bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of ultrasonic, hotplate and microwave assisted digestion methods for the assessment of metals in agricultural soil: Environmental contamination and human health risk
Authors: Naicker K. , Mahlambi P. N. , Mahlambi MM 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This study presents the comparison of microwave assisted, hotplate and ultrasonic digestion methods for the analysis of metals in agricultural soils prior to ICP-OES determination. The percentage recoveries for all methods were within the acceptable range of 70–120% indicating that they can all be used for accurate determination of the target metals. However, hotplate can be recommended as it does not use too high pressure and temperature which can degrade analytes and it is easily accessible. On the hand, microwave require expensive instrument and thus its accessibility may be limited in other laboratories while ultrasonic is susceptible to underestimation of sample concentration due to incomplete digestion especially for complex samples as it uses lower temperatures. The metal concentrations obtained ranged from 0.60–256.4 mg/kg, however, all the metals were below the maximum permissible limits in soil except for Cr. The contamination factor and geo-accumulation index showed that the soil samples were mainly contaminated with Cu. The human health risk assessed indicated that dermal contact was the major exposure pathway in adults and children and children were more susceptible to non-carcinogenic risks. Although metal contamination in this study was not severe, consideration and monitoring of potential pollution hazards and human health risks in the future around these agricultural soils are required.
JACQLQ subjective symptom questionnaire score and clinical test results for patients with allergic conjunctival disease
Authors: Yamana Yasuo , Yamana Satoshi , Uchio Eiichi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background: We investigated the relationship between subjective symptoms and objective findings in patients with allergic conjunctival diseases (ACD) and test results for tear total IgE (t-tIgE), conjunctival eosinophils (c-Eo), serum total IgE (s-tIgE), and serum-antigen specific IgE (s-sIgE) serum eosinophils (s-Eo).Methods: Subjective symptoms and objective findings of patients with ACD were evaluated using Japanese Allergic Conjunctival Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (JACQLQ), which described disability score and emotional score written by patient and clinical findings score written by ophthalmologist. We investigated the relationship between questionnaire scores and laboratory data for t-tIgE, c-Eo, s-tIgE, s-sIgE, and s-Eo.Results: Scores of impediments to life and of moods were highest in vernal keratoconjunctivitis among ACD. Cases with positive pollen-sIgE showed significantly more nasal symptom score than those with negative pollen-sIgE (P < 0.05). Cases with positive t-tIgE or c-Eo showed significantly more objective symptoms’ JACQLQ score than those with negative t-tIgE or c-Eo (P < 0.05), respectively. Cases positive for house dust/mite-sIgE, showed significantly more objective symptoms’ JACQLQ score than those without for house dust/mite-sIgE (P < 0.05).Conclusions: These results indicate that ACD could be analyzed more accurately by the combination of JACQLQ and laboratory data.
Genotypic characterization of novel S-DEL variants of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus identified in South Korea
Authors: Lee Duri , Kim Sungrae , Gim Yunhee , Lee Changhee 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The highly pathogenic-genotype 2b (HP-G2b) porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) that caused the 2013–2014 pandemic has evolved in South Korea and has endemically affected the domestic pig industry. This study describes the genotypic traits of novel HP-G2b PEDV strains identified in affected farms experiencing low disease severity with < 10% neonatal mortality. Nucleotide sequencing revealed common deletion (DEL) patterns of duad residues, termed S-DEL2, at positions 60 and 61, 61 and 62, or 63 and 64 in the N-terminal domain of the spike (S) gene of all isolates. Nevertheless, the S barcode profiles of S-DEL2 variants differed from each other and shared 96.0–99.4% and 98.5–99.6% homology with other South Korean HP-G2b PEDV strains at the S and complete genome levels, respectively. Moreover, genetic and phylogenetic analyses confirmed that the S-DEL2 strains belonged to diverse domestic clades, CK, CK.1, CK.2, or NC. The emergence of novel S-DEL2 strains suggests continuous evolution of PEDV under endemic circumstances, which may result in genetic diversity and distinct clinical presentations. Overall, this study advances our knowledge regarding the genetic and pathogenic heterogeneity of PEDV and emphasizes the significance of active monitoring and surveillance to identify novel variants and further explore their genotypic and phenotypic characteristics.
Integrated Analysis of lncRNA–Mediated ceRNA Network in type 2 diabetes
Authors: WANG Yixuan , ZHU Xuan , DONG Zongmei , QIAO Cheng , LI Ting , ZHANG Pan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background:
The lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA ceRNA network has been theorized to play an indispensable role in many disease,however, the function and regulatory mechanisms of ceRNAs associated with lncRNA in diabetes remains unclear.We predict the key lncRNA involved in the peripheral blood ceRNA mechanism of type 2 diabetes by correlation analysis and constructing a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network, to discover new diabetes markers or therapeutic targets.
Methods
The expression profile of differential lncRNA in peripheral blood of type 2 diabetes was detected by gene chip technology. Then use R language and bioinformatics tools to process chip data, predict the target gene by correlation analysis and construct lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. Then perform KEGG pathway analysis and GO enrichment analysis with lncRNA, and predict key lncRNA.
Results
Correlation analysis obtained 2016 pairs of relationship, including 125 lncRNA and 163 mRNA. KEGG pathway and GO enrichment analysis show that there are multiple pathways which related to the occurrence and development of type 2 diabetes. The lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network was successfully constructed according to the results of the chip and predicted data, including 21 miRNAs, 12 mRNAs, 82 lncRNAs and 187 interaction pairs. The prediction tools screened out 6 key lncRNAs.
Conclusion
LncRNA may mediate the occurrence and development of diabetes by the ceRNA mechanism, and its key lncRNA may become a new diabetes screening marker or therapeutic target in the future.
Geospatial analysis of Covid-19 mortality linked to environmental risk factors in Iran- 2019-2021
Authors: Kalankesh Laleh R. , Golamnia Khalil , Hajighasemkhani Alireza , Soori Hamid , Ahmadi Reza , Vaziri Mohammad hossein , Alami Ali 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study aims to investigate the impact of various demographic, environmental, and topographical factors on COVID-19 mortality rates in different geographical provinces of Iran.
Methods
The research utilized data from DATASUS (Ministry of Health), International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), WorldClimV1, Sentinel-5P TROPOMI-based datasets, Open Street Map (OSM), and the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission satellite (SRTM) to gather mortality, demographic, environmental, and topographical data, evaluating them by sex, age group, and province. The analysis employed Geographic Information Systems methodology and logistic regression.
Results
Higher mortality rates were observed in the central and southern regions, with West Azerbaijan and Sistan-Baluchestan provinces showing elevated rates compared to their population sizes. Additionally, South Khorasan, Sistan-Baluchestan, Semnan, Bushehr, and Ilam provinces exhibited higher mortality ratios relative to mean temperature. The central and southern provinces displayed a higher ratio of air pollution concerning Covid-19 mortality, notably around Uremia Lake, showing a significant correlation. Logistic regression analysis revealed positive correlations of NO2 and O3 with Covid-19 mortality, while CO2 and SO2 showed negative correlations. Furthermore, population, population density, and area emerged as the most influential factors affecting the Covid-19 mortality rate.
Conclusions
The findings of this study offer valuable insights for policymakers and public health officials to develop targeted interventions for reducing the virus's impact in high-risk areas and enhancing healthcare resources and infrastructure in urban settings.
Screen time and risky sexual behavior: the mediating role of adverse psychological effect among adolescents
Authors: Zhang Boxing , Jin Yan , Zhu Sijing , Xiang Wanwan , Xin Juan , Niu Hui , Feng Jiayuan , Hong Ping , Li Xiaoxue , Yang Wenfang 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
In the age of digitalization and information technology, the widespread availability of digital media facilities has led to a scenario where most adolescents are exceeding the recommended screen time limits, a trend that is on the rise. Excessive screen time could potentially have detrimental effects on the physical and mental well-being of adolescents. While the association between screen time and psychological health as well as risky behaviors has been explored, the mediating influence of screen time on psychological health and risky behaviors remains unconfirmed.
Methods
The data analysis involved 4054 participants, with mean age of 17.64 years (standard deviation 0.95 years). This study relied on self-reported data regarding screen time and mental health over the past 30 days. Logistic regression and structural equation modeling were employed to examine the relationship between risky sexual behavior, screen time, and the mental well-being of the participants.
Results
During the study, the regression analysis showed that the increase of screen time was significantly positively associated with risky sexual behavior, the OR and 95% CI was 2.566(1.073-6.138) after adjusted the confounders. Otherwise, the screen time was positive associated with adverse psychological effect and risky sexual behavior (β=0.01 and 0.03, P＜0.05), and the psychological effect was positive associated with risky sexual behavior (β=0.04 , P＜0.05).
Conclusions
The results of the mediation analysis demonstrate that the adverse psychological effects serve as a mediating variable between screen time and risky sexual behaviors among adolescents, providing evidence for their role. In order to effectively minimize the prevalence of risky sexual behaviors among adolescents and effectively prevent short-term and long-term psychological and physical harm, restricting screen time may be crucial.
A real-life study of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis from two Brazilian Centers of Pediatric Rheumatology
Authors: TERRAZAS ANA MARIA LOROÑO , CLEMENTE GLEICE , Suárez Raúl Gutiérrez , Campos Reinan Tavares , Len Claudio Arnaldo , Aikawa Nadia Emi , Fernandez Jade Dib , Dantas Mayra Lisyer , Silva Clóvis Artur , Terreri Maria Teresa 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic rheumatic disease in childhood, but its outcomes are still difficult to determine. We aimed to obtain outcome measurements of disease activity, functional capacity, disease damage and therapeutic response, in a one-year follow-up study on a real-life basis.Methods An observational study from an Inception cohort of JIA from two Brazilian Pediatric Rheumatology Centers was conducted for one year. Clinimetric validated outcome measurements were applied over four visits (baseline: Vbaseline, week 12: V12, week 26: V26 and week 52: V52). The multivariable logistic regression was performed to evaluate baseline variables associated with disease activity, minimal disease activity, disease flare, remission on medication and remission off medication at one year of follow-up.Results A total of 127 patients were included in the study. Eighty-three (65.4%) were females, and median time to diagnosis was 6.0 months. The most frequent JIA subtypes were persistent oligoarticular and rheumatoid factor-negative polyarticular, 30.7% each. The clinimetric measurements used to assess disease activity and functional capacity showed significant improvement over the one-year follow-up period (p < 0.001 in both cases) as well as the therapeutic response assessed by the Ped-ACR-30,50,70,90 (p < 0.05). Inactive disease was present in 33% of patients at baseline, vs 67.9% at V52. Remission on medication and off medication was present in 46% and in 11% of patients at V52, respectively. Extra-articular and articular damage were not common at baseline and did not decrease significantly during the period of the study. The presence of active joints at baseline reduced the chance of the patient achieving remission off medication at the last visit by 84% (p = 0.039). Minimal disease activity was present in 80.6% at V52.Conclusion This study showed progressive improvement of several clinimetric outcome measurements and therapeutic response in an inception cohort of JIA patients. The presence of active joints at baseline represented a risk of not achieving remission at last visit. Long-term prospective and multicenter studies are needed to better assess the follow up of JIA and the differences between subtypes in real life.
Multi-element geochemical anomaly recognition applying geologically-constrained convolutional deep learning algorithm with Butterworth filtering
Authors: Sabbaghi Hamid , Tabatabaei Seyed Hassan , fathianpour Nader 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Deep learning networks have extensively been used to detect multi-element geochemical anomalies linked to different mineral deposits in recent decade. Efficient detection of multi-element geochemical anomalies is a significant issue that should be done through capable processing methods. The two-dimensional (2D) convolutional neural networks (CNN) are a powerful subset of machine learning algorithms which can present magnificent conclusions. Because those have the ability to extract high-level features of complex inputs. But, there are several shortcomings in applying 2D images as input of the CNNs for multi-element geochemical anomaly mapping. This challenge can be solved designing one-dimensional (1D) CNN to convolve geochemical data table yielding unbiased maps produced. Also, great feature extraction ability of the CNNs can increase defining geological constraints and training their frameworks with frequency domain data which is contained superlative information. In this regard, a novel geologically-constrained convolutional deep learning (GCDL) algorithm has been developed to classify multi-element geochemical data table. Accordingly, constructed GCDL with frequency domain training data of the Cr mineralization in the Robat Sefid district, NE Iran, could demonstrate impressive results. Based on success-rate curves, produced map of frequency domain geochemical data has plotted 86.22% Cr occurrences via 28% corresponding area while produced map of spatial domain geochemical data has plotted 79.91% Cr occurrences via same corresponding area.
A Novel Approach to Enhance Software Defect Prediction using An
Improved Grey Wolf Optimization based Extreme Learning
Machine Technique
Authors: Mallik Saurav , Pradhan Debasish , Muduli Debendra , Rath Adyasha , Panda Ganapati , Dash Sujata , Qin Hong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In software development and testing, detecting and mitigating faults are paramount to prevent potential issues from escalating
and disrupting the development and testing processes. The proposed method can also improve the prediction of various is
sues, such as increased model complexity, longer execution times, higher error rates, and enhanced fault detection capabilities.
Addressing this concern, the paper introduced a three-stage model encompassing data pre-processing, feature dimensionality
reduction, and fault prediction, which are essential steps in effective software testing. Our research leverages the publicly
available NASA dataset and employs Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) to re
duce feature vector dimensions, a common practice in software testing. We propose an improved version of the Grey Wolf
Optimization (IMGWO) algorithm, complemented by Extreme Learning Machines (ELM), to discern the presence of defects
within software modules. This approach is highly relevant in software testing, as it aids in identifying problematic areas early
in the development cycle. Utilizing the PCA-LDA+IMGWO-ELM approach, our model achieves an average accuracy rate of
0.9811 when applied to the KC2 dataset, a significant milestone in software testing. These results are substantiated through
experimental validation, reinforcing the credibility of our approach in predicting potential software defects during the software testing phase.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Inborn Errors of Metabolism - a retrospective analysis on behalf of the Pediatric Disease Working Party from the Brazilian Society of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy
Authors: Rodrigues Adriana , Fernandes Juliana , Gregianin Lauro José , Nichele Samantha , Trennepohl Joanna Paula , Muratori Rafaella , Gouvêa Lara Maria , Loth Gisele , Pelegrina Polliany Roberta , Kuwahara Cilmara , Benini Fernanda , Peixoto Carolina , Bach Juliana , Koliski Adriana , Mousquer Rebeca Amelia , Garcia Julia , Netto Gabriele , Gomes Alessandra , Mafra Ana Beatriz , Scherer Fernanda , Junior Cláudio , Lima Alberto , Hamerschlak Nelson , Pasquini Ricardo , Daudt Liane , Bonfim Carmem 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an established treatment for selected patients with inborn errors of metabolism. In this first report from the PDWP-SBTMO, we included 105 patients transplanted between 1988 and 2021 across six Brazilian HSCT centers. The most prevalent diseases were X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy(n=61) and mucopolysaccharidosis (type I n=20; type II n=10), with a median age at HSCT of 8.7years and 2.1years, respectively. Most conditioning regimens were myeloablative and busulfan-based. With a median follow-up of 6.7years, the 5-years overall survival (OS) was 75% (95% CI, 0.65 - 0.82) with a superior 5-year OS for those transplanted after 2010(87% vs. 63%, p=0.01). Higher risk of death was associated to the use of haploidentical donor (HR8.86, p 0.021), unrelated cord blood (HR 8.76, p 0.005), unrelated donor (HR 5.91, p 0.02) and for HSCT performed before 2010(HR 4.16, p=0.0015). The CI of acute-GVHD was 24.8%, while chronic-GVHD was 9.5%. Major causes of death were infections(n=8), GVHD(n=6) and neurologic progression(n=3). Despite improvements in transplant outcomes since 2011, challenges persist, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis, timely transplantation, and expanding HSCT centers with expertise in the field.
Evaluating the genetic diversity of Artemisia sieberi Besser from Iran using ISSR molecular markers
Authors: Far Shahram Yazdi , Badi Hassanali Naghdi , Mehrafarin Ali , Jari Sepideh Kalateh , Danaee Elham 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Artemisia sieberi is a valuable medicinal plant that is widespread in the Qom region of Iran. In order to assess the genetic diversity of this species, a total of 20 populations were collected and analyzed using 10 ISSR molecular marker primers. The ISSR analysis resulted in the detection of 133 bands, with 68 being polymorphic and 65 being monomorphic. The average percentage of polymorphism across the 10 primers was calculated to be 52.92%. The overall genetic diversity was found to be partitioned with 42% within populations and 58% between populations. The populations of Abbas Abad and Separ Rostam exhibited the highest level of polymorphism (28.57%) in areas characterized by hot and dry climates. Conversely, the populations of Avel and Karkesh displayed the lowest level of polymorphism (7.52% and 9.02%, respectively) in areas with relatively moderate and humid climates. The genetic similarity matrix, based on the Nie index, revealed a range of population similarity from 0.607 to 0.934 among the 20 Artemisia sieberi populations, indicating a high level of genetic diversity within the Qom province. The genetic diversity of Artemisia sieberi has likely facilitated population adaptation to various ecological conditions, warranting further investigation.
Advancing Proficiency in Lacrimal Syringing: Comparative study of Two Different Syringing Techniques and Designing of a Self-serve Training Model
Authors: Huang Weifeng , Li Zuohong , Gao Yang , Wang Xiaohui , Lu Mingfeng , Lin Xianchai , Liang Xuanwei , Lu Rong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Aim: This study compares two lacrimal syringing techniques and introduces a simplified self-serve training model for ophthalmology residents to acquire proficient skills.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey involved lacrimal syringing novices divided into Group A and Group B. Group A underwent an 8-hour training session covering both techniques and completed post-training questionnaires. Based on Group A's feedback, a simplified self-serve training model was developed. Group B received training, with or without the new model, to assess its effectiveness in improving syringing skills.
Results: The study included 92 participants, with 47 in Group A and 45 in Group B. In Group A, 70.2% preferred Technique 1 (Group A1) and 29.8% opted for Technique 2 (Group A2). No significant differences were found between A1 and A2 in baseline skill, practice duration, or mastery levels (p > 0.05). Both techniques had similar perceived difficulty (p > 0.05), but Technique 2 was easier for injection (p < 0.05). Lack of suitable training models (63.8%) and psychological barriers (25.5%) were the main obstacles to proficiency. Group B1, using the training model, showed increased confidence scores (p < 0.05) and a tendency towards better skill assessment, although not statistically significant compared to Group B2 (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Both lacrimal syringing techniques are easily mastered, with Technique 1 preferred by the majority and Technique 2 ideal for pressed irrigation. Our self-serve training model presents a cost-effective means to boost confidence and facilitate lacrimal syringing skill acquisition among ophthalmology residents.