bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimized Methods for Obtaining scRNA-seq and snRNA-seq Data from Skeletal Muscle Stored in Nucleic Acid Stabilizing Preservative
Authors: Adeyemo Adebowale , Heuston Elisabeth , Doumatey Ayo , Naz Faiza , Islam Shamima , Anderson Stacie , Kirby Martha , Wincovitch Stephen , Dell’Orso Stefania , Rotimi Charles 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Single cell studies have transformed our understanding of cellular heterogeneity in disease but the need for fresh starting material can be an obstacle, especially in the context of international multicenter studies and archived tissue. We developed a protocol to obtain high-quality cells and nuclei from dissected human skeletal muscle archived in the preservative Allprotect® Tissue Reagent (ATR). After fluorescent imaging microscopy confirmed intact nuclei, we performed four protocol variations that compared sequencing metrics between cells and nuclei enriched by either filtering or flow cytometry sorting. Cells and nuclei (either sorted or filtered) produced statistically identical transcriptional profiles and recapitulated 8 cell types present in skeletal muscle. Flow cytometry sorting successfully enriched for higher-quality cells and nuclei but resulted in an overall decrease in input material. Our protocol provides an important resource for obtaining high-quality single cell genomic material from archived tissue and to streamline global collaborative efforts.
Can Green Location-Oriented Policies Promote Urban Energy Efficiency? --Evidence from Eco-Industrial Demonstration Parks in China
Authors: Liu Yang , Jiang Hui , Cui Junfu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The enhancement of energy efficiency represents a pivotal step towards the achievement of the objective of energy conservation, emission reduction, and green development. Location-oriented industrial policies oriented towards sustainable development and ecological and environmental protection play a pivotal role in the enhancement of energy use efficiency. This paper employs a sample of 196 Chinese cities from 2005 to 2020 to examine the impact and path of energy efficiency in National Eco-Industrial Demonstration Parks (EIDPs), a representative green location-oriented policy. The analysis employs the time-varying difference-in-differences method (TV-DID). The findings of this study indicate that the EIDPs exerts a considerable influence on urban energy efficiency, with an effect size of 0.5644. This conclusion remains valid following a series of robustness tests, including the parallel trend test, the placebo test, the PSM-DID methodology, the heterogeneity treatment effect test, the exclusion of other policy interferences, and the sample data screening. The mechanism of action test demonstrated that EIDPs exert a significant impact on urban energy efficiency through three transmission paths: enhancing environmental regulation, promoting green technological innovation, and upgrading industrial structure. The heterogeneity test demonstrated that EIDPs can play a significant role in promoting energy efficiency in cities that are not old industrial bases, non-resource-based, and where the demonstration parks have already been created. Nevertheless, this role is less discernible in cities that are established industrial centers, resource-based cities, and cities where the demonstration parks are currently being established.
Unintended Pregnancy and Contraceptive Use Among Residents of Slum and Non-Slum Areas in Kinshasa, DRC: A Comparative Analysis Using PMA Survey Data (2014-2020)
Authors: Kabasubabo Francis K. , Faye Cheikh , Wado Yohannes D. , Akilimali Pierre Z. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Urbanization is rapidly increasing worldwide, with slum settlements emerging as a significant concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo. This study examines contraceptive use and unintended pregnancies among women residing in slum and non-slum areas of Kinshasa between 2014 and 2020.
We analyzed data from the Performance Monitoring for Action survey conducted between 2014 and 2020, encompassing 19,568 women. Logistic regression, adjusted for socio-demographic factors, was used to assess the association between residence type (slum vs. non-slum) and contraceptive use as well as unintended pregnancies.
Results indicate a rise in contraceptive prevalence in Kinshasa from 2014 to 2020, with slum areas consistently exhibiting higher prevalence rates compared to non-slum areas. Long-term contraceptive method prevalence increased from 4% to 8% in slum areas, contrasting with the stable rate of approximately 3% in non-slum areas over the same period. Although there was a decline in unintended pregnancy prevalence in slum areas in recent years, rates remain elevated compared to non-slum areas.
In bivariate analysis, women residing in slum areas were twice as likely to report unintended pregnancies compared to those in non-slum areas (OR: 2.33; 95% CI; 2.008 – 2.698). However, after adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, residence type (slum vs. non-slum) did not significantly influence the occurrence of unintended pregnancies.
These findings underscore the persistent challenges faced by women in slum areas regarding unintended pregnancies, despite improvements in contraceptive prevalence. Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions tailored to the specific needs of urban populations, particularly those residing in slum settlements.
Early inoculation of a multi-species probiotic to piglets – impact on gut microbiome and immune responses
Authors: Hansen Lea Hübertz Birch , Lauridsen Charlotte , Nielsen Bea , Jørgensen Lisbeth , Schönherz Anna A. , Canibe Nuria 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background:
Intestinal diseases in nursery pigs cause poor performance and health as well as constitute a risk for development of antimicrobial resistance. Research points towards early life serving as a period of physiological plasticity rendering interventive strategies, why the objective of this study was to assess the effect of early inoculation of a probiotic multi-species product to newborn piglets on their ability to overcome weaning and the intestinal challenges that follows. The probiotic product consisted of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Enterococcus faecium, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis and Bifidobacterium breve and was orally administered to the newborn piglets daily until day 4, subsequently every 2nd day until weaning on day 28 (4x109 CFU/dose). The Control group was administered a placebo mixture.
Results:
Alpha diversity indices showed that the Probiotic pigs had a lower diversity index in feces on day 7, whereas the Shannon diversity was higher in feces on day 28 and in intestinal content on day 23. Nested PERMANOVA on Bray-Curtis distance metrics analysis demonstrated alterations in microbial diversity in intestinal content and tissue as well as in feces between the two treatment groups on day 35 after cessation of probiotic administration. Most zOTUs found to significantly differentiate the two treatment groups were found pre-weaning. Bifidobacterium breve, Lactobacillus salivarius as well as Clostridium ramosum stood out by being significantly more abundant in feces of Probiotic pigs more than once. The Probiotic pigs had a higher expression of MUC2, IL-8, and IL-17 post-weaning, whereas the acute phase protein SAA was downregulated. Incidence of diarrhea during the first week after weaning was lower in the Probiotic group. Furthermore, Probiotic pigs had a lower concentration of cadaverine in intestinal content as well as a lower percentwise increase in white blood cells from pre- to post-weaning.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, early probiotic inoculation may drive a long-term immunomodulation through changes in specific microbial antigens, leading to higher resilience during challenging situations such as weaning. An interesting finding was that the effect of the early probiotic inoculation was observed after weaning and cessation of the probiotic product.
A global trophic functional analysis of estuary-associated fishes
Authors: Harrison Trevor , Whitfield Alan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The global trophic structure and trophic level of estuarine-associated fishes was analysed in relation to biogeographic and selected environmental parameters. Meta-assemblages of estuary-associated fishes were collated at the marine ecoregion level and were analysed at a broad biogeographic (bioregion) level. The fish assemblages were compared based on feeding mode functional groups (guilds) and fish trophic levels. Relationships between these guilds and fish trophic levels and selected environmental characteristics and fish functional attributes were also examined. Significant differences were observed between bioregions in the relative species contribution of functional groups and their trophic levels. Sea surface temperature, which is often related to latitude, appeared to be a major factor associated with the relative contribution and trophic levels of estuary-associated fishes within each bioregion. Zoobenthivores dominated the species composition in all bioregions, highlighting the importance of the benthic food chain in estuarine fish communities. The relative contribution of detritivores, herbivores, and omnivores declined from tropical bioregions to cool-temperate bioregions, with the trophic level of these groups of fishes also increasing from tropical to cool-temperate ecoregions. This trend was linked to the diversity and ability of detritivorous fishes to process low quality (trophic level) food at low latitudes. The relative contribution and trophic level of zooplanktivores increased from tropical to cool-temperate bioregions; this related to higher zooplankton abundance and quality associated with temperate regions. The relative contribution of piscivorous fishes exhibited a decline from tropical to cool-temperate bioregions but the trophic level of this group showed the opposite trend. Through consuming high quality (trophic level) food, piscivores are able to occupy and thrive in cool-temperate estuarine habitats. Generalised estuarine food webs that contrast tropical and cool-temperate bioregions are also presented, with the key role of detritus in conferring stability to estuarine food webs being emphasized.
Genome-wide Survey of Crataegus scabrifolia Provides New Insights into Its Genetic Evolution and Adaptation Mechanisms
Authors: Wang Baozheng , Wu Xien , Luo Dengli , Chen Jian , Zhang Yingmin , Li Guodong , Zhang Ticao 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Crataegus scabrifolia is a significant botanical resource in Southwest China, renowned for its medicinal properties and high potential for development due to its rich medicinal components. However, genomic research on C. scabrifolia remains limited. This study conducted a comprehensive genome-wide survey of C. scabrifolia, employing flow cytometry in conjunction with genome K-mer analysis to assess its genomic characteristics in detail. Our findings reveal that despite a genome size similar to cultivated hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida var. major), C. scabrifolia exhibits a significantly lower heterozygosity rate of 0.5% compared to 1.77% in cultivated varieties. Additionally, we identified transposable elements comprising 51.79% of the assembled genome, with retrotransposons accounting for 35.05% of the total genome. Transposon analysis elucidated the genomic characteristics of transposons in C. scabrifolia, suggesting a mode of increase similar to that observed in cultivated hawthorn. Furthermore, this study identified numerous SSR marker loci and annotated the functions of single-copy genes, providing insights into C. scabrifolia 's adaptive strategies and genetic stability under varying environmental conditions. These findings offer crucial tools and resources for further genotype selection, genetic analysis, and breeding improvements.
“We provide the methods to others but we don’t use the methods ourselves”: Challenges with utilization of modern contraception among Female Healthcare Workers at two tertiary teaching hospitals, Northern Uganda
Authors: Opee Jimmyy , Opiro Keneth , Manano Priscilla , Sikoti Margret , Ayikoru Jackline , Akello Harriet , Laker Fiona Gladys , Wolters Maria K , Awor Silvia , Pebolo Francis Pebalo , Bongomin Felix 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Female Healthcare Workers (FHCWs) play a crucial role in advocating for and delivering modern contraceptive methods (MCM) to reproductive-age women. Despite the high frequency of women seeking healthcare annually, less than half receive adequate contraceptive counseling and services. Investigating FHCWs' adherence to these practices and understanding the obstacles they encounter is essential. This study aimed to identify factors influencing utilization and explore challenges faced by FHCWs in providing modern contraception counseling and services at the two major hospitals in Gulu, Northern Uganda.
Methods
We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study employing a qualitative approach at St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor (SMHL) and Gulu Regional Referral Hospital (GRRH), Northern Uganda. Qualitative data were explored using the principles of descriptive phenomenology to gain deeper insights into the experiences of twenty (20) FHCWs.
Results
Findings revealed various challenges faced by FHCWs, including patient barriers such as religious beliefs, contraceptive myths, fear of side effects, and provider barriers like lack of knowledge, training, and discomfort. Additionally, health system barriers like limited time and competing priorities were identified.
Conclusion
Utilization of MCM among FHCWs is lower than the national average. Efforts should focus on enhancing contraceptive services, particularly in faith-based facilities and among married individuals. Addressing perceived barriers at the patient, provider, and system levels through comprehensive health education, ensuring method availability, and provider training is imperative.
Geographical mapping of colorectal cancer incidence risk factors in the United States using statistical and machine learning approaches
Authors: Palliyaguru Nipuni , Chennamangalam Jayanth , Liyanage Sanka , Wellalage Basitha Kavinga Hewa , Arangala Crista , Armstrong Nicole M. , Palliyaguru Dushani L. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the US. Previous studies have identified several behavioral, biological and environmental risk factors of CRC. Within the US, there are several geographical regions with poorer CRC outcomes compared to others - indicating possible geographical variations in CRC risk factor occurrence. To quantitatively assess this, we examined US county-level CRC data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) program and risk factor prevalence data from Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) (obesity, diabetes, smoking, low physical activity, alcohol use, and low screening). Additionally, we also examined environmental risk factors (particulate matter and pesticide use). We used linear regression models and machine learning methods, e.g., decision tree and random forest to quantify predictors of CRC incidence. Our regression analyses indicated that low physical activity, obesity, low screening and smoking were highly correlated with and co-occurred in counties with high CRC incidence. Low physical activity and obesity were significantly correlated with CRC incidence in both urban and rural counties. Decision tree and random forest algorithms showed that obesity, low screening and low physical activity were the most important predictors of CRC incidence in US county-level data. Addressing these risk factors is therefore a critical component of CRC prevention and mitigation efforts at the geographical level.
Experimental setup for the determination of spectral normal emissivity of conductive materials in the wavelength range of 1-18 µm and the temperature range of 300 - 1700 o C in the air
Authors: Mironov R. A. , Kryukov A. E. , Zabezhaylov A. O. , Zabezhaylov M. O. , Rusin M. Y. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This article describes the measurement procedure and data processing features of an apparatus for measuring the spectral emissivity of electrically conductive opaque materials in the air. The developed laboratory setup has the following three main features: induction heating of the sample, correction in order to exclude the surrounding radiation reflected by the sample, and the use of multiwavelength pyrometry. Single-sided induction heating of the sample eliminates the contribution of stray radiation from the heating element to the recorded signal. The correction on surrounding radiation increases the accuracy of emissivity determination, especially at low temperatures. The multiwavelength pyrometry is used to obtain the true temperature of a sample. This technique makes it possible to obtain the surface temperature of the sample directly from its thermal radiation spectrum, allowing to examine the material during the oxidation process. The emissivity spectra of zirconium and hafnium diboride samples were measured with the created setup. The obtained spectra reveal several features, which correlate with chemical transformations on the surface of the materials during oxidation.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Healthcare Professionals' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding the CHS-DRG Payment Policy in Yunnan Province: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis
Authors: Yang Jian , Qin Dan , Li Fan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals in Yunnan Province, China, regarding the China Healthcare Security Diagnosis Related Groups (CHS-DRG) payment policy in the context of value-based healthcare using a structural equation model.
Methods
The study was conducted among healthcare professionals in Yunnan Province from March 2023 to May 2023. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the CHS-DRG payment policy. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the hypothesized relationships among the variables. Data analysis and statistical description were performed using SPSS 27.0, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was constructed and analyzed using AMOS 26.0.
Results
A total of 357 healthcare professionals from 30 medical institutions participated in the study. The results of the SEM analysis showed that knowledge and attitudes significantly influenced the practices regarding the CHS-DRG payment policy (β = 0.36, p < 0.001 and β = 0.46, p < 0.001 respectively), and the direct effect of attitudes on practices was stronger than that of knowledge on practices. Moreover, knowledge not only directly affected practices (β = 0.934, p = 0.001) but also indirectly influenced practices through attitudes (β = 0.462, p = 0.001), with a total effect of 1.396. In addition, demographic characteristics had a positive impact on healthcare professionals' CHS-DRG payment policy knowledge (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
This study reveals that healthcare professionals in Yunnan Province show moderate knowledge, positive attitudes, and influenced practices toward the CHS-DRG payment policy. Challenges and barriers exist, requiring collaborative efforts from policymakers and healthcare professionals to ensure effective implementation. Targeted interventions and longitudinal studies are recommended to improve understanding, promote value-based healthcare, and evaluate outcomes and costs.
SANS investigation of fungal loosenins reveal substrate dependent impacts of protein 1 action on inter-fibril distance and packing order of cellulosic substrates
Authors: Dahiya Deepika , Péter-Szabó Zsuzsanna , Senanayake Manjula , Pingali Sai Venkatesh , Leite Wellington C. , Byrnes James , Buchko Garry W. , Sivan Pramod , Vilaplana Francisco , Master Emma , O'Neill Hugh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Microbial expansin-related proteins include fungal loosenins, which have been previously shown to disrupt cellulose networks and enhance the enzymatic conversion of cellulosic substrates. Despite showing beneficial impacts to cellulose processing, detailed characterization of cellulosic materials after loosenin treatment is lacking. In this study, small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) was used to investigate the effects of three recombinantly produced loosenins that originate from Phanerochaete carnosa, PcaLOOL7, PcaLOOL9, and PcaLOOL12, on the organization of holocellulose preparations from Eucalyptus and Spruce wood samples.
Results: Whereas the SANS analysis of Spruce holocellulose revealed an increase in interfibril spacing of neighboring cellulose microfibrils following treatment with PcaLOOL12 and to a lesser extent PcaLOOL7, the analysis of Eucalyptus holocellulose revealed a reduction in packing number following treatment with PcaLOOL12 and to a lesser extent PcaLOOL9. Parallel SEC-SAXS characterization of PcaLOOL7, PcaLOOL9, and PcaLOOL12 indicated the proteins likely function as monomers; moreover, all appear to retain a flexible disordered N-terminus and folded C-terminal region. The comparatively high impact of PcaLOOL12 motivated its NMR structural characterization, revealing a double-psi b-barrel (DPBB) domain surrounded by three alpha-helices - the largest nestled against the DPBB core and the other two part of loops extending from the core.
Conclusions: The SANS analysis of PcaLOOL action on holocellulose samples confirms their ability to disrupt cellulose fiber networks and suggests a progression from reducing microfibril packing to increasing interfibril distance. The most impactful PcaLOOL, PcaLOOL12, was previously observed to be the most highly expressed loosenin in P. carnosa. Its structural characterization herein reveals its stabilization through two disulfide linkages, and an extended N-terminal region distal to a negatively charged and surface accessible polysaccharide binding groove.
Enhancing Cloud Data Security Through Long- Term Secret Sharing Schemes
Authors: Ahrache Sara Ibn El , BADIR HASSAN 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Cloud computing has experienced significant growth in recent years, becoming a cornerstone of modern IT infrastructure. Promising "infinite scalability and unlimited resources," cloud service providers offer on-demand access that often obscures the underlying computing infrastructure. The inherent complexity of virtualized, multi-tenant cloud environments surpasses that of traditional data centers, complicating service management, particularly in terms of security. Despite these challenges, the appealing features of cloud computing have led many organizations to adopt cloud storage services for their critical data. Users can store data remotely in the cloud and access it via thin clients when needed. However, data security remains a paramount concern due to the internet-based nature of cloud services, which limits user control over stored data. This paper proposes an innovative approach to enhance data security in cloud environments through a Long-Term Secret Sharing Scheme (SSS-LT). Secret sharing schemes partition and distribute data across multiple cloud service providers, thereby increasing data privacy and availability. Our proposed SSS-LT addresses a key limitation of existing secret sharing methods: the degradation of computational performance with large data sets. We conduct a theoretical analysis of the security and complexity factors influencing our approach and validate its efficacy through experimental evaluation, demonstrating its superiority over existing methods.