bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Model and Evaluation: Towards Fairness in Multilingual Text Classification
Authors: Lin Nankai , He Junheng , Tang Zhenghang , Fang Jiajun , Yang Aimin , Zhou Dong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Recently, more and more research has focused on addressing bias in text classification models. However, existing research mainly focuses on the fairness of monolingual text classification models, and research on fairness for multilingual text classification is still very limited. In this paper, we focus on the task of multilingual text classification and propose a debiasing framework for multilingual text classification based on contrastive learning. Our proposed method does not rely on any external language resources and can be extended to any other languages. In addition, the existing research on the fairness of multilingual text classification is relatively simple in the evaluation mode. The evaluation method of fairness is the same as the monolingual equality difference evaluation method, that is, the evaluation is performed on a single language. We propose a multi-dimensional fairness evaluation framework for multilingual text classification, which evaluates the model’s monolingual equality difference, multilingual equality difference, multilingual equality performance difference, and negative gain of the fairness strategy. We hope that our work can provide a more general debiasing method and a more comprehensive evaluation framework for multilingual text fairness tasks.
Breeding water parameters are important determinants of Microsporidia MB prevalence in the aquatic stages of Anopheles mosquitoes
Authors: Akorli Esinam A. , Andoh Nana Efua , Egyirifa Richardson K. , Dorcoo Christopher , Otoo Sampson , Tetteh Seraphim N.A. , Pul Reuben Mwimson , Sackitey Derrick B. , Oware Stephen K.D , Dadzie Samuel K. , Akorli Jewelna 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The fungus, Microsporidia MB disrupts Plasmodium development in Anopheles mosquitoes. It has been associated with An. gambiae and An. coluzzii (Ghana), and An. arabiensis (Kenya) from rice fields. As a tool for vector/disease control, its ecological distribution and factors that determine their occurrence must be defined. We investigated the prevalence of Microsporidia MB in Anopheles mosquitoes across selected sites in Ghana, and the breeding water physicochemical parameters that are associated with the occurrence of the fungus by fitting regression models. DNA was extracted from the abdomens of 4255 adult Anopheles mosquitoes that emerged from larvae and pupae collected from selected sites in northern and southern Ghana between August and October of 2021 and 2022. Detection of Microsporidia MB was achieved using qPCR, while species were molecularly identified using SINE, RFLP methods, and the ANOSPP algorithm. Overall Microsporidia MB prevalence was 2.2%. Male mosquitoes exhibited higher prevalence of infections and had increased predicted probability of infection 85% higher than females. Sawla, in Ghana's Savannah zone had the highest MB prevalence (56.52%) despite lacking rice fields. Biochemical oxygen demand in mosquito breeding water was estimated to be positively associated with and, significantly predicts MB prevalence in mosquitoes with an accuracy of 94%. According to our data, all Anopheles species were at equal probability of MB infection. These results provide preliminary information on micro-ecological factors that could support the sustainability of MB infection in mosquitoes during their aquatic life stages. It will be important, therefore, to explore the impact of strategies for larval source management on these factors to ensure that the symbiont's persistence during the host's aquatic stages may not be adversely affected should it be used as an integrated approach for mosquito/disease control.
Elucidating the mitogenomic blueprint of Pomadasys perotaei from the Eastern Atlantic: Characterization and matrilineal phylogenetic insights into haemulid grunts (Teleostei: Lutjaniformes)
Authors: Wujdi Arief , Bang Gyurim , Amin Muhammad Hilman Fu'adil , Jang Yengju , Kim Hyun-Woo , Kundu Shantanu 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The parrot grunt fish, Pomadasys perotaei, has a limited distribution in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and is an important species in marine capture fisheries across several West African countries. Despite its ecological and economic significance, the mitogenomic information for this species is lacking. This study utilized next-generation sequencing to generate the de novo mitogenome of P. perotaei from eastern Atlantic Sea. The resulting mitogenome is 16,691 base pairs and includes 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNAs, two ribosomal RNAs, and an AT-rich control region (CR). Most of the PCGs exhibit nonsynonymous (Ka) and synonymous (Ks) substitution rates of less than ‘1’, indicating strong negative selection across haemulid fishes. The control region of Pomadasys species contains four conserved domains, as seen in other teleost’s, with polymorphic nucleotides that can be used to study population structures through the amplification of short mitochondrial gene fragments. Additionally, Bayesian phylogenetic analysis based on PCGs revealed a non-monophyletic clustering pattern of Pomadasys within the haemulid matrilineal tree. Overall, the structural characterization and phylogenetic analysis enhance our understanding of the genetic composition and evolutionary history of Pomadasys species from the Indo-West Pacific and eastern Atlantic Oceans.
Design and Optimization of Multi-Band Nano-Structured Antenna Arrays for Gynecological Medical Applications: A Theoretical and Simulation Study
Authors: Lamzouri O. , Laamara R. Ahl , Drissi L. B 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study explores the theoretical design, simulation, and optimization of nano-structured antenna arrays for multi-band operation in medical applications, with a focus on gynecological diagnostics and therapeutics. Utilizing advanced computational models and simulations, the research addresses key challenges such as biocompatibility, impedance matching, and specific absorption rate (SAR) optimization. The results demonstrate that these nano-structured antennas can achieve high efficiency, low return loss, and minimal SAR across multiple frequency bands, including the Medical Implant Communication Service (MICS), Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) bands, and higher frequencies up to 60 GHz. The optimized design ensures robust performance and safety within biological environments, making it highly suitable for integration into implantable medical devices. This work not only contributes to the advancement of nano-structured antennas in gynecological applications but also provides a solid foundation for their adaptation in other medical fields, potentially revolutionizing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
Detection Range Adjustable D-shaped Photonic Crystal Fiber Plasmonic Sensor: A comparative Study on Materials Effect
Authors: Zhao Zihong , Pan Honggang , Zhang Ailing , You Qingcheng , Zhu Yukun , Li Rupeng , Chen Chunqi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In this paper, a high-performance plasmonic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor with adjustable detection range is proposed using Au in combination with TiO2 and Si3N4 as the adhesive layer, respectively. We simulated and compared the effect of two attachment enhancement materials on the performance of the sensor. The results show that for the Au - TiO2 combination, the maximum wavelength sensitivity (WS) is 65,000 nm/RIU at the refractive index (RI) of 1.39–1.40, the wavelength interrogation resolution of 1.54 × 10− 6 RIU, the sensor reaches the amplitude sensitivity (AS) of 2,429 RIU− 1 at RI = 1.34 and the resolution of 4.12 × 10− 6 RIU with amplitude interrogation method, and the RI detection range is 1.34–1.40. For the Au - Si3N4 combination, the maximum WS is 76,000 nm/RIU at RI between 1.39–1.40, the resolution of 1.32 × 10− 6 RIU− 1 with wavelength interrogation and the AS is 3,040 RIU− 1 when RI = 1.34, the amplitude interrogation resolution of 3.29 × 10− 6 RIU, and a RI range of 1.40–1.34. The sensor has an ultra-high WS and AS as well as the adjustable detection ranges of 1.31–1.41 and 1.33–1.43 by filling the supporting analyte with certain RI. We also present the fabrication process of the sensor, our sensors show great potential in different scenarios due to its superior performance and easiness of manufacturing.
Higher wildfire incidence, severity and population exposure in protected areas within fire-prone Temperate and Mediterranean biomes
Authors: de Dios Víctor Resco , Schütze Simon , Camprubí Àngel Cunill , Balaguer-Romano Rodrigo , Boer Matthias , Fernandes Paulo 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The European Union has recently passed the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) which, among others, seeks to increase the cover of forest reserves protected for biodiversity and, globally, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework similarly seeks to expand protected areas. Here we test whether a trade-off exists between protected areas expansion and fire activity, leading to a higher exposure to fire for the population in protected areas, because they often harbour more biomass and occur in remote areas. We analysed forest fires affecting 14,892,174 ha, and intersecting 10,999 protected areas, across fire-prone European Temperate and Mediterranean forest biomes, and in similar ecosystems within California, Chile and Australia. Protected areas were being disproportionally affected by fire within most Temperate biomes, and fire severity was 20% higher within protected areas also in Mediterranean biomes. Population in the periphery of forest areas was up to 16 times more likely to be exposed to large wildfires when their environment was within, or near, protected areas. Enhanced fire activity in protected areas was driven by a combination of fuel loads, accessibility and abiotic factors. Wildfire prevention and mitigation must be central goals in the development of the NRL and other conservation/restoration programs to diminish population exposure and fire severity.
Influence of Surface Modification, Fabric Structures and Stitch Length on Physico-Mechanical and Comfort Properties of 100% cellulose based Knit Fabric
Authors: Akter Nasrin , Repon Md. Reazuddin , Pranta Arnob Dhar , Hosen Md. Imran , Islam Shaima , Akter Nahida 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Most of the fabric properties of knitted fabric could be controlled by stitch length and fabric structures. Stitch length is the principal fabric parameter for knitted fabric. This study investigated the effect of surface modification, stitch length and fabric structures on the fundamental fabric properties of knitted fabric. In this study, three different stitch lengths (2.6, 2.65 and 2.7 mm) and two different fabric structures were used for producing the samples, keeping the yarn count and other machine parameters similar. While comparing the properties between the different stitch lengths and fabric structures, the different physical properties of fabric were examined, like stitch density (CPI, WPI), GSM, bursting strength, thickness, shrinkage%, spirality and comfort properties of fabric like air permeability and water vapor transmission rate. The results showed that all the fabric parameters were directly affected by stitch length and the fabric structures. The fabric WPI, CPI, GSM, thickness and bursting strength decreased with the increase in fabric stitch length (2.7 <2.65 <2.6 mm) and the presence of tuck loops and miss loops in the single jersey (SJ) derivatives. The fabric spirality, shrinkage and air permeability increased with the increase in fabric stitch length and the presence of tuck loops and miss loops in the fabric structures. Fabric stitch length and fabric structures have no significant effect on the water vapor transmission rate.
ATR and TopBP1 oppose to control dormant origin building, providing a first defence against replication stress
Authors: Debatisse Michelle , Koundrioukoff Stéphane , Kim Sujung , Alary Nathan , Toffano Antoine , Melendez-Garcia Rodrigo , Wu Xia , Liu Yaqun , Gnan Stefano , El-Hilali Sami , Brison Olivier , Rosselli Filippo , Chen Chun-Long 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Replication stress, a major hallmark of cancers, sources from replication fork slowing or blocking. In response, activation of extra-origins, otherwise dormant, supports the replication rate. Whether the DNA replication checkpoint drives this compensation process remained unclear. Here, DNA combing analyses show that a linear relationship ties inter-origin distances to fork speeds and that the slope of this line, called stressline, accurately quantifies compensation efficiency. Comparison of the slopes in human cells with different genotypes elicits a model whereby TopBP1 locks the step-wise building of dormant origins at the pre-initiation complex step. Under stress, ATR triggers TopBP1 eviction from this complex, independently of CHK1, allowing building to proceed. We also developed ATRAP-seq, a genome-wide procedure whose data support the model and strongly suggest that compensation efficiency and limiting factors jointly govern the pace of replication domain activation. Altogether our results provide a comprehensive mechanism accounting for genome protection through loose replication checkpoint activation.
Repairing the retinal ischemic microenvironment with an engineered exosome-loaded dehydroepiandrosterone peptide hydrogel
Authors: Yang Zhimou , Peng Shenjun , Zhang Ying , Zhang Mengjia , Zhang Wen , Wang Lu , Zhang Yating , Jiang Feng , Zhang Jiacheng , Yang Chang , Ji Wenxuan , Zhang Wenyan , Gu Jiakuo , Gao Jie , Zhang Zhuhong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Retinal ischemia-reperfusion (RIR) injury creates a complex retinal pathological microenvironment (RPMe), contributing to vision-threatening diseases. Current research predominantly focuses on intracellular issues like oxidative stress and inflammation, while often neglecting extracellular matrix (ECM) fibrosis and angiogenesis. Here we developed an engineered exosome-loaded self-assembling peptide hydrogel to synergistically regulate both intracellular and extracellular events of RIR injury-induced RPMe. Engineered exosomes derived from retinal precursor cells, pre-treated with berberine and hypoxia, enhance cell repair and immune modulation. These exosomes are encapsulated in a hydrogel composed of dehydroepiandrosterone and insulin-like growth factor-I mimetic peptide, which not only possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but also serves as a sustained exosome release system. Transcriptomic analysis reveals inhibition pathways including Wnt, PI3K/AKT (associated with oxidative stress and inflammation), and TGF-β/Smad3 and Notch3/Ang2 (related to ECM fibrosis and angiogenesis). Our multifunctional hydrogel provides a comprehensive treatment for retinal diseases by targeting both intracellular and extracellular RPMe events.
The practices of an integrated infrastructure planning in Ethiopian metropolitan cities, the case of Addis Ababa and Sheger cities
Authors: Worku Geremew , Adugna Dagnachew 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

When properly planned and managed, urbanization can offer improved access to social amenities and job possibilities. On the other hand, disjointed approaches to infrastructure investment and development could lead to unsustainable urban sprawl, traffic jams, poor public service delivery, environmental degradation, inefficiencies, and inequality. Therefore developing infrastructure strategically is necessary to meet the changing needs of expanding metropolitan areas. Purposive sampling was employed in the study to implement a mixed-methods strategy for explanatory and descriptive research designs. The research attempts to identify possibilities, risks, flaws, and strengths in the current integrated infrastructure planning system by a thorough examination of policy frameworks, stakeholder involvement procedures, and implementation techniques. The results of this study will provide suggestions for improving cooperation, allocating resources as efficiently as possible, and utilizing technological advancements to promote resilient and inclusive urban settings. In creating resilient and inclusive cities, it also emphasizes the significance of coordinated efforts among stakeholders, efficient use of technology, and sustainable development principles. By looking at this, the study adds to the conversation about integrated infrastructure planning and provides information to stakeholders, legislators, and urban planners who are involved in determining the future of Ethiopian and other metropolitan regions.
Assessments of hydrogeochemical characteristics, water quality, and health risk of groundwater of Chapi-Nawabganj District of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Zahidul , Mostafa M. G. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTA total of 60 groundwater samples were collected over three seasons, aiming to assess hydrochemical characteristics, water quality, pollution level, and health risk. The concentration of Fe, Mn, and Pb exceeded almost 100% of samples in three seasons. The groundwater was found to be highly contaminated with Cd and Cr in the pre-monsoon and Ni in the monsoon. The order of major ion and trace metal concentrations is as follows: Ca2+ &gt; Na+ &gt; Mg2+ &gt; K+; HCO3− &gt; Cl− &gt; SO42− &gt; NO3− &gt; PO43−, and Fe &gt; Mn &gt; Pb &gt; Cd in three seasons. The groundwater was Ca-Mg-HCO3− type. The study suggests that the contamination sources are mostly geogenic as well as slightly anthropogenic. The water–rock interactions are the dissolution of calcite and dolomite, along with silicate weathering, which controls the hydrochemistry of the groundwater. The indices, including the Water Quality Index (WQI), and the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCMEWQI), revealed that the groundwater quality in the area was moderately polluted. The Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HMPI) and human health risk assessment (HRA) illustrated that groundwater is a significant health hazard, indicating it is unsuitable for human consumption and suggesting treatment before drinking.
Determining Groundwater Table in Slopes With Horizontal Drains and Design Framework for Length and Spacing
Authors: Lakruwan Mihira , Kamura Akiyoshi , Kazama Motoki 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
Horizontal drains (HDs) are commonly implemented in slope stabilization to reduce the pore water pressure (PWP); however, they also cause complex three-dimensional (3D) variations in the groundwater table (GWT), which require intricate 3D flow models. To address this challenge, we propose a novel semi-empirical method based on a series of numerical simulations validated through numerical and field studies to determine the GWT of a slope with HDs. Subsequently, the proposed method was extended to calculate the average PWP (U) acting on a predefined slip surface via linear integration. The decrease of U (ΔU) resulting from HDs can be used to evaluate the performance of HDs. To create design charts that consider the impact of length and spacing of HDs on ΔU for a specific slope, we developed a Python-based computer program. Two case studies were conducted, which showed that ΔU increases with longer HDs and shorter spacing. The results also indicated that extending the HDs beyond a particular length does not significantly affect ΔU; it is highly sensitive to the spacing in short HDs and not sensitive in long HDs. Furthermore, we found that the total length of HDs required to achieve a target ΔU is less in wide spacings than in short spacings. In conclusion, long HDs with wide spacings are more effective and economical. Owing to the unique nature of each slope stability problem, this study offers a practical tool for analyzing the effectiveness of HDs instead of providing a general guide.
The Role of Public Expenditures on Community Welfare
Authors: Dosinta Nina Febriana , Djafar Fariastuti , Yantiana Nella 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis study aims to determine whether public expenditures in meeting basic human needs affect community welfare. This study uses data on realizing the spending on education, health, and social protection as a proxy for public expenditures and the human development index for community welfare. This study indicates that education and health expenditures have a significant positive effect, while social protection expenditures have a significant negative effect. This study confirms disclosures in the Audit Report of the Audit Board of the Republic of Indonesia. The disclosures in Provincial Government Financial Statements in Indonesia state that the regional government prioritized meeting basic needs, education, health, and social on mandatory spending to improve the quality of community life. This research implies that social protection expenditure is not optimal for developing human capabilities. Keywords:Education Expenditure, Health Expenditure, Social Protection Expenditure, Human Capability, Community Welfare
Sentido y valor de los mercados costeros de lugar en Chile
Authors: Saavedra Gallo Gonzalo , Bello Maldonado Álvaro , Díaz Álvarez Asunción , Luco Busto Javiera 
Published: October 2024

This article analyses the structural dynamics of social life at five local coastal markets (LCMs) on the Chilean coast (Calbuco, Puerto Montt, Valdivia, Valparaiso and Tongoy). In a semantic narrative framework, we use ethnographic methodology to demonstrate the opacity of local markets—particularly LCMs—in terms of economic and community life. Opacity is a social condition. However, the background reveals profound significance that bears witness to and partially portrays the complexity of markets as places of business, livelihood, life projects and social mobility, where individuality is necessarily intertwined with the community. Our conclusions show that these LCMs go beyond the orthodox definitions that reduce the economy (and the markets themselves) to cost-benefit-motivated interactions between individual agents. Instead, markets go against the grain of this instrumental reductionism and offer remarkable potential for re-thinking, imagining, constructing and co-constructing areas (coastal areas in our analysis) based on collective experience.
El paisaje lacustre y el sentido de identidad: transformaciones y resiliencia en las poblaciones de la cuenca del Alto Lerma
Authors: Sugiura Yamamoto Yoko 
Published: October 2024

La cuenca del Alto Lerma es reconocida por sus humedales, volcanes, bosques circundantes y el gran río Lerma. Desde hace alrededor de 3000 años hasta la actualidad, los pobladores de esta región han venido interactuando con su entorno lacustre. Resultado de esta milenaria convivencia se tiene por su particular forma de comprender el paisaje, término que, con el paso del tiempo, ha ido diversificándose de acuerdo con las perspectivas teóricas específicas.
En el presente texto, a partir del paisaje concebido como un constructo social-histórico, se relatan los vaivenes de las interacciones entre los grupos lacustres y sus humedales desde los tiempos prehispánicos hasta apenas hace unas décadas. Mediante un proceso de constantes negociaciones entre ellos, se fue construyendo una percepción particular del paisaje. A veces, éste manifiesta su carácter dinámico, mientras que, en otras, parece pervivir sin cambios perceptibles. Todo cambio en la percepción del paisaje puede ser efímero puede ser efímero, pero, también, puede perdurar y provocar una transformación profunda o una resiliencia ante ella. En este complejo proceso, la gente va tejiendo su razón de existencia e identidad. Así, el verdadero significado del paisaje lacustre que va creando una historia particular se encuentra en un péndulo precario entre el ser humano y los humedales.
Si el paisaje es un constructo socialmente condicionado, se presume, entonces, que, a lo largo de la historia del valle de Toluca, la construcción del paisaje lacustre ha tenido múltiples facetas, en ocasiones, provocadas por los episodios ambientales y, en otras, por las causas antrópicas.