bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Repellent and acaricidal effects of the chlorfenapyr and acequinocyl on the predatory mites, Neoseiulus californicus and Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Sehat-Niaki Navid , Golpaygani Azadeh Zahedi , Torabi Ehssan , Amiri-Besheli Behnam , Saboori Alireza 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), is a major pest of various plants with a worldwide distribution. Extensive use of chemical pesticides has led to the development of resistance in this pest, making biological control agents a viable alternative for its management. The predatory mites, Neoseiulus californicus McGregor and Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae) are the most important predators of the two-spotted spider mites. In this study, the toxicity of two acaricides, chlorfenapyr and acequinocyl, on these predators was evaluated, and the walking behavior of predatory mites after exposure to residues of the pesticides was assessed using a video tracking system. While the LC50 of both acaricides was estimated to be higher than the field concentration, chlorfenapyr was found to be five times more toxic than acequinocyl. In the behavioral assay, both acaricides significantly affected the distance and speed of walking, resting time, and frequency of stops of both predatory mites. In the escape assay, both compounds had an irritable effect on both predatory mites, as the mites avoided areas contaminated with pesticide residues and their presence in the untreated area was significantly longer than in the contaminated area (P < 0.05). However, the study found no correlation between toxicity and repellency. According to the results of this study, N. californicus and P. persimilis possess the ability to detect the presence of pesticide residues in their environment and try to avoid them. Moreover, both compounds are at low risk to these mites, but acequinocyl is much safer and is a suitable option for using in integrated pest management.
Privacy-preserved visual SLAM based on a dual-component approach
Authors: Yang MingXu , Huang Xin , Huang ChuHua , Hou Shengjin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The edge-assisted visual simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) receives user images, and then estimates and returns 3D point clouds and camera poses. However, this process may lead to the leakage of user privacy, limiting the application of visual SLAM. To address this issue, we proposed a dual-component approach for visual SLAM that preserves privacy. Firstly, the privacy-sensitive area of input images underwent masking and inpainting using an image inpainting method. The method is based on object detection with multi-scale feature fusion and a two-stage image inpainting algorithm. Secondly, the output 3D point cloud was encrypted into a 3D line cloud, where each line underwent random orientation and length normalization. Experiments were conducted on the Oxford Robotcar and KITTI datasets to evaluate the privacy-preserving performance of the dual-component approach. We also assessed its impact on the pose estimation of visual SLAM. The results demonstrate that the approach effectively preserves privacy while ensuring the pose accuracy of visual SLAM.
Simulating Collusion: Challenging Conventional Estimation Methods
Authors: Bellert Nicole , Günster Andrea 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The empirical literature in industrial economics relies on hazard rate models to estimate the probability of death and survival as well as to explain the duration of collusion. Estimations are based on detected and convicted offenses. Detected cartels are, however, a non-random sample of their population of collusive activity. We question whether hazard rate and linear estimation methods derive consistent unbiased estimators explaining collusion. We simulate collusive behavior of industries with different number of firms based on three classical models of collusion, additionally varying four variables of antitrust enforcement. It is the first easily amenable and amendable simulation tool for collusion. The simulation provides a ground-truth data set of undetected and detected cartels; a population and its sample. Applying hazard rate and linear models on the sample fails to deliver consistent unbiased estimates for the population. Controlling for sample and feature selection on the population of all potential offenders does not improve prediction. The use of average treatment effects and average duration bias shows to quantify the magnitude of any bias well; a solution for future research relying on detected cartel cases. JEL Classification: C13 , C63 , D43 , 43 , L41 , L44
Malaria and malaria-induced anaemia in G6PD deficient children in Jos Northcentral Nigeria
Authors: Okoli Caroline Amuche , Wamu Deborah Isaiah , Deffi Favour , Leshak Philip Dakwar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Erythrocyte Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and malaria are causes of anaemia, a major public health concern.
Objectives
The study aims to determine the prevalence of malaria and malaria-induced anaemia in G6PD deficient children.
Materials and Methods
Fifty-five children aged 1–5 years confirmed positive for malaria and 45 same age and sex matched children confirmed to be malaria negative by 30% Giemsa-stained thick blood film examination participated in the study. G6PD activity was determined using ICuBIO Ichaem-535 Chemistry Analyser. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27. p-value < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results
Fifty-five, out of the hundred study children were positive for malaria, 49 (49%) were G6PD deficient; 24 (43.6) of 55 malaria positive children were G6PD deficient, and 25 (55.6%) malaria negative children were G6PD deficient. Fifteen (53.6%) children positive for malaria were anaemic and 16(57.1%) of G6PD deficient children were anaemic. The prevalence of malaria-induced anaemia among the G6PD deficient children was 37.5%.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study showed a high prevalence of: G6PD deficiency (49%), malaria (55%), malaria in G6PD deficient children (43.6%) and malaria-induced anaemia among G6PD deficient children (37.5%) from Jos, North-Central Nigeria. In conclusion, our results suggest that there may be a need for inclusion of G6PD screening test as part of routine screening tests for neonates. This will help in early detection, awareness, prompt, accurate and focused treatment especially in acute hemolytic crisis. Understanding the prevalence of G6PD deficiency in other geographical regions of the country is recommended to inform the use of malaria intervention(s) such as primaquine, dapsone and other agents that induce acute haemolytic anaemia in G6PD deficient individuals.
Skillful multiyear predictability of forage, large pelagic and demersal fish biomass
Authors: Lim Hyung-Gyu , Petrik Colleen , Krumhardt Kristen , Chen Zhuomin , Long Matthew , Stock Charles , Park Jong-Yeon , Kim Eun-Young 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

With emergences of predictive skills in climate simulations, we currently stand at the horizon of being able to forecast marine ecosystems. However, the predicting high trophic levels from multiple biophysical bottom-up drivers remains understudied. Here, we evaluate the potential predictability of bottom-up biophysical drivers of fish in decadal Earth system model outcomes. Pelagic and bottom temperatures show approximately 6- and 10-year predictability compared to mesozooplankton and particulate organic carbon flux, about 1 and 2 years globally. We further examine fish biomass predictability using a spatially explicit mechanistic model for three fish functional types. Fish biomass demonstrates skillful predictability within 2 years globally, extended regionally for more years. In select marine ecosystems, forage fishes (anomaly correlation coefficient: r ~ 0.8), large pelagics (r ~ 0.9), and demersals (r ~ 0.8) are predictable in multiyear. These findings expand on prior research, shedding light on developing operational forecasts of living marine resources.
Programmable Light-Induced Carbene Generation for On Demand Chemical Synthesis: Introducing DigiChemTree
Authors: Singh Ajay , Rana Abhilash , Chauhan Ruchi , Mottafegh Amirreza , Kim Dong-Pyo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The reproducibility of chemical reactions, when obtaining protocols from literature or databases, is highly challenging for academicians, industry professionals and even now for the machine learning process. To synthesize the organic molecule under the photochemical condition, several years for the reaction optimization, highly skilled manpower, long reaction time etc. are needed, resulting in non-affordability and slow down the research and development. Herein, we have introduced the DigiChemTree backed with the artificial intelligence to auto-optimize the photochemical reaction parameter and synthesizing the on demand library of the molecules in ultra-fast manner. Newly, auto-generated digital code was further tested for the late stage functionalization of the various active pharmaceutical ingredient.
The Prevalence of Generalized Anxiety Disorder Among Adolescent Girls: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Suleiman Mawadda , Tabbaa Rania , Latifa Youssef 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Anxiety disorders share a fundamental element: an unrealistic sense of anxiety that diminishes or hinders an individual’s productivity in life. The essential component of anxiety is a strong negative emotion arising from the anticipation of danger. The pathways connecting the brainstem, amygdala, and relevant subcortical structures to decision-making areas in the frontal lobes contribute to generating fear in response to threats. Often, disrupted anxiety levels are accompanied by abnormalities in the activation of these pathways. Proper diagnosis relies on documenting anxiety symptoms that are not attributable to depressive disorders, according to the diagnostic criteria for generalized anxiety disorder. The most effective treatment for generalized anxiety disorder may involve a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and supportive interventions.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 500 female patients. We obtained a written consent from all patients in the group. Personal information, demographics, and symptoms were collected. The study excluded patients who didn’t complete the questionnaire. The study was approved by the Ethical Review Board (IRB) of the Faculty of Medicine in the Syrian Private University. A statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-25. Chai square test was used to study the relation among variables. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically relevant.
Results:
The severity of Generalized Anxiety Disorder varied among the females who participated in the study as such: 2.6% had light GAD, 14.8% were moderately affected, 19% were severely affected, and 63.3% were very severely affected.
Zwitterion as Ionic Liquid Crystals for Ionic Charges Carrier as Electrolytes media of Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Labeeb Ahmad M. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Developing innovative ionic liquid crystals for energy storage applications has drawn much attention recently, with a high possibility of getting high-potential materials for the advanced energy storage industry. Ionic Liquid Crystalline Materials provide exceptional ionic conductivity and thermal stability as a special family of materials that are well-suited for application in advanced energy storage technologies. In order to enhance these innovative materials' practical application in next-generation energy storage technologies, this research attempts to investigate their basic characteristics, structure, and liquid crystalline performance for one of these kinds of materials. By examining the potential of innovative ionic liquid crystals as effective and sustainable energy storage solutions, this study aims to add to the expanding corpus of knowledge in the field of energy storage a new material that owns charge mobilities in energy storage devices. Cyclic voltammetry techniques showed that this ionic liquid crystal exhibits mesomorphic behavior and typical zwitterion features. Lithium ions have been added to certain materials to increase their ionic conductivity and stability.
Severe obesity induces growth of muscle mass
Authors: Dahlmann Nicolaus , Klingmüller Dietrich 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: Obesity is associated with functional limitations in muscle performance. Current evidence demonstrating the effect of obesity on muscle quality is limited. The true effect of obesity upon skeletal muscle mass, including any interactions with ageing effects, remains to be elucidated. The present study investigates the impact of obesity on the stimulation of muscle growth.
Methods: A data set of 44 severely obese men and 64 women were analysed. All subjects had a BMI ≥29.7 kg/m². Body weight (Wt), body height (Ht), hand circumference (HdC) and the circumference of the waist (WC) were measured and processed by the Dahlmann-Body Analysis (DBA) system. The result is the amount of skeletal muscle mass (SMM, kg). Association between weight variables and BMI were analysed by linear regression analysis. The slope of the regression line was tested to be significant by t-test. The goodness of fit is assessed by coefficient of determination (R²) and the standard error of the estimate (SEE). Significance of determination coefficient between variables are tested by F-test. Muscle mass data are compared with DXA derived equations estimating the appendicular lean soft tissue (ALST). Mean values of these findings are tested by ANOVA
Results: Age ranged between 18 and 72 years. All subjects had a BMI ≥ 29.7 (kg/m²). The mean values of ΔSMM as an estimate of muscle mass increase calculated by the DBA-system were 11.8 ±3.6 kg for men and 8.9 ±2.6 kg for women, respectively, demonstrating a linear, significantly rising relationship to BMI (ß > 0, p<0.001) and a low variance between both parameters. The comparison of DBA calculated muscle mass data with DXA derived equations estimating ALST revealed satisfactory results. Relation between age and the increase of muscle mass adjusted for height (ΔSMMI, kg/m²) was not significantly different from zero.
Conclusion: The DBA model is obviously reliable to predict SMM. Based on these data, the study revealed for the first time that obesity stimulates muscle growth in a linear manner. A decrease of muscle mass over age could not be demonstrated for our study population. The current study provides another step on the roadmap to develop the DBA model as a tool in public health in relation to management of obesity and sarcopenia.
Course of Niemann – Pick disease type A/B in the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Melnikova I. M. , Pavlikov A. A. , Borisova E. K. 
Published: July 2024

Niemann – Pick disease type A/B (NPAB) is a rare severe inherited disease from the group of accumulation diseases with a defect in the acid sphingomyelinase gene (Niemann-Pick disease types B, A/B) (ASMD). Symptoms of damage to the nervous system and internal organs manifest in infancy, leading to disability, fatalities in childhood. NPAB is so far incurable. Optimal management of the disease requires a multidisciplinary team of physicians, specialists. The basis of therapy is the elimination of existing/forming complications, symptomatic treatment. Enzyme replacement therapy as a means of modifying the course of this disease is expected to slow down the progression of pathologic manifestations of the disease not related to the central nervous system lesions. Single cases of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have been described in the treatment of ASMD, which is one of the new methods aimed at normalizing the level of acid sphingomyelinase, blood parameters, as well as reducing the severity of pathological visceral manifestations. However, the development of complications during HSCT, absence of positive therapeutic effect in severe CNS lesions does not allow to widely implement this method. Taking into account the contradictory data on the efficacy of HSCT in ASMD, further clinical studies are required. Analysis of 2 clinical cases of NPAB in children from the same family allowed us to reveal differences in the course and outcomes of the disease at verification of the diagnosis at birth followed by HSCT. Difficulties in diagnosing this extremely rare pathology, which requires a multidisciplinary approach, justify the need to improve methods of early diagnosis, including the organization of genetic risk determination, introduction of prenatal genetic testing before pregnancy.
Multi-level dynamic zoning design to improve the restorative capability of resilience: An emergence response in water contamination flushing
Authors: Liu Jun , Wang Hongpeng , Zhang Qingzhou , Wan Yunchang , Zhao Dahai , Wei Daoling , Hou Yukun 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

The conventional district metered areas (DMAs) bounded by closed valves reduce space of emergency response actions to cope with system failure or emergency events for resilience improvement. In order to improve the restorative capability of a zoning water distribution system (WDS), a novel dynamic DMA optimization design method and a coupled emergency response strategy are proposed. A multi-level zoning method is applied to determine optimization of water source areas (WSAs), pressure management areas (PMAs), and dynamic DMAs. A coupled emergency response strategy of WDS zoning, valve closure, hydrant flushing, and dynamic DMA adjustment is proposed and validated in a real large-scale water distribution network. The results show that the coupled emergency response strategy based on dynamic DMA can enhance capacity for dynamic emergency response and improve resilience during contamination flushing.
Tuberculin Skin Test Reactivity among Health Care Workers in the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba South-east Nigeria
Authors: Ogu Cornelius , Ebenezar Chiemela , Nwaogwugwu Obioma , Ogu Rita , Nduka Ijeoma 
Published: July 2024

Background
Tuberculosis is one of the infections targeted for eradication and is still under surveillance. Hospital workers in Nigeria take little or no precautions against tuberculosis while attending to patients.

Objectives
This research aimed to study the prevalence of the reactivity of positive Tuberculin Skin Tests among healthcare workers in a Nigerian University Teaching Hospital.

Methods
Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained from the participants. Two hundred and ten consented participants were recruited for this study, while 185 contributed till the end. The Tuberculin Skin Test was conducted following the standard operating procedures. The chi-square test was used to compare the variable at a significant level of P < 0.05. Of those who received a BGC vaccine < 3 years, 4.8% were excluded from the analyses.

Results
Mean ± SD of participants’ age was approximately 30 ± 8 years. Participants comprised 87 (47%) males and 98 (53%) females. The modal age group was 21-25 years. Most participants were clinical medical students, 93(50.3%), while doctors, 7 (3.8%), were second to least. The prevalence of positive reactivity to the Tuberculin Skin Test was 29.9%. There was no significant difference observed regarding sexes and positive reactivity. A significant difference was found in reactivity ≥ 10 mm between those who didn’t receive BCG and those who received BCG vaccine ≥ 10 years before the study.

Conclusion
Healthcare workers can be potential active TB patients and reservoirs. We recommend highly sensitive and specific periodic TB screening, prophylactic treatment, and re-vaccination of Health Care Workers in Nigeria.
Minimally invasive ureteral reimplantation: trends in regions of the Russian Federation and The Republic of Belarus. Multi-center study
Authors: Akramov N. R. , Baranov Yu. V. , Bondarenko S. G. , Dubrov V. I. , Kagantsov I. M. , Karpachev S. A. , Kogan M. I. , Kuzovleva G. I. , Pirogov A. V. , Rudin Yu. E. , Sablin D. E. , Sizonov V. V. , Smyrov O. S. 
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Until recently, open ureteral reimplantation was considered the gold standard for the surgical treatment of ureterovesical junction (UVJ) pathologies. The introduction of minimally invasive ureteral reimplantation (MIUR) for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and primary obstructive megaureter (POM) in children started in the 1990s. However, studies describing national trends in the use of minimally invasive and open approaches in the surgical treatment of UVJ pathology in children are limited.Objective. To describe changes in the use of MIUR and open ureteral reimplantation (OUR) between 2007 and 2022 in some regions of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus and compare the results and complication rates of the two surgical approaches. Materials & methods. The study includes 1273 patients (1793 ureters), operated on for UVJ pathology in the period from 2007 to 2022. MIR was performed in 1356 (75.6%) ureters (913 for VUR and 443 for POM). The studied parameters included an annual amount of reimplantation, the age of patients, the frequency of intra- and postoperative complications, as well as the medium-term results of operations.Results. The use of MIUR techniques has increased significantly over time, and in 2022, seventy-five percent of surgeries were performed using MIUR. Analysis of the rate of adoption of MIUR by clinics showed that those that began using it first experienced a significant increase in frequency of use after 4 to 6 years, while those that started later took 2 to 3 years to achieve a significant positive trend. There were 5 (0.4%) intraoperative complications in the MIUR group. All these complications were classified as grade I according to the Satava grading system. There was no significant difference between MIUR and OUR in terms of postoperative complication rates (6.6% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.8). The efficiency of reimplantation was 96.6% in the MIUR group compared to 95.9% in the OUR group for POM and 96.2% in the MIR group compared to 94.6% in the OUR for VUR.Conclusion. In the regions of Russia involved in the study, there has been a trend towards completely replacing open surgery with minimally invasive techniques. Regarding complication rates and efficacy, MIUR is not significantly different from OUR.