bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Establishment and range expansion of invasive Cactoblastis cactorum (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae: Phycitinae) in Texas
Authors: Morrison Colin R. , Plowes Robert M. , Springer Laura E. , Sanchez-Peña Sergio , Gilbert Lawrence E. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Invasive species are a leading cause of global biodiversity decline. Larvae of the cactus moth Cactoblastis cactorum Berg (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae: Phycitinae) consume prickly pear cactus species (Opuntia; Cactaceae) in its native South American range. High host specificity made C. cactorum an appropriate biological control agent of Opuntia species, which have become invasive weeds around the world. This biological control program was successful. Ironically, the success of cactus weed biological control facilitated a series of events which led to C. cactorum invasion of North America where Opuntia diversity is tremendous. In 2017, C. cactorum established along the southeast Texas coast. In 2020, we began monitoring C. cactorum dispersal towards south and south-west Texas with cactus moth pheromone traps. Our objectives were to document the extent of the invasion and calculate dispersal rates towards commercial Opuntia-growing regions in Mexico. There are four overlapping moth flight peaks in Texas. Between 2017 and 2022, the C. cactorum populations invaded over 27,000 km2 in south-east and south-central Texas at a dispersal rate up to 47 km year. Since 2022, this dispersal rate slowed as the moth invasion front came into contact with the Tamaulipan thornscrub region of south Texas where Opuntia density is high and native cactus moth species are attacked by a diverse assemblage of parasitoids. We present data on the density of native cactus moth species in Texas which shows that their density increases west and south-west of the area currently occupied by C. cactorum. These data suggest that apparent competition may be occuring between C. cactorum and native cactus moth species via shared parasitoids. This hypothesis is not mutually exclusive of other biological barriers that may contribute to explaining why the Texas C. cactorum dispersal rate has slowed significantly. We conclude with a discussion about how to leverage these data to support future deployment of C. cactorum biological control agents in Texas.
Exploring visible light communication for real-time indoor metaverse connectivity
Authors: Singh Anil Kumar , Pandey Rohitashwa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This paper investigates the use of Visible Light Communication (VLC) technology for indoor communication systems within the context of Metaverse applications. As immersive virtual environments continue to expand, the demand for high-speed, low-latency, and energy-efficient communication technologies becomes crucial. VLC, leveraging visible light from LED lamps to transmit data, presents a promising alternative to conventional radio frequency-based communication methods. In this case study, we explore the potential of VLC to support the real-time, interactive, and data-intensive requirements of indoor Metaverse applications, such as virtual reality (VR) gaming, remote collaboration, and augmented reality (AR) experiences. The study includes the design and implementation of a VLC-based communication system, analyzing its performance in terms of data rate, and BER in a typical indoor Metaverse scenario. Simulation results and experimental findings demonstrate that VLC can provide robust, high-bandwidth communication with lower interference, positioning it as a viable solution for future Metaverse infrastructure.
Recurrent opportunistic infections in a HIV-negative patient with combined C6 and NFKB1 mutations: A case report, pedigree analysis, and literature review
Authors: Zheng Yamei , Guan Liwen , Li Jiao , Fu Yihui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Recurrent opportunistic infections are particularly common in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, these opportunistic infections have also been reported in HIV-negative patients, especially those with primary immunodeficiency disorder (PID), a condition that involves a large heterogeneous group of disorders arising from defects in immune system development and/or function.

Case
Here, we report a very rare case of recurrent opportunistic infections in a non-HIV-infected patient combined with mutations in complement component C6 and nuclear factor kB subunit 1 (NFKB1). The patient first developed Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, followed by cytomegalovirus esophagitis. Reduced CD4+ T and B lymphocyte counts, hypogammaglobulinemia were observed. The patient was HIV negative, and congenital immunodeficiency-related genes indicated combined C6 and
NFKB1
mutations. Gene detection was undertaken with blood samples from the patient’s parents and younger brother. None of the family members possessed both gene mutations, suggesting that the simultaneous mutations of C6 and NFKB1 caused primary immunodeficiency in the patient and resulted in recurrent opportunistic infections. In addition, we performed a review of the relevant literature to assess the clinical manifestations of C6 and
NFKB1
mutations.

Conclusion
A diagnosis of PID should be suspected in patients with recurrent opportunistic infections, decreased CD4+ T and B lymphocyte, and hypoimmunoglobulinemia when secondary immunodeficiency factors can be excluded. In addition, genetic testing of family members should be performed, which may lead to the discovery of novel familial gene mutations.
Predictive value of plasma sB7-H3 and YKL-40 in pediatric refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Zhao QiuMin , Ji ShiYan , Jiang HaiPing , Lu DongMing , Qian LiFen , Zhang JingWen , Cui Yue , Lin Wei , Ge HaoYing , Gu Meng 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective
This study investigated the clinical significance of plasma sB7-H3 and YKL-40 levels in children with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP).

Methods
A total of 182 RMPP patients (103 general Mycoplasma pneumoniae patients and 79 RMPP patients) were included. sB7-H3, YKL-40, and other inflammatory factors were measured. Independent factors associated with the early diagnosis of RMPP were determined. The value of each independent risk factor in predicting RMPP was evaluated.

Results
The RMPP group reported significantly longer hospital stays and total fever durations. Levels of C-reactive protein, D-dimer, IL-13, IL-6/-10, sB7-H3, and YKL-40 were higher in the RMPP group. sB7-H3 was positively correlated with IL-13, IL-6, and IL-4, whereas YKL-40 was positively correlated with all of the above indicators (IL-5 was also included). sB7-H3 and YKL-40 were independent risk factors for RMPP. The critical values for sB7-H3 and YKL-40 were 3.525 and 313.3 ng/mL, respectively. sB7-H3 and YKL-40 had areas under the curve of 0.734 and 0.859, respectively. YKL-40 had high sensitivity and specificity of 88.61 and 87.38%, respectively. Both indicators had predictive value, YKL-40 had the highest predictive ability for RMPP.

Conclusion
Detection of sB7-H3 and YKL-40 levels in the plasma may be useful in diagnosing RMPP early in the disease process.
Photon antibunching in single-molecule vibrational sum-frequency generation
Authors: Moradi Kalarde Fatemeh , Ciccarello Francesco , Sánchez Muñoz Carlos , Feist Johannes , Galland Christophe 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Sum-frequency generation (SFG) enables the coherent upconversion of electromagnetic signals and plays a significant role in mid-infrared vibrational spectroscopy for molecular analysis. Recent research indicates that plasmonic nanocavities, which confine light to extremely small volumes, can facilitate the detection of vibrational SFG signals from individual molecules by leveraging surface-enhanced Raman scattering combined with mid-infrared laser excitation. In this article, we compute the degree of second order coherence (g
(2)(0)) of the upconverted mid-infrared field under realistic parameters and accounting for the anharmonic potential that characterizes vibrational modes of individual molecules. On the one hand, we delineate the regime in which the device should operate in order to preserve the second-order coherence of the mid-infrared source, as required in quantum applications. On the other hand, we show that an anharmonic molecular potential can lead to antibunching of the upconverted photons under coherent, Poisson-distributed mid-infrared and visible drives. Our results therefore open a path toward bright and tunable source of indistinguishable single photons by leveraging “vibrational blockade” in a resonantly and parametrically driven molecule, without the need for strong light-matter coupling.
Cutting-edge metal-organic frameworks: revolutionizing the adsorptive removal of pharmaceutical contaminants from water
Authors: Abbas Samra , Ahmad Khalil , Naseem Khalida , Kashif Muhammad , Majeed Hammad , Qureshi Khizar , Rehman Shah Habib U. , Ahmad Irfan , Khalid Aisha , Awais Sophia , Ashfaq Muhammad 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Water is a basic unit for survival of living creature and over the past few years, increased industrialization and urbanization caused a huge contamination of natural water resources. Major water contaminants are pharmacological-wastes, especially antibiotics from hospitals and pharmaceutical industries which causes water pollution. Pharmacological contaminants elimination from ecosystem is very critical environmental challenge because they are persistent and cause potential health hazards. Owing to high surface area, tunable-porosity, and versatile functionality of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), and their composites have emerged as promising materials for water purification. Various antibiotics including amoxicillin, doxycycline, levofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin are successfully removed from wastewater using MOFs and composites, which purifies the water by adsorption-mechanism. This study reviews the advanced progressions in the application of MOF-based composites and MOFs for the adsorption of pharmaceutical pollutants. Additionally, plant-based MOFs have been explored for their eco-friendly and cost-effective potential in pharmaceutical pollutant removal. Despite these advancements, challenges such as the scalability of MOF synthesis, stability under operational conditions, and potential toxicity need to be addressed for their commercial application. Future research should focus on optimizing the synthesis processes, enhancing the recyclability of MOFs, and conducting long-term environmental-impact assessments to ensure sustainable and effective water treatment solutions.
Investigation of the effect of Si content on the structural, mechanical, and tribological properties of TiAlN/AlSi protective multilayers
Authors: Lekoui Fouaz , Amrani Rachid , Henni Laid , Filali Walid , Garoudja Elyes , Ouchabane Mohammed , Oussalah Slimane , Hassani Salim 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Titanium aluminum nitride and aluminum silicon alloys (TiAlN/AlSi) or for simplicity (TAN/AS) bilayer system were deposited on glass and piston aluminum substrates by following three steps. First, AlSi films realized by thermal evaporation with different Si content (7, 10, 13, 22) %. Then, TiAl films were deposited on AlSi layers using a reactive DC magnetron sputtering system, and finally the realization of TAN/AS multilayers were done by nitriding via Direct Current Plasma Nitriding (DCPN) in a custom setup, with pure nitrogen gas. For each sample, the structural properties like phase’s formation and vibration modes were investigated by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy, while AFM microscopy investigated surface topography. The mechanical and tribological properties in terms of hardness and friction coefficient were determined using the nanoindentation technique and tribometer. It has been found that all the coatings TAN/AS have crystalline structures with the presence of TiAlN, TiN, AlN, TiAl, and α-Al phases. Raman spectroscopy reveals the appearance of TO/LO, 2O, and 2TO/LO modes for all layers. AFM images show that the coatings have low roughness, Ra values decrease from 17.3 nm for 7 % Si to 5.5 nm for 13 % Si and increases to 9.9 nm at 22 % Si. The grain size exhibits a reversed behavior compared to that of roughness. The hardness and Young modulus reach their optimum values at 13 % Si with no respect to Hall–Petch law. The friction coefficient of TAN/AS coatings decreases with Si content and reaches its lowest value (<0.1) at 22 % Si as a potential protective layer.
Nunalleq Digital Museum: multi-vocal narration of a Yup'ik past
Authors: Hillerdal Charlotta , Watterson Alice , Strunk Lonny Alaskuk , Cleveland Jaqueline Nalikutaar , Anderson John 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Digital technology facilitates remote access to archaeological collections and offers an accessible platform for knowledge sharing and innovative storytelling. Here, the authors present a newly developed online museum resource co-curated by archaeologists and the descendant community in Quinhagak, Alaska.
Long Duration Load Carriage Performance Is Associated With Army Combat Fitness Test Scores and Fat-Free Mass
Authors: Sax van der Weyden Megan , Merrigan Justin J. , Martin Joel 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Sax van der Weyden, M, Merrigan, JJ, and Martin, J. Long duration load carriage performance is associated with Army Combat Fitness Test scores and fat free mass. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—A common occupational task for the military is carrying heavy loads for long periods of time. The US Army has set a time standard of 3 hours to complete a 19.31-km march with a 15.9-kg ruck sack for combat arms training and specialty schools. The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics associated with 19.31-km foot march completion rates in Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Cadets. Demographics, anthropometrics/body composition, Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) scores, and vertical countermovement jump (CMJ) data were collected on 65 ROTC cadets who conducted a 19.31-km foot march. Independent t tests and Mann-Whitney U tests compared variables between those who did and did not finish the foot march in less than 3 hours. Logistic regressions were used to calculate the odds of completing the foot march using military experience, fat-free mass, ACFT, and CMJ outcomes. Cadets who met the 3 hours standard had lower body fat percent, greater fat-free mass, higher ACFT scores, and higher CMJs than those who did not. In addition, for every one point increase in ACFT score and 1-kg increase in fat-free mass, a cadet's chances of finishing the foot march increased by 6.1 and 24%, respectively. When analyzing ACFT events separately, 2-mile run was the only significant variable, and for every 1 point increase in 2-mile run score, a cadet's chances of finishing the foot march increased by 9%. Thus, aspiring and current soldiers should train to improve aerobic fitness and build muscle mass in preparation for load carriage requirements.
Rhythmic Exercises Before Basketball Training: A Study on Motor Skills, Static Balance, and Reaction Speed in School-Aged Children
Authors: Racil Ghazi , Padulo Johnny , Trabelsi Yassine , Frizziero Antonio , Russo Luca , Migliaccio Gian Mario 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Racil, G, Padulo, J, Trabelsi, Y, Frizziero, A, Russo, L, and Migliaccio, GM. Rhythmic exercises before basketball training: A study on motor skills, static balance, and reaction speed in school-aged children. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of combining rhythmic exercises with basketball training on the improvement of basic motor and physical skills in children. Thirty-four female subjects, all from the same secondary school and aged 12 ± 0.7 years, participated in a 6-week training program (3 times per week). They were randomly divided into 3 groups: one group practiced rhythmic exercises in combination with basketball training (R-BT, n = 12), another group practiced basketball only (BT, n = 11), and a control group (CON, n = 11). The subjects underwent assessments that included regular and irregular rhythmic exercises, flexibility, coordination, and static balance. After the intervention, all groups showed improvements in their motor skills (MS) when they followed a regular rhythm. The R-BT group showed significantly higher performance in hopping and jumping from preintervention to postintervention [p = 0.003, effect size (ES) = 0.67 and p = 0.005, ES = 0.64, respectively] and differed significantly from the other 2 groups (p < 0.01). In addition, the R-BT group showed a greater improvement in the implementation of irregular rhythms (p < 0.001) and differed significantly from the other groups in all parameters (p < 0.01). The Stork Stand Balance Test improved in the R-BT group and outperformed the other 2 groups, whereas the Alternate-Hand Wall-Toss Test improved in both the R-BT and the BT groups compared with the control group, indicating better coordination. In summary, basketball training preceded by a regular rhythm can lead to greater improvement in MS, resulting in improved coordination and leg stability. These results could be considered crucial for young school-age children who play basketball.
Wrist Wraps Do Not Affect Barbell Bench Press Muscular Strength, Power, or Endurance in Resistance-Trained Men and Women
Authors: Harris Dillon R. , Harris Dakota R. , Cardaci Thomas D. , Cintineo Harry P. , Funderburk Leslee K. , Machek Steven B. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Harris, DR, Harris, DR, Cardaci, TD, Cintineo, HP, Funderburk, LK, and Machek, SB. Wrist wraps do not impact barbell bench press muscular strength, power, or endurance in resistance-trained men and women. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—Although wrist wraps have become increasingly prevalent in both competitive and recreational demographics to improve upper-body strength, their posited ability to augment bench press performance by enhanced wrist stability still remains underinvestigated. Furthermore, no data exist determining the efficacy of varying wrap styles on bench-specific muscular strength and associated power, and quantitative and subjective differences between sexes. Eighteen resistance-trained male and female subjects (9M/9F; 24 ± 4 years; 176 ± 33 cm; 80 ± 15 kg) visited the laboratory on 3 separate occasions in randomized, crossover, and counterbalanced design to wear either a flexible wrist wrap (FW), stiff wrap (SW), or an unwrapped/no-wrap control (NW) condition. All subjects underwent a bench press one-repetition maximum (1RM) test and linear position transducer-derived power and velocity assessments. Furthermore, subjective stability (SS) and discomfort (SD) were determined promptly following 1RM attempts. Analyses failed to detect any main condition or interaction effects for bench press 1RM; however, a statistically significant main sex effect was observed (p < 0.001;

= 0.597) favoring male subjects relative to female subjects. Neither power nor velocity measurements revealed any significant main condition or sex effects, nor any interactions. Nonparametric assessments further revealed significant wrist wrap condition effects for both SS and SD (p < 0.001 in both cases), whereby NW was statistically more comfortable (p < 0.001) than either wrap condition, without any difference between FW and SW (p > 0.05). Although wrist wraps did not significantly alter bench press-specific strength and power, subjects nonetheless perceived wrist wraps as subjectively more stable irrespective of increased discomfort.
The Impact of Service Robot Communication Style on Consumers’ Continued Willingness to Use
Authors: Chen Jinsong , Zhang Yuexin , Wang Luona 
Published: January 2025

Integrating service robots has transformed service interactions, with their communication behaviors crucial in consumer engagement and satisfaction. Yet, the influence of their communication styles on consumer attitudes and behaviors is understudied. Utilizing the SOR theory, this study investigates how the communication styles of service robots (social-oriented vs. task-oriented) affect consumer willingness for continued use, through situational experiments and questionnaires. The study finds that service robots with a social-oriented communication style are more likely to enhance consumer willingness to continue usage, with positive emotions mediating this relationship. Additionally, the service context moderates the impact of communication style on these positive emotions. This study expands the application of communication style effects to human-robot interactions, offering new insights into service robots’ design and effective communication.
Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Health Care Utilization in Pediatric Appendicitis
Authors: Ciuchta Jennifer L. , Anosike Brenda I. , Silver Alyssa H. , Herold Betsy C. 
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES
Limited data exist on the role neighborhood-level social determinants of health (SDOH) play in health care utilization in pediatric patients with common, nonelective surgical conditions. We aimed to test the hypothesis that lower neighborhood-level SDOH are associated with increased health care utilization in pediatric acute uncomplicated appendicitis (AUA) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS
This retrospective cohort study included patients aged younger than 19 years, hospitalized through emergency departments, and diagnosed with AUA. Discharge data from January 1, 2017, through February 28, 2022, were obtained from 28 hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System database. Childhood Opportunity Index (COI) was used as an estimate of neighborhood-level SDOH. Logistic regression with generalized estimating equations assessed for association of COI level with prolonged length of stay (PLOS, defined as ≥2 SD above mean LOS) and/or a related 30-day return visit.

RESULTS
We identified 37 670 children with AUA. We found that 2678 (7.1%) had PLOS, 1340 (3.6%) had related 30-day return visits, and 241 (0.6%) had both outcomes. After adjusting for sex, age, overweight/obesity, and pre–/intra–COVID-19 pandemic time frames, children with very low COI levels were 70% more likely to have PLOS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.70; CI, 1.2–2.37), 27% more likely to have related 30-day return visits (aOR, 1.27; CI, 1.04–1.53), and 64% more likely to have both (aOR, 1.64; CI, 1.11–2.44) compared with those with a very high COI level.

CONCLUSIONS
In pediatric patients presenting with AUA, a very low COI level was associated with increased health care utilization. Further research is needed to identify contributing factors and develop strategies to mitigate disparities.