bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the Complex Interplay: Exploring the Relationships between Seismic and Volcanic Activities in the Colca River Area Using the Coulomb Stress Transfer
Authors: Woszczycka Marta , Gaidzik Krzysztof , Anccasi Figueroa Rosa Maria , Mendecki Maciej , Benavente Carlos 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The Colca River area is affected by shallow small-to-moderate earthquakes due to the activity of normal and strike-slip crustal faults on the overriding South American plate. In addition, volcanic activity from the Sabancaya volcano has been recorded. However, the complex relationship between seismic and volcanic activities and the factors that trigger them are poorly understood. To better understand the factors that influence seismic and volcanic activity and their potential connection, it is crucial to characterize the interactions between subsequent earthquakes and assess the impact of magmatic inflation on seismic events. In this study, we analyzed the static Coulomb stress transfer caused by the selected largest earthquakes from 1991 to 2022. We focused on both the assumed source faults and the receiver faults. Furthermore, we examined the Coulomb stress change due to magmatic inflation in 2013–2022 on nodal planes of the selected earthquakes. The results confirm the tectonic source for most earthquakes in the Colca region. Commonly, the magmatic source enhanced the stress change induced by the tectonic source. Although the Coulomb stress change caused by the significant earthquakes had a greater impact than the one resulting from the magmatic inflation, the Coulomb stress transfer seems not to be a dominant factor determining the occurrence and location of earthquakes in this area. The results indicate that most source faults of the analyzed earthquakes were not brought closer to failure due to a positive Coulomb stress transfer caused by seismic activity or magmatic inflation.
Development of a GIS-Based Predicted-VS30 Map of Türkiye Using Geological and Topographical Parameters: Case Study for the Region Affected by the 6 February 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes
Authors: Sahin Gokhan , Okalp Kivanc , Kockar Mustafa K. , Yilmaz Mustafa T. , Jalehforouzan Amir , Temiz Faik A. , Askan Aysegul , Akgun Haluk , Erberik Murat A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The time-averaged shear-wave velocity in the upper 30 m of a site (VS30) is virtually essential in characterizing local soil conditions for multiple purposes, including estimation of site effects, anticipated ground-motion levels, seismic hazards, and the shape of design spectra. Considering the significance of this proxy and that a number of the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency of Türkiye (AFAD) strong ground-motion stations across Türkiye lack assigned VS30 values, a comprehensive study was performed herein to develop empirical equations for estimating VS30 values in Türkiye based on relationships between 432 VS30 measurements at the AFAD stations, geologic units, and topographic data. Initially, units in the geological digital maps were reclassified into four geological periods. Statistical relationships between geological period classes and VS30 samples were interpreted to determine the VS30 boundaries for each period class. Second, VS30 estimations with topographic parameters by utilizing a 2D trend surface analysis method were performed. The resultant two-parameter polynomial coefficients were associated with VS30 according to the least squares principle, leading to the development of topographic functions for VS30 estimation under each geological period class (R2=0.601). Thereby, digital VS30 estimation maps were produced in grid (90 m) format that may be queried in a Geographic Information Systems environment. Moreover, the quantile regression method was also utilized to determine the coefficients of the envelope curve corresponding to a given exceedance probability (p) for the worst case scenario. Finally, to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed equations, the verifications performed with the VS30 data at the selected AFAD stations in the region affected by the 6 February 2003 earthquakes have also presented successful outcomes. Considering the availability of VS30 maps derived from digital elevation data in the literature, this study offers novel equations that take into account geological units and provide crucial background data for the regional seismic hazard-based risk assessments in Türkiye, especially for site effect studies using VS30 as a regional site classification parameter.
Tackling the US Opioid Crisis: Data-Driven Detection of Suspicious Retail Buyers
Authors: Seetharaman Seethu , Shi Annie , Sardella Anthony , Wall Michael , Abeyakaran Chenthuran 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The opioid epidemic affects thousands of communities across the US. Recently, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) launched an aggressive effort to monitor drug diversion. Our objective in this research is to assist the DEA’s effort to stop opioid shipments from reaching those at risk. We propose an anomaly detection algorithm to identify suspicious retail buyers of opioids. We implement our algorithm on the ARCOS database -- which tracks all opioid drug shipments across the US from 2006 to 2012. Our algorithm effectively identifies suspicious retail pharmacies and practitioners involved in drug diversion. It achieves 100 % precision and 100 % sensitivity, resulting in 100 % F-1 score for retail pharmacies. For practitioners, while precision remains at 100 %, sensitivity is 30 %, leading to 46 % F-1 score. By applying our algorithm, the DEA gains a powerful tool for promptly detecting suspicious retail buyers. This enables prevention of large opioid shipments by identifying potentially negligent or criminal drug retailers early. By doing so, we can safeguard vulnerable communities and save lives by ensuring that dangerous drugs do not easily reach them.
Combined transarterial therapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Xu Yuyan , Cai Lei , Feng Jianan , Wen Yaohong , Tan Hongkun , Feng Zhoubin , Wang Chunming , He Guolin , Fu Shunjun , Tao Haisu , Yang Jian , Pan Mingxin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) have poor long-term prognosis, necessitating alternative treatment modalities. We assessed the efficacy and safety of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with either transarterial chemoembolisation, hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy, or combined transcatheter arterial embolisation and hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy in patients with uHCC. The efficacy, represented by survival and tumour response, and tolerability, represented by adverse event frequency and severity, of the treatments were retrospectively evaluated for 119 patients with uHCC. Eighty-three patients received triple therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and either transarterial chemoembolisation or hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy, and 36 received quadruple therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, combined transcatheter arterial embolisation, and hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy. Patients who received quadruple therapy showed higher progression-free survival and overall survival than those who received triple therapy. The conversion rate to resectable hepatocellular carcinoma and the objective response rate of the quadruple therapy group was higher; however, the disease control rate showed no significant differences. The incidence and severity of adverse events were comparable between the quadruple and triple therapy groups. Quadruple therapy may improve survival prognosis compared with triple therapy without compromising safety in patients with uHCC.
Changing the food environment in secondary school canteens to promote healthy dietary choices: a qualitative study with school catering staff
Authors: Murphy Marie , Coffey Alice , Pallan Miranda , Oyebode Oyinlola 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background Typical adolescent diets do not meet current dietary recommendations. There is a need to address these dietary patterns to reduce the risk of obesity and other diet-related diseases. Schools provide an opportune setting to do so, as students consume a substantial proportion of their daily dietary intake whilst at school. There is a developing evidence base on the use of choice architecture (food choice cues) to promote healthy eating in school contexts. It is necessary to understand the acceptability and feasibility of implementing such interventions. We aimed to explore these implementation factors from the perspectives of secondary school caterers.Methods We conducted a qualitative study using video interviews, recruiting catering staff from secondary schools across the West Midlands, UK and national/regional catering representatives. A semi-structured topic guide and visual aid were used to guide interviews. We collected data on job role and employer. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Framework analysis was conducted in NVivo v12.Results 12 participants took part. Seven themes were identified and grouped into three categories: Acceptability (Suitability; Salient cues; Student engagement), Barriers (Catering decision drivers; Limits of influence), and Enablers (Perceived role; Opportunities). Caterers considered healthy food cues to be suited to adolescents as they require minimal reflective motivation. Salient cues included enhancing the visual appeal, positioning, and portability of healthy items, improving the dining environment and focusing pricing strategies on increased quantity. Student engagement was considered important. Some catering decision drivers conflicted with healthy eating strategies, and many felt that their role in healthy eating was limited due to the overwhelming influence external food environments, adolescent resistance, and for some, a perception that school food is already healthy enough. However, caterers appeared motivated to implement healthy food cues; and identified key opportunities for implementation.Conclusions Interventions using healthy food cues appeared acceptable to secondary school caterers, who are key potential implementers of these strategies. By exploring acceptability and feasibility of specific strategies, this research will help inform future approaches to school food interventions.
Recycling of incinerated sewage sludge ash and waste glass powder in alkali-activated slag/glass powders for sewer rehabilitation
Authors: Sun Keke , Ali Hafiz Asad , Cai Yamei , Xuan Dongxing , Poon Chi Sun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

A new era has dawned in the manufacturing of cement-free binders with appropriate mechanical strengths and durability to combat CO2 emissions. However, the assessment of their performance in extreme conditions is ongoing. Here, we attempted to use incinerated sewage sludge ash (ISSA), a waste product of sewage sludge incineration that contains limited amounts of heavy metals, along with waste glass powder (GP) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), as precursors to produce cement-free binders through alkali-activation. The alkali-activated materials (AAMs) were then subjected to an intensified sewage corrosion test for 6 months. The aim was to utilize the heavy metals in the ISSA as biocides to resist the biogenic acid attack on the AAMs. The experimental results indicated that superior performance was achieved by using a ternary binder prepared with ISSA, GP, and GGBS under biogenic acid simulation. Such enhanced durability can be attributed to the low Ca content in the resulting alkali-activated gels, which also reduced the grain size of gypsum formed and prevented expansion deterioration. Furthermore, the slow release of heavy metals from the AAMs prepared with the ISSA, evidenced by the leaching test results, was able to inhibit microbial growth.
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Vibrio cholerae isolates from cholera outbreak sites in Ethiopia
Authors: Bitew Abebaw , Gelaw Aschalew , Wondimeneh Yitayih , Ayenew Zelek , Getie Michael , Tafere Wudu , G/Hiwot Tsehay , Yimer Marechign , Beyene Getachew Tesfaye , Mihret Adane , Yeshitela Biruk , Teferi Mekonnen , Gelaw Baye 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background: Cholera is an acute infectious disease caused by ingestion of Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae) with contaminated food or water. Cholera remains a global threat to public health and an indicator of inequity and lack of social development. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of V. cholerae from cholera outbreak sites in Ethiopia.
Methods: Across-sectional study was conducted atOromia National Regional State, Amhara National Regional State and Addis Ababa City Administration. A total of 415 fecal samples were collected from the three regions. Two milliliter fecal samples were collected from each study participants. Culture, biochemical and serological tests were performed to identify and characterize V. cholerae. In addition, antibiotic susceptibility test was done. Data were registered in epi-enfo version 7 and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of Vibrio cholerae. Logistic regression model was fitted and p-value <0.05 was considered as statically significant.
Results: The prevalence of V. cholerae in the fecal samples was 30.1%. Majority of the isolates were from Oromia National Regional State 43.2 % (n=54) followed by Amhara National Regional State 31.2% (n=39) and Addis Ababa City Administration 25.6% (n=32). Most of the V. choleraeisolates were O1 serogroups 90.4% (n=113) and Ogawa serotypes 86.4% (n=108). Majority of the isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacillin 100% (n=125), tetracycline 72% (n=90) and gentamycin 68% (n=85). More than half of the isolates were resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 62.4% (n=78) and ampicillin 56.8% (n=71). In this study, participants unable to read and write were about four times more at risk for V. cholerae infection (AOR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.07 - 13.33). In addition, drank river water were about three times more at risk for V. cholerae infection (AOR: 2.8, 95%CI: 1.08- 7.08).
Conclusion: The prevalence of V. cholerae from fecal samples was high. The predominant serogroups and serotypes were O1 and Ogawa, respectively. Majority of the isolates were susceptible to most of the antibiotics tested. Drinking water from river were the identified associated risk factor for V. cholerae infection. Protecting the community from drinking of river water and provision of safe and treated water could reduce cholera outbreaks in the study areas.
Trace metals concentration and risk assessment in the southeastern Mediterranean sediments
Authors: Hassaan Mohamed A. , Dardeer Amr G. , Nemr Ahmed El 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Trace metals (Li, B, Na, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Se, Sr, Ag, Cd, In, Ba, Hg, Pb, Bi) in surface sediments of the Nile Delta coastal area between Western Harbor and Bardaweel Lagoon were evaluated. The ecological risk assessment was evaluated by Contamination degree (Cd), Geoaccumulation Factor (Igeo), Enrichment Factor (EF), Contamination Factor (CF), Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Pollution Load Index (PLI). The EF values are in the sequence: Cr > Pb > Ni > Zn > Cu > Mn. The studied locations were unpolluted with Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn (Igeo ≤0) and the Cd (> 1.5). Significant correlations were reported between the concentrations of Mn, Fe, Cr, Co and Ni suggesting similar sources. The HQ indicate low values for children and 3–4 > adult values. Using principal component analysis (PCA), the sources of heavy metals were categorized.
Longer and more frequent marine heatwaves in the Western Baltic Sea
Authors: Pinto Guilherme , Möllmann Christian , Hinrichsen Hans-Harald , Lehmann Andreas , Quaas Martin , Voss Rudi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Marine heatwaves (MHW) are globally occurring events observed with potentially long-lasting ecological effects and socio-economic repercussions. The Western Baltic Sea (WBS) is a transitional region between the North Sea and the Baltic Proper characterized by a unique physical oceanography. Warming of the area in response to climate change is significant, but the temporal and spatial development of extreme temperature events is poorly understood and documented. Here, we analyzed retrospective runs performed by a 3D-hydrodynamic model over seven decades (1950-2022) to better understand MHWs in the WBS. Our analysis revealed rampant increases in extreme temperature events since the 1990s. MHWs occurred regularly in spring and summer, but increasingly as well in autumn and winter. We especially identified long-lasting extreme events at the surface (> 100 days) and at the bottom (> 400 days) that resembled the exceptional “Blob” phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean. We furthermore identified parts of the WBS that in addition to extreme temperatures suffered hypoxic conditions, a combination of pressures with potentially devastating ecological impacts. Our study advances the understanding of the climatic impact on a marine system that already suffers from eutrophication and overfishing, and provides baseline knowledge to understand physical forcing impacts on ecosystem functioning.
Low expression of SGCA promotes LUSC malignant progression
Authors: Chen Guojie , Mao Guangyao , Zong Xinyu , Zhang Qingfang , Ting Guo , Lin Mei 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objectives As a common pathological type of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) with high mortality lacks a desired diagnostic indicator and therapeutic target. This study is aimed to reveal low expression of Alpha-Sarcoglycan (SGCA) promotes LUSC progression to provide a biomarker for LUSC diagnosis, prognosis evaluation and targeted therapy. Methods The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and 70 LUSC patients in clinic were collected to assessed the correlation between SGCA expression and patients clinical data;in vitro, we examined the proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion of human LUSC H520 cells with overexpressed SGCA by transfecting pc-SGCA plasmids, comparing with that of the Ctrl group;in vivo, LUSC subcutaneous tumorigenic mouse mode was constructed to further explore the role of SGCA in LUSC. Results The analysis results of TCGA data indicate SGCA was significant in the diagnosis of LUSC and negatively correlated with T stage; The analysis results of the clinical data analysis suggest SGCA was negatively correlated with T stage, clinical stage, CYFRA21-1 and creatinine ; in vitro experiments validated low expression of SGCA enhanced the proliferation, invasion and migration ability, inhibited the cells apoptosis; in vivo experiments showed LUSC subcutaneous tumorigenic mouse model overexpression of SGCA inhibited the mice tumor growth. Conclusion SGCA has diagnostic significance in LUSC. Low expression of SGCA promotes proliferation, migration, invasion, and is closely associated with LUSC progression, and SCGA is thus proposed as a potential prognostic factor and therapeutical target for LUSC.
Exploring ageism and age norms among older adults in urban India
Authors: Sivaramakrishnan Divya , Subaiya Lekha , Vani B. P. , Grunberg Diana , Syamala T. S. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The UN Decade of Healthy Ageing plan of action has identified combating ageism and challenging negative and restrictive attitudes as a priority area. Ageism towards older people refers to negative constructions of old age, comprising of stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination, and age norms are expectations and social rules around age-appropriate behaviour. Ageism and age norms can adversely impact the physical and mental wellbeing of older people, and this study aims to explore ageism and age norms and their effects on health and wellbeing among older adults in India. The study adopted an exploratory qualitative research design. Online focus groups and interviews were conducted with 21 participants from urban Indian cities, and data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Themes relating to ageism and current norms experienced by older people in urban India were identified. Experiences of ageism stemmed from institutions, lack of consideration of social needs, intergenerational dynamics, and changing roles and identities in a rapidly evolving world. Age norms included societal expectations that older adults take up only certain activities, dress in a sombre way, and are constrained in how they behave. The study findings emphasise that older people are a diverse group with varied interests and hobbies who refute stereotypes, strongly endorsing the view that they are a complex, heterogenous group. Recommendations include investment into creating age-friendly cities, development and implementation of educational and intergenerational programmes, as well as initiatives to cater to the social needs of older people and policies targeting discrimination within financial and employment sectors.
Dust tracking and modeling in Southeast of Iran (Case study: Dust storm from December 16 to 20, 2016)
Authors: Sardoo Farshad Soleimani , krakauer Nir 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Blowing dust is one of the most common natural phenomena in arid and semi-arid regions, which causes a lot of damage every time it occurs. This phenomenon is introduced as a natural hazard in terms of negative effects in natural and human-managed ecosystems, and it is one of the most important problems of ocieties in arid and semi-arid regions. In this research, in order to investigate and analyze this phenomenon, it was simulated by the WRF-Chem model, and MODIS satellite data and the HYSPLIT model were also used to investigate the mechanism of particle transport and its routing in the Jazmurian basin in the southeast of Iran. The results showed that the aerosol optical depth index is high in eastern Iran on December 16 to 20, and the particles originating from this part were mainly affected by the northern currents and moved to the south. Also, the results of the numerical simulation of the dust storm using the WRF-Chem model showed that the surface concentration values ​​of the output particles of the WRF_Chem model at UTC18 on December 17, 2016 in the south of Sistan and Baluchistan province and Hormozgan province were higher than 2500 micrograms per cubic meter. and in the central areas of Jazmurian region, the concentration of dust reaches more than 2000 micrograms per cubic meter.
Autophagy regulator ATG5 preserves cerebellar function by safeguarding its glycolytic activity
Authors: Kononenko Natalia , Tutas Janine , Tolve Marianna , Özer-Yildiz Ebru , Ickert Lotte , Klein Ines , Hosseini Mahan , Liebsch Filip , Dethloff Frederik , Giavalisco Patrick , Endepols Heike , Georgomanolis Theodoros , Neumaier Bernd , Drzezga Alexander , Daun Silvia , Schwarz Guenter , Thorens Bernard , Gatto Graziana , Frezza Christian 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Dysfunctions in autophagy, a cellular mechanism for breaking down components within lysosomes, often lead to neurodegeneration. The specific mechanisms underlying neuronal vulnerability to autophagy dysfunction remain elusive. Here, we show that autophagy contributes to the survival of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) by safeguarding their glycolytic activity. This function of autophagy is independent of its conventional housekeeping role and involves ATG5-mediated regulation of glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) levels during cerebellar maturation. Autophagy-deficient PCs exhibit GLUT2 accumulation on the plasma membrane, along with increased glucose uptake and accelerated glycolysis. We identify lysophosphatidic acid and serine as glycolytic intermediates that trigger PC death and demonstrate that deletion of GLUT2 in ATG5-deficient mice mitigates PC neurodegeneration and restores their ataxic gait. Taken together, this work reveals a novel mechanism for regulating GLUT2 levels in neurons and provides new insights into the neuroprotective role of autophagy by controlling glucose homeostasis in the brain.