bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring Tanzanian Clay Minerals as Promising Candidates for Geopolymer Cement: A Sustainable Approach to Climate-Friendly Cement
Authors: Kitalika Aldo J. , Mabeyo Petro , Mushi Silvia , Abeid Said , Kimambo Elianaso , Madirisha Makungu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The quest for sustainable construction materials has sparked interest in geopolymers as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional Portland cement. In response to this endeavour, this study explored Tanzanian clay minerals collected from different regions to assess their potential as candidate materials for geopolymer cement. The XRF results revealed varying elemental compositions that are crucial for geopolymer production. Essential components like SiO2 and Al2O3 were found, with some regions showing balanced ratios suitable for geopolymer cement. Minor Fe2O3 content was also detected, which could enhance material strength by forming iron silicate binders. Limited CaO content was noted, which can be beneficial in influencing geopolymer properties. However, high CaO levels in a few regions of the Eastern zone may be less suitable for geopolymer cement production. Most samples showed minimal Loss of Ignition (LOI), indicating their potential to enhance the workability of geopolymers. The study identified specific regions with clays suitable for various high-technology geopolymer resins, low-CO2 geopolymer cement, and specialized applications, though beneficiation might sometimes be required. The XRD results of clay samples revealed varying mineral compositions, with quartz being the dominant mineral in several samples, indicating high silica content. These mineralogical findings align with the XRF results, reinforcing the presence of essential elements for geopolymer cement development. The SEM-EDS results further verified the elemental composition of select samples. Additionally, TGA results provided insights into the thermal stability of the clay samples, confirming their suitability for geopolymer cement production. These results demonstrated that Tanzanian clay minerals are well-suited for producing eco-friendly cement. By leveraging these readily available local clay resources and unlocking their potential for sustainable construction materials, this research significantly advances the worldwide endeavour to mitigate the environmental footprint of the construction sector while advocating for eco-conscious alternatives to conventional Portland cement.
Carboxyfullerene C60 preserves sperm by enhancing antioxidant capacity and inhibiting apoptosis and harmful bacteria
Authors: Li Yuqing , Zhang Haize , Xiao Haoqi , Qin Xue , Hu Bingyan , Yang Menghao , Cao Chaoyue , Wang Xiaolin , Chai Jiawen , Gao Lei , Chu Guiyan , Zheng Yi , Cai Rui , Pang Weijun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The current approaches for the preservation of human sperm have several limitations, and there are a lack of effective non-freezing preservation methods. Recently, carboxyfullerene C60 (CF-C60) has gained attention as an important nanocarbon derivative with strong antioxidant and antibacterial activity. This study uses a porcine model to systematically investigate whether CF-C60 can be used for the preservation of sperm.
Results
The results indicate that CF-C60 supplementation can preserve sperm quality during storage at 17°C. This effect is attributable to improvement in the antioxidant capacity of sperm through a decrease in the ROS level. Additionally, CF-C60 can maintain mitochondrial function, inhibit sperm apoptosis through the ROS/Cytochrome C/Caspase 3 signaling pathway, and mediate suppression of bacterial growth through the effects of ROS. Finally, the results of artificial insemination experiments indicate that insemination with CF-C60-treated sperm can increase the total number of offspring born and reduce the number of deformed piglets.
Conclusions
Thus, CF-C60 can preserve sperm quality by inhibition of apoptosis and bacterial growth via a reduction in ROS levels and is safe for use as a component of semen diluent for storage. These findings pave the way for the prospective clinical application of carbon nano-materials as antioxidants for non-freezing sperm preservation methods.
Morphological analyses support taxonomic updates in Brazilian species of Stylosanthes Sw. (Papilionoideae, Leguminosae)
Authors: Gissi Danilo Soares , Torke Benjamin M , Simon Marcelo Fragomeni , Tomazello-Filho Mario , Fortuna-Perez Ana Paula 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Stylosanthes Sw. is a pantropical genus primarily distributed throughout the Americas, with the Brazilian Cerrado serving as its principal center of diversity. Many of its species hold significant economic potential and are widely utilized as fodder for cattle. Systematic examinations involving both morphology and nomenclature have highlighted the imperative need for taxonomic updates in select species. Given the observed morphological and ecological differences, a taxonomic reevaluation of S. guianensis (Aubl.) Sw. was deemed necessary, leading to the elevation of its varieties to the species level. The taxonomic changes include the new combinations S. microcephala (M.B. Ferreira & Sousa Costa) Gissi, S. pauciflora (M.B. Ferreira & Sousa Costa) Gissi, and S. pubescens (Pilger) Gissi. Furthermore, a neotype for S. nunoi Brandão is designated due to the loss of the holotype. Stylosanthes pohliana Taub. is reinstated as an accepted species, and a novel species within the genus is described. X-ray imaging of leaflets emerges as a valuable tool for taxonomic discrimination. This comprehensive study not only presents nomenclatural modifications but also provides illustrations, comments on diagnostic characteristics, distribution maps, and preliminary IUCN conservation assessments. Additionally, a novel discovery is introduced with the recognition of an elaiosome in the fruits of S. guianensis, constituting a noteworthy addition to the tribe Dalbergieae.
Searching Prognostic Hub Genes for the Management of Gliomagenesis through Transcriptome Profiling
Authors: Murali Poornimaa , Thirunavukkarasu Muthu Kumar , Ramesh Priyanka , Veerappapillai Shanthi , Karuppasamy Ramanathan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Despite the recent advancements in the treatment of gliomagenesis, the disease prognosis with the current treatment interventions is still awful with a median overall survival of only 15 months. Adding together, relapse in glioma patients further worsen the scenario. Thus, the current study aimed to shed light on identifying prospective candidate hub genes as potential biomarkers related to the pathogenesis of gliomas. The integrative pipeline such as quality control, normalization, principal component analysis (PCA) and tree clustering was employed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Further, in-silico immunohistochemistry technique was employed to validate the identified hub genes. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis were utilized to functionally elucidate the hub genes. Interestingly, the present study identified novel hub genes such as TP53, SRC, UBA52, UBB, and CDK1. Of note, ours is the first report on the UBA52 and UBB which unveils the use of these hub genes as potential biomarkers. These genes were mainly involved in crucial oncological pathways that annotated their resemblance with glioma. Finally, potential candidate drugs were predicted against three key gene targets, namely TP53, SRC and CDK1, using the DGIdb database to manage glioblastoma effectively. Indeed, we believe that the exploration of UBB and UBA52 would present exciting opportunities for scientific advancement in the field of glioma treatment strategy. Overall, the results from our study provide a new avenue for the precise understanding of prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers that could serve as specific therapeutic targets for averting gliomagenesis in the near future.
Machine learning models for the prediction on efficacy of ionic liquid-aided biomass pretreatment
Authors: Mahanty Biswanath , Gharami Munmun , Haldar Dibyajyoti 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The influence of ionic liquids (ILs) characteristics, lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) properties, and process conditions on LCB pretreatment is not well understood. In this study, a total of 129 experimental data on cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and solid recovery from IL-based LCB pretreatment were compiled from literature to develop machine learning models. Following data imputation, bilayer artificial neural network (ANN) and random forest (RF) regression were developed to model the dataset. The full-featured ANN following Bayesian hyperparameter (HP) optimization though offered excellent fit on training (R2:0.936–0.994), cross-validation (R2CV) performance remained marginally poor, i.e., between 0.547 and 0.761. The fitness of HP-optimized RF models varied between 0.824–0.939 for regression, and between 0.383–0.831 in cross-validation. Temperature and pretreatment time had been the most important predictors, except for hemicellulose recovery. Bayesian predictor selection combined with HPO improved the R2CV boundary for ANN (0.555–0.825), as well as for RF models (0.474–0.824). As the predictive performance of the models varied depending on the target response, the use of a larger homogeneous dataset may be warranted.
Utilisation of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) in Optimizing High-Strength Concrete Containing Microfine MetakaolinBy
Authors: Sidek Muhd Norhasri Muhd , Johari Megat Azmi Megat , Yusof Mohd Zaid , Arshad Mohd Fadzil 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the effect of Metakaolin (MK) inclusion on the properties of concrete. Concrete has been used in this research and Metakaolin was used to replace part of the cement at 0, 5, 10, and 15% replacement levels. The replacement was done on a mass-for-mass basis. All concrete samples have been subjected to water curing until the age of testing using compressive strength, porosity, and water absorption. All evaluated data were extended for prediction analysis using response surface methodology. In general, the inclusion of Metakaolin increases strength and reduces the rate of porosity and water absorption on concrete. From the experiment, the inclusion of Metakaolin at 10% replacement gives the optimum result for all testing compared to other samples. Furthermore, a model equation by relating all data was generated and can be adapted for predicting future data. Hence, the inclusion of Metakaolin for normal curing in terms of compressive strength, porosity and water absorption for normal curing shows improvement when compared to the control specimen.
Why do we still feel drained even in meaningful work?: Unveiling the impact of job insecurity
Authors: Kang Hyesun , Li Yiran 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The issue of psychological burnout in most workplaces is a significant concern. Despite organizational psychology efforts to alleviate burnout by emphasizing high-quality job conditions such as meaning and calling, discussions often overlook the impact of job insecurity. Given recent approaches’ tendency to neglect fundamental lower-level needs, this study aimed to explore the negative effects of psychological burnout on workers, focusing on subjective job insecurity.
Methods
Counsellors, recognized for experiencing high psychological burnout, comprised our study with 420 finalized responses out of 450 collected. Data analysis encompassed the utilization of SPSS 29.0, Amos 29.0, and SmartPLS 4.0, with a specific focus on exploring mediating and moderating effects of variables.
Results
The findings unveiled that job insecurity weakened the previously observed negative indirect impact of work meaning on psychological burnout through living a calling. This observation suggests that as job insecurity intensifies, the alleviating effect of living a calling on burnout diminishes. This study reaffirms the link between work meaning and psychological burnout, emphasizing the mediating role of living a calling among South Korean counsellors.
Conclusions
The results underscore the necessity of organizational interventions to promote meaningful work, facilitate personal calling, and ensure job security, thereby preventing or mitigating burnout.
Prediction of Transmittance for a Free Space Quantum Channel and Improving Quantum Keyrate in Adverse Atmospheric Condition
Authors: Choudhury Debarpita Paul , Nandi Dalia 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Free Space Optical Quantum Communication (FSOQC) is a new wireless approach that allows users to communicate in a secure and faster manner. The working mode of quantum communication is based on quantum physics and is somewhat probabilistic in nature. In order to carry quantum signal in a scattered environment, it is needed to derive the probability distribution of transmittance for a specified region at a desired communication link distance. To understand the performance of FSOQC under adverse weather condition, the effects of various atmospheric parameters such as fog, rain, and turbulence need to be analyzed. In the present study, an attempt is made to predict transmittance for a tropical location, Kolkata, India in real-time conditions, and Keyrate is estimated based on the predicted transmittance. The diurnal, monthly and yearly variation of transmittance is analyzed which is required for effective implementation of a quantum communication system. Two alternative situations, with and without sunlight are considered for Keyrate computation. A combination of two techniques, Difference Frequency Generation and Spontaneous Parametric Down Conversion has been applied to increase Keyrate under adverse weather condition. The operating wavelength is 800 nm, and combined technique is developed around that wavelength.
Algebraic points of any degree on the affine curves y2 = (x − 2q)(x2 − 2q2)(x2 + 22q2)
Authors: FALL Moussa , DIALLO Mouhamadou Mor Diogou 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
We give a parametrization of the set of algebraic points of any given degree of the family curves of affine equation Cq : y2 = (x − 2q)(x2 − 2q2)(x2 + 22q2) with q ≡ 13[24] These curves are described by Anna Arnth-Jensen and Victor Flynn in [1], who showed that the Mordell-Weil group is finite and explained the generators of the torsion group of this family of curves.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2010). Primary 14H40; Secondary 14L40.
Do children with IgA nephropathy present differently from adult patients?
Authors: Su Baige , Jiang Yuanyuan , Zhang Hong , Li Zhihui , Zhou Jianhua , Rong Liping , Feng Shipin , Zhong Fazhan , Sun Shuzhen , Zhang Dongfeng , Xia Zhengkun , Feng Chunyue , Huang Wenyan , Li Xiaoyan , Chen Chaoying , Hao Zhihong , Wang Mo , Qin Li , Chen Minguang , Li Yuanyuan , Ding Juanjuan , Bao Ying , Liu Xiaorong , Deng Fang , Cheng Xueqin , Zhang Li , Zhang Xuan , Yang Huandan , Peng Xiaojie , Sun Qianliang , Deng Linxia , Jiang Xiaoyun , Xie Min , Gao Yan , Yu Lichun , Liu Ling , Gao Chunlin , Mao Jianhua , Zheng Weihua , Dang Xiqiang , Xia Hua , Wang Yujie , Zhong Xuhui , Ding Jie , Lv Jicheng 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Pediatric and adult nephrologists hold different opinions regarding the treatment of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). However, it is unknown whether pediatric IgAN presents differently from adult IgAN.
Methods
We analyzed two prospective cohorts established by pediatric and adult nephrologists, respectively. A comprehensive analysis was performed investigating the difference in clinical, pathological characteristics, treatment, and prognosis between children and adults with IgAN.
Results
A total of 1015 children and 1911 adults with IgAN were eligible for analysis. More frequent gross hematuria (88% vs. 20%, p < 0.0001), and higher proteinuria (1.8 vs. 1.3g/d, p < 0.0001) were seen in children compared to adults. In comparison, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was lower in adults (80.4 vs. 163ml/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.0001). Hypertension was more prevalent in adult patients. Pathologically, a higher proportion of M1 was revealed (62% vs. 39%, p < 0.0001) in children than in adults. S1 (62% vs. 28%, p < 0.0001), and T1-2 (34% vs. 8%, p < 0.0001) were more frequent in adults. Adjusted by proteinuria, eGFR, and hypertension, Children were more likely to be treated with glucocorticoids than adults (87% vs. 45%, p < 0.0001). After propensity score matching, in IgAN with proteinuria > 1g/d, children treated with steroids were 2.19 (95% CI: 1.36 to 3.54, p = 0.001) times more likely to reach complete remission of proteinuria compared with adults treated with steroids.
Conclusions
Children present significantly different from adults with IgAN in clinical and pathological manifestations and disease progression. Steroid response is significantly better in children.
Predictive Significance Of Preoperative Inflammatory Markers In Postoperative Lung Metastasis Of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sun Jiukang , Xiong Weili , Fang Zhang , Song Chuanjun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose:
This study aims to investigate the predictive significance of inflammatory markers for postoperative lung metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. The focus is on exploring the relationship between traditional inflammatory markers, such as NLR, PLR, and newly introduced indices like CALLY, and their association with CRC progression and lung metastasis.
Methods:
A retrospective review of medical records from 303 CRC patients at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (January 2014 to December 2023) was conducted. Various inflammatory markers, baseline characteristics, and survival data were analyzed. The CALLY index, integrating PNI and CRP levels, was introduced. Statistical analyses, including univariate and multivariate Cox regression and logistic regression, were performed to determine associations between inflammatory factors and CRC outcomes.
Results:
Among the patients, 55 developed lung metastasis during the study period. The results revealed that lower PNI, LMR, and CALLY were significantly associated with reduced postoperative progression-free survival (PFS). Moreover, CEA, PNI, and CALLY emerged as independent risk factors for postoperative lung metastasis.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of inflammatory markers in predicting postoperative outcomes for CRC patients. Lower PNI, LMR, and CALLY were identified as significant predictors of reduced PFS, while CEA, PNI, and CALLY were independently associated with an increased risk of postoperative lung metastasis. These findings highlight the potential clinical utility of these inflammatory markers in monitoring CRC recurrence and metastasis.
Advancing precision in endoscopic surgery: a novel approach with attention mechanisms and adaptive threshold for surgical instrument segmentation
Authors: Le Thai Hoang , Nguyen Viet Thanh Duy , Hinh Trinh Ich 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Accurate surgical instrument segmentation in endoscopic images is crucial for automated surgery systems, providing precise location and pose information essential for procedures. This paper introduces an advanced surgical instrument segmentation method based on ResUNet++ enriched with the Dual Attention Network. This strategic integration allows selective emphasis on instrument regions, significantly enhancing segmentation accuracy. Additionally, Otsu’s adaptive thresholding method is employed for optimal threshold values, improving the model’s adaptability to varying conditions. Empirical results on datasets, including Kvasir Instrument, Rigid Instruments, and Endoscopic, show exceptional performance with Dice coefficients of 0.962, 0.901, and 0.91 and IoU of 0.912, 0.830, and 0.813, respectively. This work represents a significant advancement in automated endoscopic surgery, offering heightened precision and adaptability for improved surgical outcomes.
The Appraisal of Adults With Congenital Heart Disease:lesson From Comparison of Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Giamberti Alessandro , Ferrero Paolo , Caldaroni Federica , Varrica Alessandro , Pasqualin Giulia , D’Aiello Fabio , Bergonzoni Emma , Ranucci Marco , Chessa Massimo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background.
The population of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) is constantly growing. There seems to be a consensus that these patients are difficult to manage especially if compared to patients with acquired heart disease. The aim of this study is to compare outcomes and results of cardiac surgery in ACHD patients with a reference population of adults with acquired cardiac disease.
Methods.
Retrospective study of 5053 consecutive patients older than 18 years hospitalized for cardiac surgery during a 5-years period in our Institution. Two groups of patients were identified. Group I: 419 patients operated for congenital heart disease; Group II: 4634 patients operated for acquired heart disease. In each Group were identified low, medium, and high-risk patients, according to validated scores.
Results.
Right ventricular outflow tract surgery was the most frequent procedure in Group I, while coronary artery by-pass grafting was the most common in Group II. Patients with ACHD were younger (37.8 vs. 67.7 years), with higher number of previous operations (32.1% vs. 6.9%), had longer post-ICU hospital stay (11 vs. 8 days) but had lower ICU stay (1 vs.2 days), shorter assisted mechanical ventilation (12 vs. 14 hours) and lower surgical mortality (1 vs. 3.7%) (all p ˂ 0.001). No differences were found in term of post-operative complications (12.4 vs. 15%).
Conclusions.
The surgical treatment of ACHD patients can be done with excellent results and if compared with acquired cardiac disease patients they have better results with shorter ICU stay and lower mortality.