bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Survival of Lung Cancer Patients Considering Criteria for Lung Cancer Screening: Analysis of the Korean Lung Cancer Registry, 2014-2016
Authors: Lee Sangwon , Park Eun Hye , Jang Bo Yun , Kang Ye Ji , Jung Kyu-Won , Cha Hyo Soung , Choi Kui Son 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: This study compared survival between lung cancer patients meeting criteria for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program in Korea launched in 2019 and expanded US Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations.
Methods: We assessed all-cause mortality based on the Korean Lung Cancer Registry (KLCR), including lung cancer patients diagnosed in 2014–2016. We compared survival among lung cancer patients eligible for extended USPSTF criteria (age 50–80 years and ≥20 pack-years) and those meeting current criteria (age 54–74 years and ≥30 pack-years, current or within the past 15 years). The nearest neighbor propensity-score matching was performed to generate a matched set. Kaplan–Meier curves were generated to compare survival among groups; differences in survival were analyzed using the stratified log-rank test. The mortality risk was estimated based on a Cox proportional hazards regression model and the robust standard error was calculated.
Results: Of 8110 patients, 40·4% and 25·4% met the extended USPSTF eligibility criteria and National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) criteria, respectively. Overall mortality risk was not significantly different between the extended younger age group and the NLCSP group (hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0·96 [0·72–1·28]). The extended older age group had a significantly higher mortality risk (HR [95% CI]: 1·38 [1·24–1·54]). Mortality risk was not significantly different between patients who smoked 20–29 pack-years and those who smoked ≥30 pack-years (HR [95% CI]: 0·90 [0·79–1·02]).
Conclusion: Lung cancer patients aged 50–53 years and those with a 20–29 pack-years smoking history exhibited similar mortality risk to individuals meeting current criteria, while patients aged 75–80 years were at a higher risk of death. Although we verified similar or higher mortality risks in extended subgroups, a careful assessment of the benefits and harms of the screening tests is necessary when contemplating the extension of criteria.
Beyond Predictions: An Interpretable Machine Learning Approach for Battery Performance Forecasting
Authors: Kim Jieun , Choi Injun , Kim Ju Seong , Hwang Hyokkee , Park Inchul 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Lithium-rich layered oxide (LRLO) hold great promise as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries, but they face challenges due to their complex electrochemical behavior and structural instability. This study proposes an analysis framework using unsupervised learning via Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to improve the predictability and reliability of these materials. By applying PCA, we have identified key factors affecting their electrochemical performance and degradation mechanisms. This has enabled us to easily separate and elucidate oxygen and manganese redox reactions in the low-voltage range, thereby improving our understanding of how the evolution of these reactions affects the degradation of LRLO materials. The PCA-based approach proves to be highly effective in predicting performance and identifying degradation pathways, making a significant advance in the understanding and optimization of these cathodes. These findings represent a step forward in quantifying the mechanisms of electrode materials, which requires the development of models that integrate domain knowledge with data.
A Low-Profile Patch-Loaded Ring Antenna with Wide Frequency Tuning Capability for Dual-Band Metal-Mountable Tag Design
Authors: Murugesh Muthukannan , Rahim Sharul Kamal Abdul , Lim Eng-Hock , Chee Pei-Song 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

A low-profile ring antenna (39 mm × 39 mm × 1.38 mm), which is loaded with a circular patch at the central region for frequency tuning purposes, has been proposed for anti-metal applications that operate in the Lower European (LEu) and the North American (NA) UHF-RFID passbands. The antenna itself consists of a square ring as well as a hexagonal ring, all of which can be fully made on a single-layer substrate, and they are concentrically stacked for generating a stable broadside radiation pattern on metal surface. The dimensions of the rings can be adjusted to achieve efficient frequency tuning capability, with conjugate impedance matching over the two operating frequencies. The proposed tag antenna is simple and it does not require the use of other complex tuning mechanisms. Independent frequency tuning is possible in the two passbands. With 4W Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP), it can achieve long read ranges of 8 m and 9 m, respectively, over the LEu and NA UHF-RFID passbands. A detailed analysis was conducted to understand the resonance characteristics, and a Transmission Line (TL) model was constructed to facilitate the design of the tag antenna. It is important to highlight that the two tag resonant frequencies are stable and not much affected by the presence of the backing metallic object.
Snail hosts abundance mediates the effects of antagonist interactions between trematodes on the transmission of human schistosomes.
Authors: Douchet Philippe , Haegeman Bart , Allienne Jean-François , Boissier Jérôme , Senghor Bruno , Rey Olivier 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Combating infectious diseases and halting biodiversity loss are intertwined challenges crucial to ensure global health. Biodiversity can constrain the spread of vector-borne pathogens circulation, necessitating a deeper understanding of ecological mechanisms underlying this pattern. Our study evaluates the relative importance of biodiversity and the abundance of Bulinus truncatus, a major intermediate host for the trematode Schistosoma haematobium on the circulation of this human pathogen at aquatic transmission sites.
Methods: We combined mathematical modelling and a molecular based empirical study to specifically assess the effect of co-infections between S. haematobium and other trematodes within their B. truncatus snail hosts; and B. truncatus abundance at transmission sites, on the production of S. haematobium infective cercariae stages released into the aquatic environment.
Results: Our modelling approach shows that more competitive trematode species exploiting B. truncatus as an intermediate host at the transmission site level leads to higher co-infection rates within snail hosts, subsequently reducing the production of S. haematobium cercariae. Conversely, an increase in B. truncatus abundance results in lower co-infection rates, and a higher proportion of S. haematobium cercariae released into the environment. Our empirical data from the field support these findings, indicating a significant negative effect of local trematode species richness and co-infection rates on the dominance of S. haematobium, while B. truncatus abundance positively influences S. haematobium dominance.
Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of biodiversity in influencing the transmission of S. haematobium through the effect of antagonistic interactions between trematodes within bulinid snail hosts. This effect intensifies when B. truncatus populations are low, promoting co-infections within snails. In line with the need for concrete applications of the One Health concept, we advocate for maintaining high global freshwater biodiversity to sustain global trematode diversity at transmission sites, offering a cost-effective means to significantly reduce schistosome prevalence and intensity while preserving aquatic ecosystem services.
Significant role of secondary electrons in the formation of a multi-body chemical species spur produced by water radiolysis
Authors: Kai Takeshi , Toigawa Tomohiro , Matsuya Yusuke , Hirata Yuho , Tezuka Tomoya , Tsuchida Hidetsugu , Yokoya Akinari 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Scientific insights into water photolysis and radiolysis are essential for estimating the direct and indirect effects of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage. Secondary electrons from radiolysis intricately associated with both effects. Herein, we simulate the femtosecond (1 × 10− 15 s) dynamics of secondary electrons ejected by energy depositions of 20−30 eV into water via high-energy electron transport using a time-dependent first-principles simulation code. The simulation results present the earliest formation mechanism of an unclear multi-body chemical species spur when secondary electrons induce further ionisations or electronic excitations. The formation involves electron–water collisions, i.e. ionisation, electronic excitation, molecular excitation and elastic scattering. Our simulation results indicate that (1) most secondary electrons delocalise to ~ 12 nm, and multiple collisions are sometimes induced in a water molecule at 22 eV deposition energy. (2) The secondary electrons begin to induce diffuse band excitation of water around a few nm from the initial energy deposition site and delocalise to ~ 8 nm at deposition energies ~ 25 eV. (3) The secondary electron can cause one additional ionisation or electronic excitation at deposition energies > 30 eV, forming a multi-body chemical species spur. Thus, we propose that the type and density of chemical species produced by water radiolysis strongly depend on the deposition energy. These findings provide significant chemical and biological insights into the formation of multiple DNA damage, believed to induce the latter biological effects, such as cell death, mutation or carcinogenesis.
Evaluating Water Quality, Mineralization Mechanisms, and Potential Health Risks of Nitrate Contamination in the Continental Intercalaire Aquifer of Reggane, Algeria
Authors: Bouselsal Boualem , Satouh Adel , Egbueri Johnbosco C. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In the Reggane arid region, the Continental Intercalaire (CI) aquifer plays a critical role as a water source, meeting daily water needs such as drinking, domestic use, and agricultural usage. This study assessed the hydrogeochemical characteristics influencing water mineralization, the overall quality of the groundwater in the CI aquifer for consumption and irrigation usage, and identifies possible chronic health risks for different age groups. To this end, groundwater samples were collected and analyzed for various physicochemical parameters. The assessment tools used include graphical plots, statistical analyses, groundwater pollution index (GPI), nitrate pollution index (NPI), health risk assessment (HRA) model, and irrigation water quality index (IWQI). GPI analysis reveals that 16%, 40%, and 44% of CI aquifer samples are classified with moderate, high, and extremely high pollution, respectively. The NPI method indicates that nitrate pollution levels fall into three categories: moderate (12%), significant (36%), and very significant (49%). HRA results showed that human health risks varied between 3.13 and 10.46 for children, 2.47 and 8.27 for teenagers, and 1.61 and 5.38 for adults, signifying an high risk that spanned all age demographics in the region. Regarding agricultural use, IWQI indicates that water from all studied wells is highly unsuitable for irrigation, potentially harming both soils and plant growth. Hydrochemical analysis by Piper diagram suggested a water type evolution from Na-Cl upstream to Ca-Mg-Cl downstream. Other analytical tools, like Gibbs diagrams, scatter plots, chloro-alkaline indices, saturation indices and multivariate statistical tools, indicated that the hydrochemistry is mainly influenced by interactions with aquifer materials, notably silicate weathering, halite and gypsum dissolution, and cation exchange processes. The study also revealed that the presence of nitrates is primarily attributable to domestic effluents from residential areas.
WTAP accelerates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression by regulating CCND1 through MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Hong , Zhang Xiaojing , Zhang Yan , Wu Jianhua , Li Jiali , Shan Baoen 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, as a new regulatory mechanism, has been reported to be involved in diverse biological processes in recent years. Wilms tumor 1-associated protein (WTAP), as the key member of m6A methylation, has been proved to participate in the tumorigenesis. Here, we studied the expression of WTAP and its potential mechanism involved in the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We detected the expression of WTAP and its correlation with clinicopathological features, and we determined the function of WTAP on ESCC cells by MTS assay, colony formation, scratch wound healing assay, transwell assays and subcutaneous xenograft assay. We used mRNA sequencing technology to screen candidate downstream targets for WTAP, and investigated the underlying mechanism of CCND1 in ESCC promotion through a series of rescue assays. An elevated expression of WTAP in ESCC malignancy indicated a worse prognosis. WTAP promoted proliferation and metastasis of ESCC cells and CCND1 was identified as the potential downstream effecter of WTAP. Moreover, WTAP modulated ESCC progression through MAPK pathway-dependent pattern. Our research suggested that WTAP promoted both proliferation and metastasis of ESCC by accelerating the expression of CCND1 via MAPK signaling pathway, indicating that WTAP may be a candidate prognostic biomarker for ESCC and also will be a promising strategy for ESCC cancer therapy.
A novel long non-coding RNA WASIR2 regulates MEX3A expression by sponging miR-374b-5p and promotes lung adenocarcinoma progression
Authors: Fang Xisheng , Liu Xia , Wang Lina , Weng Chengyin , Xu Lin , Wu Yong , Li Baoxiu , Mao Haibo , Lu Lin , Liu Guolong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play important roles in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the expressions and function of lncRNA WASIR2 remain largely unknown in LUAD.
Methods
Differential expression of WASIR2, miR-374b-5p and MEX3A between LUAD tumor tissues and normal tissues were analyzed according to The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, GEPIA online tool and our own clinical specimens. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to investigate their prognostic value in LUAD. CCK8 assay was performed to evaluate the cell proliferation ability. Transwell assay was used to evaluate cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, a luciferase reporter assay was performed to explore the target of WASIR2.
Results
WASIR2 expression was significantly upregulated in LUAD tumor tissues. Upregulated expression of WASIR2 was correlated with poor overall survival. Gain-of and loss-of function assays showed that overexpression of WASIR2 promoted tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while silencing of WASIR2 inhibited these effects. Mechanistically, WASIR2 upregulated the expression of MEX3A by directly binding to miR-374b-5p. Rescue assays showed that miR-374b-5p could reverse the effects of WASIR2 on cell proliferation, migration and invasion.
Conclusion
Together, our study demonstrated that WASIR2 could promote the progression of lung adenocarcinoma through upregulating MEX3A expression by sponging miR-374b-5p. This study provides novel evidence that WASIR2 could be viewed as a prognostic factor and therapeutic target in LUAD.
Potential of different governance mechanisms for achieving Global Biodiversity Framework goals
Authors: Negret Pablo Jose , Rincon Victor , Novoa Sidney , Quispe Marvin , Valdés-Velásquez Armando , Forero-Medina German , Amano Tatsuya , Saravia Miguel , Schleicher Judith , Zaehringer Julie Gwendolin 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework includes a target of 30% of land protected by 2030 and refers to other effective area based conservation measures (OECMs) as complementary to PAs, but robust evaluations of the effectiveness of governance mechanisms that could act as OECMs in preventing forest loss and carbon emissions remain sparse. Here we assessed the impact of PAs and two potential OECMS: Indigenous Lands (ILs), and Non-Timber Forest products Concessions (NTCs) on forest loss and its associated carbon emissions in the Peruvian Amazon from 2000 to 2021. We also assessed two governance mechanisms with a commercial extractive use, Logging (LCs) and Mining Concessions (MCs). We used a robust before–after control intervention study design, with statistical matching, to account for the non-random spatial distribution of deforestation pressure and the governance mechanisms analysed. PAs were the most effective, having avoided 88% of the expected forest loss, followed by NTCs (64%) and ILs (44%). LCs also reduced expected forest loss by 29%, while MCs increased expected forest loss by 24%, showing that extractive governance mechanisms can have marked differences in their impact to forest cover. Our study provides evidence of long-term positive impacts of potential OECMs and other mechanisms at preventing forest loss and reducing carbon emission. This information is key to more effectively achieve targets from the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Surgical management of injuries to the abdomen in patients with multiple and/or severe trauma – A systematic review and clinical practice guideline update
Authors: Güsgen Christoph , Breuing Jessica , Prediger Barbara , Schwab Robert 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Our aim was to update evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations for the surgical management of abdominal injuries in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries based on current evidence. This guideline topic is part of the 2022 update of the German Guideline on the Treatment of Patients with Multiple and/or Severe Injuries.
Methods
MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched to May 2021. Further literature reports were obtained from clinical experts. Randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional studies and comparative registry studies were included if they compared interventions for the surgical management of abdominal injuries in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries. We considered patient-relevant clinical outcomes such as mortality, length of stay, and diagnostic test accuracy. Risk of bias was assessed using NICE 2012 checklists. The evidence was synthesised narratively, and expert consensus was used to develop recommendations and determine their strength.
Results
Three studies were identified. The topics of these studies were nonoperative management in haemodynamically stable patients with isolated blunt hepatic (n = 1) or splenic injuries (n = 1) and selective angioembolisation (n = 1). None of the recommendations were modified, one new recommendation was developed, and one was deleted based on the updated evidence and expert consensus. All recommendations achieved strong consensus.
Conclusion
The following recommendations are made. All but one of the previous guideline recommendations were confirmed. The recommendation to perform diagnostic peritoneal lavage in exceptional cases was completely deleted. An additional recommendation was made and states that diagnostic laparoscopy be performed in haemodynamically stable patients with penetrating trauma when there is therapeutic uncertainty.
Romantic relations, sexuality and intimacy among young adults and adolescents with severe mental illness, intellectual disability and Down syndrome: a review of the literature
Authors: Belluzzo Miriam , Esposito Camilla , De Alfieri Erica , Giaquinto Veronica , Volpe Daniela , Amodeo Anna Lisa 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Although sexual health and well-being have gained recognition as vital parts of a person’s overall well-being despite possible conditions of disability, individuals with severe mental illness, as well as people with intellectual disability and Down syndrome, especially adolescents and young adults, often face stigma and human rights violations which, in association with the specific nature of their clinical condition, impacting their self-esteem and the ability to form meaningful relationships and express their own sexuality.
Methods
Prioritizing the perspective of young people themselves with diagnoses of severe mental illness (schizophrenic spectrum disorders and psychosis), intellectual disability and Down syndrome, electronic databases were consulted and articles published in English concerning sexuality, intimacy and romantic relations were included. The only exception is a study in Spanish included due to its consistent relevance with the aim of the review. The reference sections of the relevant articles were reviewed for additional pertinent publications.
Results
A total of 32 studies were included and analyzed, showing that sexual and reproductive health of individuals with severe mental illness, intellectual disability and Down syndrome, particularly adolescents and young adults, is notably poorer compared to the general population. In the case of severe mental illness and mild intellectual disability, this disparity leads to increased vulnerability, including gender-based violence, risky sexual behavior, and exploitation, compounded by self-stigmatization, social isolation, and cognitive deficits inherent these disorders, impacting emotional and sexual well-being. Similarly, individuals with severe intellectual disability, including Down syndrome, exhibit greater interest in social interactions struggling to understand social boundaries facing risks of exploitation and victimization, due to the lack of appropriate sex education.
Conclusions
Despite the contemporary advancements in treatment modalities and increased understanding, individuals with severe mental illness, intellectual disabilities and Down syndrome, face significant challenges in their sexual lives. Societal misconceptions perpetuate the denial of appropriate sex education and reproductive choices, leaving those individuals vulnerable to victimization. Addressing these needs through comprehensive education and support is crucial to mitigate risks and improve overall well-being.
Loss-of-function mutation in the polyamine transporter gene OsLAT5 as a potential selectable marker for genome editing
Authors: Schenstnyi Kyrylo , Zhang Zhengzhi , Liu Bo , Nakamura Masayoshi , Schepler-Luu Van , Loo Eliza P.I. , Yang Bing , Frommer Wolf B. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Genome editing by TALENs and CRISPR/Cas has become routine tools. During stable plant transformation, genes coding for editing enzymes, e.g., Cas9, guide RNAs (gRNA), and selectable markers are integrated into the nuclear genome. Identification of successful transformants relies on selectable or screenable markers, typically genes providing resistance to herbicides or antibiotics. Selectable markers use a substantial portion of the T-DNA, hence reducing transfer efficiency by limiting the effective number of TALENs or guide/pegRNAs that can be used. Marker genes are frequently subject to gene silencing. Here, we generated loss-of-function mutations in PUT/LAT-type polyamine transporter family genes to confer resistance to methylviologen (MV). As proof of concept, CRISPR/Cas9 constructs with gRNAs were constructed to target three close homologs OsLAT1, OsLAT5, and OsLAT7. Loss of OsLAT5(also known as OsPUT3 or OsPAR1) function was sufficient to confer resistance to MV in rice seeds, seedlings and calli, validating the editing approach of OsLAT5 to obtain a selectable marker. We discuss use of a gRNA cassette (OsLAT5) as selectable marker and reporter for successful genome editing for optimizing editing protocols.