bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationships Between River and Groundwater Flow in an Alluvial Plain by Time Series Analysis and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Leone Guido , Ginolfi Michele , Esposito Libera , Fiorillo Francesco 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Alluvial plains represent hydrological systems where the aquifer and the drainage network are strictly in hydraulic communication. In many instances, the stream system represents the primary factor controlling the water table variability and groundwater circulation. When meteoric recharge is scarce, the stream system allows for the aquifer exploitation by pumping wells and affects the propagation of the depression cone by limiting its expansion. In this context, the water table mainly responds to stream discharge variations over time rather than the meteorological input, and this response is smoothed and delayed as the alluvial aquifer acts as a low-pass filter. In this study, we applied statistical methods and numerical modeling to characterize the relationships between the groundwater and the surface-water systems in the Benevento Plain (southern Italy). Time series decomposition and correlation analysis were used to assess whether river flow variability can explain water table variability. Furthermore, the numerical model allows for understanding the specific contribution of the river, meteoric recharge, and pumping on groundwater circulation. Our analysis highlighted that the river controls the overall groundwater circulation and that pumping and meteoric recharge have limited effects. Therefore, abstracted groundwater by pumping has a direct connection with the river. The findings presented in this study are crucial in managing and protecting the Benevento Plain aquifer, which is exploited for both industrial and drinking purposes.
Ti3SiC2-based saturable absorber for passive mode-locking of a fiber laser
Authors: Zhang Zhiming , Sun Xiangzhe , Chen Bing , Zhang Huiyun , Zhang Yuping 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
We report a simple and compact all-fiber erbium-doped mode-locked laser based on a microfiber-based Ti3SiC2 saturable absorber. Self-starting mode locking at 1566 nm in this erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL) was achieved at a threshold pump power of 90 mW, delivering a pulse train with a repetition rate of 3.9 MHz, a pulse width of 13 ns, and a pulse spectral width of 7.4 nm. The findings of this study allow Ti3SiC2 to be added to the growing catalog of nanomaterials for future nonlinear photonics.
Efficacy of ozonated autohemotherapy for improvement of myocardial injury following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Wang Chenhao , Zhu Yi , Liu Wei , Ren Lingyun , Wu Zhouquan , Chen Jingli 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the myocardial protective effect of ozonated autohemotherapy (OA) during the progression of acute traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Methods: Forty patients with acute TBI were recruited and divided into The treatment group (Group OA, n = 20) and the Control group (Group C, n = 20). Patients in Group OA received OA before surgery and on the 1st and 2nd postoperative days, while patients in Group C underwent autologous blood transfusion. Venous blood was collected from all patients before (T0) and after 7 (T1) days of surgery for measurement of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). At T0 and T1, transthoracic cardiac ultrasound was performed to measure left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and venous blood was sampled to determine the contents of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA). NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores were calculated, and other clinical indexes were recorded.
Results: (1) The levels of cTnT at T1 were significantly higher as compared with that at T0 in both groups (P < 0.000). Compared with Group C, a remarkable decline in the content of NT-proBNP was found in Group OA at T1 (P = 0.004). (2) The LVEF (P = 0.01) and serum SOD (P = 0.011) at T1 were significantly increased in Group OA as compared with those in Group C. (3) The length of ICU stay for patients in Group OA was distinctly shorter than that for patients in Group C (P = 0.011).
Conclusion: Perioperative OA treatment can alleviate the secondary myocardial injury during the disease course of TBI, which might be associated with its myocardial protective effect against oxidative stress.
Backcrossing Modulates the Metabolic Profiles of Anthocyanin- Pigmented "Vitamaize" Lines Derived from Elite Maize Lines
Authors: Peniche-Pavía Héctor Arturo , González-Rodríguez Tzitziki , Tiessen Axel , García-Lara Silvero , Winkler Robert 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
We evaluated metabolic differences between the Vitamaize lines (VMLs) derived from backcrossing the pigmented aleurone trait into the CIMMYT Maize Lines (CMLs) and their original CMLs. For a comprehensive chemical characterization, we applied direct infusion mass spectrometry (DIMS) analyses, carotenoid profiling, total anthocyanins content (TAC) determination, and biochemical evaluation of the QPM (quality protein maize) endosperm trait. DIMS data indicate higher hexoses and trigonelline content for most VMLs; the carotenoid profile revealed a decrease in β-cryptoxanthin to less than half of the original parent content for two VMLs but an augmentation for one VML. The pigmented aleurone VMLs did not inherit the complex QPM endosperm trait of the QPM CMLs. Except for anthocyanin accumulation, no other metabolites were consistently modified across all the backcross-generated maize lines with a pigmented aleurone trait. Thus, we suggest the use of genetic or molecular markers for future breeding programs.
Highly sensitive Surface Plasmon Resonance for Cancer Cell Biosensor employing MXene and perovskite Heterostructure
Authors: Xu Wentao , Tao Liu , Hassan Ali , Xue Zhenhua , Jin Min , Yang Dongxia , Zhang Yongzhi , Gu Haojie , Han Lei 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Cancer has become the most serious disease in the world, and achieving rapid and accurate detection has become the focus of research. In this paper, the novel surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based biosensor cancer cells (Jurkat/PC12/HeLa) is presented. The biosensor is based on a hybrid structure of two-dimensional (2D) material with MXene (Ti3C2Tx) and perovskite (MAPbBr3). The Blood (Jurkat), Adrenal Glands (PC12), Cervical (HeLa) cancer cells through the multilayer Ag-ITO thin film caused by the change of reflectivity, so as to calculate the sensitivity and figure of merit (FOM) value. The simulation analysis shows that PC12 has the highest sensitivity in SPR biosensor. When the Ag, ITO and MAPbBr3 are 52 nm, 5 nm, and monolayer, the minimum sensitivity of SPR biosensor is 288.79 °/RIU and by PC12. Compared with the Ag film of traditional SPR biosensors, the PC12 sensitivity of the hybrid structure is increased by 1.89 times. In terms of disease diagnosis, the sensitivity and accuracy of SPR biosensors have been greatly improved, providing a basis for early diagnosis and treatment of diseases. In addition, SPR biosensor hardware provides theoretical support.
Toxicity of External Beam Accelerated Partial-Breast Irradiation (APBI) in Adjuvant Therapy of Early-stage Breast Cancer: Randomized Prospective Study
Authors: Burkon Petr , Selingerova Iveta , Slavik Marek , Holanek Milos , Vrzal Miroslav , Coufal Oldrich , Polachova Katerina , Muller Petr , Slampa Pavel , Kazda Tomas 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is an alternative breast-conserving therapy approach where radiation is delivered in less time compared to whole breast irradiation (WBI), resulting in improved patient convenience, less toxicity, and cost savings. This prospective randomized study compares the external beam APBI with commonly used accelerated WBI in terms of feasibility, safety, tolerance, and cosmetic effects.
Methods: Early breast cancer patients after partial mastectomy were equally randomized into two arms – external APBI and accelerated WBI. External beam technique using available technical innovations commonly used in targeted hypofractionated radiotherapy to minimize irradiated volumes was used. Cosmetics results and toxicity were evaluated using questionnaires, CTCAE criteria, and photo documentation.
Results: The analysis of 84 patients with a median age of 64 years showed significantly fewer acute adverse events in the APBI arm regarding skin reactions, local and general symptoms. A significant difference in favor of the APBI arm in grade ≥2 late skin toxicity was observed (p=0.026). Late toxicity in the breast area (deformation, edema, fibrosis, and pain), affecting the quality of life and cosmetic effect, occurred in 61% and 17% of patients in WBI and APBI arms, respectively. The cosmetic effect was more favorable in the APBI arm, especially 6 to 12 months after the radiotherapy.
Conclusion: External APBI demonstrated better feasibility and less toxicity than the standard regimen in the adjuvant setting for treating early breast cancer patients. The presented study confirmed the level of evidence for establishing the external APBI in daily clinical practice.
Trial registration: NCT06007118
Mitigating Candidiasis with Acarbose by targeting Candida albicans α-Glucosidase: In- silico, In-vitro and Transcriptomic Approaches
Authors: David Helma , Vasudevan Sahana , Solomon Adline Princy 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Biofilm-associated candidiasis poses a significant challenge in clinical settings due to the limited effectiveness of existing antifungal treatments. The challenges include increased pathogen virulence, multi-drug resistance, and inadequate penetration of antimicrobials into biofilm structures. One potential solution to this problem involves the development of novel drugs that can modulate fungal virulence and biofilm formation, which is essential for pathogenesis. Resistance in Candida albicans is initiated by morphological changes from yeast to hyphal form. This transition triggers a series of events such as cell wall elongation, increased adhesion, invasion of host tissues, pathogenicity, biofilm formation, and the initiation of an immune response. The cell wall is a critical interface for interactions with host cells, primarily through various cell wall proteins, particularly mannoproteins. Thus, cell wall proteins and enzymes are considered potential antifungal targets. In this regard, we explored α-glucosidase as our potential target which plays a crucial role in processing mannoproteins. Previous studies have shown that inhibition of α-glucosidase leads to defects in cell wall integrity, reduced adhesion, diminished secretion of hydrolytic enzymes, alterations in immune recognition, and reduced pathogenicity. Since α-glucosidase, primarily converts carbohydrates, our study focuses on FDA-approved carbohydrate mimic drugs (Glycomimetics) with well-documented applications in various biological contexts. Through virtual screening of 114 FDA-approved carbohydrate-based drugs, a pseudo-sugar Acarbose, emerged as a top hit. Acarbose is known for its pharmacological potential in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus by targeting α-glucosidase. Our preliminary investigations indicate that Acarbose effectively inhibits C. albicans biofilm formation, reduces virulence, impairs morphological switching, and hinders the adhesion and invasion of host cells, all at very low concentrations in the nanomolar range. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis reveals the mechanism of action of Acarbose, highlighting its role in targeting α-glucosidase.
Investigating Genetic Causality: Mendelian Randomization Study on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Asthma, and Osteoarthritis
Authors: Du Kai , Zhang Chen-Yu , Li Ao , Hu Jia-Ze , Guo Ren , Li Shu-Ming 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
To elucidate the bidirectional causal relationships and mechanisms linking the increasingly prevalent conditions of asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and osteoarthritis (OA).
Methods
This two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) study was implemented to investigate the causal association between asthma, GERD, and OA, including OA [overall, OA of the hip (HOA), and OA of the knee (KOA)], and two-step MR were used to explore possible mechanisms of them. Genetic variants were sourced from the UK Biobank and the EBI database. Various methods, including Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, Weighted Mode, Weighted Median, MR pleiotropy residual sum, and outlier (MR-PRESSO). The False Discovery Rate (FDR) method was used to reduce the risk of false positives further.
Results
Significant bidirectional relationships were found between asthma and GERD, and between GERD and all OA subtypes. Asthma showed bidirectional relationships with overall OA and KOA, but not with HOA. NSAIDs may have a protective role in transitioning from OA to asthma, but its mediating effect in the OA-GERD relationship was inconclusive.
Conclusion
Our study sheds light on the complex causal relationships among asthma, GERD, and OA. The findings emphasize the need for further mechanistic studies and have significant clinical implications.
Assessing the Impact of Family Caregivers in Clinical Encounter Participation on Patient Activation in the Metastatic Breast Cancer Setting
Authors: Henderson Nicole L. , Padalkar Tanvi , Bourne Garrett , Hendrix Emma K. , Williams Courtney P. , Odom J. Nicholas , Triebel Kristen , Rocque Gabrielle 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
Caregivers support individuals undergoing cancer treatment by assisting with activities, managing care, navigating healthcare systems, and communicating with care teams. We explored the quantity and quality of caregiver participation during recorded clinical appointments in women with metastatic breast cancer.
Methods
This was a convergent parallel mixed methods study. Caregiver participation quality was operationalized using a summative thematic content analysis to identify and sum caregiver roles performed during appointments. Caregiver participation quantity was measured by calculating the proportion of speaking time. Participation quality and quantity were compared to patient activation, assessed using the Patient Activation Measure.
Results
Fifty-three clinical encounters were recorded. Identified caregiver roles included: General Support; Management of Treatment or Medication; Treatment History; Decision-Making; Insurance or Money; Pharmacy; Scheduling; Travel Concerns; General Cancer Understanding; Patient Specific Cancer Understanding; Caregiver-Initiated or Emphasis on Symptom Severity; and Caregiver Back-Up of Patient Symptom Description. Caregivers averaged 5 roles (SD 3): 48% of patients had low quality (< 5 roles) and 52% had high quality (> 6 roles). Regarding quantity, caregivers spoke on average for 4% of the encounter, with 60% of patients having low quantity (< 4%) and 40% of patients having high quantity (> 4%). Greater quality and quantity of caregiver participation was associated with greater patient activation.
Conclusions
Caregivers perform a variety of roles during oncological decision-making visits aiding both patient and provider. Greater participation in terms of quantity and quality by the caregiver was associated with greater patient activism, indicating a need for better integration of the caregiver in clinical decision-making environments.
In vivo brain frontal and occipital glutathione levels are unchanged in autistic adults
Authors: Pereira Andreia C. , Leonard Alison , Velthuis Hester , Wong Nichol M. L. , Ponteduro Francesca M. , Dimitrov Mihail , Ellis Claire L. , Kowalewski Lukasz , Lythgoe David J. , Rotaru Diana-Georgina , Edden Richard A. E. , Ivin Glynis , Pretzsch Charlotte M. , Daly Eileen , Murphy Declan G. M. , McAlonan Gráinne M. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
The neurobiological underpinnings of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are diverse and likely multifactorial. One possible mechanism is increased oxidative stress leading to altered neurodevelopment and brain function. However, this hypothesis has mostly been tested in post-mortem studies. So far, available in vivo studies in autistic individuals have reported no differences in glutathione (GSH) levels in frontal, occipital, and subcortical regions. However, these studies were limited by the technically challenging quantification of GSH, the main brain antioxidant molecule. This study aimed to overcome previous studies limitations by using GSH-tailored spectroscopy sequences and optimised quantification methodology to provide clarity on GSH levels in autistic adults.
Methods
We used spectral editing proton-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) combined with linear combination model fitting to quantify GSH in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC) and medial occipital cortex (mOCC) of autistic and non-autistic adults (male and female). We compared GSH levels between groups, also considering biological sex effects. We also examined correlations between GSH and current autism symptoms, measured using the Autism Quotient (AQ).
Results
Data were available from 31 adult autistic participants (24 males, 7 females) and 40 non-autistic participants (21 males, 16 females); the largest sample to date. The GSH levels did not differ between groups in either region. No biological sex-effects or correlations with AQ were observed.
Limitations
: Our study was limited to two brain regions, but GSH levels may be altered in other regions. Additionally, we do not know if our findings generalise to other cohorts (e.g. those with intellectual disability or epilepsy). Oxidative stress can be captured more comprehensively through the ratio of GSH to glutathione disulphide (GSSG), however GSSG concentration is not detectable with 1H-MRS, thus we cannot rule out the possibility that GSSG levels, and consequently GSH/GSSG ratios were altered in this ASD cohort.
Conclusions
GSH levels as measured using 1H-MRS are unaltered in the DMPFC and mOCC regions of autistic adults, suggesting that oxidative stress in these cortical regions is not a marked neurobiological signature of ASD.
MRI grading for informed clinical decision-making in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome patients with cervical lesions
Authors: Jiang Anqi , Chen Yiqing , Ning Yan , Yu Bing , Wang Hui , Ma Fenghua , Xu Congjian , Kang Yu 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective:
The preoperative diagnosis and management of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) patients with cervical lesions remains problematic. This study analyzed the associations between pathological types of cervical lesions in PJS patients and their imaging features, aiming to grade the potential malignancy and provide recommendations for clinical decision-making accordingly.
Methods:
A total of 34 PJS patients who attended the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University from October 2017 to August 2023 were included. Two experienced physicians reviewed their MRIs independently.
Results:
Based on pathological diagnosis, the patients were categorized into four groups: normal (n = 4), lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (LEGH, n = 11), atypical lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (aLEGH, n = 8), and gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (G-EAC, n = 11). The mean age of 34 patients was 33.2 ± 8.4 years. Increased vaginal discharge was very common (20/34) and significant difference was observed among the four groups (P = .004). Through observing imaging features, we found statistically significant differences in the extent of lesions (P = .001), distribution of microcysts (P = .001), proportion of microcysts (P < .001) and endometrium invasion (P = .019) among the four groups. Notablely, the solid components and disrupted cervical stromal ring were only found within the aLEGH and G-EAC groups (P < .001). We proposed grading criteria to re-diagnose their images, with an overall consistency rate of 94.1% (32/34). Finally, we applied our grading criteria and corresponding clinical decisions to 2 PJS patients who had not yet undergone biopsy.
Conclusions:
We used MRI to grade the potential malignancy of cervical lesions and proposed appropriate management recommendations for PJS patients, which facilitated the collaboration between radiologists and physicians.
Pest management strategies under changing climates: Targeting life history vulnerabilities in the redlegged earth mite, Halotydeus destructor (Tucker)
Authors: Maino James L. , Umina Paul A. , Pavri Celia , Cheng Xuan , Ridsdill-Smith James 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As climate change continues to modify temperature and moisture patterns, risks from pests and diseases may change as shifting temperature and rainfall conditions affect the range and activity of insects and diseases. The potential consequences of changing climate on pest management strategies must be understood for control measures to adapt to new environmental conditions. The redlegged earth mite (RLEM; Halotydeus destructor [Tucker]) is a prevalent pest that attacks pastures and crops across southern Australia and is typically controlled by pesticides. TIMERITE® is a pest management strategy focused on timing chemical control of RLEM populations during a critical period of vulnerability in the mite’s lifecycle based on historical climate. In this study, we enhance the TIMERITE® strategy by incorporating dynamic management and climatic conditions. Our findings demonstrate that climate change over the past two decades have generally shifted the optimal control window to earlier in the year, with future changes predicted to further shift optimal timings. Moreover, we extend the optimal control date of TIMERITE® to an optimal control window during spring, which maintains control efficacy against RLEM above 95% of the theoretical maximum. Overall, this research emphasizes the importance of accounting for dynamic environmental responses when developing and implementing pest management strategies to ensure their long-term effectiveness. The increased robustness and flexibility of the updated TIMERITE® strategy will help farmers maintain pest control outcomes while balancing other farm management responsibilities, such as disease and weed management, ultimately leading to cost savings.