bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Research on the Environmental Effects of High-Speed Rail Development
Authors: chen fangli , shao mimi , chen weitong , wang furu 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This study utilizes the opening of high-speed rail as a quasi-natural experiment and employs panel data from 281 Chinese cities at or above the prefectural level from 2003 to 2019 to empirically examine the impact of high-speed rail development on environmental pollution. The results indicate that the opening of high-speed rail significantly reduces environmental pollution, with varying degrees of effects on three types of industrial pollutants. The empirical findings pass the parallel trends test and dynamic effect test, revealing a lag of one year for the impact of high-speed rail on environmental pollution and an increasing effect on reducing industrial pollutant emissions over time. In this study, the core explanatory variable is replaced by the frequency of high-speed rail, and the baseline regression results demonstrate that an increase in high-speed rail frequency can decrease industrial pollutant emissions, with varying degrees of impact on different pollutants, ensuring the robustness of the results. Mechanism testing shows that the opening of high-speed rail can reduce environmental pollution through industrial structural adjustment and technological progress.
Altered consciousness mediates the effect of hypernatremia, but not hyponatremia, on mortality among patients observed in the ICU
Authors: Hoz Miguel Ángel Armengol de la , Hao Sicheng , Raines Nathan H , Celi Leo Anthony , Sánchez-González Patricia , Gómez Enrique J , Danziger John 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Dysnatremias - hypernatremia and hyponatremia - may be associated with mortality through their impact on altered consciousness. We examined the mediating effect of decreased consciousness on the relationship between dysnatremia and mortality.
Methods: Among 195,568 critically ill patients in the United States contained in the eICU database, we categorized serum sodium into bands of 5mEq/L. Using causal mediation analysis, we compared bands in the hypernatremia and hyponatremia ranges to a reference band of 135-139mEq/L to determine the proportion of mortality mediated by decreased consciousness as determined by the Glasgow Coma Score (GCS).
Results: Both hyponatremia (OR [95%CI] for bands: <120mEq/L: 1.58 [1.26-1.97]; 120-<125mEq/L: 1.92 [1.64-2.25]; 125-<130mEq/L: 1.76 [1.60-1.93]; 130-<135mEq/L: 1.32 [1.24-1.41]) and hypernatremia (OR [95%CI] for bands: 140-<145mEq/L: 1.12 [1.05-1.19]; 145-<150mEq/L: 1.89 [1.70-2.11]; ≥150mEq/L: 1.86 [1.57-2.19]) were significantly associated with increased mortality. GCS mediated the effect of hypernatremia on mortality risk (Proportion mediated [95%CI]: 140-144mEq/L: 0.38 [0.23 to 0.89]; 145-149mEq/L: 0.27 [0.22 to 0.34]; ≥150mEq/L: 0.53 [0.41 to 0.81]) but not hyponatremia (proportion mediated 95%CI upper bound <0.05 for all bands).
Conclusion: Decreased consciousness mediates the association between increased mortality and hypernatremia, but not hyponatremia. Further studies are needed to explore neurologic mechanisms and directionality in this relationship.
Zinc finger protein 296 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression via inducing interaction between macrophages and B cells
Authors: Xu Nan , Wang Shuai , Chen Huan , Chen Yiyuan , Yang Yijie , Wei Xuyong , Xu Xiao , Wei Qiang 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies with poor survival. Tumor tissues are heterogeneous, with different cell types in the tumor microenvironment, which play different roles in tumorigenesis and tumor progression attached to the prognosis of HCC.This study analyzed HCC RNA-seq for cell-type identification and prognosis by estimating relative subsets of RNA transcript (CIBERSORTx). Analyzing LIHC RNA-seq (n = 423) from TCGA showed that high infiltration of eosinophils promoted HCC progression.Interaction of B cells and macrophages in HCC was detected by the Hepa1-6 orthotopic transplantation mice model and flow cytometer analysis. B cells were correlated with macrophages (r=-0.24) and could affect the expression of PDL1 in macrophages infiltrating in LIHC. Transcription factor Zinc finger protein 296 (ZNF296) might accelerate HCC progression by regulating PAFAH1B3 and H2AFX. HCC patients with high expression of ZNF296 were in the late pathological stage. Moreover, the expression of ZNF296 was positively associated with the abundance of activated B cells (r = 0.185) and macrophages (r = 0.167). Among the survival and dead phenotype related to immune cells identified by SCISSOR analysis, T cells were most correlated to the excellent prognosis of HCC. The normal function of Liver cells and DC cells were also connected with the good prognosis of HCC.This investigation primarily delves into the intricate interplay between the immune microenvironment and the prognosis of HCC, thereby unveiling ZNF296 as a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target for HCC.
Developing a Decision Model for Enhancing the Safety of CNG Stations Using Data Mining and Safety Indicators Classification
Authors: Hamidieh Alireza , Ghanbari Maliheh 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
This study addresses the need to expand Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) filling stations regarding the increasing popularity of dual-fuel vehicles. The primary challenge in this regard is ensuring these stations’ safety and implementing effective safety measures. To this end, a decision model was developed using data-mining techniques. The data needed for this purpose included 57 CNG stations in Markazi, Tehran, Isfahan, and Khuzestan provinces (Iran). Then, a comprehensive model was formulated using the safety indicators extracted from relevant literature. The data were analyzed using classification and prediction algorithms, i.e., Naive Bayes and Apriori, respectively. Naive Bayes achieved an accuracy rate of 89.3% in predicting defects, outperforming other algorithms. On the other hand, classification using Naive Bayes assigned high priority to specific safety indicators, including compression systems, equipment safety, and site and traffic safety. In this study, driver safety received the lowest priority (with a mere 1% allocation), followed by employee safety (at 2%) and environmental and vehicle safety (at 3%). The Apriori algorithm revealed crisis measures required to enhance CNG station safety. These measures included environmental safety, employee safety, equipment and system maintenance, compliance with regulations, and site and traffic safety. The sensitivity analysis highlighted that employee and driver safety (65%) and equipment safety (35%) were particularly sensitive to CNG station safety, with training identified as the most impactful safety indicator.
Structural basis of closed groove scrambling by a TMEM16 protein
Authors: Accardi Alessio , Feng Zhang , Alvarenga Omar 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Activation of Ca2+-dependent TMEM16 scramblases induces the externalization of phosphatidylserine, a key molecule in multiple signaling processes. Current models suggest that the TMEM16s scramble lipids by deforming the membrane near a hydrophilic groove, and that Ca2+ dependence arises from the different association of lipids with an open or closed groove. However, the molecular rearrangements involved in groove opening and of how lipids reorganize outside the closed groove remain unknown. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, we directly visualize how lipids associate at the closed groove of Ca2+-bound nhTMEM16 in nanodiscs. Functional experiments pinpoint the lipid-protein interaction sites critical for closed groove scrambling. Structural and functional analyses suggest groove opening entails the sequential appearance of two π-helical turns in the groove-lining TM6 helix and identify critical rearrangements. Finally, we show that the choice of scaffold protein and lipids affects the conformations of nhTMEM16 and their distribution, highlighting a key role of these factors in cryoEM structure determination.
Enabling Quantum Cybersecurity Analytics in Botnet Detection: Stable Architecture and Speed-up through Tree Algorithms
Authors: Tehrani Madjid G , Sultanow Eldar , Buchanan William J , Amir Malik , Jeschke Anja , Houmani Mahkameh , Chow Raymond , Lemoudden Mouad 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
For the first time, we enable the execution of hybrid quantum machine learning (HQML) methods on real quantum computers with 100 data samples and real-device-based simulations with 5,000 data samples, thereby outperforming the current state of research of Suryotrisongko and Musashi from 2022 who were dealing with 1,000 data samples and quantum simulators (pure software-based emulators) only. Additionally, we beat their reported accuracy of 76.8% by an average accuracy of 91.2%, all within a total execution time of 1,687 seconds. We achieve this significant progress through two-step strategy: Firstly, we establish a stable quantum architecture that enables us to execute HQML algorithms on real quantum devices. Secondly, we introduce new hybrid quantum binary classifiers (HQBCs) based on Hoeffding decision tree algorithms. These algorithms speed up the process via batch-wise execution, reducing the number of shots required on real quantum devices compared to conventional loop-based optimizers. Their incremental nature serves the purpose of online large-scale data streaming for domain generation algorithm (DGA) botnet detection, and allows us to apply HQML to the field of cybersecurity analytics. We conduct our experiments using the Qiskit library with the Aer quantum simulator, and on three different real quantum devices from Azure Quantum: IonQ, Rigetti, and Quantinuum. This is the first time these tools are combined in this manner.
Biochemical and structural basis of mercuric reductase, GbsMerA, from Gelidibacter salicanalis PAMC21136
Authors: Do Hackwon , Pardhe Bashu , Lee Min Ju , Lee Jun Hyuck , Oh Tae-Jin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Heavy metals, including mercury, are non-biodegradable and highly toxic to microorganisms even at low concentrations. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the environmental adaptability of microorganisms with Hg resistance holds promise for their use in Hg bioremediation. We characterized GbsMerA, a mercury reductase belonging to the mercury-resistant operon of Gelidibacter salicanalis PAMC21136, and found its specific activity in reducing Hg+2. Its enzyme activity was the highest in the presence of Hg+2 and moderate in the presence of Ag+ and Mn+2. GbsMerA exhibited optimal activity at pH 7.0 and a temperature of 60 °C. GbsMerA contains unique residues, Tyr437´ and Asp47, which are responsible for metal transfer at the si-face. The complex structure with NADPH indicated that Y174 in the re-face is a gate for NADPH binding. This study provides a background for understanding Hg detoxification by GbsMerA and suggests the application of genetically engineered E. coli strains for environmental Hg removal.
C-reactive protein levels, the prognostic nutritional index, and the lactate dehydrogenase-to-lymphocyte ratio are important prognostic factors in primary central nervous system lymphoma: A single-center study of 223 patients
Authors: Zuo Jinyi , Lei Ting , Zhong Shuai , Zhou Jiajun , Liu Rui , Wu Chenxing , Li Shouwei 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare and highly aggressive type of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), and the prognosis is poor. Currently, the most used prognostic models are the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) and International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG) scores; however, their predictive effects are changing with increasing incidence and changing treatment regimens. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that inflammatory and nutritional markers are factors that can determine tumor prognosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify and validate novel prognostic factors for PCNSL.
Methods
Clinical information was collected from 223 patients with PCNSL. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were used as endpoints, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were conducted to determine the cut-off values for the inflammatory indicators. Correlations between variables and PFS or OS were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses, and positive indicators were selected for survival analysis.
Results
A prognostic nutritional index (PNI) < 49.38 was associated with worse PFS (p = 0.017), and outcomes significantly differed between patients with a PNI ≥ 49.38 and < 49.38 (p < 0.001). Age < 60 years (p = 0.001) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels < 3.14 (p = 0.006) were associated with better OS. In elderly patients (≥ 60 years), a lactate dehydrogenase-to-lymphocyte ratio (LLR) < 95.69 (p = 0.021) was associated with better OS, and the outcome significantly differed between patients with an LLR ≥ 95.69 and LLR < 95.69 (p = 0.015).
Conclusion
The PNI and CRP levels are prognostic factors for PCNSL. In elderly patients with PCNSL, the LLR can predict prognosis.
Assisted reproductive technology induces different secondary sex ratio: parental and embryonic impacts
Authors: Zhao Jiansen , Shen Haoran , Zhu Qijiong , Liu Jiong , Han Jianhua , Yi Ruiting , Li Junxing , Lin Yanshan , Liu Tao , Zhong Xinqi 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Assisted reproduction technology (ART) has witnessed significant advancements, yet concerns remain regarding its impact on the secondary sex ratio (SSR) in offspring.
Methods
This study aims to investigate the factors associated with SSR in singletons, singletons from twin gestation, and twins from twin gestation within the context of ART. A retrospective study analyzed data from 8,335 births involving 6,223 couples undergoing ART. Binary logistic regression assessed the relationships between parental and embryonic factors and SSR in singletons and singletons from twin gestation. Multinomial logistic regression models were utilized to identify influencing factors for SSR in twins from twin gestation.
Results
Secondary infertility (OR = 1.164, 95%CI: 1.009–1.342) and advanced paternal age (OR = 1.261, 95%CI: 1.038–1.534) were associated with an increased SSR in singletons. Frozen embryo transfer (FET) showed a negative association with SSR (OR = 0.738, 95%CI: 0.597–0.912), while blastocyst transfer was related to an increased SSR (OR = 1.339, 95%CI: 1.030–1.742). Longer duration of gonadotropin (Gn) usage reduced SSR in singletons (OR = 0.961, 95%CI: 0.932–0.990) and singletons from twin gestation (OR = 0.906, 95%CI: 0.838–0.980). In singletons from twin gestation, male-induced infertility (OR = 2.208, 95%CI: 1.120–4.348) and higher Gn dosage (OR = 1.250, 95%CI: 1.010–1.548) were significantly associated with an increased SSR. Women aged > 35 years and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were associated with lower SSR risk (OR = 0.539, 95%CI: 0.293–0.990 and OR = 0.331, 95%CI: 0.158–0.690, respectively). In twins from twin gestation, paternal age (OR = 0.682, 95%CI: 0.492–0.945) and higher Gn dosage (OR = 0.837, 95%CI: 0.715–0.980) were positively associated with a higher proportion of male twins. Cleavage stage transfer (OR = 1.754, 95%CI: 1.133–2.716) resulted in a higher percentage of boy-girl twins compared to blastocyst transfer.
Conclusion
This retrospective study uncovers significant associations between parental and embryonic factors and SSR in ART. These findings contribute to our understanding of SSR dynamics in ART and provide valuable insights for optimizing ART procedures and outcomes.
Functional Recovery in a Cohort of ECMO and Non-ECMO Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Survivors
Authors: Snyder Mackenzie , Njie Binta , Grabenstein Ilana , Viola Sara , Abbas Hatoon , Bhatti Waqas , Lee Ryan , Yeung Siu Yan Amy , Chow Jonathan H. , Tabatabai Ali , Taylor Bradley S. , Dahi Siamak , Scalea Thomas , Rabin Joseph , Grazioli Alison , Calfee Carolyn S. , Britton Noel , Levine Andrea R. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background:
The mortality benefit of VV-ECMO in ARDS has been extensively studied, but the impact on long-term functional outcomes of survivors is poorly defined. We aimed to assess the association between ECMO and functional outcomes in a contemporaneous cohort of survivors of ARDS.
Methods:
Multicenter retrospective cohort study of ARDS survivors who presented to follow-up clinic. The primary outcome was FVC% predicted. Univariate and multivariate regression models were used to evaluate the impact of ECMO on the primary outcome.
Results:
This study enrolled 110 survivors of ARDS, 34 of whom were managed using ECMO. The ECMO cohort was younger (32 [Q1 28, Q3 50] v. 51 [44, 61] yo, p < 0.01), less likely to have COVID-19 (58% v. 96%, p < 0.01), and more severely ill based on the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (7 [5, 9] v. 4 [3, 6], p < 0.01). ECMO patients had significantly longer lengths of hospitalization (46 [27, 62] v. 16 [12, 31] days, p < 0.01) ICU stay (29 [19, 43] v. 10 [5, 17] days, p < 0.01), and duration of mechanical ventilation (24 [14, 42] v. 10 [7, 17] days, p < 0.01). Functional outcomes were similar in ECMO and non-ECMO patients. ECMO did not predict changes in lung function when adjusting for age, SOFA, COVID-19 status, or length of hospitalization.
Conclusions:
There were no significant differences in the FVC% predicted, or other markers of pulmonary, neurocognitive, or psychiatric functional recovery outcomes, when comparing a contemporaneous clinic-based cohort of survivors of ARDS managed with ECMO to those without ECMO.
Age Estimation Based on CBCT Measurement of Pulp Chamber Volume of the First Permanent Molar in Chinese Adults
Authors: Ding Yanjie , Wang Wei , Yang Genjie , Li Ziyi , Guo Aji , Zhang Shilin , Zhang Xiao , Jin Bo 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to establish a population-specific age estimation model by investigating the correlation between the volume of the right first permanent molar pulp chamber and the actual age of Chinese Han adults. Method A total of 1857 CBCT images of Han adult teeth (883 males, 974 females) from the Department of Stomatology of the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College were collected. The volume of the right first permanent molar pulp chamber was measured using Mimics software for statistical analysis. The data were divided into a training set and a validation set in an 8:2 ratio. An age estimation model was built using 1485 samples from the training set, and the accuracy of the model was verified with 372 samples. Results The volume of the right upper and lower jaw pulp chambers showed a strong negative correlation with age, with the correlation of the upper jaw volume with age being superior to that of the lower jaw, and the correlation was highest in the upper jaw of females (r = 0.880). There was a significant difference in the volume of the right first permanent molar pulp chamber between the upper and lower teeth positions and sexes (P < 0.05). Among the 11 mathematical models constructed, the cubic regression model was superior to the other models, and the cubic regression model built for the right upper first permanent molar in females was the best (AGE = 74.96−1.427X−0.04X2 + 0.001X3), with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 4.95 years. Conclusion In the process of age estimation, the volume of the first permanent molar pulp chamber has been proven to be an effective indicator. To improve the accuracy of age estimation, we recommend using models specific to gender and tooth type.
Dietary Patterns with Increased Bean Consumption are Associated with Greater Overall and Shortfall Nutrient Intakes, Lower Added Sugar, and Improved Diet Quality in Adults
Authors: Papanikolaou Yanni 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Limited evidence is available that focuses on beans within American dietary patterns and health. The purpose of this study was to identify commonly consumed bean dietary patterns in adults and compare intakes of shortfall nutrients and diet quality, compared to adults whose typical dietary pattern did not include beans.
Methods
The analyses used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001–2018. Cluster analysis was used to identify bean patterns of consumption, while the USDA food coding system defined daily beans consumed. Five bean dietary patterns of consumption were identified, of which four patterns included both canned bean and dry beans, while one pattern was comprised of no bean consumption. Bean consumption was defined as those consuming kidney beans, black beans, chickpeas, and pinto beans.
Results
Adults consuming bean patterns 1, 2, 3 and 4 had significantly higher diet quality scores compared to the no-bean pattern (61.2 ± 0.5, 58.9 ± 0.5, 55.2 ± 0.4 and 56.5 ± 0.8 vs 48.8 ± 0.2 p’s < 0.0001). Bean consumers also had significantly higher intakes of several shortfall nutrients (choline, alpha-linolenic acid, folate, iron, magnesium and vitamin E relative to no bean consumption. Similarly, intake of dietary fiber, potassium and calcium, all nutrients of public health concern were significantly elevated in bean patterns compared to no-beans.
Conclusions
Dietary patterns that are rich in beans are associated with significantly higher diet quality scores and greater intake of shortfall nutrients, including nutrients of public health concern. Dietary guidance should consider the health benefits associated with the promotion of increased canned and dry bean consumption in dietary patterns.
Long-term conservative treatment outcomes for midshaft clavicle fractures
Authors: Matsubara Yuki , Nakamura Yoshihiro , Sasashige Yoshiaki , Yokoya Shin , Adachi Nobuo 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background: Few reports exist on the long-term outcomes of midshaft clavicle fracture conservative treatments. Therefore, this study investigated the long-term outcome of this treatment in patients with midshaft clavicle fractures.
Methods: Patients were treated conservatively for midshaft clavicle fractures with a figure of eight bandages between 10 and 30 years ago. Subsequently, a telephone survey was used to follow–up these patients, and 38 were successfully evaluated. The mean term after trauma was 17.0 years. Afterward, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder (ASES) score and Shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI) on the affected and unaffected sides were calculated based on the filled questionnaires. We defined patients whose ASES and SPADI on the affected side were worse than the unaffected side as the symptomatic group. Furthermore, plain radiographs measured proportional changes in clavicular length and displacement.
Results: The ASES scores of the affected side were significantly lower than those of the unaffected side, and the SPADI of the affected side was significantly higher than that of the unaffected side. Furthermore, the symptomatic group's proportional changes in clavicular length and displacement were significantly larger than the asymptomatic group.
Conclusion: The affected shoulder side was more symptomatic than the unaffected side 10 to 30 years after the trauma when midshaft clavicle fractures were treated conservatively. Moreover, several patients became symptomatic for fractures with a larger proportional change in clavicular length or displacement.