bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization and properties of a new insensitive explosive co-crystal composed of trinitrotoluene and pyrene
Authors: Sen Nilgun , Aslan Nazife , Yuksel Bayram , Teciman Irem 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
A new energetic co-crystal of trinitrotoluene (TNT) and pyrene (PYRN) with a 1:1 molar ratio was prepared by a slow solvent evaporation technique. Co-crystal physicochemical properties have also been examined using optical microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, single crystal X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry. The results of single-crystal X-ray diffraction and non-covalent interaction calculations showed that non-covalent interactions (donor-acceptor π-π interaction) govern the structures of the TNT: PYRN co-crystal. The experimental and theoretical outcomes supported each other in the study. Thermal stability, impact sensitivity, and detonation performance of the co-crystal were investigated. DSC measurement indicates that the co-crystal has a melting point of 167°C and a decomposition temperature of 293°C, indicating outstanding thermal stability. The co-crystal was found to be less impact-sensitive than TNT using the BAM fall hammer instrument. Furthermore, the calculated detonation velocity and detonation pressure of the co-crystal are 5.29 km. s−1 and 8.48 G Pa, respectively. As an outcome, the TNT: PYRN co-crystal may be a promising intermediate energy explosive with low sensitivity and, as such, may be a desirable explosive alternative in the future instead of TNT for low-vulnerability formulations.
Total intravenous anesthesia shortens hospital stay after lung resection surgery: A propensity score matching study.
Authors: Hsu Fu-Kai , Cheng Hung-Wei , Teng Wei-Nung , Hsu Po-Kuei , Hsu Han-Shui , Chang Wen-Kuei , Ting Chien‑Kun 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background There is no consensus regarding the superiority of volatile or total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) in reducing the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) after lung resection surgery (LRS). Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of TIVA and volatile anesthesia on the incidence of PPCs in patients who underwent LRS. We hypothesized that TIVA is associated with a lower incidence of PPCs than volatile anesthesia.Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent LRS at Taipei Veterans General Hospital between January 2016 and December 2020. The patients’ charts were reviewed and data on patient characteristics, perioperative features, and postoperative outcomes were extracted and analyzed. The patients were categorized into TIVA and volatile anesthesia groups and their clinical data were compared. Propensity score matching was performed to reduce potential selection bias. The primary outcome was the difference between the incidence of PPCs in the volatile anesthesia and TIVA groups, whereas the secondary outcomes were the differences in the incidences of other postoperative events, such as length of hospital stay (LOS) and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), between the two groups.Results A total of 396 patients each were included in the TIVA and volatile anesthesia groups. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of PPCs between the volatile anesthetic and TIVA groups. The TIVA group had a shorter LOS (p < 0.001) and a lower incidence of PONV than the volatile anesthesia group (4.5% in the TIVA group vs. 8.8% in the volatile anesthesia group; p = 0.016). However, there were no significant differences in reintubation, 30-day readmission, and reoperation rates between the two groups.Conclusions There is no significant difference between the incidence of PPCs in patients who underwent LRS under TIVA and that in patients who underwent LRS under volatile anesthesia. However, TIVA may be a better choice for maintenance of anesthesia in patients undergoing LRS.
In silico bioprospecting of receptors associated with the mechanism of action of Rondonin, an antifungal peptide from spider Acanthoscurria rondoniae hemolymph
Authors: Seif Elias Jorge Muniz , Icimoto Marcelo Yudi , Junior Pedro Ismael da Silva 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Multiresistant fungal species are associated with the development of diseases. Thus, there is a need to develop more efficient drugs for the treatment of these etiological agents. Rondonin is a peptide isolated from the hemolymph of spiders Acanthoscurria rondoniae. Previous studies showed that this peptide presented antifungal activity against Candida sp. and Trichosporon sp. strains, acting in genetic material. However, the molecular targets involved in your biological activity have not yet been described. To determine possible targets involved in the biological activity of Rondonin using bioinformatics tools. The PharmMapper server was used to search microorganism targets for Rondonin. The PatchDock server was used to perform molecular docking. UCSF Chimera software was used to evaluate these intermolecular interactions. In addition, the I-TASSER server was used to predict the target ligand sites. In the end, all predictions were contrasted with the sites previously described in the literature. Rondonin was consistent with the ligand sites of the following targets: outer membrane proteins F (id:1MPF) and A (id:1QJP), responsible for allowing the passage of small molecules through the plasmatic membrane, subunit of the flavoprotein fumarate reductase (id:1D4E), responsible for the metabolism of nitrogenous bases, and ATP-dependent Holliday DNA helicase junction (id:1IN4), associated with histone proteins that fold the genetic material. These interactions corroborate previous in vitro studies on Rondonin, which acts on fungal genetic material without plasmatic membrane rupture. Therefore, the bioprospecting methods used in this research were considered satisfactory since they showed agreement with previous results obtained in vitro.
Do methodological differences in experiments with stream shredders imply variability in outputs? A microcosm approach
Authors: Firmino Viviane Caetano , Brasil Leandro Schlemmer , Juen Leandro , Hamada Neusa , Martins Renato Tavares 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Experiments are useful scientific tools for testing hypotheses by manipulating variables of interest while controlling for other factors that can bias or confuse the results and their interpretation. However, to ensure accuracy and reproducibility, experiments must have transparent and repeatable methodologies. We experimentally tested the effect of different methodological approaches in microcosm experiments on the consumption and survival of shredders. We found that the shredder species, the presence or absence of the case in the shredders, and the use or non-use of air-pumps in the microcosms did not affect the shredder performance (i.e., consumption and survival). Furthermore, the type of water (stream or bottled) did not affect shredder performance. On the other hand, the amount of light had a negative effect on shredder performance, with constant light (i.e., 24 hours) reducing shredder consumption and survival. Our results highlight the importance of transparent and repeatable methodologies in experiments. Different methodological approaches in microcosm experiments can influence the results and their interpretation. This finding is especially worrying when we measure gains and losses in ecosystem functions by recreating natural conditions in the laboratory, where factors that are not of interest may affect or interact with the results. In addition, our findings offer valuable insights that can help researchers design experiments with shredders from neotropical streams.
Promoting degradation of polyamide-microplastic fibers using hydroxy radical
Authors: Meboso Taichi , Takatsuji Yoshiyuki , Takamura Eiichiro , Haruyama Tetsuya , Sakamoto Hiroaki 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Microplastic fibers (MPFs) generated by washing textile products made of synthetic fibers cannot be removed at sewage treatment plants and are released into rivers and oceans. In this study, we proposed using hydroxy radical (•OH) to degrade MPF. •OH exhibits high-performance oxidizing ability in water, allowing MPFs to be degraded in an aqueous environment. Herein, we investigated the degradation of polyamide 6/6 (PA6/6), as a common MPF. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed that the signal of amide bonds (-CONH-) were reduced and new signal of carboxyl groups (-COOH) were formed in the sample after degradation. In addition, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry confirmed that several short-chain amide compounds were released into the degraded solution. These results suggest that the amide bonds in the PA6/6 molecular structure are cleaved by the •OH, thereby accelerating the degradation of PA6/6. The proposed degradation method achieved a much faster degradation rate than other methods using microorganisms, and is expected to be a novel MPF degradation method.
Multiphase and multiparameter MRI-based radiomics for prediction of tumor response to neoadjuvant therapy in locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Huang Hongyan , Han Lujun , Guo Jianbo , Zhang Yanyu , Lin Shiwei , Chen Shengli , Lin Xiaoshan , Cheng Caixue , Guo Zheng , Qiu Yingwei 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background: To develop and validate radiomic models for prediction of tumor response to neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) using both pre-NAT and post-NAT multiparameter magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI).
Methods: In this multicenter study, a total of 563 patients were included from two independent centers. 453 patients from center 1 were split into training and testing cohorts, the remaining 110 from center 2 served as an external validation cohort. Pre-NAT and post-NAT mpMRI was collected for feature extraction. The radiomic models were constructed using machine learning from a training cohort. The accuracy of the models was verified in a testing cohort and an independent external validation cohort. Model performance was evaluated using area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value.
Results: The model constructed with pre-NAT mpMRI had favorable accuracy for prediction of non-response to NAT in the training cohort (AUC = 0.84), testing cohort (AUC = 0.81), and external validation cohort (AUC = 0.79), which outperformed single-sequence MRI. The model constructed with both pre-NAT and post-NAT mpMRI had powerful diagnostic value for pathologic complete response (pCR) in the training cohort (AUC = 0.86), testing cohort (AUC = 0.87), and external validation cohort (AUC = 0.87), which outperformed single-phase mpMRI and MR tumor regression grade for identification of pCR.
Conclusions: Models constructed with multiphase and multiparameter MRI were able to predict tumor response to NAT with high accuracy and robustness, which may assist in individualized management of LARC.
Real Time Sign Language Recognition
Authors: Varshney Pankaj Kumar , Kumar Gaurav , Kumar Shrawan , Thakur Bharti , Saini Plakshi , Mahajan Vanshika 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Speaking with someone who have hearing loss may be quite challenging. Systems that can recognize different signs and alert regular people are thus required. Recognition of sign language is a big development in assisting deaf-mute persons. With the exception of J and Z, which require motion detection for recognition, the objective of this study is to create a model based on neural networks for precise and user-friendly sign language identification that can identify finger spelling-based hand gestures representing the ASL alphabets.
Isolation of extracellular vesicles from pine (Pinus sp.) leaves and roots
Authors: Kunene Sithembile , Steenkamp Emma , Motaung Thabiso 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Plants release extracellular vesicles (EVs) for various reasons, such as unconventional protein secretion, RNA transport, and defence against pathogens. However, very little is known about plant EV biosynthesis and diverse and bioactive luminal contents, including how they alter recipient cell biology and function. To study EVs, researchers often isolate them from apoplastic wash or juice fluids using various methods. A method is needed to isolate EVs from non-model plants with tougher leaves such as species in the Pinus genus. Because of their spindly and sharp shape, pines have strong acicular-shaped leaves that are commonly called needles. Unlike all other taproots, pine seedlings grow into a primary root first, which gives rise to lateral roots later. There are also various dimensions and shapes of pine needles, but they are relatively strong compared to the leaves of other plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana, where most EV studies have been concentrated. Extracting EVs from a juice fluid is highly effective for plants with tougher leaves because it ensures that the cells have been broken down and the vesicles are present. Given these reasons, we describe our method for the isolation and purification of EVs from needles and roots of different pine species. A detailed protocol is provided that can guide the collection of juice fluid from pine needles and roots in a clean and efficient manner. A number of other plant species with similar morphologies can greatly benefit from the use of this protocol.
Basic protocol 1: Isolation of extracellular vesicles from juice fluid of pine leaves and roots
Basic protocol 2: Isolation of pine extracellular vesicles from juice fluid using size exclusion chromatography
Association of insecticide resistance profiles in Anopheles gambiae s.l. with agricultural practices in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Kouadio France Paraudie A. , Wipf Nadja C. , Sika Angèle N. , Fodjo Behi K. , Sadia Christabelle G. , Vontas John , Mavridis Konstantinos , Müller Pie , Mouhamadou Chouaïbou S. 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background Insecticide-based malaria vector control is increasingly undermined due to the development of insecticide resistance in mosquitoes. Insecticide resistance may partially be related to the use of pesticides in agriculture, while the level and mechanisms of resistance might differ between agricultural practices. The current study aimed to assess whether phenotypic insecticide resistance and associated molecular resistance mechanisms in Anopheles gambiae s.l. differ between agricultural practices.Methods We collected Anopheles gambiae s.l. larvae in six sites with three different agricultural practices, including rice, vegetable and cocoa cultivation. We then exposed the emerging adult females to discriminating concentrations of bendiocarb (0.1%), deltamethrin (0.05%), DDT (4%) and malathion (5%) using the standard World Health Organization insecticide susceptibility test. To investigate underlying molecular mechanisms of resistance, we used multiplex TaqMan qPCR assays. We determined the frequency of target-site mutations, including Vgsc-L995F/S and Vgsc-N1570Y, and Ace1-G280S. In addition, we measured the expression levels of genes previously associated with insecticide resistance in An. gambiae s.l., including the cytochrome P450-dependent monooxygenases CYP4G16, CYP6M2, CYP6P1, CYP6P3, CYP6P4, CYP6Z1 and CYP9K1, and the glutathione S-transferase GSTe2.Results The An. gambiae s.l. populations from all six agricultural sites were resistant to bendiocarb, deltamethrin and DDT, while the populations from the two vegetable cultivation sites were additionally resistant to malathion. Most tested mosquitoes carried at least one mutant Vgsc-L995F allele that is associated with pyrethroid and DDT resistance. In the cocoa cultivation sites, we observed the highest 995F frequencies (80–87%), including a majority of homozygous mutants and several in co-occurrence with the Vgsc-N1570Y mutation. We detected the Ace1 mutation most frequently in vegetable growing sites (51–60%), at moderate frequency in rice (20%-22%) and rarely in cocoa growing sites (3–4%). In contrast, CYP6M2, CYP6P3, CYP6P4, CYP6Z1 and CYP9K1, previously associated with metabolic insecticide resistance, showed highest expression levels in the populations from rice growing sites compared to the susceptible Kisumu reference strain.Conclusion In our study we observed intriguing associations between the type of agricultural practices and certain insecticide resistance profiles in the malaria vector An. gambiae s.l. which might arise from the use of pesticides deployed for protecting crops.
Variation in the influence of concerns about contraceptive-induced fertility impairment on hormonal contraceptive use by parity and residence; evidence from PMA Ethiopia 2020 cross- sectional survey
Authors: Zimmerman Linnea A. , Karp Celia , Shiferaw Solomon , Seme Assefa , Bell Suzanne O. 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background Fear of contraceptive-induced fertility impairment is a major deterrent to contraceptive use, however, few studies have explored whether and how this fear varies by life course or residence.
Objectives We use cross-sectional nationally representative data from the 2020 PMA Ethiopia survey to describe patterns of concerns about contraceptive-induced infertility, assess the relationship between these concerns and current contraceptive use and assess whether these relationships vary by parity and residence.
Methods We use descriptive statistics among a sample of 7,491 women, age 15-49, to assess agreement with the statement “If I use family planning, I may have trouble getting pregnant next time I want to”, a proxy for concerns about contraceptive-induced fertility impairment. We use multilevel hierarchical models to assess how agreement is associated with the use of a hormonal method of contraception among 3,882 sexually active, fecund women who wish to prevent pregnancy. We include interaction terms for parity and residence.
Results About six in ten women disagreed (42.3%) or strongly disagreed (20.7%) with the statement. Relative to women who strongly disagreed, women who disagreed and women who agreed had significantly lower odds of using a hormonal method of contraception (aOR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44-0.97 and 0.46, 95% CI: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.30-0.70). This effect was strongest among high parity women (aOR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.30-0.95). Greater agreement with the statement at the community-level use was associated with a reduction in the odds of using hormonal contraception, but only among rural women.
Discussion While the majority of women in Ethiopia either disagree or strongly disagree that use of hormonal contraception may influence fertility, efforts to address this concern, particularly amongst high-parity women and in rural communities, through the provision of comprehensive counseling and through community education or other mass media campaigns are necessary. Incorporation of comprehensive counseling, particularly as a part of postpartum care, is an opportunity to address concerns about contraceptive-induced infertility.
Mechanical Properties Assessment of Indigenous Timber Wood Species in Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Adibe Chinaza Samuel , Edum Ngozi Peace , Nwankwo Emmanuel Chibuike 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
We examined the mechanical properties of four native wood species in southeastern Nigeria, including Alstonia congensis, Ceiba pentandra, Milicia excelsa, and Terminalia superba. The samples were milled and trimmed to standard sizes and subjected to a three-point bending test. The mechanical properties modulus of rupture (MOR) and compression parallel to grain were tested using the Universal Testing Machine, with machine no: 0500-10080. We computed the force at the point of failure, modulus of elasticity and compression parallel to the grain. Here show that the samples from the selected indigenous timber species had significant variations in the mechanical properties, with the highest MOR being 94.185N/mm2, MOE 3553.098N/mm2 and compressive strength being 54.224N/mm2. The flexural and compression strength of Terminalia superba wood material was significantly higher relative to Milicia excelsa, Alstonia congensis and Ceiba pentandra. Our findings provide valuable information on the mechanical properties of these species sourced from southeastern Nigeria, which can be used to assess their suitability for a variety of applications.
Mitochondrial genomic investigation reveals a clear association between species and genotypes of Lucilia and geographic origin in Australia
Authors: Kapoor Shilpa , Young Neil D. , Yang Ying Ting , Batterham Philip , Gasser Robin B. , Bowles Vernon M. , Anstead Clare A. , Perry Trent 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background Lucilia cuprina and L. sericata (family Calliphoridae) are globally significant ectoparasites of sheep. Current literature suggests that only one of these blowfly subspecies, L. cuprina dorsalis, is a primary parasite causing myiasis (flystrike) in sheep in Australia. These species and subspecies are difficult to distinguish using morphological features. Hence, being able to accurately identify blowflies is critical for diagnosis and for understanding their relationships with their hosts and environment.Methods In this study, adult blowflies (5 pools of 17 flies; n = 85) were collected from five locations in different states [New South Wales (NSW), Queensland (QLD), Tasmania (TAS), Victoria (VIC) and Western Australia (WA)] of Australia and their mitochondrial (mt) genomes were assembled.Results Each mt genome assembled was ~ 15 kb in size and encoded 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs and a control region. The Lucilia species mt genomes were conserved in structure and the genes retained the same order and direction. The overall nucleotide composition was heavily biased towards As and Ts − 77.7% of the whole genomes. Pairwise nucleotide diversity suggested divergence between L. cuprina cuprina, L. c. dorsalis and L. sericata. Comparative analyses of these mt genomes with published data demonstrated that the blowflies collected from sheep farm in TAS clustered within a clade with L. sericata. The flies collected from an urban location in QLD were more closely related to L. sericata and represented the subspecies L. c. cuprina, whereas the flies collected from sheep farms in NSW, VIC and WA represented the subspecies L. c. dorsalis.Conclusions Phylogenetic analyses of the mt genomes representing Lucilia from the five geographic locations in Australia supported the previously demonstrated paraphyly of L. cuprina with respect to L. sericata and revealed that L. c. cuprina is distinct from L. c. dorsalis, and that L. c. cuprina is more closely related to L. sericata than L. c. dorsalis. The mt genomes reported here provide an important molecular resource to develop tools for species- and subspecies-level identification of Lucilia from different geographical regions across Australia.