bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Short text classification approach to identify child sexual exploitation material
Authors: Al-Nabki MHD Wesam , Fidalgo Eduardo , Alegre Enrique , Alaiz-Rodriguez Rocio 
Published: September 2023

AbstractProducing or sharing Child Sexual Exploitation Material (CSEM) is a severe crime that Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) fight daily. When the LEA seizes a computer from a potential producer or consumer of the CSEM, it analyzes the storage devices of the suspect looking for evidence. Manual inspection of CSEM is time-consuming given the limited time available for Spanish police to use a search warrant. Our approach to speeding up the identification of CSEM-related files is to analyze only the file names and their absolute paths rather than their content. The main challenge lies in handling short and sparse texts that are deliberately distorted by file owners using obfuscated words and user-defined naming patterns. We present two approaches to CSEM identification. The first employs two independent classifiers, one for the file name and the other for the file path, and their outputs are then combined. Conversely, the second approach uses only the file name classifier to iterate over an absolute path. Both operate at the character n-gram level, whereas novel binary and orthographic features are presented to enrich the text representation. We benchmarked six classification models based on machine learning and convolutional neural networks. The proposed classifier has an F1 score of 0.988, which can be a promising tool for LEAs.
Meta-learning for transformer-based prediction of potent compounds
Authors: Chen Hengwei , Bajorath Jürgen 
Published: September 2023

AbstractFor many machine learning applications in drug discovery, only limited amounts of training data are available. This typically applies to compound design and activity prediction and often restricts machine learning, especially deep learning. For low-data applications, specialized learning strategies can be considered to limit required training data. Among these is meta-learning that attempts to enable learning in low-data regimes by combining outputs of different models and utilizing meta-data from these predictions. However, in drug discovery settings, meta-learning is still in its infancy. In this study, we have explored meta-learning for the prediction of potent compounds via generative design using transformer models. For different activity classes, meta-learning models were derived to predict highly potent compounds from weakly potent templates in the presence of varying amounts of fine-tuning data and compared to other transformers developed for this task. Meta-learning consistently led to statistically significant improvements in model performance, in particular, when fine-tuning data were limited. Moreover, meta-learning models generated target compounds with higher potency and larger potency differences between templates and targets than other transformers, indicating their potential for low-data compound design.
Multilevel analysis of factors associated with untreated diarrhea among under five children in Ethiopia using Ethiopian demographic and health survey
Authors: Alemu Tewodros Getaneh , Fentie Elsa Awoke , Asmamaw Desale Bihonegn , Shewarega Ever Siyoum , Negash Wubshet Debebe , Eshetu Habitu Birhan , Belay Daniel Gashaneh , Aragaw Fantu Mamo , Fetene Samrawit Mihret , Teklu Rediet Eristu 
Published: September 2023

AbstractDiarrhea refers to the abrupt onset of three or more loose or liquid stools per day. It is the second leading cause of death in infants worldwide. It is an endemic disease and continues to be a serious threat to children in Ethiopia. Despite being a condition that may be prevented, diarrhea can have a negative impact on a child's health. Also, studies have not been able to explore the role of socio-economic characteristics in hindering the treatment. Therefore, this study aimed to explore socio-economic factors that influence treatment of childhood diarrhea. Secondary data analysis was conducted based on the demographic and health surveys data conducted in Ethiopia. A total weighted sample of 1227 under-five children was included for this study. Mixed-effect binary logistic regression analysis was done to identify associated factors of untreated diarrhea. Adjusted Odds Ratio with 95% CI was used to declare the strength and significance of the association. Prevalence of untreated diarrhea among under five children in Ethiopia was 57.32% (95% CI 54.52–60.06%). In the mixed-effect analysis; Children aged 6–11, 12–23, and 24–35 (AOR 0.384, 95% CI 0.187–0.789), 71% (AOR 0.29, 95% CI 0.149–0.596), and 51% (AOR 0.49, 95% CI 0.238–0.995). Children from family number six and above (AOR 1.635, 95% CI 1.102–2.426). Children from middle wealth of family (AOR 1.886, 95% CI 1.170–3.3040). Children from a community with high level of uneducated (AOR 2.78, 95% CI 1.065–3.442) were significantly associated with untreated diarrhea. The prevalence of untreated diarrhea among under-five children in Ethiopia is high. Age of child, family number, household wealth, and community-level educational status were significantly associated with untreated diarrhea among under-five children in Ethiopia. Hence, increasing community educational status, boosting the economic status of the community, and family planning for the community should get due attention.
MWCNTs dispersion adopting GA and its application towards copper tailings-based cementitious materials
Authors: Xiang Bingzhi , Cheng Ruifeng , Zhu Jielu , Zhou Yong , Peng Xiaoying , Song Junwei , Wu Junhong 
Published: September 2023

AbstractHydrophobic carbon nanotubes are hardly to disperse in water and prone to agglomerate when poured with Copper Tailing-Based Cementitious Material (CTCM). Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) + Arabic Gum (GA) dispersions were prepared by a novel method of synergistic optimization of concentration, controlling low-frequency ultrasonic time and setting the ambient temperature with non-toxic anionic surfactant GA as surfactant. The results of UV–Vis spectroscopy showed that the high stability MWCNTs + GA dispersion with low aggregation area (< 1.2%) and low aggregation beam size (< 219 nm) have been prepared by using 1.7 mmol/l GA. The effects of highly stable MWCNTs dispersion on the mechanical properties, microstructure and durability of CTCM were studied. The 28 days compressive strength increased by 21.5%, and the flexural strength increased by 20.5%, almost reaching the mechanical level of the control group. The results of SEM, XRD and EDS showed that GA significantly enhanced the dispersion of MWCNT in aqueous solution at a suitable concentration (mass ratio of GA:CNTs = 1:1). The microstructure of the prepared CTCM by high stability MWCNTs dispersion was optimized obviously, and the mechanical properties and durability were improved significantly. This method solves the dual problem of MWCNTs not being fully dispersed in aqueous solution and being easily re-agglomerated in cementitious materials, as well as finding a breakthrough for the low cost and industrialization of tailings cement-based composite cementitious materials.
Purification and characterization of cysteine protease of Sarcocystis fusiformis from infected Egyptian water buffaloes
Authors: Barakat Amal Z. , Abdel-Aty Azza M. , Ibrahim Marwa K. , Salah Hala A. , Hegazy Usama M. , Azouz Rasha A. M. , Bassuiny Roqaya I. , Shaapan Raafat M. , Mohamed Saleh A. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractSarcocystisspp. infects water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) causing sarcocystosis. In the present study,Sarcocystis fusiformiswas recognized in Egyptian water buffaloes based on histological observation and molecular analysis of internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1),18S ribosomalRNA (18S rRNA) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX-1) gene fragments. Chemotherapy and vaccines againstSarcocystisspp. could potentially target proteases because they may play a crucial role in the infection. Cysteine proteases are multifunctional enzymes involved in vital metabolic processes. However, the involvement of proteases inS. fusiforminfection has not yet been characterized. Here, the purification and study on some biochemical properties of protease isolated from cysts ofS. fusiformwere carried out. Protease with a molecular weight of 100 kDa was purified. LC–MS/MS analyzed the protein sequence of purified protease and the data suggested that the enzyme might be related to the cysteine protease. The purified protease exhibited maximum activity at pH 6 and a temperature of 50 °C. The Michaelis–Menten constant (Km), the maximum velocity (Vmax), and the turnover number (Kcat) were determined. The complete inhibition effect of cysteine inhibitors indicated that the purified enzyme is a cysteine protease. The results suggested thatS. fusiformproteolytic enzyme may be necessary for parasite survival in water buffaloes by digesting host tissues. Therefore, cysteine protease could be a suitable target for vaccinations.
Identification and validation of ferroptosis-related biomarkers and the related pathogenesis in precancerous lesions of gastric cancer
Authors: Kuang Yuhui , Yang Kuo , Meng Lingkai , Mao Yijia , Xu Fangbiao , Liu Huayi 
Published: September 2023

AbstractUsing advanced bioinformatics techniques, we conducted an analysis of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in precancerous lesions of gastric cancer (PLGC). We also investigated their connection to immune cell infiltration and diagnostic value, ultimately identifying new molecular targets that could be used for PLGC patient treatment. The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and FerrDb V2 databases were used to identify FRGs. These genes were analysed via ClueGO pathways and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, as well as single-cell dataset GSE134520 analysis. A machine learning model was applied to identify hub genes associated with ferroptosis in PLGC patients. Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was conducted to verify the diagnostic efficacy of these genes, and a PLGC diagnosis model nomogram was established based on hub genes. R software was utilized to conduct functional, pathway, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) on the identified diagnostic genes. Hub gene expression levels and survival times in gastric cancer were analysed using online databases to determine the prognostic value of these genes. MCPcounter and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) algorithms were used to investigate the correlation between hub genes and immune cells. Finally, noncoding RNA regulatory mechanisms and transcription factor regulatory networks for hub genes were mapped using multiple databases. Eventually, we identified 23 ferroptosis-related genes in PLGC. Enrichment analyses showed that ferroptosis-related genes were closely associated with iron uptake and transport and ferroptosis in the development of PLGC. After differential analysis using machine learning algorithms, we identified four hub genes in PLGC patients, including MYB, CYB5R1, LIFR and DPP4. Consequently, we established a ferroptosis diagnosis model nomogram. GSVA and GSEA mutual verification analysis helped uncover potential regulatory mechanisms of hub genes. MCPcounter and ssGSEA analysed immune infiltration in the disease and indicated that B cells and parainflammation played an important role in disease progression. Finally, we constructed noncoding RNA regulatory networks and transcription factor regulatory networks. Our study identified ferroptosis-related diagnostic genes and therapeutic targets for PLGC, providing novel insights and a theoretical foundation for research into the molecular mechanisms, clinical diagnosis, and treatment of this disease.
Study on anaerobic phosphorus release from pig manure and phosphorus recovery by vivianite method
Authors: Chen Tengshu , Song Xingfu , Xing Mengyao 
Published: September 2023

AbstractIn this study, pig manure rich in phosphorus was used as the recovery object, In order to realize the maximum recovery of phosphorus resources in pig manure, this study established a phosphorus recovery route combining the electrochemical method with the Vivianite method using sacrificial iron anode. And in order to obtain phosphorus rich supernatant, pig manure was treated with different pH values, and the changes in phosphorus components and metal content in the liquid phase were mainly investigated; Graded phosphorus components and microbial communities in the solid phase; Finally, the effect of electrolytic recovery of phosphorus from fermentation supernatant was studied. The results showed that the highest total phosphorus (TP) content in the liquid phase follows a trend of acidity > control > alkalinity; The analysis of the results of solid-phase phosphorus fractionation extraction shows that acidic conditions are more conducive to the release of Non-apatite inorganic phosphorus (NAIP) and Apatite inorganic phosphorus (AP); The microbial community promotes the release of phosphorus by participating in the decomposition of fermentation substrates; The analysis of the change of metal content in the liquid phase before and after electrolysis showed that the two chamber electrolytic cell can not remove other metal components while recovering the vivianite; More than 90% of the phosphorus in the supernatant after fermentation was recovered by electrolysis. The characterization results showed that 84.66% of the precipitate was Vivianite.
Alternative approach to the buckling phenomenon by means of a second order incremental analysis
Authors: Gimena Faustino N. , Goñi Mikel , Gonzaga Pedro , Valdenebro José-Vicente 
Published: September 2023

AbstractThis article addresses the problem of determining the solicitation and deformation of beams with geometric imperfection, also called real beams under a compression action. This calculation is performed by applying the Finite Transfer Method numerical procedure under first-order effects with the entire compression action applied instantaneously and applying the action gradually under second-order effects. The results obtained by this procedure for real sinusoidal or parabolic beams are presented and compared. To verify the potential of the numerical procedure, the first and second-order effects of a beam with variable section are presented. New analytical formulations of the bending moment and the transverse deformation in the beam with sinusoidal imperfection subjected to compression are also obtained, under first and second-order analysis. The maximum failure load of the beams is determined based on their initial deformation. The results of solicitation and deformation of the real beam under compression are compared, applying the analytical expressions obtained and the numerical procedure cited. The beams under study are profiles with different geometric characteristics, which shows that it is possible to obtain maximum failure load results by varying the relationships between lengths, areas and slenderness. The increase in second-order bending moments causes the failure that originates in the beam, making it clear that this approach reproduces the buckling phenomenon. The article demonstrates that through the Finite Transfer Method the calculation of first and second-order effects can be addressed in beams of any type of directrix and of constant or variable section.
Rational design and characterization of cell-selective antimicrobial peptides based on a bioactive peptide from Crocodylus siamensis hemoglobin
Authors: Sosiangdi Sirinthip , Taemaitree Lapatrada , Tankrathok Anupong , Daduang Sakda , Boonlue Sophon , Klaynongsruang Sompong , Jangpromma Nisachon 
Published: September 2023

AbstractAntimicrobial resistance is a growing health concern. Antimicrobial peptides are a potential solution because they bypass conventional drug resistance mechanisms. Previously, we isolated a peptide from Crocodylus siamensis hemoglobin hydrolysate, which has antimicrobial activity and identified the main peptide from this mixture (QL17). The objective of this work was to evaluate and rationally modify QL17 in order to: (1) control its mechanism of action through bacterial membrane disruption; (2) improve its antimicrobial activity; and (3) ensure it has low cytotoxicity against normal eukaryotic cells. QL17 was rationally designed using physicochemical and template-based methods. These new peptide variants were assessed for: (1) their in vitro inhibition of microbial growth, (2) their cytotoxicity against normal cells, (3) their selectivity for microbes, and (4) the mode of action against bacteria using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal microscopy. The results indicate that all designed peptides have more potent antimicrobial efficacy than QL17 and IL15 peptides. However, only the most rationally modified peptides showed strong antimicrobial activity and minimal toxicity against normal cells. In particular, IL15.3 (hydrophobicity of 47% and net charge of + 6) was a potent antimicrobial agent (MIC = 4–12 μg/mL; MBC = 6–25 μg/mL) and displayed excellent selectivity for microbes (cf. human cells) via FACS assays. Microscopy confirmed that IL15.3 acts against bacteria by disrupting the cell membrane integrity and penetrating into the membrane. This causes the release of intracellular content into the outer environment leading to the death of bacteria. Moreover, IL15.3 can also interact with DNA suggesting it could have dual mode of action. Overall, a novel variant of QL17 is described that increases antimicrobial activity by over 1000-fold (~ 5 μg/mL MIC) and has minimal cytotoxicity. It may have applications in clinical use to treat and safeguard against bacteria.
Analytical sensitivity of a method is critical in detection of low-level BRCA1 constitutional epimutation
Authors: Machaj Filip , Sokolowska Katarzyna Ewa , Borowski Konrad , Retfiński Szymon , Strapagiel Dominik , Sobalska-Kwapis Marta , Huzarski Tomasz , Lubiński Jan , Wojdacz Tomasz Kazimierz 
Published: September 2023

AbstractRecent reports based on a substantial number of cases, warrant need for population-based research to determine implications of constitutional methylation of tumor suppressor genes such as BRCA1 occurring in healthy tissue in the prediction of cancer. However, the detection of the constitutional methylation in DNA extracted from blood has already been shown to be technologically challenging, mainly because epimutations appear to be present in blood at a very low level. The analytical sensitivity required for low-level methylation detection can be provided by NGS, but this technique is still labor and cost-intensive. We assessed if PCR-based MS-HRM and BeadChip microarray technologies, which are standardized and cost-effective technologies for methylation changes screening, provide a sufficient level of analytical sensitivity for constitutional BRCA1 methylation detection in blood samples. The study included whole blood samples from 67 healthy women, 35 with previously confirmed and 32 with no detectable BRCA1 promoter methylation for which we performed both MS-HRM based BRCA1 gene methylation screening and genome wide methylation profiling with EPIC microarray. Our results shown, that low-level BRCA1 methylation can be effectively detected in DNA extracted from blood by PCR-based MS-HRM. At the same time, EPIC microarray does not provide conclusive results to unambiguously determine the presence of BRCA1 constitutional methylation in MS-HRM epimutation positive samples. The analytical sensitivity of MS-HRM is sufficient to detect low level BRCA1 constitutional epimutation in DNA extracted from blood and BeadChip technology-based microarrays appear not to provide that level of analytical sensitivity.
Putative photosensitivity in internal light organs (organs of Pesta) of deep-sea sergestid shrimps
Authors: Frank Tamara , Sickles Jamie , DeLeo Danielle , Blackwelder Patricia , Bracken-Grissom Heather 
Published: September 2023

AbstractMany marine species can regulate the intensity of bioluminescence from their ventral photophores in order to counterilluminate, a camouflage technique whereby animals closely match the intensity of the downwelling illumination blocked by their bodies, thereby hiding their silhouettes. Recent studies on autogenic cuticular photophores in deep-sea shrimps indicate that the photophores themselves are light sensitive. Here, our results suggest photosensitivity in a second type of autogenic photophore, the internal organs of Pesta, found in deep-sea sergestid shrimps. Experiments were conducted onboard ship on live specimens, exposing the animals to bright light, which resulted in ultrastructural changes that matched those seen in crustacean eyes during the photoreceptor membrane turnover, a process that is crucial for the proper functioning of photosensitive components. In addition, RNA-seq studies demonstrated the expression of visual opsins and phototransduction genes in photophore tissue that are known to play a role in light detection, and electrophysiological measurements indicated that the light organs are responding to light received by the eyes. The long sought after mechanism of counterillumination remains unknown, but evidence of photosensitivity in photophores may indicate a dual functionality of light detection and emission.
Association of PDGFRA polymorphisms with the risk of corneal astigmatism in a Japanese population
Authors: Fukasaku Hideharu , Meguro Akira , Takeuchi Masaki , Mizuki Nobuhisa , Ota Masao , Funakoshi Kengo 
Published: September 2023

AbstractCorneal astigmatism is reportedly associated with polymorphisms of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) gene region in Asian populations of Chinese, Malay, and Indian ancestry and populations of European ancestry. In this study, we investigated whether these PDGFRA polymorphisms are associated with corneal astigmatism in a Japanese population. We recruited 1,535 cases with corneal astigmatism (mean corneal cylinder power across both eyes: ≤  − 0.75 diopters [D]) and 842 controls (> − 0.75 D) to genotype 13 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the PDGFRA gene region. We also performed imputation analysis in the region, with 179 imputed SNPs included in the statistical analyses. The PDGFRA SNPs were not significantly associated with the cases with corneal astigmatism ≤  − 0.75 D. However, the odds ratios (ORs) of the minor alleles of SNPs in the upstream region of PDGFRA, including rs7673984, rs4864857, and rs11133315, tended to increase according to the degree of corneal astigmatism, and these SNPs were significantly associated with the cases with corneal astigmatism ≤  − 1.25 D or ≤  − 1.50 D (Pc < 0.05, OR = 1.34–1.39). These results suggest that PDGFRA SNPs play a potential role in the development of greater corneal astigmatism.