bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatial Pattern of Bias in Areal Rainfall Estimations and Its Impact on Hydrological Modeling: A Comparative Analysis of Estimating Areal Rainfall Based on Radar and Weather Station Networks in South Korea
Authors: So Byung-Jin , Kim Hyung-Suk , Kwon Hyun-Han 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Areal rainfall is routinely estimated based on the observed rainfall data using distributed point rainfall gauges. However, the data collected are sparse and cannot represent the continuous rainfall distribution (or field) over a large watershed due to the limitations of weather station networks. Recent improvements in remote-sensing-based rainfall estimation facilitate more accurate and effective hydrological modeling with a continuous spatial representation of rainfall over a watershed of interest. In this study, we conducted a systematic stepwise comparison of the areal rainfalls estimated by a synoptic weather station and radar station networks throughout South Korea. The bias in the areal rainfalls computed by the automated synoptic observing system and automatic weather system networks was analyzed on an hourly basis for the year 2021. The results showed that the bias increased significantly for hydrological analysis; more importantly, the identified bias exhibited a magnitude comparable to that of the low flow. This discrepancy could potentially mislead the overall rainfall-runoff modeling process. Moreover, the areal rainfall estimated by the radar-based approach significantly differed from that estimated by the existing Thiessen Weighting approach by 4–100%, indicating that areal rainfalls from a limited number of weather stations are problematic for hydrologic studies. Our case study demonstrated that the gauging station density must be within 10 km2 on average for accurate areal rainfall estimation. This study recommends the use of radar rainfall networks to reduce uncertainties in the measurement and prediction of areal rainfalls with a limited number of ground weather station networks.
Instruction Multi-Constraint Molecular Generation Using a Teacher-Student Large Language Model
Authors: Zeng Xiangxiang , Zhou Peng , Wang Jianmin , Li Chunyan , Wang Zixu , Liu Yiping , Sun Siqi , Lin Jianxin , Wang Longyue 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
While various models and computational tools have been proposed for structure and property analysis of molecules, generating molecules that conform to all desired structures and properties remains a challenge. Here, we introduce a multi-constraint molecular generation large language model, TSMMG, which, akin to a student, incorporates knowledge from various small models and tools, namely, the 'teachers'. To train TSMMG, we construct a large set of text-molecule pairs by extracting molecular knowledge from these 'teachers', enabling it to generate novel molecules that conform to the descriptions through various text prompts. We experimentally show that TSMMG remarkably performs in generating molecules meeting complex, natural language-described property requirements across two-, three-, and four-constraint tasks, with an average molecular validity of over 99% and success ratio of 88.08%, 65.27%, and 61.44%, respectively. The model also exhibits adaptability through zero-shot testing, creating molecules that satisfy combinations of properties that have not been encountered. It can comprehend text inputs with various language styles, extending beyond the confines of outlined prompts, as confirmed through empirical validation. Additionally, the knowledge distillation feature of TSMMG contributes to the continuous enhancement of small models, while the innovative approach to dataset construction effectively addresses the issues of data scarcity and quality, which positions TSMMG as a promising tool in the domains of drug discovery and materials science.
An Exploratory Guided Push and Grasp
Authors: Tay ChiatPin , Yan ShiJun , Chen Chong , Toh WeiQi , Yuan MiaoLong , Choi DongKyu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Teaching a robot to grasp cluttered and stacked objects is a common and challenging but important research topic that can potentially benefit many real-life applications. The challenge can be addressed by incorporating pushing action into grasping strategy. To make robot capable of pushing and grasping (PG) stacked objects, deep neural network (DNN), typically reinforcement learning, has been reported widely, while the limitations of long training time and low action efficiency are still obvious. In this work, an exploratory guided pushing and grasping approach was proposed using a self-supervised technique to expedite training cycle, and a memory buffer enhancement strategy to guide the training continuously. The network architecture, data collection and learning strategy were investigated and analysed to study their effects. Comprehensive experiments were conducted on both simulation and real environment to validate the proposed solution with high action efficiency, outperforming the state-of-the-art solutions with a large margin.
Retroperitoneal Ureterolithotomy: The Preferred Surgical Method for Elderly Patients with Impacted Upper Ureteral Calculi and Infection
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Guo Jiawei , Yi Xinping , Dou Yongqi , Xiong Yongjiang , Liu Jiaji , Zhao Tao 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (FURL), retroperitoneal ureterolithotomy (RLUL), and minimally percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) are the three primary minimally invasive techniques for treating upper ureteral calculi with infection. This study sought to find out the best surgical technique for treating older patients with impacted upper ureteral calculi that were infected by examining the safety and effectiveness of three minimally invasive surgical approaches. In this investigation, the clinical data of ninety-five elderly patients treated with FURL (33), mPCNL (29), and RLUL (33), in our hospital between January 2018 and April 2023, with impacted upper ureteral calculi and infection, were retrospectively evaluated. The three groups did not significantly differ in the stone clearance rate (P > 0.05), with the RLUL group having the highest rate at 97%. The FURL group was superior to the mPCNL and RLUL groups in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative hospital stay ( P < 0.05 ), but the second operation rate ( 100% ) and hospitalization cost were the highest ( P < 0.05 ). RLUL was superior to the mPCNL and RLUL groups in the rate of secondary operation, the incidence of complications, and the cost of hospitalization ( P < 0.05 ). The complication rate of mPCNL was the highest ( 37.9% ) ( P < 0.05 ).Therefore for older patients with infection-related impacted upper ureteral calculi, FURL and RLUL are both safe and efficient surgical techniques. Further research is required to determine the safety of mPCNL. For the patients listed above, RLUL can be utilized as the preferable surgical technique due to its excellent levels of safety, efficacy, and economy.
Ethnobotanical Study of Homegarden Plants Species Diversity and Uses in Goba District Bale Zone of Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Zeleke Aberash , Ofga Benti , Megersa Moa 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
A readily accessible agricultural plant production system that is close to a home is a home garden. The purpose of this study was to record how different plant species are used in household gardens and how they are managed in the Goba District. Information was gathered from informants chosen on the advice of local development agents and elders in the community. Seventy-one home garden owners were chosen for the detailed study and data collecting on gardens. Out of the fifteen kebeles in the Goba District, the five kebeles were chosen at random. Observation, semi-structured interviews, preference rating, direct matrix ranking, and paired comparison were the methods used to gather ethno botanical data. Data analysis techniques included the use of ethno botanical data collecting, descriptive statistical approaches including densities, frequencies, relative frequencies, relative densities, Shannon, and Wiener index for species diversity. Thirty-one families comprising 67 plant species in all were gathered and identified. Of the 67 plant species that were gathered, 37 (or 55%) were herbaceous, 16 (or 24%) were tree species, 19% (or shrubby), and 2% were climbers. The majority of homes have a home garden, indicating that farmers value gardening and that it affects both household food security and revenue generating. Concerned institutions should promote the involvement of the local population and the growth of awareness through instruction or training on the sustainable use and management of plant resources.
Age and Sex Differences in the Relationship of Body Weight Changes with Colon Cancer Risks: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Kim Jae Hyun , Ko Young , Kim Hyun Jung , Park Seun Ja 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Colon cancer is a significant health concern, and obesity is a well-established risk factor. However, previous studies have mainly focused on assessing body weight as a risk factor for colon cancer at a specific time point. This nationwide cohort study investigated the association between body weight changes, which can fluctuate throughout an individual's lifespan, and the incidence of colon cancer. Participants who underwent biennial health screenings between 2004 and 2006, and had follow-up health check-ups between 2014 and 2016, were included in this study. Body weight changes were categorized as follows: < 5%, decrease 5–20%, decrease > 20%, increase 5–20%, or > 20%. The primary outcome was the incidence of newly diagnosed colon cancer. Statistical analysis was used to examine the relationship between body weight changes and the incidence of colon cancer stratified according to age and sex. The analysis included data from 10,332,397 individuals, with a mean (± SD) age of 45.5 ± 13.1 years, and 54.9% were male. In males, both a weight gain of 5–20% and weight gain > 20% were associated with an increased risk for colon cancer. In addition, males < 40 years of age exhibited a higher risk for colon cancer with > 20% weight gain. Whereas, females who exhibited > 20% weight loss demonstrated a reduced risk. Moreover, females > 40 years of age, who experienced weight loss > 20%, exhibited a decreased risk for colon cancer. This nationwide cohort study demonstrated a relationship between body weight changes and the incidence of colon cancer, with differences based on sex and age. In particular, avoiding weight gain is crucial for males < 40 years of age, whereas weight loss could be beneficial for females > 40 years of age in reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Prognostic value of receptor status conversion after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients
Authors: Uzun Mehmet , Atag Elif , Yildirim Eda Caliskan , Keser Murat , Semiz Huseyin Salih , Unal Olcun Umit 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Biomarkers such as hormone receptors (HR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor2 (HER2) found in breast cancer cells may undergo changes after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT).This study aimed to investigate receptor change rates after NACT and to determine the prognostic impact of the change.
Material and Method
: Patients with breast cancer who received NACT were included in the study. Changes in pathological findings before and after NACT were examined. In addition, the effect of receptor exchange on prognosis was evaluated.
Results
The study included 203 female patients. When pathological findings before and after NACT were compared, significant regression was found in grade and Ki-67 values (p = 0.003, p < 0.001). Estrogen receptor (ER) change rate was 11.8%, progesterone receptor (PR) change rate was 24.6% and HER-2 change rate was 12.5%. No significant correlation was found between ER and HER-2 changes and disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).
Conclusion
In patients with breast cancer, it would be appropriate to re-evaluate the HER2 and HR status of the surgical specimen following NACT, especially in initially negative patients. The correlation of receptor discordance with prognosis is not clear and more extensive studies are needed.
Causal relationship between thyroid dysfunction and carpal tunnel syndrome: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Fan , Cui Rongrong , Yin Liang , Bi Rongxiu , Xu Honghao , Wang Shilu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the bidirectional causal relationship between thyroid dysfunction (including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism) and carpal tunnel syndrome using Mendelian randomization (MR).
Methods In forward MR, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism were exposed and carpal tunnel syndrome was the outcome. Reverse MR Showed carpal tunnel syndrome as exposure, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism as outcome. Genetic loci independently associated with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and carpal tunnel syndrome were selected as instrumental variables (IV) from aggregated data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was used to analyze the causal effect, supplemented by weighted median (WME) and MR-Egger. Heterogeneity test, pleiotropy test and Leave-one-out method were used for sensitivity analysis to explore the robustness of the results.
Results Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism increased the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome (hypothyroidism: IVW,OR=1.04,95%CI= 1.01-1.08, P=0.017; Hyperthyroidism: IVW,OR=1.08,95%CI= 1.05-1.12, P= 9.218e-06), no pleiotropy was found in both tests. There was no causal association between hypothyroidism (IVW:OR=1.20,95%CI=0.80-1.81, P=0.373) and hyperthyroidism (IVW:OR=1.40,95%CI=0.74-2.63P=1.398), and no pleiotropy was found between the two.
Conclusion Patients with thyroid dysfunction have an increased risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome has no significant effect on hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Infiltrative Anesthesia With Lidocaine Can Replace the Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block in Extraction of Devitalized Mandibular Molar Teeth
Authors: GULTEKIN Halim , Isik Bozkurt , GULTEKIN Didem 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose: In dental education, it has been traditionally emphasized that inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) is essential for extracting lower molars. However, it is also known that dental implants can be placed in the same region using only infiltrative anaesthesia (IA). We hypothesize that there is no difference in anesthesia requirements between the extraction of a devitalized tooth and the placement of an implant. Therefore, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of IANB and IA in the extraction of devitalized mandibular molars.
Methods: This study was a prospective, randomized, and non-blinded clinical trial. Sixty patients over the age of 18, each with a mandibular first or second molar that had previously undergone root canal treatment, were included. They were randomly assigned to either the study or control groups. An anesthetic solution containing lidocaine and epinephrine was employed. In the study group, only vestibular and lingual IA were used, while the control group received IANB. Pain experienced during the injection and extraction was recorded separately. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney U test and Spearman correlation analysis, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: There was no significant difference between the two anaesthesia techniques in terms of injection or extraction pain (p>0.05). Gender and whether the tooth was a first or second molar did not influence the pain experienced.
Conclusions: Mandibular molars that have previously undergone root canal treatment can be extracted using buccal and lingual IA instead of IANB. This approach may also apply to other devitalized mandibular molars.
ALL-IN-ONE snare for hybrid endoscopic submucosal dissection versus conventional technology: A matched study in porcine model (with video)
Authors: Yang Lang , Ma Xian-zong , Su Hui , Zhang Jie , Sheng Jian-qiu , Jin Peng 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background and Objective This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficiency of hybrid endoscopic submucosal dissection (H-ESD) using a newly developed ALL-IN-ONE (AIO) snare.
Methods This was a matched control study in a porcine model. Five paired simulated stomach lesions 2–2.5 cm in size were removed by H-ESD using an AIO snare or conventional ESD (C-ESD) using an endoscopic knife. The outcomes of the two procedures were compared, including en bloc resection rates, procedure times, intraprocedural bleeding volumes, muscular injuries, perforations, thicknesses of the submucosal layer in resected specimens, and stomach defects.
Results All simulated lesions were resected en bloc. Specimens resected by H-ESD and C-ESD were similar in size (7.68±2.92 vs. 8.42±2.42 cm2; P = 0.676). H-ESD required a significantly shorter procedure time (13.39±3.78 vs. 25.99±4.52 min; P = 0.031) and submucosal dissection time (3.99±1.73 vs. 13.1±4.58 min; P = 0.003) versus C-ESD; H-ESD also yielded a faster dissection speed (241.37±156.84 vs. 68.56±28.53 mm2/min; P = 0.042) and caused fewer intraprocedural bleeding events (0.40±0.55 vs. 3.40±1.95 times/per lesion; P = 0.016) than C-ESD. The thicknesses of the submucosal layer of the resected specimen (1190.98±134.07 vs. 1055.90±151.76 μm; P = 0.174) and the residual submucosal layer of the stomach defect (1607.94±1026.74 vs. 985.98±445.58 μm; P = 0.249) were similar with both procedures.
Conclusion The AIO snare is a safe and effective device for H-ESD and improves the treatment outcomes of gastric lesions by shortening the procedure time.
Delayed diagnosis of Turner syndrome with diabetes retinopathy and diabetes nephropathy：A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Chen Mengzhu , Ling Li , Huang Mengqi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Turner syndrome is a rare condition in women that is associated with either complete or partial loss of one X chromosome. We present a pateint that missed treatment opportunity due to delayed diagnosis, with multiple serious complications. Patients and their families are not vigilant enough to early symptoms of growth retardation, delayed puberty and even infertility. We should pay attention to early diagnosis and treatment of rare disease patients.
Exercise-Induced Changes in Aging Mouse Hippocampus: A Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis
Authors: Huang Xiaohan , Li Xue , Jin Yu , Wei Changling , Zhang Yuanting 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to investigate the effects of physical exercise on learning, memory, and cellular dynamics in the hippocampus of aged mice, exploring the potential of exercise as a non-pharmacological intervention to mitigate age-related cognitive decline.
Methods
Eighteen 15-month-old C57BL/6J mice were divided into an aging group (O-Ctrl) and an aging exercise group (O-Ex), with 3-month-old young mice serving as controls (Y-Ctrl). The O-Ex group underwent an 8-week low-intensity exercise protocol. Post-exercise, all groups were assessed using the Barnes maze test for spatial learning and memory. Single-cell transcriptomic sequencing was performed on hippocampal tissues to identify changes in cell populations and gene expression.
Results
Exercise significantly reduced escape latency in the O-Ex group compared to O-Ctrl, indicating improved learning and memory. Sequencing revealed ten distinct cell types in the hippocampus with exercise reversing aging-induced alterations in astrocytes/neural stem cells (AST/NSCs) and neuronal populations. Differential gene expression analysis highlighted changes in key genes such as Apoe, Fkbp5, Ccnd3, AKT3, Zbtb16, and SIc24a4. Immunofluorescence assays corroborated these findings, showing a decrease in GFAP-positive astrocytes in exercised-aged mice
Conclusion
Our findings demonstrate that exercise can significantly improve cognitive functions in aged mice, potentially through modulating hippocampal cell populations and gene expression profiles. These results suggest that physical activity could be a viable strategy to delay or prevent age-related cognitive decline, offering insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Effect of applications of oregano and thyme essential oils in Glycine max seeds against bacterial blight caused by Pseudomonas savastanoi
Authors: Sotelo Jesica Paola , Carezzano María Evangelina , Rovey María Fernanda Paletti , Oddino Claudio , Bogino Pablo , Oliva María de las Mercedes 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Pseudomonas savastanoi is the causal agent of bacterial blight in Glycine max. One of the routes of transmission of this pathogen is through seeds. Therefore, treating seeds with compounds that reduce bacterial proliferation represents an appealing solution to prevent production losses. Currently, studies focus on the search for natural products derived from aromatic plants with antimicrobial properties as effective and environmentally prudent alternatives. This study aims to further investigate the efficacy of oregano and thyme essential oils in treating seeds against this pathogen. In a previous study, greenhouse trials were conducted using thyme oil. In this research, greenhouse trials were performed using oregano essential oil, and field trials were conducted for both oils. In both oils, a non-phytotoxic concentration of 0.89 mg/ml for oregano essential oil and 1.76 mg/ml for thyme essential oil was determined. Both essential oils reduced the incidence and severity of the disease and the number of cells in the seeds, showing that thyme oil has a better effect than oregano under controlled conditions and in the field. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the efficiency of natural products in reducing pathogenic bacteria in seeds, representing a new natural alternative to control these microorganisms.
Self-efficacy and Other Predictors in GPA among College Students, Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Poudel Dev Bandhu , Acharya Samjhana 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We observed General Self-efficacy in 527 student participants from Kathmandu valley, studying in different levels, faculties, years and institutions. The students participated from different ages, genders, ethnicities, religious affiliations, marital status, residence, education levels, faculties, varieties of institutions, year of study, employment status of students. Our objective was to analyse the level of general self-efficacy among demographic groups and observe the variables that predicts GPA. We also aimed to find the reliability scores of the items in the scale. We found no relationship of demographic variables with general self-efficacy except the religious affiliations where Buddhists had significantly lower general self-efficacy than Hindu. The general self-efficacy was found to have no impact on GPA. We observed age, gender, marital status, residential location, year of study, employment status as non-predictors of GPA; however, ethnicity (i.e., Janajati), religion (i.e., Buddhists), education level (i.e., high school), education faculty (i.e., mamagement), type of institution (i.e., private) can predict GPA. The reliability score was observed to have been acceptable and the tool demonstrate moderate livel of convergent validity. Future studies must investigate discrepancy in self-efficacy among religious groups to enhance relevant educational strategies.