bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diversity and threats to large and medium-sized mammals in the northeastern part of the Mbangassina council forest, centre Cameroon
Authors: Kamgang Serge Alexis , Dongmo Ervis Manfothang , Tchoutezou Guy Herman Zanguim , Nanfack Steve Tassiamba , Ngankam Martin Tchamba 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the diversity, abundance, and major threats to large- and medium-sized mammal species in the Mbangassina Council Forest in Centre region of Cameroon. The purpose was to assist the municipality in implementing its local strategy for sustainable development. The data were collected between March 6 and April 22, 2022, using the line-transects distance sampling method and reconnaissance walks (recce). A total of 33 transects were covered, for a completion rate of 97.45% in the study area. The results of the study confirm the presence of nine species of large and medium mammals belonging to four orders, four families dominated by Artiodactyles. The large and medium-sized mammals recorded during our surveys included the black-backed duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis), yellow-backed duiker (Cephalophus silvicultor), pangolin (Manis sp.), moustached monkey (Cercopithecus cephus), sitatunga (Tragelphus spekii), civet (Civettictis civetta), blue duiker (Philantomba monticola), and red-flanked duiker (Cephalophus rufilatus). The diversity index was 0.99 for a total mammal Kilometric Abundance Index (KAI) of 0.51 indices/km. However, the study area recorded a total KAI of 0.31 individuals per kilometer for 21 indices of human presence.The high value of the observed diversity index reflects the ecological importance of this ecological entity for the Municipality of Mbangassina, and the authorities must intensify their protection effort to reduce illegal activities in these areas.
Role of the Indian Ocean dynamics in the Indonesian Throughflow variability and extremes
Authors: Li Yuanlong , Li Rui , Lyu Yilong , Sprintall Janet , Wang Fan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The Indonesian throughflow (ITF) regulates heat and freshwater distributions of the Indo-Pacific Oceans and fundamentally affects the climate. The past decade has witnessed acute interannual variations in the Makassar Strait – the main ITF inflow passage, reaching monthly extremes of 1.9 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s-1) in 2015 and 16.6 Sv in 2017, compared with a mean transport of ~12 Sv. The Pacific Ocean dynamics dictated by El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cannot fully explain these variations and the role of the Indian Ocean (IO) dynamics remains uncertain. Here, we use a 0.1°, quasi-global ocean model to cleanly isolate the impact of the IO dynamics on the ITF. The wind-driven IO dynamics are found to play a significant role in either buffering or driving ITF variability. The buffering effect is commonly seen during strong ENSO events, while the driving effect arises from Indian Ocean dipole (IOD) events independent of ENSO. Notably, the IO dynamics buffered the weak ITF extreme of 2015 by ~35% and contributed to the strong ITF extreme of 2017 by ~23%. Our study aids in the prediction of regional climate extremes under the intensifying ENSO and IOD scenarios expected in the future.
Evaluating the Impact of DFT based Speckle Reduction Filter on T3 Matrix Elements in Polarimetric SAR Imagery
Authors: Jain Vijal , Shitole Sanjay , Rahman Musfiq , Dhruv Ajay 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of a novel speckle reduction framework tailored for polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (PolSAR) data. The study investigates the framework's performance across various polarization data configurations, including Full Polarimetry (Full Pol) and Single Polarization (Single Pol), operating across different frequency bands such as L, and S band. With a specific focus on T3 matrix elements (T11, T12, T13, T22, T33, and T23) and full polarimetric (full pol) data, the primary objective is to conduct an in-depth comparative analysis of the proposed framework against established speckle reduction techniques. To achieve this, the proposed framework is rigorously compared with well-known methods such as Refined Lee, Lopez, Lee Sigma, Non-Local Means, and IDAN filters across the aforementioned polarization and frequency configurations. Performance evaluation is conducted using a diverse set of metrics, including Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), Equivalent Number of Looks (ENL), Coefficient of Variation (CV), Speckle Suppression Index (SSI), Speckle Suppression and Mean Preservation Index (SMPI), and Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM). The results of this evaluation demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed framework, with significant improvements in speckle reduction and preservation of image detail compared to existing techniques. These findings highlight the potential of the proposed framework as a valuable tool for the processing and analysis of PolSAR data across different polarization configurations and frequency bands, providing a comprehensive solution to the challenges posed by speckle noise in SAR imagery.
Limited contamination by trace metals in city colonies of the ant Temnothorax nylanderi
Authors: Gressler Marie , Bultelle Angélique , Doums Claudie , Molet Mathieu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In urban environments, trace metals are a widespread class of pollutants that represents a major threat to organisms. Contamination levels in insects differ greatly among habitats, and a basic assumption is that individual contamination depends, at least in part, on environmental contamination. Ants are major actors in ecosystems, but surprisingly little information is available on trace metal contamination of ants in urban environments. Ants could be particularly sensitive to their local environment due to sedentary nesting but their social life could limit contamination. In this study, we assessed whether city colonies of the ant Temnothorax nylanderi differed from forest colonies in their trace metal contamination, and we tested whether larger colonies tolerate pollution better, then showing a lower level of contamination. We collected ant colonies and soil from five city parks in Paris and five forests around Paris, and we measured the concentration of five trace metals (cadmium, copper, iron, lead and zinc). We found that despite living in a more contaminated habitat for cadmium, copper, zinc and lead, city colonies were not more contaminated than forest colonies, except for lead. Interestingly, for lead, contamination decreased when colony size increased, suggesting that living in large groups limits pollutant contamination. Our results suggest that city colonies manage to cope with most trace metals. We argue that analysing whole colonies is important to take into account social life.
Association between lipid-lowering agents with intervertebral disc degeneration, sciatica and low back pain: A drug-targeted Mendelian randomized study and cross-sectional observation
Authors: Liu Chenxu , Chu Xinqiao , Biao Yaning , Jin Qiubai , Zhang Yufang , gao Ya , Feng Shuo , Ma Ji-zheng , Zhang Yixin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Abnormal lipid metabolism is linked to intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), sciatica, and low back pain (LBP), but it remains unclear whethertargeted interventions can prevent these issues. This study investigated the causal effectsof lipid-lowering drug use on IVDD, sciatica, and LBP development.
Methods: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to total cholesterol (TC), low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) were obtained from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium's genome-wide association study (GWAS). Genes near HMGCR, PCSK9, and NPC1L1 were selected to represent therapeutic inhibition targets. Using Mendelian randomization (MR) studies focusing on these drug targets, we identified causal effects of PCSK9, HMGCR, and NPC1L1 on the risk of developing IVDD, sciatica, and LBP, with coronary heart disease risk serving as a positive control. Additionally, a cross-sectional observational study was performed using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to further investigate the connection between LBP and statin use, with a sample size of 4343 participants. Odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the outcomes.
Results: The NHANES-based cross-sectional study indicated that non-statin use was associated with an increased risk of developing LBP (OR = 1.29, 95% CI [1.04, 1.59], P = 0.019). Moreover, Inverse-variance weighting(IVW) analysis revealedthat NPC1L1-mediated reductions in TC, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C concentrations were associated with a decreased risk of developing IVDD (P=9.956E-03; P=3.516E-02; P=1.253E-04). Similarly, PCSK9-mediated reductions in LDL-C and TC concentrations were linked to a lower risk of developing sciatica (P=3.825E-02; P=2.709E-02). However, the colocalization analysis did not reveal any significant associations. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability and reliability of the MR results.
Conclusion: The results of cross-sectional study suggested that non-use of statins was positively correlated with LBP. The results of Mendelian randomization study suggest that NPC1L1 could lower the risk of developing IVDD by reducing TC, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C levels. Additionally, PCSK9 may reduce the risk of developing sciatica by lowering LDL-C and TC levels. In contrast, HMGCR appears to have no significant effect on IVDD, sciatica, or LBP development. Nonetheless, further research is needed to verify these preliminary results.
Automated neonatal hip ultrasound system for diagnosing developmental dysplasia of hips using assistive AI
Authors: Lee Young Seop , Kim Young Jae , Ryu Jeong Won , Kim Kwang Gi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) joint often do not exhibit clinical symptoms, and diagnosis in some cases relies solely on hip joint examination. There are several methods to examine the hip joint, with ultrasound being the simplest and most convenient diagnostic method. The Graff algorithm is commonly used to diagnose hip dysplasia by measuring angles at different landmarks in the hip region. This study utilized the SONON 300L device developed by Hilserion to acquire ultrasound images of the hip joints in 18 infants and children. Following classification, the standard planes were aligned with the Graf’s landmarks using an artificial intelligence (AI) model, and the landmark regions were subsequently segmented. Significant findings were observed in the ultrasound images, with a maximum area-under-the-curve of 0.864 and a Dice coefficient of 0.660. The Graf algorithm was employed to develop an automated model for diagnosing DDH, resulting in a DDH-assisted AI model with an average Graf angle error rate of 0.21 compared to expert diagnostics
Isolation and functional analysis of the Larix olgensis LoNAC3 transcription factor gene
Authors: Cao Qing , Hao Junfei , Zhang Tiantian , Liu Lu , Xu Daixi , Wang Chen , Zhao Qingrong , Zhang Hanguo , Zhang Lei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Larch is an important timber tree species. The traditional methods of tree genetic breeding have been progressing slowly. It is necessary to carry out gene function analysis and genetically modified breeding research. The NAC transcription factor family is a plant-specific transcription factor family with various biological functions, as shown in recent research. However, there are few studies on the NAC gene among gymnosperm coniferous species.
Results
LoNAC3 with complete cds was identified and isolated from the cDNA of Larix olgensis based on transcriptome data. The cDNA length of LoNAC3 is 1185bp, encoding 394 amino acids, with a conserved NAM domain located at the N-terminus, and subcellular localization in the nucleus. The results of real-time quantitative PCR analysis showed that the relative expression level of LoNAC3 was higher in the needles of L. olgensis, and the response to salt and drought treatment was more obvious. In addition, LoNAC3 was induced to express by methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and abscisic acid (ABA). By observing the phenotype of overexpressed LoNAC3 tobacco, it was found that overexpressed tobacco is shorter and blooms earlier than wild-type tobacco. Under abiotic stress, overexpressed tobacco has lower germination rates and poorer growth status. Transgenic tobacco under stress treatment has a higher malondialdehyde (MDA) content than wild-type tobacco, while peroxidase (POD) activity is lower than wild-type tobacco.
Conclusions
Through the analysis of LoNAC3 sequence and promoter expression, it can be concluded that LoNAC3 is involved in the drought and salt stress response processes of L. olgensis, and is induced by ABA and MeJA expression. Overexpression of LoNAC3 leads to stunted tobacco growth and negatively regulates its tolerance to drought and salt stress through the reactive oxygen species pathway. The preliminary analysis of the expression pattern and function of the LoNAC3 can provide a theoretical basis and high-quality materials for genetic improvement of larch in later stages.
Whole-brain functional photoacoustic/ultrasound localization (PAUL) imaging for monitoring blood-brain barrier modulation
Authors: Chen Yun-Sheng , Zhao Shensheng , Basu Sayantani , Shi Ji , Song Kewei , Siripun Pun , Huynh Huan , Zhao Yang , Campbell Roy 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Focused ultrasound (FUS) represents an innovative, non-invasive method for modulating the permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), allowing transient openings for therapeutic delivery. Yet, excessive BBB disruption risks cerebral damage and neurological symptoms. Current imaging techniques typically lack the ability to provide detailed hemodynamic data in tandem with BBB integrity assessments across whole brain regions. Here, we introduce a FUS-compatible, deep learning enhanced multi-parametric photoacoustic/ultrasound localization (PAUL) imaging method employing a clinical ultrasound linear array. This dual-modality technique enables comprehensive whole brain imaging through the intact skull, capturing brain microvasculature, changes in blood flow and oxygenation, as well as mapping the distribution of BBB permeability tracers. Our technology enables visualization of microvascular structures down to 22 µm and provides detailed tracking of blood flow dynamics at the single microvasculature level. Our results demonstrate that BBB modulation results in decreased blood flow and flow rate, especially in regions with high BBB permeable tracer retention. This indicates PAUL imaging can non-invasively monitor BBB disruption caused by FUS, offering a potential advancement in the management and understanding of BBB dynamics.
Evaluation and Prediction of the Ecological Environment Quality in the City Proper in Chongqing Based on the Improved Remote Sensing Ecological Index
Authors: Zhang Guolin , Kuang Honghai 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this study, the improved remote sensing ecological index (DRSEI) was utilized in the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform to assess and predict the ecological environment quality (EEQ) in the city proper of Chongqing from 2002 to 2022. The DRSEI was obtained by replacing the land surface temperature (LST) index in the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) with the difference index (DI), which represents the PM2.5 concentration. It was found that the DRSEI outperformed the RSEI in terms of the contribution of the first principal component, average correlation, and proximity to the ecosystem status index (EI). Using the DRSEI for EEQ assessment, it was found that the overall trend of the EEQ in the study area exhibited initially improved and then deteriorated. In addition, the EEQ was categorized into five levels: excellent, good, moderate, fair, and poor. The regions with excellent EEQ were predominantly situated between the eastern and southern areas, while those categorized as poor were mainly concentrated in the central region. Moreover, the mean centers of each level underwent a series of changes and ultimately tended to regress towards the vicinity of the central region. The modeling and prediction performance of the DRSEI determined using stepwise regression was excellent. Additionally, this paper discusses the reasons for the changes in the regression coefficients of each indicator. The DRSEI has significant advantages in improving the accuracy of EEQ assessment. Based on our analyses, we suggest that the DRSEI may provide more accurate evaluations in large-scale regions above the county level and in areas with lighter air pollution.
Spin Hall Nano-Antenna
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Supriyo , Fabiha Raisa , Pal Pratap , Suche Michael , Mondal Amrit , Topsakal Erdem , Barman Anjan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A spin Hall nano-oscillator (SHNO) is a well-known device that delivers a high frequency alternating current or voltage to a load1 and has found many technological applications. Here, we report its analogue – a spin Hall nano-antenna (SHNA) that radiates a high frequency electromagnetic wave (alternating electric/magnetic fields) into the surrounding medium. It can also radiate an acoustic wave in an underlying substrate if the nanomagnets are made of a magnetostrictive material, which makes it a dual electromagnetic/acoustic antenna. The SHNA is made of an array of ledged magnetostrictive nanomagnets deposited on a substrate, with a heavy metal nanostrip overlying the ledges. An alternating charge current passed through the nanostrip generates an alternating spin-orbit torque in the nanomagnets via the spin Hall effect2, 3 which makes their magnetizations oscillate in time with the frequency of the current, producing confined spin waves (magnons), which radiate electromagnetic waves (photons) in space with the same frequency as the ac current. Despite being much smaller than the radiated wavelength, the SHNA surprisingly does not act as a point source which would radiate isotropically. Instead, there is clear directionality (anisotropy) in the radiation pattern, which is also frequency-dependent. This is due to the intrinsic anisotropy in the confined spin wave patterns generated within the nanomagnets.
Spatiotemporal evolutions of gas pressures in coal seam during gas extraction under mining disturbance
Authors: Chen Yuexia , Chu Tingxiang , Chen Xuexi , Jiang Boning , Chen Peng , Cao Jialin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A 3D geometric model is established based on a fluid‒solid coupling model for purpose of identifying the influences of mining disturbances on the distribution of gas pressures in front of a working face during gas extraction. Then, the stress distribution and gas extraction process are simulated using COMSOL software. The spatiotemporal evolutions of gas pressures in front of the working face are analyzed from the dimensions of point, line, surface, and volume. A comparative analysis has been conducted to explore the distribution patterns of gas pressure in fractures and pores. The results show that under mining disturbance, the stresses in front of the working face create a stress-relaxation area, a stress concentration area, and an original stress area. Moreover, a low stress concentration is located near the boreholes. In the early stage of gas extraction, corresponding to the stress distribution, the gas pressures present a depressurization area, pressure concentration area, and almost undisturbed area. As the time increases after mining, the effects of mining disturbances gradually decrease, and the range of the gas pressure concentration area steadily shortens and shifts toward the front of the working face. Under the same temporal conditions, the gas pressure in pores is higher than that in fractures. At the onset of mining, the pore gas pressure is even greater than the initial pressure. Furthermore, during the identical extraction period, the "concentration area" of pore gas pressure is situated farther away from the coal wall of the working face compared to the "concentration area" of fracture gas pressure. These results of the study provide theoretical support for arranging drainage boreholes, enhancing gas extraction efficiency, safeguarding against gas accidents.
Ball Grid Array Solder Joints Thermal Profile Prediction and Recipe Optimization with Physics-Informed Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Zhenxuan , Li Yuanyuan , Yoon Sangwon , Park Seungbae , Won Daehan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Based on comparable research studies, the reflow process has been iden- tified as the most critical process to ensure the quality of solder joints on printed circuit boards (PCBs) manufactured using surface mounting technology (SMT). An example of this is the ball grid array (BGA), which is a package that has one face partially covered by pins in a grid pattern that is connected to the pads on the PCB. It is important to note that the solder joints for BGAs are located at the bottom of the package, as opposed to passive components. Because the cover case of the BGA blocks the convection heat from the air, the BGA joints require a greater amount of parasite conduction heat from the boards and pack- age cover. During the manufacturing process, solder paste manufacturers provide specifications, along with temperature curves (i.e., thermal pro- files), to ensure the quality of the solder joints. In the context of the BGA thermal study, one of the significant challenges will be measuring the temperature under the package and predicting the temperature. Thus, a non-contact profile prediction model would help with predicting the BGA joint thermal profile. As part of this study, (1) a physics-informed artificial neural network (PINN) was proposed for temperature predic- tion for the BGA solder joints, and (2) an experiment was conducted 1 2 Thermal Profile Prediction and Recipe Optimization for BGAs to measure the solder joint temperature underneath the BGAs for con- firmation. The study also proposed (3) an optimization model based on mixed integer programming (MILP) to obtain the reflow recipe for the product that contains passive components and BGA packages, which have different heat capacities, by minimizing the difference of the ther- mal profiles. The prediction accuracy is higher than 96% in terms of the R2 fitness to the actual thermal profile. In the optimized recipe, there was a 50% reduction in the gap between the peak temperatures of the hottest (passive components) and the coldest (BGA center) joints.