bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Divergent colonization traits, convergent benefits: different species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi alleviate Meloidogyne incognita damage in tomato
Authors: Caccia Milena , Marro Nicolás , Novák Václav , Ráez Juan Antonio López , Castillo Pablo , Janoušková Martina 
Published: March 2024

AbstractArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can increase plant tolerance and/or resistance to pests such as the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita. However, the ameliorative effects may depend on AMF species. The aim of this work was therefore to evaluate whether four AMF species differentially affect plant performance in response to M. incognita infection. Tomato plants grown in greenhouse conditions were inoculated with four different AMF isolates (Claroideoglomus claroideum, Funneliformis mosseae, Gigaspora margarita, and Rhizophagus intraradices) and infected with 100 second stage juveniles of M. incognita at two different times: simultaneously or 2 weeks after the inoculation with AMF. After 60 days, the number of galls, egg masses, and reproduction factor of the nematodes were assessed along with plant biomass, phosphorus (P), and nitrogen concentrations in roots and shoots and root colonization by AMF. Only the simultaneous nematode inoculation without AMF caused a large reduction in plant shoot biomass, while all AMF species were able to ameliorate this effect and improve plant P uptake. The AMF isolates responded differently to the interaction with nematodes, either increasing the frequency of vesicles (C. claroideum) or reducing the number of arbuscules (F. mosseae and Gi. margarita). AMF inoculation did not decrease galls; however, it reduced the number of egg masses per gall in nematode simultaneous inoculation, except for C. claroideum. This work shows the importance of biotic stress alleviation associated with an improvement in P uptake and mediated by four different AMF species, irrespective of their fungal root colonization levels and specific interactions with the parasite.
Comparative bioactivity and immunomodulatory potential of the new Bioroot Flow and AH Plus Bioceramic sealer: An in vitro study on hPDLSCs
Authors: Sanz José Luis , López-García Sergio , García-Bernal David , Rodríguez-Lozano Francisco Javier , Forner Leopoldo , Lozano Adrián , Murcia Laura 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Objectives
To evaluate the cytocompatibility, bioactivity, and anti-inflammatory potential of the new pre-mixed calcium silicate cement-based sealers Bioroot Flow (BrF) and AH Plus Bioceramic Sealer (AHPbcs) on human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) compared to the epoxy resin-based sealer AH Plus (AHP).

Materials and methods
Standardized discs and 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 eluates of BrF, AHPbcs and AHP after setting were prepared. The following assays were performed: cell attachment and morphology via SEM, cell viability via a MTT assay, cell migration/proliferation via a wound-healing assay, cytoskeleton organization via immunofluorescence staining; cytokine release via ELISA; osteo/cemento/odontogenic marker expression via RT-qPCR, and cell mineralized nodule formation via Alizarin Red S staining. HPDLSCs were isolated from extracted third molars from healthy patients. Comparisons were made with hPDLSCs cultured in unconditioned (negative control) or osteogenic (positive control) culture media. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05.

Results
Both BrF and AHPbcs showed significantly positive results in the cytocompatibility assays (cell metabolic activity, migration, attachment, morphology, and cytoskeleton organization) compared with a negative control group, while AHP showed significant negative results. BrF exhibited an upregulation of at least one osteo/cementogenic marker compared to the negative and positive control groups. BrF showed a significantly higher calcified nodule formation than AHPbcs, the negative and positive control groups, while AHPbcs was higher than the negative control group. Both were also significantly higher than AHP group.

Conclusion
BrF and AHPbcs exhibit adequate and comparable cytocompatibility on hPDLSCs. BrF also promoted the osteo/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs. Both calcium silicate-based sealers favored the downregulation of the inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and the calcified nodule formation from hPDLSCs. BrF exerted a significantly higher influence on cell mineralization than AHPbcs.

Clinical relevance
This is the first study to elucidate the biological properties and immunomodulatory potential of Bioroot Flow and AH Plus Bioceramic Sealer. The results act as supporting evidence for their use in root canal treatment.
Habituation to a predatory stimulus in a harvester (Arachnida, Opiliones)
Authors: Pagoti Guilherme Ferreira , Hogan Jerry A. , Willemart Rodrigo Hirata 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Several studies have investigated habituation in a defensive context, but few have addressed responses to dangerous stimuli. In such cases, animals should not habituate since this could cost their lives. Here we have stimulated individuals of the harvester Mischonyx squalidus with a predatory stimulus (squeezing with tweezers) in repeated trials within and between days, and measured the occurrence and magnitude of nipping, a defensive behavior. Contrary to our expectations, they did habituate to this stimulus. The probability and magnitude of response declined over trials during each of three days of testing in a typical habituation pattern. During the trials we also observed other defensive behaviors. We discuss our results mainly considering alternative defensive responses. Our data show that we lack information on (1) the role played by the ambiguity of stimuli, (2) the role played by subsequent stimuli and (3) the importance of the array of defensive behaviors of a species in understanding habituation. Although ubiquitous across animals and therefore expected, habituation is described for the first time in the order Opiliones.
Intraventricular or intrathecal polymyxin B for treatment of post-neurosurgical intracranial infection caused by carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria: a 8-year retrospective study
Authors: Hu Yangmin , Li Danyang , Zhang Gensheng , Dai Yunjian , Chen Meng , Jiang Huifang , Cui Wei 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Post-neurosurgical intracranial infection caused by carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria (CRGNB) is a life-threatening complication. This study aimed to assess the current practices and clinical outcomes of intravenous (IV) combined with intraventricular (IVT)/intrathecal (ITH) polymyxin B in treating CRGNB intracranial infection.

Methods
A retrospective study was conducted on patients with post-neurosurgical intracranial infection due to CRGNB from January 2013 to December 2020. Clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes were collected and described. Kaplan–Meier survival and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results
The study included 114 patients, of which 72 received systemic antimicrobial therapy combined with IVT/ITH polymyxin B, and 42 received IV administration alone. Most infections were caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB, 63.2%), followed by carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP, 31.6%). Compared with the IV group, the IVT/ITH group had a higher cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sterilization rate in 7 days (p < 0.001) and lower 30-day mortality (p = 0.032). In the IVT/ITH group, patients with CRKP infection had a higher initial fever (p = 0.014), higher incidence of bloodstream infection (p = 0.040), lower CSF sterilization in 7 days (p < 0.001), and higher 30-day mortality (p = 0.005) than those with CRAB infection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the duration of IVT/ITH polymyxin B (p = 0.021) was independently associated with 30-day mortality.

Conclusions
Intravenous combined with IVT/ITH polymyxin B increased CSF microbiological eradication and improved clinical outcomes. CRKP intracranial infections may lead to more difficult treatment and thus warrant attention and further optimized treatment.
DilatedToothSegNet: Tooth Segmentation Network on 3D Dental Meshes Through Increasing Receptive Vision
Authors: Krenmayr Lucas , von Schwerin Reinhold , Schaudt Daniel , Riedel Pascal , Hafner Alexander 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe utilization of advanced intraoral scanners to acquire 3D dental models has gained significant popularity in the fields of dentistry and orthodontics. Accurate segmentation and labeling of teeth on digitized 3D dental surface models are crucial for computer-aided treatment planning. At the same time, manual labeling of these models is a time-consuming task. Recent advances in geometric deep learning have demonstrated remarkable efficiency in surface segmentation when applied to raw 3D models. However, segmentation of the dental surface remains challenging due to the atypical and diverse appearance of the patients’ teeth. Numerous deep learning methods have been proposed to automate dental surface segmentation. Nevertheless, they still show limitations, particularly in cases where teeth are missing or severely misaligned. To overcome these challenges, we introduce a network operator called dilated edge convolution, which enhances the network’s ability to learn additional, more distant features by expanding its receptive field. This leads to improved segmentation results, particularly in complex and challenging cases. To validate the effectiveness of our proposed method, we performed extensive evaluations on the recently published benchmark data set for dental model segmentation Teeth3DS. We compared our approach with several other state-of-the-art methods using a quantitative and qualitative analysis. Through these evaluations, we demonstrate the superiority of our proposed method, showcasing its ability to outperform existing approaches in dental surface segmentation.
Digital learning for preschools: Validation
of basic ICT competence beliefs of preschool teachers in Hong Kong and the
Philippines
Authors: Valdez Jana Patricia M. , Mendoza Norman B. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWith technology integration efforts expanding to early childhood
education globally, assessing preschool teachers’ technological competence
beliefs is imperative. However, most existing tools measuring teachers’
information and communication technology (ICT) competence beliefs focused on primary
through secondary grades. This study examined the factorial validity, reliability,
and measurement invariance of the Basic ICT Competence Beliefs (BICB) questionnaire
among 209 preschool teachers in Hong Kong and the Philippines. Confirmatory factor
analyses supported the original nine-factor structure over plausible alternative
models. All factors showed good reliability (α = 0.83 to 0.91)
and theoretically meaningful factor intercorrelations. Multigroup CFA results
supported the measurement invariance of the scale. Specifically, the results
demonstrated the configural, metric, scalar, and strict invariance across cultural
groups. Findings provide further validity for the BICB as a psychometrically sound
instrument for assessing preschool teachers’ ICT competence beliefs within
and across contexts. The BICB can help identify teacher strengths and needs, guide
professional development, and evaluate technology integration efforts in early
childhood education in Asia.
Pulsed muon facility of J-PARC MUSE
Authors: Shimomura Koichiro , Koda Akihiko , Pant Amba Datt , Sunagawa Hikaru , Fujimori Hiroshi , Umegaki Izumi , Nakamura Jumpei , Fujihala Masayoshi , Tampo Motonobu , Kawamura Naritoshi , Teshima Natsuki , Strasser Patrick , Kadono Ryosuke , Iwai Ryoto , Matoba Shiro , Nishimura Shoichiro , Kamioka Shusei , Kanda Sohtaro , Takeshita Soshi , Yuasa Takahiro , Ito Takashi , Yamazaki Takayuki , Mibe Tsutomu , Higemoto Wataru , Miyake Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Yasuo , Oishi Yu , Nagatani Yukinori , Ikedo Yutaka 
Published: March 2024

AbstractJ-PARC Muon Facility: MUSE (Muon Science Establishment) is responsible for the inter-university user program and the operation, maintenance, and construction of the muon beamlines, namely D-line, S-line, U-line, and H-line, along with the muon source at J-PARC Materials and Life Science Facility (MLF). In this paper, recent developments are briefly presented.
Solid-state 2H NMR investigation of molecular motion in proton-conducting polyacrylic acid/imidazole composites
Authors: Mizuno Motohiro , Hosoe Nanaka , Kurihara Takuya , Shigeta Yasuhiro , Amemori Shogo , Yamaguchi Naoya , Ishii Fumiyuki 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe molecular motion of imidazole (Im) in proton-conducting polyacrylic acid (PAA)/Im composite materials (PAA/xIm, where x represents the number of moles of Im per mole of the carboxyl group of PAA) was investigated using solid-state 2H NMR. For the 2H NMR analysis of polymers in which multiple constituents with different kinetic states coexist, we propose the simultaneous analysis of two 2H NMR spectra observed by the quadruple echo method using different echo intervals. The 2H NMR spectra were analyzed by superimposing simulated spectra with different jumping rates of 180° flip and isotropic rotation of Im. For PAA/0.5Im-d3, Im undergoes 180° flip below 343 K and isotropic rotation above 363 K. For PAA/1.0Im-d3, Im undergoes 180° flip below 323 K and isotropic rotation above 363 K. In the temperature range of 333–343 K, Im undergoing 180° flip and isotropic rotation coexist in PAA/1.0Im-d3. The distributions of the jumping rates of 180° flip and isotropic rotation of Im were obtained. The increase in the amount of Im enhances the jumping rate of the isotropic rotation of Im and the proton conductivity of PAA/xIm at high temperatures.
Unveiling NUSAP1 as a common gene signature linking chronic HBV infection and HBV-related HCC
Authors: Meng Jiao , Yang Zhenkun , Jiang Xinyi , Zou Jian 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a significant contributor to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Chronic HBV infection (CHB) facilitates disease progression through various mechanisms. However, the specific factor responsible for the progression of HBV infection to HCC remains unresolved. This study aims to identify the hub gene linking CHB and HBV-related HCC through bioinformatic analysis and experimental verification.

Methods
Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in datasets encompassing CHB and HBV-HCC patients from the GEO database. Enriched pathways were derived from GO and KEGG analysis. Hub genes were screened by protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis and different modules in Cytoscape software. The significance of the selected hub gene in prognosis was further assessed in validated datasets. The effects of hub genes on cell growth and apoptosis were further determined in functional experiments.

Results
The study revealed upregulation of NUSAP1 in CHBs and HBV-HCCs. High expression of NUSAP1 served as an independent predictor for poor prognosis of liver cancers. Functional experiments demonstrated that NUSAP1 promotes cell growth, influences cell cycle process, and protects cells from apoptosis in HepG2.2.15 cells.

Conclusion
NUSAP1 serves as a poor prognostic indicator for liver cancers, and potentially plays a crucial role in HBV-HCC progression by promoting proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis.
The Role of Entrepreneurship in Changing the Employment Rate in the European Union
Authors: Komninos Dimitrios , Dermatis Zacharias , Anastasiou Athanasios , Papageorgiou Christos 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The aim of this research is to examine the role of entrepreneurship in changing the employment rate in the European Union (EU). With the aim of understanding the relationship between entrepreneurship and employment dynamics, this research investigates the impact of entrepreneurial activities on job creation, job opportunities, and overall employment trends across EU member states. By analyzing a comprehensive dataset encompassing various economic indicators and entrepreneurial metrics, including business startups, self-employment rates, and entrepreneurial ecosystem factors, this study provides insights into the mechanisms through which entrepreneurship influences employment in the EU. The analysis considers both the direct and indirect effects of entrepreneurship on employment, exploring how entrepreneurial ventures contribute to job creation, stimulate economic growth, and shape labor market dynamics. The findings of this study reveal that entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in changing the employment rate in the EU. Entrepreneurial activities, such as new business startups and self-employment, contribute significantly to job creation, particularly in sectors characterized by innovation, technology, and services. Furthermore, entrepreneurship fosters a dynamic and flexible labor market, promoting job opportunities and reducing unemployment rates. The study also highlights the importance of supportive policies, access to financing, and a favorable regulatory environment in facilitating entrepreneurship and its positive impact on employment. Understanding the role of entrepreneurship in changing the employment rate has implications for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in fostering economic growth and labor market development in the EU. The findings emphasize the need to encourage and support entrepreneurial initiatives, provide resources and support mechanisms for startups, and create an enabling environment that nurtures entrepreneurship and innovation. By leveraging the potential of entrepreneurship, the EU can stimulate employment growth, enhance competitiveness, and achieve sustainable economic prosperity.
Malaria vaccine efficacy, safety, and community perception in Africa: a scoping review of recent empirical studies
Authors: Chutiyami Muhammad , Saravanakumar Priya , Bello Umar Muhammad , Salihu Dauda , Adeleye Khadijat , Kolo Mustapha Adam , Dawa Kabiru Kasamu , Hamina Dathini , Bhandari Pratibha , Sulaiman Surajo Kamilu , Sim Jenny 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Aim
The review summarizes the recent empirical evidence on the efficacy, safety, and community perception of malaria vaccines in Africa.

Methods
Academic Search Complete, African Journals Online, CINAHL, Medline, PsychInfo, and two gray literature sources were searched in January 2023, and updated in June 2023. Relevant studies published from 2012 were included. Studies were screened, appraised, and synthesized in line with the review aim. Statistical results are presented as 95% Confidence Intervals and proportions/percentages.

Results
Sixty-six (N = 66) studies met the inclusion criteria. Of the vaccines identified, overall efficacy at 12 months was highest for the R21 vaccine (N = 3) at 77.0%, compared to the RTS,S vaccine (N = 15) at 55%. The efficacy of other vaccines was BK-SE36 (11.0–50.0%, N = 1), ChAd63/MVA ME-TRAP (− 4.7–19.4%, N = 2), FMP2.1/AS02A (7.6–9.9%, N = 1), GMZ2 (0.6–60.0%, N = 5), PfPZ (20.0–100.0%, N = 5), and PfSPZ-CVac (24.8–33.6%, N = 1). Injection site pain and fever were the most common adverse events (N = 26), while febrile convulsion (N = 8) was the most reported, vaccine-related Serious Adverse Event. Mixed perceptions of malaria vaccines were found in African communities (N = 17); awareness was generally low, ranging from 11% in Tanzania to 60% in Nigeria (N = 9), compared to willingness to accept the vaccines, which varied from 32.3% in Ethiopia to 96% in Sierra Leone (N = 15). Other issues include availability, logistics, and misconceptions.

Conclusion
Malaria vaccines protect against malaria infection in varying degrees, with severe side effects rarely occurring. Further research is required to improve vaccine efficacy and community involvement is needed to ensure successful widespread use in African communities.
Control of meltpool shape in laser welding
Authors: Suder Wojciech , Chen Xin , Sierra David Rico , Chen Guangyu , Wainwright James , Rajamudili Kuladeep , Pardal Goncalo Rodrigues , Williams Stewart 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn laser welding, the achievement of high productivity and precision is a relatively easy task; however, it is not always obvious how to achieve sound welds without defects. The localised laser energy promotes narrow meltpools with steep thermal gradients, additionally agitated by the vapour plume, which can potentially lead to many instabilities and defects. In the past years, there have been many techniques demonstrated on how to improve the quality and tolerance of laser welding, such as wobble welding or hybrid processes, but to utilise the full potential of lasers, we need to understand how to tailor the laser energy to meet the process and material requirements. Understanding and controlling the melt flow is one of the most important aspects in laser welding. In this work, the outcome of an extensive research programme focused on the understanding of meltpool dynamics and control of bead shape in laser welding is discussed. The results of instrumented experimentation, supported by computational fluid dynamic modelling, give insight into the fundamental aspects of meltpool formation, flow direction, feedstock melting and the likelihood of defect formation in the material upon laser interaction. The work contributes to a better understanding of the existing processes, as well as the development of a new range of process regimes with higher process stability, improved efficiency and higher productivity than standard laser welding. Several examples including ultra-stable keyhole welding and wobble welding and a highly efficient laser wire melting are demonstrated. In addition, the authors present a new welding process, derived from a new concept of the meltpool flow and shape control by dynamic beam shaping. The new process has proven to have many potential advantages in welding, cladding and repair applications.
Numerical modeling techniques for noise emission of free railway wheels
Authors: Taenzer Linus , Pachale Urs , Van Damme Bart , Bergamini Andrea , Tallarico Domenico 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn this article, we consider the numerical prediction of the noise emission from a wheelset in laboratory conditions. We focus on the fluid–structure interaction leading to sound emission in the fluid domain by analyzing three different methods to account for acoustic sources. These are a discretized baffled piston using the discrete calculation method (DCM), a closed cylindrical volume using the boundary element method (BEM) and radiating elastic disks in a cubic enclosure solved with the finite element method (FEM). We provide the validation of the baffled piston and the BEM using measurements of the noise emission of a railway wheel by considering ground reflections in the numerical models. Selected space-resolved waveforms are compared with experimental results as well as with a fluid–structure interaction finite element model. The computational advantage of a discretized disk mounted on a baffle and BEM compared to FEM is highlighted, and the baffled pistons limitations caused by a lack of edge radiation effects are investigated.