure technique to the improved caudal-to-cephalad closure technique. Since implementing this change, we have not experienced any cases of vaginal vault dehiscence or organ prolapse.
ConclusionsTransvaginal small bowel evisceration after RC can easily become severe. Therefore, all possible preventive measures should be taken during RARC. We believe that our vaginal reconstruction techniques might reduce the risk of developing this complication.
Comparative Effectiveness of Minimally Invasive Surgery vs Open Surgery in neuroblastoma
Authors: Qin Lan , Zhao Zhenzhen , Kong XiangRu , Li Yonggang , Yang Chao , Deng Xiaobing , Peng Liang , Lv LinYa , Li ChangChun , Wang Shan , Zhang Jun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the feasibility of minimally invasive surgery（MIS）used in the treatment of neuroblastoma. Methods: Selected NB patients were randomly assigned to the MIS group and the open surgery（OS） group. The operative details, major complications, and prognosis of the two groups were compared. Results: A total of 35 children undergoing MIS and 35 children undergoing open surgery were enrolled in this study. According to the INRGSS staging system, 30 patients were classified as stage L1, 32 as stage L2, and 8 as stage M. No statistical difference was found in the age of the children and the maximum diameter of the primary site tumor between the two groups. The bleeding volume in the OS group was significantly higher than that in the MIS group (P=0.006), The time to start postoperative feeding in the MIS group was significantly shorter than that in the OS group (P<0.001). No significant difference was found in the number of GTR between the MIS group and the OS group (P=0.246). The one-year survival rate and overall survival rate of the MIS group were 100% and 93.85%, while the OS group was 100% and 93.72%, respectively. Conclusion: MIS has more advantages than OS for suitable neuroblastoma, while the prognosis is almost the same. After gradually improving the indications for MIS, it should become the preferred surgical method for children within this range.
Poor sleep quality is linked to increased frailty in middle-aged people living with HIV in Botswana
Authors: Zheng Xi , Cai Ruixue , Gao Chenlu , Ponatshego Ponego , Gao Lei , Montano Monty A. , Hu Kun , Mosepele Mosepele , Li Peng 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This work aims to evaluate associations between self-reported sleep health and frailty in Botswana, a sub-Saharan Africa setting. Fifty persons living with HIV (PLWH) on suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART) and fifty HIV seronegative control participants are enrolled in Botswana. Sleep quality is scored subjectively as “good” or “poor” based on self-report. A frailty index (FI) is constructed based on thirty-three health deficits related to body mass index, waist circumference, physical activity, emotional status, and fatigue, and scored ranging between 0 (no deficit present) and 1 (all deficits present). Sleep quality between PLWH and controls is compared using logistic regression; linear regression is performed to compare the FI between them. Linear regressions are performed to examine the association between the FI and sleep quality stratified by HIV serostatus. Age, sex, and comorbidities are adjusted; when relevant, CD4 cell and ART duration are controlled. PLWH display 2.88 (95% CI: 1.22–6.79, p = 0.02) higher odds of having poor sleep than controls. Having poor sleep is associated with increased FI in PLWH but not in controls. Specifically, compared with PLWH who have good sleep, PLWH who report poor sleep have a > 1 standard deviation (p < 0.0001) increase in their FI score.
Prevalence of and challenges in diagnosing subclinical Plasmodium falciparum infections in Southern Ghana
Authors: Mutala Abdul-Hakim , Afriyie Stephen Opoku , Addison Thomas Kwame , Antwi Kwasi Baako , Troth Emma V. , Vera-Arias Claudia A. , Badu-Tawiah Abraham , Addo Mathew Glover , Koepfli Cristian , Badu Kingsley 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Many national malaria elimination programmes (NMEP) are intensifying campaigns for malaria control and elimination. However, these efforts are constrained by the high prevalence of subclinical infections which may sustain local disease transmission. The detection and treatment of these subclinical and low-density infection is therefore crucial in monitoring progress towards malaria control and elimination. This study sought to determine the prevalence of subclinical infections in three districts in Ghana, the proportion that could be detected by rapid diagnostic test (RDT), and the occurrence of hrp2/hrp3 deletions which may impede diagnosis by HRP2-based RDTs.
Methods
A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in the Nkwanta South, Sekyere South, and Ga South districts in Ghana. A total of 1134 whole blood samples were screened by HRP2-based rapid diagnostic test (RDT), expert microscopy, and varATS qPCR. 304 P. falciparum positive samples were typed for hrp2/hrp3 deletions by digital PCR (dPCR).
Results
Parasite prevalence was 57.1% by qPCR, 40.9% by RDT, and 8.4% by microscopy. 33.8% (219/647) of infections were sub-patent. Compared to qPCR, the sensitivity of RDT was 65.7%, and the specificity of 91.9% and thus substantially higher than microscopy (sensitivity 14.4%, specificity 99.4%). Parasite prevalence was highest in children aged 5–15 years (68.2%), followed by adults > 15 years (51.2%) and children < 5 years (45.3%). Prevalence also differed across the three districts, ranging from 44.0% (183/416) in Sekyere South, 55.8% (143/253) in Ga South, to 68.8% (321/466) in Nkwanta South. No hrp2 deletions were observed, and one sample (1/304) carried hrp3 deletion.
Conclusion
The high prevalence of subclinical malaria infections is likely to be a potential reservoir in sustaining malaria transmission. HRP2-based RDTs detected two-thirds of the subclinical infections. Thus, community test and treatment programs using highly sensitive RDTs could be a valuable strategy to reduce the reservoir.
Durability analysis of metakaolin recycled concrete under sulphate dry and wet cycle
Authors: Zhong Chuheng , Wang Dongping , Zhang Lijuan , Mao Weiqi , Xing Sijia , Chen Jinhui 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

To improve the durability, performance, cost-effectiveness and sustainability of recycled fine aggregate concrete (RFAC) under the combined effects of wet and dry cycle and sulfate erosion. Dry and wet cycling tests in 5% sulfate erosion environment were carried out after incorporating content of metakaolin and 15% fly ash mixture (M)) in RFAC. Study of 0%, 30%, 60% and 90% recycled fine aggregate replacement of natural fine aggregate on RFAC mass loss, cubic compressive strength, relative dynamic modulus test, damage modeling and prediction of damage life of concrete. The results revealed that in the early cycles, the specimens exhibited significant improvements in compressive strength, mass, and dynamic modulus. However, in the later cycles, the performance of the specimens deteriorated. Optimal performance was achieved with a 15% MK content and a 60% replacement rate of recycled fine aggregate. The application of the Weibull function modeling estimated the longest service life of M15RAC60 under 5% sulfate dry-wet cycles to be approximately 578 cycles.
Prevalence and Distribution of the Trematode-Transmitting Snail Bithynia siamensis in Southern Thailand
Authors: Krailas Duangduen , Wongpim Thanaporn , Komsuwan Jirayus , Veeravechsukij Nuanpan , Janmanee Chanyanuch , Thongchot Piyawan , Dechruksa Wivitchuta , Suwanrat Saranphat , Tharapoom Kampanat , Glaubrecht Matthias 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of larval trematode infections in bithyniid snails across five provinces in southern Thailand. A total of 1,413 Bithynia siamensis snails were collected between October 2021 and October 2022 using handpicking and scooping methods. Among these, 844 were identified as B. s. siamensis and 569 as B. s. goniomphalos. The snail samples were examined for parasitic infections in the laboratory using shedding and crushing methods. Among the 27 sampling sites, snails from 6 sites were infected with various trematode species (infection rate: 4.95%, 70/1,413). Evaluation of the morphological and internal organ characteristics of the cercariae allowed for the categorization of the trematodes into five species of cercariae (belonging to four families). The identified species included Echinochasmus pelecani (family: Echinostomatidae), Echinostoma revolutum (family: Echinostomatidae), Haematoloechus similis (family: Haematoloechidae), Loxogenoides bicolor (family Lecithodendriidae), and Stictodora tridactyla (family: Heterophyidae), and the infection rates for these species were 3.26% (46/1,413), 0.35% (5/1,413), 0.42% (6/1,413), 0.78% (11/1,413), and 0.14% (2/1,413), respectively.
Distribution of tempereture gradient around of corrugated gold tip optical antenna
Authors: zohrabi mehdi , gazizov almaz , salakhov myakzym 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This work is dedicated to the improvement of the near-field enhancement of temperature gradient beneath the tip apex due to delocalized plasmons excitation on a sub-wavelength grating engraved on the tip and nano focusing of these plasmons. we have compared the distribution of temperature gradient of two plasmonics gold tips optical antenna, bare tip and corrugated tip.By applying circular grating to the conical plasmonic optical antenna made of gold, the temperature gradient of around tip will be enhanced .
Cultural adventure games: exploring natural science through local wisdom
Authors: Sirjon Sirjon , Reba Yansen Alberth , Muttaqin M Zaenul , Prasetya Yovian Yustiko 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to develop a natural science learning game oriented toward local Papuan culture for grade IV elementary school students that is feasible and effective. This research uses a qualitative approach with research and development (R&D) research methods with the Lee and Owen development model. The results of the formative evaluation showed an average feasibility test of 3.94 for material experts, learning design experts, and media experts, with good conclusions; one-to-one evaluations,with students obtaining an average of 3.05 with good conclusions;small group evaluations, with an average of 3.43 with very good conclusions; and field trial evaluations, withan average score of 3.61 with a very good conclusion. Therefore, it was concluded that the science learning game oriented toward local Papuan culture for Grade IV elementary school students was very good. The effectiveness of science learning game development oriented toward local Papuan culture was tested through t tests. The results show a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000 < 0.05, so there is a significant difference between science learning outcomes in the pretest and posttest data, so it can be concluded that science learning games oriented toward local Papuan culture are effective in improving the learning outcomes of Grade IV elementary school students.
A Non-Affinity Platform for Processing Knob-into-Hole Bispecific Antibody
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Zhao Puya , Li Min , Li Mengting , Hong Huoyan , Gao Kai 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Bispecific antibodies hold great potential in next-generation biotherapeutics simultaneously bind to two targets. However, the perspective of bispecific has biotherapeutics has been hindered the byproducts at high levels, including high molecular weight (HMW), low molecular weight (LMW) variants at very high levels. In addition, the inevitable expression of homodimers in the host cells further contributes to the obstacles in the commercial development of bispecific antibodies as therapeutics. These above-mentioned byproducts, which closely resemble the target in physicochemical properties, pose several challenges for downstream processes in terms of purification. Here, we have introduced the Knob-into-hole design to avoid mispairing, where mixed-mode resin Capto Adhere was used to capture the target protein at pH 7.8 ± 0.1, with a subsequent AEX as a polishing step. Overall, the results of the two-step chromatography purification method show that the final product purity improved to 98% for SEC-HPLC and 98% for RP-HPLC, with residual HCP controlled at 10 ppm and an excellent recovery rate of 75%. This study offers a non-Protein A capture platform, which offers a simplified, streamlined, and competitive alternative to conventional affinity chromatography.
Adversarial Robustness Improvement for X-ray Bone Segmentation using Synthetic Data created from Computed Tomography Scans
Authors: Fok Wai Yan Ryana , Fieselmann Andreas , Huemmer Christian , Biniazan Ramyar , Beister Marcel , Geiger Bernhard , Kappler Steffen , Saalfeld Sylvia 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Deep learning-based image analysis offers great potential in clinical practice. However, it faces mainly two challenges: scarcity of large-scale annotated clinical data for training and susceptibility to adversarial data in inference. As an example, an artificial intelligence (AI) system could check patient positioning, by segmenting and evaluating relative positions of anatomical structures in medical images. Nevertheless, data to train such AI system might be highly imbalanced with mostly well positioned images being available. Thus, we propose the use of synthetic X-ray images and annotation masks forward projected from 3D photon-counting CT volumes to create realistic non-optimally positioned X-ray images for training. An open-source model (TotalSegmentator) was used to annotate the clavicles in 3D CT volumes. We evaluated model robustness with respect to the internal (simulated) patient rotation α on real-data-trained models and real&synthetic-data-trained models. Our results showed that real&synthetic-data-trained models have Dice score percentage improvements of 3% to 15% across different α groups compared to the real-data-trained model. Therefore, we demonstrated that synthetic data could be supplementary used to train and enrich heavily underrepresented conditions to increase model robustness.
Energy metabolism rewiring following acute UVB irradiation is largely dependent on nuclear DNA damage
Authors: Michon* Pauline , Dousset* Léa , Mahfouf Walid , Fatrouni Hala , Faucheux Corinne , Muzotte Elodie , Rossignol Rodrigue , Moisan François , Cario Muriel , Claverol Stéphane , Favot-Laforge Laure , Nieminen Anni I. , Vainio Seppo , Ali Nsrein , Rezvani Hamid-Reza 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Solar ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation-induced DNA damage is a well-known initiator of skin carcinomas. The UVB-induced DNA damage response (DDR) involves series of signaling cascades that are activated to maintain cell integrity. Among the different biological processes, little is known about the role of energy metabolism in the DDR.
We sought to determine whether UVB-induced nuclear and/or mitochondrial cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) alter cellular energy metabolism. To gain insight into this question, we took advantage of keratinocytes expressing nuclear or mitochondrial CPD photolyase. Applying a quantitative proteomic approach and targeted metabolomics, we observed biphasic alterations in multiple metabolic pathways and in the abundance of various metabolites, largely influenced by the presence of genomic CPDs. The heightened oxygen consumption rate post-irradiation, along with mitochondrial structural rearrangements, was found to be dependent on both mitochondrial and nuclear CPDs.
Understanding the influence of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA damage on keratinocyte responses to UVB irradiation deepens current knowledge regarding skin cancer prevention, initiation, and therapy.

*Pauline Michon and Léa Dousset contributed equally.
Damselflies (Odonata: Zygoptera) in selected areas at Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
Authors: Villaraza Angel Fritz , Madlos Ecclessiah Emmanuel , Dacar Maria Rhotsyn , Butron Julie Ann 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

A study was conducted in freshwater ecosystems in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines damselflies (Odonata: Zygoptera) as a biological indicator. Opportunistic sampling was conducted using sweep nets over a span of 15 days. A total of 224 damselfly individuals representing 3 families of the identified 7 species across three sites namely-Solana, San Isidro and San Nicolas were collected and identified. In terms of species richness, Solana yields higher presence of damselfly species and individual abundance, which is followed by San Nicolas and San Isidro. Moreover, San Isidro has the highest diversity index followed by San Nicolas , and Solana with the lowest diversity. In which the species Rhinocypha colorata is the most dominant and abundant species across the sampling areas. Of the three sites, San Nicolas had the highest evenness index indicating a more balanced distribution of individuals compared to the two sites. The study also identified environmental parameter variables among the surveyed locations, highlighting the intricate relationship between altitude and relative humidity influencing damselfly population and species diversity. Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for adaptive conservation strategies in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, ensuring the long term preservation of biodiversity in these crucial habitat preferences, with San Isidro providing the most favorable conditions for damselfly biodiversity conservation.
New records of ticks (Acari: Ixodida) and Rickettsia species in El Salvador
Authors: Romero Luis E. , Alvarenga Francis , Binder Lina C. , Serpa Maria Carolina A. , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián , Labruna Marcelo B. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The tick fauna of El Salvador is currently represented by 10 species of hard ticks (family Ixodidae) and two species of soft ticks (family Argasidae). This study aimed to report new and additional records of ticks and rickettsiae in El Salvador. During 2019–2021, a total of 216 specimens of ticks were collected from eight host species (domestic and wild animals) and in the environment among 15 geographic localities of El Salvador. Combining morphological and molecular analyses, tick specimens were identified into the following 11 tick species: Amblyomma dissimile, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma mixtum, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma cf. parvum, Amblyomma sabanerae, Amblyomma scutatum, Dermacentor panamensis, Ixodes boliviensis, Ornithodoros puertoricensis, and Otobius megnini. In addition, one free-living nymph was morphologically and molecularly identified as Ixodes sp., although closely related to Ixodes brunneus and Ixodes silvanus. Three rickettsial agents of the spotted fever group were identified: Rickettsia rhipicephali in D. panamensis; a Rickettsia endosymbiont in Ixodes boliviensis; and Rickettsia amblyommatis in A. cf. parvum. This study reports the first records of A. longirostre, D. panamensis, I. boliviensis, O. puertoricensis and O. megnini in El Salvador. In addition, the agents R. rhipicephali and Rickettsia sp. endosymbiont of I. boliviensis are also reported for the first time in the country. With the present study, the current tick fauna of El Salvador increases to 17 species, being 13 Ixodidae and four Argasidae, including the addition of one genus to each of these two families (Ixodes and Otobius, respectively).
RETRACTED: Analysis and Comparison of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle’s Propellers for High Altitude Search and Rescue Missions
Authors: Bhujel Sajan , Basnet Prahar , Khadka Tirtha Bahadur , Bhandari Tulsi Ram , Verma Vikash , Dahal Chiranjivi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.