bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lithospheric Delamination as the Driving Mechanism of Intermediate-depth Seismicity in the Bucaramanga Nest, Colombia
Authors: Pérez-Forero Diego , Koulakov Ivan , Vargas Carlos A. , Gerya Taras , Arifi Nassir Al 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The Bucaramanga nest (BN) is an area of exceptionally strong intermediate-depth seismicity localized in a narrow zone at 150–170 km depth beneath the continental plate in Colombia. To explain the very unusual mantle seismicity cluster in this area, we built a seismic velocity model in the vicinity of BN with the use of local earthquake tomography and developed a numerical hydromechanical model. Our seismic model shows a strong high-velocity anomaly at 130–167 km coinciding with the BN seismicity. The relocated seismicity can be separated in two clusters. We propose that the upper BN cluster at ~ 130 km depth is attributed to dehydration embrittlement, whereas the lower BN cluster at ~ 150 km depth coinciding with the high-velocity body is caused by lithospheric delamination, creating a “drip” that falls down over the subducting oceanic plate, enhancing fluid release from the slab, potentially increasing seismicity.
Seismic signature of an extreme hydrometeorological event
Authors: Picozzi Matteo , Coviello Velio , Palo Mauro , Adirosi Elisa 
Published: August 2023

AbstractFlash floods are a major treat for Mediterranean countries and their frequency is expected to increase in the next years due to the climatic change. Civil protection agencies are called to deal with increasing hydrological risk, but existing hydro-meteorological monitoring networks might be not enough for detecting, tracking, and characterizing rapidly evolving floods produced by severe convective storms. Here, we leverage seismic data from a national monitoring network to characterize the hydrometeorological event that hit central Italy and resulted in a devastating flash flood in September 2022. The spatio-temporal evolution of seismic noise highlights remarkable anomalies that culminate around 6 hours before major flooding. Our results show that seismic noise generated by different, combined processes (rainfall, wind and increasing discharge in the basin headwaters), provides precious information to support hydrological risk management. We foresee seismic approaches to complement well-established procedures to early detect the occurrence of flash floods at regional scale.
An approach for comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment and effective eco design of IoT systems: data-driven modeling of reference flows
Authors: Quisbert-Trujillo Ernesto , Morfouli Panagiota 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
As we approach the limits of our technologies and the number of connected devices grows, scientists put more efforts to estimate and reduce the ecological damage of the Internet of Things. Unfortunately, environmental studies and eco design of IoT systems suffer from a major inconvenience so far: it does not put sensor data in the focus of attention. This paper aims to point out explicitly the essential role of this aspect for modeling reference flows and demonstrate its relevance for agile environmental assessment and sustainable design. Also, it aims to illustrate that such modeling process must happen in a comprehensive way. For this, our work relies on a case study addressing smart metering, and we proceed as follows. Based on available documentation and inspired by certain aspects of different technologies, we imagine the maximal capacities of key components, and we construct an unfavorable data flow scenario to get a rough idea of the reference flow and the long-term impact of our system during its use phase. Results from this procedure are later contrasted with results obtained from a packet traffic analysis, in which local and internet data flow are examined carefully. At the end, we verify the importance of data empirically, and we conclude that the reference flow and the impact contributors of a system could be affected not only by the local data transit but also by the complex interactions between edge devices and cloud resources. All our findings are discussed to produce generic guidelines for sustainable IoT systems.
Inhibitors of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase interfere with neutrophil functions in vitro
Authors: De Bondt Mirre , Renders Janne , de Prado Paloma Petit , Berghmans Nele , Pörtner Noëmie , Vanbrabant Lotte , Duran Gayel , Baeten Paulien , Broux Bieke , Gouwy Mieke , Matthys Patrick , Hellings Niels , Struyf Sofie 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative, autoimmune disease that is still incurable. Nowadays, a variety of new drugs are being developed to prevent excessive inflammation and halt neurodegeneration. Among these are the inhibitors of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK). As this enzyme is indispensable for B cells, it is an appealing therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases. Recognizing the emerging importance of BTK in myeloid cells, we investigated the impact of upcoming BTK inhibitors on neutrophil functions. Although adaptive immunity in MS has been thoroughly studied, unanswered questions about the pathogenesis can be addressed by studying the effects of candidate MS drugs on innate immune cells such as neutrophils, previously overlooked in the MS landscape. In this study, we used three BTK inhibitors (evobrutinib, fenebrutinib and tolebrutinib), currently in phase III clinical trials for MS, and found that they reduce neutrophil activation by the bacterial peptide N-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine and the chemokine interleukin 8/CXCL8. Furthermore, they diminished the production of reactive oxygen species and release of neutrophil extracellular traps. Additionally, the production of CXCL8 and interleukin-1β by neutrophils in response to inflammatory stimuli decreased. Inhibitory effects were not related to toxicity. In fact, BTK inhibitors prolonged neutrophil survival in an inflammatory environment. Finally, migration of neutrophils treated with BTK inhibitors towards CXCL8 was decreased in a Boyden chamber assay, whereas transendothelial migration was unaffected. Collectively, this study provides novel insights into the impact of BTK inhibitors on neutrophil functions, thereby holding important implications for autoimmune or hematological diseases where BTK is crucial.
Radiological Factors Associated with Increased Intramedullary Signal Intensity Based on X-ray and MRI – Implications in our understanding of Degenerative Spondylomyelopathy
Authors: Sial Alisha W. , Sima Stone , Chen Xiaolong , Saulys Chris , Kuan Jeff , Davies Mark , Diwan Ashish D. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Increased intramedullary signal intensity (IISI) on T2 weighted MRI scan (T2WI) in patients with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM) can be a radiological feature of spinal cord damage. However, the association of IISI to degeneration of the spinal column remains unclear in literature. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of IISI and analyze the independent relationship between IISI and cervical degenerative parameters in patients with and without DCM.
Methods
A retrospective review of MRI, X-ray, and radiology data for 144 adult patients with DCM with both cervical MRI and X-ray scans was conducted. A total of 39 patients with IISI was identified. The remaining 105 patients without IISI made up the control group.
Results
IISI was prevalent in 27.1% of patients and most frequent in C6-C7 cervical levels. The likelihood of having IISI was 1.947 (Exp(B) 1.947, 95%CI [1.004–3.776]) times higher in segmental levels with facet joint degeneration. There was an increased likelihood of IISI within the spinal cord with increasing age (Exp(B) 1.034, 95%CI [1.008–1.060]), maximum spinal cord compression (MSCC) (Exp(B) 1.038, 95%CI [1.003–1.075]), rotational angle (Exp(B) 1.082, 95%CI [1.020–1.148]) and posterior herniation width (Exp(B) 1.333, 95%CI [1.017–1.747]) and decreasing Torg-Pavlov ratio (Exp(B) 0.010, 95%CI [0.001–0.068]).
Conclusion
IISI had a prevalence in 27.1% of DCM patients. Increased age, facet joint degeneration, MSCC, rotational angle, posterior herniation width and decreasing Torg-Pavlov angle were found to be independently associated with IISI. Radiological degenerative changes associated with IISI indicate value in the assessment of patients with possible DCM.
Semi-classical physics based model in AlGaN/BGaN based Ultraviolet LED with p-AlGaN layer sandwiched around electron-blocking layer for droop-free efficiency
Authors: G Saranya , M Sivamangai N , J Ajayan , S Sreejith 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This work reports the droop-free efficiency of an Ultraviolet Light Emitting Diode (UV LED) of Multiple Quantum Well (MQW) with an Electron Blocking Layer (EBL) sandwiched with a p-AlGaN layer. In the proposed device structure, the BGaN Quantum Well's thickness and boron content are set at 3 nm and 10%, respectively. The simulation is carried out by using varius physical models such as K.P. model, Auger recombination model, Shcokley-Reed-Hall (SRH) recombination model, and Lorentz model are used to produce the realistic optical performances. Internal Quantum Efficiency, Output Luminous power, and radiative recombination rate are the variables examined in this study. Also, the polarization effect decreases due to the insertion of a thin p-AlGaN layer which in turn reduces electron leakage to the p-type layer while enhancing the efficiency of hole injection via intra-band tunneling. In order to understand the structures of radiative and non-radiative recombination mechanisms, a semi-classical physics-based model is created. It is discovered that the simsulated results and modeled data fit well with each other.
The Clinical Challenges of Diagnosing Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia vs Other Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Daffron Grayson , Ladenika Adetokunbo 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This is a case of stark behavior change in a 59-year-old female intended to highlight the clinical care to be taken in diagnosing early-stage behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia against other primary psychiatric disorders. Frontotemporal dementia is considered to be the second most common dementia in those under the age of 65 behind early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Of frontotemporal dementia variants, the behavioral variant has the highest risk of resembling or being misdiagnosed as another psychiatric disorder in part because of symptomatic crossover. The patient in this case presented initially with assumed symptoms of major depressive disorder with catatonic features; however on deeper analysis a strong argument can be made for early stage frontotemporal dementia. Aspects such as family history of dementia, negative personal history of psychiatric disorder, later age of onset, strict use of diagnostic criteria and signs of a progressive course can all be useful in directing a clinician towards a diagnosis of behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia. Furthermore, the challenges of diagnosing the behavioral variant against other primary psychiatric disorders in the acute care setting will continue to require clinicians to take a step back in regards to patient history and the mental status exam. This case report will hopefully bring light to some of the areas of difficulty for this diagnosis and towards research that has been done to make the diagnosis of behavioral variant Frontotemporal dementia slightly less challenging on clinicians.
Intraneural fibrosis within ilioinguinal nerve in inguinal hernia patients with preoperative pain -It’s the sign of irreversible nerve injury, isn’t it?
Authors: Narita Masato , Moriyoshi Koki , Yamaoka Ryoya , Moriyama Masaaki , Degawa Kanako , Fushitani Masashi , Kojima Hiroya , Suenaga Takahiro , Hiroki Nakanishi , Nishikawa Gen , Nakanishi Yasutaka , Hata Hiroaki 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Preoperative pain is known as the most powerful risk factor for chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP), while its pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate patients with preoperative pain from the pathological perspective and discuss the potential pathogenesis of CPIP in those patients.
Methods
This was a single-institutional retrospective study. The study population was inguinal hernia patients with preoperative pain who underwent open anterior hernia repair for primary inguinal hernia with pragmatic ilioinguinal neurectomy during surgery between March 2021 and March 2023. The primary and secondary outcomes were proportion of collagen deposition and mucus accumulation within ilioinguinal nerve in those patients, respectively, which were evaluated histologically using Image J software.
Results
Forty patients were evaluated. Median value of proportion of intraneural collagen deposition was 38.3 (27.7-95.9) %. These values were positively correlated with the duration of pain (r2=0.468, P<0.001). Median value of proportion of mucus accumulation in ilioinguinal nerve was 50.1 (0-82.0) %. These values had no correlation with any clinicopathological variables.
Conclusions
In the present study population, all patients with preoperative pain had intraneural fibrosis within ilioinguinal nerve, and its degree had a significantly positive correlation with the pain duration. These results suggest that nerve injury may be irreversible and open anterior hernia repair with a planned ilioinguinal neurectomy may be a good option for patients with long-term preoperative pain to prevent persistent pain that being present preoperatively.
Barriers of Adopting Quantum Technology in Blockchain: A Prioritization based Framework
Authors: Alahmari Muteeb 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The advent of quantum technology holds significant transformative potential for blockchain systems, promising new realms of security, speed, and efficiency. However, the lack of clear guidelines for adopting and implementing quantum technology within blockchain presents a critical challenge. This research aims to address this problem, bridging the gap by investigating the essential process areas needing expert attention while integrating quantum technology in the blockchain. To address this study, firstly, we have identified challenging factors of adopting quantum technology in blockchain reported by the existing literature. Secondly, we conducted a questionnaire survey study and get the experts opinions conceding to the criticality of the identified challenges towards adopting quantum technology in blockchain. According to the results of this study lack of adequate expertise, security concerns and regulatory hurdles are the top ranked barriers for considering quantum computing in blockchain technology. Moreover, the result of this study provides a prioritization-based taxonomy that assist the practitioners and researchers to consider the highest ranked barriers on priority.
Impact of Global Health scholarship programs in the Faculty of Medicine at Mbarara University of Science and Technology
Authors: Tusiimire Jonans , Nakiwala Miriam J. , Turigye Brian , Ansiimire Daphine , Kembabazi Annet , Asiimwe Stephen , Ngonzi Joseph 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction:
Since 2011, the Faculty of Medicine at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has received several scholarship awards to students in priority health science-related programs. The scholarships are intended to build capacity in health service delivery at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH) and the neighboring communities. We conducted an impact evaluation of the scholarship program ten years since the first cohort of scholars was admitted.
Methods
A mixed methods cross-sectional design was employed. Past and present scholars were requested to complete an extensive online survey assessing demographics, academic accomplishments, employment status, perceived impacts, and career satisfaction. Qualitative data on scholars’ impacts were collected using open-ended questions in the online tool. For each question, the data were analyzed by deductive thematic content analysis.
Results
Fifty (50) scholars representing 32.5% responded, of whom 36 (72%) were alumni. Most of the scholars were male (n = 30; 60%). Master of Medicine (n = 29; 58%) and Master of Nursing Science (n = 20; 40%) had the majority of respondents. The scholarship schemes included First Mile (n = 29; 58%), Kayanja (n = 12; 24%), Paiko (n = 5; 10%) and Seed (n = 4; 8%). The majority of the scholarships supported both tuition and research fees (n = 41; 82%), the rest being partial. Career advancement was undertaken by 8 (16%) of the scholars in the form of fellowships (n = 3; 6%), other masters (n = 3; 6%) and PhDs (n = 3; 6%), with some students having attained a combination of these. All scholars belonged to at least one health professional association. Over 88% (n = 32) of the alumni and 28% (n = 4) of the students were employed. The majority of those employed were in the public sector (n = 24; 66.7%), mainly the health sector (n = 18; 50%), academia (n = 14; 38.9) or both (n = 4; 11.1%). All the scholars in employment were based in Uganda. High levels of career satisfaction and self-perception of positive impact were reported. The scholars generally perceived that both the scholarship and the educational program were relevant for their career advancement and had enabled them to make a positive impact in healthcare at the community level.
Conclusions
MUST scholars reported valuable impacts on their communities via the provision of better-quality healthcare post-training. This reaffirms the value of targeted specialized training of health workers through scholarships and program development and the need for continued scholarship support for future scholars. The findings should act as an impetus to inform relevant improvements and standardization of the scholarship program and educational content by all stakeholders.
Endogenous melatonin involved in plant salt response by impacting on auxin signaling
Authors: Miao Rongqing , Li Zhiqi , Yuan Yue , Yan Xiufeng , Pang Qiuying , Zhang Aiqin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Melatonin is a pleiotropic signaling molecule, which besides being involved in various growth and developmental processes and mediates environmental stress responses, but whether and how endogenous melatonin involved in salt response was still unknown. Here, we elucidated the involvement of endogenous melatonin in salt response by the investigation on the loss-of-function mutants of melatonin biosynthesis genes SNAT1 and SNAT2. We found the double mutant snat1snat2 with attenuated melatonin synthesis exhibited salt sensitivity, manifesting by unhealthy plant growth, ion imbalance and ROS accumulation under salt stress. Transcriptomic profiles of snat1snat2showed the expression of large number of salt-responsive genes were affected by SNAT defect, and these genes were closely related to the synthesis of auxin and several signaling pathways. In addition, the salt sensitive growth phenotype of snat1snat2 was alleviated by applying exogenous auxin. Our results show that endogenous melatonin is required for plant salt tolerance, which is correlated with its large activity in mediating auxin signaling.
Experimental and Digital Investigations of Heterogeneity in Lower Cretaceous Carbonate Reservoir using Fractal and Multifractal Concepts
Authors: Jouini Mohamed Soufiane , Alabere Abdulquadri O. , Alsuwaidi Mohammad , Morad Sadoon , Bouchaala Fateh , Al-Jallad Osama A. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Characterization and prediction of reservoir heterogeneity are crucial for hydrocarbon production. This study applies the multifractal theory using both numerical and experimental data to characterize quantitatively the heterogeneity of pore structures in Lower Cretaceous limestone reservoir from the United Arab Emirates. Fractal dimensions calculated from digital images showed good correlation (R2 = +0.69) with experimental high-pressure mercury injection (HPMI) measurements. Moreover, both experimental and numerical fractal dimensions correlate well with experimental HPMI porosity measurements. Multifractal parameters such as the non-uniformity degree of the pore structures Δα, the asymmetry degree in the vertical axis Δf(α), the concentration of pore size distribution α0 and the asymmetry degree in the horizontal axis Rd estimated from digital and experimental data correlated well and revealed ability to quantitatively describe samples heterogeneity. The ranges of digital and experimental multifractal parameters provided the means to differentiate between homogeneous and heterogeneous samples.
Evolutionary Patterns and Microscopic Mechanisms of Strength in Mine Tailings Backfilled with Waste Glass
Authors: Deng Daiqiang , Gao Yu , Chen Zimin ,   ye wangye0627
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The present study focuses on a fluorite mine as the research subject, utilizing coarse tailings, fine tailings, cement substitute-curing agent, and recycled waste glass as the primary raw materials. It investigates the changes in compressive strength of coarse tailing with varying sand- binder ratios and glass content at 3-day, 7-day, and 28-day intervals when the filling slurry concentration is set at 77% and the ratio of coarse tailings to fine tailings is maintained at 2:1. The findings indicate that there is minimal impact on the compressive strength of test blocks when using a sand binder ratio of 4:1 and a glass sand content below 10%. However, once the glass sand content exceeds 10%, a significant decline in compressive strength occurs. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images reveal ettringite crystal formation in test blocks with both 0% and 25% glass sand content due to high levels of Na₂O in the glass sand. This leads to internal expansion within test blocks resulting in reduced strength. Notably, when using a sand-binder ratio of 8:1 along with a glass sand content of 25%, early strength characteristics are observed for test blocks. Furthermore, incorporating glass sand has little influence on late-stage strength for backfill when employing either an8:1 or 12:1 sand-binder ratio. Based on this experiment conducted under conditions including mass concentration of 77%, the optimal waste-glass-to-mine-tailings-filling-sand-binder-ratio is determined as 8:1with a corresponding glass content of 25%.
Optimization of Extraction-Free Protocols for SARS-CoV-2 Detection using a Commercial rRT-PCR Assay
Authors: Kang Minhee , Jeong Eunjung , Kim Ji-Yeon , Yun Sun Ae , Jang Mi-Ae , Jang Ja-Hyun , Kim Tae Yeul , Huh Hee Jae , Lee Nam Yong 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The global combat against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has primarily focused on developing innovative nucleic acid-based molecular diagnostic techniques and streamlining associated protocols. In this study, we investigated extraction-free approaches to simplify the process and enhance efficiency. We validated the effectiveness of extraction-free protocols incorporating heat treatment and sample dilution, along with Proteinase K and RNase inhibitors, to improve nucleic acid detection. The combination of sample dilution, heat treatment, and addition of Proteinase K and RNase inhibitors showed the highest sensitivity (84.26%) with a mean increase in cycle threshold (Ct) value of + 3.8. The combination of sample dilution and heat treatment exhibited a sensitivity of 79.63%, which was a significant improvement of 38% compared to the use of heat treatment alone. The incorporation of proteinase K and RNase inhibitors in conjunction with sample dilution and heat treatment contributed to only a marginal improvement and did not yield statistically significant differences. Our study revealed that sample dilution significantly affected SARS-CoV-2 detection, and sample conditions played a crucial role in the efficiency of extraction-free methods. These findings will contribute to streamlining diagnostic testing, making it more accessible and cost-effective during the COVID-19 pandemics.