bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Digital-related factors affecting life satisfaction among married immigrants
Authors: Jeong Yeo-Won , Kim Jung-Ha 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study investigated digital-related factors affecting life satisfaction among married immigrants in South Korea, based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). This study conducted a secondary data analysis of the data of the Digital Divide 2022. A total of 621 married immigrants’ demographic characteristics and six digital-related factors based on TPB were analyzed. Attitudes toward using digital media, self-efficacy in using digital media, competence in using digital media, digital helper, online social networking, and online social participation were significantly positively correlated with life satisfaction. In addition, living with a spouse, education level, job, self-efficacy, competency in using digital media, and online social participation positively affected life satisfaction. Digital education programs focusing on self-efficacy and competence in using digital media should be developed to improve life satisfaction. Furthermore, it is necessary to explore various digital approaches to increasing married immigrants’ online social participation.
Patterns and Predictors of Medicinal Plant Use among Ethnolinguistic Groups in the 21st Century Philippines
Authors: Tanalgo Krizler , Plang Yalaira , Cruz Kier Dela , Rubio Meriam , Hilario-Husain Bona Abigail , Respicio Jeaneth Magelen , Lidasan Asraf , Abdullah Sumaira , Fabrero Gerald Vince , Ele Renee Jane , Murray Sedra , Saliling Yvonne , Macatabon Radji , Casim Lothy , Reyes Jamaica Delos , Agduma Angelo 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Traditional medicinal plants are integral to the diverse ethnolinguistic cultures and biodiversity in the Philippines. In this synthesis, we performed a Philippine-wide analysis of the knowledge, extent, and interactions of traditional plant use among various ethnolinguistic groups. Our synthesis identified 796 plant species from 160 families and 65 orders utilised by 35 ethnolinguistic groups to treat 25 disease types. We found strong connections between linguistically similar groups, indicating that geographical proximity, linguistic background, shared cultural practices, and environmental factors collectively influence the patterns of medicinal plant usage among the different groups. We developed the Species Use Priority Importance (SUPRIM) indicator to assess the priority level of plant species based on their use among ethnolinguistic groups and disease types. Factors such as availability of healthcare facilities, proximity to roads, educational facilities, and tree density were significantly correlated with higher SUPRIM indicator values. We posit that environmental status shaped the values of medicinal plant species within ethnolinguistic communities. Understanding these dynamics is essential to effectively conserve ecosystems and indigenous peoples that rely on them. Continued research efforts and conservation initiatives dedicated to the integration of traditional knowledge into healthcare systems are essential for preserving this invaluable heritage and promoting sustainable healthcare practices in the Philippines.
Direct Hydrocarbon Upgrade from n-Hexane, n-Octane, and n-Decane Using a Microsecond Pulsed Dielectric Barrier Discharge Non-Thermal Plasma
Authors: Marji Saif , Zaldivar Gabriela , girard-lauriault Pierre-luc 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Conventional chemical processing methods, employed for transforming hydrocarbon mixtures into more valuable forms, are known to consume high amounts of energy and produce a substantial amount of greenhouse gas emissions. This paper investigates an alternative approach employing non-thermal plasma, in a controlled temperature environment, to synthesize higher-order hydrocarbons. The method examined in this paper, has the potential to reduce energy requirements and mitigate CO2 emissions. Effects of temperature and hydrocarbon chain length on liquid and gas production efficiency are studied. A comparative analysis of the different hydrocarbons as reactants underscores the promising attributes of n-octane in this application. With the proposed reactor configuration, the highest average liquid production efficiency was found in n-octane at 20ºC. Organic compounds with carbon chain lengths as large as 20 carbons where successfully synthesized in the reactor configuration when using decane as the reactant. The observed trends alluded to different chemical reaction pathways being prevalent in different temperature conditions.
Blended tea ameliorates T2DM via modulation of gut microflora
Authors: Liu Sui , Dai Xinyue , Zhao Jinqi , Zhang Xuwen , Zhu Mingzhi , Wang Kunbo , Fu Donghe 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Increasing evidences suggest that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is closely related to gut microflora dysbiosis, which can be improved by dietary intervention. Four natural plant products, including Cyclocarya paliurus, Fu brick tea, Ampelopsis grossedentata, and Lithocarpus litseifolius, which are all rich in bioactive ingredients, are preliminarily found to be individually effective in alleviating T2DM. However, each of these four products has its own limitations in taste or aroma. In this study, these four natural plant products were blended to form a blended teaproduct for obtaining the better flavor. The blended tea was also expected to have excellent pharmacological activity. Therefore, the ameliorative effect of blended tea on T2DM and underlying mechanisms were studied in this study. The results showed that the blended tea extract effectively attenuated the symptoms of glucose and lipid metabolism-related disorders in T2DM mice fed by high-fat and high-sucrose diet (HFHSD). Furthermore, blended tea extract intervention significantly attenuated gut microbiota dysbiosis, characterized by increased community diversity and community richness. Certain core microbes, including Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005, Butyricimonas, Roseburia, Oscillibacter, [Eubacterium]_nodatum_group, Muribaculaceae, Prevotellaceae UCG 001, were also found to be improved by blended tea extract. Collectively, our results demonstrated that the blended tea may ameliorateT2DM through modulation of gut microflora. The blended tea may serve as novel functional drink for the treatment of T2DM and dysbiosis of gut microbiota.
Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Cox’s Bazar from 1990 to 2020: Exploring the Relationship between LST, NDVI, NDBI and LULC
Authors: HASAN MD. MEHADI 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Bangladesh, a densely populated developing nation, faces significant environmental challenges exacerbated by rapid population growth and economic development. This study focuses on Cox's Bazar district, characterized by its evolving land use patterns and susceptibility to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. Using Geographic Information Science (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) techniques, we assess the dynamics of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC), Land Surface Temperature (LST), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) from 1990 to 2020. Our analysis reveals substantial shifts in LULC, with implications for environmental degradation and sustainable management. We observe a decline in forest acreage, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts. Furthermore, our investigation into LST, NDVI, and NDBI highlights the impacts of urbanization and impervious surface expansion on temperature regulation and vegetation health. These findings underscore the importance of understanding and mitigating the UHI effect through informed land use planning and environmental management strategies. Through our comprehensive analysis, we contribute to the knowledge base on environmental change dynamics in Cox's Bazar district and provide insights for sustainable development initiatives in similar regions globally.
Basal Release of 6-cyanodopamine From Rat Isolated Vas Deferens and Its Role on the Vas Deferens Contractility
Authors: Pozzo Caroline Fernanda Sanches Dal , Junior Jose Eduardo Maldonado , Britto-Júnior José , Badin João Felipe Agostini , de Souza Valéria Barbosa , Schenka André Almeida , Peterson Larryn W. , Fregonesi Adriano , Antunes Edson , De Nucci Gilberto 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

6-Cyanodopamine is released from rabbit isolated heart. However, it is not known whether this novel catecholamine presents any biological activity. Here it was evaluated whether 6-cyanodopamine was released from rat isolated vas deferens and its effect on this tissue contractility. Basal release of 6-bromodopamine, 6-nitrodopa, 6-nitrodopamine, 6-cyanodopamine, and 6-nitroadrenaline from vas deferens were quantified by LC-MS/MS. Electric-field stimulation (EFS) and concentration-response curves to noradrenaline, adrenaline, and dopamine of the rat isolated epididymal vas deferens (RIEVD) were performed in the absence and presence of 6-cyanodopamine. Expression of tyrosine hydroxylase and S100 was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The rat isolated vas deferens release both 6-cyanodopamine and 6-nitrodopamine. Pre-incubation with tetrodotoxin, had no effect on the release of 6-cyanodopamine, but it virtually abolished 6-nitrodopamine release. 6-Cyanodopamine contracted RIEVD only at 1mM, but significantly potentiated the contractions induced by both noradrenaline and EFS at 1 nM. At 10 and 100 nM, 6-cyanodopamine also significantly potentiated the RIEVD contractions induced by adrenaline and dopamine. The potentiation of both noradrenaline and adrenaline contractions by 6-cyanodopamine was present in tetrodotoxin-pretreated tissues. Co-incubation of 6-cyanodopamine (100 pM) with 6-nitrodopamine (10 pM), caused significant leftward shifts and increased maximal responses of the concentration-response curves to noradrenaline, even in the presence of tetrodotoxin. Immunohistochemistry on RIEVD revealed the presence of tyrosine hydroxylase in both the cytoplasm of epithelial cells of the mucosae and in the nerve fibers. The identification of epithelium-derived 6-cyanodpamine and its remarkable synergism with catecholamines indicate that epithelial cells may regulate the smooth muscle contractility.
Differential requirement of Formyl Peptide Receptor 1 in macrophages and neutrophils in the host defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection.
Authors: Nafiz Tanvir Noor , Sankar Poornima , Mishra Lokesh Kishore , Rousseau Robert P , Saqib Mohd , Subbian Selvakumar , Parihar Suraj P , Mishra Bibhuti B 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Formyl peptide receptors (FPR), part of the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily, are pivotal in directing phagocyte migration towards chemotactic signals from bacteria and host tissues. Although their roles in acute bacterial infections are well-documented, their involvement in immunity against tuberculosis (TB) remains unexplored. This study investigates the functions of Fpr1 and Fpr2 in defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of TB. Elevated levels of Fpr1 and Fpr2 were found in the lungs of mice, rabbits and peripheral blood of humans infected with Mtb, suggesting a crucial role in the immune response. The effects of Fpr1 and Fpr2 deletion on bacterial load, lung damage, and cellular inflammation were assessed using a TB model of hypervirulent strain of Mtb from the W-Beijing lineage. While Fpr2 deletion showed no impact on disease outcome, Fpr1-deficient mice demonstrated improved bacterial control, especially by macrophages. Bone marrow-derived macrophages from these Fpr1-/- mice exhibited an enhanced ability to contain bacterial growth over time. Contrarily, treating genetically susceptible mice with Fpr1-specific inhibitors caused impaired early bacterial control, corresponding with increased bacterial persistence in necrotic neutrophils. Furthermore, ex vivo assays revealed that Fpr1-/- neutrophils were unable to restrain Mtb growth, indicating a differential function of Fpr1 among myeloid cells. These findings highlight the distinct and complex roles of Fpr1 in myeloid cell-mediated immunity against Mtb infection, underscoring the need for further research into these mechanisms for a better understanding of TB immunity.
Involvement of CXCL12/CXCR4 in CB2 receptor agonist-attenuated morphine tolerance in Walker 256 tumor-bearing rats with cancer pain
Authors: Liu Dandan , Zhang Mingyue , Xu Xiaohai , Zhong Xuelai , Ma Chao , Zheng Xiaoyu , Wu Xiaohong , Wang Guonian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

While low-dose cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptor agonists attenuate morphine tolerance in cancer pain models, chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)/chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) expression induces morphine tolerance. Whether CB2 receptor agonists attenuate morphine tolerance by modulating CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling or whether CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling affects the micro-opioid receptor (MOR) in the development of morphine tolerance in cancer pain remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the attenuation of morphine tolerance by a non-analgesic dose of the CB2 receptor agonist AM1241, focusing specifically on the modulation of CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling and its effect on the MOR. Rats received intrathecal Walker 256 tumor cell implantations and were treated with morphine combined with the intrathecal injection of AM1241 or the CB2 receptor antagonists AM630 and AM1241, or a CXCL12-neutralizing antibody, exogenous CXCL12, or the CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100. Our results show that CXCL12 and CXCR4 levels increased significantly in morphine-tolerant rats and were reduced by AM1241 pretreatment, which was reversed by AM630. CXCL12/CXCR4 expression accelerated morphine-associated mechanical hyperalgesia and downregulated MOR expression. CXCR4 colocalized with MOR and CB2. Therefore, a non-analgesic dose of AM1241 attenuated morphine tolerance via CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling, whereas CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling participated in the development of morphine tolerance, potentially by modulating MOR expression in Walker 256 tumor-bearing rats.
Urine Iodine Concentration Trends During Pregnancy in The North-Central Region of Nigeria: An Analysis
Authors: Gbaa Terry , Adebisi Simeon , Bolodeoku John , Dogoh Faeren , Gav Terna 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Iodine deficiency poses significant risks during pregnancy, affecting maternal and foetal health. Thyroid hormones, which are vital for brain development, rely on iodine, and deficiencies can lead to conditions like hypothyroidism and goitre. Monitoring urinary iodine concentration (UIC) is crucial for assessing iodine status, especially in pregnancy, where iodine plays a pivotal role in neurodevelopment. This descriptive cross-sectional study enrolled 250 pregnant women from various healthcare facilities in Makurdi, Nigeria, over nine months. urine and blood samples were analysed using the Sandell-Kolthof technique to measure UIC and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to test thyroid function. Statistical analysis employed SPSS 21. TSH levels in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters were 2.76 mIU/l, 1.53 mIU/l, and 3.50 mIU/l, respectively. UIC analysis in 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters (mean ± SD) were 192.02 ± 40.71, 185.49 ± 32.94, and 186.5 ± 435.35mIU/l respectively. UIC < 150 µg/L was 1.2%, 3.2% and 4.0% in 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters respectively. Thyroid hormone production fluctuations during pregnancy emphasise the importance of iodine sufficiency. Despite adequate iodine levels overall, notable percentages of participants exhibited insufficient UIC, especially in the third trimester. This underscores the need for continued monitoring and interventions to ensure optimal maternal and foetal health outcomes.
Double burden of Malnutrition among women in Reproductive Age (15-49 Years) in India: Evidence from National Family and Health Survey 2019-21 (NFHS-5)
Authors: Kumar Rishabh , Barik Soumen 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: This study explores the double burden of underweight and overnourished among reproductive-aged women (15–49 years) in India, aiming to identify key predictors and inform targeted interventions.
Methods: Utilising data from a nationally representative sample of Indian women, we applied multivariate logistic regression models to calculate relative risk ratios (RRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for various demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioural predictors of nutritional status.
Results: Age significantly influences nutritional outcomes, women age group 20-24 had a higher risk of being underweight (RRR= 0.69 CI: 0.65-0.75) and the lower risk of being overnourished (RRR=1.63, CI: 1.48-1.79) conversely the women age group 45-49 have the lower risk of underweight (RRR=0.28, CI: 0.26-0.31) and higher risk of overnourished (RRR= 5.49 CI: 4.93-6.11). Residing in rural areas had a higher risk of being underweight (RRR=1.13, CI: 1.07-1.18) and a lower risk of being overnourished (RRR= 0.83 CI: 0.8-0.86). On considering zones of the country, the Southern region shows higher risk of being overnourished (RRR= 1.52, CI: 1.44-1.61) and Western region shows higher risk of being underweight (RRR= 1.61, CI 1.52-1.72) Women with a higher wealth quintile exhibited a higher risk of overnourished (RRR=3.46, CI: 3.19-3.75) and women with a poorer section have higher risk of underweight. Higher education level shows lesser risk of being underweight (RRR=0.67, CI: 0.62-0.72). In the social group, ST has a lower risk of being overnourished (RRR= 0.68, CI: 63-0.74). Smoking increased the risk of being underweight (RRR=1.31, CI: 1.15-1.50), while alcohol consumption was associated with a lower likelihood of being overnourished.
Conclusion: The study highlights the determinants of malnutrition among Indian women, emphasizing the need for targeted, age-specific, and region-specific interventions. Comprehensive nutrition education and policy reforms addressing socioeconomic disparities are crucial for mitigating India's double burden of malnutrition.
Development and validation of environmental DNA assays for the detection of endangered and threatened freshwater mussels
Authors: Waits Eric R , Smith Lucas M , Patnode Kathleen , Clayton Janet , McGregor Monte A , Bergdale Amy 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Here we describe the development and validation of quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays for the detection of North American unionid species of conservation concern and evaluate sampling methodologies that may influence the detection of these species via environmental DNA (eDNA). Taqman® assays were developed for the Federally-endangered Northern Riffleshell (Epioblasma rangiana), Snuffbox (Epioblasma triquetra), and the critically-imperiled Brook Floater (Alasmidonta varicosa). Primer and probe sets were tested for specificity against DNA from 74 Unionidae, including co-occurring species. In vitro tests consistently detected focal species at environmentally-relevant concentrations. No cross-amplifications were detected in non-target species for any of the eDNA assays confirming species specificity. The utility of each qPCR assay was evaluated against eDNA samples collected from streams across the Mid-Atlantic United States where target species’ presence or absence is documented. The assays successfully detected each focal species when present and no eDNA detections were observed when species were absent. Based on occupancy modeling, detection rates for each of the assays are greater than 95% when the appropriate level of effort is applied. The eDNA assays presented herein provide an efficient and non-invasive means to inventory and monitor rare freshwater mussel species and can be used to guide more localized traditional monitoring efforts.
Population Genomics of Tetraopes texanus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
Authors: Franzem Thomas P. , Bucholz Jamie R. , Lozier Jeffrey D. , Ferguson Paige F.B. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Specialist insects are especially susceptible to loss of genetic diversity in the face of habitat destruction and fragmentation. Implementing effective conservation practices for specialist insects will benefit from knowledge of population structure and genetic diversity. Due to the high diversity of insects, it is not feasible to gain inference as to the population structure of all species within the insect community, even when focusing on insects within a particular habitat type. Thus, identifying general trends by focusing on one or a few species specialized to a particular habitat type is necessary. We investigate the range-wide population genetics of Tetraopes texanus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), which provides a useful model of grassland insects due to its’ habitat specificity, limited dispersal range, and unique biology. Tetraopes texanus occurs primarily in Texas and Oklahoma, but also occurs in Black Belt prairies of Mississippi and Alabama. Mitochondrial and nuclear DNA (RAD-seq) analysis identified two distinct population clusters of T. texanus corresponding to the Texas and Oklahoma population and the Mississippi and Alabama population. Demographic models indicate ongoing, though incomplete, isolation of the two populations, with estimated dates of divergence in the mid-Pleistocene, coinciding with the end of a glacial period and a shift in glacial interval.
SWEMniCS - A Software Toolbox for Modeling Coastal Ocean Circulation, Storm Surges, Inland, and Compound Flooding
Authors: Dawson Clint , Loveland Mark , Pachev Benjamin , Valseth Eirik , Proft Jennifer 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Flooding from storm surges, rainfall runoff, as well as their interaction into compounding events are major natural hazards in coastal regions. To assess risks of damages to human life and properties alike, accurate and flexible numerical models are needed to guide emergency responses as well as long-term risk assessments. High-fidelity numerical models, such as the ADvanced-CIRCulation (ADCIRC) model have over many decades shown their usefulness and promise to perform exactly such assessments. However, these models have a relative high threshold in terms of new user engagement as development and compilation is not trivial for users and programmers trained in compiled programming languages, such as Python or Julia.
In this work, we develop a new open-source finite element solver for numerical simulation of coastal, fluvial, and pluvial flooding. The numerical solution procedure of the underlying partial differential equations is developed based on a Python package for FE methods - FEniCSx and uses finite difference schemes to perform temporal discretizations. The goal is to provide a lean framework where new methods and techniques can be rapidly tested for appropriate applications before the cumbersome development into codes such as ADCIRC are undertaken.
We demonstrate an validate the developed framework on common shallow water test cases, as well as large-scale computations in the Gulf of Mexico for Hurricane Ike (2008).