bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gaps in long lasting insecticide-treated net coverage 2 years after a mass distribution campaign in central Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Sih Colette , Assi Serge Brice , Talbot Benoit , Dangbenon Edouard , Kulkarni Manisha A. , Koffi Alphonsine A. , Alou Ludovic P. Ahoua , Messenger Louisa A. , Zoh Marius Gonse , Camara Soromane , Protopopoff Natacha , N’Guessan Raphael , Cook Jackie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
To reduce malaria burden in Côte d'Ivoire, the Ministry of Health aims for 90% of its population to possess one long-lasting insecticidal net (LLIN) for every two persons by 2025. Furthermore, some studies recommend measuring LLIN access within sleeping units to improve the accuracy of coverage indicators. This study evaluated LLIN coverage two years after a mass distribution in central Côte d'Ivoire.
Methods
A census was conducted in 43 villages. Data were collected on household geo-position, composition, number of sleeping units and LLINs owned. LLIN coverage was assessed using: 1/ ownership; proportion of household with at least one LLIN; 2/household access; households with sufficient nets for every two persons and for every sleeping unit; and 3/ population access; proportion of population with access to LLIN within households and sleeping units.
Results
10,630 households (89.6% response rate) and 46,619 inhabitants were recruited. Household LLIN ownership was 63.8% (95%CI: 58.7–68.8). Household LLIN access was 37.6% (95%CI: 33.2–42.0) based on 1 LLIN per 2 persons and 37.1% (95%CI: 33.0-41.2) based on 1 net per sleeping unit. Population LLIN access based on 1 LLIN per 2 persons and 1 net per sleeping space was 53.3% (95%CI: 48.6–58.1) and 49.4% (95%CI: 45.1–53.6) respectively. Approximately 17% of households with access for every 2 persons did not have access by every sleeping unit and 9.7% of households with access by sleeping unit did not have access for every 2 persons. Households with adequate access by sleeping unit but not for every 2 persons tend to be larger with fewer sleeping units, and have children under five years old and female members. The largest households (> 7 members) and households with at least one under-five member had the lowest access (20.8% and 27.3% respectively).
Conclusion
LLIN access was low in this area of intense indoor malaria transmission, 2 years after the last mass distribution campaign. Strategies are needed to improve LLINs coverage.
Subcellular Localization of the P2X4 Receptor in Cochlear Sensory Hair Cells
Authors: Huang Ziyin Silver , Ross Jacqueline M , Lin Shelly CY , Roy Kevin , Vlajkovic Srdjan M , Thorne Peter R. , Suzuki-Kerr Haruna 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Our sense of hearing starts in the inner ear organ, the cochlea, which contains two types of auditory hair cells for signal transduction. Earlier research showed that the complex cochlear physiology is regulated in part by purinergic signalling through activations of purine mediated P2X, P2Y and adenosine receptors expressed in the cochlea. This study aims to extend our knowledge of purinergic signalling in the cochlea by comprehensively characterizing the expression of P2X4 receptor subtype. Wistar rat cochlea (embryonic day 20.5–6 weeks, both sexes) were collected and the P2X4 expression was examined by immunohistochemistry. Robust P2X4 expression was found in the organ of Corti (OoC) in the inner hair cells (IHCs) and outer hair cells (OHCs), confirmed by double-labelling with HCs marker Myosin VIIa. In IHCs, a robust cytoplasmic P2X4 expression occurred throughout the cell body, with the most intense signal at the medial side. In OHCs, P2X4 formed puncta near the apical and basal ends of the cell body. Using markers for subcellular organelles, P2X4 immunoreactivity was associated mostly with the trans-Golgi network apparatus (27%) and early endosomes (26%) in IHC, and early endosomes (42.3%) and lysosomes (32.4%) in OHC in the mature cochlea. Taken together, these observations suggest unique roles for P2X4 in mature IHCs and OHCs as a purinergic receptor subtype responsible for homeostatic regulation of hair cells and auditory sensory transduction.
A Loss-initiated GAN-based Convolutional LSTM Method for Compression and Motion Estimation-Based Objective Enhancement in Images and Videos
Authors: Mudhavath Ramesh Naik , Kumar Jayendra , Yadav Arvind R , Kumar Roshan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The issues of finding a suitable loss function for perceived similarity and enhancing perceptual quality in substantially compressed videos still need to be resolved. The LIGAN-Conv-LSTM is a convolutional long-short-term memory system that integrates a loss-initialised generative adversarial network. This system was developed to address the challenge of defining unified training objectives that improve both rough and smooth content. The goal is to enhance compression quality by employing advanced feature selection and prediction techniques. The study begins by presenting a comprehensive examination of multimedia, emphasising its diverse attributes, encompassing retention, awareness, conversation, and knowledge. The research employs Shape Local Binary Texture (SLBT), Overlapped Segmentation-based Independent Component Analysis (OS-ICA), and Scale-Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT) as approaches to extract useful features. Furthermore, this research acknowledges the necessity for enhanced motion estimates. To address this, a hybrid technique is proposed to integrate the most advantageous elements of coyote and tuna swarm optimisation. The objective is to enhance the accessibility of feature selection, a crucial factor in improving classifier performance. The primary contribution of the research involves replacing standard motion estimating algorithms with a Conv-LSTM network, enabling the prediction of concise latent representations for future frames. The study's results emphasise the efficacy of the proposed hybrid search algorithm in achieving a high level of matching accuracy, as demonstrated by testing on a representative collection of video clips. The planned task's accuracy level is 97.73, demonstrating its cost-effective productivity.
A dilemma study of the traffic flow system emerged due to the lane-change by follower’s tailgating effect
Authors: Sueyoshi Fumi , Hossain Md. Anowar , Tanimoto Jun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this study, a virtual traffic system has been developed by establishing a brand-new Cellular Automata (CA) traffic model to figure out adequate strategies that can be implemented in actual traffic systems to optimize road capability. We investigate the flow efficiency and social dilemma that emerged due to the defector drivers in a traffic flow system, who are highly aggressive in driving and impose threatening/pushing effects on their preceding while they are tailgating. The evolutionary game theory, which is one of the most efficient tools in the decision-making process, has been utilized to identify the Social Efficiency Deficit (SED), which means the dilemma strength of those games. We introduced a new lane-changing protocol for the preceding vehicle, considering the threatening effects given by the aggressive follower. This investigation explored several case studies defining various strategies for cofactors and defectors. We conducted a series of multi-agent simulations on this traffic flow system and experienced the Prisoner’s Dilemma (PD) and the Quasi-Prisoner’s Dilemma game with diverse dilemma strengths for four different strategies for cooperators and defectors.
Estimation of infected area and its severity in chest X-ray images of tuberculosis patients
Authors: Ng Wenfa 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Despite much research, tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant health burden in both developing and advanced countries. Diagnosis of tuberculosis still rely on chest X-ray images which are interpreted qualitatively by radiologist. Hence, much pathological conditions useful for formulating a treatment plan elude detection. This work aims to develop quantitative methods for determining the extent of tuberculosis infection, and quantify the relative proportion of moderate and severe infections in different parts of the lung. Using MATLAB software developed for this study, quantitative analysis of 15 TB infected and 6 latent TB cases reveals higher light intensity in TB infected and latent TB cases relative to normal lung. More importantly, analysis of infected area for pixel intensity > 35 indicates TB infection spread throughout the lung and is considered a systemic disease. In cases of pixel intensity > 90 (moderate to severe), and pixel intensity > 150 (severe) infected area, both TB infected and latent TB presents with these infections to a significant degree, and less burden for latent TB cases. Overall, the top right lung persistently present with less moderate and severe TB infections, and is the region that can be resuscitated in severe TB pneumonia. Additionally, this work also reveals latent TB as an aggressive lung disease likely kept in check by a relatively strong immune system that prevented whole body physiological collapse.
Nutrient Centric-Focused Restructuring Yields Greater Cross-benefit in Indian Agriculture
Authors: Goyal Shekhar Sharan , Kumar Rohini , Bhatia Udit 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Addressing sustainability within food systems is challenging due to their multifaceted nature. Our study focuses on the Indian agricultural system, where the balance of nutrient management and water conservation is crucial, yet in tandem being underexplored. We show that the nitrogen-focused crop restructuring strategy reduces the nitrogen surplus by 16–24% and water use by 20–40% compared to the 2017 baseline year. This approach not only improves farmer income and calorie production, but also mitigates greenhouse gas emissions (by 28%; 113 Mt CO2 eq). Further, the nitrogen-focused approach is 5 times more efficient in delivering cross-benefits, compared to water-focused approaches, resulting in a decrease in socio-environmental costs associated with nitrogen pollution of around $1.97 billion USD. The consequential agricultural restructuring results in 4.3 times increase in the volume of alternative crop trade in interstate trade network. Overall, our analysis presents a compelling case for India and, by extension, global agricultural practices to conscientiously integrate nutrient management into their strategies while advocating for environmental sustainability objectives.
Research on the ecology and impacts of invasive alien species: a systematic literature review
Authors: AÏKPON Gorgias , GANGLO Jean Cossi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Throughout history, the spread of many species of plants, animals and other organisms has been governed by natural processes. The advent of globalisation, the development of trade and people movement have largely contributed to the spread of many species around the world. As a result, species are continually being introduced into new ecological zones. Some of them are establishing themselves as harmful invaders. Their wide distribution has given rise to numerous concerns due to their negative impacts on natural ecosystems and the disappearance of local species, resulting in a loss of biodiversity. Unfortunately, these problems are often perceived at a late stage. There is an urgent need to highlight the repercussions of these species. The aim of this work is to highlight the state of research on the ecology and impacts of invasive alien species in order to provide guidance for research and decision-making. This study used a dual approach combining bibliometric analyses and the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) protocol. VOSviewer and R software were used to generate relevant illustrations. The data analysed reveals a sustained growth in the number of scientific publications on the topic. This trend reflects the growing interest of researchers in the issue of invasive alien species, which is considered as a major subject for study. However, it has to be said that most of this work is not part of a national policy that includes concrete measures to be implemented by governments. It is therefore a priority to increase the volume of relevant studies aimed at establishing a link between fundamental data on invasive alien species and management programmes and policies at local, regional and national levels.
Prevalence of Oropharyngeal Candidiasis and distribution of Candida species among People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Musinguzi Benson , Obuku Ekwaro A. , Kinengyere Alison Annet , Ndagire Regina , Baguma Andrew , Mwesigwa Alex , Itabangi Herbert , Mboowa Gerald , Sande Obondo James , Achan Beatrice 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: The incidence of oropharyngeal candidiasis among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Africa is on the rise. Oropharyngeal candidiasis is mainly caused by C. albicans; however, a shift in the etiology towards non-Candida albicans species is increasing. In addition, there are variations in the epidemiological distribution of Candida species causing oropharyngeal candidiasis among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Africa.
Objective: This review aimed to determine the prevalence of oropharyngeal candidiasis and the distribution of Candida species among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Africa.
Materials and Methods: This systematic review protocol was registered in the base PROSPERO database prior to its conduct (CRD42021254473). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocol guidelines (PRISMA-P) were followed for this study. The PubMed, Scopus and EMBASE databases were searched to identify published studies published between 1st January 2000 and 8th October 2022. The eligible studies were included in the meta-analysis and analyzed using a random effects model. The risk of bias of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute quality assessment tool for prevalence studies.
Results: The database search yielded 370 titles from PubMed (n=192), EMBASE (n=162) and SCOPUS (n=16). Fourteen studies with a total of 3,863 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of oropharyngeal candidiasis was 49.0% (95% CI: 37% - 62%). A total of 2,688 Candida isolates were reported; approximately 76.6% (n=2,060) were C. albicans, and 21.7% (n=582) were non-C. albicans. Among the non-Candida albicans species, C. glabrata was the most common isolate (29.6%), followed by C. tropicalis (27.7%), C. krusei (17.0%), C. parapsilosis (8.1%) and C. dubliniensis (5.2%). Out of 14 studies, 7 (50.0%) had a low risk of bias, 5 (35.7%) had a moderate risk of bias, and 2 (14.3%) had a high risk of bias.
Conclusion: Almost half of people living with HIV in Africa have oropharyngeal candidiasis, and C. albicans remains the most frequent cause of oropharyngeal candidiasis.
An open-access database of nature-based carbon offset project boundaries
Authors: Karnik Akshata , Kilbride John B. , Goodbody Tristan R.H. , Ross Rachael , Ayrey Elias 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Nature-based climate solutions (NBS) have become an important component of strategies aiming to reduce atmospheric CO2 and mitigate climate change impacts. Carbon offsets have emerged as one of the most widely implemented NBS strategies, however, these projects have also been criticized for exaggerating offsets. Verifying the efficacy of NBS-derived carbon offset is complicated by a lack of readily available geospatial boundary data. Herein, we detail methods and present a database of nature-based offset project boundaries. This database provides the locations of 575 NBS projects distributed across 55 countries. Geospatial boundaries were aggregated using a combination of scraping data from carbon project registries (n=433, 75.3%) as well as manual georeferencing and digitization (n=127, 22.1%). Database entries include three varieties of carbon projects: avoided deforestation, afforestation, reforestation and re-vegetation, and improved forest management. An accuracy assessment of the georeferencing and digitizing process indicated a high degree of accuracy (intersection over union score of 0.98 ± 0.015).
The Protective Role of miR-125b in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Unraveling Tumor-Suppressive Mechanisms
Authors: Dari Mahrokh Abouali Gale , Vahedian Vahid , Kempisty Bartosz , Morenikeji Olanrewaju B. , Farzaneh Maryam , Anbiyaiee Amir 
Published: June 2024

Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators of gene expression, playing
pivotal roles in various biological processes, including cancer development and progression.
Among them, miR-125b has garnered significant attention due to its multifaceted functional roles
in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Extensive research has revealed that miR-125b plays
a dual role in HCC, acting as both a tumor suppressor and an oncogene, depending on the
context. As a tumor suppressor, miR-125b inhibits HCC by targeting key oncogenic pathways and
genes involved in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Its downregulation in
HCC is frequently observed and correlates with aggressive tumor characteristics and poor
prognosis. Conversely, miR-125b can also function as an oncogene in specific HCC subtypes or
under certain conditions. It has been shown to promote HCC growth, metastasis, and therapeutic
resistance by targeting tumor suppressor genes, modulating the epithelial-mesenchymal
transition (EMT) process, and enhancing cancer stem cell-like properties. The upregulation of
miR-125b in HCC has been associated with advanced disease stages and unfavorable clinical
outcomes. Furthermore, a complex network of regulatory mechanisms influences the
dysregulation of miR-125b expression in HCC. Understanding these regulatory mechanisms is
crucial for deciphering the precise functional roles of miR-125b in HCC and exploring its potential
as a diagnostic biomarker or therapeutic target. In the current review study, we comprehensively
elucidated the diverse functional roles of miR-125b in HCC, providing a comprehensive overview
of its regulatory mechanisms and impact on key cellular processes involved in HCC progression.
Nanoplastics: Unveiling Contamination Routes and Toxicological Implications for Human Health
Authors: de Oliveira Carlos Rafael Silva , Maestri Gabriela , Tochetto Gabriel André , de Oliveira Julia Lemos , Stiegelmaier Ederson , Fischer Thomas Volkhard , Immich Ana Paula Serafini 
Published: June 2024

Abstract:
Nanoplastics (NPs) have emerged as a concerning environmental pollutant due to their
ubiquitous presence and potential adverse effects on human health. This review aims to elucidate the
routes of NP contamination and their associated toxic effects on various systems within the human
body. The inhalation of NPs presents a significant route of exposure, where particles can deposit
deep within the respiratory tract, leading to potential respiratory health complications. Similarly,
ingestion of NPs through contaminated food and water sources poses a risk to gastrointestinal and
urinary tract health. Additionally, dermal permeation of NPs highlights another avenue for exposure,
raising concerns about skin health. The potential toxic effects of micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) on
human health span across multiple physiological systems. MNPs have been implicated in respiratory
ailments, gastrointestinal disturbances, cardiovascular complications, blood abnormalities, compromised
immune responses, neurological impairments, and reproductive dysfunctions. Understanding
these toxic effects is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate NP exposure and protect human
health. This review underscores the urgent need for interdisciplinary research efforts aimed at assessing
NP toxicity comprehensively and implementing measures to reduce NP contamination in the
environment.
Preparation of Decellularized Lung Matrix Scaffolds and Evaluation of its Effect on Endometrial Stem Cell Differentiation into Lung Epithelial-like
Cells
Authors: Mohamadnia Abdolreza , Bagherzadi Kambiz , Hasanzadeh Elham , Noori Afshin , Jamaati Hamidreza , Dizaji Mehdi Kazempour , Ai Arman , Jahromi Hossein Kargar , Afsartala Zohreh , Ai Jafar , bordbar Sima , Bahrami Naghmeh 
Published: June 2024

Background:
The use of decellularized tissues as cell culture scaffolds is an exciting new direction
in regenerative medicine because they may provide the instructional context for cell development
and function.

Objective:
Building a scaffold with biomimetic chemical, structural, and functional features is crucial
for lung tissue healing. Due to the diverse nature of their structure, a decellularized lung matrix derived
from both allogeneic and xenogeneic sources is regarded as an ideal scaffold for lung regeneration.

Methods:
By decellularizing rat lungs using a combination of chemical and physical methods, we were
able to build a scaffold for lung tissue engineering. A decellularized lung was tested for DNA content,
and histologically, it was shown to be totally free of cells after using this process.

Results:
The decellularized lung was biocompatible for the growth of human endometrial stem cells
(hEnSCs), as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), an MTS assay, and Hematoxylin and
Eosin (H&E) staining. In addition, we found that decellularized scaffolds induced lung epithelial cell
differentiation from EnSCs by upregulating a subset of genes. Lung epithelial cell development from
stem cells was also induced by decellularized scaffolds, as shown by an increase in the expression of a
gene that is only expressed in lung epithelial cells. The strong level of acellularized scaffold affinity for
cell adhesion, proliferation, and growth was also shown to promote lung lesion regeneration in rats after
four weeks of treatment, according to in vivo research.

Conclusion:
In summary, the decellularized lung scaffold that has been developed offers a highly accurate
framework for the effective restoration of lung tissues. These scaffolds prove to be valuable tools
for investigating the mechanisms by which the tissue microenvironment facilitates the growth, differentiation,
and function of lung epithelial-like cells, ultimately contributing to the beneficial outcomes of
lung repair.