bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic structure of invasive ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi populations in temperate northern European waters supports the southern North Sea overwintering refuge
Authors: Lüskow Florian , Knudsen Steen Wilhelm 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi is native to the Atlantic coasts of the Americas and is considered a threat to biodiversity and food webs in introduced ecosystems. Most of these invasive ctenophores perish during the cold winter in temperate northern European waters (North and Baltic Seas), but spread again every summer/autumn. We collected ctenophores from the southern North Sea, inner Danish waters, and western Baltic Sea in 2017 and 2018, and sequenced genomic DNA obtained from tissue samples. We obtained sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 and 2, and the intervening 5.8S fragment and partial fragments of the flanking 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes from nuclear DNA (nDNA). These sequences were compared with ones archived in databases from specimens in its native (Northwest Atlantic) and other invaded habitats (Caspian Sea, Mediterranean Sea, central-western Atlantic Ocean). The comparison revealed no significant difference in genetic internal variation among temperate northern European sampling locations but showed variation when compared with native and other invaded habitats. No significant genetic difference was identified between specimens collected in the temperate northern European waters in the two consecutive years 2017 and 2018. The very low interregional and interannual genetic variations in M. leidyi specimens in the Northeast Atlantic indicate that its distribution in temperate northern European waters can be regarded as one single panmictic population and that the annual dispersal from the southeastern North Sea into the western Baltic Sea can be traced back to the same population, which most likely originates every spring from the Dutch Wadden Sea and the English Channel.
Efficient Atrazine Degradation through ZnFe2O4-Catalyzed Peroxymonosulphate Activation
Authors: Gao Junyi , zhao xuying , Li Caibin , Luo Zhenbao , long Zhang , Xiao Zhipeng , Mu Tingting , Liu Furong , Gao Ruikang , Zhang Jiguang , Sun Xiwen 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Atrazine (ATZ) is widely used as an herbicide in agricultural production. However, its extensive application results in contaminated residues that can adversely affect ecosystems because rainwater washes them into and contaminates water bodies. Therefore, there is a pressing need to remove ATZ from the aquatic environment. Using transition metals as catalysts for the persulfate degradation of organic pollutants has received much attention because of their strong ability to oxidize pollutants, including ATZs, and their selectivity for these pollutants. A novel technique for ATZ removal using a catalyst (ZnFe2O4) to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) was developed in this study . The ZnFe2O4 catalyst was prepared through co-precipitation, which involves the doping of zinc in iron-based materials. And this process accelerated the redox cycle, which energized the PMS and promoted the generation of free radicals. Electron paramagnetic resonance analysis revealed that ZnFe2O4 activates PMS and generates SO4•-, HO•, O2•-, and 1O2 to eliminate ATZ. In this study, a new approach is proposed for the development of efficient heterogeneous catalysts capable of activating PMS and eliminating the ATZ. Moreover, The ATZ degradation pathway was proposed based on the products identified by UPLC-MS. The results highlighted the efficiency of the as-prepared ZnFe2O4 catalyst in ATZ removal and its excellent performance. Given its environmentally friendly and efficient performance, The ZnFe2O4 catalyst has significant potential implications for agricultural environmental remediation.
GIS and Remote Sensing Based Assessment of West Rapti River Channel Migration in Nepal
Authors: Gharti Sandesh , Silwal Ramesh , Poudel Prabin , Mishra Om , Dhungana Dipendra 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study uses geospatial technique to analyze the spatio-temporal changes of West Rapti River Channel from 1990 to 2023, to assess their impact in Deukhuri Valley. Using freely available Landsat satellite imagery we extracted water surface features through the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) and generated 27 cross-sections (CS) to track channel shift. The results indicated the significant shifts, notably 1426.97 m northeast shift in CS-23 and 718.55 m south shift in CS-25 attributed to sand deposition during flooding. Nearly no shifting impact was observed from CS-12 to CS-17 showing embankment and mitigation efforts being effective within this range. Study shows river is naturally multi-channeled and exhibits braided planform with sinuosity index values ranging from 1.02 to 1.38, indicating highly braided during 2010 and 2015. The river channel was found to be driven by a high sediment deposit of about 15.35 Sq. km across the 53 km range. These results are crucial for formulating integrated river basin management plans in the West Rapti River basin laying foundation for future research to explore sustainable management practices in the future.
Balancing personal and social identities for the care of priority populations in a paediatric hospital setting: A qualitative study
Authors: Nobilo Ashlie , Wallace Seaneen , Kearns Anna , Majidi Safa , Beek Anna van , Tissue Avalon , Shipley Kiya , Khan Jahidur Rahman , Lingam Raghu , Zwi Karen , Hodgins Michael 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
The Providing Enhanced Access to Child Health Services (PEACH) initiative at the Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (SCHN) aims to reduce inequity in healthcare access and outcomes for priority population children and young people (including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, culturally and linguistically diverse, from refugee or asylum seeker backgrounds, living in out-of-home care or recipients of the National Disability Insurance Scheme). Central to PEACH is active consumer engagement through co-design, recognising the importance of understanding consumers’ experiences to facilitate enhanced healthcare provision. This qualitative study explored the experiences of priority population consumers at SCHN before the implementation of PEACH initiatives, with the aim of identifying strengths, limitations, and recommendations for enhancing healthcare services tailored to priority population needs.
Methods
Guided by an experience-based co-design methodology, 28 qualitative semi-structured interviews were carried out with a total of 38 participants from priority population group(s) who had accessed care at SCHN. The data were analysed via inductive thematic analysis.
Results
The findings are presented through the lens of the concept of identity, delineated into personal and social identity. Personal identity is related to person before problem and demography, while social identity is linked to cultural responsiveness. Consumers emphasised both the significance of social identities in health service design, and the importance of an individualised approach that recognises and respects their unique personal identities within the broader social context.
Conclusions
This research advocates for a person-centred approach to healthcare delivery that recognises and responds to the dynamic interconnected relationship between personal and social identities.
Numerical analysis on three-dimensionality of supersonic flow over open cavities
Authors: Seth Soham 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study utilizes commercially available Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to analyze how variations in the length-to-width (L/W) ratio impact open cavity flow characteristics under supersonic conditions (Mach number of 1.5). By maintaining a constant length-to-depth (L/D) ratio, and varying cavity width, the focus of this study lies on understanding how changes in cavity geometry influence flow patterns. Key parameters such as pressure coefficients, velocity distributions, streamlines, and vortices are investigated to gain insights into the three-dimensional nature of flow within the cavities. By varying width, while keeping cavity length and depth constant, the study aims to provide a deeper understanding of flow phenomena within such cavities. The chosen Mach number ensures consistency across simulations, facilitating a focused exploration of the effects of cavity geometry on flow features.
Cohort retention in a pandemic response study: Lessons from the SARS-Cov-2 Immunity &amp; Reinfection Evaluation (SIREN) study
Authors: Howells Anna , Munro Katie , Foulkes Sarah , Kamal Atiya , Haywood Jack , Russell Sophie , Sparkes Dominic , Aquino Erika , Evans Jennie , Weston Dale , Hopkins Susan , Islam Jasmin , Hall Victoria 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
The SIREN Study is a healthcare worker cohort study aiming to determine COVID-19 incidence, duration of immunity and vaccine effectiveness across 135 NHS organisations in four UK nations. Conducting an intensive prospective cohort study during a pandemic was challenging. We designed an evolving retention programme, utilising participant engagement tools underpinned by our Participant Involvement Panel (PIP) and here we evaluate cohort retention over time and identify learnings.
Methods
A mixed method evaluation of cohort retention in 12 and 24-month follow-up. We described cohort retention by demographics and site, using odds ratios from logistic regression. Withdrawal reasons were collected by survey. We collected participant feedback via cross-sectional online survey utilising a behavioural science approach. We conducted focus groups with site teams and conducted thematic analysis exploring cohort retention challenges and facilitators.
Results
37,275 (84.7%) participants completed 12-months of follow-up. Of 14,772 participants extending their follow-up to 24 months, 12,635 (85.5%) completed this. Retention increased with age in the 12 (55–64 years vs < 25 years OR = 2.50; 95% CI: 2.19–2.85) and 24-month (> 65 years vs < 25 years OR = 2.92; 95% CI: 1.78–4.88) cohorts. Retention was highest in the Asian and Black compared to White ethnic groups in the 12 (OR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.23–1.56; p < 0.001, and OR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.30–2.08) and 24-month (OR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.42–2.25; p < 0.001, and OR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.41–3.35) cohort. Among participants withdrawing, the median time in follow-up at withdrawal was 7 months (IQR: 4–10 months) within the 12-month cohort and 19 months within the 24-month cohort (IQR: 16–22 months). The top three reasons for participant withdrawal were workload, leaving site employment and medical reasons. Themes identified from focus-groups included: the need to monitor and understand participant motivation over time, the necessity of inclusive and comprehensive communication, the importance of acknowledging participant contributions, building collaboration with local research teams, and investing in the research team skillset.
Conclusion
Participant retention in the SIREN study remained high over 24-months of intensive follow-up, demonstrating that large-cohort studies are feasible as a pandemic research tool. Insights into facilitators and challenges provide learning for future studies.
The impact of Heavy dust pollution reduces biodiversity by altering the metabolism and biochemical characteristics of Fagonia indica
Authors: Sultan Muhammad Asim , Ahmad Iftikhar , Abbas Toqeer , Shah Anis Ali , Elansary Hosam O. , Sridh Shankarappa 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Present study was conducted to explore the population dynamics in vegetation of Kirana Hills, Sargodha growing under extreme dust pollution of stone crushing industry. Through extensive survey study sites were selected and floristic composition of the area was also completed. Heavy metal analysis of the dust revealed that all heavy metals were higher at extreme dust sites particularly in winter. The soil at each site and at each season varies based on the soil analysis. Vegetation data was collected by using quadrate method. Density, frequency, coverage and importance value of vegetation was significantly decreased at extreme dust sites specifically in winter. Fagonia indica was collected throughout the study sites and evaluated for morpho-anatomical, biochemical, and physiological characteristics. Metabolic and morpho-anatomical features of all plants were severely affected at extreme dust sites, however high metabolic rate, high sclerification in leaf, root and stem along with presence of large aerenchyma cells in roots were also noticed at extreme dust sites, and these modifications help to survive in such harsh dust polluted environment. In biochemical parameters reactive oxygen species (H2O2) production was increased at extreme dust sites, furthermore activity of enzymatic antioxidants, non-enzymatic antioxidants and osmoprotectant were increased at extreme dust sites in F. indica. Metabolic rate and concentration of heavy metals in selected ecotype also increased at extreme dust sites.
Urban Ground Subsidence Monitoring and Prediction Using Time-Series InSAR and Machine Learning Approaches: A Case Study of Tianjin, China
Authors: Zhang Jinlai , Kou Pinglang , tao yuxiang , Jin Zhao , Huang Yijian , Cui Jinhu , Liang Wenli , Liu Rui 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Urban ground subsidence, a major geo-hazard threatening sustainable urban development, has been increasingly reported worldwide, yet comprehensive investigations integrating multi-temporal ground deformation monitoring and predictive modeling are still lacking. This study aims to characterize the spatial-temporal evolution of ground subsidence in Tianjin's Jinnan District from 2016 to 2023 using 193 Sentinel-1A ascending images and the advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (InSAR) techniques of SBAS-InSAR and PS-InSAR. The maximum cumulative subsidence reached − 326.92 mm, with an average subsidence rate of -0.39 mm/year concentrated in industrial, commercial, and residential areas with high population density. Further analysis revealed that subway construction, human engineering activities, and rainfall were the primary drivers of ground subsidence in this region. Simultaneously, this study compared the predictive capabilities of five machine learning methods, including Support Vector Machine, Gradient Boosting Decision Tree, Random Forest, Extremely Randomized Tree, and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network, for future ground subsidence. The LSTM-based prediction model exhibited the highest accuracy, with a root mean square error of 2.11 mm. Subdomain predictions generally outperformed the overall prediction, highlighting the benefits of reducing spatial heterogeneity. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms and patterns of urban ground subsidence, facilitating sustainable urban planning and infrastructure development.
New findings on the unique curvature region in the posterior eye using widefield OCT
Authors: Hiraoka Takahiro , Tamura Masato , Moriguchi Yoshikiyo , Kuji Riku , Mino Toshihiro , Akiba Masahiro , Takahashi Yosuke , Yoshino Kenichi , Sugiura Yoshimi , Mihashi Toshifumi , Oshika Tetsuro 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the curvature distribution in the posterior eye among school-aged children using distortion-corrected optical coherence tomography (OCT) images and its relationship with biometric variables and choroidal vascular parameters. We conducted a prospective, observational, cross-sectional study involving 88 children aged 6 to 15 years. After comprehensive ocular examinations, widefield OCT volumes with a 68×68 degrees were captured utilizing a high-speed, wide-field SS-OCT prototype system. The distortion of the captured OCT volume was geometricallycorrected, and Gaussian curvature maps were derived from Bruch’s membrane segmentation lines. The mean curvature was assessed across four square regions of 19×19 degrees each, where axial length (AL), refractive error, age, and choroidal thickness (ChT) were statistically analyzed. Additionally, the entry site of the long posterior ciliary artery (LPCA) into the choroid were assessed from the same OCT volume.
Analysis of 169 OCT images demonstrated bilateral symmetry in choroidal vascular patterns and posterior eye curvature. Mean curvature exhibited asignificant correlation with AL, refractive error, and ChT in the superior, macular, and inferior regions. Conversely, the temporal region showed a weak negative correlation. Notably, a local maximum curvature point was commonly observed in the temporal region for the first time in this study, suggesting a potential reversal of correlation in this area. The rationale for this observation remains unclear; however, the proximity of the local maximum curvature point to the long posterior ciliary artery (LPCA) entry site may suggest a link. Further investigation is necessary to elucidate the origins and implications of these findingsfor ocular development.
Development of Ir-cR8-albumin nanomedicine toward the interventional treatment of liver cancer
Authors: Sun Xingwei , Chang Shiwei , Wang Di , Yin Liang , Zhang Hao , Ji Shuangshuang , Fei Hao , Jin Yong 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most challenging malignancies with high incidence and mortality rates in the world. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA)-guided hepatic arterial infusion of the standard chemotherapeutic agent oxaliplatin has the advantages of both precision and efficacy, making it an important therapeutic strategy for advanced-stage liver cancer. However, patients undergoing this treatment still face severe systemic toxicity and poor tolerability of oxaliplatin. In this study, we compared oxaliplatin with a novel albumin nanoparticle-formulated oncolytic peptide Ir-cR8 (Ir-cR8-BSA-NP) in the treatment of orthotropic liver cancers in a mouse model by intravenous injection and in a rabbit model by DSA-guided hepatic arterial infusion. The oncolytic peptide Ir-cR8, containing a cationic octa-arginine ring and a hydrophobic domain, was found to interact with bovine serum albumin and further assemble into spherical nanoparticles with an average diameter of 150 nm. Such albumin opsonisation significantly increases the stability of the peptide and reduces its haemolytic toxicity. In vivo experiments in mice showed that intravenous administration of Ir-cR8-BSA-NP had excellent inhibitory effects on H22 orthotopic liver tumours and reduced toxicity in the animals than oxaliplatin. Furthermore, in the rabbit VX2 orthotopic liver cancer model, oxaliplatin or Ir-cR8-BSA-NP was administered by hepatic artery infusion under DSA guidance, followed by PET/CT assessment of treatment efficacy. The results showed that Ir-cR8-BSA-NP significantly outperformed oxaliplatin in reducing tumour size. Thus, this study demonstrated the combined advantages of a novel membrane-active oncolytic peptide nanomedicine and precise drug delivery enabled by arterial infusion technology for the interventional treatment of liver cancer.
Causal association between atorvastatin use and erectile dysfunction in European population: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jin Xiaodong , Jin Xiaodong , Wu Junhui , Wu Junhui , Li Jiali , Li Jiali , Ma Wenjing , Ma Wenjing , Jiang Nan , Jiang Nan , Yan Jiasheng , Yan Jiasheng , Tai Shengcheng , Tai Shengcheng , Wang Junlong , Wang Junlong 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Atorvastatin, a common cardiovascular drug, lowers cholesterol but its link to erectile dysfunction (ED) risk is unclear. This study uses a two-sample MR approach to clarify this. This study used three GWAS datasets: one for atorvastatin use (13851 cases, 449082 controls), and two for ED in Europeans (6175 cases, 217630 controls; 357 cases, 208451 controls). Two MR analyses assessed atorvastatin as exposure and ED as outcome, using IVW, MR Egger et al.. Meta-analysis improved result reliability. MR-Presso global test and MR-Egger assessed pleiotropy, while co-localization analyzed shared genetic factors. One set of MR analysis results did not find evidence supporting a causal relationship between the two variables. However, the IVW results from another set (OR = 1.992, 95% CI = 1.138 ~ 3.489, P = 0.016) and the final meta-analysis (P = 0.010) both indicated a potential association between atorvastatin use and ED. Sensitivity analysis did not detect pleiotropy or heterogeneity, and leave-one-out analysis showed no significant influence from instrumental variables. Additionally, co-localization analysis revealed no shared genetic factors between atorvastatin use and ED, suggesting a direct impact of exposure on the outcome. This study's results show a potential link between atorvastatin use and ED, suggesting increased ED risk for users.
Radiotherapy Improves Stress Urinary Incontinence but Impairs Pelvic Floor Function in Endometrial Cancer Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: erkılınç selçuk , Çakır Ilker , Karataşlı Volkan , Can Behzat , Ata Can , Avşar Aytuğ , Solmaz Ulaş , Sancı Muzaffer , Bildacı Tevfik Berk 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Investigating the Impact of Radiotherapy on Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Endometrial Cancer Patients
Method
A comparative study was conducted between endometrial cancer patients who underwent radiotherapy and those who did not receive adjuvant therapy. Patients were assessed during their first follow-up visit at third month post-radiotherapy or post-surgery. Demographic data and physical examinations were conducted, along with the administration of validated questionnaires. Turkish validated Incontinence Severity Index (ISI), Incontinence Impact Questionairre-7 (IIQ-7) and 20 ıtem Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Index (PFDI-20) were applied to the all patients.
Results
The study comprised 37 patients in the non-radiotherapy group and 41 patients in the radiotherapy group. Comparable demographics were observed between the two groups. Vaginal length was notably longer in the non-radiotherapy group, and the Q tip test angle was significantly greater in this group. A higher incidence of stress urinary incontinence and higher scores on the Incontinence Severity Index were noted in the non-radiotherapy group. Conversely, the radiotherapy group exhibited significantly higher scores on the Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Index components and total score. Urogenital Distress Inventory scores were similar between the groups.
Conclusion
Radiotherapy showed mixed effects on pelvic floor function in endometrial cancer patients. While it potentially improved stress urinary incontinence, it was associated with unfavorable outcomes in overall pelvic floor dysfunction.