bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Measurements of the Cherenkov effect in direct detection of charged particles with SiPMs
Authors: Carnesecchi F. , Sabiu B. , Strazzi S. , Vignola G. , Agrawal N. , Alici A. , Antonioli P. , Arcelli S. , Bellini F. , Cavazza D. , Cifarelli L. , Colocci M. , Durando S. , Ercolessi F. , Falchieri D. , Ficorella A. , Fraticelli C. , Garbini M. , Giacalone M. , Gola A. , Hatzifotiadou D. , Jacazio N. , Margotti A. , Malfattore G. , Nania R. , Noferini F. , Paternoster G. , Pinazza O. , Preghenella R. , Rath R. , Ricci R. , Rignanese L. , Romanenko G. , Rubini N. , Scapparone E. , Scioli G. , Zichichi A. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractIn this paper, different Silicon PhotoMultiplier (SiPM) sensors have been tested with charged particles to characterize the Cherenkov light produced in the sensor protection layer. A careful position scan of the SiPM response has been performed with different prototypes, confirming the large number of firing cells and proving almost full efficiency, with the SiPM filling factor essentially negligible. This study also allowed us to study the time resolution of such devices as a function of the number of firing cells, reaching values below 20 ps. These measurements provide significant insight into the capabilities of SiPM sensors in direct detection of charged particles and their potential for several applications.
Characterization of the immunomodulatory protein isolated from guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) churna, an ayurvedic rejuvenator
Authors: Shruthi Raju R. , Aranha Ivan , Venkatesh Yeldur P. 
Published: September 2023

Objective: Guduchi [Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) f. and Thoms.], a rasayana (rejuvenator) in the traditional system of Indian medicine (Ayurveda), is known for its diverse bioactivities. The aim of this study was to isolate the immunomodulatory protein (ImP) from commercial guduchi churna (stem powder) and characterize it. Methods: Guduchi churna extract following 80% ammonium sulfate precipitation was chromatographed on Q-Sepharose. Purified guduchi ImP was evaluated for its lymphoproliferative and macrophage activation properties, structural relatedness to certain plant lectins, amino acid composition, stability to trypsin, and N-terminal sequencing. Results: The purified protein, obtained in a yield of 140[Formula: see text]mg/100[Formula: see text]g guduchi churna, showed a molecular mass of [Formula: see text] kDa by SDS-PAGE. Guduchi ImP (10 [Formula: see text]g) showed seven-fold increase over control in mitogenic activity of murine splenocytes, and a four-fold increase over control in nitric oxide (NO) release from murine peritoneal exudates cells (PECs). These activities were abolished in pronase-treated guduchi ImP. Guduchi ImP does not agglutinate rabbit erythrocytes. Rabbit antiserum to guduchi stem ImP strongly reacted with purified guduchi ImP, and did not recognize common plant lectins (concanavalin A (Con A), poke weed mitogen (PWM) and garlic lectin). Amino acid composition of guduchi ImP shows high content of acidic amino acids, serine (12.4%) and cysteine (10.2%); guduchi ImP is highly stable to trypsin and has a blocked N-terminus. Conclusion: Guduchi ImP is an acidic, non-lectin ImP with a high content of serine and cysteine, and appears to have an immense potential for future structural, immunological, and therapeutic studies.
Genomic and Transcriptomic Landscape of an Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Mouse Model for Immunotherapy
Authors: Lee Yi-Mei , Hsu Chia-Lang , Chen Yu-Hsin , Ou Da-Liang , Hsu Chiun , Tan Ching-Ting 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI), anti–programmed death-1 (anti–PD-1), has shown moderate efficacy in some patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Because of this, it is imperative to establish a mouse tumor model to explore mechanisms of antitumor immunity and to develop novel therapeutic options. Here, we examined the 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO)–induced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) model for genetic aberrations, transcriptomic profiles, and immune cell composition at different pathologic stages. Genomic exome analysis in OSCC-bearing mice showed conservation of critical mutations found in human HNSCC. Transcriptomic data revealed that a key signature comprised of immune-related genes was increased beginning at the moderate dysplasia stages. We first identified that macrophage composition in primary tumors differed across pathologic stages, leading to an oncogenic evolution through a change in the M1/M2 macrophage ratio during tumorigenesis. We treated the 4NQO-induced OSCC-bearing mice with anti–PD-1 and agonistic anti-CD40, which modulated multiple immune responses. The growth of tumor cells was significantly decreased by agonistic anti-CD40 by promoting an increase in the M1/M2 ratio. By examining cross-species genomic conservation in human and mouse tumors, our study demonstrates the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of OSCC and the regulation of contributing immune-related factors, and aims to facilitate the development of suitable ICI-based treatments for patients with HNSCC.
A Review of the Impact of Climate Change on Water Security and Livelihoods in Semiarid Africa: Cases From Kenya, Malawi, and Ghana
Authors: Dinko Dinko Hanaan , Bahati Ibrahim 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Within semiarid Africa, precipitation is the most important hydrological variable upon which livelihoods are carved since it determines the cycle of rainfall and water security needed for agriculture. However, research shows that climate change has largely altered that. This article critically reviews the extensive literature on climate-water-livelihoods in semiarid sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the common threads that underlie them. By comparing three cases in three different regions (Ghana for West Africa, Kenya for East Africa, and Malawi for Southern Africa), this article provides a basis for cross-comparison and a framework for understanding the impact of climate change on water security and livelihoods in semiarid Africa. A cross-country, cross-region comparison of the impact of climate change on water security is essential for long-term and medium-term preparedness for adaptation to climate-induced water insecurity. Crucially, this calls for a renewed focus on the synergies between climate change and social, ecological, political, and economic factors, which have often been ignored in the water insecurity and climate change discourse on semiarid areas.
Capacity-Building for Successful Climate Justice Collaborations
Authors: Sarang Surbhi , Prabhakar Ranjani 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThe traditional environmental movement has historically excluded communities of color and ignored environmental issues of concern to them. This has impeded partnerships with climate justice communities and groups and perpetuated inequitable climate policies. For climate justice to be achieved, the traditional environmental movement must repair relationships, collaborate with climate justice communities on just and equitable terms, and incorporate climate justice into its agenda. These efforts will succeed only if traditional environmental organizations invest in building their capacity to engage in climate justice work, including training staff in new skills such as cultural competency. This article examines the barriers impeding climate justice partnerships and details the skills organizations must develop to overcome these barriers. The article then explores systems of accountability to hold organizations responsible for building their capability to engage in climate justice partnerships and recommends criteria to assess their progress.
A hybrid spatiotemporal deep belief network and sparse representation-based framework reveals multilevel core functional components in decoding multitask fMRI signals
Authors: Song Limei , Ren Yudan , Xu Shuhan , Hou Yuqing , He Xiaowei 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Decoding human brain activity on various task-based functional brain imaging data is of great significance for uncovering the functioning mechanism of the human mind. Currently, most feature extraction model-based methods for brain state decoding are shallow machine learning models, which may struggle to capture complex and precise spatiotemporal patterns of brain activity from the highly noisy fMRI raw data. Moreover, although decoding models based on deep learning methods benefit from their multilayer structure that could extract spatiotemporal features at multiscale, the relatively large populations of fMRI datasets are indispensable, and the explainability of their results is elusive. To address the above problems, we proposed a computational framework based on hybrid spatiotemporal deep belief network and sparse representations to differentiate multitask fMRI (tfMRI) signals. Using a relatively small cohort of tfMRI data as a test bed, our framework can achieve an average classification accuracy of 97.86% and define the multilevel temporal and spatial patterns of multiple cognitive tasks. Intriguingly, our model can characterize the key components for differentiating the multitask fMRI signals. Overall, the proposed framework can identify the interpretable and discriminative fMRI composition patterns at multiple scales, offering an effective methodology for basic neuroscience and clinical research with relatively small cohorts.
Executive functions–based reading training engages the cingulo-opercular and dorsal attention networks
Authors: Taran Nikolay , Farah Rola , Gashri Carmel , Gitman Ester , Rosch Keri , Schlaggar Bradley L. , Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a computerized executive functions (EFs)–based reading intervention on neural circuits supporting EFs and visual attention. Seed-to-voxel functional connectivity analysis was conducted focusing on large-scale attention system brain networks, during an fMRI reading fluency task. Participants were 8- to 12-year-old English-speaking children with dyslexia (n = 43) and typical readers (n = 36) trained on an EFs-based reading training (n = 40) versus math training (n = 39). Training duration was 8 weeks. After the EFs-based reading intervention, children with dyslexia improved their scores in reading rate and visual attention (compared to math intervention). Neurobiologically, children with dyslexia displayed an increase in functional connectivity strength after the intervention between the cingulo-opercular network and occipital and precentral regions. Noteworthy, the functional connectivity indices between these brain regions showed a positive correlation with speed of processing and visual attention scores in both pretest and posttest. The results suggest that reading improvement following an EFs-based reading intervention involves neuroplastic connectivity changes in brain areas related to EFs and primary visual processing in children with dyslexia. Our results highlight the need for training underlying cognitive abilities supporting reading, such as EFs and visual attention, in order to enhance reading abilities in dyslexia.
Gaps in Human Rights Law? Detention and Area-Based Restrictions in the Proposed Border Procedures in the EU
Authors: Wessels Janna 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
With the legislative proposals presented as the New Pact on Migration and Asylum on 23 September 2020, the European Commission sought to overcome the political impasse in reform efforts of the Common European Asylum System. A key element of this legislative package is the broader use of border procedures. The rationale is that by ‘keeping’ certain asylum seekers at the borders or in transit zones, return policies would become more effective. This paper undertakes a legal assessment of the proposed border procedures in light of legal obligations arising from the Human Rights to liberty and freedom movement. It argues that the qualification of asylum seekers’ entry as unauthorised seemingly pushes into a gap in human rights law, allowing for detention and area-based restrictions. However, a reconstruction of the applicable human rights standards shows that the blanket use of such measures is in fact unlawful, such that the proposal will have to be amended in that regard.
Development and implementation of the lung volume reduction pulmonary rehabilitation tool to identify eligibility for lung volume reduction in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease during pulmonary rehabilitation
Authors: Buttery Sara C , Williams Parris J , Brighton Lisa J , Batista Craig , Dewar Amy , Hogg Lauren , Ingram Karen , Korff Gemma , Koulopoulou Maria , Lammin Helen , Maddocks Matthew , McDonnell Lynn , Mehta Bhavin , Meyrick Victoria , Pritchard Lisa , Smith Oliver , Trivedi Puja , Lawson Rod A , Hopkinson Nicholas S 
Published: September 2023

Background Completion of pulmonary rehabilitation is recognised in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) guidelines as a key opportunity to consider systematically whether a respiratory review to assess potential suitability for a lung volume reduction (LVR) procedure might be appropriate. We describe the development of a simple decision-support tool (the LVR-PR tool) to aid clinicians working in pulmonary rehabilitation, to operationalise this process. Methods We took an iterative mixed methods approach, which was partnership-based and involved an initial consensus survey, focus groups and an observational study cohort at multiple pulmonary rehabilitation centres. Results Diagnosis (97%), exercise capacity (84%), breathlessness (78%) and co-morbidities (76%) were acknowledged to be essential items for assessing basic LVR eligibility. Collating prior investigations and assessing patient understanding were considered useful but not essential. Clinician concerns included; streamlining the tool; access to clinical information and investigations; and care needed around introducing LVR therapies to patients in a PR setting. Access to clearer information about LVR procedures, the clinician’s role in considering eligibility and how educational resources should be delivered were identified as important themes from patient group discussions. The LVR-PR tool was considered to be feasible and valid for implementation in a variety of PR services across the UK subject to the provision of appropriate health professional training. Clinicians working in specialist LVR centres across the UK who were not otherwise involved in the development process confirmed the tool’s validity using the content validity index (CVI). Interpretation The LVR-PR tool appears to be an acceptable tool that can be feasibly implemented in PR services subject to good quality educational resources for both patients and healthcare professionals.
Pre-pregnancy obesity is not associated with poor outcomes in fresh transfer in vitro fertilization cycles: a retrospective study
Authors: Tao Ping , Yan Xiaohong , Yao Yan , Wang Zhanxiang , Li Youzhu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The impact of body mass index (BMI) on in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been well acknowledged; however, the reported conclusions are still incongruent. This study aimed to investigate the effect of BMI on IVF embryos and fresh transfer clinical outcomes.

Methods
This retrospective cohort analysis included patients who underwent IVF/ICSI treatment and fresh embryo transfer from 2014 to March 2022. Patients were divided into the underweight group: BMI < 18.5 kg/m2; normal group: 18.5 ≤ BMI < 24 kg/m2; overweight group: 24 ≤ BMI < 28 kg/m2; and obesity group: BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2. A generalized linear model was used to analyze the impact of BMI on each IVF outcome used as a continuous variable.

Results
A total of 3465 IVF/ICSI cycles in the embryo part; and 1698 fresh embryo transplanted cycles from the clinical part were included. Available embryos rate (61.59% vs. 57.32%, p = 0.007) and blastocyst development rates (77.98% vs. 66.27%, p < 0.001) were higher in the obesity group compared to the normal BMI group. Also, the fertilization rate of IVF cycles in the obesity group was significantly decreased vs. normal BMI group (normal: 62.95% vs. 66.63% p = 0.006; abnormal: 5.43% vs. 7.04%, p = 0.037), while there was no difference in ICSI cycles. The clinical outcomes of overweight and obesity groups were comparable to the normal group. The gestational age of the obesity group was lower compared to the normal group (38.08 ± 1.95 vs. 38.95 ± 1.55, p = 0.011). The adjusted OR (AOR) of BMI for the preterm birth rate of singletons was 1.134 [(95% CI 1.037–1.240), p = 0.006]. BMI was significantly associated with live birth rate after excluded the PCOS patients [AOR: 1.042 (95% CI 1.007–1.078), p = 0.018]. In young age (≤ 35 years), clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate were positively correlated with BMI, AOR was 1.038 [95% CI (1.001–1.076), p = 0.045] and 1.037 [95% CI (1.002–1.074) p = 0.038] respectively.

Conclusion
Being overweight and obese was not associated with poor IVF outcomes but could affect blastocyst formation. ICSI could help to avoid low fertilization in obese patients. Also, obesity was associated with increased rates of premature singleton births.
Tumor lysis syndrome in premature infant prompting early resection of a large sacrococcygeal teratoma: a case report
Authors: Dey Aditi , Wyrebek Rita , Torres Loraine , Escoto Danilo , Shakeel Fauzia , Mayer Jennifer 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCTs) are the most common congenital neoplasm and often require resection soon after birth. There are rare reports of cardiac arrest during surgery due to manipulation of the tumor triggering secondary necrosis and hyperkalemia.

Case presentation
This case describes a very preterm infant with a SCT who develops spontaneous preoperative tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). The medical team utilized rasburicase and the patient underwent total gross resection at 40 h of life.

Conclusions
We emphasize the importance of the early recognition and management of tumor lysis syndrome in SCT with rasburicase, aggressive management of hyperkalemia and consideration of early resection of SCTs even in the case of a very premature infant.
Relapse of severe acute malnutrition among children discharged from outpatient therapeutic program in western Ethiopia
Authors: Teshale Endalkachew Befekadu , Nigatu Yakob Desalegn , Delbiso Tefera Darge 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) without complication are treated in the outpatient therapeutic program (OTP) and the program has been reported to be effective. However, relapse post-discharge from the program is poorly defined, and scarcely evaluated across programs and research. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of SAM among children post-discharge from the OTP and to identify factors associated with SAM relapse in Gambella Region, Western Ethiopia.

Methods
We conducted a facility-based cross-sectional study among 208 children aged 6–59 months who have been discharged from the OTP as cured. Baseline data were collected from caregivers using structured questionnaire. Child anthropometry and oedema was measured. The association between SAM relapse and the risk factors were assessed using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results
The prevalence of SAM relapse was 10.1% (95% CI: 5.8–14.0%). The odds of SAM relapse was significantly higher in children with mothers who had no exposure to education and promotion about infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices (OR = 5.7; 95% CI: 1.3–12.6), children who were not fully immunized for their age (OR = 8.0; 95% CI: 3.8–23.4), and children with mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) at discharge of < 12.5 cm (OR = 4.4; 95% CI: 2.1–12.8) than their counterparts.

Conclusions
To reduce SAM relapse, the OTP programs should avoid premature discharge and consider provision of supplementary food for children with low MUAC at discharge. Further, the OTP discharge criteria should consider both the anthropometric indicators – weight-for-height/length z-score (WHZ) and MUAC – and the absence of bilateral pitting oedema irrespective of the anthropometric indicator that is used during admission. Promotion of nutrition education and improving child immunization services and coverage would help reduce SAM relapse.
“Pouring their heart out in Sainsbury’s”: qualitative study of young people’s, parents’ and mental health practitioners’ experiences of adapting to remote online mental health appointments during COVID-19
Authors: Biddle Lucy , Derges Jane , Cliffe Bethany , Gooberman-Hill Rachael , Linton Myles-Jay , Moran Paul , Bould Helen 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
During the COVID-19 pandemic, technologies such as videoconferencing were used to deliver mental health appointments remotely online. For many people, this was a change from previous methods of mental healthcare receipt and delivery. We aimed to explore in-depth how practitioners, young people and parents in the UK experienced this transition.

Methods
We used qualitative methods to collect data, triangulating between free-text online survey data (n = 38), focus groups (n = 5) (3 young adult groups (total n = 11); 2 practitioner groups (total n = 7)), and semi-structured interviews (practitioners n = 8; parents n = 4). Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results
Participants held mixed views about remote appointments, which were encompassed within the five themes of: home as clinic; disrupted therapeutic relationships; difficulties with engagement; uncontained risk; and scope of care provision. While appointments at home could be regarded as more comfortable, naturalistic and accessible, it was also recognised that remoteness compromised practitioner control with consequences for their ability to monitor patient engagement, manage risk and ensure confidentiality when others were present in the home. This could create an additional burden for parents as they tried to facilitate appointments but felt unsupported in this role. Relatedly, remoteness was seen to hinder interpersonal communication, formation of trust, communication of empathy and opportunities to observe body language, all of which were deemed important to building and maintaining effective therapeutic relationships. Despite this, others thought the anonymity of a remote exchange may allow earlier disclosure. There was disagreement as to whether remote provision narrowed or expanded the scope of practice.

Conclusions
While some had positive views of remote mental health appointments, others found them challenging. Findings highlight key areas requiring attention and mitigation in future offerings of remote provision, namely: risk management, parental burden, and problematic engagement.