bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel Fe/Ca oxide co-coated biochar enables efficient phosphorus recovery
Authors: Hu Anqi , Jiang Yongcan , An Jiaqi , Huang Xiaodian , Elgarhy Abdelbaky Hossam , Cao Huafen , Liu Guanglong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Efficient elimination and retrieval of phosphorus from water bodies are crucial for effective eutrophication management and phosphorus reuse. A novel Fe/Ca oxide co-coated modified biochar (FCBC) was synthesized for phosphate recovery using coconut shell biochar as the raw material with ferrous chloride (FeCl2) and calcium peroxide (CaO2) as precursors. FCBC possesses a highly intricate pore structure and an abundance of surface-active groups. Fe/Ca oxides are loaded onto the biochar in the form of Ca2Fe2O5, Fe2O3, and CaCO3. FCBC demonstrates a broad pH tolerance range (pH = 6 – 12) in the aquatic environment. Phosphorus absorption by FCBC was simulated using the proposed pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir model. The maximal saturation adsorption capacity was found to be 53.31 mg P/g. Phosphorus elimination is influenced by the generation of Ca3(PO4)2, intraparticle diffusion, and electrostatic attraction. FCBC produced demonstrated exceptional phosphorus removal effectiveness in the presence of multiple anions, except for wastewater with high concentrations of SO42-, CO32-, HCO3-, and F- (>500 mg/L). The phosphorus removal effectiveness of FCBC in natural water samples collected from ponds, farmlands, and ditches exceeded 94%. This paper presents a novel technique for creating iron-calcium composite-modified biochar, which offers a valuable method for efficiently recovering phosphorus from agricultural surface waters.
A bidirectional Mendelian randomisation study of the association between gut microbiota and malignant non-melanoma skin cancer
Authors: Hua Xiaxinqiu , Lin Xingong , Guo Xiumei , Zhou Xianying , Chen Pengsheng , Xie Rongrong , Yao Wanting , Huang Yanyan , Liu Huiyong , Zheng Feng , Wang Chaoyang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Gut microbiota are suggested to be associated with a variety of cancers.However, the correlation between gut microbiota and the development of malignant non-melanoma skin cancer (MNMSC) remains unknown. Thus, this study employed a bidirectional Mendelian randomisation (MR) method to investigate the potentially causal association between gut microbiota and MNMSC. Here the detailed genetic data on the gut microbiota available from the MiBioGen consortium and the Dutch Microbiota Project were analysed, as well as the MNMSC data from the UK Biobank.Several sophisticated statistical methods involving inverse variance weighting, weighted median estimator, MR Egger, and simple and weighted mode-based estimator models were utilised to assess the potential association between gut microbiota and MNMSC. Reverse MR and sensitivity analyses were also performed. Eight gut microbiota were identified as potentially causally related to MNMSC. Genera Holdemanella (odds ratio [OR]=0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.99–1.00, 4.5×10-3), Ruminococcaceae UCG014 (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=1.3×10-2), and Sutterella (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=4.2×10-2), Bifidobacterium adolescentis (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=8.8×10-3), Bacteroides dorei (OR=1.00, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=9.9×10-3), and the family Veillonellaceae (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00,P=3.8×10-4) were negatively correlated with MNMSC. Clostridia (OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.02, P=2.1×10-3) and Clostridiales (OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.02, P=2.1×10-3) were positively associated with MNMSC. The inverse association between MNMSC and Veillonellaceae was more pronounced following Bonferroni correction. No causal relationship was determined between MNMSC and any of these eight gut microbiota by reverse MR analysis. This study suggests that specific gut microbiota have potential causal effects on MNMSC. This study indicates that certain gut microbiota may have a causal effect on MNMSC. Thus, gut microbiota modulation may be a potential means to prevent MNMSC.
Distribution characteristics and diagnostic value of TMAO and its precursors in HFpEF and HFrEF
Authors: Li Qing , Song Yulong , Wang Xianliang , Mao Jingyuan , Zhao Zhiqiang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
The diagnosis of HFpEF is currently challenging due to the lack of specific biomarkers. This study aimed to investigate the distribution characteristics of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and its precursors in patients with heart failure with preserved and reduced ejection fraction (HFpEF and HFrEF).
Methods
TMAO, TMA, choline, betaine, and L-carnitine were detected in the plasma of 32 patients with HFpEF, 34 patients with HFrEF and 40 patients without HF.
Results
TMAO and its precursors were found to be elevated both in patients with HFpEF and HFrEF (P < 0.05). The ROC analysis revealed that TMAO and its precursors were more sensitive in diagnosing HFpEF than HFrEF (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
TMAO and its precursors are commonly elevated in patients with HFpEF and HFrEF. The ROC analysis suggests that the combination of TMAO with TMA, choline, and L-carnitine has the potential to be used as biomarkers for assisting in the diagnosis of HFpEF.
Simulation analysis of the evolution law of creep rupture crack extension in X-fractured rock body
Authors: zhao na , wei shuai , sun laigui , wang jingyi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Creep is the macroscopic manifestation of the process of generation, expansion, and penetration of microscopic cracks in a rock body. In this study, the GDEM continuous–discontinuous numerical simulation software was used to model a rock body containing X-type fissures for the purposes of exploring creep crack expansion and rupture in the rock body, analyzing the effects of various factors on X-type fissures in the rock body under the rule of change of the creep curve, and assessing the influences of the intersection angle of the fissure and other factors on the non-parallel fissure rock body on the creep rupture process. The results show that an X-type fissure rock body exhibits a mixed tensile–shear damage mode, with tensile damage being the main type of damage. In the isotropic creep stage of a rock body with X-type fissures, the steady-state creep rate initially increases and then decreases as the sub-fissure length increases, with the change of the fissure angle of the creep rate of the w-type; the sub-fissure length of h is 14mm, the rock body is the first to enter into the accelerated creep stage, for the different fissure intersection angle of the rock body For the rock mass with different fracture angles, the time sequence of entering the accelerated creep stage is consistent with the creep rate; when the fracture intersection angle is 45°, and the sub-fracture length is 12mm, the rock mass has the largest degree of fragmentation, which has a significant impact on the creep damage; after using a single variable processing, it is found that the fracture intersection angle, the sub-fracture length and other factors compared to the fracture intersection angle has a greater impact on the creep damage of the X-type fissure rock mass. This paper can provide theoretical basis and reference for the study of rock engineering creep damage law and mechanical properties of X-type rift rock body.
Unraveling New Therapeutic Targets in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Multi-Omics Mendelian Randomization on Immune Cells, Metabolites, and Inflammation Proteins
Authors: Du Kai , Li Ao , Zhang Chen-Yu , Guo Ren , Li Shu-Ming 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective: To identify novel immunological, metabolic, and inflammatory determinants of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) using Mendelian Randomization (MR), offering new insights into its pathogenesis and potential therapeutic interventions.
Methods: Employing a bidirectional, secondary validation two-sample MR (TSMR), this study investigated causal associations among 1,400 serum metabolites, 731 immune cell traits, and 91 circulating inflammatory proteins with AS. Instrumental variables (IVs) were identified using PLINK for minimal linkage disequilibrium, applying strict significance thresholds. Various MR methodologies, including Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), Weighted Median, and MR-Egger, were applied to validate causal links. Sensitivity analyses, incorporating heterogeneity and pleiotropy tests, were performed to evaluate the robustness of the results. The False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction was applied to adjust for multiple comparisons, while the MR Steiger directionality test and bidirectional MR analysis validated the causation direction. Secondary validation with data from diverse sources was undertaken to confirm the reliability of the findings.
Results: After FDR correction, associations were identified between AS etiology and 9 immune cell traits, 2 serum metabolites, and 2 inflammatory proteins. Notably, the presence of CX3CR1 on monocytes and the absolute count (AC) of CD62L- CD86+ myeloid Dendritic Cells (DCs) were associated with an increased risk of AS. In contrast, expression of HLA DR on DCs, including myeloid and plasmacytoid DCs, and on CD14- CD16- monocytes, along with CD64 expression across various monocyte subsets (monocytes, CD14+ CD16+, and CD14+ CD16-), correlated with a decreased risk of AS development. Serum metabolites, specifically levels of Hexadecanedioate (C16-DC) and Bilirubin (E, Z or Z, E), were also linked to a reduced risk of AS. Regarding inflammatory factors, Interleukin-6 levels were inversely associated with AS morbidity, whereas TNF-beta levels were positively correlated with higher AS morbidity. Neither bidirectional MR nor MR Steiger tests provided evidence supporting reverse causation.
Conclusion: This study sheds light on the complex interactions between immune cells traits, metabolites, and inflammatory proteins in AS, offering new insights into its pathophysiology. The findings underscore the importance of the immune-metabolic-inflammation network in AS, suggesting novel biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for therapy.
Efficacy of intravenous tenecteplase bridge thrombectomy for recurrent ischemic stroke within 3 months: A case report and review
Authors: Liu Cuicui , Liu Junyan , Ren Huiling , Xu Yuzhu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background According to previous guidelines, patients who had a previous stroke within 3 months were excluded from the intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) protocol. Some studies have shown that IVT with alteplase (rt-PA) may be effective and safe in this group, but there is a lack of evidence supporting the use of tenecteplase (TNK).
Case presentation An 80-year-old male admitted for acute ischemic stroke(IS)presented with consciousness and vomiting for 2 hours, who had experienced IS in the vertebrobasilar territory forty-eight days prior, treated by IVT with TNK as a bridging therapy before thrombectomy and had an excellent outcome in the 8 weeks follow up.
Conclusions Patients with recurrent stroke within 3 months may also benefit from IVT combined with TNK alone or as a bridging therapy before thrombectomy. Large-scale evidence-based clinical trials are indeed to re-examine the potential use of TNK in RIS.
A method for temperature sensor selection and model selection for machine tool thermal error modelling using ANFIS and ANN
Authors: Ariaga Nemwel , Longstaff Andrew , Fletcher Simon 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Thermal errors account for a significant part of the dimensional errors of components produced by precision machine tools. These errors are commonly compensated using predictions from temperature-based empirical models. The accuracy and robustness of these predictions are affected by the locations of temperature sensors used to obtain the model’s input data. Methods for sensor selection found in literature are often difficult to replicate and automate because they require tuning of several hyperparameters.
This work presents a sensor and model selection approach that uses Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and QR-pivoting to select a subset of sensors that have been preinstalled in the machine tool as possible model inputs. These sensors are then sorted according to their correlation with the thermally error being modelled. The final set of inputs and thermal error model structure is chosen using Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) to limit model overfitting. The approach is tested on modelling of Y-axis thermal errors of machining data from different air-cutting heating cycles performed using different spindle speeds and feed rates using Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models. The accuracy of these models was compared to that of models trained using inputs selected by conventional approaches: the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), fuzzy c-means clustering (FCM), and principal component regression (PCR). The presented approach had better or comparable results to the conventional approaches while using fewer inputs. The presented approach is also well suited for automation compared to conventional approaches that require expert input.
Securing China's Rice Harvest: Unveiling Dominant Factors in Production Using Multi- Source Data and Hybrid Machine Learning Models
Authors: Mokhtar Ali , He Hongming , Nabil Mohsen , Kouadri Saber , Salem Ali , Elbeltagi Ahmed 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Ensuring the security of China's rice harvest is imperative for sustainable food production. This study addresses this critical need by employing a comprehensive approach that integrates multi-source data, including climate, remote sensing, soil properties and statistical information. The research evaluates various single and hybrid machine learning models to predict rice production across China, particularly focusing on the main rice cultivation areas. The investigation identifies the hybrid models have performed better than single models, the best scenario was recorded in scenarios 8 (soil variables + SA) and 11 (All variables) based RF-XGB by decreasing the RMSE by 38% and 31% respectively in comparison with the single model (RF). Moreover, the soil properties contribute as the predominant factors influencing rice production, exerting an 87% and 53% impact in east and southeast China, respectively. Additionally, the study explores the implications of temperature and precipitation changes on rice production. Notably, it observes a yearly increase of 0.16°C and 0.19°C in maximum and minimum temperatures, coupled with a 20 mm/year decrease in precipitation. These climatic shifts contribute to a 2.2% annual reduction in rice production on average in southeast China. This research provides valuable insights into the dynamic interplay of environmental factors affecting China's rice yield, informing strategic measures to enhance food security in the face of evolving climatic conditions.
Combined Inhibition of PI3K and STAT3 Signaling is Effective in Bladder Cancer Treatment
Authors: Li Yang , Peng Weidong , Zhang Haojie , Yin Mingwei , Kong Dejie , Kang Liping , Teng Xinkun , Wang Jingjing , Chu Zhimin , Sun Yating , Long Pengpeng , Cui Chengying , Lyu Bin , Zhang Jinzhi , Xiao Han , Wu Mingqing , Wang Yongqiang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Bladder cancer is characterized by aberrant activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase (PI3K) signaling, underscoring the significance of directing therapeutic efforts toward the PI3K pathway as a promising strategy. In this study, we discovered that PI3K serves as a potent therapeutic target for bladder cancer through a high-throughput screening of inhibitory molecules. The PI3K inhibitor demonstrated a robust anti-tumor efficacy, validated both in vitro and in vivo settings. Nevertheless, the feedback activation of JAK1-STAT3 signaling reinstated cell and organoid survival, leading to resistance against the PI3K inhibitor. Mechanistically, the PI3K inhibitor suppresses PTPN11 expression, a negative regulator of the JAK-STAT pathway, thereby activating STAT3. Conversely, restoration of PTPN11 enhances the sensitivity of cancer cells to the PI3K inhibitor. Simultaneous inhibition of both PI3K and STAT3 with small-molecule inhibitors resulted in sustained tumor regression in patient-derived bladder cancer xenografts. These findings advocate for a combinational therapeutic approach targeting both PI3K and STAT3 pathways to achieve enduring cancer eradication in vitro and in vivo, underscoring their promising therapeutic efficacy for treating bladder cancer.
Sequence-matching adapter trimmers generate consistent quality and assembly metrics for Illumina sequencing of RNA viruses
Authors: Nabakooza Grace , Wagner Darlene D. , Momin Nehalraza , Marine Rachel L. , Weldon William C. , Oberste M. Steven 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Trimming adapters and low-quality bases from next-generation sequencing (NGS) data is crucial for optimal analysis. We evaluated six trimming programs, implementing five different algorithms, for their effectiveness in trimming adapters and improving quality, contig assembly, and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) quality and concordance for poliovirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SC2) and norovirus paired data sequenced on Illumina iSeq and MiSeq platforms.
Trimmomatic and BBDuk effectively removed adapters from all datasets, unlike FastP, AdapterRemoval, SeqPurge, and Skewer. All trimmers improved read quality (Q≥30, 87.8−96.1%) compared to raw reads (83.6−93.2%). Traditional sequence-matching (Trimmomatic and AdapterRemoval) and overlapping algorithm (FastP) retained the highest-quality reads. While all trimmers improved the maximum contig length and genome coverage for iSeq and MiSeq viral assemblies, BBDuk-trimmed reads assembled the shortest contigs. SNP concordance was consistently high (>97.7−100%) across trimmers. However, BBDuk-trimmed reads had the lowest quality SNPs. Overall, the two adapter trimmers that implemented the traditional sequence-matching algorithm performed consistently across the viral datasets analyzed. Our findings guide software selection and inform future versatile trimmer development for viral genome analysis.
A novel long intergenic noncoding RNA indispensable for the formation of zygote in pig
Authors: Weng Xiaogang , Yang Xu , zhang Yuting , Yang Yuchuan , Li Jingyu , Zong Ming , Cui Hongdi , Zhang Heng , Gao Zhengling , Kong Qingran , Liu Zhonghua 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly being recognized as modulators of mammalian early embryonic development. However, in pig, it is seldom investigated. In this study, lncRNAs were predicted using single-cell RNA-seq data on porcine early embryos from oocyte to early blastocyst. We further identified a novel nuclear long intergenic noncoding RNA (lincRNA),linc-321, which was specifically and highly expressed in 1-cell embryo, and it was indispensable for the formation of zygote and early embryonic development in pig. Its knockdown by locked nucleic acid (LNA)-siRNA could result in developmental arrest at 1-cell stage with failure of pronuclear envelope fusion (PEF). Mechanistically, linc-321 facilitates the recruitment of SUZ12 to the TSS region of MYT1. And this recruitment is instrumental in establishing H3K27me3 modifications, consequently leading to the repression of MYT1 expression. Moreover, the failure of PEF and developmental arrest induced by loss oflinc-321could be rescued by addition oflinc-321with LNA-siRNA targeting site deletion andMYT1knockdown. Thus, as functional lincRNA characterized in pig,linc-321provides the clues for investigating the strictly regulated process of early embryonic development.
Optimal Design of AM Support Structures for EDM Removal from Build Plate
Authors: Bicknell Greg , King Philip , Soares Nicholas , Gong Xi , Manogharan Guha 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Wire electric discharge machining (wire EDM) is a non-traditional material removal method that is commonly used in additive manufacturing (AM) applications to efficiently remove AM metallic parts from their build-plates. However, a persistent problem in wire EDM of AM parts is wire breakage which leads to longer machining time, challenges in rethreading wire, and wasted material, decreasing efficiency. This is the first reported study on wire EDM strategies to mitigate the two main causes of this issue in AM applications: intermittent workpiece thickness (i.e., support structures) and trapped metal powders. When AM metallic parts are made using a powder bed fusion (PBF) process, pockets of non-fused powder can become trapped in the part and supports. This powder creates a non-uniform cutting path which leads to wire breakage. Additionally, the interrupted cuts and nonuniform support thickness result in interactions between wire and AM support design that is currently not well understood. This study investigates the effects of various AM support structures on EDM wire breakage and overall machining time by understanding the effects of three critical EDM process parameters (voltage, wire feed rate, water flushing rate) on the machinability of 316L SS AM builds. In addition, the effect of heat treatment cycles on wire EDM machinability of AM parts with entrapped powder is investigated. The results of this study show that reducing the wire EDM voltage eliminates wire breaking, and that thicker supports provide steadier cutting conditions for the wire.
LAX1 as a Core Biomarker in Alzheimer's Disease and Periodontitis via the STAT signaling pathway
Authors: Guo Han , Guo Tianyuan , Wang Xue , Bao Yang , Xue Fang , Cheng Dongmei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background: Periodontitis, an inflammatory condition affecting gums and tooth-supporting tissues, is linked to systemic health problems like cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder causing cognitive decline. The etiology of both conditions remains unclear.
Methods: Download Alzheimer's datasets GSE138260 and GSE203206, and periodontitis datasets GSE53849 and GSE173078 from GEO. Utilize Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis to obtain Important modules. Conduct Gene Set Enrichment Analysis to explore biological processes and pathways associated with differentially expressed genes. Apply integrated bioinformatics methods to perform CIBERSORT analysis on merged periodontitis datasets and linear support vector regression for immune cell subtype deconvolution. Validate LAX1's role in periodontitis and Alzheimer's disease through cell experiments using LAX1 overexpression plasmids and silencing siRNA. Assess expression changes in LAX1-related signaling pathways, inflammatory molecules, and apoptosis proteins via western blotting (WB).
Results: GSEA results indicate enrichment of differentially expressed genes in apoptosis, neuroregulation, inflammation, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, and Jak-STAT signaling pathways. Venn diagram identifies core gene LAX1. Heatmap shows high expression of LAX1 in Alzheimer's and periodontitis samples. WB reveals LAX1 positively correlates with STAT pathway, activating it. Compared to Control group (CON), Glial cells from Alzheimer's disease mice (AD group) and periodontitis groups exhibit elevated IL-1, TNF-α, and IL-6, exacerbating inflammation with increased LAX1 expression. Conversely, inflammation decreases. This suggests LAX1 promotes inflammation. Compared to CON, AD and groups show downregulation of P53, Caspase-3, and FAS. Upregulation of LAX1 leads to increased expression of P53, Caspase-3, and FAS, promoting apoptosis. Conversely, apoptosis slows down. These results indicate LAX1 promotes apoptosis.
Conclusion: LAX1 may serve as a core biomarker in Alzheimer's disease and periodontitis. LAX1 activates the STAT signaling pathway, promoting inflammatory responses and apoptosis.