bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Hotspots of Beach Litter in the North-East Atlantic Linked to Aquaculture and River Runoff
Authors: Rieger Niclas , Olmedo Estrella , Thiel Martin , Salvo Vanessa Sarah , Honorato-Zimmer Daniela , Vásquez Nelson , Turiel Antonio , Piera Jaume 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Anthropogenic beach litter presents a significant environmental challenge, particularly in the north-east Atlantic. Understanding temporal variations is crucial for identifying pollution sources and developing effective policies. However, in-situ data from beach surveys are irregular, both spatially and temporally, and subject to high variability, complicating robust statistical conclusions. This study employs a Bayesian machine learning framework to investigate seasonal variations, identify regional hotspots and elucidate their anthropogenic drivers. Using data from 3,866 surveys across 168 beaches, we leverage a spatial log-Gaussian Cox Process to enhance statistical inference by incorporating information from nearby beaches. Our analysis reveals distinct seasonal patterns, with winter and spring exhibiting the highest pollution levels. Significant regional variances are observed, with pronounced seasonal hotspots along the western Iberian Peninsula, French coastline, Irish Sea, and Skagerrak region. Further investigation into the sources of this litter links riverine emissions and aquaculture activities to the observed seasonal peaks, highlighting their notable impact on beach pollution. This study underscores the need for enhanced monitoring and targeted management strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of macroplastic pollution. Our findings advocate for seasonal monitoring to pinpoint and effectively manage litter hotspots, emphasizing the importance of addressing aquaculture-related plastic emissions.
First report of the occurrence of wireworm (Lanelater fuscipes) (Fabricius) as a pest in different field crops in India
Authors: T ANANDMURTHY , Tippannavar P. S. , Anandkumar V , Matti M. V. , Dileepkumar N. T , Divyashree H. J. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Wireworm belongs to the Coleoptera order in the family Elateridae and is primarily located in Northern Karnataka, India. Recently, this highly successful pest was observed infesting maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion crops, marking a new record of insect infestation. The pest causes damage to seeds, roots, stems, tubers and other plant parts by feeding, chewing or drilling into below-ground plant structures. This damage enhances secondary infections with plant diseases (bacteria or fungi), leading to plants that either fail to emerge or to produce good growth. The initial sighting of this insect occurred in various districts of Northern Karnataka, India. However, during a thorough two-year investigation from 2020 to 2021, it was found spreading to neighbouring areas. Consequently, without timely control measures, it poses a significant threat to various crops in Karnataka and adjoining areas. A survey was carried out in farmers' fields at regular intervals during crop growth. The host range and per cent incidence of wireworm were noted on various crops, including maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion. Relatively higher incidence was noticed in maize at the seedling stage, in groundnut at both the germination as well as pod-filling stages and in sugarcane at the germination stage. However, in ginger and onion, higher incidence was recorded during the vegetative stage. Irrespective of the crop, wireworm incidence ranged from 20.93 to 37.16 percent. Wireworm grubs were collected from fields and sent to the All India Network Project on Soil Arthropods, for identification. They were identified as Lanelater fuscipes.
Description of Encyonemataceae fam. nov. and Witkowskiaceae fam. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Cymbellales) based on molecular and morphological analyses
Authors: Mironov Andrei , Maltsev Yevhen , Kociolek John Patrick , Kulikovskiy Maxim 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this study, based on the results of molecular analysis of SSU rRNA and rbcL sequences, we propose the descriptions of two new families in the order Cymbellales. Molecular data demonstrates that diatoms of the genus Encyonema constitute an independent monophyletic clade, which represents a new family described herein – Encyonemataceae fam. nov. Another family introduced in this article, with regards to molecular data, is Witkowskiaceae fam. nov. In our research, it is comprised of three closely related genera – Geissleria, Paraplaconeis and Witkowskia. The results of performed molecular investigation are supported by morphological analysis. Morphological diagnoses of the new families are based on a combination of features: type of valve symmetry, raphe structure, presence and position of stigmata or stigmoids, number and location of apical pore fields and morphology of chloroplast. In addition, we discuss the phylogeny of selected genera of the order Cymbellales. In addition, based on their morphology, 3 and 5 genera are assigned with provisionary position in Encyonemataceae fam. nov. and Witkowskiaceae fam. nov., respectively.
Thangka Super-Resolution Diffusion Model Based on DCT-Upsample and High-Frequency Focused Attention
Authors: Chen Xin , Ji Liqi , Wang Zhen , Yang Yunbo , Zhang Xinyang , Wang Nianyi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Thangka is a traditional Tibetan painting art form, possessing profound cultural significance and a unique artistic style. Image super-resolution technology, as an effective means of digital preservation and restoration, plays an important role in maintaining the integrity and heritage of Thangka art. However, existing image super-resolution methods cannot be used for Thangka images due to the following reasons: (1) Thangka images are large in size and rich in content, making it difficult for existing models to restore the original textures of degraded Thangka images. (2) Thangka images have intricate textures, so the high-resolution Thangka images reconstructed by existing methods, which perform well on objective metrics, perform poorly in terms of human visual perception (HVP). To overcome these challenges, a Frequency-Domain Enhanced Diffusion Super-Resolution (FDEDiff) is proposed, consisting of three parts: (1) a High-Frequency Focused Cross Attention Mechanism (HFC-Attention), which can separate high-frequency features of images to guide the attention mechanism, improving the reconstruction quality of high-frequency details in the diffusion model; (2) a DCT Domain Padding Upsample (DCT-Upsample), which performs upsampling in the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) domain and improves the reconstruction of dense line areas in Thangka images by fully utilizing global information; (3) for the first time, we construct a Thangka image super-resolution dataset, which contains 82,688 pairs of 512 × 512 images. Qualitative and quantitative experiments demonstrate that the proposed method achieves satisfactory high-resolution reconstruction results on Thangka images. Dataset is available at https://github.com/cvlabdatasets/ThangkaDatasets.
The NADH dehydrogenase subunit Ⅳ resistance overexpression in Aedes albopictus causes fitness penalties associated with mitochondrial respiratory deficiency
Authors: Zhou Xiangrong , Ma Lulu , Jiang Dingxin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Our previous study has shown that the inheritance of dimefluthrin resistance in Ae. albopictus is codominant inherited completely maternally by reciprocal crosses. In this study, we found that NADH dehydrogenase subunit Ⅳ (ND4) gene was overexpressed in the resistant strain. Subsequently, when RNAi technology was used to suppress the ND4 gene expression in the resistant strain, the resistance of Ae. albopictus also decreased significantly. Meanwhile, it was found that the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex and Na+, K+-ATPase in the resistant strain were higher than in the susceptible strain, but the ATP content was lower. However, the activities of complex Ⅰ, V and Na+, K+-ATPase in the resistant strain decreased significantly after interference, while the ATP content increased significantly. Therefore, we demonstrated that ND4 gene was involved in the resistance of Ae. albopictus to dimefluthrin, and ND4 was related to the resistance by affecting the respiratory chain system. In addition, we evaluated the fitness cost of female mosquitoes of both strains and found that the resistant strain was diapause and shortened lifespan, and speculated the fitness cost of dimefluthrin-resistant Ae. albopictus was due to the uneven energy consumption in the body.
Evaluation of Titanium Dioxide/Catechol Polyurethane Composite for Antimicrobial Resistance, and Wastewater Treatment
Authors: El-Harairey Mona , Moawed Elhossein , Saad Hoda , Elafndi Rokaya , Eissa Mai , El-Zahed Mohamed , Sadda Rana El 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this study, a novel approach for the environmentally conscious extraction of titanium dioxide (TiO2) from ilmenite ore while limiting the environmental impact and enhancing the advantage from an economic process. Leaching conditions were tested with different acids for effective separation of the TiO2 and were optimized concerning different experimental parameters. TiO2 and TiO2NPs were characterized using with different tools. Catechol polyurethane foam immobilized with TiO2NPs (CAT-PUF/TiO2) was prepared and its antimicrobial action was tested against Gram-negative Bacterium E. coli, Gram-positive bacterium B. cereus, and fungus A. niger. CAT-PUF /TiO2 showed antimicrobial effect against E. coli, B. cereus, and A. niger with inhibition zones of 27 ± 0.14, 12 ± 0.14, and 22 ± 0.06 mm, respectively. Incorporating bioinformatics, this research contributes to the burgeoning field of nanotechnology-enabled antimicrobial materials, offering insights into the potential applications of CAT-PUF/TiO2 in combating microbial threats. Through bio-informatics tools, the potential toxicity of the synthesized nanoparticles was assessed, providing valuable insights into their safety profile and environmental impact. Furthermore, simulating the binding affinity between the nanoparticles and target biomolecules, such as cell membrane proteins or enzyme receptors, this aspect of the research sheds light on the mechanistic underpinnings of their antimicrobial efficacy.
Unrevealing the structure and properties of α-sheet-based bilayer borophenes
Authors: Rakshit Subrata , Szwacki Nevill Gonzalez 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Recent experimental realizations of bilayer boron materials motivated us to study the structure and properties of α-sheet-based bilayer borophenes with interlayer covalent bonds. As shown here, at least three stacking variations are possible: AA, AB, and AB'. The on-top AA-stacking has been obtained experimentally. The AB-stacking is the most stable among neutral freestanding structures, whereas the AA and AB' stacking sequences are very close in energy, both for neutral and negatively charged cases. The studied bilayer borophenes exhibit extraordinarily high electric conductivity with values as high as ~107 S/m for the experimentally observed AA-stacking. The highly stable AB-stacking bilayer, reported here for the first time, exhibits an anisotropic conductivity with an average value of 6.0 x 106 S/m.
Status of Student Internship Programs and Policies in Higher Learning Institutions of Sierra Leone
Authors: Fayiah Moses 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The ninth sustainable development goal is focused on job provision and employment generation for all especially university graduates. The aim for this study was to investigate the status of internship programmes and associated policies in higher learning institutions across Sierra Leone. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. This included a desk study of critical tertiary education institutions internship statuses, their policies, acts, regulations and government educational reports. The results show that majority of tertiary institutions visited had fully operational internship programmes while 24% were yet to start the implementation of internship programmes. According to the results; two types of internship training were discovered during the study and they are: (1) Credit based university internship programme (this programme in solely undertake by higher learning institutions in exchange for credit/grade) (2); employment promotion internships (this internship is undertaken by National Youth Service Commission. Majority of students interviewed said internship is part of their academic curriculum and that all internship programmes they undertake are unpaid and without any medical or safety insurance policy. The study further revealed that some internships are done internally at learning institutions while others are carried at government, private, NGO and international organizations. Nonetheless, not all university faculties or unit undertakes internship programmes as internship was not mandatory for some faculties. The study also revealed that internship activity duration differs greatly across higher learning institutions in Sierra Leone. Some institutions send their students for few weeks while others send students for months in the field. The study concludes that, financial, accommodation, inadequate intern’s placement institutions and the unwillingness of some host institutions is the major challenge facing higher learning institutions internship programs across Sierra Leone. Constructive dialogue with educational stakeholders and students discovered that internships are the missing links in the tertiary education system of Sierra Leone and that the absence of internship training and experience from higher learning institutions are the limiting factors in building student’s confidence after graduation. It is recommended that quality assurance procedures through internship should be developed and strengthened by Tertiary Education Commission and National Council Technical and Vocational Awards for student productivity through internship.
Psychological differences in food addiction and binge eating in non-clinical population
Authors: Różycka Jagoda , Nowacki Ari , Stojek Monika M. , Łukowska Marta , Sokołowska Maryla , Zielińska Joanna , Duszkiewicz Roksana 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of food addiction (FA) and binge eating (BE) in a nonclinical population, to explore the differences between these constructs, and to examine psychological differences among individuals with any disordered eating pattern (FA, BE, and FA+BE groups).
Participants aged 18 to 55 completed the questionnaires: Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS 2.0), Binge Eating Scale (BES), The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), Life Events Checklist, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), Short Impulsive Behaviour Scale (SUPPS-P), Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Out of 2123 records, 492 participants met the criteria for FA, BE, or both diagnoses.
The present study showed that FA and BE symptoms are common in the general population. The FA, BE and FA+BE groups differed from the control group with respect to the YFAS score, BES score, BMI, negative urgency, restrained eating, emotional eating, depression, anxiety, stress, ACE, PCL, and LEC scores. On all those scales, participants with at least one eating disorder achieved significantly higher scores. The FA+BE group presented the most severe pattern of behavioral and emotional symptoms, followed by the FA group and then the BE group with the least amount of symptoms.
This study supports the operationalization of food addiction. FA is a broader concept than BED, with individuals experiencing both indicating the greatest functional difficulties. Trauma-related experiences frequently accompanied the symptoms, providing insight into disordered eating mechanisms. Future research should include the treatment implications of food addiction for BE patients.
Healthy Body or Pleasing Physique? A Comparison of Food Headlines Between Men’s Health and Women’s Health Magazines (2015-2019)
Authors: Henderson Sarah , Dukeshire Steven 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Gender roles continue to change and evolve, including in the realm of sport that by its very nature tends to highlight the body in relation to health, fitness, and appearance. Even though newspaper and magazine headlines may prominently reflect societal norms and frames pertaining to gender, food, and health, there is a paucity of studies theorizing and/or examining the role or influence of headlines found on magazine covers related to food and gender. In the current study, a content analysis of headlines pertaining to food on the covers of fifty Women’s Health and fifty Men’s Health magazines (2015–2019) revealed that headlines from Men’s Health featured the need for men to build powerful muscle mass through consuming foods, beverages, and supplements high in protein. Snacks, drinks, supplements, and easy meals were promoted to men seemingly unable or unwilling to cook. On the other hand, headlines from Women’s Health promoted weight loss without any muscular gain achieved through preparing and consuming meals rather than relying on supplements and beverages. In both magazines, headlines implied the path to good health and an admired physique can be attained through a diet largely devoid of healthy food. Thus, rather than moving societal frames towards creating a more egalitarian society between males and females as the co-existence of these two highly similar magazines would suggest, the food headlines from Women’s Health and Men’s Health seemingly achieve just the opposite by activating and reinforcing (outdated) societal gender roles and stereotypes.
Finite Element Analysis of Prosthetic Liner Materials for Transfemoral Amputees: Biomechanical Behavior Under Dynamic Loads
Authors: Messaad Taieb 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Transfemoral amputees face the need for prosthetic devices following amputation surgery, including the socket, pylon, and foot. Modern socket designs often incorporate an intervening liner to assist with cushioning needs. Such liners have a crucial role in terms of patient safety and comfort. This study investigates the impact of different prosthetic liner materials on relative stresses at the stump-prosthesis interface in transfemoral amputations by Finite Element Analysis. Using a computational model of a virtual patient, the work probes the biomechanical behavior under dynamic loads associated with normal walking, climbing up stairs, and down stairs. Specifically, memory-foam, flexible polyurethane foam, and gel type liners were evaluated based on their material properties. Variations in vertical displacement, contact pressure, and longitudinal shear stress were quantified across the different activities for each liner type. Results suggested that the polyurethane foam material performed the best at minimizing stresses and providing comfort across activities, making the flexible polyurethane foam the most promising liner material tested.
The subventricular zone neurogenic niche provides adult born functional neurons to repair cortical brain injuries in response to diterpenoid therapy
Authors: Pardillo-Díaz Ricardo , Pérez-García Patricia , Ortego-Domínguez María , Gómez-Oliva Ricardo , Martínez-Gómez Nora , Domínguez-García Samuel , García-Cózar Francisco , Muñoz-Miranda Juan Pedro , Hernández-Galán Rosario , Carrascal Livia , Castro Carmen , Nunez-Abades Pedro 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

INTRODUCTION.
Neural stem cells from the subventricular zone (SVZ) neurogenic niche provide neurons that integrate in the olfactory bulb circuitry. However, in response to cortical injuries, the neurogenic activity of the SVZ is significantly altered, leading to increased number of neuroblasts with a modified migration pattern that leads cells towards the site of injury. Despite the increased neurogenesis and migration, many newly generated neurons fail to survive or functionally integrate into the cortical circuitry. Providing the injured area with the adequate signaling molecules may improve both migration and functional integration of newly generated neurons.
METHODS.
In here, we have studied the effect of a diterpene with the capacity to induce neuregulin release at promoting neurogenesis in a murine model of cortical brain injury. Using green fluorescence protein expressing vectors we have labeled SVZ cells and have studied the migration of newly generated neuroblasts toward the injury in response the treatment. In addition, using electrophysiological recordings we have studied the differentiation of these neuroblasts into mature neurons and their functional integration into the cortical circuitry. We have studied their electrical properties, their morphology and cortical location.
RESULTS.
We have found that EOF2 treatment of adult mice with mechanical cortical injuries facilitates the delivery of neuroblasts into these injuries. The newly generated neurons develop features of fully functional neurons. Our results show that the newly generated neurons receive electrical inputs, fire action potentials, and undergo complete differentiation into neurons recapitulating the stages that distinguish ontogenic differentiation. These neurons develop features representative of neurons belonging the cortical layer in which they are situated. We have also studied that EOF2 facilitates neuregulin release in SVZ cells, a signaling factor that promotes neuronal differentiation. Neuregulin is expressed in microglial cells that reach the injury in response to the damage and its release is increased by EOF2 treatment.
CONCLUSION.
Promoting neuregulin release via diterpene treatment facilitates migration of SVZ-derived neuroblasts to cortical injuries stimulating their differentiation into mature functional neurons, which receive electrical inputs and develop features of cortical neurons. These findings highlight the role of diterpenoids as a potential therapy to repair cortical brain injuries.
Design and development of IoT-based wearable smart Exo-Vest for analysis of upper limb dynamics
Authors: Chakraborty Pritam , Neogi Biswarup , Das Achintya 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This article describes the principles of design and development of an IoT- based wearable smart Exo-Vest (SWEV), which is used for monitoring upper limb exercises. Sensor positions, connectivity of electronic circuits, data collections along with development of real-time integrated Web-App for remote monitoring are performed. Data collected from different actors are analyzed, compared with a professional EMG recorder (RMS EMG EpMK2) and it is found that the comparative performance of our model of Exo-Vest is nearly similar to the standard EMG module. These findings highlight ExoVest's potential for real-time upper limb muscle activity monitoring, offering cost-effective muscle health management in various work environments.