bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic variation of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) in Eurasia: impact of postglacial recolonization and human-mediated gene transfer
Authors: Żukowska Weronika Barbara , Wójkiewicz Błażej , Lewandowski Andrzej , László Richárd , Wachowiak Witold 
Published: October 2023

AbstractKey messageThe range-wide level of genetic variation of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestrisL.) is geographically structured. High admixture and low genetic structure of populations in Central Europe and Fennoscandia suggest past recolonization from multiple sources and the influence of human-mediated gene transfer. Gene pools of marginal and isolated stands require active conservation. Some areas of Scots pine distribution need further genetic studies.ContextScots pine (Pinus sylvestrisL.) seems to be a species of low conservation priority because it has a very wide Eurasian distribution and plays a leading role in many forest tree breeding programs. Nevertheless, considering its economic value, long breeding history, range fragmentation, and increased mortality, which is also projected in the future, it requires a more detailed description of its genetic resources.AimsOur goal was to compare patterns of genetic variation found in biparentally inherited nuclear DNA with previous research carried out with mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA due to their different modes of transmission.MethodsWe analyzed the genetic variation and relationships of 60 populations across the distribution of Scots pine in Eurasia (1262 individuals) using a set of nuclear DNA markers.ResultsWe confirmed the high genetic variation and low genetic differentiation of Scots pine spanning large geographical areas. Nevertheless, there was a clear division between European and Asian gene pools. The genetic variation of Asian populations was lower than in Europe. Spain, Turkey, and the Apennines constituted separate gene pools, the latter showing the lowest values of all genetic variation parameters. The analyses showed that most populations experienced genetic bottlenecks in the distant past. Ongoing admixture was found in Fennoscandia.ConclusionsOur results suggest a much simpler recolonization history of the Asian than European part of the Scots pine distribution, with migration from limited sources and possible founder effects. Eastern European stands seem to have descended from the Urals refugium. It appears that Central Europe and Fennoscandia share at least one glacial refugium in the Balkans and migrants from higher latitudes, as well as from south-eastern regions. The low genetic structure between Central Europe and Fennoscandia, along with their high genetic admixture, may result at least partially from past human activities related to the transfer of germplasm in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. In light of ongoing climate changes and projected range shifts of Scots pine, conservation strategies are especially needed for marginal and isolated stands of this species. Genetic research should also be complemented in parts of the species distribution that have thus far been poorly studied.
A study on how efficient measures for secondary district heating system performance can be encouraged by motivational tariffs
Authors: Lygnerud Kristina , Nyberg Theo , Nilsson Anna , Fabre Antoine , Stabat Pascal , Duchayne Chloé , Gavan Valentin 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
District Heating (DH) is a technology that provides heating and domestic hot water to buildings and is an important technology for supporting the European energy transition. As such the heating systems increasingly resort to renewable heat sources and waste heat, it is even more important that they operate in the most efficient way possible. DH companies have access to the primary network of which they can impact system performance. To maximize the efficiency of the system, however, it is important that the system at the building level, known as the secondary system, is also efficient; otherwise, overall system efficiency is reduced. To increase system efficiency, return temperatures from the secondary system into the primary system have been targeted through motivational tariffs. There is limited information on how to establish a motivational tariff that motivates the customer to improve both the primary and secondary systems, which is a gap that this paper aims to fill.

Results
In this paper, the impacts of retrofit actions in secondary systems are assessed through simulations. The identified relevant refurbishment measures to lower the return temperature to the primary system are variable flow pumps, low-temperature radiators, parallel heat exchangers, and a pass-through DHW system. Apart from simulated refurbishments, we also identify that the secondary system sometimes generates excess heat, which is valuable to recover, especially during peak load periods for the primary system. Hence, motivational tariffs targeting secondary system efficiency should also encompass an incentive for the customer to make use of waste heat in the secondary circuit to lower peak demand for the DH system.

Conclusions
To date, the most commonly used parameters introduced to customers are linked to the flow of water through the customer’s asset and the bonus malus principle. The results from simulations show that DH companies can introduce additional parameters to support customers in guiding their secondary system to perform more efficiently. Increased overall system efficiency has a positive impact on both costs and emissions.
Effects of students’ self-reflection on improving essay writing achievement among Ethiopian undergraduate students: a counterbalanced design
Authors: Gebremariam Hailay Tesfay , Asgede Dagnew Mache 
Published: October 2023

AbstractReflection in education has seen an upsurge in research interest since as reported by Dewey (How we think, Prometheus Books, Buffalo, 1991) ground-breaking work, which plays an integral role in fostering students’ self-reflection and demonstrable learning skills. However there have not been enough studies to determine whether writing instruction from the perspective of self-reflection before action improves undergraduate students' essay writing achievement. This article investigates the effects of Ethiopian university-undergraduate students’ self-reflection before action on their essay writing achievement through the mediation of teaching writing instruction. The study's methodology involved two phases of intervention in a counterbalanced design. The participants were 47 male and female students aged 19–22, from Arba Minch University. They were assigned to a control group and an experimental group using the matched sampling technique. During the first phase, the experimental group (Group A) was instructed to engage in self-reflection-based course activities over a period of two months while the control group was not. In the second phase Group B was engaged in self-reflection-based course activities over a period of two months while Group A was kept under control. To collect data, preliminary students’ self-reflection was provided using an open-ended questionnaire, and pre- and post-tests of writing were given to both groups. Mean and standard deviation statistics were applied after the thematic analysis of the qualitative data. Additionally, a univariate analysis of variance was performed to answer the query regarding the impact of self-reflection on students' essay writing performance. The findings demonstrated that, despite the students encountering numerous difficulties during their essay-writing exercises; the self-reflection-based instruction had a significant positive impact on the participants' essay-writing achievement. In conclusion, the findings have some implications for teaching essay writing instructions.
Infection prevention measures for patients on hemodialysis during COVID-19 pandemic in Japan: a nationwide questionnaire follow-up survey in 2022
Authors: Hashiba Toyohiro , Suagawara Yuka , Iwagami Masao , Yamakawa Tomoyuki , Ryuzaki Munekazu , Kikuchi Kan , Kadowaki Takashi , Nangaku Masaomi 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to be prevalent in 2023, and infection control measures against it remain important in medical practice. In 2020, we conducted a questionnaire survey mainly on the implementation of infection prevention measures for patients on hemodialysis under COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. Since then, vaccination for COVID-19 has been initiated and the outbreak of new variants had occurred. Infection prevention measures at dialysis facilities have possibly changed; therefore, we conducted a follow-up survey.

Methods
Between October 11 and November 14, 2022, we distributed a questionnaire survey to 4,198 dialysis facilities in Japan. The survey investigated (i) the characteristics of the facilities, (ii) infection prevention measures in routine dialysis practice, (iii) experience in treating COVID-19-positive/suspected dialysis patients, (iv) feasibility of various isolation measures, (v) nosocomial transmission, (vi) COVID-19 vaccination status, and (vii) impact on medical practice and economic aspects. We then compared the answers from the previous survey conducted in 2020 with those of the current survey.

Results
Responses were obtained from 1956 facilities (response rate: 46.6%). Overall, 83.5% of the facilities have examined and treated patients with COVID-19. While the compliance rate improved since the previous survey, it remained low for some factors such as linen exchange. More than 60% of the facilities reported that they were coping with a lack of manpower and space for isolation. Most patients at the surveyed facilities were vaccinated for COVID-19; only 2.8% were unvaccinated. Compared with unvaccinated patients, vaccinated patients had a lower infection rate (vaccinated 9.2% vs. unvaccinated 41.2%; crude risk ratio [RR] 0.22; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.22–0.23; p < 0.001) and mortality rates (vaccinated 0.3% vs. unvaccinated 6.6%; crude RR 0.05; 95% CI 0.04–0.06; p < 0.001).

Conclusion
The implementation rates of most of the infection prevention measures improved compared to those in the previous survey. However, labor shortages, lack of space, and problems coordinating with other medical facilities remain a challenge. COVID-19 vaccination was significantly associated with reduced infection and mortality in Japanese patients on hemodialysis, which should be confirmed by further studies with confounding adjustment.
A novel pyrazole–pyridine derivative (PPD) targets specific biological pathways in the larval stages of the northern house mosquito Culex pipiens Linnaeus (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Mohamed Doaa Shehata , Al-Fuhaid Nawal A. , Abeed Ahmed Abdou O. , Ibrahim Ahmed M. A. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Mosquitoes cause a variety of health problems in humans and pets. So, the control of mosquito larvae is one of the best ways to avoid health problems arising from diseases transmitted by these insects. There are various control mechanisms including mechanical, biological and chemical control. The latter, despite the presence of some obstacles associated with its use, is preferred because of its ability to supply rapid management results.

Result
A novel laboratory-synthesized chemical compound containing pyrazole and pyridine moieties (pyrazole–pyridine derivatives, PPD) was used to control and address the biological effects on Culex pipiens mosquito second larval instar. A sublethal concentration (LC30) of PPD inhibited larval growth by about 50%. Furthermore, the developmental time of larvae into pupae and the emergence of adults from the pupal stages were increased by about 20% and 17%, respectively. The ultrastructural studies on the midgut cells revealed that treated larvae suffered dramatic degeneration in the gastric caeca and the posterior midgut cells, while the anterior midgut epithelium appeared with an abundance of lysosomal activities. Additionally, treated larvae showed fluctuated activities in the levels of the detoxifying enzymes and increased levels in total antioxidants.

Conclusions
These results clearly show that pyrazole and pyridine moieties containing compounds can be used against larval stages of C. pipiens.
Rapid and validated UHPLC method for simultaneous determination of sofosbuvir, ledipasvir and paracetamol as commonly repurposed drugs for COVID-19 treatment: application in spiked human plasma
Authors: Gamal Sherif , Mohamed Gehad G. , Salih Said A. , Ezzeldin Menna I. , Mandour Asmaa A. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LDV), a combination of antiviral drugs, has been recently repurposed for COVID-19 management, according to Food and Drug Administration approval. Paracetamol (PAR) identified as a first-line antipyretic for COVID-19 symptoms' management. The use of these three drugs together has significantly influenced the management of COVID-19 by providing symptomatic relief via inhibiting viral activity. A validated ultra-high performance liquid chromatographic (UHPLC) method has been introduced for the quantification of these repurposed drugs in COVID-19 treatment. This novel chromatographic method allows the simultaneous detection of SOF, LDV, and PAR in bulk. Additionally, the method has been applied to determine the levels of SOF and LDV in human plasma samples with PAR used as an internal standard.

Results
A new UHPLC method was developed, using a mobile phase with a combination of acetonitrile and 0.1% orthophosphoric acid in a proportion of 42:58 (v/v).Flow rate was set at 0.4 ml/min, and UV detection was adjusted at 254 nm. The concentration of SOF, LDV, and PAR were measured by their corresponding peak areas, and showed linear relationships between concentration and peak area within the ranges of (5–60) µg/ml for SOF, (2–22) µg/ml for LDV, and (1–22) µg/ml for PAR. The presented UHPLC method was used to quantify the amounts of SOF, LDV, and PAR in both bulk samples and human plasma samples being spiked with the mentioned analytes. The elution process was completed within 4 min, with retention times of 3.28 min for SOF, 2.28 min for LDV, and 1.70 min for PAR. The method showed high separation selectivity, with an injection volume of 1µl. The precision, accuracy and repeatability of the method were found to be within acceptable limits.

Conclusion
The recently developed method has been successfully validated in accordance with the guidelines set by the International Council for Harmonization (ICH). This validation process ensures that the method is suitable for routine quality control analysis, making it convenient for regular use.
Evaluation of functional aerobic exercise capacity among chronic e-cigarette users compared to combustible cigarette smokers and non-smokers: a comparative study
Authors: Ammar Heba , Hashish Rania , Mohamed Ali Shrouk , Salem Ahmed , Hagras Abeer 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes have gained significant popularity as an alternative to traditional combustible tobacco smoking particularly among the youth. Although there is a growing prevalence of e-cigarette usage, the effects on cardiovascular function and physical capacity have not been adequately studied. The toxic products in combustible tobacco cigarettes negatively impact functional exercise capacity. However, the available data regarding the effect of e-cigarette use on functional exercise capacity are scarce. Thus, in the current study, we aimed to evaluate the functional aerobic exercise capacity among chronic e-cigarette users compared to combustible cigarette smokers and non-smokers.

Results
This comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted on 105 healthy volunteers. Participants were assigned into three study groups each consisting of 35 participants: chronic e-cigarette users, combustible cigarette smokers, and a non-smoker control group. Basal demographic and clinical data were similar in all groups. Mean heart rates and respiratory rates were significantly higher among e-cigarette smokers and combustible cigarette smokers compared to non-smoker controls (p < 0.001). Chronic e-cigarette users and combustible cigarette smokers had shorter 6-MWT distances compared to non-smokers (508.3, 488, and 616.6 m, respectively, p < 0.001). Borg scale scores after performing the six-minute walking test were significantly higher in chronic e-cigarette users and combustible cigarette smokers groups compared to non-smokers, where perceived exertion (4.9, 5.5, 2.1, respectively, p < 0.001), dyspnea (5.7, 6.5, 0.1, respectively, p < 0.001) and leg fatigue (4.2, 5.4, 1.4, respectively, p < 0.001).

Conclusion
In this cross-sectional study, significant evidence demonstrates that e-cigarette use is not harmless. This was particularly presented in apparently healthy e-cigarette users in comparison to the healthy non-smoker control group. Chronic e-cigarette use is associated with reduced functional capacity compared to non-smoker controls. This was signified by decreased 6MWT walking distances, higher Borg scale scores, and lower oxygen saturation percentages among the chronic electronic cigarette users as compared to non-smoker controls after performing the six-minute walking test. All the evaluated parameters in the current study were similarly reduced among both the e-cigarette users group and the combustible cigarette smokers group compared to non-smokers with no statistically significant differences between both smoker groups.
Identifying disappeared historic buildings of port of Callao using georeferencing
Authors: Celis Estrada Diego Javier , Chueca Francisco Felipe Quiroz , Grados Ruth Aracelis Manzanares 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe port of Callao is important for its varied historical and archaeological heritage, which includes several military buildings that were the main actors and witnesses of the colonial era of Peru (from the 16th century to the country’s independence from Spain early in the 19th century). Despite the studies that have been carried out on the basis of documents and some eventual archaeological excavations, the port’s main monument, namely, the Real Felipe Fortress, continues to hide very important information that could be used to understand the role that the fortress played in numerous historical events throughout the centuries. The main contribution of this study is the use of photogrammetry software and a Geographic Information System (GIS) to examine the Real Felipe Fortress. In this way, the nature of the atypical construction within the fortress is determined. As a result, it is possible to accurately establish the location of the defensive wall that surrounded the ancient city of Callao, as well as its first churches, whose records were lost after being destroyed by the 1746 earthquake and tsunami in Lima, the worst cataclysm registered in the history of Peru and South America. As a result, this study demonstrates that technology can be successfully used to establish and validate with great precision the existence of the location of churches that have been built in the port of Callao since the founding of Lima in the 16th century. Such identification allows architects, engineers and students who are interested in the history of monuments to discover hidden structures and buildings and carry out the necessary restoration and archaeological works, with the aim of recovering the history of the colonial architecture of Callao and other similar cities and ports worldwide.
Cost-Utility Analysis of Geriatric Assessment and Management in Older Adults With Cancer: Economic Evaluation Within 5C Trial
Authors: Sahakyan Yeva , Li Qixuan , Alibhai Shabbir M.H. , Puts Martine , Yeretzian Shant T. , Anwar Mohammed R. , Brennenstuhl Sarah , McLean Bianca , Strohschein Fay , Tomlinson George , Wills Aria , Abrahamyan Lusine 
Published: October 2023

PURPOSE Geriatric assessment (GA) is a guideline-recommended approach to optimize cancer management in older adults. We conducted a cost-utility analysis alongside the 5C randomized controlled trial to compare GA and management (GAM) plus usual care (UC) against UC alone in older adults with cancer. METHODS The economic evaluation, conducted from societal and health care payer perspectives, used a 12-month time horizon. The Canadian 5C study randomly assigned patients to receive GAM or UC. Quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) were measured using the EuroQol five dimension-5L questionnaire and health care utilization using cost diaries and chart reviews. We evaluated the incremental net monetary benefit (INMB) for the full sample and preselected subgroups. RESULTS A total of 350 patients were included, of whom 173 received GAM and 177 UC. At 12 months, the average QALYs per patient were 0.728 and 0.751 for GAM and UC, respectively (ΔQALY, −0.023 [95% CI, −0.076 to 0.028]). Considering a societal perspective, the total average costs (in 2021 Canadian dollars) per patient were $46,739 and $45,177 for GAM and UC, respectively (ΔCost, $1,563 [95% CI, −$6,583 to $10,403]). At a cost-effectiveness threshold of $50,000/QALY, GAM was not cost-effective compared with UC (INMB, −$2,713 [95% CI, −$11,767 to $5,801]). The INMB was positive ($2,984 [95% CI, −$7,050 to $14,179]; probability of being cost-effective, 72%) for patients treated with curative intent, but remained negative for patients treated with palliative intent (INMB, −$9,909 [95% CI, −$24,436 to $4,153]). Findings were similar considering a health care payer perspective. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first cost-utility analysis of GAM in cancer. GAM was cost-effective for patients with cancer treated with curative but not with palliative intent. The study provides further considerations for future adoption of GAM in practice.
Enhanced nucleation of bimodal molecular weight distribution polymers: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Zhai Zengqiang , Morthomas Julien , Fusco Claudio , Perez Michel , Lame Olivier 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
We perform coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CGMD) simulations to study the homogeneous nucleation of bimodal and unimodal molecular weight distribution polymers with equivalent average molecular weight. First, a statistical method is proposed to determine the critical nuclei and thus calculate the free energy barrier of nucleation. From the temperature dependence of diffusion coefficient, we also determine the activation energy of diffusion. Then we calculate the nucleation rate and find that it is consistent with the classical nucleation theory for homogeneous nucleation in semi-crystalline polymers. Compared with unimodal system, the bimodal system exhibits lower interfacial free energy and consequently lower free energy barrier for nucleation, while the two systems have similar activation energy for diffusion. This suggests that the promoted nucleation rate of bimodal molecular weight distribution polymer is a result of the reduction of interfacial free energy, which is eventually a consequence of chain-folding nucleation of long chain component.