bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wood density of 38 Dalbergia and 29 Diospyros malagasy species and its relationship with climate and tree diameter
Authors: Raobelina Andry Clarel , Leban Jean Michel , Jaozandry Caroline Christina , Ramananantoandro Tahiana 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Several Malagasy Dalbergia and Diospyros species are highly valued, especially in the furniture industry due to their desirable wood properties. However, there remains a lack of understanding regarding the wood technological properties of many species within these genera, hindering their effective utilization. This study aimed to adress this gap by assessing the wood density of 38 Dalbergia and 29 Diospyros species, their radial wood density variation, and the influence of climate and tree size. Wood density measurements were conducted on 297 wood cores using X-ray computed tomography. One-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate between-genus, between-species, and between-trees density variations. To compare the radial density profile of cores of different length, each analyzed core was divided into 10 segments of equal length. For species that show significant differences in mean density along the segments, the radial density trend was evaluated through correlation tests between the average density of each segment and its distance from the pith. Correlation test was also conducted to evaluate the relationship between tree diameter, climatic data, and density. Diospyros genus (1.070 ± 0.165 g∙cm-3) have significantly denser heartwood compared to Dalbergia (0.961 ± 0.142 g∙cm-3). Furthermore, eleven groups of Dalbergia and seven groups of Diospyros, each with significantly different heartwood density value ranges, were identified. While the radial wood density profile varied among species, a decreasing trend was observed in most analyzed species. Wood density increases with rising temperature and decreasing precipitation at the tree's growth site. Tree diameter does not influence the wood density.
Clinical Significance of LncRNAs SOX2-OT and NEAT1 in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kumar Rajiv Ranjan , Mohanta Adrija , Rana Manjit Kaur , uttam Vivek , Tuli Hardeep Singh , Jain Aklank 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Despite strides in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for ESCC, patient survival rates remain relatively low. Recent studies highlight the pivotal role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in regulating diverse cellular activities in humans. Dysregulated lncRNAs have emerged as potential diagnostic indicators across various cancers, including ESCC. However, further research is necessary to effectively leverage ESCC-associated lncRNAs in clinical settings. Understanding their clinical significance for ESCC diagnosis and their mechanisms can pave the way for more effective therapeutic strategies. Our qRT-PCR observations indicated significant downregulation of SOX2-OT and NEAT1 in ESCC blood samples (SOX2-OT down by ~ 2.02-fold and NEAT1 down by ~ 1.53-fold). The decreased expression of SOX2-OT and NEAT1 shows promise in differentiating ESCC patients from healthy individuals, as demonstrated by Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curves and Area Under the Curve (AUC) values (AUC: SOX2-OT = 0.736, NEAT1 = 0.621) for ESCC diagnosis. Subsequent investigations explored the relationship between aberrant SOX2-OT and NEAT1 expression in ESCC patients and various clinicopathological features, including age, gender, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, hot beverage intake, tumor grade, and TNM stages. In-depth in-silico analysis unveiled the involvement of SOX2-OT and NEAT1 in miRNA sponging through the mTOR and MAPK pathways. In contrast, co-expression network analysis identified genes co-expressed with these lncRNA targets. This groundwork lays the foundation for future endeavours aimed at identifying and predicting ESCC prognosis by leveraging SOX2-OT and NEAT1. By thoroughly investigating the functions of these lncRNAs, we aim to deepen our understanding of their potential as diagnostic markers and their role in facilitating effective therapeutic interventions for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) within clinical contexts.
The Impact of Relaxing the Requirements for Dyspeptic Symptom Onset Frequency or Duration in Rome IV Criteria on the Symptom Pattern and Diagnosis of Functional Dyspepsia
Authors: Wang Jinsheng , Wu Junhao , Hou Xiaohua , Zhang Lei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
The Rome IV criteriafor functional dyspepsia (FD) has strict requirements for symptom frequency and onset duration, making it challenging to identify patients with broadly defined FD in clinical practice. This study aimed to investigate the impact of relaxing the Rome IV criteria on the diagnosis and symptom pattern of FD.
Methods
A cross-sectional, multi-center study was conducted involving 2935 consecutive broadly defined FD patients with no positive findings on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and routine examinations. Questionnaires were used to collect demographic and upper gastrointestinal symptom data. Symptom pattern was compared between Rome IV criteria defined FD patients and those defined by relaxed Rome IV criteria.
Results
Only 22.2% of broadly defined FD patients rigorously fulfilled Rome IV criteria. No significant difference was found for proportion of patients with dyspeptic symptoms, dysmotility-like symptoms, reflux-like symptoms, as well as severity and onset frequency of dyspeptic symptoms (all P>0.05), between broadly defined FD who fulfilled Rome IV criteria but had a duration of 3-6 months and Rome IV criteria defined FD. Broadly defined Postprandial Distress Syndrome (PDS) patients who fulfilled the Rome IV criteria but had a symptom frequency of 1-2 days per week had significantly lower symptom severity (P<0.001), but similar postprandial symptom characteristics compared to those defined by the Rome IV criteria.
Conclusions
A symptom duration criterion of 3 months may be sufficient for diagnosing FD. Reducing the symptom onset frequency to no less than 1 day per week in the Rome IV criteria for PDS does not affect its postprandial symptom characteristics.
Leveraging AI Hyperparameters for Enhanced Security in Triplestore Databases: A Comprehensive Analysis of Deployment and Delivery Models
Authors: Henchiri Mourad , Wani Sharyar 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Leveraging ameliorated AI hyperparameters introduces a multifaceted research landscape that enhances the fundamental principles of optimization and security in triplestore databases. Yet, the implementation should align with the characteristics and requirements of triplestore technology. xVelocity and .NET Security can be implemented in Triplestore Databases to optimize performance and ensure security. The integration of xVelocity technology, which is known for its in-memory data compression and columnstore indexing capabilities, can enhance query performance in Triplestore Databases. Additionally, .NET Security measures can be applied to safeguard the database environment, ensuring secure data access and preventing potential vulnerabilities. Combining these technologies contributes to a robust and efficient Triplestore Database system. This research addresses key challenges associated with dynamic optimization strategies optimizing query performance, enhancing security measures, and integrating machine learning models within triplestore environments. Security considerations involve AI-driven access controls, anomaly detection, and ethical AI usage, ensuring dynamic and context-aware security policies. The research delves into machine learning model integration, focusing on model explainability, real-time updates, and the seamless interoperability of AI modules with triplestore databases.
A countermovement jump with an arm swing is defined by four functional degrees of freedom and an enhanced proximal-to-distal delay.
Authors: Cefai Christina M. , Shaw Joseph W. , Cushion Emily J. , Cleather Daniel J. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

An abundance of degrees of freedom (DOF) exist when executing a countermovement jump (CMJ). This research aims to simplify the understanding of this complex system by comparing jump performance and independent functional DOF (fDOF) present in CMJs without (CMJNoArms) and with (CMJArms) an arm swing. Principal component analysis was used on 39 muscle forces and 15 3-dimensional joint contact forces obtained from kinematic and kinetic data, analyzed in FreeBody (a segment-based musculoskeletal model). Jump performance was greater in CMJArms with the increased ground contact time resulting in higher external (p = .012), hip (p < .001) and ankle (p = .009) vertical impulses, and slower hip extension enhancing the proximal-to-distal joint extension strategy. This allowed the hip muscles to generate higher forces and greater time-normalized hip vertical impulse (p = .006). Three fDOF were found for the muscle forces and 3-dimensional joint contact forces during CMJNoArms, while four fDOF were present for CMJArms. This suggests that the underlying anatomy provides mechanical constraints during a CMJ, reducing the demand on the control system. The additional fDOF present in CMJArms suggests that the arms are not mechanically coupled with the lower extremity, resulting in additional variation within individual motor strategies.
Morphometric analysis of the sperm midpiece during capacitation
Authors: Skowronek Maria Fernanda , Pietroroia Santiago , Silvera Diego , Ford Mariana , Cassina Adriana , Lecumberry Federico , Sapiro Rossana 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
In mammalian sperm, mitochondria are very densely packed and form a helical sheath located in the midpiece of the flagellum. Mitochondria play multiple roles in the cell and can rapidly change shape to adapt to environmental conditions. During capacitation, mammalian spermatozoa undergo morphological and physiological changes to acquire fertilization ability. This is evidenced by changes in sperm motility patterns (hyperactivation) and the ability to perform the acrosome reaction. Whether there are changes in sperm mitochondrial shape or dimensions during capacitation is unknown. This work aimed to quantify morphometric changes in the sperm midpiece during capacitation based on computational analysis and image processing.
Results
Using mitochondrial fluorescent probes and a combination of freely available software, we quantified the dimensions and fluorescence intensity of the midpiece of the sperm flagellum. After capacitation, the area occupied by the mitochondria decreased. This decrease was due to a reduction in the width but not the length of the midpiece. A reduction in the area and width of the midpiece occurred in spermatozoa that underwent the acrosome reaction, suggesting a shrinkage of the mitochondria during the process of capacitation.
Conclusion
These results suggest that the flagellar structure is remodeled during sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction, which is consistent with the observed changes in mitochondrial organization. The application of image processing to fluorescence microscopy images may help to identify morphological changes during capacitation.
Decomposition of a complex motor skill in learning improves experts' expertise
Authors: Kimoto Yudai , Hirano Masato , Furuya Shinichi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Complex motor skills involve intricate sequences of movements that require precise temporal coordination across multiple body parts, posing challenges to mastery based on perceived error or reward. One approach that has been widely used is to decompose such skills into simpler, constituent movement elements during the learning process, thereby aligning the task complexity with the learners' capacity for accurate execution. Despite common belief and prevalent adoption, the effectiveness of this method remains elusive. Here we addressed this issue by decomposing a sequence of precisely timed coordination of movements across multiple fingers into individual constituent elements separately during piano practice. The results demonstrated that the decomposition training enhanced the accuracy of the original motor skill, a benefit not achieved through mere repetition of movements alone, specifically when skilled pianists received explicit visual feedback on timing error in the order of milliseconds during training. During the training, the patterns of multi-finger movements changed significantly, suggesting exploration of movements to refine the skill. By contrast, neither unskilled pianists who underwent the same training nor skilled pianists who performed the decomposition training without receiving visual feedback on the error showed improved skill through training. These findings offer novel evidences suggesting that decomposing a complex motor skill, coupled with receiving feedback on subtle movement error during training, further enhances motor expertise of skilled individuals by facilitating exploratory refinement of movements.
Parameter identification of solar cell model based on improved northern goshawk optimization algorithm
Authors: Xiao Wenbo , Zhou Heng , Wu Huaming , Li Yongbo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this study, an improved northern goshawk optimization algorithm called SR-NGO is developed to solve the parameter identification problem of the Single Diode Model (SDM), Double Diode Model (DDM), and Triple Diode Model (TDM). Compared to the NGO algorithm, the SR-NGO algorithm reduces the minimum, maximum, mean, and standard deviation values of the root mean square error between experimental I-V data and the SDM(DDM, TDM) fitting data by 0.0004284% (0.2542%, 0.2034%), 1.1094% (3.7313%, 6.0740%), 0.05106% (0.6901%, 1.0699%), and 99.9999% (88.1540%, 94.0600%), respectively. Furthermore, the SR-NGO algorithm exhibits higher accuracy, faster convergence speed, and stronger stability compared to other existing algorithms. These results demonstrate that the SR-NGO algorithm, which combines the sine cosine guiding mechanism and random learning mechanism, enhances both local and global search capabilities, thereby improving the ability to escape local optima.
A multimodal cross-species comparison of pancreas development
Authors: Lickert Heiko , Yang Kaiyuan , Spitzer Hannah , Sterr Michael , Hrovatin Karin , O Sean de la , Zhang Xinghao , Setyono Eunike , Ud-Dean Minhaz , Walzthoeni Thomas , Flisikowski Krzysztof , Flisikowska Tatiana , Schnieke Angelika , Scheibner Katharina , Wells James , Sneddon Julie , Kessler Barbara , Wolf Eckhard , Kemter Elisabeth , Theis Fabian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Human pancreas development remains incompletely understood due to limited sample access constrained by ethical and practical considerations. Here we investigate whether pigs resemble humans in pancreas development more closely than rodents, and as such, offer a valuable alternative large-animal model. As pig pancreas organogenesis is unexplored, we first annotated developmental hallmarks and lineage markers of pancreas differentiation and morphogenesis throughout the 114-day gestation. Building on this detailed roadmap, we further constructed a pig single-cell multiome pancreas atlas capturing temporal resolution across all three trimesters. Cross-species comparisons with human and mouse time-resolved integrated pancreas atlases accentuated that pig closely resembled human in developmental tempo, epigenetic and transcriptional regulation, gene expression patterns and gene regulatory networks (GRNs). Specifically, pig mimicked the dynamics of progenitor status, differentiation trajectories and GRNs governing endocrine fate acquisition in human. In pig multiome GRN, over 40% of transcription factors targeted by NEUROG3, the endocrine master regulator, were confirmed in human stem cell models. Most notably, we uncovered beta-cell heterogeneity arising during embryonic development, owing to endocrine induction in pancreatic progenitors with temporally altered epigenetic and transcriptional identity. Overall, our work lays the foundation for using pigs to model human pancreas biology and provides unprecedented insights into developmental principles and mechanisms across species.
Lassa virus persistence with high viral titers following experimental infection in its natural reservoir host, Mastomys natalensis
Authors: Hoffmann Chris , Krasemann Susanne , Wurr Stephanie , Hartmann Kristin , Pallasch Elisa , Bockholt Sabrina , Müller Jonas , Günther Stephan , Oestereich Lisa 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Lassa virus (LASV) outbreaks in West Africa pose a significant public health threat. We investigated the infection phenotype and transmission (horizontal and vertical) of LASV strain Ba366 in its natural host, Mastomys natalensis. Viral RNA levels in body fluids, virus titers in organs and antibody presence in blood were analyzed. In adults and 2-week-old animals, LASV caused transient infections with subsequent seroconversion. However, neonates and younger juveniles exhibited persistent infections lasting up to 16 months despite antibody presence. LASV was detected in various body fluids, organs, and cell types, primarily in lung, kidney, and gonadal epithelial cells. Despite the systemic virus presence, no pathological alterations in organs were observed. Infected individuals efficiently transmitted the virus throughout their lives. Our findings underscore the crucial role of persistently infected individuals, particularly infected females and their progeny, in LASV dissemination within the host population.
Sex differences in brain cell-type specific chromatin accessibility in schizophrenia
Authors: Roussos Panos , Ma Yixuan , Girdhar Kiran , Hoffman Gabriel , Fullard John , Bendl Jaroslav 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Our understanding of the sex-specific role of the non-coding genome in serious mental illness remains largely incomplete. To address this gap, we explored sex differences in 1,393 chromatin accessibility profiles, derived from neuronal and non-neuronal nuclei of two distinct cortical regions from 234 cases with serious mental illness and 235 controls. We identified sex-specific enhancer-promoter interactions and showed that they regulate genes involved in X-chromosome inactivation (XCI). Examining chromosomal conformation allowed us to identify sex-specific cis- and trans-regulatory domains (CRDs and TRDs). Co-localization of sex-specific TRDs with schizophrenia common risk variants pinpointed male-specific regulatory regions controlling a number of metabolic pathways. Additionally, enhancers from female-specific TRDs were found to regulate two genes known to escape XCI, (XIST and JPX), underlying the importance of TRDs in deciphering sex differences in schizophrenia. Overall, these findings provide extensive characterization of sex differences in the brain epigenome and disease-associated regulomes.
Multiple-Stimuli Fluorescent Responsive Metallo-Organic Helicated Cage Arising from Monomer and Excimer Emission
Authors: Wang Pingshan , zhang zhe , Bai Qixia , Zhai Zirui , Long Qingwu , Han Ermeng , Zhao He , Zhou Chuang-Wei , Lin Haobo , Zhang Wei , Ning Guo-Hong , Xie Ting-Zheng , Wu Tun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Effectively controlling monomer and excimer emission in a singular luminous platform is challenging due to their highly stable structures in solution, solid, or doped states when subjected to external stimuli. This study presents a metallo-cage (MTH) featuring a triple helical motif that displays a unique dual emission. This emission arises from both intramolecular monomer and intermolecular excimer, respectively. The distorted molecular conformation of MTH and the staggered stacking mode for MTH excimer were verified through single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. These structural features facilitate the switch between monomer and excimer emission, which is induced by changes in concentration and temperature. Significantly, adjusting the equilibrium between these two states in MTH enables the production of vibrant white light emission in both solution and solid state. Moreover, when combined with a PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) solution, the resulting thin films can serve as straightforward fluorescence thermometer and materials for thermally activated information encryption.
Combined titanium-steel structures formation by directed energy deposition using vanadium and nickel interlayers
Authors: Terentyev Egor V. , Borodavkina Ksenia T. , Kozyrev Khariton M. , Shishkin Dmitriy V. , Sliva Andrey P. , Goncharov Aleksey L. , Gudenko Aleksandr V. , Zhgut Daria A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The possibility of obtaining a combined titanium-steel construction by directed energy deposition using vanadium or vanadium/nickel interlayers. Vanadium wire VnPr-1, nickel wire NP1 grade and welding wires Sv-08G2S, 316L, MSG NiFe-1 grades were used for deposition on the end of the titanium plate VT1-0. The use of vanadium as an interlayer deposited on titanium makes it possible to provide a joining with a stable structure, steady hardness distribution and acceptable manufacturability. The content of dissolved titanium in the vanadium layer negatively influence on the subsequent deposition of steel, nickel or iron-nickel alloy. Therefore, the titanium content was reduced to the level of ˂0.5% by deposition at least 4 vanadium beads. The results of tensile tests showed that all specimens failed in the elastic section mostly along the interlayers between vanadium and subsequent layers of low-carbon steel, nickel and iron-nickel alloys deposited on it. The only specimen was destroyed along the titanium-vanadium interlayer probably due to brittle ω–phase formation.
Assessing the antitumor effects of metformin on ovarian clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Takemori Satoshi , Morisada Tohru , Osaka Makoto , Watanabe Momoe , Tajima Atsushi , Tanigaki Shinji , Kobayashi Yoichi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Developing novel therapies that outperform the existing chemotherapeutic treatments is required for treatment-resistant ovarian clear cell carcinoma. We investigated the antitumor effect of metformin on ovarian clear cell carcinoma, enhancement of the antitumor effect by its combination with chemotherapy, and its molecular regulatory mechanism. First, we evaluated the viability of ovarian clear cell carcinoma lines using the water-soluble tetrazolium-1 assay and found that metformin suppressed cell viability. Cell viability was significantly suppressed by co-treatment with cisplatin and metformin. In contrast, co-treatment with paclitaxel and metformin showed no significant difference in viability compared with the group without metformin. Western blot analysis showed increased phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase and suppressed phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin. Flow cytometry analysis revealed a significant increase in the rate of apoptosis in the metformin-treated group and rate of cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. These results indicated that metformin may be effective against cultured ovarian clear cell carcinoma cells, particularly in combination with cisplatin.