bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of nonsynonymous SNPs in candidate genes that influence bovine temperament and evaluation of their effect in Brahman cattle
Authors: Ruiz-De-La-Cruz Gilberto , Sifuentes-Rincón Ana María , Paredes-Sánchez Francisco Alejandro , Parra-Bracamonte Gaspar Manuel , Casas Eduardo , Riley David G. , Perry George A. , Welsh Thomas H. , Randel Ronald D. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Temperament is an important production trait in cattle and multiple strategies had been developed to generate molecular markers to assist animal selection. As nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms are markers with the potential to affect gene functions, they could be useful to predict phenotypic effects. Genetic selection of less stress-responsive, temperamental animals is desirable from an economic and welfare point of view.

Methods and results
Two nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms identified in HTR1B and SLC18A2 candidate genes for temperament were analyzed in silico to determine their effects on protein structure. Those nsSNPs allowing changes in proteins were selected for a temperament association analysis in a Brahman population. Transversion effects on protein structure were evaluated in silico for each amino acid change model, revealing structural changes in the proteins of the HTR1B and SLC18A2 genes. The selected nsSNPs were genotyped in a Brahman population (n = 138), and their genotypic effects on three temperament traits were analyzed: exit velocity, pen score, and temperament score. Only the SNP rs209984404-HTR1B (C/A) showed a significant association (P = 0.0144) with pen score. The heterozygous genotype showed a pen score value 1.17 points lower than that of the homozygous CC genotype.

Conclusion
The results showed that in silico analysis could direct the selection of nsSNPs with the potential to change the protein. Non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms causing structural changes and reduced protein stability were identified. Only rs209984404-HTR1B shows that the allele affecting protein stability was associated with the genotype linked to docility in cattle.
Converging survival trends in non-small cell lung cancer patients with and without brain metastasis receiving state-of-the-art treatment
Authors: Averbuch Itamar , Tschernichovsky Roi , Yust-Katz Shlomit , Rotem Ofer , Limon Dror , Kurman Noga , Icht Oded , Reinhorn Daniel , Moskovitz Mor , Hanovich Ekaterina , Benouaich-Amiel Alexandra , Siegal Tali , Zer Alona , Gal Omer 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Historically, patients with brain metastasis (BM) have been excluded from clinical trials investigating treatments for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) due to their unfavorable prognosis. Advanced treatments have increased survival prospects for NSCLC patients with BM. This study evaluated the life expectancy of NSCLC patients with and without BM in the context of contemporary treatments.

Methods
Outcome data were collected for patients with advanced NSCLC attending a tertiary medical center between 2015 and 2020. Patients were stratified according to BM status and compared for overall survival (OS) using log-rank and Cox regression analyses.

Results
The cohort included 360 patients with NSCLC of whom 134 (37.2%) had BM. Most (95%) of cases of BM developed within the first two years: 63% at diagnosis, 18% during the first year, 14% during the second year. There was no significant difference in OS between patients without BM and those with BM (median 23.7 vs. 22.3 months, HR = 0.97, p = 0.82); patients with BM and a targetable or non-targetable mutation (40.2 vs. 31.4 months, HR = 0.93, p = 0.84, and 20.7 vs. 19.87 months, HR = 0.95, p = 0.75, respectively); and patients with symptomatic BM (23.7 vs. 19.8 months, HR = 0.95, p = 0.78). Treatment for BM (95% of patients) consisted of stereotactic radiosurgery or tyrosine kinase inhibitors, with corresponding intracranial control rates of 90% and 86%.

Conclusion
The results imply that the presence of BM has no impact on the prognosis of NSCLC. The practice of excluding NSCLC patients with BM from clinical trials warrants reconsideration.
DCLGM: Fusion Recommendation Model Based on LightGBM and Deep Learning
Authors: Zhao Bin , Li Bin , Zhang Jiqun , Cao Wei , Gao Yilong 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe recommendation system can mine valuable information according to user preferences, so it is widely used in various industries. However, the performance of recommendation systems is generally affected by the problem of data sparsity, and LightGBM can alleviate the impact caused by data sparsity to a certain extent. To this end, this paper proposes a fusion recommendation model based on the LightGBM and deep learning—CLGM model. The model is composed of LighGBM, cross network and deep neural network. First, the features in the dataset are fused and extracted through LightGBM, and the feature with the highest classification accuracy is selected as the input of the neural network layer; Then, using the cross network and the deep neural network, the linear cross combination feature relationship and nonlinear correlation relationship between high-order features are respectively obtained; finally, the results obtained by the pre-order network are linearly weighted and combined to obtain the final recommendation result. In this paper, AUC and Logloss are used as evaluation indicators to verify the model on the public dataset Criteo and dataset Avazu. The simulation experiment results show that, compared with the four typical recommendation models, the recommendation effect of this model is better.
Projective Synchronization of Inertial Quaternion-Valued Neural Networks via Non-reduced Order Approach
Authors: Huang Qun , Yu Yue , Cao Jinde 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn this article, the issue on projective synchronization of delayed inertial quaternion-valued neural networks (IQVNNs) is investigated. Different from most existing literature, we adopt the non-reduced order approach to deal with IQVNNs described by second order differential equations. By introducing a novel Lyapunov functional, several sufficient criteria are presented in component form to ensure the projective synchronization between master–slave systems. A numerical experiment demonstrates the feasibility of control strategy as well as the correctness of theoretical results.
A reliable data-based smoothing parameter selection method for circular kernel estimation
Authors: Ameijeiras-Alonso Jose 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA new data-based smoothing parameter for circular kernel density (and its derivatives) estimation is proposed. Following the plug-in ideas, unknown quantities on an optimal smoothing parameter are replaced by suitable estimates. This paper provides a circular version of the well-known Sheather and Jones bandwidths (J R Stat Soc Ser B Stat Methodol 53(3):683–690, 1991. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2517-6161.1991.tb01857.x), with direct and solve-the-equation plug-in rules. Theoretical support for our developments, related to the asymptotic mean squared error of the estimator of the density, its derivatives, and its functionals, for circular data, are provided. The proposed selectors are compared with previous data-based smoothing parameters for circular kernel density estimation. This paper also contributes to the study of the optimal kernel for circular data. An illustration of the proposed plug-in rules is also shown using real data on the time of car accidents.
Unique Identification of Stiffness Parameters in Hyperelastic Models for Anisotropic, Deformable, Thin Materials Based on a Single Experiment - A Feasibility Study Based on Virtual Full-Field Data
Authors: Makhool L. , Balzani D. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Characterizing material properties of thin sheets for design or manufacturing purposes is an essential concern in many engineering applications. This task is particularly challenging for materials with a pronounced anisotropic and nonlinear mechanical behavior.

Objective
A hybrid, experimental-numerical approach for the characterization of the mechanical, nonlinear response of thin, anisotropic, deformable materials is proposed. In contrast to classical approaches where various biaxial tension tests are analyzed, the main goal here is the complete characterization based on one single experiment.

Methods
The proposed approach is based on a novel non-standard experimental setup which is on the one hand easy to install and use, and which on the other hand intentionally induces a strongly inhomogeneous strain field in the specimen capturing as many deformation modes and intensities as possible. The resulting displacement field can be measured using e.g., digital image correlation, and is then accessible to the parameter identification as full-field data. To allow for an efficient identification, an extended equilibrium gap method is presented, where unknown boundary force distributions applied in the experiment are computed iteratively. The approach’s feasibility is assessed through virtual full-field data obtained by numerical simulation of the proposed experimental setup using predefined parameter values and applying realistic noise. That way, a quantitative assessment of the method’s performance regarding two specifically chosen material models is enabled.

Results
Provided that the stiffness-related material parameters are indeed linear in the stress equations, a quadratic optimization problem can be constructed to allow for a unique identification of the parameter values. Analysis show that reference parameter values for calendered rubber as well as coated textile fabric can be identified, even when realistic noise is applied to the virtual test data.

Conclusion
Based on the presented investigations, the proposed method has been found to be feasible for the accurate identification of stiffness-related parameters of anisotropic, nonlinear thin sheets using a single experiment.
Spent coffee grounds as a suitable alternative to standard soil in ecotoxicological tests
Authors: Mendes Luís André , Domínguez Jorge 
Published: February 2024

AbstractEisenia andrei is considered in OECD and ISO guidelines to be a suitable replacement for Eisenia fetida in ecotoxicological assays. This suggests that other alternative materials and methods could also be used in standard procedures for toxicity testing. The guidelines also favor using less time-consuming procedures and reducing costs and other limitations to ecotoxicological assessments. In recent years, spent coffee grounds (SCG) have been used to produce vermicompost and biochar and as an additive to organic fertilizers. In addition, the physicochemical characteristics of SCG indicate that the material is a suitable substrate for earthworms, with the organisms performing as well as in natural soil. In the present study, a battery of ecotoxicological tests was established with unwashed and washed SCG and a natural reference soil (LUFA 2.2). The test substrates were spiked with different concentrations of silver nitrate. Survival and reproduction of the earthworm E. andrei were assessed under different conditions, along with substrate basal respiration (SBR) as a proxy for microbial activity. Seedling emergence and the germination index of Lepidium sativum were also determined, following standard guidelines. Exposure to silver nitrate had similar effects on earthworm survival and reproduction, as the estimated effective concentrations (EC10 and EC50) in unwashed SCG and LUFA 2.2 overlapped. A hormetic effect was observed for SBR in LUFA 2.2 spiked with 12.8 mg/kg but not in unwashed SCG. Both SBR and root development were inhibited by similar concentrations of silver nitrate in washed SCG. The findings indicate that unwashed SCG could potentially be used as a substrate in E. andrei toxicity tests and support the eventual inclusion of this material in the standard guidelines.
Harmfulness and Wrongfulness in Sex-by-Deception
Authors: Tolley Rachel C. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn Criminalizing Sex, Stuart Green wisely eschews any attempt to fully analyse the problem of ‘sex-by-deception’ in a single chapter, instead offering a ‘basic framework’ for determining whether an expansion of the law of ‘rape by deceit’ might be justified. In this article, I offer a revision to that framework. Green begins from an account of rape centred on the right to (negative) sexual autonomy and seeks to reject an expansionist account under which any deceptions and mistakes could vitiate consent to sexual activity. Sharing these starting points, I argue, pace Green, that variations in the harmfulness and wrongfulness of different deceptions cannot ground content-based restrictions on consent-vitiating deceptions. I argue that whilst different kinds of deceptive practices might wrong V to a greater or lesser extent, these variations lead to content-neutral, form-based restrictions on consent-vitiating deceptions. Moreover, whilst variations in the harms of D’s conduct are unlikely to ground a coherent set of content-sensitive restrictions on consent-vitiating deceptions, the harms of criminalisation differ depending on the content of the deception in question and this might lead to content-based restrictions on liability. However, an analysis of the variable costs of criminalisation is not obviously connected to the moral concept of consent-validity. Accordingly, whilst I suspect that both form and content-based restrictions on consent-vitiating deceptions are warranted in this area, the justification for the latter is unlikely to lie within an analysis of consent-validity itself, or the varied harmfulness and wrongfulness of D’s own conduct.
An online clinical decision tool to screen for vertebral fragility fractures (Vfrac) in older women presenting with back pain in general practice: protocol for a feasibility study in preparation for a future cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Khalid Tanzeela Y. , Peters Tim J. , Pocock Lucy V. , Drew Sarah , Hardcastle Sarah A. , Paskins Zoe , Davis Sarah , Kariki Eleni P. , Clark Emma M. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Summary
This feasibility study for a future definitive randomized trial assesses the use and acceptability of a new clinical decision tool to identify risk of a vertebral fracture and those who should be referred for spinal radiography in women aged 65 or over presenting to primary care with back pain.

Purpose
Approximately 12% of older adults have vertebral fragility fractures, but currently fewer than one-third are diagnosed, potentially limiting access to bone protection treatment. Vfrac is a vertebral fracture screening tool which classifies individuals into high or low risk of having a vertebral fracture, allowing targeting of spinal radiographs to high-risk individuals. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of conducting a cluster randomized controlled trial to evaluate the use of an online version of Vfrac in primary care.

Methods
The study will run in six general practices, with three given the Vfrac tool for use on older women (> 65 years) consulting with back pain and three using standard clinical processes for managing such back pain. Anonymised data covering a 12-month period will be collected from all sites on consultations by older women with back pain. Focus groups will be undertaken with healthcare professionals and patients on whom the tool was used to understand the acceptability of Vfrac and identify factors that impact its use. These patients will be sent a paper version of the Vfrac questionnaire to self-complete at home. Outputs of the self-completion Vfrac (high versus low risk) will be compared with the face-to-face Vfrac (high versus low risk), and agreement assessed using Cohen’s kappa.

Results
This study will evaluate the use and acceptability of Vfrac within primary care and determine if data on resource use can be collected accurately and comprehensively.

Conclusions
This article describes the protocol of the Vfrac feasibility study.

Trial registration
ISRCTN18000119 (registered 01/03/2022) and ISRCTN12150779 (registered 10/01/2022).
Two Sides of a Coin: Digital Economy and the Supply of Basic Public Services
Authors: Tian Jinfang , Wang Yunjing , Sun Siyang 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
With the development of a new generation of IT, digital economy bears a far-reaching impact on governmental behavior and effect of governing. There are two main research purposes of this paper: First, it aims to study the relationship between the digital economy and the supply of basic public services. The second purpose is to clarify the transmission mechanism through which the digital economy affects the supply of basic public services. This paper gives an examination of the association of digital economy with the supply of basic public services based on the panel data collected from 287 prefecture-level cities across China from 2011 to 2021 and by utilizing bidirectional fixed effect model. The study delivers findings as follows: There is an inverted “U”-shaped relationship between digital economy and the supply of basic public services and most of the cities situate at the left-hand side of the inflection point. Market enabling and financial enabling serve as the transmission channel through which digital economy affects the supply of basic public services. In non-central cities and areas where energy consumption is high, development of digital economy and the supply of basic public services remain effective in promotion in the first place and inhibition afterwards. A further study shows that there is a non-linear relationship, namely, digital economy plays a role in promoting in the first place and inhibiting afterwards in basic public services such as employment services, social security, and health care. The study’s findings stated hereinafter serve as a reference as to precise formulation of basic public services in the digital and intelligent era, as well as facilitating with sustainable growth.
Comparing stapler and sutured mesh fixation techniques for laparoscopic TAPP repair: a study on chronic groin pain on 3-year follow-up
Authors: Elhadidi Amro , Negm Ahmed , Shouma Ashraf 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTrans-abdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repairs are the available surgeries for inguinal hernias, with both methods of laparoscopic repairs requiring mesh applications. This study analyzes the correlation between sutured versus stapler mesh fixation in a laparoscopic TAPP for unilateral groin hernia regarding chronic pain during 3-year follow-up. A total of 130 patients with laparoscopic hernia undergoing TAPP repair were randomized into 2 groups based on their fixation technique—one with sutures and the other with stapler. Postoperative complications and chronic groin pain were noted for each technique. Equal number of participants was present in the stapler and suture groups, with the majority having an ASA score of one. The mean age was 42.50 ± 13.86 years, and the body mass index (BMI) was 27.47 ± 5.88. The stapler group presented a shorter mean operative time than the suture group. However, the stapler group had a significantly higher mean VAS score than the suture group. Most participants in the suture group (89.2%) had LOS for 1 day, while a 2-day LOS was significantly higher in the stapler group (12.3%) than in the suture group (9.2%). No patient reported mesh erosion, conversion, recurrence, testicular atrophy, and mesh infection. Early postoperative pain was more in stapler group along with long hospital stay, but both were non-significant. Chronic postoperative pain results and recurrence incidences over 3-year follow-up were also similar. Re-admission rates were minimal, no significant complications occurred.
Acetyl-cholinesterase-inhibitors reconsidered. A narrative review of post-marketing studies on Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Zuliani Giovanni , Zuin Marco , Romagnoli Tommaso , Polastri Michele , Cervellati Carlo , Brombo Gloria 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe real efficacy of Acetyl-cholinesterase-inhibitors (AChEI) has been questioned. In this narrative review we evaluated their effect on cognitive decline, measured by Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and on total mortality rates in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) recruited into post-marketing open/non-randomized/retrospective studies. In AD patients treated with AChEI, the mean MMSE loss ranged from 0.2 to 1.37 points/years, compared with 1.07–3.4 points/years in non-treated patients. Six studies also reported data about survival; a reduction in total mortality relative risk between 27% and 42% was observed, over a period of 2–8 years. The type of studies and the use of MMSE to assess cognitive decline, may have introduced several biases. However, the clinical effects of AChEI seem to be of the same order of magnitude as the drugs currently used in most common chronic disorders, as regards progression of the disease and total mortality. In the absence of long-term randomized trials on “standard” unselected AD outpatients, open/retrospective studies and health databases represent the best available evidence on the possible effect of AChEI in the real-word setting. Our data support the clinical benefit of AChEI in older patients affected by AD.
Multiphase simulations of nonlinear fluids with SPH
Authors: Monge-Gapper Juan Gabriel , Calderon-Sanchez Javier , Serrano-Pacheco Alberto 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA modified apparent viscosity approach has been implemented for a weakly compressible SPH scheme for two-phase flows where a nonlinear phase must yield under erosive dynamics but also maintain a pseudosolid behaviour under the right conditions. The final purpose is to provide a means to model both dam-break dynamics and erosive interactions between different phases simultaneously while also keeping smooth pressure fields in spite of discontinuities introduced by viscosity variations of a nonlinear phase along with significant differences in mean density. Key contributions include purposeful avoidance of nonphysical elastic behaviour and the integration of a specific particle shifting technique that allows for proper replication of erosion and scouring. In this work, the method is validated by applying it to model a silted-up dam that collapses over a static water bed, effectively including all main elements of interest. Although the formulation is inherently three dimensional, validation is done by direct comparison with data from physical experiments of a dominant two-dimensional nature, assuming variable yield stress of medium-grain quartz sand according to the Drucker–Prager equation. Overall results show most of the expected interface dynamics, such as erosion and transportation of the nonlinear phase, sustained piling of the non-yielded volume of silt, and good correspondence of both granular and water surface position with experimental data. Finally, a series of modelling assumptions and implications for future developments are explicitly stated because of their direct impact on stability and versatility for multiphase, nonlinear flows in general.