bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization of briquettes developed from water hyacinth and groundnut shell blends-The case of Lake Tana
Authors: Amare Wubalem , Alemayehu Fasil , Fissiha Destaw 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Ethiopia’s energy relies mainly on biomass sources, residues of crops and animal dung collections. Over 90% of domestic energy needs in Ethiopia are met by biomass, which contributes to deforestation and climate change. This study investigates the usage of water hyacinth and country’s largely produced agricultural waste (groundnut shells) for the production of briquettes using potato peels as a binder.
Methods
Water hyacinth, groundnut shells, and potato peel waste were used for production of briquettes. Briquettes were prepared using three parameters; temperature (350 ℃, 450 ℃ and 550 ℃), particle size (0.5, 1 and 1.5mm) and mixing ratio (25%, 50% and 75%). Physical properties and calorific values for the developed briquettes were determined using FTIR machine and bomb calorimeter. Central composite design by the design expert was used to design the experiment, and response surface methodology was used to optimize the calorific value of the produced briquettes. Statistical analysis tool such as analysis of variance was employed to show whether the process variables were statistically significant on the response variable (P < 0.05).
Results
The developed briquettes had the highest calorific value, 25.52 MJ/kg. The maximum bulk density and durability of the produced briquettes were 0.553% and 97.86%, respectively. The moisture content, volatile matter, ash content, and fixed carbon content of water hyacinth biomass were 8.14%, 68.49%, 10.3% and 13.06%, respectively. The moisture content, volatile matter, ash content, and fixed carbon of the groundnut shells were 9.2%, 66.84%, 3.615% and 20.34%, respectively. The produced briquettes had a moisture content ranging from 8.470–11.760%, and ash content ranging from 5.850–8.750%. Temperature, particle size and mixing ratio were statistically significant on the calorific value of the briquettes (p < 0.05). The optimised briquettes have a calorific value of 24.544 MJ/kg, at a temperature, particle size and mixing ratio of 453.380℃, 0.999 mm, and 50%, respectively.
Conclusion
The produced briquettes had good calorific value, bulk density and durability, and were suitable for cooking and heating purposes. This revealed that agricultural wastes could be used to augment the energy sources pool to protect the environment and create social stability in the community.
Magnitude and Associated Factors of Dignity Preservation Among Hospitalized Patients, Mwanza Region Northwestern Tanzania. A cross sectional study
Authors: Mabega Ndakibae Gabriel , Mwaisungu Halima , Lazaro Haule Amon Solomon , Mwing’a Gerald Phares 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Dignity is considered a fundamental human right and is recognized as one of the core concepts in patient care. Human beings have an intrinsic value that differentiates them from other creatures and thus deserve respect and privacy irrespective of their position. Therefore, a violation of human dignity is also regarded as a violation of human rights. This study aimed to determine the magnitude of dignity preservation and its associated factors among hospitalized patients.
Material and Methods: Thiscross-sectional study was conducted on 270 hospitalized patients in the two teaching hospitals of Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) and Mwanza Regional Referral Hospital. Data were collected by a questionnaire of two sections: (a) Demographic characteristics and (b) Patient dignity scale, including 32 statements. Data were analyzed by Stata version 15E software, whereby a student’s t-test statistic was used to compare the total dignity mean score of demographic variables with two categories and the ANOVA test statistic for comparison of the total dignity mean score of demographic and other variables with more than two categories.
Results: Majority of patients 175(64.8%) were not informed about their basic rights. There was a significant difference in the mean score of total dignity among males and females (p=0.016), single and married people (p=0.005), those who attended Bugando Medical Centre and Mwanza Regional Referral Hospital (Sekouture) (p=0.002), and those who were admitted to a private and general ward (p=0.029).
Conclusion: The healthcare system should consider dignity preservation through comprehensive education to healthcare providers about the importance of dignified care and patient rights in hospitals.
Exchange-correlation kernel for perturbation dependent auxiliary functions in auxiliary density perturbation theory
Authors: Hernandez-Segura Luis-Ignacio , Olvera-Rubalcava Flor-Andreas , Flores-Moreno Roberto , Calaminici Patrizia , Köster Andreas 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this paper the working equation for the exchange-correlation kernel of the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) for perturbation dependent auxiliary functions is derived and discussed in the framework of auxiliary density functional theory (ADFT). The presented new formulation is extended to the unrestricted approach, too. A comprehensive discussion of the implementation of the GGA ADFT kernel, using either the native exchange-correlation functional implementations in deMon2k or the ones from the LibXC library is given. Calculations with analytic exchange-correlation kernels are compared to their finite difference counterparts. The obtained results are in quantitative agreement. Nevertheless, analytic GGA ADFT kernel implementations show substantial improvement in the computational performance. Similar results are reported for analytic second derivatives of effective core potential (ECP) and model core potential (MCP) matrix elements when compared to their finite difference counterparts in molecular frequency analyses.
Guar Gum and Ethyl Cellulose Nanoparticles Encapsulating Capecitabine for the Management of Colorectal Cancer: Formulation and Assessment
Authors: Pasupathy A , Rathore Seema S. , S Umadevi , Jenita⃰ J. Josephine Leno 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Currently, most nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery systems are targeted towards cancer therapy. The guar gum and ethyl cellulose nanoparticle-based delivery system developed in this study demonstrates the potential of nanotechnology-mediated approaches for the targeted and sustained delivery of capecitabine in managing colorectal cancer. Guar gum and Ethyl cellulose have been selected as polymers to formulate nanoparticles for colon targeting. Different batches of drug-loaded GG-EC nanoparticles were prepared by the emulsion solvent diffusion method. The optimal batch exhibited a particle dimension of 235.6 ± 4.28 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.153 and a zeta potential of -23.4 ± 3.12 millivolts. The in vitro drug release pattern demonstrated that the liberation of capecitabine was sustained for 24 hours. The mechanism of drug release from formulated nanoparticles was followed with Non-Fickian mediated with diffusion-controlled. Animal studies determined the targeting efficiency of the ideal formulation. Results indicated that the concentration of capecitabine was higher than the standard drug. The distinctive characteristics of the polymers employed in the nanoparticle formulation facilitate specific drug discharge in the colon, diminishing systemic contact and amplifying remedial effectiveness.
Maximizing the Benefits of WES Data for Clinical Diagnosis of individuals with Differences/Variations of Sex Development
Authors: Decken Isabel von der , Gutiérrez Daniel Rodríguez , Sproll Patrick , Opitz Lennart , Stevenson Brian , Azimi Hamid , Lang-Muritano Mariarosaria , Konrad Daniel , Lenherr-Taube Nina , Kennedy Uchenna , L’Allemand Dagmar , Livshits Ludmila , Raafat Shaymaa , Nef Serge , Biason-Lauber Anna 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Variations of Sex Development (VSD) are conditions where genetic and anatomical features do not align with typical male or female characteristics, often due to sex chromosome differences, hormonal imbalances, or other genetic factors. Diagnosing the genetic etiology of VSD can be challenging due to the complex and variable nature of the condition. We developed a whole exome sequencing (WES) pipeline, demonstrating WES as an all-in-one genetic testing tool. It offers reliable karyotyping and SRY gene detection, potentially replacing costly and time-consuming karyotyping and FISH assays. Our pipeline tests all known and candidate VSD genes simultaneously, avoiding the need for single-gene tests. A customized filtering system, including a blacklist of variants from healthy controls, enhances variant detection. Among 171 subjects with a VSD diagnosis of unresolved etiology, our pipeline provided probable genetic diagnoses for 50 patients, identifying two chromosomal aberrations, one SRY translocation missed by initial FISH-assay, and 47 point mutations in known VSD genes, 18 of which are novel. Overall, WES consolidates multiple genetic tests into one, making it a more accessible and cost-effective diagnostic tool for clinics, usable by non-experts.
Mendelian Randomization Study on the Causal Relationship and Mediation Effects of Different Lifestyle Factors on Neurological Diseases: Exploring the Connection between the Glymphatic System and the Nervous System
Authors: Hou Weiyu , Zhao Xueming 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the causal associations and mediation effects involving pulse rate, NrCAM, migraine, and various neurological disorders within the context of the glymphatic system. Through bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, simple, parallel, and serial mediation models, as well as a disease network approach, significant relationships and pathways are elucidated. Key findings include the influence of pulse rate on neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) expression, the role of NrCAM in mediating migraine, and the impact of neurological disorders like stroke and Parkinson's disease (PD) on molecular pathways. The study highlights NrCAM as a pivotal molecule in the glymphatic system influenced by lifestyle factors, with implications for migraine pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. Moreover, pulse rate emerges as an initiating factor affecting molecular changes, with neurological disorders acting as mediators. The complex interplay between lifestyle, physiological factors, molecules, and neurological disorders underscores the intricate network of causality in neurological pathologies. Understanding these interactions offers insights for targeted interventions and personalized treatments, emphasizing the importance of optimizing glymphatic function for neurological disease prevention and management.
Comprehensive analysis of lncRNAs and mRNAs expression profiles unveils antiviral roles of lncRNAs and regulatory pathways in LSDV-infected MDBK cells
Authors: Liao Kai , Wang Hao , He Wei , Qian Bingxu , Jia Xiaoran , Cao Yuying , Wen Yuan , Liu Cong , Zeng Dexin , Tang Fang , Dai Jianjun , Li Chao , Xue Feng 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), a member of the Poxviridae family, is primarily characterized by the formation of skin nodules in cattle. In our study, RNA sequencing was employed to investigate LSDV-infected Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cells. At 4 hours post-infection (hpi), 108 differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (delncRNAs) were identified. A co-expressed functional analysis indicated that lncRNAs may influence cellular glycometabolic processes. Additionally, we observed 798 differentially expressed mRNAs (demRNAs), predominantly associated with lipopeptide-induced immune response pathways in enrichment analyses. These findings indicate an active cellular defense against the poxvirus at this early stage. At 24 hpi, 1101 delncRNAs were identified, impacting cell metabolism, especially glycometabolism. Notably, two LncRNAs, which interacted with MAPK3, emerged as potential central regulators in the lncRNA-mRNA cis-regulation network. The number of demRNAs surged to 5295, with KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealing associations with various diseases. This late phase marked a critical juncture, as the virus inflicted near-total cellular destruction, resulting in severe pathological conditions. Moreover, two of the demRNAs at 4 hpi, AV5191 and AV15574, were shown to inhibit LSDV replication in MDBK cells. The LSDV-induced host lncRNA/mRNA profiles reveal intricate regulatory dynamics, providing a foundational and robust public resource for understanding the nuanced mechanisms in poxvirus-host interactions.
Geomorphic hazards of torrential floods in Wadi Abu-Hasah El-Bahari and their impact on The Royal Tomb of Akhenaten, Minia Governorate, Upper Egypt
Authors: Torab Magdy , Bardan Emad El 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Wadi Abu-Hasah El-Bahari is located in the Minia Governorate, Upper Egypt, around 60 km south of Minia city. Geomorphologists, archaeologists, and anyone concerned with preserving Egypt's pharaonic heritage are particularly interested in this valley because it exposes this beautiful Royal Tomb of Akhenaten to the hazards of frequent torrential floods. Given the design of the tomb's construction and the potential for subsequent flooding, weathering processes and soil erosion pose significant hazards for the tomb. The objective of this paper is to define the effects and causes of geomorphological hazards caused by floods on the Wadi Abu-Hasah El-Bahari basin and the royal tomb of Akhenaten. To do this, we will use satellite images, do a lot of fieldwork in the valley, and use runoff analysis, which includes a number of morphometric parameters and valley flood analysis models, to find possible dangers from heavy floods in the valley basin and around the royal tomb. The study shows that the tomb's location at the same level as the bottom of the valley stream makes it particularly vulnerable to damage from debris torrent processes stemming from flood events in the Wadi. The result is that past sediment accumulations in various channels along the Wadi have become mobilized during these periods of flooding and now pose a risk to Tomb Conservation through post-flooding debris deposition.
Empirical Analysis of the Impact of Urban Sprawl on Carbon Emission Intensity of Cities in the Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Jiang Weizong , Xu Jianhui , Zhao Tian , Hu Feng , Yu Linghua 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This paper constructs an urban sprawl index (USI) based on nighttime lighting data, and explores the impact of urban sprawl on carbon emission intensity (CEI) using panel data model and spatial econometric model. The results show that: (1) In the correlation test between the USI constructed based on nighttime lighting data and the USI constructed from statistical data, most models yield significantly positive results. The USI constructed from nighttime lighting data can be used to characterize urban sprawl. (2) The USI and CEI in the Yangtze River Basin decreased overall. The distance between CEI and USI exhibited a general trend of widening, leading to a gradual weakening of the influence between the two. In spatial distribution, the USI experienced minimal change overall, whereas the second-highest intensity of CEI was notably concentrated towards the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. (3) There is a significant U-shaped relationship and spillover effect between CEI and USI. The impact of the level of economic development and the extent of greening is more pronounced, while the influence of other variables is relatively minor. The results of the study suggest that spatial planning should be tailored to the local economic development status. It is important to leverage the benefits of population agglomeration to enhance the capacity of urban ecological resources and encourage sustainable production practices in cities within the Yangtze River Basin.
Giardia lamblia infection and associated risk factors among patients seeking stool examination at Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital, West Guji Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Aliyo Alqeer , Taye Nebiyu , Ashenafi Girma 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Giardiasis is one of the major health problems in our country due to the use of contaminated water for drinking and the lack of awareness practices, such as washing fruits before eating and hand washing after latrine usage. Although few studies have been conducted in different parts of Ethiopia, a varied prevalence and associated factors are reported. Therefore, the current study is updated with information.
Objective: To assess the prevalence of G. lamblia infection and associated risk factors among patients who seek stool examination at Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital, West Guji Zone, Ethiopia, in 2023.
Methods A facility-based cross-sectional study of 137 patients seeking stool examinations was conducted from February 15 to March 15, 2023. A systematic random sampling method was used to select study participants. The stool samples were examined using the wet mount technique. Descriptive and inferential analyzes were performed. The chi-square test was performed. A p value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The results of this study revealed that the prevalence of G. lamblia infection was 18.7% [95% CI 12.1-25.3]. This study revealed that factors such as residency (χ2 = 2.82, P = 0.027), maintaining food hygiene (χ2 = 6.6, P = 0.03), hand washing before a meal (χ2 = 4.25, P = 0.003), source of water for drinking (χ2 = 12.6, P = 0.0001), and patient finger nails (χ2 = 3.47, P = 0.026) were significantly associated with G. lamblia among patients.
Conclusions and recommendations: Giardia lamblia was seen among one-fifth of the patients who sought a stool examination. Health facility managers and health care providers work hard to improve patient quality of stool microscopic examination and health education about ways of transmission of giardiasis to decrease the prevalence of G. lamblia.
Xanthohumol Suppresses Endometrial Cancer Cell Proliferation via Promotion of Smurf1-mediated ACLY Ubiquitination and Degradation
Authors: Hu Chenyu , Yang Mulin , Xu Junying , Tian Jiazhen , Zhang Ting , Abulizi Amier , Zhang Jun , Mi Xiangquan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

ATP citrate lyase (ACLY) is pivotal in de novo fatty acid synthesis. It emerges as a core metabolic enzyme implicated in malignant tumor progression, especially in Endometrial Cancer (EC). The present investigation revealed that Xanthohumol (XN), a naturally prenylated flavonoid, is a novel inactivator of ACLY. XN demonstrates a significant reduction in de novo fatty acid synthesis and concurrent inhibition of cell proliferation in EC. Moreover, XN directly inhibits ACLY enzyme activity and facilitates Smurf1-mediated ACLY ubiquitination and degradation. The research revealed that the knockdown of ACLY reduced fatty acid synthesis, proliferation, and colony formation in EC cells. Conversely, contrasting results were observed upon ACLY overexpression. Additionally, treatment with XN inhibited fatty acid synthesis, cell proliferation, and colony formation, inducing non-apoptotic cell death and G0/G1 cycle arrest by downregulating ACLY expression. The crucial involvement of Smurf1-mediated ACLY ubiquitination in the XN-induced downregulation of ACLY was also highlighted. Notably, the role of the E3 ubiquitin ligase Smurf1 in mediating the ubiquitination of ACLY is reported here for the first time. Furthermore, these findings indicated the potential of ACLY as a prospective drug target for EC. Considering the inhibitory effect of XN on ACLY, it presents encouraging prospects for treating EC.
The Sorption/Desorption of Phenanthrene and Ofloxacin by Microbial Residue-Mineral Composites: Different Substrate-C and Minerals
Authors: Yan Qiuling , Tan Zhicheng , Li Zhongwen , Guo Jiawen , Li Yuxuan , Wang Siyao , Li Fangfang , Wang Lin , Peng Hongbo 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Microbial residue-mineral composites are important components of stabilizing soil carbon pool, and sorption/desorption of organic contaminants on the composites affects their transport in the soil. Here, we obtained the microbial residue-mineral composites by inoculating the model soil (33% Hematite + 67% Quartz sand (FQ), or 33% Montmorillonite + 67% Quartz sand (MQ), w/w) with natural soil microorganisms and adding different substrate-C (Glycine (G), Glucose (P), or 2, 6-Dimethoxyphenol (B)) for incubation, which were named as GF, PF, BF, GM, BM, PM, respectively. Then performed batch adsorption and desorption experiments of phenanthrene (PHE) and ofloxacin (OFL). Composites cultured with 2,6-dimethoxyphenol had the highest carbon content (0.98% on FQ, 2.11% on MQ), whereas those cultured with glycine had the lowest (0.24% on FQ, 0.64% on MQ). And the carbon content of composites incubated with MQ (0.64%~2.11%) was higher than that with FQ (0.24%~0.98%) at different carbon matrix additions, indicating that more microbial residues were formed on composites incubated with MQ compared to FQ. Perhaps montmorillonite facilitated the accumulation of microbial residues due to its large specific surface area. The sorption of PHE by composites, especially BM, was higher than MQ but lower than FQ. Moreover, the sorption of OFL was related to properties of microbial residues. The release ratio (RR) of PHE adsorbed by composites had positively correlated with the concentration in the solid phase. The RR of OFL is almost zero for both high and low concentrations, indicating that sorption of OFL on composites is stable. Thus, microbial residue-mineral composites can reduce the risk of migration of organic contaminants in soil, especially the ionic organic contaminants.
Cytogenetic identification and molecular marker development of a novel Wheat - Psathyrostachys huashanica 2NsS (2D) fragment disomic substitution line with resistance to stripe rust
Authors: Wang Yuesheng , Ge Dongdong , Deng Pingchuan , Liu Xinlun , Li Tingdong , Wang Changyou , Chen Chunhuan , Zhao Jixin , Ji Wanquan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Psathyrostachys huashanica Keng (2n = 2x = 14, NsNs) is a rare and unique species of grass that is native to China. It is a significant genetic resource for wheat breeding because of the multiple beneficial features that can be used in wheat improvement programs.
Results
The study isolated a novel wheat - P. huashanica derived line 18TR61 from the progeny of common wheat 7182 and P. huashanica. Cytological studies revealed that 18TR61 has chromosome karyotype of 2n = 42 = 21II; Genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) and non-denaturing fluorescence in situ hybridization (ND-FISH) experiments confirmed that two 2D chromosomes in line 18TR61 were replaced by two incomplete Ns chromosomes. Meanwhile, it has been observed that 18TR61 exhibits structural variations in chromosomes 2B, 7B, and 5A when compared to its parents. Molecular markers and GenoBaits®WheatplusPh microarray analysis indicated that the alien chromosomes originated from P. huashanica 2Ns. Based on karyotype observations, it was incomplete in length, and contains all of the short arm, centromere, and fragment of the long arm. Assessment of agronomic traits showed that 18TR61 outperformed its parents in terms of stripe rust resistance in the adult plant stage, as well as spike length and grain size.
Conclusions
As a result, 18TR61 was identified as a wheat - P. huashanica 2NsS (2D) fragment disomic substitution. Furthermore, the established 15 specific markers were beneficial for the quick identification of heterologous material containing the 2Ns chromosome in the wheat background. This line offered a possible bridge for wheat genetic improvement on disease resistance to stripe rust and yield.