bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study on the Configuration Causal Factors of Electric power Generation Safety Incidents Based on Grounded Theory and fsQCA
Authors: Zhu Lin , Xiong Ke , Pang Min 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Electric power generation safety incidents can lead to severe consequences, including casualties and widespread power outages. Previous research has mainly focused on the mechanisms and causal relationships of accidents. However, these incidents result from multiple factors working together, lacking systematic analysis. This study examines 161 electric power generation safety incidents from 2015 to 2022, utilizing grounded theory for coding to construct a causal model. The derived model is used as a conditional variable for fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), with accident severity as the outcome variable. Forty-five cases are selected for assigning values, and R language and fsQCA software are integrated for univariate necessary condition analysis, followed by configurational analysis. Results show the grounded theory-derived causal model includes six factors: human unsafe behavior, equipment factors, enterprise safety management, on-site safety management, safety qualifications of personnel, and environmental factors. Necessary condition analysis indicates incidents result from multiple conditions. Configurational analysis identifies seven paths condensed into three types: management deficiency, low safety qualifications, and unsafe behavior. Recommendations are proposed for each type, discussing intrinsic connections between variables based on conditional variables in configurational paths. The aim is to reduce electric power generation safety incidents, ensure personnel safety, and guarantee continuous electricity supply.
Effect of Common Ions in Natural Water on the Generation of Trihalomethanes by Chlorination
Authors: Fu Shijun , Feng Yu , Zhang Dongdong , Long Xiaoxia , Ma Haixiang , Li Yonghui 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In the present study, the effect of common ions, such as Br-, NH4+, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe3+ and Al3+ in natural water on the generation of THMs in the process of chlorination has been investigated. The effect of Br- and NH4+ was significant while in the case of Na+ and K+ was not significant. Furthermore, divalent metal ions (Ca2+, Mg2+) and trivalent metal ions (Fe3+ and Al3+) have the ability to form complexes with humic acids. Thus, the trend of THMs generation was complicated in different conditions. It can be seen that Ca2+ ions had little effect on the formation of THMs. In contrast, the effect of Mg2+ was more obviously, showing a trend of decreasing first and then increasing. The effect of Fe3+ and Al3+ on THMs was similar to that of Mg2+, the concentration of THMs also showed a trend of decreasing firstly and then increasing.
Rapid breeding of an early maturing, high-quality, and high-yielding rice cultivar using marker‑assisted selection coupled with optimized anther culture
Authors: Chen Junxiao , Li Sanhe , Zhou Lei , Zha Wenjun , Xu Huashan , Liu Kai 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

With the global shift towards healthier eating habits, the focus of the rice industry has evolved from quantity to quality. In China, the Yangtze River Basin is the main area consuming long-grain and high-quality indica rice. Hubei Province, a significant rice-producing area, currently cultivates a limited range of rice varieties, risking degradation and diminishing economic returns. Therefore, it is imperative to cultivate elite rice varieties tailored to the local production conditions and can significantly enhance the added value. This study bred the novel rice cultivar “Runxiangyu”, characterized by early maturity, high quality, and high yield. It is a hybrid of Ezhong 5, known for its moderate height and excellent quality, albeit with a long growth period and lack of fragrance, and Yuzhenxiang, renowned for its high quality, short growth period, and fragrance but limited by its tall stature and poor tillering ability. The breeding process utilized optimized anther culture coupled with molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS) and phenotype analysis. In the field, the developed cultivar was 120.9 cm tall and had an entire growth period of 117.5 days, demonstrating moderate disease resistance and excellent heat tolerance. Its grains are fragrant, meeting the national standard of grade two high-quality rice set by the Food Quality Supervision and Inspection Center of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Areas). Exhibiting superior agronomic traits, such as plant type, height, growth period, and stress resistance, along with and quality attributes, including grain shape, chalkiness, fragrance, and taste, “Runxiangyu” was certified by the Agricultural Crop Variety Certification Commission of Hubei in 2022. These findings suggested that molecular MAS coupled with optimized anther culture and multi-site phenotype analysis is an efficient and rapid method for crop breeding.
Indirect comparison of finerenone and SGLT 2 inhibitors in established chronic kidney disease: evidence based on Bayesian methods
Authors: Chen Hai-Bin , Li Dong-Yi , Meng Rong-Sen , Yang Yao-Lin , Yu Tian-Hao 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Head-to-head comparison of finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with established chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains absent.
Methods and results
All dedicated CKD trials about finerenone versus placebo or SGLT2 inhibitors versus placebo were searched. A Bayesian approach to network meta-analysis was applied. In patients with CKD, no significant difference in the composite of renal outcomes (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.92–1.88), the composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.58–1.56), all-cause mortality (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.78–1.43), and cardiovascular death (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.73–1.35) was observed between finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors. In patients with type 2 diabetes and CKD, no significant difference in the composite of renal outcomes (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.50–1.69), the composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.48–1.62), all-cause mortality (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.74–1.28), and cardiovascular death (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.65–1.38) was observed between finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors. We ranked the risk of the major outcomes in patients with CKD. As a result, dapagliflozin was identified as having the lowest risk of renal outcomes and all-cause mortality, while canagliflozin was identified as having the lowest risk of cardiovascular outcomes.
Conclusions
In patients with CKD, there was no significant difference in the major outcomes between finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors; however, dapagliflozin and canagliflozin may be associated with the lowest risk of the major outcomes.
Sildenafil Citrate Induces Prostatic Hyperplasia in BPH Model Rats and Aged Rats
Authors: Huang Sisi , Huang Dongyan , Su Xin , Yang Rongfu , Shao Congcong , Jiang Juan , Li Jun , Wu Jianhui 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED), a prevalent disease among middle-aged and elderly males, significantly impacts both patient and partner quality of life. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5i) represents an effective therapeutic method for ED. Given their widespread global utilization, concerns arise regarding potential reproduction-related problems arising from clinical use. During the extensive development of PDE5i, we speculated that the potential of these inhibitors to variably induce prostatic hyperplasia, but this field remains unexplored. In order to verify the male reproductive toxicity of PDE5i, sildenafil citrate at doses of 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg was administered in BPH model rats and aged rats. Anatomical and pathological analyses indicate a compelling association between sildenafil citrate administration and the promotion of prostatic hyperplasia in both BPH model rats and aged rats. Serum analyses revealed a notable increase in serum prostate binding protein (PBP) in BPH model rats following sildenafil citrate administration. Furthermore, significant increase in serum levels of E2 and T, as well as T in dorsal lobe prostate tissue of aged rats, were observed compared to the model control group. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) microarray demonstrated that sildenafil citrate upregulated Fgfb1 and Tmeff1 within the EMT signaling pathway of the dorsal lobe prostate in BPH model rats, concurrently down-regulating Itga5, Versican and Vimentin. These results confirm the hypothesis that sildenafil citrate has reproductive toxicity in males and suggest that the EMT signaling pathway has a potential role in the proliferation of the dorsal lobe prostate in BPH model rats.
Real-life use of ropeg-interferon α2b in Polycythemia Vera: patient selection and clinical outcomes
Authors: Palandri Francesca , Branzanti Filippo , Venturi Marta , Dedola Alessandra , Fontana Gabriele , Loffredo Michele , Patuelli Agnese , Ottaviani Emanuela , Bersani Marco , Reta Massimo , Addimanda Olga , Vicennati Valentina , Vianelli Nicola , Cavo Michele 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background

Ropeginterferon-alfa2b (ropegIFNα2b) is a long-acting IFN formulation with broad FDA/EMA approval as a therapy of polycythemia vera (PV) with no symptomatic splenomegaly.
There is currently lack of information on the real-world patient selection, including the impact of local reimbursement policies, and drug management, particularly: type/timing of screening and follow-up tests; absolute/relative contraindications to therapy; ropegIFNα2b dose and combinations with hydroxyurea.

Methods

As a sub-analysis of the PV-ARC retrospective study (NCT06134102), we here report our monocenter experience with ropegIFNα2b in the period from January 2021, corresponding to drug availability outside clinical trial, and December 2023.

Results

Among the 149 patients with EMA/FDA indication, only 55 (36.9%) met the local reimbursement criteria and 18 (12.1%) received ropegIFNα2b. Thanks to appropriate screening, relative/absolute contraindications to ropegIFNα2b were detected and managed in a multidisciplinary manner. Efficacy and safety of ropegIFNα2b was confirmed, with 3 cases of early molecular response. General use of low ropegIFNα2b dose, with frequent need for hydroxyurea combinations, was noted.

Conclusions

This real-world experience suggests a significant impact of local regulations on drug prescription and the need for greater real-world data collection on ropegIFNα2b in PV patients. Also, it describes appropriate multidisciplinary screening and monitoring procedures during ropegIFNα2b therapy.
Effects of three prophylactic interventions on French middle-schoolers' mental health: protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vaillant-Coindard Eugénie , Briet Gaëtan , Lespiau Florence , Gisclard Béatrice , Charbonnier Elodie 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Adolescence is a strategic developmental stage in terms of preventing later difficulties and ensuring good mental health. Prophylactic interventions, which are conducted before the onset, prolongation, or worsening of difficulties, and aim to prevent or reduce symptoms or to promote wellbeing, therefore appear particularly appropriate for adolescents. However, existing prophylactic interventions conducted with adolescents have several weaknesses, including sparse theoretical frameworks, ambivalent evidence of their efficacy, and implementation and dissemination difficulties. In addition, no data are currently available on the effectiveness of such interventions in France. To fill this gap, a four-arm randomized controlled trial will be performed to assess the effectiveness of three prophylactic interventions targeting reactive, proactive and interpersonal adaptation in fourth-grade middle-school students, together with participants’ experience and perception of the interventions. Based on existing knowledge about adolescents, their learning mechanisms, and field constraints, these three interventions have been designed to promote their learning and receptiveness to interventions. Compared with baseline (i.e., before the intervention), we expect to observe a significant decrease in the level of distress (anxiety and depressive symptoms, functional impairment, and psychosocial difficulties) and a significant increase in the level of wellbeing after the intervention, across the three intervention groups, but not in the control group. In addition, we expect to observe post-intervention improvements in the processes targeted by the reactive adaptation intervention (operationalized as coping strategy use and flexibility), those targeted by the proactive adaptation intervention (operationalized as the tendency to engage in committed actions and general self-efficacy), and those targeted by the interpersonal adaptation intervention (operationalized as assertiveness in interactions), but only in the corresponding groups, with no change in any of these processes in the control group. The results of this research will not only enrich our knowledge of the processes involved in adolescents’ distress and wellbeing, but also provide clues as to the best targets for intervention. Moreover, the material for these interventions will be freely available in French on request to the corresponding author, providing access to innovative and fully assessed interventions aimed at promoting adolescents’ mental health in France. This clinical trial is currently being registered under no. 2023-A01973-42 on https://ansm.sante.fr/. This is the first version of the protocol.
Coral-seeding devices with fish-exclusion features reduce mortality on the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Whitman Taylor Nicole , Hoogenboom Mia , Negri Andrew , Randall Carly 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Restoration methods that seed juvenile corals show promise as scalable interventions to promote population persistence through anthropogenic warming. However, challenges including predation by fishes can threaten coral survival. Coral-seeding devices with refugia from fishes offer potential solutions to limit predation-driven mortality. In an 8-month field study, we assessed the efficacy of such devices for increasing the survival of captive-reared Acropora digitifera (spat and microfragments) over control devices (featureless and caged). Devices with fish-exclusion features demonstrated a 2-fold increase in coral survival, while most corals seeded without protection suffered mortality within 48 hours. Overall, spat faced more grazing and higher mortality compared to microfragments, and upward-facing corals were more vulnerable than side-facing corals. Grazing-induced mortality varied by site, with lower activity in locations abundant in mat-forming cyanobacteria or Scleractinian corals. Many scraping parrotfish were found feeding on or near the seeded corals; however, bites by Scarus globiceps explained the most site-related variation in grazing. Cyanobacteria may be preferred over corals as a nutritional resource for scraping parrotfish—advancing our understanding of their foraging ecology. Incorporating side-facing refugia in seeding devices and deploying to sites with nutrient-rich food sources for fish are potential strategies to enhance coral survival in restoration programs.
TransU2Net: A Hybrid Network for Retinal Layer Segmentation in OCT
Authors: Zhu Zhean , Chen Yiwei , Shi Guohua , He Yi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The retina, a transparent membrane at the eye’s back, is crucial for capturing light signals. OCT provides a non-invasive method for high-resolution imaging of these layers. Its complex, uneven structure, along with OCT imaging low contrast and noise, complicates segmentation for clinical or research applications. Different eye diseases variably affect retinal layers. This paper introduces TransU2Net, a hybrid network for retinal layer segmentation in OCT images. TransU2Net combines U2-Net and Transformer architectures, utilizing U2Net_Half Encoder for feature extraction and a Transformer module to capture global and local features. Additionally, the model incorporates a Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) in its decoder to enhance its performance. We conducted ablation experiments on our collected dataset to demonstrate the respective roles of U2Net_Half_Encoder and CBAM in the encoding and decoding processes. Subsequently, we compared the TransU2Net with other state-of-the-art (SOTA) models. On the private dataset, the average Dice and IoU achieved 91.64% and 84.80%. On the Duke OCT dataset, the average Dice achieved 84.80%, surpassing other SOTA models in both datasets.
CRISPR/Cas9-engineering of Kell null erythrocytes to unveil host targeted irresistible antimalarial
Authors: Singh Shailja , Kumari Geeta , Gupta Pragya , Goswami Sangam , Jain Ravi , Anand Sakshi , Biswas Shreeja , Garg Swati , Thakur Priya , Saravanakumar Vinodh , Goswami Bidhan , Bhowmick Ipshita , Mohandas Narla , Burrows Jeremy , Ramalingam Sivaprakash 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Malaria elimination faces challenges from drug resistance, stemming from mutations within the parasite's genetic makeup. Genetic adaptations in key erythrocyte proteins offer malaria protection in endemic regions. Emulating nature's approach, and implementing methodologies to render indispensable host proteins inactive, holds the potential to reshape antimalarial therapy. This study delves into the functional implication of the single-span membrane protein Kell ectodomain, which shares consensus sequence with the zinc endopeptidase family, possesses extracellular enzyme activity crucial for parasite invasion into host erythrocytes. Through generating Kell-null erythrocytes from an erythroid progenitor, BEL-A, we demonstrate the indispensable nature of Kell activity in P. falciparum invasion. Additionally, thiorphan, a metallo-endopeptidase inhibitor, which specifically inhibits Kell activity, inhibited Plasmodium infection at nanomolar concentrations. Interestingly, individuals in malaria-endemic regions exhibit low Kell expression and activity, indicating a plausible Plasmodium-induced evolutionary pressure. Both thiorphan and its prodrug racecadotril, demonstrated potent antimalarial activity in vivo, highlighting Kell's protease role in invasion and proposing thiorphan as a promising host-oriented antimalarial therapeutic.
Race Against Time: A Conversation Analysis of Ambulance Doctors’ Strategies
Authors: Tian Yinong , Ma Jizhi , Li Xin , Su Yonggang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective:
Emergency nursing is one of the most challenging and understaffed areas of professional nursing. This study looks at the ambulance doctors’ strategies towards emergency decision making.
Methods:
A multi-modal conversation analysis study in a comprehensive 3A hospital is carried out. 27 video recordings are identified, involving 27 patients, 45 patients’ relatives, 40 emergency doctors, and 20 ambulance drivers.
Results:
Based on the analysis of doctor-patient-relative interaction, we conclude that a series of multi modal strategies adopted by ambulance doctors for emergency nursing practices. In terms of patient transfer, a comfortable transfer condition could be better presented with interruption avoidance and cushion sequences. As for the patient evaluation, the utilization of embodied resources along with the relatives’ participation serves a strategy. The flow of handover teamwork requires collaboration and coordination among participants in a calm, concise, and incredibly logical way.
Conclusion:
This study furthers our understanding of ambulance doctors’ strategies in emergency nursing by analyzing the decision making dilemma in which ambulance doctors communicate with patients’ relatives and other emergency departments.
Practice implications:
Further research could find strength from a larger number of emergency interactions.
Dapagliflozin Improves Skeletal Muscle Insulin Sensitivity through SIRT1 activation Induced by Nutrient Deprivation State
Authors: Gao Qi , Jiang Yingying , Song Zhenqiang , Ren Huizhu , Kong Yan , Wang Cong , Zheng Miaoyan , Shan Chunyan , Yang Yanhui 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial damage impair insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) protects mitochondria and activates under energy restriction. This study investigates whether dapagliflozin (Dapa) can trigger nutrient deprivation to activate SIRT1 and enhance insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. We treated diet-induced obese (DIO) mice with Dapa and measured metabolic parameters, lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and glucose utilization in skeletal muscle. Ketogenesis is the most important feature of the nutrient deprivation state, so β-hydroxybutyric acid (β-HB) administration was used in C2C12 myotubes to verify the effect. The role of SIRT1 was verified by RNA interference. We found that the Dapa-induced nutrient deprivation state was characterized by increased lipolysis, urinary glucose excretion, ketogenesis. What’s more, Dapa treatment reduced lipid deposition and oxidative stress, improved mitochondrial function and glucose tolerance in skeletal muscle. The same positive effects were observed after β-HB intervening for C2C12 myotubes, and the promoting effects on glucose utilization were diminished by SIRT1 RNA interference. Thus, Dapa promotes a nutrient deprivation state and enhances skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity via SIRT1 activation. In this study, we identified a novel hypoglycemic mechanism of Dapa and the potential mechanistic targets.
Use of an intermediate cervical plexus block in carotid endarterectomy –an alternative to deep cervical plexus block: A case series
Authors: Ratnayake Ashani , Abeysundara Anura , Samarasinghe Bandula , Rathnayake Jeewantha , Samarasinghe Senani , Perera Rochana , Bandara Chamoda 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Carotid endarterectomy is performed for patients with symptomatic carotid artery occlusions. Surgery can be performed under general and regional anesthesia. Regional anesthesia is preferable in patients who are medically complicated to undergo anesthesia or in patients for whom cerebral monitoring is not available. Traditionally, surgery is performed under deep cervical plexus block which is technically difficult to perform and can cause serious complications. This case series describes 5 cases in which an intermediate cervical plexus block was used in combination with a superficial cervical plexus block for Carotid endarterectomy surgery.
Case presentation
Five patients who were classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists 2–3 were scheduled for Carotid endarterectomy due to symptoms and more than 70% occlusion of the carotid arteries. All patients were given superficial cervical plexus block followed by intermediate cervical plexus block using 2% lignocaine and 0.5% plain bupivacaine. Adequate anesthesia was achieved in 4 patients, and local infiltration was necessary in 1 patient. Two patients developed hoarseness of the voice, which settled 2 hours after surgery. Hemodynamic fluctuations were observed in all 5 patients. No serious complications were observed. All 5 patients had uneventful recoveries.
Conclusions
Superficial cervical plexus block and intermediate cervical plexus block can be used effectively for providing anesthesia for patients undergoing Carotid endarterectomy. It is safe and easier to conduct than deep cervical plexus block and enables monitoring of cerebral function.