bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Copper, lead and cadmium monitoring via the Small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula; Linnaeus, 1758): space-time driven variability in Western Mediterranean populations
Authors: Molera Alejandro J. , Hernández-Martínez Ana Ma , March Jose Rafael García , Medialdea Jose Tena 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The philopatric and sedentary nature of female Scyliorhinus canicula, its high abundance as a bycatch and resilience to regular exploitation by bottom trawl fisheries and its widespread distribution, make it a potentially good candidate as a biomonitor species. To evaluate this potential, Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) were used to analyse Pb, Cd and Cu in muscle tissue of individuals captured in the Western Mediterranean (Alicante, Spain). A monthly assessment of the concentration of these three analytes was conducted from November 2019 to November 2020 with 300 individuals. Results showed the existence of slightly higher mean concentrations during warmer seasons for Pb and Cd with mean concentrations for Pb and Cu peaking in Autumn 2019 and during Spring 2020 in the case of Cd. Significant differences in analyte concentrations found between non-consecutive months suggested gradual variability in time. Although space-wise, time-persistent concentration hotspots were observed throughout the sample area, the magnitude of these appeared to be variable in time and should be evaluated in future studies.
MAGICIAN: MAG simulation for Investigating Criteria for bioInformatic ANalysis
Authors: Steinke Kat , Pamp Sünje J , Munk Patrick 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background The possibility of recovering metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from sequence reads allows for further insights into microbial communities and their members, possibly even analyzing such sequences with tools designed for single-isolate genomes. As result quality depends on sequence quality, performance of tools for single-isolate genomes on MAGs should be tested beforehand. Bioinformatics can be leveraged to quickly create varied synthetic test sets with known composition for this purpose.
Results We present MAGICIAN, a flexible, user-friendly pipeline for the simulation of MAGs. MAGICIAN combines a synthetic metagenome simulator with a metagenomic assembly and binning pipeline to simulate MAGs based on user-supplied input genomes, allowing users to test performance of tools on MAGs while having a ground truth to compare results to. We also demonstrate the use of simulated MAGs by evaluating the suitability of such genomes obtained with MAGICIAN's current default pipeline for analysis with the antimicrobial resistance gene identification tool ResFinder.
Conclusions Using MAGICIAN, it is possible to simulate MAGs which, while generally high in quality, reflect issues encountered with real-world data, thus providing realistic best-case data. Evaluating the results of ResFinder analysis of these genomes revealed a risk for plausible-looking false positives, which underlines the need for pipeline validation so that researchers are aware of the potential issues when interpreting real-world data.
Clinical outcomes of pulpotomy using a premixed injectable calcium silicate cement on mature permanent teeth with reversible pulpitis
Authors: Cho Sin-Yeon , Park Seonghun , Shin Yooseok , Jung Il-Young 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The aim of this two-center randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the outcomes of pulpotomies performed using a premixed injectable calcium silicate cement, compared to mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in mature permanent teeth with reversible pulpitis. Included teeth were randomly divided into two groups according to pulpotomy material (ProRoot MTA group, Endocem MTA Premixed group). After pulp exposure, the superficial pulp was either removed to a depth of 2 mm (partial pulpotomy) or completely amputated to the level of the root canal orifice (full pulpotomy). A 3-mm layer of either material was randomly placed over the pulp wound, followed by the application of a thin layer of a light-cured glass ionomer composite liner. The restoration procedure was then carried out during the same visit. The overall pulpotomy success rate was 94.4% (67/71); 93.9% in the ProRoot MTA and 97.1% in Endocem MTA Premixed with no significant difference between the groups. Calcific bridge formation occurred in 6 (24.0%) cases in the ProRoot MTA group and 10 (40.0%) cases in the Endocem MTA Premixed group. Endocem MTA Premixed is a viable alternative to ProRoot MTA for single-visit pulpotomies of permanent premolars and molars.
Improve prediction accuracy of short time series sequences with self-attention-based stacking algorithm
Authors: Ge Hao , Lyu Yan , Wu Peng , Zhou Xiao-hua , Yu Qian 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Time series forecasting is of paramount importance for the daily operations of various enterprises. Particularly, addressing time series problems with short sequence lengths presents unique challenges, as product life cycles continue to decrease, but conventional time series models still require adequate sample sizes. In this study, we introduce a novel stacked generalization method that incorporates the self-attention mechanism, allowing for the effective utilization of diverse models in short time series forecasting. Through the application of real data, we demonstrate the remarkable potential of our proposed method and show its ability to overcome the limitations of traditional approaches in tackling short time series forecasting problems.
Incidence and risk factors of surgical site infection in abdominal surgeries: A scoping review of cohort and case–control studies
Authors: Jahangir Fereidoun , Okhovati Maryam , Moameri Hossein , Haghdoost AliAkbar 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Background Abdominal surgery is considered a high-risk surgery for the development of surgical site infection. Few studies have evaluated the relative importance of its risk factors. Therefore, in this paper we mapped and summarized the evidence aimed to determine the relative importance of the risk factors and incidence of surgical site infections in abdominal surgery. Methods We searched SCOPUS, PubMed, and Web of Science databases up to March 16, 2023. Using the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute, we used both univariate and multivariate analysis results to evaluate the relative importance of the risk factors. Results Of 14,237 identified records, 107 articles were included in the review. The National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance (NNIS) risk index, operative time, and higher wound class were strong risk factors for surgical site infection incidence. Patients' educational status, malnutrition, functional status, and history of neurological/psychiatric disorders were also the risk factors, but there is a need for more evidence to reach a conclusion. The pooled incidence of surgical site infections was 10.6% (95% CI 9.02–12.55) in abdominal surgery, and the type of surgical procedures accounted for 31.5% of the heterogeneity. Conclusion Our findings show that surgical site infection in abdominal surgery is a multifactorial phenomenon with a considerable risk and has different risk factors with various relative importance. Determining the relative importance of the risk factors for prevention and control of surgical site infection is strongly recommended. We provide some recommendations for future research.
Absorptive Removal of Palm Oil Free Fatty Acids Onto Silica/smectite Composite: A Statistical Study using Box-Behnken Design in Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Kepdieu Jean M. , Tchanang Gustave , Njimou Jacques R. , Djangang Chantale N. , Maicaneanu Sanda A. , Tizaoui Chedly 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Response Surface Methodology was used to evaluate the main and interactions effects of contact time (20–60 min), temperature (60–90°C) and adsorbent dosage (1–2%) of the palm oil free fatty acids (FFAs) adsorption onto a silica/smectite composite. The regression model was found to be able to predict more than 99% of the targeted response variation in the studied range (R2 = 99.31%). An ANOVA was used to evaluate the accuracy of the regression model and it was found to predict more than 99% of the response variation. The Pareto Charts of Standardized Effects showed that almost all the explanatory factors were influential. The factorial plots evidenced that time/temperature interaction was most effective and the corresponding contour and surface plots were drawn. The second-order kinetic model was better followed with the highest value of the determination coefficient (R2 = 0.996) and the lowest value of Root Mean Square Deviation of 0.555. Response Optimizer Function showed an optimum for FFAs removal of more than 90% (27.18 mg of KOH/g) at the adsorbent dosage of 2%, contact time of 60 min, and temperature of 90°C. Moreover, a good correlation between the predicted and experimental values was observed within reasonable limits.
Exploring the Impact of Stage and Tumor Site on Colorectal Cancer Survival: Bayesian Survival Modeling
Authors: Alinia Shayeste , Ahmadi Samira , Mohammadi Zahra , shirvandeh Farzaneh Rastkar , Asghari-Jafarabadi Mohammad , Safari Malihe , Roshanaei Ghodratollah , Mahmoudi Leila 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction: Colorectal cancer is a prevalent malignancy with global significance. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the influence of stage and tumor site on survival outcomes in 284 colorectal cancer patients diagnosed between 2001 and 2017.
Method:Patients were categorized into four groups based on tumor site (colon and rectum) and disease stage (early stage and advanced stage). Demographic characteristics, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes were recorded. Bayesian survival modeling was performed using semi-competing risks illness-death models with an accelerated failure time (AFT) approach, utilizing R 4.1 software.
Results: Results demonstrated significantly higher time ratios for disease recurrence (TR = 1.712, 95% CI = 1.489-2.197), mortality without recurrence (TR = 1.933, 1.480-2.510), and mortality after recurrence (TR = 1.847, 1.147-2.178) in early-stage colon cancer (Cc - early stage) compared to early-stage rectal cancer (RC). Furthermore, patients with advanced-stage rectal cancer (RC-advanced stages) exhibited shorter survival times for disease recurrence than patients with early-stage colon cancer (Cc-early stages). The interaction effect between disease site and cancer stage was not significant.
Conclusion: These findings, derived from the optimal Bayesian log-normal model for terminal and non-terminal events, highlight the importance of early detection and effective management strategies for colon cancer. Early-stage colon cancer (Cc - early stage) demonstrated improved survival rates for disease recurrence, mortality without recurrence, and mortality after recurrence compared to other stages. Early intervention and comprehensive care are crucial to enhance prognosis and minimize adverse events in colon cancer patients.
Causal relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and asthma: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wu Yingni , Cheng Xiaoning 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Backgrounds: To date, the question of whether there is a causal relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and asthma remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the bidirectional causal relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and asthma (allergic and nonallergic). Methods We used publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was used as the primary analysis method. MR‒Egger, weighted median and weighted mode were used as complementary methods to IVW. In addition, sensitivity analyses were performed using MR‒Egger, Cochran's Q test and leave-one-out analysis to ensure the robustness of the results. Results The IVW results showed that obstructive sleep apnea had a causal effect on both allergic asthma (OR = 1.16, 95% CI:1.01–1.34, P < 0.05) and nonallergic asthma (OR = 1.27, 95% CI:1.08–1.49, P < 0.05). In addition, allergic asthma was also causally associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OR = 1.10, 95% CI:1.04–1.17, P < 0.05). However, nonallergic asthma had no causal effect on obstructive sleep apnea (OR = 1.04, 95% CI:0.98–1.09, P = 0.190). Cochran's Q test, MR‒Egger regression and MR-PRESSO Global test suggested that the results were robust. Conclusions This study found that obstructive sleep apnea had a causal effect on both allergic and nonallergic asthma. Conversely, there was a causal effect of allergic asthma on obstructive sleep apnea. However, nonallergic asthma had no causal effect on obstructive sleep apnea.
A Case Study of Congressional Districting: ``Rocks-Pebbles-Sand'' Approach
Authors: Risk Jimmy , Switkes Jennifer , Zhang Ann 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
As a case study into an algorithmic approach to congressional districting, North Carolina provides a lot to explore. Statistical modeling has called into question whether recent North Carolina district plans are unbiased. In particular, the literature suggests that the district plan used in the 2016 U.S. House of Representatives election yields outlier results that are statistically unlikely to be obtained without the application of bias. Therefore, methods for creating strong and fair district plans are needed. Informed by previous districting models and algorithms, we build a model and algorithm to produce an ensemble of viable Congressional district plans. Our work contributes a ''Rocks-Pebbles-Sand'' concept and procedure facilitating reasonable population equity with a small overall number of county splits among districts. This case study indicates plausibility of an approach built upon an easy-to-understand intuition.
Occurrence of Heavy Metals Concentration in Grown Food Crops (Manihot Esculenta and Colocasia Esculenta) Around Disused Ogbete Coal Mine in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbuene Emeka Bright , Ezeanata G. Chinenye , Ogbuka Josiah C. , Achoru Fred E. , Alo Obianuju G. , Okolo J. Obiageli , Ozorme A. Vivian 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The major food crops frequently consumed by many communities in southeastern Nigeria are Manihot esculenta (cassava) and Colocasia esculenta (cocoyam). The crops are sometimes grown in disused mining sites which could contaminate the crops and pose health risks. This study was conducted to assess the occurrence and concentration of heavy metals in the soil and crop samples Manihot esculenta (cassava) and Colocasia esculenta (cocoyam) around the disused coal mine area in Ogbete Enugu, Nigeria. The five heavy metals studied were (Cd, Cr, Zn, Ni and Pb). The samples included twenty-four crops of which eighteen were collected from three sampling locations (farmlands in the disused coal mine area). The control samples were collected from a farm in the GRA Enugu area (farmland without coal mining activity). Using a double acid digestion procedure, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) was used in laboratory analysis. The data generated were analyzed using ANOVA. The result indicated that the concentration of (Cd, Cr, Zn, Ni and Pb) in the soil samples at the farm within the disused coal mine area were higher than the concentration in the control area except for Ni concentration which is below in the Farm 3. The occurrence and concentration of heavy metals in food crops range from (0.00 – 0.103 for Cadmium), (0.00- 0.851for chromium), (0.00- 0.187 for zinc), (0.00- 0.851 for Nickel), and (0.00 – 0.015 for lead). Some heavy metals' concentrations recorded were below the WHO limits. The low values recorded could be attributed to the fact that the study area is not an active mining site. Also in crop samples, especially cocoa yam Ni and Zn were below the concentration in the control. However, the study emphasized that food grown in the disused mining site could pose human health risks. Hence, the study recommends the continuous monitoring of heavy metal concentration in the Ogbete disused coal mine in Enugu, Nigeria. The study also suggests that cocoyam can be recommended for phytoremediation of soil polluted by Nickel and Zinc.
Pupillometry reveals effects of pitch manipulations both within and across words on listening effort and short-term memory
Authors: Zhang Yue , Sares Anastasia , Delage Arthur , Lehmann Alexandre , Deroche Mickael 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

For individuals with hearing loss, even successful speech communication comes at a cost. Cochlear implants transmit degraded acoustic, specifically pitch, information, which demands extra and sustained listening effort. The current study hypothesized that abnormal pitch patterns contribute to the additional listening effort, even in non-tonal language native speaking NH listeners. We manipulated the fundamental frequency within-and-across-words, while participants listen and repeat (simple intelligibility task), or listen, repeat, and later recall (concurrent encoding task) the words. In both experiments, the F0 manipulations resulted in small changes in intelligibility but no difference in free recall or subjective effort ratings. Pupillary metrics were more sensitive to these manipulations: peak pupil dilations were larger when words were monotonized (flat pitch contour) or inverted (the natural contour flipped upside-down), and larger when successive words were organized into a melodic pattern. Therefore, natural or expected pitch contour of a word can participate to its identity and facilitate its matching and retrieval from the phonological representation stored in the long-term memory. Consequently, degrading words’ pitch contour can result in extra listening effort. Our results call for solutions to improve pitch saliency and naturalness in future development of cochlear implants signal processing strategies, even for non-tonal languages.
Multi Criteria Decision Analysis, Hesitant Fuzzy Methodology towards to Expert Systems for analysing financial markets dynamics
Authors: Ferrara Massimiliano , Ciano Tiziana , Nava Consuelo Rubina , Cananà Lucianna 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Decisions Support Systems are a mixture of different methods and tools combined by machine learning approach. This study uses the most important machine learning techniques (logistic regression, artificial neural networks, and support vector machines) and the expert-based method (fuzzy analytic hierarchy process and hesitant fuzzy numbers) to study some financial markets dynamics. The objective of the study is to examine the main approaches developed by theory and operational practice for the purposes of conceptual representation, management and quality assessment. Different tools are applied to support decisions makers, such as AHPSort II to model the hierarchical structure, FAHP to determine weights in the construction of the matrix of the pairwise comparison and Hesitant Fuzzy Sets (HFS) to better represent the preferences of the decisions makers.
From isolation to integration: Assessing habitat connectivity of the endangered saiga antelope in Mongolia
Authors: Chimeddorj Buyanaa , Buuveibaatar Bayarbaatar , Galsandorj Naranbaatar , Dolgorjav Sanjmyatav , Myanganbuu Nyamkhuu , Bayandonoi Gantulga , Sundev Gombobaatar 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of habitat connectivity for the Mongolian saiga, a species endemic to the Western Mongolia. We utilized a resource selection function (RSF) to identify core habitats (CHs) throughout the saiga's entire range. Additionally, the Circuitscape approach was employed to map the least cost paths (LCPs) among these core habitats. The RSF models revealed a strong preference for high productivity areas, while avoiding disturbed regions. Through a spatially explicit model, 34 CHs covering an area of 12,480 km2 (30.7% of the saiga's range) were identified. The connectivity models identified 68 LCPs between various pairs of CHs, totaling 1,700 km in length across the entire saiga range. The core habitat in the center of the saiga range displayed the highest centrality scores, highlighting their critical importance in maintaining their habitat interconnectedness. Furthermore, the presence of pinch points was observed in several CH pairs within the northwest region, suggesting potential bottlenecks that may hinder movement between these habitats. It is imperative to implement measures aimed at addressing these pinch points and establishing secure corridors to facilitate the saiga movement between the CHs. To ensure the survival of the saiga, it is also crucial to mitigate the impact of existing and planned linear infrastructures, as well as other human disturbances that have the potential to fragment habitats and disrupt connectivity. These findings serve as valuable insights for targeted conservation efforts and the formulation of effective management strategies geared towards safeguarding this iconic species in Western Mongolia.
Network pharmacology and molecular docking in the exploration of Taohong Siwu decoction against coronary heart disease
Authors: Chen Shaolin , Yu Fenglian , Ye Mingfang , Gao Jia 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Taohong Siwu decoction (TSD) is a traditional Chinese medicine formulation that has been widely used to treat coronary heart disease (CHD), although its underlying biological mechanism is unknown. Using gene or pathway terminology for analytical studies, protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network-based analysis, and PPI cluster recognition, we performed network pharmacology and molecular docking methods in this research. We used the MCODE method to evaluate the efficacy of TSD for CHD and to screen core targets. This research uses network pharmacology and molecular docking methods to first define the possible mechanism of TSD in the treatment of CHD.
Method: The active ingredients of TSD and their targets were obtained by TCMSP, and a drug-component-target map was constructed using Cytoscape software. The pathogenic targets of CHD were obtained through the Gene Cardsdatabase, and the intersection obtained between the screened targets and the drug targets was added to the STRING database to create a PPI network.Cytoscape was used to examine the results, and the core targets were screened in MCODE. In the DAVID database, overlapping targets underwent GO and KEGG analysis. Finally, the core targets and active ingredients were analyzed by molecular docking.
Result: The drug-ingredient-target network model has 216 nodes and 669 connections. Kaempferol, luteolin, and baicalein were the main substances with the highest degree values. AKT1, IL-6, and TNF are the primary receptors in the PPI network with the highest degrees. TSD therapy for CHD primarily involves control of cardiac contractility, and according to GO and KEGG analysis, lipid and atherosclerosis, the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, smooth muscle hyperplasia, apoptosis, and death-induced signaling are involved. On the basis of molecular docking results, kaempferol, luteolin, and baicalein have high affinities for AKT1, IL-6, and TNF.