bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Solar Wind Speed Estimate with Machine Learning Ensemble Models for LISA
Authors: Sabbatini Federico , Grimani Catia 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In this work we study the potentialities of machine learning models in reconstructing the solar wind speed observations gathered in the first Lagrangian point by the ACE satellite in 2016--2017 using as input data galactic cosmic-ray flux variations measured with particle detectors hosted on board the LISA Pathfinder mission also orbiting around L1 during the same years. We show that ensemble models composed of heterogeneous weak regressors are able to outperform weak regressors in terms of predictive accuracy. Machine learning and other powerful predictive algorithms open a window on the possibility of substituting dedicated instrumentation with software models acting as surrogates for diagnostics of space missions such as the European Space Agency LISA mission and space weather science.
Crop Production in Semi-arid Tropics With Help of Only Tree Leaves and Its Components - a New Focus in Agroforestry Research
Authors: Chitraputhirapillai Swaminathan , Kaliyanna Sangeetha , Palani Nivethadevi , Pandian Kannan , Ramamurthy Surya 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Consumers are increasingly asking for "organic" labels on food due to negative consequences of indiscriminate pesticide use, and hence, we are pushed to produce environmentally friendly food, using organic, natural farming and agroforestry methods. This article discusses an innovative yet traditional method of growing food crops using solely trees, their by products, and parts to nurture and protect crops, and preserve soil fertility. Both native and introduced leguminous tree leaves work to improve soil fertility while tree leaf extracts give crops foliar nutrition and disease, pest protection. The performance of tree based farming practices with conventional practice of crop cultivation was compared by adopting standard crop production guide (CPG) practices and zero input (do-nothing) practice in kodomillet during Rabi seasons of 2020–21 and 2021–22 (November–February) at experimental farm. Soil enrichment with Gliricidia sepium (jacq.) Steud tree leaf biomass incorporation and four-time foliar application of tree leaf extracts with Annona squamosa (L.) registered highest pooled (mean of two years) grain yield (974 kg− 1) and straw yield (2887 kg− 1), with a meagre yield penalty of less than 10% in comparison to the CPG practice.
Impact of Prolonged Antibiotic Treatment on Gut and Kidney Microbiota: Insights from a Rat Model
Authors: Liu Fengping , Xu Zhengyi , Lin Hao , Tang Yifang , Hu Lei , Sheng Jiayi , Jiang Peng , Wei Shichao , Gu Chaoqun , Gu Yifeng , Wei Qun , Guo Hao , Zhou Xiang , Li Zhou , Wang Shiyu , Zhao Yu , Li Zhi , Wu Yufan , Feng Ninghan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Maintaining a harmonious microbiota is fundamental for overall well-being. This study aims to investigate the consequences of one- and two-week antibiotic treatments on gut and kidney microbiota using a rat model and assess structural and physiological changes.
Methods
Male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with an antibiotic cocktail for UTIs. Samples of jejunum and kidney tissues were collected for analysis. Bacterial DNA was isolated and sequenced. Histomorphological analysis of the jejunum and kidney tissues was performed. Data on growth and development parameters and kidney function were recorded.
Results
Differential changes in gut microbiota composition were observed between one-week and two-week antibiotic treatments. Two-week treatment led to reduced bacterial richness and diversity, with a shift from Firmicutes and Bacteroidota to Proteobacteria. Beneficial genera like Akkermansia and Lactobacillus decreased, while potentially harmful genera like Escherichia-Shigella and Corynebacterium increased. Intestinal mucosal damage was evident in both treatment groups. Prolonged antibiotic treatment resulted in reduced body weight, food intake, feces output, and urine output. Kidney function was affected in the two-week treatment group.
Conclusions
Prolonged antibiotic treatment for UTIs has significant effects on gut microbiota, mucosal integrity, and rat physiology, with potential implications for overall health. These findings emphasize the importance of considering the duration of antibiotic therapy and the need for tailored treatment regimens that minimize gut microbiota disruption.
Genomic re-annotation and expression analyses of B3 genes reveal lineage-specific evolution and potential roles of REM genes in pepper
Authors: Park Young-Soo , Cho Hye Jeong , Kim Seungill 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
The B3 gene family, one of the largest plant-specific transcription factors, plays important roles in plant growth, seed development, and hormones. However, the B3 gene family, especially the REM subfamily, has not been systematically and functionally studied.
Results
In this study, we performed genome-wide re-annotation of B3 genes in five Solanaceae plants, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Oryza sativa, and finally predicted 1,039 B3 genes, including 231 (22.2%) newly annotated genes. We found a striking abundance of REM genes in pepper species (Capsicum annuum, Capsicum baccatum, and Capsicum chinense). Comparative motif analysis revealed that REM and other subfamilies (ABI3/VP1, ARF, RAV, and HSI) consist of different amino acids. We verified that the large number of REM genes in pepper were included in the specific subgroup (G8) through the phylogenetic analysis. Chromosome location and evolutionary analyses suggested that the G8 subgroup genes evolved mainly via a pepper-specific recent tandem duplication on chromosomes 1 and 3 after speciation between pepper and other Solanaceae. RNA-seq analyses suggested the potential functions of REM genes under salt, heat, cold, and mannitol stress conditions in pepper (C. annuum).
Conclusions
Our study provides evolutionary and functional insights into the REM gene family in pepper.
Task-oriented and change preserving data classification for multi-temporal choropleth maps
Authors: Schiewe Jochen 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Series or animations of classified choropleth maps are an important form of reproducing multi-temporal, cardinally scaled data sets, especially in media. However, there are problems with such representations that are not taken into account by the known methods of data classification (such as equidistant grouping or quantiles), and therefore lead to visualisations that are not sufficiently suitable for use.
On the one hand, different questions and change analyses tasks are not explicitly considered in the process of making these maps. In the following, typical change tasks are singled out (i.e. show absolute differences, absolute percentage changes, positive changes, deviations from the trend) and corresponding metrics for quantitative description are proposed. On the other hand, there are no measures in the usual procedures to avoid the loss of significant changes after classification (i.e. the regions belong to the same class). In the following, a procedure is therefore proposed that begins with rules for assigning value differences to class differences (e.g. based on statistical significance). Based on this, a preservation measure is defined that describes the success of obtaining the desired class differences after applying the classification. This measure can also be used to guide a new classification procedure. Using two multi-temporal data sets, the effects of the developed measures and methods are demonstrated both numerically and visually in corresponding choropleth maps.
Is it possible to predict severe postpartum hemorrhage and need for massive transfusion in placenta previa cases?
Authors: Köle Emre , Akar Bertan , Doğer Emek , Köle Merve Çakır , Anık Yonca , Çalışkan Eray 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Purpose
We aimed to construct a trustable working model for the placenta previa (PP) patients that helps to predict the postpartum bleeding potential with the input gained from the antenatal imaging studies, namely ultrasound (US) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
Materials and Methods
Forty-three PP patients were evaluated first by US and then 3 Tesla MRI. Placenta Accreata Index (PAI) was utilized during US evaluation in order to define the risks. Uterine bulging, heterogeneous signal, dark placental bands, focal interruption of myometrium and, tenting of bladder wall were regarded as predictive criterions in MRI evaluations. The correlation between the findings gained from US and MRI studies and haemorrhage (> 1000 ml), severe haemorrhage (> 2000 ml) and, massive transfusion (> 5 units of RBC) need was investigated to build this predictive model. The findings from the imaging studies were also confirmed histopathologically
Results
In the multivariate analysis of data from patients in either group of classification according to set point of 1000 ml., none of MRI and ultrasound findings were found to be predictive. The multivariate analysis done in second classification group (bleeding > 2000ml or more) PAI values (OR:2.3(1.4–3.8)) and overall MRI reported PAS (OR:4.9 (1.8–12.9)) were detected as predictive findings. While MRI findings were not discriminative between transfusion groups, grade 3 loculation in ultrasound examination was found to be predictive for need of transfusion more than 5 units (OR: 67,5 (8,2-549,4)). We had no cases of hysterectomy.
Conclusions
The ultrasound and MRI findings of PP cases can be useful to predict postpartum bleeding.
Nomogram Using Intratumoral and Peritumoral Radiomics For the Preoperative Prediction of Visceral Pleural Invasion in Clinical Stage IA Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Yun , Lyu Deng , Hu Su , Ma Yanqing , Duan Shaofeng , Geng Yayuan , Zhou Taohu , Tu Wenting , Xiao Yi , Fan Li , Liu Shiyuan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Purpose
To investigate the value of intratumoral and peritumoral radiomics nomograms for preoperatively predicting the presence of visceral pleural invasion (VPI) in patients diagnosed with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) .
Methods
A total of 404 patients from our hospital were randomly assigned to a training set (n = 283) and an internal validation set (n = 121) using a 7:3 ratio, while 81 patients from two other hospitals constituted the external validation set. We extracted 1218 CT-based radiomics features from the gross tumor volume (GTV) as well as the gross peritumoral tumor volume (GPTV), which included peritumoral regions at 5mm, 10mm, and 15 mm to construct a radiomics model. Additionally, we developed a nomogram based on relevant CT features and the radscore derived from the optimal radiomics model.
Results
The GPTV10 radiomics model exhibited superior predictive performance compared to GTV, GPTV5, and GPTV15, with AUC values of 0.855, 0.842, and 0.842 in the three respective sets. In the clinical model, the solid component size, pleural indentation sign, solid attachment sign, and vascular convergence sign were identified as independent risk factors among the CT features. The predictive performance of the nomogram, which incorporated relevant CT features and the GPTV10-Radscore, outperformed both the radiomics model and clinical model alone, with AUC values of 0.894, 0.828, and 0.876 in the three respective sets.
Conclusions
Our nomogram, integrating radiomics features and CT morphological features, exhibits good performance in predicting VPI status in LUAD.
Clinical utility of voiding cystourethrogramfollowing kidney abscess in children.
Authors: Miller Nicholas , Preka Evgenia , Avramescu Marina , Berteloot Laureline , Vinit Nicolas , Botto Nathalie , Grapin Mathilde , Prévot Maud , Boistault Margaux , Garcelon Nicolas , Taghavi Kiarash , Schrimpf Cecile , Cohen Jérémie F , Blanc Thomas , Boyer Olivia 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: Limited research on paediatric kidney abscesses exists, and international guidelines on whether this should be an indication for systematic voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) are lacking. This study evaluates VCUG’s clinical utility after initial kidney abscess presentation in otherwise healthy children.
Methods: This retrospective study included all children presenting to a tertiary paediatric reference centre with a first kidney abscess over one decade (2011-2022).
Results: Among the 17 patients (median age 9 months, IQR; 6 months-6 years), VCUG identified vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in five (29%; 95%CI: 13-53%), including two with grade IV-V. Treatment consisted of 10-21 days of intravenous antibiotics (5 days of bitherapy) followed by oral treatment for 2-6 weeks.
Median abscess size was 19mm (IQR; 14-27). 8/17 (47%) children presented focal areas of hypoperfusion on ultrasound, including one case of renal atrophy. Three of six children with DMSA scan showed hypofunctioning (33-44%), and one had a non-functioning kidney. The proportion of children with scars on the DMSA scan was similar, regardless of identified VUR.
Seven children had subsequent pyelonephritis; three with uropathy underwent surgery (one circumcision, one ureteric reimplantation, and one nephrectomy). 10/17 had no subsequent pyelonephritis, including three with VUR grade I-III.
Conclusions: Among initial kidney abscess cases, 29% had VUR, similar to children experiencing their first uncomplicated pyelonephritis. Surgery was mainly indicated for recurrent pyelonephritis with kidney scarring, regardless of VCUG results. Conversely, VCUG guided prophylactic antibiotherapy. We recommend employing similar VCUG indications for pyelonephritis or abscess after a second febrile UTI or if imaging suggests high-grade VUR or kidney scaring.
Modeling the social internet of things network using random graphs
Authors: Bagheri Asma , Romoozi Morteza , Babaei Hamideh , karimi Soraya 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Social Internet of Things (SIOT) is a paradigm in which thing communicate with one another based on social relation. The goals is for the things to search for services, retrieve and provide users with them independent from their owners. The existing approaches lack models for analyzing the efficiency of SIOT. The objective of the current research is to model SIOT with regard to various relationships and their different topological properties. In this approach, the graphs related to SIOT are modeled based on similarity of their topological properties and random graphs in such a way that these properties are preserved by increasing the size of the network, the intended topological properties are preserved. For this purpose, first, topological properties of real SIOT graphs have been extracted. Then, using numerical and intuitive comparisons, the degree of resemblance between SIOT topological properties and random graphs has been examined. In order to prove this resemblance and network scalability, the connection between average route length and descending gradient algorithm has been implemented. The obtained results have shown the resemblance of ownership object relationship (OOR) real graph to Erdos Renyi (ER) random graph per p = 0.9, parental object relationship (POR) graph to ER random graph per p = 0.009, co-location object relationship (CLOR) graph to ER random graph per p = 0.00009 and social object relationship (SOR) graph to Barbasi Albert (BA) random graph per m = 50. In order to evaluate the proposed framework, the real SIOT dataset has been used and the scalability and maintaining the topological properties have been proven.
Costs and cost drivers of comprehensive sexual reproductive health services to female sex workers in Kenya
Authors: Manguro Griffins O. , Kioko Urbanus Mutuku , Githinji Gerald , Owira Patricia , Langat Lillian , Okoro Dan , Temmerman Marleen , Luchters Stanley 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background:
Comprehensive sexual reproductive health (SRH) programs for female sex workers (FSW) offering clinical, behavioural, and structural interventions have contributed to declining rates of HIV in this population. However, data on costs and cost drivers is needed to support programs and their donors to better allocate resources, make an investment case for continued funding, and to identify areas of improvement in program design and implementation. We aimed to estimate the annual per-FSW costs of comprehensive services for a standalone FSW program in Kenya.
Methods:
We implemented a top-bottom and step-down costing study of comprehensive FSW services at two drop-in centres (DICs), Mtwapa and Kilifi town, in Kilifi County, Kenya. Service costs were obtained from routinely collected patient data during FSW scheduled and unscheduled visits using Kenyan Ministry of Health records. Costing data were from the program and organization’s expenditure reports, cross checked against bank documents and supported by information from in-depth interviews. Data were collected retrospectively for the fiscal year 2019. We obtained approval from the AMREF Research Ethics Committee (AMREF-ESRC P862/2020).
Results:
In 2019, the unit cost of comprehensive services was 105.93 USD per FSW per year, roughly equivalent to 10,593 Kenya shillings, in 2019. Costs were higher at Mtwapa DICs compared to Kilifi town DIC; 121.90 USD and 89.90 USD respectively. HIV counselling and testing cost 63.90 USD per person, PrEP was 34.20 USD and family planning was 9.93 USD. Of the total costs, staff salaries accounted for about 60%.
Conclusion:
Programs should strive to maximize the number of FSW served to benefit from economies of scale. Given that personnel costs contribute most to the unit costs, programs should consider alternative designs which reduce personnel and other costs such as by integrating FSW services to public and private facilities, though this may adversely impact service uptake.
How does digitalization improve non-resource tax revenue mobilization? Evidence from developing countries
Authors: TINTA Jule Kaïni 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
This paper examines the effect of digitalization on non-resource tax revenue mobilization in developing countries. Panel data from 111 countries selected between 2005 to 2019 have enabled us to carry out econometric estimates based on fixed effects. Our empirical analysis uses the digitalization index composed of the ICT access and use index. The results suggest that digitalization positively influences non-resource tax revenue mobilization in developing countries. The results also support the view that access to ICT is a readiness phase for its usage. More interestingly, the favorable effect of digitalization is sensitive to the characteristics of developing countries, namely the level of economic development , the level of digitalization, and the quality of institutions. Furthermore, we use an instrumentalization strategy to correct the endogeneity bias that might result from our model. We use connectivity shocks linked to the telecoms infrastructure, i.e., technical failures of submarine cables. This connectivity shock minimizes the under-identification problem and clarifies the channels linking Internet diffusion and submarine cable connec-tivity. The results argue that countries with experience repairing these failures have a higher level of digitalization conducive to tax revenue mobilization. Furthermore, the results remain robust after further robustness tests (reverse causality and dynamic effect). These results support our argument that developing countries could benefit significantly from digitalization by adopting policies promoting ICT access.
JEL Classification : H20; O11; 033; 055
Habitat selection of Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) in urban rivers: the effects of urbanization, water quality, and river structure
Authors: Lee Gun-Joo , Cho Hyun Jin , Cheon Seung Ju , Lee Hak Young 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
This study was motivated by the increasing presence of Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) in densely populated urban areas despite their well-known susceptibility to urbanization. We assessed the spraint marking intensity indicators along the Gwangju Stream in South Korea in 2020 and 2021. In this study, we aimed to determine otter habitat preferences in an urban river and examine the impact of urbanization, water quality, and river structure on otter habitat selection. We tested two hypotheses: (1) otters inhabiting urban rivers are more likely to favor suburban areas over highly urbanized areas, and (2) heterogeneous habitat conditions in urban rivers promote otter presence. We utilized generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) and self-organizing maps (SOMs) with 21 variables (eight related to river structure, seven related to urbanization, and six related to water quality) to elucidate our hypotheses. Our results indicated that otter spraint marking intensity indicators were more prevalent in highly urbanized areas, with river structure serving as the primary factor influencing otter habitat selection in urban rivers. Our SOM results highlight the possibility of otters inhabiting highly urbanized areas in scenarios where artificial structures perform a protective function and extensive gravel pits serve as alternative habitats. This study suggests that coexistence between humans and otters is possible, and it may contribute to the development of sustainable urban planning strategies.
Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy for the difficult gallbladder.
Authors: Grubnyk Volodymyr , Parfentiev Roman , Grubnik Yurii , Grubnyk Viktor , Ilyashenko Vadym 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: Successful cholecystectomy hinges on accurate identification and secure closure of the cystic duct, a process made significantly more difficult when inflammation alters the usual anatomy. Especially when performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Subtotal laporoscopic cholecystectomy provides a solution by permitting near-total gallbladder removal and thorough stone evacuation, thus bypassing dissection in dangerous regions.
The aim of this study was to analyze our clinical experience with LSC in respect to safety, early and long-term outcomes.
Methods. We analyzed the operative records of 7188 patients who underwent LC from January 2005 to September 2019 in our clinic. In the first period from 2005 to 2008, in patients with technically difficult cases (Grade 3,4 Nassar) we performed conversion to open procedure, in the second period from 2009 to 2019 in patients with technically difficult cases (Grade 3,4 Nassar) we performed laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy instead of conversion to open procedure.
Results. During the I period from 2005 to 2008 LC was performed in 2720 patients. Serious technical difficulties (Nasar, Grade 3-4) were seen in 127 patients (4,7 %), 57 (45%) men and 70 (55%) women. In the second period from 2009 to 2019 LC was performed in 4468 patients. There was no significant difference between patients operated in the first and second period.Technical difficulties (Nassar, Grade 4) were seen in 134 (3%) patients.
Conclusion. Our study shows that LCS can be useful for the management of severe cholecystitis and difficult gallbladders. Our patients who underwent LCS had good outcomes with low incidence of complications. LCS is a safe alternative that minimizes the risk of bile duct and portal structure injuries.
LCS is an effective technique in patients with severe inflammation of gallbladders and fibrosis of cystohepatic triangle. Using LCS can dramatically improve the results of laparoscopic operations in patients with gallbladder disease.