bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A short-cut methodology for the spatial assessment of the biochemical river quality
Authors: Fluri Paola Di , Talia Valentina Di , Antonioni Giacomo , Domeneghetti Alessio 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The deterioration of superficial water quality is a relevant issue as regards water management. Today, most European rivers do not achieve qualitative standards defined by Directive 2000/60/EC (Water Framework Directive, WFD), while health status of many surface water bodies is still unknown. Within this context, we propose a new methodology to perform a semi-quantitative analysis of the pressure-state of a river starting from easily accessible data regarding the anthropic activities, thus attempting to overcome the endemic scarcity of monitoring records. This study proposes a procedure to: (i) evaluate the relative impact of different human activities; (ii) identify allocation points of different pollutant sources along the river by implementing a raster-based approach and (iii) determine a spatial biochemical water quality index. The developed index expresses the overall biochemical state of surface water induced by pollutant sources that may impact simultaneously on a single river segment, including establishments under so-called Seveso Directive, activities subjected to the IPPC-IED discipline, wastewater treatment plants and contaminated sites. The methodology has been tested over three rivers differently exposed to industrial and anthropogenic pressures: Reno, Enza and Parma rivers (Northern Italy). The comparison with monitored data offered convincing results, proving the consistency of the proposed index in reproducing the spatial variability of the river water quality. Although additional investigations are necessary, the developed methodology can represent a valuable tool to support decision-making processes and predictive studies in areas with no, or poor, water quality monitoring data.
Characterization of natural cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells in Cuban older adults
Authors: Hernández-Ramos Elizabeth , Marsán-Suárez Vianed , Casado-Hernández Imilla , Reyes-Zamora Mary Carmen , Heredia-Guerra Luis Felipe , Triana-Marrero Yenisey , Díaz-Domínguez Gabriela , Duarte-Pérez Yaneisy , Macías-Abraham Consuelo Milagros , Chang-Monteagudo Arturo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Introduction: The Cuban population has a high proportion of older adults and faces age-related changes in the immune system, known as immunosenescence. Natural killer T (NKT) cells and natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in innate inmunity and modulating adaptive immune responses. Their diminished function in older adults contributes to increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, tumors, and autoimmune diseases in this population group.
Objective: To characterize distribution of NKT and NK cells in Cuban older adults.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 30 Cuban older adults, considering age, sex and malignant neoplasm comorbidity as factors of influence on the values of NK and NKT. A linear regression model was used to analyze the data, as well as a two-tailed Mann-Whitney U test to compare independent samples. In addition, odds ratios were used as measures of effect. NK cells and NKT lymphocytes were quantified in peripheral blood using flow cytometry.
Results: In the studied populations of NK and NKT cells, age and sex did not show any significant differences. However, most cases exhibited values above the normal reference ranges, with the exception of one female patient. While no significant differences were found in the comparisons by sex and age, higher values of NK and NKT cells were observed in the group under 80 years old and in males. The adequate NK cell numbers in PB might be a protective factor against malignant neoplasms
Conclusions: NK and NKT cells play a fundamental role in the regulation of immune response and directly influence the impairment of immune response in older adults, age and sex showed no significant impact on NKT and NK cell counts and percentages. Nevertheless, the presence of adequate NK cell percentages might be a protective factor against malignant neoplasms.
Preoperative myosteatosis and prognostic nutritional index predict overall survival in older patients (aged ≥ 80 years) with resected biliary tract cancer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Utsumi Masashi , Inagaki Masaru , Kitada Koji , Tokunaga Naoyuki , Yunoki Kosuke , Sakurai Yuya , Okabayashi Hiroki , Hamano Ryosuke , Miyasou Hideaki , Tsunemitsu Yousuke , Otsuka Shinya 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background: Several studies have demonstrated the prognostic value of sarcopenia and the systemic inflammatory response in patients with cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic significance of sarcopenia (myopenia and myosteatosis) and systemic inflammatory markers in older patients (aged ≥ 80 years) with resected biliary tract cancer.
Methods: Patients who underwent resection for biliary tract cancer between July 2010 and January 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Myopenia and myosteatosis, as indicated by the psoas muscle index and intramuscular adipose tissue content/modified intramuscular adipose tissue content, were measured on preoperative computed tomography. Associations between clinicopathological characteristics, inflammation-based prognostic scores, and overall survival were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Univariate analysis showed that a low C-reactive protein-to-albuminratio (< 0.125), a low prognostic nutritional index (< 42), a low modified intramuscular adipose tissue content, a high T-stage (T3–4), lymph node metastasis, and postoperative complications were associated with worse overall survival in older patients (aged ≥ 80 years) with resected biliary tract cancer (n = 48). A low prognostic nutritional index (< 42) (P = 0.007), a low modified intramuscular adipose tissue content (P = 0.015), a high T-stage (T3–4)(P < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001), and postoperative complications (P = 0.017) were independent predictors of overall survival in multivariate analysis.
Conclusions: Preoperative myosteatosis and low prognostic nutritional index are independentprognostic factors for overall survival in older patients (aged ≥ 80 years) with resected biliary tract cancer. Preoperative myosteatosis and prognostic nutritional index may be useful for risk stratification and clinical decision-making. Early interventions, such as nutritional support and physical exercise, may improve outcomes after resection of biliary tract cancer.
Trial registration: Not applicable.
Hydromagnesite determination method based on Landsat8 and ZY1-02D data: A case study of the Jiezechaka Salt Lake in Tibet
Authors: Zhao Tianchen , Dai Jingjing , Zhao Yuanyi , Ye Chuanyong 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Hydromagnesite is a natural carbonate mineral that is widely distributed, but large sedimentary hydromagnesite deposits with industrial exploitation value are rare globally. In China, hydromagnesite is mainly distributed in the salt lake area of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Because of the harsh environment, it is difficult to use the traditional method to search for ore. Remote sensing technology has been successfully applied to research skarn, pegmatite lithium-beryllium, porphyry-epithermal, salt lake lithium, magmatic nickel-chromium, and orogenic gold deposits; however, research regarding remote sensing determination of hydromagnesite from salt lakes is lacking. We determined the mineral composition and content of hydromagnesite samples in the Jiezechaka area by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the reflection spectral curve of the hydromagnesite samples was measured using an ASD FieldSpec4 short-wave infrared spectrometer. The analysis indicated three and seven absorption valleys with high and low absorption intensities, respectively, in the reflectance spectral curves of the hydromagnesite samples in the Jiezechaka area. Then, on this basis, we used Landsat8 OLI and ZY1-02D AHSI data, with the mixture tuned matched filtering (MTMF) method to extract hydromagnesite information around Jiezechaka Salt Lake in Tibet. A confusion matrix operation was used to compare the determination results of the two types of data. Among them, the overall accuracy of the extraction results based on Landsat8 data was > 67%, and the kappa coefficient was 0.668. The overall accuracy of the extraction results based on ZY1-02D data was > 72%, and the kappa coefficient was 0.743. Finally, using overlay analysis of the two kinds of data determination results, we concluded that hydromagnesite outcrops in the Jiezechaka area are mainly distributed in the northwestern and southeastern regions of the lake. This study provides a rapid assessment technique for measuring hydromagnesite information from salt lakes.
Identifying Stage-Specific Genes in Disease Progression using Transition Centrality on Disease Temporal Graphs
Authors: Sahu Shailendra , T. Sobha Rani 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The search for biomarkers of diseases has traditionally involved analyzing disease data as a whole. But this approach has largely ignored the significance of disease progression at different stages. Acknowledging the fact that different genes may be responsible for disease progression in different stages, we have developed a novel approach to analyse the temporal graphs that employs a modified version of betweenness centrality, known as ''transition centrality''. Applying this measure to the stage-wise data of three common diseases, namely Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Human breast cancer, we identified successfully a set of genes that may be key players in disease progression. The findings reveal that stage-specific genes can be identified using transition centrality as the specificity of these genes in a particular stage was validated through an extensive review of the relevant literature. Remarkably, this analysis yielded a number of promising disease-related genes for each of the diseases that have been studied, such as RARA and NOS1 in Alzheimer's disease, LRRK2 in Parkinson's disease, and BRCA1, ACTB, TYMS, and many others in human breast cancer. Our results demonstrate that the transition centrality analysis can be utilized to identify stage-specific genes of diseases.
Electrochemical determination of fenuron herbicide in water environmental samples by electro-reduced graphene oxide sensor
Authors: Borges Pedro H. S. , Breslin Carmel B. , Nossol Edson 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Fenuron (FEN) is a herbicide that acts as a weed growing inhibitor in crops. Due to its persistence and good solubility in water, its presence in water bodies is emerging as a concern for aquatic species. Herein, we propose a simple development of an electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sensor for the monitoring of FEN in water samples. The electrochemical determination of FEN showed the best performance in a 0.1 mol L− 1 NaCl solution (pH = 2.5). Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was performed using optimal parameters and resulted in two linear ranges (0.4–12 µmol L− 1 and 20 to 50 µmol L− 1) with high sensitivities of 6.83 and 1.9 µA µmol− 1 L, respectively, and a low LD of 0.34 µmol L− 1. Stability, reproducibility, and interference tests showed that rGO is sufficiently reliable to be used as a sensor of FEN in real samples. Spiked tap and canal water samples returned recoveries close to 100%, exhibiting no statistically significant difference when compared to a UV-Vis method by an average paired t-test, attesting the viability of the rGO modified electrode as a promising sensor of FEN in environmental water samples.
Research and Experiment on Repairing Damaged Jacket with Grouting Clamp Parametric Design Method
Authors: Zhang Bo , Lu Zheming , Wang Zhuo , Ma Hongwen 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
This article studies the development of local rod defects caused by collisions between offshore platform jackets and ships, and proposes a parameterized design method for grouting clamps. We use clamps to reinforce and repair the defective areas. The principle is to make the axial displacement at the defect section zero, and calculate the structural size of the clamp from the center of the local defect to both sides. A grouting clamp with adjustable length was designed and a bidirectional embedded wedge-shaped tooth block structure was built in to improve mechanical preload. By comparing damage conditions with different defect ratios, the reinforcement and repair effect of grouting clamps on locally damaged jacket was studied. The bearing capacity of the defective jacket members repaired by the clamps increased by up to 80%, indicating that the grouting clamps have strong repair ability.
Causal linkage of Graves’ disease with aging: Mendelian randomization analysis of telomere length and age-related phenotypes
Authors: Hu Jingwen , Zhang Jin , Liu Yingshu , Qin Jiahui , Bai Haixia , Qin Xiaosong 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Aging is an irreversible progressive decline in physical function. Graves' disease (GD) is a common cause of hyperthyroidism and is characterized by elevated levels of the thyroid hormone (TH). High TH levels are associated with aging and a shortened lifespan. The causal relationship between GD and aging is yet to be investigated.
Methods
We used genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets and Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal link between GD and aging. To assess the statistical power of instrumental variables (IVs), F-statistics and R2 were used. MR analysis was conducted using inverse-variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted modes. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI were calculated to estimate the relative risk of GD to the outcomes. The Cochran Q test, I2, MR-PRESSO test, and MR-Egger regression intercept were calculated using statistical and leave-one-out analyses to test the heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, and stability of the IVs on the outcomes.
Results
The F-statistic of the five IVs were greater than 10, and the R2 values ranged from 0.033 to 0.156 (R2 > 0.01). According to the results of the IVW analysis, outcomes with no statistical differences were facial aging (p = 0.189), age-related macular degeneration (p = 0.346), and Alzheimer's disease (p = 0.479). There were significant statistical differences in the remaining outcomes: telomere length (TL) (OR = 0.982; 95%CI:0.969–0.994; p = 0.004), senile cataract (OR = 1.031; 95%CI:1.002–1.060; p = 0.033), age-related hearing impairment (OR = 1.009; 95%CI:1.004–1.014; p = 0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (OR = 1.055; 95%CI:1.008–1.103; p = 0.020), and sarcopenia (OR = 1.027; 95%CI:1.009–1.046; p = 0.004).
Conclusions
GD accelerates the occurrence of age-related phenotypes including TL, senile cataracts, age-related hearing impairment, COPD, and sarcopenia. In contrast, there are no causal linkages between GD and facial aging, age-related macular degeneration, or Alzheimer's disease. Further experimental studies could be conducted to elucidate the mechanisms by which GD facilitates aging, which could help slow down the progress of aging.
Targeting IL-1 controls refractory Pityriasis rubra pilaris
Authors: Schmauch Eloi , Severin Yannik , Xing Xianying , Mangold Aaron , Conrad Curdin , Johannsen Pål , Kahlenberg Michelle , Mellett Mark , Navarini Alexander , Nobbe Stefan , Sarkar Mrinal K. , Satyam Abhigyan , Tsoi Lam C. , French Lars E. , Linna-Kuosmanen Suvi , Kaikkonen Minna U , Snijder Berend , Kellis Manolis , Gudjonsson Johann E. , Tsokos George C. , Contassot Emmanuel , Kolios Antonios G. A. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare inflammatory skin disease which lacks efficacious standard-of-care treatments. Molecular studies of skin lesions revealed that IL-1β is central to the pathogenesis of PRP. Treatment of three patients with the IL-1-targeting biologics anakinra and canakinumab resulted in rapid clinical improvement and reversal of the PRP-associated molecular signature. We identified an NF-κB-mediated IL-1β-CCL20 axis central to the inflammatory response in PRP. Our results reveal the central role of IL-1β signaling in the pathogenesis of PRP and highlights its prominence as a therapeutic target.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Angelica gluica in the Kumaon: Promising for High-Altitude Herbs Bioactive Compound Extraction.
Authors: Pandey Bharat 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) has emerged as an innovative and efficient method for extracting bioactive compounds from various botanical sources. This research paper focuses on the application of SFE to extract valuable bioactive compounds from Angelica gluica, a high-altitude Himalayan herb found in the Kumaon region. The study aims to explore the potential of SFE in obtaining medicinal compounds from Angelica gluica, highlighting its significance in pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications. The methodology includes optimization of extraction parameters such as temperature, pressure, and extraction time. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of SFE in yielding bioactive compounds from Angelica gluica and provide insights into their composition, bioactivity, and potential pharmaceutical applications. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on SFE and its role in extracting valuable compounds from high altitude Himalayan herbs, paving the way for future research and utilization of these natural resources.
Mapping the evidence about the natural history of acute infections commonly seen in primary care and managed with antibiotics: a scoping review
Authors: Boaitey Kwame Peprah , Bakhit Mina , Hoffmann Tammy 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Knowing the natural history of acute infections in primary care can inform clinicians’ and patients’ expectations about illness recovery, but this evidence is fragmented across the literature. This scoping review aimed to map and describe natural history evidence of acute infections and identify research gaps.
Methods
We searched MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL, using a hierarchical search approach, starting with identifying: i) systematic reviews synthesising natural history data for eligible conditions (acute respiratory, urinary, and skin and soft tissue infections) and ii) systematic reviews of treatment effectiveness (of RCTs with placebo or no treatment arm, or cohort studies), and iii) for conditions without reviews, primary studies (placebo-controlled RCTs or cohort studies). Two reviewers independently screened and extracted the data (study characteristics, outcome data - e.g., symptom duration, proportion with resolution at various time points).
Results
We identified 40 systematic reviews, reporting on 45 conditions, most commonly (90%) respiratory tract infections. Six (15%) of these aimed to synthesise natural history information. Most reviews reported the proportion of participants with symptom resolution at various time point/s, with 58% providing data on mean symptom duration. We found no eligible studies for cellulitis, ecthyma, carbuncle, and erysipelas.
Conclusions
Our review has shown that natural history evidence exists for many common infections. It can be utilised by clinicians in implementing patient-centred antibiotic stewardship strategies in primary care. Future research should focus on generating natural history evidence for skin and soft tissue infections and urinary tract infections.
Stochastic evolution model for international migration
Authors: Zantout Karim , Schewe Jacob 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
We present a new international migration model that combines stochastic sampling techniques with dynamic accounting of flows by means of evolution equations. Migration flows are sampled from paramaterized probability distributions based on reported migration flow data that is partitioned by socio-economic covariates. This method allows for non-trivial time evolution that goes beyond extrapolation, while requiring minimal prior knowledge about the elusive processes driving migration flows. It thus combines the advantages of different existing modeling approaches. In hindcasts our model compares well with bilateral migrant stock data in many world regions and country income groups. Moreover, we observe a significant difference between the full model and its deterministic formulation, which highlights the non-Gaussian and interdependent nature of migration flow distributions and corroborates the use of a stochastic approach. Our model can be flexibly extended with additional information, e.g. regional migration policies, which are expected to further improve the agreement with data.
Experimental analysis of carbon nanofibers reinforced epoxy adhesive bonded joints made with composite materials
Authors: Sahraei Masood , Boodaghei Hasan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Today adhesive joints with use of composite materials has many applications. Light weight, sealing capability, with high resistance to fatigue, all of the features of this unique connection that enables the designer to create a cost-effective connectivity. The aim of this project is to evaluate the adhesive strength of the one edge adhesive joints under impact and stretch loading and different thermal cycles. Epoxy (LY219, HY5161) is used as adhesive. Several studies in recent years show that adding a few percentages of Nanoparticles into the resin, can improve the mechanical and thermal properties to an acceptable level. This article examines the mechanical behavior of epoxy adhesive joints reinforced with nanoparticles of carbon nanofibers (CNFs). The amount of carbon nanofibers into the resin particles consists of 1%, 3% and 5% of the whole resin weight. Particles by hand stirring and ultrasonic devices are uniformly distributed within the resin. The composite adherend (binder) surfaces were prepared according to ASTM D2093-97. According to ASTM D3165-95, the properties of the reinforced adhesive in shear were obtained by tension loading of single lap joint specimens. Glass/polyester composite adherends are made with hand lay-up and sheet molding compound (SMC) methods. The results showed that the adhesive joints (hand lay-up and SMC) with 1% carbon nanofibers had the maximum strength in tensile loading and the highest values of Charpy impact energy, that for adherends made by hand lay-up method, this maximum value occurs in 5 and 0 thermal cycles respectively.