bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of Platooning on Fuel Consumption in Heavy-Duty Vehicles: A Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling Approach
Authors: Kim EunRyoung , Kang Yeri , Hwang Ha , Kim Jae-Jin , Song Chang-Keun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Platooning represents a crucial strategy for mitigating emissions from heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). This study evaluates the effects of platoon composition on the surrounding airflow utilizing a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, and quantifies the resultant fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions. This study examines fuel consumption data reconstructed from field experiments to validate the CFD model’s ability to accurately simulate drag forces within a homogeneous three-truck platoon. The potential for fuel savings was assessed based on CFD-simulated fuel consumption, taking into account various inter-vehicle distances and driving speeds. The model successfully reproduced the fuel consumption observed in a platooning formation comprising lead, middle, and trailing trucks, with an error margin below 6.2%. While the lead and middle trucks exhibited increased fuel consumption with greater inter-vehicle distances, the trailing truck showed decreased fuel consumption with specific distance-to-length ratios (D/L), followed by an increase from a D/L of 1.1. Additionally, a significant decrease in total fuel efficiency was noted for D/L ratios exceeding 1.5. Considering the diverse platooning scenarios analyzed, the study anticipates an annual reduction of up to 7 tons of CO2 equivalent per vehicle. By optimizing platooning configurations, this research contributes to enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions from HDVs.
Site-specific molecular design of low-dielectric benzocyclobutene (BCB)-sub-nanometer inorganic nanocomposites
Authors: Fu Wenxin , Xie Meng , Fan Wenjie , Li Menglu , Sun Quan , He Yan , Lu Jennifer 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

A facile synthetic strategy for generating polymer-inorganic nanocomposites with highly dispersed nanodomains, such as silsesquioxane, covalently bonded within a benzocyclobutene (BCB)-functionalized polycarbosiloxane matrix is reported. This approach leverages click coupling and thermally induced cycloaddition reactions to embed oligomeric silsesquioxane, achieving a unique molecular structure with promising low-dielectric applications. The synthesis involves a platinum-catalyzed hydrosilylation to prepare the silsesquioxane component, followed by hydrolytic polycondensation and thiol-ene click reactions that integrate polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane ladder/cage-like or network structures into the polymer matrix. A subsequent Diels-Alder reaction with BCB ensures a fully cured material. The distinct molecular structure bestows the materials with an ultra-low dielectric constant (Dk) of 1.78 and a dissipation factor (Df) of 2.73×10-3 at 1.15 kHz, positioning these values among the top reported for low-dielectric (low-k) materials. This discovery introduces a pioneering design paradigm for polymer-inorganic nanocomposites with well-dispersed sub-nanometer inorganic structure, paving the way for the future investigation of BCB−inorganic nanocomposites with ultra-low Dk.
A multi-omics integration approach relying on circulating factors does not discern endotypes in childhood type 1 diabetes.
Authors: Petrelli Alessandra , Codazzi Valentina , Baldoni Nicola , Scotti Giulia , Giovenzana Anna , Rigamonti Andrea , Frontino Giulio , Bezzecchi Eugenia , Genzano Camillo Bechi , Mandelli Alessandra , Carnovale Debora , Marzinotto Ilaria , Lampasona Vito , Fiorina Paolo , Giustina Andrea , Piemonti Lorenzo , Battaglia Manuela , Morelli Marco , Bonfanti Riccardo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) exhibits considerable heterogeneity, impacting prediction, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Precision medicine aims to tailor treatments using 'endotypes'—subtypes of disease with distinct pathophysiological mechanisms. However, proposed endotypes often lack mechanistic associations with clinical outcomes, remaining elusive in T1D. This study introduces a new approach leveraging the multi-omics factor analysis (MOFA) strategy to explore endotypes through data integration. Analyzing data from 146 new-onset pediatric T1D patients, including circulating immunome, transcriptome, and serum metabolic hormones, we identify 12 factors explaining variability across the three data sets. Notably, no clustering or direct association of these factors with clinical parameters, genetic predisposition and disease outcome are found, suggesting that a combination of clinical phenotypes is responsible for the differences across patients. These findings challenge the assumption that T1D heterogeneity reflects diverse developmental mechanisms, contributing significantly to the endotype discussion and impacting clinical trial design.
Sleep and degenerative skeletal disorders: an Observational and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Shiyong , Liang Zixin , Wu Siqing , Wang Danni , Sun Yuxuan , Xia Bin , Hu Linmin , Kang Yunze , Sheng Puyi , Wei Fuxin , Yuan Jinqiu , Zhang Ziji 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Objectives: Skeletal degeneration is influenced by genetics, environment and lifestyle, but the role of sleep in its development remains uncertain. This study investigates the association between sleep and the risk of degenerative skeletal disorders, aiming to identify the impact of specific sleep characteristics on skeletal disorder phenotypes.
Methods: The observational study utilized health data from 387,822 UK Biobank participants. Cox proportional risk regression estimated the association between sleep and degenerative skeletal disorders. Two-sample MR analyses validated the bidirectional causal relationships based on genetic associations summary data of sleep characteristics from UK Biobank and skeletal disorders from FinnGen as well as meta GWAS, using inverse-variance weighted (IVW), MR-PRESSO, weighed median and MR-Egger.
Results: In observational study, 37 pairs of exposure-disease risk associations were identified between six sleep characteristics and eight degenerative skeletal phenotypes. The risk of degenerative skeletal disorders was increased with unhealthy sleep characteristics. MR analysis confirmed four robust causality associations: short sleep duration with overall OA (OR=2.88, 95%CI: 1.63-5.07), knee OA (OR=2.50, 95%CI: 1.33-4.68), and LDD (OR=2.97, 95%CI: 1.63-5.41), and long sleep duration with LDD (OR=0.13, 95%CI: 0.03-0.53). Four positive associations were considered potentially causal, including insomnia with LDD and spondylosis, early chronotype with overall OA, and short sleep duration with CDD.
Conclusions and Relevance: Large prospective observational and MR studies suggest a causal effect of sleep on spine and peripheral joint degeneration, emphasizing the value of sleep management in ameliorating joint degeneration.
The Nematode Signaling Molecule ascr#18 Induces Prepenetration Defenses in Wheat Against a Leaf Rust Fungus
Authors: Kamboj Akshita , Thielmann Jennifer , Delfan Saba , Kloppe Tim , Schulz Philipp , Manohar Murli , Schroeder Frank C. , Klessig Daniel F. , Kogel Karl-Heinz 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Leaf rust, caused by the pathogenic biotrophic rust fungus Puccinia triticina (Pt), is one of the most destructive wheat diseases worldwide; its negative impact on crop yields is exacerbated by increasing temperatures due to climate change. Ascarosides are nematode pheromones that induce resistance to microbial pathogens and pests in a wide range of crops, making them valuable components in biocontrol scenarios. We investigated the effect on infection of various wheat (Triticum aestivum) genotypes with the virulent Pt race 77WxR by ascr#18, the major ascaroside secreted into the rhizosphere by plant-parasitic nematodes. Spraying the leaves with ascr#18 24 hours before inoculation with fungal uredospores slowed disease development and resulted in a reduction of the number of rust pustules on treated compared to untreated leaves. Dose-response analysis over the nano- and micromolar range revealed a broad optimum concentration down to 0.01 nM ascr#18. Microscopic analysis showed very early arrest of the fungus at the appressorial stage, with associated enhanced local accumulation of H2O2 and abortive stoma penetration. The results of this study are consistent with and extend previous research that has shown that ascr#18 activates plant immunity and thus protects plants from pathogens even at very low doses.
Medication regimen complexity in cancer patients: an overlooked issue for healthcare team
Authors: Cifci Sude Ayca , Atik Elif Aras , Dizdar Ömer , Bayraktar-Ekincioglu Aygin 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the complexity of medication in patients with cancer and to explore its impact on the duration of hospital stay, patients’ perceived medication burden, adherence and unplanned hospitalizations after discharge.
Methods: This study was prospectively conducted in medical oncology clinics of a tertiary care hospital. Patients over 18 years of age and diagnosed with solid tumors and deemed non-palliative were included. A clinical pharmacist assessed the patient’s medication regimen complexity using Medication Regimen Complexity Index (MRCI) upon admission, at 48 hours of hospitalization and at discharge. Clinical pharmacist also participated in the patient education provided by the multidisciplinary team at discharge. Patients' adherence was assessed by Medication Adherence Reporting Scale (MARS) at admission and at the first outpatient visit after the discharge. The perceived burden of drug treatment by the patients was assessed using a questionnaire named as Medication Complexity Questionnaire from Patient Perspective (MCQPP) that was designed by the researchers. The questionnaire was administered at the first follow-up visit at the outpatient clinic after the discharge. Unplanned hospitalizations of the patients within 30 days after discharge were also examined.
Results: A total of 147 patients were enrolled. The median (IQR) MRCI score at discharge was 15.0 (11.0 – 22.0), which was significantly higher than the MRCI score at admission, which was 11.0 (7.0 – 15.0) (p<0.001). As a result of the patient education provided at discharge by the multidisciplinary team, a statistically significant increase was observed in treatment adherence of the patients. Median (IQR) MARS score assessed at admission was 19 (15 – 23), while it increased to 20 (16 – 23) at the follow up outpatient visit (p=0.003). Complexity was found to be higher in patients who had more negative perceptions about their medication, in patients who reported that their daily life were significantly affected by their medication, and in those who perceived more significant burden when complex instructions for medication use were evident (p<0.001). The median MRCI scores at discharge were higher in patients with unplanned hospitalizations compared to those without hospitalization (p<0.001).
Conclusions: In conclusion, integrating the MRCI into oncology practices, along with multidisciplinary care that includes clinical pharmacists, may enable identification of high-risk patients, individualization of drug treatment and optimization of treatment process.
Impacts of Solid Waste Management Strategies in Urban High Density Suburbs: A Case of Amaveni Suburb, Kwekwe, Zimbabwe
Authors: Chireshe Amato , Jerie Steven , Mutekwa Timothy Vurayayi , Shabani Tapiwa , Shabani Takunda , Muyambo Tafadzwa 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Improper solid waste management is one of the causes of environmental and health problems in many cities worldwide. It is in this context that the study aimed to determine the solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni suburbs in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe and assess the health and environmental problems associated with the solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni. Researchers used a mixed method design in which quantitative and qualitative data was collected at the same time. Semi –structured interviews, field observations and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised 380 Amaveni residents, 3 Kwekwe City employees and one EMA official. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically while quantitative data was analyzed using inferential statistics. Open dumping and open burning were the dominant solid waste management strategies in Amaveni. The main health problems identified were cholera and malaria. Air pollution, water pollution and loss of urban beauty were the main environmental problems identified. From the findings it can be concluded that solid waste management strategies used in Amaveni were associated with many health and environmental problems and as a result a sustainable solid waste management model was developed for Amaveni suburb.
Geographical, seasonal, and growth-related dynamics of gut microbiota in a grapevine pest, Apolygus spinolae (Heteroptera: Miridae) Running title: Gut microbiota of a grapevine pest bug
Authors: MORIMURA Hiroyuki , ISHIGAMI Kota , SATO Tomoyuki , SONE Teruo , KIKUCHI Yoshitomo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

A number of insects are associated with gut symbiotic microorganisms, wherein symbionts play pivotal metabolic roles such as nutrient supplementation, diet degradation, and pesticide detoxification. Despite the ecological and evolutionary importance of gut microbial communities in insects, their diversity and dynamics remain unclear in many insect species. The green plant bug Apolygus spinolae, a notorious grapevine pest in Japan, damages grape shoots and severely reduces grape berry yield and quality. The plant bug possesses a simple tubular gut housing ~ 104 bacteria. Here we investigated geographic, seasonal, and growth-related dynamics of gut microbiota by high-throughput sequencing in 82 individuals (11 nymphs and 71 adults) from five locations in Hokkaido, Japan. In plant bugs, gut microbiota changed dynamically depending on geographic region, season, and developmental stage, in which particularly Serratia and Caballeronia were abundantly detected. Among the gut bacteria, Serratia was consistently and abundantly detected, but significantly affected by seasonal changes. In addition, Caballeronia, known as a specific symbiont of some stinkbug species, was abundantly detected, especially in insects collected in late summer. The increase in Caballeronia was negatively correlated with Serratia, strongly suggesting an antagonistic interaction between gut bacterial members in A. spinolae.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Adolescents and Young Adults with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Population-Based Study
Authors: liu luojie , Huang Lijun , Ye Ye , Chen Jian , Xu Xiaodan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) have recently shown an increasing incidence among younger individuals, yet population-based studies examining the clinical characteristics and prognosis specifically in adolescents and young adults (AYA) remain scarce.
Methods
All patients diagnosed with PNETs from 2000 to 2020 were identified through the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was adopted to reduce selection bias. Kaplan-Meier analyses and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the impact of demographic and clinical variables on overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS).
Results
A total of 11728 patients were included in the study, with 887 in the AYA group and 10841 in the older adult (OA) group. Compared to the OA group, the AYA group had fewer Caucasians, more females, earlier clinical staging, lower distant metastasis rates, and higher surgical treatment rates (P < 0.05). The AYA group exhibited better OS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.44–0.57, P < 0.001) and CSS (HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.51–0.67, P < 0.001). The mean 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates for AYA were 92.6%, 78.3%, and 66.4%, respectively, with corresponding CSS rates of 93.5%, 79.9%, and 68.4%. After PSM, the AYA group still exhibited better OS and CSS (P < 0.05). Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified sex, N stage, tumor size, surgery, and chemotherapy as independent risk factors for OS in AYA group, while sex, N stage, surgery, and chemotherapy were identified as risk factors for CSS.
Conclusions
This population-based study revealed that AYAs with PNETs exhibit a favorable prognosis and distinctive clinical features, while surgery and chemotherapy have the potential to enhance the prognosis for these individuals.
Measuring Rising Heat and Flood Risk Along the Belt-and- Road Initiative
Authors: Liang Jiayong , Carrai Maria Adele , Malik Ammar A. , Gao Xi , Gao Xuyan , Feng Lihan , Huang Kangning 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
China's global infrastructure financing flagship, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) encompasses countries hosting over 60% of the global population and one-third of worldwide GDP. It is based mainly on long-term loans that will mature decades into the future, and timely repayments are only possible if they remain commercially viable. But despite its vast global scope, little is known about the climate risks that could imperil the operations of BRI projects over the next few decades, and, consequently, threaten their long-term sustainability. We narrow this gap by estimating the impacts of future climate change on 217 BRI projects across 70 countries and 9 sectors on two dimensions. First, the effects of increased heat stress on human physical work capacity are calculated using the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) and an assessment of the workload for each selected BRI project. Second, the potential structural damages from more frequent flooding incidents, measuring the occurrence probability with flood return period (RP), where a shorter RP signals heightened risk. Both have direct impacts on human productivity and infrastructural integrity, which are essential to maintaining the operational viability and financial stability of BRI projects. We compared projected changes on both measures for the mid- and late-twentieth centuries (2041–2060 and 2081–2100) to the historical baseline (1981–2010). We found that BRI projects face escalating vulnerability to climatic risks on both counts. The results underscore a broad variance across different future carbon emission scenarios measured under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (including SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5). BRI's aggregated climatic risks are substantially elevated under a high carbon emission scenario compared to a low emission scenario. By the late twentieth century, labor workability could experience a threefold increase in reduction for SSP3-7.0 (31%), compared to SSP1-2.6 (10%). Under an intermediate-emission scenario (SSP2-4.5), ten-year floods could occur every five years, significantly hampering the utilization and economic return generation potential of infrastructure projects. In addition, regional geography contributes to risk heterogeneity, with 100-year floods occurring every 15 years in South Asia and every 24 years in Sub-Saharan Africa. Such climate risk implications, potentially overlooked by development financiers, represent significant risks to the sustenance of the BRI, estimated to be worth $1 trillion.
Exploring Houseowners Compliance with Urban Greenery Regulations in Madina, Ghana
Authors: Akagla Seth , Boafo Yaw Agyeman 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The transformation of natural landscapes due to ongoing urbanisation highlights the critical need for the presence and integration of vegetation within urban environments. Although the benefits of urban greenery, including biodiversity conservation, pollution mitigation, and reduction of urban heat island effects, are widely recognized, adherence to corresponding building regulations poses a significant challenge in many Global South countries, including Ghana. This study investigates the compliance with urban greenery regulations among houseowners in Madina, a rapidly urbanizing suburb of Accra, Ghana. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with houseowners (n = 200) with qualitative interviews (n = 8) to explore the levels of awareness and compliance among residential houseowners with the guidelines stipulated in the Ghana Building Regulations (LI 1630) and the Ghana Building Code 2018. Our findings reveal a significant gap between awareness of the benefits of urban greenery and actual compliance with the regulations designed to ensure its provision. Key factors contributing to non-compliance were socioeconomic pressures, such as the high cost of land and accommodation, and institutional barriers, including bureaucracy, weak enforcement, and insufficient resources. Furthermore, administrative and political challenges, such as corruption and a lack of support, exacerbate the situation. The study proposes targeted recommendations to enhance compliance rates, emphasizing the need for streamlined regulatory processes, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and increased awareness campaigns to highlight the critical importance of urban green spaces.
The Effect of Tax Avoidance on Investment Efficiency: The Mediating Role of Cash Holding—Evidence from Egypt
Authors: Elfeky Mostafa Ibrahim , Elbrashy Ahmed , Issa Ayman 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose–
This study aims to investigate the influence of tax avoidance on investment efficiency, while also examining the mediating role of cash holding in this relationship.
Design/methodology/approach–
Utilizing a sample comprising 321 firm-year observations from Egypt, we employ Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression to examine both the direct and indirect associations between tax avoidance and investment efficiency.
Findings–
The results revealed a significant positive effect of tax avoidance on cash holding and excess cash. Moreover, there is contrasting findings on the effect of cash holding on investment efficiency. Additionally, the study revealed a significant negative effect of tax avoidance on investment efficiency, with a positive effect on overinvestment and a negative effect on underinvestment. Furthermore, cash holding played a mediating role in the relationship between tax avoidance and investment efficiency.
Practical implications–
The insights gleaned from this study hold significant implications for various stakeholders in Egypt, including tax authorities, investors, and listed firms. Given the current economic instability in Egypt, where many firms resort to cash hoarding to mitigate potential future financial constraints, these findings offer valuable guidance for regulatory agencies, investors, and firms navigating uncertain economic conditions.
Originality–
This paper explores how tax avoidance influences cash holdings and investment efficiency in Egyptian firms, filling a gap in existing literature. It introduces a novel perspective by examining the mediating role of cash holdings between tax avoidance strategies and investment outcomes. By focusing on the specific context of Egyptian firms, it offers unique insights into the complex interplay between tax-related decisions, financial management, and firm performance. Overall, the study provides valuable contributions to understanding the dynamics of tax planning and its implications for corporate finance in emerging market economies.