bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Numerical analysis of a nonlocal Volterra integro-differential equation
Authors: Zhu Yan , Dong Tiantian , Zheng Xiangcheng , Li Yiqun , Jia Sihao , Guo Xu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
We study the numerical approximation to a nonlocal Volterra integro-differential equation, in which the integral term is the convolution product of a positive-definite kernel and a nonlocal peridynamic differential operator. Compared with the classical differential operators, the nonlocal peridynamic differential operators describe, e.g., discontinuities, and have domonstrated more widespread applications. The equation is discretized in space by the Galerkin finite element method, and we accordingly prove its error estimate.
We then discretize the equation in time by the backward Euler method, and a positive quadrature rule is combined to approximate the convolution term. The convergence rate of the fully-discrete finite element scheme is proved, and numerical experiments are carried out to substantiate the theoretical findings.
Epidemiology and genetic characteristics of the lumpy skin disease virus in Yunnan province, China from 2019 to 2023
Authors: Yao Jun , Lin Gao , Zhu Pei , Xie Jiarui , Li Xue , Yan Rui , Yu Taoyin , Xia Fengyi , Chen Qiyun , Zeng Bangquan , Yang Jiaping 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is caused by the lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) and has emerged as a significant threat to the cattle and water buffalo industries in China. Investigating the epidemiological characteristics of LSDV will be beneficial to the control and prevention of this disease. In this study, a Taqman-Probe-Based real-time PCR (qPCR) assay was developed for detecting LSDV nucleotides, 2495 tissue or blood samples were collected from Yunnan province and tested using the established qPCR assay. The GPCR and p32 genes of the LSDV-positive samples were amplified, sequenced, and analyzed. Additionally, an infectious LSDV strain was isolated from one positive sample, and its biological characteristics were explored.
Results
The established qPCR assay demonstrated high sensitivity with a limit of detection of 4.83 copies/µL. Out of the 2495 collected specimens, six (0.24%) samples were positive for LSDV nucleotides, and all positive samples belonged to the skin scab samples. Molecular and phylogenetic analysis based on the P32 and GPCR genes revealed that six LSDV strains were genetically similar to field LSDV strains from China, Russia, and Thailand. One LSDV strain was isolated and replicated well in PST cells, while which was not sensitive to the MDBK cells.
Conclusions
This study provides the first report on the epidemiological characteristics of LSDV in Yunnan province of China, which confirmed the prevalence of LSDV in Cattle in this province. These findings will contribute to the development of effective strategies for the prevention and control of LSDV.
Variations in the light interception and associated physiological traits of cowpea and fodder sorghum grown under different Agroforestry system
Authors: Ramah K. , Hemalatha P. , Radha P. , Tilak M. , Boominathan P. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Light interception is major factor for characterizing the resource capture and use efficiency of cropping systems under intercrops. Agroforestry system is land use practices that combine agricultural crops and trees in different ways and has shown to benefits agriculture and forestry. The choice crop in agroforestry depends on light availability penetrated through trees which would alter the physiological processes inturn to yield. The experiment was conducted out with cowpea followed by fodder sorghum as intercrops under four agroforestry systems viz., Khaya senegalenesis, Melia dubia, Dalbergia sissoo and Casuarina equisetifolia and measured the light interception, gas exchange parameters and yield traits. Light interception ratio of cowpea under Dalbergia sissoo were observed maximum with 76 % and minimum of 58 % in Khaya senegalenesis @ 60 days after sowing. In case of gas exchange parameters, photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance of cowpea and fodder sorghum were found significantly higher under Dalbergia sissoo compared to other agroforestry systems. The yield traits for cowpea and fodder sorghum were recorded higher in open space followed by Dalbergia sissoo while lower yield was noticed in cowpea under Khaya senegalenesis and Casuarina equisetifolia in case of fodder sorghum. The yield reductions in cowpea and fodder sorghum under Dalbergia sissoo were 19 % and 31% compared to open conditions indicating the differential response of C3 and C4 crops towards intercepted light. Microclimatic variables mainly altered due to influence of canopy structure that was reflected in reduction in temperature especially under Khaya senegalenesis. In conclusion, cowpea was found to be better intercrop mainly under Melia dubia based on gas exchange and yield parameters.
Tac1-expressing neurons in the central amygdala predominantly mediate histamine-induced itch by receiving inputs from parabrachial Tac1-expressing neurons
Authors: Zhang Ying-Ning , Shi Su-Juan , Mao E , Wang Xi , Zhou Yi-Hang , Chen Yu-Ling , Chen Jing , Tian Miao , Huang Fen-Sheng , Cai Zhi-Ping , Li Yun-Qing , Kou Zhen-Zhen 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Itch is a distinct and bothersome sensation closely associated with a strong urge to scratch. Both the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) and the central amygdala (CeA) are responsive to itch stimuli and contain neurons that express tachykinin 1 (Tac1), which are known for their significant involvement in itch-induced scratching at both spinal and supraspinal levels. Significantly, the PBN neurons project their axons to form close connections with the CeA neurons. However, the role of the PBNTac1-CeATac1 pathway in modulating itch remains to be determined. We utilized immunohistochemistry, fiber photometry, chemogenetic, and behavioral techniques to investigate the role of the PBNTac1-CeATac1 pathway in itch. Our results indicate that neurons in the CeA can be more activated by acute itch than chronic itch. Notably, in response to acute itch stimuli, both CeATac1 and PBNTac1 neurons are specifically activated by histamine (His)-induced itch. Furthermore, the Tac1-positive terminals from the PBNTac1 neurons formed close connections with CeATac1 neurons. We also demonstrated that activating the PBN-CeA pathway using a chemogenetic approach could increase scratching behaviors in His-induced itch, other than chloroquine (CQ)-induced itch. Conversely, inhibiting the PBN-CeA pathway decreased scratching behaviors in mice with His-induced itch. Taken together, these results suggest that the PBNTac1-CeATac1 pathway may play a specific role in modulating His-induced acute itch.
Minimizing Unaccounted-for Water (UFW)
Authors: Ahmed Zakaria 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
"Unaccounted for water", refers to the portion of water produced by a water utility system that is lost or untraceable within the distribution network before reaching consumers. The main objective of this paper is to explore ways to mitigate the occurrence of unaccounted for water usage in drinking water. This will be achieved through a methodical, multi-stage process that encompasses the implementation of measures such as leak detection, water flow measurement, meter repairs, prevention of clandestine connections, and enhancement of collection and billing processes. This study has devised a methodology with the goal of assisting utilities in lowering Unaccounted-for Water (UFW) rates. This method is a systematic, multi-step approach that encompasses activities such as monitoring water flow, deploying leak detection measures, installing, and fixing meters, curtailing unauthorized connections, and streamlining billing and collections processes. The initiation phase involves choosing a pilot area, examining similar initiatives, conducting on-site visits, arranging meetings, establishing a timeline, creating and implementing base maps and water network plans, evaluating and comparing end-line results, and reporting findings. It is anticipated that a significant reduction in the percentage of Unaccounted-for Water will be achieved through the identification and correction of leaks.
RETRACTED: Gastrointestinal parasite fauna infection in crossbreed Karakul sheep and crossbreed Pashmina goats of cold arid region Kargil Ladakh, India.
Authors: HUSSAIN SHABBIR , Islam Aqleemul , Ahmad Fayaz , Jaiswal Kamal , Mishra Suman 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The Distribution of US Adult Mental Health Patients Across Provider Groups
Authors: Gao Yihe , Olfson Mark 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objective To describe the distribution of US adult mental health outpatients across provider groups. Methods We examined a nationally representative sample of US adults from the 2018–2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys. We classified psychological distress using the Kessler-6, and by acute mental healthcare episode (inpatient or emergency department) in the survey year. We report outpatient mental health use rates, visit share by provider group (counselors, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners/physician associates, primary care physicians, other physicians, and other) and by service sector including mental health, medical, both, or neither. Results Of adults with ≥ 1 outpatient mental health visit, 58.2% (95%CI 56.4–60.0%) received mental health visits in the mental health sector alone, 24.3% (95%CI 22.8–25.7%) were seen in the medical sector alone, and 15.2% (95%CI 14.1-16.25%) were seen in both. The largest differences in mental health care were seen for patients who had recent acute mental healthcare episodes who were more likely to receive care in both medical and mental health sectors, 35.5% (95%CI 29.1–41.9) versus 14.5% (95%CI 13.4–15.5%) among those who did not have acute mental healthcare episodes. Of the 8 provider groups, only psychiatrists were more likely to have seen patients with higher than lower levels of distress. Conclusion Adult mental health patients with episodes of acute mental healthcare were more likely than those without to have received mental health visits in both mental health and medical sectors. Among the provider groups, only psychiatrists saw a greater share of patients with higher than lower levels of psychological distress.
Modeling of a more Compact and Efficient Hybrid Plasmonic Electro-Optic Modulator using 3D finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) algorithm
Authors: Elbialy Samar , Raslan Walid , El-den B. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The development of Hybrid Plasmonic Electro-Optic Broad-Band Modulators with substantial modulation depth, compact design, and low power consumption has garnered significant attention not only from the scientific community but also from the industrial sector. These devices hold the potential to revolutionize on-chip optical interconnects. This paper demonstrates an ultra-compact and ultra-fast hybrid plasmonic EO modulator based on a monolayer of an active material called ITO. By electrically tuning the refractive index of ITO through an external electrical signal with a low operation voltage ranging from 0 to 4 volts, the device achieves a high modulation depth of ≈ 38% (transmission at ON state is ≈ 71.7%, while transmission at OFF state is ≈ 1.89%) and low energy consumption of (11.384–22.7) fJ/bit. Additionally, it features a compact footprint of 11 µm² at the telecommunication wavelength (1550 nm). These combined advantages, spanning a broad range of wavelengths, have the potential to enable novel architectures for on-chip optical communications.
Robotic Repair of Moderate-sized Midline Ventral Hernias Reduced Complications, Readmissions, and Length of Hospitalization Compared to Open Techniques
Authors: Carter Jonathan , Ahamed Fayyaz , Juprasert Jackly , Anderson Mark , Lin Matthew , Lebares Carter , Soriano Ian 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To compare outcomes of robotic and open repair for uncomplicated, moderate-sized, midline ventral hernias.
Methods
From 2017–2021, patient characteristics and 30-day outcomes for all ventral hernias at our center were prospectively collected. We studied hernias potentially suitable for robotic repair: elective, midline, 3–10 cm rectus separation, no prior mesh, and no need for concomitant procedure. Robotic or open repair was performed by surgeon or patient preference. The primary outcome was any complication using Clavien-Dindo scoring. Secondary outcomes were operative time, length-of-stay, and readmissions. Regression identified predictors of complications.
Results
Of 648 hernias repaired, 70 robotic and 52 open repairs met inclusion criteria. The groups had similar patient demographics, co-morbidities, and hernia size, except that there were more immunosuppressed patients in the open group (11 versus 5 patients, p = 0.031). Complications occurred after 7 (13%) open repairs versus 2 (3%) robotic repairs, p = 0.036. Surgical site infection occurred after 4 open repairs but no robotic repair, p = 0.004. Length-of-stay averaged almost three days longer after open repair (4.3 ± 2.7 days versus 1.5 ± 1.4 days, p = 0.031). Readmission occurred after 6 (12%) open repairs but only 1 (1%) robotic repair. A long-term survey (61% response rate after mean follow-up of 2.8 years) showed that the HerQLes QOL score was better after robotic repair (46 ± 15 versus 40 ± 17, p = 0.049). In regression models, only open technique predicted complications.
Conclusions
Robotic techniques were associated with fewer complications, shorter hospitalization, fewer infections, and fewer readmissions compared to open techniques. Open surgical technique was the only predictor of complications.
Comprehensive analysis of prognostic value and immunological implication of YKT6 in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Liming , Wang Shaoqiang , Wang Lina 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The most prevalent histological subtype of lung cancer is lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), with incidence rising each year. YKT6 is a member of the SNARE protein family, whose clinical value and biological function in LUAD is unknown.
Methods
TCGA, HPA and UALCAN were used to analyze YKT6 mRNA and protein levels, the correlation between YKT6 expression and clinicopathological features and prognosis. The cBioPortal was used to select YKT6-related genes. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was drawn based on STRING database and hub genes were screened, with expression levels and prognosis values in LUAD were analyzed. YKT6-related genes were enriched by gene ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Immune infiltration was conducted by TCGA and TIMER databases. YKT6 mRNA and protein expression were verified by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and tissue microarrays (TMA). Additionally, A549 and Calu-1 cell lines were chosen for YKT6 silencing to explore the effects on cell proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).
Results
YKT6 is highly conserved among species from yeast to human. In LUAD, YKT6 was highly expressed with relation to clinical features of staging, smoking, lymph node metastasis, and TP53 mutation. Elevated YKT6 expression was linked to adverse prognosis. PPI network screened out top ten genes were highly expressed in LUAD, and significantly associated with LUAD prognosis. GO and KEGG analysis showed that YKT6-related genes were mainly involved in cell cycle. GSEA demonstrated that YKT6 mainly involve in DNA replication, DNA chain extension, PLK1, ATR pathways. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that YKT6 correlated with immune cell infiltration. The freshly collected LUAD tissues showed significantly high mRNA expression of YKT6. IHC and TMA verified increased YKT6 protein level in LUAD. Knockdown of YKT6 inhibited LUAD cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. The capability of LUAD cell migration and invasion was mitigated by YKT6 silencing.
Conclusion
Elevated YKT6 expression is related to poor prognosis of LUAD patients. YKT6 can serve as a novel biomarker for LUAD diagnosis and prognosis. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion was impaired with increased apoptosis upon YKT6 silencing in LUAD cells.
Metabolites and MRI-Derived Markers of AD/ADRD Risk in a Puerto Rican Cohort
Authors: Gordon Scott , Lee Jong Soo , Scott Tammy M. , Bhupathiraju Shilpa , Ordovas Jose , Kelly Rachel S. , Bhadelia Rafeeque , Koo Bang-Bon , Bigornia Sherman , Tucker Katherine L. , Palacios Natalia 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective
Several studies have examined metabolomic profiles in relation to Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (AD/ADRD) risk; however, few studies have focused on minorities, such as Latinos, or examined Magnetic-Resonance Imaging (MRI)-based outcomes.
Methods
We used multiple linear regression, adjusted for covariates, to examine the association between metabolite concentration and MRI-derived brain age deviation. Metabolites were measured at baseline with untargeted metabolomic profiling (Metabolon, Inc). Brain age deviation (BAD) was calculated at wave 4 (~ 9 years from Boston Puerto Rican Health Study (BPRHS) baseline) as chronologic age, minus MRI-estimated brain age, representing the rate of biological brain aging relative to chronologic age. We also examined if metabolites associated with BAD were similarly associated with hippocampal volume and global cognitive function at wave 4 in the BPRHS.
Results
Several metabolites, including isobutyrylcarnitine, propionylcarnitine, phenylacetylglutamine, phenylacetylcarnitine (acetylated peptides), p-cresol-glucuronide, phenylacetylglutamate, and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) were inversely associated with brain age deviation. Taurocholate sulfate, a bile salt, was marginally associated with better brain aging. Most metabolites with negative associations with brain age deviation scores also were inversely associations with hippocampal volumes and wave 4 cognitive function.
Conclusion
The metabolites identified in this study are generally consistent with prior literature and highlight the role of BCAA, TMAO and microbially derived metabolites in cognitive decline.
Genipin as the Active Compound of Gardenia fruits Inhibit Proliferation, Migration and Autophagy of Prostate Cancer through PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Dai PeiRu , Chen Yan , Wei YinYin , Yin WeiHua , Chen ChunLin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose:Prostate cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer type and the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in men. Genipin is a protein cross-linking agent extracted from Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides Ellis) fruits, which has been reported to exhibit antitumor activity against several types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antitumor effect of Genipin on prostate cancer and the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:CCK-8 assays were performed to determine the cell viability of genipin prostate cancer cells lines (DU145, PC-3, RM-1) and normal prostate cell lines (WPMY1). Colony formation assays, and wound-healing assays used to detect the effect of genipin on DU145, PC-3 and RM-1 cell lines. Immunofluorescence and western blotting were carried out to investigate its mechanism.Results:Genipin inhibited the survival of DU-145, PC-3 and RM-1 cells in a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner. And Genipin induced apoptosis of prostate carcinoma cells, including DU-145, PC-3 and RM-1 cells. Moreover, the expression of p62 in DU-145 and PC-3 cells was down-regulated, whereas Beclin1 and LC3II/ I were up-regulated. In addition, genipin also decreased p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-NF-\(\kappa\)B and p-mTOR.Conclusion:Genipin is the active compound to inhibit proliferation and migration of prostate cancer through PI3K/AKT/NF-\(\kappa\)B signaling pathway and promoted prostate cancer cells autophagy through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, indicating that Genipin may serve as a potential lead drug for prostate cancer treatment. Therefore, Genipin may be used as a novel therapeutic agent in the treatment of prostate cancer.
Antarctica Storytelling: Creating Interactive Story Maps for Polar Regions with Graphic-Based Approach
Authors: Wang Liangwei , Wang Zhan , Zhao Xi , Tsung Fugee , Zeng Wei 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Although story maps have gained popularity for storytelling related to spatial information, existing story maps authoring tools often fall short in delivering diverse narrative forms and struggle to accurately render polar regions due to the limitations of tile-based mapping. In this work, we introduce a graphic-based method to address these challenges, developing a framework specifically designed for creating story maps for polar regions.Our key contribution lies in offering heuristic strategies for story map design, emphasizing their role in effectively visualizing and disseminating polar culture.This paper outlines essential design tasks for story map creation and introduces three pivotal narrative strategies: attention cue, linkage of map with other visual elements, and cartographic interaction. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of storyboard design, focusing on aspects such as logical sequencing, temporal order, map scale and granularity, and interactive design.To validate the effectiveness of our story map design framework, we develop several story map cases centered around the exploration history of Antarctica.These examples highlight the diversity and interactivity in the story maps produced through our methodology. Finally, we explore the challenges and limitations encountered in the process of creating story maps, and from these observations, we identify prospective areas for further research.
Role of Low-pressure Negative Pleural Suction in Patients With Thoracic Trauma - a Randomized Controlled Trial.
Authors: Priyadarshi Amit , Gupta Sahil , Priyadarshini Pratyusha , Kumar Abhinav , Alam Junaid , Bagaria Dinesh , Chaudhary Narendra , Sagar Sushma , Gupta Amit , Mishra Biplab , Pandey Shivam , Kumar Subodh 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background: Thoracic trauma frequently includes a pneumothorax, hemothorax, or hemopneumothorax, which may necessitate an Intercostal drainage (ICD) for air and fluid evacuation to improve breathing and circulatory function. It is a simple and life-saving procedure; nevertheless, it carries morbidity, even after its removal. Efforts have been made continuously to shorten the duration of ICD, but mostly in non-trauma patients. In this study, we evaluated the impact of negative pleural suction over the duration of ICD.
Methods: This study was a prospective randomized controlled interventional trial conducted at Level 1 Trauma Centre. Thoracic trauma patients with ICD, who met the inclusion criteria (sample size 70) were randomized into two groups, the first group with negative pleural suction up to -20 cm H2O, and the second group as conventional, i.e. ICD connected to underwater seal container only. The primary objective was to compare the duration of ICDs and the secondary objectives were the length of hospital stay and various complications of thoracic trauma.
Results: Duration of ICD was measured in median days with minimum & maximum days. For the negative suction group, it was 4 days (2-16 days); for the conventional group, it was also 4 days (2-17 days). There was also no significant difference among both groups in length of hospital stay.
Conclusion: The beneficial effect of negative pleural suction to ICD could not be demonstrated over the duration of ICD and hospital stay. In both groups, there was no significant difference in complication rates like recurrent pneumothorax, retained hemothorax, persistent air leak, and empyema.
Level of evidence: Therapeutic Study, Level II