bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cytogenotoxicity assessment of diesel and petrol automobile exhaust soot nanoparticles in erythrocytes of Channa punctatus fish
Authors: Goswami Sakshi , Singh Meenu , Arya Parul , Rani Varsha , Kumar Satyendra , Verma Yeshvandra , Rana Suresh Vir Singh 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Nanoparticles derived from automobile exhaust may tend to travel hundreds of miles from their source of emissions and have an adverse impact on environmental health. Numerous studies have reported that the aquatic environment is known to be a natural recipient of environmental contaminants from the soil and air, which makes aquatic organisms vulnerable to contamination by ultrafine particles/nanoparticles. The present report aimed to investigate the cytogenotoxic potential of sublethal concentrations (0.05 ppm) of diesel and petrol automobile exhaust soot nanoparticles (DAESNPs and PAESNPs) in erythrocytes of the freshwater fish Channa punctatus. Morphological alterations (macrocytes, microcytes, kidney shaped, dacrocytes, notched, burr, sickle shaped and flask shaped), nuclear alterations (bean shaped, notched, lobbed, bud shaped, blebbed and condensed), MNs, oxidative stress, DNA damage and apoptosis were assessed. Increased frequencies of morphological alterations ( average of 7.12 ± 0.71, and 7.24 ± 0.84 in DAESNP- and PAESNP- treated fish, respectively), nuclear alterations ( average of 10.60 ±1.97, and 11.99 ± 1.24 in DAESNP- and PAESNP- treated fish, respectively) and MNs (13.83 ± 0.16, and 11.83 ± 1.58 in DAESNP- and PAESNP- treated fish, respectively) were found. Similarly, compared with that in the control group, the level of malondialdehyde, a byproduct of lipid peroxidation was significantly greater, while the level of reduced glutathione was lower in the DAESNP- and PAESNP- exposed fish. The comet analysis parameters revealed that both DAESNPs and PAESNPs induced DNA damage. In addition, Annexin-V FITC/PI assay data demonstrated that DAESNPs and PAESNPs led to the induction of apoptosis. Our report suggested that morphological and nuclear alterations in the erythrocytes of experimental fish occur in response to genotoxic stress and oxidative stress induced by DAESNPs and PAESNPs. Nonetheless, the apoptosis provoked by DAESNPs and PAESNPs is due to DNA damage.
DiSCreet: Distributed Delivery Service with Context-Aware Cooperation
Authors: Paillat Ludovic , Ignat Claudia-Lavinia , Frey Davide , Turuani Mathieu , Ismail Amine 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
End-to-end encrypted messaging applications such as Signal became widely popular thanks to their capability to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of online communication. While the highest security guarantees were long reserved to two-party communication, solutions for n-party communication remained either inefficient or less secure until the standardization of the MLS Protocol (Messaging Layer Security). This new protocol offers an efficient way to provide end-to-end secure communication with the same guarantees originally offered by the Signal Protocol for two-party communication. However, both solutions still rely on a centralized component for message delivery, called the Delivery Service in the MLS Protocol. The centralization of the Delivery Service makes it an ideal target for attackers and threatens the availability of any protocol relying on MLS. In order to overcome this issue, we propose DiSCreet (Distributed delIvery Service with Context-awaRE coopEraTion), a design that allows clients to exchange protocol messages efficiently and without any intermediary. It uses a Probabilistic Reliable-Broadcast mechanism to efficiently deliver messages and the Cascade Consensus Protocol to handle messages requiring an agreement. Our solution strengthens the availability of the MLS Protocol without compromising its security. We compare the theoretical performance of DiSCreet with another distributed solution, the DGKA protocol, and detail the implementation of our solution.
Predicting Co-seismic Landslides Using Distance and Azimuth Achieves Better Results
Authors: Zhang Zhenguo , Shi Yang , Xue Changhu , Feng Yu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Most machine learning (ML) studies in predicting co-seismic landslides relied on the Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA). Yet, the accuracy of PGA-based models can be compromised due to the limited availability of near-source observations and spatial information regarding seismic faults. This limitation can result in significant discrepancies between the accumulated PGA and the actual ground shaking, which cannot be overlooked. Here we show the ML model using the distance and azimuth to the epicenter performs better than the model using PGA in terms of accuracy as well as actual prediction results. Considering their computational efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the ML models utilizing distance and azimuth to the epicenter as inputs could be used as an alternative to PGA-based models for evaluating the impact of co-seismic landslides. Particularly, these models prove advantageous in near real-time scenarios and settings that require high spatial resolution.
Experimental study on soil improvement by electrochemical injection of calcium chloride solutions with time interval
Authors: Han Shaoyang , Wang Baotian , Wang Yu , Liu Wenpeng , Chen Chenghao , Zhang Yijiang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Injection of chemical solutions during electroosmosis is effective in enhancing the effect of electroosmosis and increasing the strength of soil. However, the improvement is mostly limited to the anode or cathode region. An improved method is proposed in this paper to enhance the non-uniform effect and efficiency of electroosmosis. Such method is electroosmosis with injection of calcium chloride through the anode, followed by injection through the central tube with a suitable time interval between injections. Experimental results indicate that using this method can significantly improve the non-uniform reduction in water content throughout the soil, mitigate the formation of cracks in the anode section, and therefore considerably inhibit the increase in the electric resistance. After treatment, the drained water could be raised to 3.59 times more than that of pure electroosmosis, and 1.3 times that of simultaneous injection through both the anode and the central tube. Moreover, the area of cementation was also expanded, approximately twice larger than that of pure electroosmosis and one and a half that of simultaneous injection. The results demonstrate that electroosmosis with a suitable time interval between injections could improve the efficiency of electroosmosis and expand the treatment region in soils.
Pricing Gamma Based Temperature Derivatives
Authors: Vwalika Kondwani Daniel , Dzupire Nelson 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Farmers are impacted by temperature as high temperatures during the rainy season can lead to a substantial decrease in crop production. To safeguard farmers from this risk, temperature derivatives can be used, but they are frequently mispriced. This study aims to address this issue by developing a Stochastic Differential Equation (SDE) for temperature, with the assumption that it conforms to a gamma distribution. A synthesis technique that effectively manages the auto correlation within the data is employed to deduce the SDE. The resulting pricing formula is based on the anticipated value derived from the SDE. Notably, the formulated equation’s outcome is not linked to the expected temperature itself, but rather hinges on the gamma distribution parameters and the trigger temperature. This approach yields accurate forecasts for both price predictions and temperature projections. The model is found to predict temperature with R2 = 91%, MSE = 0.14, and MAPE = 1.3%. When used to price call option, the prices decrease with increase in trigger value, which is more realistic. Thus, the model is more flexible.
A rare case of fetal neural tube defect; Iniencephaly clausus
Authors: Arega Bantayehu Nega , Endalew Sintayehu Debas , Hailu Daniel Miskir 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Iniencephaly is a rare type of neural tube defect characterized by the merging of the cervical and cervicothoracic vertebrae. This condition results in acute retroflexion of the head, a short neck, significant lordosis of the cervical spine, and ultimately an upturned face. Fetuses with iniencephaly often do not survive, with many being stillborn or dying shortly after birth. Here we are reporting a case of iniencephaly which was suspected on intrapartum ultrasound upon admission of a woman referred from a health center for diagnosis of preterm premature rupture of membrane and labor. The fetus died intrapartum a few minutes before delivery.
Improving Access to Communication Services by the Unserved and Underserved Communities in Uganda Through Information Communication Technology
Authors: Kituyi Geoffrey Mayoka , Abaho Ernest , Aguma Dennis , Nkambwe Ismael 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This study sought to identify the key constraints faced by the unserved and underserved communities, the current interventions in supporting the unserved and underserved communities and sectors to access communication services, and the potential solutions for narrowing the digital divide. Data was collected from 44 companies randomly selected a total of 53 companies that participated in the e-Booster 2023 Uganda programme. A questionnaire was designed and digitized via Google forms to support easy and real-time data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics including percentages, means and frequencies. Analysed data were presented using graphs and tables for easy understanding and interpretation. The major challenges faced by underserved and underserved communities in Uganda were identified as poor of infrastructure, limited access to electricity, high cost of digital devices and internet connectivity, high illiteracy rates, lack of awareness, regulatory barriers, language barriers, insecurity, and gender disparities. On the other hand, the main interventions by Uganda government were extension of network coverage to remote areas, promotion of digital literacy programs, reduction of taxation on communication devices and services, creation of regulatory frameworks that encourage investment in underserved regions, setting up community tele-centers, promotion of digital literacy programs, promotion of affordability initiatives, and promotion of local content. Proposed solutions for improved access were identified as the need to expand broadband infrastructure, bolstering the Universal Service Fund, promoting Public-Private Partnerships, establishing community networks, implementing mobile connectivity solutions, advancing digital literacy programs, ensuring digital affordability, encouraging local content creation, providing incentives for telecommunications companies, supporting startups with government initiatives, facilitating mobile money services and financial inclusion, investing in rural electrification, and fostering community engagement and awareness campaigns.
Camellia sinensis var. Assamica cv. Duntsa (Theaceae) chloroplast genome and comparative analysis: mutational hotspots and phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Li Jin , Qiu Xiao-Yan , Tang Han , Tang Jun , Zhong Ni , Liu Tian-Tian , Xiao Li-Zheng , Luo Hua 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background: Camellia sinensis var. assamica cv. Duntsa (C. duntsa) is an ancient tea accession in Hunan China. In order to understand the genetic background information of C. duntsa, clarify the relationship between C. duntsa and other tea trees. we sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of C. duntsa using the Illumina NovaSeq platform and compared it to other published chloroplast genomes from tea plants.
Results: The C. duntsa chloroplast genome is 157,025 bp in length with a GC content of 37.30%. It consists of a short single copy (SSC) region (18,277 bp), a large single copy (LSC) region (86,586 bp), and two inverted repeat regions (IRs) (26,081 bp). A total of 135 genes were identified, including 87 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 8 ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), 37 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and 3 pseudogene genes (2 ycf15 and 1 ycf1). In addition, a total of 968 long repetitive sequences were detected by comparative analysis with other tea tree chloroplast genes, of which 409 were forward, 557 were palindromic, and 2 were reverse. Among the 241-249 SSRs loci analyzed for comparison, most of them were single nucleic acid loci composed of A/T. Besides, 6 mutation hotspots (rpoC1, ycf1, petB, ndhD, rpl16, rpoC2) were identified.
Conclusion: Phylogenetic analysis showed that C. duntsa shows a relatively close evolutionary relationship with Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Anhua, Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Fudingdabaicha, and Camellia ptilophylla. The results can provide valuable information for better understanding Camellia species chloroplast evolution.
Intra-neuronal alpha-synuclein deposition is related to cardiac noradrenergic deficiency and olfactory dysfunction in neurogenic orthostatic hypotension
Authors: Isonaka Risa , Sullivan Patti , Holmes Courtney , Goldstein David S. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Purpose: Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) results from deficient reflexive delivery of norepinephrine to cardiovascular receptors in response to decreased cardiac venous return. Lewy body (LB) forms of nOH entail low 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity (a measure of cardiac noradrenergic deficiency), olfactory dysfunction by the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), and increased deposition of alpha-synuclein (ɑ-syn) in dermal sympathetic noradrenergic nerves by the ɑ-syn-tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) colocalization index. This observational, cross-sectional study explored whether combinations of these biomarkers specifically identify LB forms of nOH.
Methods: Clinical laboratory data were reviewed from patients referred for evaluation at the National Institutes of Health for chronic autonomic failure between 2011 and 2023. The cutoff value for low myocardial 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity was 6,000 nCi-kg/cc-mCi, for olfactory dysfunction an UPSIT score ≤ 28, and for an increased ɑ-syn-TH colocalization index ≥ 1.57.
Results: A total of 44 patients (31 LB, 13 non-LB nOH) had data for all 3 biomarkers. Compared to the non-LB group, the LB nOH group had low myocardial 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity, low UPSIT scores, and high ɑ-syn-TH colocalization indexes (p<0.0001 each). Combining the 3 biomarkers completely separated the groups. Cluster analysis identified 2 distinct groups (p<0.0001) independently of the clinical diagnosis, 1 cluster corresponding exactly to LB nOH.
Conclusion: LB forms of nOH feature cardiac noradrenergic deficiency, olfactory dysfunction, and increased ɑ-syn-TH colocalization in skin biopsies. Combining the data for these variables efficiently separates LB from non-LB nOH. Independently of the clinical diagnosis, this biomarker triad identifies a pathophysiologically distinct cluster of nOH patients.
Efficient quaternion CUR method for low-rank approximation to quaternion matrix
Authors: Wu Pengling , Kou Kit Ian , Cai Hongmin , Yu Zhaoyuan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The low-rank quaternion matrix approximation has been successfully applied in many applications involving signal processing and color image processing. However, the cost of quaternion models for generating low-rank quaternion matrix approximation is sometimes considerable due to the computation of the quaternion singular value decomposition (QSVD), which limits their application to real large-scale data. To address this deficiency, an efficient quaternion matrix CUR (QMCUR) method for low-rank approximation is suggested , which provides significant acceleration in color image processing. We first explore the QMCUR approximation method, which uses actual columns and rows of the given quaternion matrix, instead of the costly QSVD. Additionally, two different sampling strategies are used to sample the above-selected columns and rows. Then, the perturbation analysis is performed on the QMCUR approximation of noisy versions of low-rank quater-nion matrices. Extensive experiments on both synthetic and real data further reveal the superiority of the proposed algorithm compared with other algorithms for getting low-rank approximation, in terms of both efficiency and accuracy.
Clinician response after receipt of abnormal pediatric ambulatory blood pressure monitoring – characteristics associated with inertia and action
Authors: Gelderen Evelien van , Psoter Kevin J. , Faria Rafi , Pruette Cozumel , Brady Tammy M. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is recommended for diagnosis and management of hypertension. We aimed to identify characteristics associated with physician action after receipt of abnormal findings.
Methods
This was a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of patients 5–22 years old who underwent 24-hr ABPM between 2003–2022, met criteria for masked or ambulatory hypertension, and had a pediatric nephrology clinic visit within 2 weeks of ABPM. “Action” was defined as medication change/initiation, lifestyle or adherence counseling, evaluation ordered, or interpretation with no change. Characteristics of children with/without 1 or more actions were compared using Student t tests and Chi square. Regression analyses explored the independent association of patient characteristics with physician action.
Results
115 patients with masked (n = 53) and ambulatory (n = 62) hypertension were included: mean age 13.0 years, 48% female, 38% Black race, and 21% with chronic kidney disease. 97 (84%) of encounters had a documented physician action. Medication change (52%), evaluation ordered (40%), and prescribed lifestyle change (35%) were the most common actions. Adherence counseling for medication and lifestyle recommendations were documented in 3% of encounters. 24-hr, wake SBP load, and sleep DBP load were significantly higher among those with physician action. Patients with > 1 action had greater adiposity, SBP, and dipping. Neither age, obesity, nor kidney disease were independently associated with physician action.
Conclusions
While most abnormal ABPMs were acted upon, 16% did not have a documented action. Greater BP load was one of the few characteristics associated with physician action. Of potential actions, adherence counseling was underutilized.
Minocycline prevents early age-related cognitive decline in a mouse model of intellectual disability caused by ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency
Authors: Tanaka Tomoko , Hirai Shinobu , Manabe Hiroyuki , Endo Kentaro , Shimbo Hiroko , Nishito Yasumasa , Yoshitane Hikari , Okado Haruo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Transcriptional repressor ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency, which comprises heterozygous ZBTB18/RP58 missense and truncating variants, causes intellectual disability. However, the mechanism responsible for the onset of intellectual disability, and whether this disorder can be prevented and treated, are unknown. We focused on changes in cognitive function about adulthood in intellectual disability. Heterozygous Zbtb18/Rp58-knockout mice were used as a model for ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency. We assessed multiple behaviors and local field potential, examined DNA fragmentation and mitochondrial morphology, and performed histochemical analysis and transcriptome analysis in the hippocampus to evaluate chronic inflammation. Object location memory assessed by an object location test in wild-type mice was the same in 2 and 4–5-month-old mice, but it was impaired in 12–18-month-old mice. By contrast, object location memory in 2-month-old Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice was similar to that in age-matched wild-type mice but was impaired by 4–5-months of age, indicating the early onset of impaired spatial memory in the mutant mice. Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice exhibited early onset of DNA damage accumulation and an increment of activated microglia in the dentate gyrus that was associated with defective DNA repair. Because dementia is an established comorbidity in persons with intellectual disability, mutant mice may have mimicked not only delay of cognitive function but also an acquired cognitive impairment. Notably, chronic minocycline therapy, which has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, attenuated age-related phenotypes, such as accumulation of DNA damage, an increase of microglial activation and impairment of object location memory, in Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice. In conclusion, Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice showed early onset of cognitive decline caused by inflammation with a defect in DNA repair. Minocycline prevented early-onset cognitive decline, suggesting that it could have potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency-associated cognitive dysfunction.
With aging, where should innovation go? -- Interpretation based on the perspective of human capital
Authors: Cui Jinghang , Zhou Rong 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background With population aging, this demographic dividend diminishes, which may have implications for innovation in a region. Understanding the relationship between population aging and innovation is crucial for addressing economic challenges associated with an aging population.Methods This study utilized panel data on population aging and innovation from 252 cities between 2005 and 2014. Various estimation methods, including the fixed effects model, the generalized method of moments (GMM), and the mediation model, were used to analyze the data. These methods allowed for a comprehensive examination of the impact of population aging on innovation and the role of human capital in mediating this relationship.Results The findings of the study indicate that both the 60-year-old and 65-year-old population significantly hinder innovation. The GMM suggests that innovation is "path dependent," meaning that past levels of innovation do not alleviate the negative effects of population aging on future innovation. Additionally, the mediation model analysis demonstrates that human capital plays a crucial role in mediating the relationship between population aging and innovation, highlighting the importance of investing in human capital development.Conclusions The findings of this research highlight the obstacles that population aging presents to fostering innovation. Overcoming these obstacles necessitates strategic investments in human capital and policies that support innovation. It is imperative for policymakers to implement recommendations that address population aging and encourage innovation in order to navigate the challenges posed by an aging population and promote a vibrant and dynamic economy.
Measuring Financial Efficiency in China
Authors: Zheng Chuanzhen , Duan Kaifeng , Shan Yuan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This paper develops a comprehensive and standardized framework for quantitatively assessing the financial efficiency of a nation. We establish a crucial link between the financial sector and the real sector, indirectly unveiling insights into financial efficiency through the allocation structure of marginal capital output. We use a two-stage semiparametric estimation method to eliminate the endogeneity of the production function in the calculation of financial efficiency. The values of financial efficiency for China spanning the years 1997 to 2018 exhibit a distinct pattern of initially increasing, followed by a decline, and subsequent resurgence, culminating in the highest recorded value in 2008. Prior to 2015, the financial efficiency closely mirrored the trajectories of total factor productivity (TFP) and GDP growth rate. However, post-2015, we observe a discernible deviation in the trend of financial efficiency from these two economic indicators. These results can be verified by external empirical facts and evidence.