bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lower serum uric acid to serum creatinine ratio as a predictor of poor functional outcome after mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Xu Jinghan , Jiang Xin , Liu Qian , Liu Jiaxin , Fang Jinghuan , He Li 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackground and purposeThe ratio of serum uric acid (SUA) to serum creatinine (SCr), representing normalized SUA for renal function, is associated with functional outcome in acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients. However, its effect on AIS patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT) remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the SUA/SCr ratio on clinical outcome in MT‐treated AIS patients.MethodsAcute ischaemic stroke patients who underwent MT were continuously enrolled from January 2018 to June 2023. Upon admission, SUA and SCr levels were recorded within the initial 24 h. Stroke severity was determined using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score. Clinical outcome included poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score >2) at 90 days, symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage and death.ResultsAmongst 734 patients, 432 (58.8%) exhibited poor functional outcome at 90 days. The SUA/SCr ratio exhibited a negative correlation with NIHSS score (ρ = −0.095, p = 0.010). Univariate analysis revealed a significant association between SUA/SCr ratio and poor functional outcome. After adjusting for confounders, the SUA/SCr ratio remained an independent predictor of functional outcome (adjusted odds ratio 0.348, 95% confidence interval 0.282–0.428, p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis highlighted the ability of the SUA/SCr ratio to predict functional outcome, with a cutoff value of 3.62 and an area under the curve of 0.757 (95% confidence interval 0.724–0.788, p < 0.001).ConclusionThe SUA/SCr ratio is correlated with stroke severity and may serve as a predictor of 90‐day functional outcome in AIS patients undergoing MT.
Respiratory emergencies in adult horses
Authors: Dunkel Bettina 
Published: April 2024

SummaryAlthough respiratory distress is encountered infrequently in equine practice, it can be serious and potentially fatal, requiring immediate and decisive intervention. History and physical examination can often give sufficient clues to identify the cause of respiratory distress and initiate emergency treatment. Ultrasonography can also be invaluable when assessing distress caused by lower respiratory tract issues. Upper respiratory tract obstruction, tension pneumothorax and occasionally pulmonary oedema can be rapidly fatal and require immediate intervention by emergency tracheotomy, thoracocentesis and evacuation of pleural air or administration of furosemide and oxygen, if available. Acute severe asthma and substantial pleural effusion are often not an immediate threat to life but nonetheless require fast intervention including administration of bronchodilators and corticosteroids or pleurocentesis, respectively.
Equine bone marrow MSC‐derived extracellular vesicles mitigate the inflammatory effects of interleukin‐1β on navicular tissues in vitro
Authors: Quam Vivian G. , Belacic Zarah A. , Long Sidney , Rice Hilary C. , Dhar Madhu S. , Durgam Sushmitha 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundSafe, efficacious therapy for treating degenerate deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) and navicular bone fibrocartilage (NBF) in navicular horses is critically necessary. While archetypal orthobiologic therapies for navicular disease are used empirically, their safety and efficacy are unknown. Mesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles (EV) may overcome several limitations of current orthobiologic therapies.ObjectivesTo (1) characterise cytokine and growth factor profiles of equine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BM‐MSC)‐derived extracellular vesicles (BM‐EV) and (2) evaluate the in vitro anti‐inflammatory and extracellular matrix (ECM) protective potentials of BM‐EV on DDFT and NBF explant co‐cultures in an IL‐1β inflammatory environment.Study designIn vitro experimental study.MethodsCytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐1ra and TNF‐α) and growth factors (TGFβ1, VEGF, IGF1 and PDGF) in equine BM‐EV isolated via ultracentrifugation and precipitation methods were profiled. Forelimb DDFT and NBF explant co‐cultures from seven horses were exposed to media alone, or media containing 2 × 109 ± 0.1 × 109 particles/mL or 10 μg/mL BM‐EV (BM‐EV), 10 ng/mL interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), or IL‐1β + BM‐EV for 48 h. Co‐culture media IL‐6, TNF‐α, MMP‐3, MMP‐13 concentrations and explant sulphated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) content were quantified.ResultsIL‐6, IGF1 and VEGF concentrations were 102.1 (37.61–256.2) and 182.3 (163.1–226.3), 72.3 (8–175.6) and 2.4 (0.1–2.6), 108.3 (38.3–709.1) and 211.4 (189.1–318.2) pg/mL per 2 × 109 ± 0.1 × 109 particles/mL or 10 μg/mL 10 μg of BM‐EV isolated via ultracentrifugation and precipitation methods, respectively. Co‐culture media MMP‐3 in BM‐EV‐ (p = 0.03) and BM‐EV + IL‐1β‐treated (p = 0.01) groups were significantly lower than the respective media and IL‐1β groups. DDFT explant sGAG content of BM‐EV (p = 0.003) and BM‐EV + IL‐1β groups were significantly higher compared with IL‐1β group.Main limitationsSpecimen numbers are limited, in vitro model may not replicate clinical case conditions, lack of non‐MSC‐derived EV control group.ConclusionsEquine BM‐EV contains IL‐6 and growth factors, IGF1 and VEGF. The anti‐inflammatory and ECM protective potentials of BM‐EV were evident as increased IL‐6 and decreased MMP‐3 concentrations in the DDFT‐NBF explant co‐culture media. These results support further evaluation of BM‐EV as an acellular and ‘off‐the‐shelf’ intra‐bursal/intrasynovial therapy for navicular pathologies.
Phase field simulations on the rate‐ and grain‐size‐dependent crack propagation of polycrystalline NiTi shape memory alloy
Authors: Xiong Junyuan , Xu Bo , Kang Guozheng 
Published: April 2024

AbstractA three‐dimensional non‐isothermal phase field model of polycrystalline NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) was established based on the Ginzburg–Landau's theory, which considered the interaction between crack growth and martensite transformation (MT). Then, the crack propagation of polycrystalline NiTi SMA and its dependence on the system's grain size and loading rate were studied by the phase field simulations. The results show that the proposed phase field model can characterize the MT behavior, temperature field changes, and stress‐displacement response of NiTi SMA during the crack growth with different grain sizes and loading rates. That is the higher the loading rate, the higher the fracture toughness is; the larger the grain size, the higher the fracture toughness is and the more significant the influence of grain boundary on the crack growth path becomes. Meanwhile, as the grain size increases, the fracture mode gradually changes from the transgranular fracture (for the fine‐grained alloy with a grain size ≈ 15 nm) to the intergranular one (for the coarse‐grained alloy with a grain size ≈ 100 nm).
Development of a novel continuum damage mechanics‐based machine learning approach for vibration fatigue assessment of fastener clip subjected to high‐frequency vibration
Authors: Dong Yifei , Zhan Zhixin , Sun Linlin , Hu Weiping , Meng Qingchun , Berto Filippo , Li Hua 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis paper proposes a novel method based on continuum damage mechanics (CDM) and machine learning (ML) models to evaluate the vibration fatigue behavior of W1‐type railway fastener clips subjected to high‐frequency vibration. Firstly, static and fatigue tests are conducted on 60Si2Mn spring steel to acquire elastic modulus, tensile strength, and P‐S‐N curves. Subsequently, a CDM model is established, and numerical simulations are performed under various working conditions to obtain the fatigue characteristics of the clips. Finally, the ML model is trained using numerical simulation results, thereby establishing a mapping model between the working conditions and fatigue characteristics. The developed ML model demonstrates high accuracy in predicting the vibration fatigue life of the clips. Moreover, the Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) algorithm is employed to elucidate the ML model, revealing that the vibration frequency has a greater impact on the fatigue life of the clips compared to the vibration displacement.
Calibrating autonomy: How bureaucratic autonomy influences government quality in Brazil
Authors: Bersch Katherine , Fukuyama Francis 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe interactions between bureaucratic agencies and political actors shape governance outcomes, yet scholars disagree about how bureaucratic autonomy relates to government quality. Some claim that enhancing autonomy improves quality, whereas others maintain the opposite. An influential article by Fukuyama (2013) in Governance suggests a curvilinear relationship, moderated by capacity. This article evaluates the theory empirically, focusing on within‐country variation and two dimensions of autonomy: independence and discretion. Drawing on an original survey of over 3200 public sector workers in Brazil and administrative data on 325,000 public servants, we find evidence suggesting that the relationship between perceived autonomy and quality depends on the type of perceived autonomy and level of capacity. Public servants' perceptions of independence from political actors are associated with increased perceptions about governance quality in a linear fashion. For perceived discretion, we find initial evidence of a Goldilocks relationship: too little reduces perceptions of government quality but so does too much, especially in low‐capacity areas. Our findings offer initial evidence that may qualify claims that limiting bureaucratic discretion while increasing political oversight improves governance; instead, context may be crucial.
High‐Resolution Direct Push NMR Tools for Groundwater Investigations
Authors: Morozov Darya , Walsh David , McLaughlin Cristina , Nguyen Anh , Grunewald Elliot , Caldwell Warren , Pipp Daniel , Basore Nicholas , Christy and Thomas , Macedo Jorge 
Published: April 2024

AbstractA small‐diameter nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology optimized for use with direct push (DP) and cone penetrometer test (CPT) drilling has been developed. The DP NMR tool can be deployed through 2.25‐in. diameter DP and CPT drilling rods allowing high‐resolution NMR logging measurements to be acquired during retraction of drill rods. DP NMR technology runs from a person‐portable battery‐powered control unit and provides significantly higher resolution in both the spatial (vertical) dimension and in the time domain of the NMR measurement than previously available NMR technology. In this study, we summarize the development of two different DP NMR tools and demonstrate their application at different sites within the United States. We believe that this technology can provide a leap forward in adoption of NMR technology for high‐resolution hydrological and geophysical investigations in groundwater resources and environmental remediation applications.
The oxidation life analysis method for SiC/SiC composite components based on an equivalent diffusion coefficient model
Authors: Shi Xiaoting , Ni Zheng , Ma Wenbing , Sui Zhengqing , Yu Guoqiang , Gao Xiguang , Song Yingdong , Wang Fang 
Published: April 2024

AbstractA method for the oxidation life analysis of SiC/SiC composite structures was proposed to predict the oxidation life of ceramic matrix composite (CMC) components. In this paper, multiscale diffusion–oxidation simulation of the CMCs’ structure can be carried out by establishing the equivalent diffusion coefficient model, to get the microscopic oxidation morphology parameters at each point. Based on the results, the residual stiffness is calculated with the homogenization method. Then, the residual stiffness is taken as the material parameter of element to calculate the stress distribution after oxidation in the CMC structure. And the residual strength of CMCs was calculated by progressive damage analysis. The oxidation life of CMC component is analyzed by judging the failure condition of each element. Finally, the oxidation life prediction of the CMC adjustment sheet under specific loading environment is realized, which is about 1 200 h. The results show that this method is feasible for the calculation of hot end parts under actual complex loads.
Impact of MgCl2 on the mechanical properties of alite pastes at mesoscale and nanoscale
Authors: Sun Yanjie , Tao Yong , Pellenq Roland J. M. , Poon Chi Sun 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWhile the MgCl2 mixing alite paste causes degradation of the modulus and hardness of C–S–H formed, the underlying degradation mechanism needs to be better understood. This study comprehensively analyzed the mechanical properties of alite pastes mixed with MgCl2 solutions, examining the effects at both mesoscale and nanoscale. The in situ X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that the formation of brucite occurred at a very early age together with the formation of portlandite, which may induce a loosened packing density of C−S−H and served as the primary cause of modulus and hardness degradation. We used Bayesian statistical models to fit the nanoindentation data of C−S−H. By extrapolation at a packing fraction equal to unity, we were able to extract elastic properties (modulus and hardness) of the C−S−H nanograins. The nanoscale C−S−H elastic modulus showed no significant alterations in the mechanical properties of the C−S−H nanostructures. Atomistic simulations also suggested that Mg2+ ions preferably substitute interlayer Ca rather than intralayer Ca in C−S−H, and the Mg docking in CSH induced a very modest volume contraction.
Why geopolymers and alkali‐activated materials are key components of a sustainable world: A perspective contribution
Authors: Kriven Waltraud M. , Leonelli Cristina , Provis John L. , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Attwell Cyril , Ducman Vilma S. , Ferone Claudio , Rossignol Sylvie , Luukkonen Tero , van Deventer Jannie S. J. , Emiliano José V. , Lombardi Jérôme E. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis perspective article delves into the transformative potential of alkali‐activated materials, acid‐activated materials, and geopolymers in mitigating climate change and market challenges. To harness the benefits of these materials, a comprehensive strategy is proposed. This strategy aims to integrate these materials into existing construction regulations, facilitate certification, and promote market access. Emphasizing research and innovation, the article advocates for, increased funding to refine the chemistry and production of these materials, prioritizing low‐cost alternatives and local waste materials. Collaboration between academia and industry is encouraged to expedite technological advances and broaden applications. This article also underscores the need to develop economic and business models emphasizing the long‐term benefits of these materials, including lower life‐cycle costs and reduced environmental impact. Incentivizing adoption through financial mechanisms like tax credits and subsidies is suggested. The strategy also includes scaling up production technology, fostering industrial collaboration for commercial viability, and developing global supply chains. Educational programs for professionals and regulators are recommended to enhance awareness and adoption. Additionally, comprehensive life‐cycle assessments are proposed to demonstrate environmental benefits. The strategy culminates in expanding the applications of these materials beyond construction, fostering international collaboration for knowledge sharing, and thus positioning these materials as essential for sustainable construction and climate change mitigation.
Genetic investigations on backfat thickness and body condition score in German Holstein cattle
Authors: Schmidtmann Christin , Mugambe Julius , Blaj Iulia , Harms Carsten , Thaller Georg 
Published: April 2024

AbstractUp to now, little has been known about backfat thickness (BFT) in dairy cattle. The objective of this study was to investigate the lactation curve and genetic parameters for BFT as well as its relationship with body condition score (BCS) and milk yield (MKG). For this purpose, a dataset was analysed including phenotypic observations of 1929 German Holstein cows for BFT, BCS and MKG recorded on a single research dairy farm between September 2005 and December 2022. Additionally, pedigree and genomic information was available. Lactation curves were predicted and genetic parameters were estimated for all traits in first to third lactation using univariate random regression models. For BCS, lactation curves had nadirs at 94 DIM, 101 DIM and 107 DIM in first, second and third lactation. By contrast, trajectories of BFT showed lowest values later in lactation at 129 DIM, 117 DIM and 120 DIM in lactation numbers 1 to 3, respectively. Although lactation curves of BCS and BFT had similar shapes, the traits showed distinct sequence of curves for lactation number 2 and 3. Cows in third lactation had highest BCS, whereas highest BFT values were found for second parity animals. Average heritabilities were 0.315 ± 0.052, 0.297 ± 0.048 and 0.332 ± 0.061 for BCS in lactation number 1 to 3, respectively. Compared to that, BFT had considerably higher heritability in all lactation numbers with estimates ranging between 0.357 ± 0.028 and 0.424 ± 0.034. Pearson correlation coefficients between estimated breeding values for the 3 traits were negative between MKG with both BCS (r = −0.245 to −0.322) and BFT (r = −0.163 to −0.301). Correlation between traits BCS and BFT was positive and consistently high (r = 0.719 to 0.738). Overall, the results of this study suggest that BFT and BCS show genetic differences in dairy cattle, which might be due to differences in depletion and accumulation of body reserves measured by BFT and BCS. Therefore, routine recording of BFT on practical dairy farms could provide valuable information beyond BCS measurements and might be useful, for example, to better assess the nutritional status of cows.
Fire–climate–human dynamics over the last 1800 years in the mesic Araucaria‐Nothofagus forests
Authors: Martel‐Cea Alejandra , Abarzúa Ana M. , González Mauro E. , Jarpa Leonora , Hernández Marjorie 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAimFew palaeoenvironmental studies have been performed in Araucaria‐Nothofagus forests, which are highly vulnerable to ongoing threats from climate change and anthropogenic activities. The primary goal of this work is to reconstruct past environmental changes related to fire disturbances over the last 1800 years in Tolhuaca National Park (TNP), Chile.LocationTNP, Araucanian region (38.2°S; 71.8°W), Northwestern Patagonia, Chile.TaxaAraucaria araucana (Araucariaceae), Nothofagus spp. (Nothofagaceae).MethodsWe completed charcoal and pollen analyses to create two new palaeoecological records that span 1800 years. We compared the lake‐based reconstruction with the available local tree‐ring fire scar chronologies from the last 430 years. Using these data, we compute forest index changes, biomass burning trends and compare with estimates of archaeological radiocarbon density. We place our inferences with context of published regional palaeoclimatic proxies from the Patagonian‐Andean region.ResultsOur results showed that fire activity was higher than present between 200 and 1500 CE, with peaks around 200–400 CE and 1100–1500 CE. Periods with high fire activity are associated with reduced forest cover, as Araucaria declined when mixed‐severity fire regime occurred for extended periods. Pollen assemblages suggested a shift from dry to wet climate conditions at 1500 CE, and from 1750 CE onward, the arrival of exotic species reflected the land‐use changes related to forest clearance and transhumance practices.Main ConclusionsThe palaeoenvironmental reconstructions showed changes in vegetation, fire and climate over the past 1800 years in TNP. Wildfires have been the main disturbance process modifying the vegetation structure in the Araucaria and Nothofagus forests. Since 1750 CE intensive post‐Hispanic land‐use changes (forest clearances by fire and logging) took place in the study area, reducing the native vegetation cover. Climate variability, modulated by SAM‐like and ENSO‐like conditions, influenced the fire activity (availability and flammability of fuels), concomitantly with high archaeological density. The recent (after 2000 CE) increase of catastrophic wildfires may negatively affect the conservation strategies of Araucaria‐Nothofagus forests.
Spatial distribution pattern of male adults of Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) in lemon orchards in Northern Portugal
Authors: Costa Jaciley , Madureira Marta , Pereira José Alberto , Rodrigues Isabel 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPhyllocnistis citrella Stainton, commonly known as the citrus leafminer, threatens global citrus production. This study focuses on elucidating the population dynamics and spatial distribution of P. citrella in lemon orchards located in Northern Portugal. From May to December, using delta traps with sexual pheromones, the levels of the adult population were monitored, and aggregation indices were calculated. Five distinct density peaks are observed, with the highest recorded in late July to early August. Spatial distribution consistently indicated an aggregated pattern. However, temporal variation in distribution was observed on specific dates. According to our results, it is suggested deploying two or three traps per hectare during peak density periods. This study significantly advances our understanding of P. citrella dynamics, emphasizing the need to consider spatial and temporal patterns for effective pest management. The outcomes underscore the importance of further exploration into factors influencing distribution patterns to refine control strategies. These insights are crucial for devising targeted and efficient measures to mitigate the impact of P. citrella on citrus orchards globally.
Aquatic connectivity: challenges and solutions in a changing climate
Authors: Franklin Paul A. , Bašić Tea , Davison Phil I. , Dunkley Katie , Ellis Jonathan , Gangal Mayuresh , González‐Ferreras Alexia M. , Gutmann Roberts Catherine , Hunt Georgina , Joyce Domino , Klöcker C. Antonia , Mawer Rachel , Rittweg Timo , Stoilova Velizara , Gutowsky Lee Frank Gordon 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe challenge of managing aquatic connectivity in a changing climate is exacerbated in the presence of additional anthropogenic stressors, social factors, and economic drivers. Here we discuss these issues in the context of structural and functional connectivity for aquatic biodiversity, specifically fish, in both the freshwater and marine realms. We posit that adaptive management strategies that consider shifting baselines and the socio‐ecological implications of climate change will be required to achieve management objectives. The role of renewable energy expansion, particularly hydropower, is critically examined for its impact on connectivity. We advocate for strategic spatial planning that incorporates nature‐positive solutions, ensuring climate mitigation efforts are harmonized with biodiversity conservation. We underscore the urgency of integrating robust scientific modelling with stakeholder values to define clear, adaptive management objectives. Finally, we call for innovative monitoring and predictive decision‐making tools to navigate the uncertainties inherent in a changing climate, with the goal of ensuring the resilience and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.