bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cryosphere tipping elements decisive for tipping risks and cascading effects in the Earth system
Authors: Rosser Jonathan , Winkelmann Ricarda , Wunderling Nico 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The Earth's climate system is a complex system that includes key components such as the Arctic Summer Sea Ice or the El Niño Southern Oscillation as well as climate tipping elements like the continental-scale ice sheets or the Amazon rainforest. Crossing warming thresholds of these elements can lead to a qualitatively different climate state, endangering the stability of human societies. Particularly, the cryosphere elements are vulnerable at current levels of global warming (1.2°C) while also having long response times and large structural uncertainties. Investigating a network of interacting Earth system components using an established conceptual model, we systematically assess which uncertainties of key Earth system component have the largest impacts on tipping risks. We find that the cryosphere tipping elements (the Greenland and the West Antarctica ice sheets) are most decisive for tipping risks and cascading effects within our model. At a global warming level of 1.5°C, neglecting the large cryosphere tipping elements can reduce the mean number of disintegrated Earth system components by as much as 56%. This is concerning as overshooting 1.5°C of global warming is fast becoming inevitable, while current state-of-the-art IPCC-type global circulation models do not (yet) include dynamic ice sheets. Our results suggest that urgent integrated Earth system model development and Earth observation efforts including the large polar ice sheets are necessary and a precautionary measure of meeting stringent climate targets is crucial to limit tipping risks.
Detection of viruses in special stands of common ash reveals insights into the virome of Fraxinus excelsior
Authors: Rehanek Marius , Kubrusli Rim Al , Köpke Kira , von Bargen Susanne , Büttner Carmen 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
We report the results of a virus screening conducted on selected special stands of common ash (Fraxinus excelsior) within the FraxVir project. This project among others deals with the recording and assessment of the virus diversity in common ash and the impact of the ash virome on ash dieback diseased trees. Ash dieback, a fungal disease caused by the invasive fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus is a major threat to Fraxinus excelsior populations across Europe. Over three consecutive years, ash trees from different origins were tested including leaf material from mother trees and seedlings from the natural regeneration as well as fruits to gain insight into possible modes of virus transmission. Using RT-PCR, we screened for five viruses, including the generalist species arabis mosaic virus and cherry leaf roll virus, as well as newly discovered viruses in ash including an emaravirus, an idaeovirus and viruses of the cytorhabdovirus group. Amplification and comparison of PCR amplicons comprising the nucleocapsid region revealed sequence diversities that confirm two distinct cytorhadovirus species present in different populations of common ash. Signatures of novel viruses from different families have been identified by high-throughput sequencing. Together our results provide insights into the virus diversity and distribution of viruses in ash and expand our knowledge about the virome of this endangered tree species.
Routing Networking Technology Based on Improved Ant Colony Algorithm in Space-Air-Ground Integrated Network
Authors: Nie Wuzhou , Chen Yong , Wang Yuhao , Wang Peizheng , Li Meng , Ning Lei 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Space-Air-Ground Integrated networks comprise a multi-level heterogeneous integrated network that combines satellite-based, aerial, and terrestrial networks. With the increasing human exploration of space and growing demands for internet applications, Space-Air-Ground Integrated networks have gradually emerged as the direction for communication network development. These networks face various challenges such as extensive coverage, diverse communication node types, low-quality communication links, and simultaneous operation of multiple network protocols. However, the rapid development and widespread application of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in recent years have offered new perspectives and solutions for the communication architecture and routing algorithm research within Space-Air-Ground Integrated networks. In these networks, not all nodes can typically communicate directly with satellites; instead, a specific set of specialized communication nodes facilitates data communication between aerial and satellite networks due to their superior communication capabilities. Consequently, in contrast to traditional communication architectures, Space-Air-Ground Integrated networks, particularly in the terrestrial layer, often need to address challenges related to the diversity of communication node types and low-quality communication links. A well-designed routing approach becomes crucial in addressing these issues.
Therefore, this paper proposes an AODV routing network protocol based on an Improved Ant Colony Algorithm (AC-AODV), specifically designed for the terrestrial layer within the Space-Air-Ground Integrated networks. By integrating information such as the type, energy, and location of communication nodes, this protocol aims to facilitate network communication. The objective is to guide information flow through nodes that are more suitable for communication, either by relaying communication or by connecting with satellites through specialized nodes. This approach alleviates the burden on ordinary nodes within the terrestrial communication network, thereby enhancing the overall network performance. In this protocol, specialized nodes hold a higher forwarding priority than regular nodes. When a source node needs to transmit data, it enters the route discovery phase, utilizing its own type, location, and energy information as heuristic data to calculate forwarding probabilities. Subsequently, it broadcasts route request (RREQ) messages to find the path. Upon receiving the RREQ message, the destination node sends an RREP message for updating information elements and selects the optimal path based on these information elements. Compared to AODV, AC-AODV shows significant improvements in performance metrics such as transmission latency, throughput, energy conversion rate, and packet loss rate.
Preventive effect of Lactobacillus johnsonii YH1136 against uric acid accumulation and renal damages
Authors: Zhang Xingting , Sun Ning , Xin Jinge , Jiang Junliang , Gan Baoxing , Jiang Yi , Gong Xuemei , Zhao Zhifang , Chen Yu , Li Hao , Ma Hailin , Ni Xueqin , Bai Yang , Wang Hesong 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a prevalent metabolic disorder globally, and its development is increasingly associated with intestinal microbiota. Therefore, probiotics have emerged as a potential and safe approach for lowering uric acid (UA) levels. However, effective probiotic strains and the underlying mechanism remain unknown. Therefore, this study aims to investigate microbiota alterations in each intestinal segment during HUA to identify the most affected segment and potential probiotic strains. Whole intestinal diversity was significantly decreased in the model group than in the control, with the most significant decrease in the cecum and colon. Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Actinobacteriota were the dominant phyla common to the control and model groups, whereas Bacteroidota was more dominant in the colon of the model group than in the control group. In the RDA analysis, Lactobacillus in the colon and the model group exhibited a strong correlation, suggesting that Lactobacillus may play an important role in HUA. Consequently, Lactobacillus johnsonii YH1136 was used to assess its preventive effects against HUA. The results showed that Lactobacillus johnsonii YH1136 administration effectively reduced serum UA levels in vivo, mainly inhibiting hepatic xanthine oxidas(XOD) activity and promoting renal ABCG2 transporter expression.Moreover, increased colonization using Lactobacillus johnsonii YH1136 significantly ameliorated pathological damage in the kidney and liver, causing UA accumulation. These findings highlight the potential significance of Lactobacillus as a connection between HUA and the gut microbiota, providing compelling evidence for Lactobacillus johnsonii YH1136 as a potential treatment for HUA.
The congenital hearing phenotype in GJB2 in Queensland, Australia: V37I and mild hearing loss predominates
Authors: Liddle Karen , Kriukelis Rebecca , Gabbett Michael , Beswick Rachael , McInerney-Leo Aideen , Driscoll Carlie 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Guidelines recommend GJB2 (connexin 26) and GJB6 (connexin 30) testing for bilateral non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). However, associated audiological phenotypes vary. There is limited Australian data on GJB2 variant frequency and associated phenotypes. Audiograms from a paediatric cohort with SNHL, predominantly identified through newborn hearing screening and carrying GJB2 variants and/or a GJB6 deletion (GJB6-D13S11830) were retrospectively reviewed (n = 127). Two thirds were homozygous or compound heterozygous for pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants of GJB2 and/or GJB6 (n = 80). The most frequent variant, c.109G > A, occurred in homozygous (n = 32), compound heterozygous (n = 8) and heterozygous (n = 5) states. Compared to homozygous/compound heterozygous carriage of other GJB2 variants, c.109G > A positive individuals (homozygous/compound heterozygous) were more likely to have mild HL at their initial (p = 0.00004) and latest audiograms (p = 0.0004). Homozygous/compound heterozygous carriage of c.35delG was associated with moderately-severe or greater HL at both initial (p = 0.007) and latest (p = 0.007) audiograms. The c.101T > C variant presented with milder HL and U-shaped audiograms (p = 0.02). In this agnostically identified cohort, mild HL predominated in GJB2/GJB6 carriers in contrast to previous studies targeting individuals with significant loss. Consequently, c.109G > A, associated with milder phenotypes, was the most frequent. This data provides valuable, balanced prognostic information for preconception, prenatal and paediatric counselling of couples and families carrying these variants.
Ceratocystis fimbriata causing canker and wilt disease on West Indian mahogany trees in Indonesia
Authors: MUSLIM A , Suwandi Suwandi , Pratama Rahmat , Gunawan Bambang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Between 2021 and 2023, a new disease affecting West Indian mahogany plants emerged in South Sumatra, Indonesia. The disease's incidence steadily increased, particularly in Palembang (Jakabaring), where it rose from 0.27–0.46%, and in Bukit Siguntang, increasing from 0–0.73%. In Ogan Ilir Regency (Universitas Sriwijaya), the incidence increased from 2.07–4.71%, and in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency (Celika) the incidence rose from 6.77–15.25%. Initial symptoms of this disease on the plant's stem included canker formation, gum exudation, vascular tissue discoloration, leaf wilting, and eventual plant death. The fungus was isolated from symptomatic vascular tree tissue and confirmed as a pathogen following Koch's postulates. Pathogen identification used a polyphasic approach, combining morphological and molecular characteristics from specific genomic regions (ITS and β-tubulin). Morphological traits and phylogenetic analysis identified the isolate as Ceratocystis fimbriata. Genomic sequences based on ITS revealed that the MHC2 isolate belonged to haplotype ITS7b, while the other four isolates (MHC1, MHC3, MHC4, and MHC5) were in haplotype ITS5. Thus far, C. fimbriata has not been identified as the cause of cankers and wilting in West Indian mahogany trees in Indonesia. Pathogenicity tests have demonstrated that the pathogen causes death in mahogany trees, as well as in Acacia, bullet wood, and jackfruit plants, indicating its potential to affect other agroforestry plants and pose a threat to the biodiversity of indigenous plants in South Sumatra, Indonesia.
A new model-based participatory approach to resolve land use competition in the energy transition: A case study of ground-mounted photovoltaics in a German municipality
Authors: Rösch Christine , Fakharizadehshirazi Elham 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The German government requires states to set aside at least 2% of their land for renewable energy. Despite public support, the specific location of renewable energy installations is often debated. The study presents a new approach to resolving land use competition in the context of energy system transformation. Ground-mounted photovoltaics (GM PV) in a German municipality serves as a case study. Its methodology goes beyond standard socio-scientific methods. The innovation is the model-based spatial assessment of GM PV scenarios with different constraints and suitability criteria based on stakeholder values. The scenarios are a tool for dialogue between renewable energy producers, farmers and environmentalists. To the surprise of stakeholders, even in scenarios with strict constraints, GM PV has considerable potential within the municipal administrative boundaries. There was a consensus that GM PV should be used to achieve the energy transition, preferably after the potential of roofs and sealed surfaces has been exploited, except for a few farmers. The innovative participatory modelling approach, the results and the recommendations allow for a systematic, transparent and fair assessment of the GM PV projects at the community level. It enables responsible land-use planning and improves public acceptance by incorporating stakeholder values into the siting of GM PV projects. The new approach helps to defuse emotionally charged debates and promotes positive public attitudes towards genetically modified crops. It has already attracted considerable interest in other municipalities.
Multifaceted activation of STING axis upon Nipah and Measles virus-induced syncytia formation
Authors: Amurri Lucia , Dumont Claire , Pelissier Rodolphe , Reynard Olivier , Mathieu Cyrille , Spanier Julia , Pályi Bernadett , Deri Daniel , Karkowski Ludovic , Skerra Jennifer , Kis Zoltán , Kalinke Ulrich , Horvat Branka , Iampietro Mathieu 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Activation of the DNA-sensing STING axis by RNA viruses plays a role in antiviral response through mechanisms that remain poorly understood. Here, we show that the STING pathway regulates Nipah virus (NiV) replication in vivo in mice. Moreover, we demonstrate that following both NiV and measles virus (MeV) infection, IFNγ-inducible protein 16 (IFI16), an alternative DNA sensor in addition to cGAS, induces the activation of STING, leading to the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and the production of IFNβ and interleukin 6. Finally, we found that paramyxovirus-induced syncytia formation is responsible for loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and leakage of mitochondrial DNA in the cytoplasm, the latter of which is further detected by both cGAS and IFI16. These results contribute to improve our understanding about NiV and MeV immunopathogenesis and provide potential paths for alternative therapeutic strategies.
A relationship between progesterone, maternal body weight, and offspring sex following the frozen/thawed single embryo transfer.
Authors: Ciepiela Przemyslaw , Czech Robert , Wójcik Dariusz , Skweres Tomasz , Śliwiński Wojciech , Zamkowska Dorota 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background/Objectives: to investigate a possible relationship between women’s age, serum progesterone concentration (PRG), and body weight expressed by body mass index (BMI) on the day of embryo frozen/thawed transfer (FET), and the sex of the newborn baby.
Subjects/Methods: A retrospective cohort study concerning children born after FET cycles conducted in one fertility clinic between January 2018 and September 2022. Out of 2,502 FET cycles, a group of 928 patients who underwent the transfer of the first best embryo from all frozen embryos, was extracted. All patients aged 23–46 qualified for FET during the study period were considered eligible. Cases where two embryos were transferred, and cycles where no data on progesterone concentration or embryos frozen at the cleavage stage were excluded from the study.
Results: Odds ratio (OR) of maternal age (OR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.94–1.00; p = 0.064), PRG (OR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.77–1.30; p = 0.988), and BMI (OR: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.98–1.05; p = 0.478) were not found to be associated with childbirth. Moreover, the maternal age did not have a statistically significant effect on the likelihood of giving birth to a female child (OR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.95–1.02; p = 0.495) or a male child (OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94–1.01; p = 0.128). However, the study found that increased levels of PRG over 20 ng/ml (OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.01–1.89; p = 0.044) and increased maternal BMI (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.10; p = 0.007) significantly raised the chance of giving birth to a girl. Conversely, PRG levels less than 20 ng/ml are associated with lower odds of male birth (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.53–0.99; p = 0.044), and higher maternal BMI is associated with an almost statistically-significant lower chance of male birth (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.92–1.00; p = 0.067).
Conclusion: Higher BMI and PRG levels positively predicted female childbirth; conversely, elevated levels negatively predicted male delivery.
Study on protolytic equilibria and the effects of pH, cyclodextrins and polysorbate 80 on solubility of raloxifene hydrochloride
Authors: Popović-Nikolić Marija R. , Čakar Mira , Todorović Nina , Nikolić Katarina , Popović Gordana 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The acid-base equilibria of raloxifene and the mutual influence of pH and solubility enhancers on the solubility of raloxifene hydrochloride were studied. The apparent ionization constants (pKa*) of raloxifene were determined potentiometrically in methanol–water mixtures (45%-55% w/w), and the pKa values (pKa1=7.21±0.02, pKa2=7.86±0.02, pKa3=9.97±0.04) defining ionization in aqueous media were obtained by extrapolating the pKa* values to 0% of methanol. The obtained pKa values were assigned to the corresponding ionization centers. Based on the ionization constants obtained in this study, the distribution of the equilibrium forms of raloxifene was calculated. The solubility of raloxifene hydrochloride in 0.01 M HCl, acetate buffer pH 4.5 and phosphate buffer pH 6.8 was studied with and without the presence of β-CD, HP-β-CD and polysorbate 80. The most effective solubility enhancer of raloxifene hydrochloride in 0.01 M HCl was polysorbate 80 at a concentration of 0.5%, while the influence of this enhancer in phosphate buffer pH 6.8 was negligible. The highest solubility of raloxifene hydrochloride in acetate and phosphate buffer was achieved in the presence of 10-3 M HP-β-CD which was 1.3-fold higher in both 0.01 M HCl and acetate buffer and 2.3-fold higher in phosphate buffer than in the presence of 10-3 M β-CD.
Human endogenous retroviruses are upregulated in Frontotemporal Dementia-MAPT mutation carriers
Authors: Fort-Aznar Laura , Borrego-Écija Sergi , Molina-Porcel Laura , Comas Aina , Puey Roger , Gómez Alba , Balasa Mircea , Lladó Albert , Antonell Anna , Sánchez-Valle Raquel 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Previous studies have identified an upregulation of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in several disorders, but little is known about their role in neurodegenerative dementias. In this study, we investigate a possible role of HERVs in the pathogenesis of sporadic and genetic frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We measured HERVs transcripts using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) in post-mortem prefrontal cortex tissue samples from individuals with sporadic FTD (sFTD), genetic FTD (gFTD), sporadic AD (sAD), genetic AD (gAD) and healthy controls and then analysed RNA from whole blood from individuals with gFTD and controls. We also evaluated HERVK-env protein levels by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in post-mortem brain FTD-MAPT mutation carriers and controls. We further analysed DNA methylation microarrays data from sFTD and gFTD patients looking for alterations in HERV-interacting genes. We show that in FTD-MAPT post-mortem brain tissue, HERVK (pol, gag, env and env3), HERVR-env and HERVW-env transcripts were upregulated with a fold-change (FC) > 2. In the other groups, HERVK-pol and HERVR-env transcripts were significantly upregulated in sFTD with tau deposits, sAD, and gAD patients, compared to controls, but the fold-change (FC) was lower than 2. HERVK-env protein was significantly elevated in FTD-MAPT brain compared to controls. We found several differentially methylated CpGs in interacting-HERVs genes (NUPR1, PGBD5, CBX1, CBX3, and ARC) in FTD-MAPT carriers compared to healthy subjects. In contrast, RNA from whole blood displayed decreased expression of HERVK-pol, HERVK-gag, HERVK-env3 and HERVW-env in FTD-MAPT compared to controls. These results strongly suggest that brain HERVs upregulation is associated with FTD-MAPT pathology. We hypothesize that HERV activity could serve as a potential target for antiviral drug administration in human FTD-MAPT carriers.
Impact of Internet Usage and Video Gaming on the Academic Performance of Postgraduate Students in a Prestigious Taiwanese University
Authors: Chen Gu Yun 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The influence of technology usage on the growth and academic achievements of children, teenagers, and young adults is still a topic of ongoing discussion and debate. This study investigates the intricate relationship between internet usage, video gaming, and the academic performance of postgraduate students at a prestigious Taiwanese university. With a diverse sample of master's and Ph.D. students, research objectives guided a comprehensive analysis blueprint. According to the results, descriptive statistics provided nuanced insights into academic and lifestyle factors, revealing diverse engagement patterns in internet use and gaming. Correlation analyses explored relationships between Grade Point Average (GPA) and lifestyle factors, with modest associations noted, though statistical significance was not achieved. The regression model indicated that study hours, gaming hours, internet usage, and sleeping hours did not significantly predict GPA. The Chi-square test revealed a meaningful association between video game addiction and academic performance, emphasizing the need for further exploration. Friedman tests delved into negative impacts, coping mechanisms, and alternative leisure activities, offering valuable insights into students' experiences. Notably, female Ph.D. students exhibited a slightly higher GPA, and age-related variations in gaming habits were observed. These findings contribute to the discourse on digital well-being, shedding light on the multifaceted recreational landscape and academic challenges faced by postgraduate students. This study underscores the importance of addressing these concerns to foster balanced lifestyles and promote holistic well-being in the evolving digital landscape of postgraduate education.