bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plastid DNA is a major source of nuclear genome complexity and of RNA genes in the orphan crop moringa
Authors: Marczuk-Rojas Juan Pablo , Salmerón Antonio , Alcayde Alfredo , Isanbaev Viktor , Carretero-Paulet Lorenzo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background:
Unlike Transposable Elements (TEs) and gene/genome duplication, the role of the so-called nuclear plastid DNA sequences (NUPTs) in shaping the evolution of genome architecture and function remains poorly studied. We investigate here the functional and evolutionary fate of NUPTs in the orphan crop Moringa oleifera (moringa), featured by the highest fraction of plastid DNA found so far in any plant genome, focusing on i) any potential biases in their distribution in relation to specific nuclear genomic features, ii) their contribution to the emergence of new genes and gene regions, and iii) their impact on the expression of target nuclear genes.
Results:
In agreement with their potential mutagenic effect, NUPTs are underrepresented among structural genes, although their transcription levels and broadness were only lower when involving exonic regions; the occurrence of plastid DNA did not generally result in a broader expression, except among those affected in introns by older NUPTs. In contrast, we found a strong enrichment of NUPTs among several classes of RNA genes, especially those involved in the protein biosynthetic machinery (i.e., rRNA and tRNA genes) and specific classes of regulatory RNAs; a significant fraction of these is functionally expressed, thus potentially contributing to the nuclear pool.
Conclusions:
Our results complete our view of the molecular factors driving the evolution of nuclear genome architecture and function, and support plastid DNA in moringa as a major source of i) genome complexity and, ii) the nuclear pool of RNA genes.
Novel dendrimer-like N-doped TiO 2 -Fe 2 O 3 /C derived from bimetallic Ti-Fe-MOFs for the photocatalytic degradation
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Jia , Chen Lianxi , Zhang Zeyin , Lv Bo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In this study, N-doped TiO2-Fe2O3/C nanostructure is prepared by mixing of the precursors of both metals (Ti and Fe) with the N doped ligand precursor in the same process and further being calcined at 500oC directly in air atmosphere. Herein, other three different Ti-MOFs precursors and its derivatives were also obtained in the same way for comparison of structure and performance. Interestingly, the obtained products derived from N doped bimetallic Ti-Fe MOFs display a particularly dendritic structure with large surface area and well mesoporous structures. Meanwhile, it was further confirmed from FTIR and XPS results that the derivatives were still retain N and C components after calcination in air condition which is beneficial to improve the photocatalytic activity. Finally, the prepared N doped dendritic bimetallic structure as a photocatalyst to decompose methylene blue (MB) dye. It was showed that N-doped TiO2-Fe2O3/C demonstrates better photocatalytic performance than that of N-doped TiO2/C and non-N-doped TiO2/C and the MB degradation efficiency of N-doped TiO2-Fe2O3/C reaches 81%.
Non Linear Code based Public Key Encryption
Authors: Raju Pratheeksha , T Chithralekha 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Code based cryptography is an important class of post quantum cryptography that depends on the strength of hard problems in coding theory which is hard to break even using quantum computers. Code based cryptosystems generally exploit the properties of Linear Block Codes to create quantum resistant schemes for presumed quantum era. Non Linear codes are less explored than linear codes in code based cryptography because they lack a general structure, hindering their compact representation. We propose a novel method to formulate a variant of McEliece cryptosystem which enables the use of Non linear codes in Code based Post Quantum Cryptographic systems providing comparable security and maximum possible information rate for a given set of code parameters.
Characterization of pyridaben resistance in Tetranychus urticae in Israel
Authors: Rath Animesha , Regon Preetom , Kliot Adi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Tetranychus urticae, the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (TSSM) is a plant pest causing serious economic damages in various crops worldwide. The main means of controlling TSSM in the field are based on chemical pesticides. The number of reports of pesticide resistance among populations of this pest has crowned it the pest resistant to the highest number of compounds worldwide. Pyridaben is one of the pesticides used against TSSM, it works by inhibiting complex I of the mitochondrial electron transport pathway. In the study, we examined three populations of TSSM with different genetic backgrounds, all with different resistance abilities to pyridaben. We focused on the underling mechanisms of resistance as well as possible fitness costs associated with the resistance. We show that resistance to pyridaben in the three populations is metabolic, and that high resistance abilities incur high fitness costs. Our data sheds light on the current situation of TSSM resistance to pyridaben in Israel.
Non-destructive wood identification using X-ray µCT scanning: which resolution do we need?
Authors: Dierickx Sofie , Genbrugge Siska , Beeckman Hans , Hubau Wannes , Kibleur Pierre , Bulcke Jan Van den 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Taxonomic identification of wood specimens provides vital information for a wide variety of academic (e.g. paleoecology, cultural heritage studies) and commercial (e.g. wood trade) purposes. It is generally accomplished through the observation of key anatomical features. Classic methodologies mostly require destructive sub-sampling, which is not always acceptable. X-ray computed micro-tomography (µCT) is a promising non-destructive alternative since it allows a detailed non-invasive visualization of the internal wood structure. There is, however, no standardized approach that determines the required resolution for proper wood identification using X-ray µCT. Here we compared X-ray µCT scans of 17 African wood species at four resolutions (1µm, 3µm, 8µm and 15µm). The species were selected from the Xylarium of the Royal Museum for Central Africa, Belgium, and represent a wide variety of wood-anatomical features.
Results
For each resolution, we determined which standardized anatomical features can be distinguished or measured, using the anatomical descriptions and microscopic photographs on the Inside Wood Online Database as a reference. We show that small-scale features (e.g. pits and fibres) can be best distinguished at high resolution (especially 1µm voxel size). In contrast, large-scale features (e.g. vessel porosity or arrangement) can be best observed at low resolution due to a larger field of view. Intermediate resolutions are optimal (especially 3 µm voxel size), allowing recognition of most small- and large-scale features. While the potential for wood identification is thus highest at 3µm, the scans at 1µm and 8µm were successful in more than half of the studied cases, and even the 15µm resolution showed a high potential for 40% of the samples.
Conclusions
The results show the potential of X-ray µCT for non-destructive wood identification. Each of the four studied resolutions proved to contain information on the anatomical features and has the potential to lead to an identification. The dataset of 17 scanned species is made available online and serves as the first step towards a reference database of scanned wood species, facilitating and encouraging more systematic use of X-ray µCT for the identification of wood species.
Soil unsealing in Mediterranean schoolyards: what factors drive ant communities?
Authors: Eydoux Louise , Robert Pierre Jay , Kaufmann Bernard , Hedde Mickael , Vergnes Alan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Soil unsealing, the process of removing the impermeable top layer of soil, is increasingly advocated by urban planning policies. The role of unsealed areas in biodiversity conservation, particularly soil biodiversity, remains strongly understudied and especially in understanding the recolonization dynamics of soil biodiversity in these new habitats. Besides, the various types of soil cover resulting from soil unsealing could potentially influence the recolonization kinetics. This study focused on 79 unsealed plots located in 14 schoolyards along the French Mediterranean coast, investigating ant communities through the placement of 485 baits on unsealed plots. Two variables were considered: the duration since soil unsealing (1 or 2 years) and the type of soil cover (wood chips, plantations mulched with wood chips or lawns). Remarkably, these unsealed areas act as habitats for ants from their very first years of creation: a rich diversity of ants (21 species; a fifth of the regional pool and 10% of the metropolitan French species) has been observed. Additionally, notable changes in ant communities were evident within a single year: plots unsealed for 2 years exhibited significantly higher ant abundance and diversity compared to those unsealed for 1 year. However, the construction of these spaces influences the present communities, with wood chip-covered areas significantly less rich and abundant in ants compared to other ground cover types. These preliminary findings represent a promising starting point and offer enthusiastic insights into the potential of such projects for soil biodiversity conservation.
Clinical Differences Between Periprosthetic and Native Distal Femur Fractures
Authors: Kong Shana , Bautista Barry , Haffner Max , Kelley Judas , Hideshima Kelsey , Tse Shannon , Saade Aziz , Simister Samuel K. , Terle Megan , Soles Gillian , Campbell Sean T. , Fitzpatrick Ellen , Lee Mark A. , Saiz Augustine M. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Periprosthetic distal femur fractures (PDFF) are becoming more prevalent as total knee replacements become more common. This study compares the demographics, fracture characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of periprosthetic versus native distal femur fractures (NDFF).
Materials and Methods
This is a retrospective cohort study of patients ≥ 18 who underwent surgical fixation of NDFF or PDFF from 2012-2020 at a level-1 trauma center. Primary outcomes included demographics, AO/OTA fracture classification, fixation construct, and unexpected return to the operating room (UROR). Secondary outcomes were concomitant fractures, polytrauma rates, low bone density, and reduction quality. T-test, Fisher’s exact test, and multivariable analysis were used for statistical analysis.
Results
209 patients were identified, including 70 PDFF and 139 NDFF. PDFF patients were elderly females (81%) with isolated (80%) and comminuted (85%) 33A.3 (71%) fractures. NDFF patients included 53% females, were commonly middle-aged, and displayed comminuted (92%) 33C.2 fractures. 48% of NDFF patients had concomitant fractures. Intramedullary nailing was the primary fixation for both groups, followed by nail-plate combination (37%) for PDFF and lateral locking plates (21%) for NDFF. NDFF patients experienced lengthier hospital stays and higher UROR rates (p<0.05). PDFF patients had a significantly higher prevalence of low bone density (p<0.05).
Conclusion
PDFF occur as isolated injuries with significant metaphyseal comminution in elderly females with low bone quality. NDFF commonly occurs in younger patients with less metaphyseal comminution and concomitant fractures. Intramedullary nailing was the most common treatment for both groups, though preference for nail-plate combination fixation is increasing. NDFF type 33C fractures are at higher risk of UROR.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Pre-eclampsia/Eclampsia Preventive Measures among Pregnant Women in Selected Primary Health Care Facilities in Kano State: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Igbokwe Uchenna , Tsikasom Tukki , Korfii Uebari , Rajab Ashiru , Ahmad Nafisa Murtala , Abdulssalam Al-Fara'u , Umar Ibrahim Aliyu , Said Shaawa , Muhammad Daiyabu , Musa Isa , Adaramati Tobiloba , Adeloye Dunni , Amasiatu Valentine , Aigbogun Eric 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the knowledge, attitude, and practice of preeclampsia/eclampsia (PE/E) preventive measures among pregnant women in Kano.
Methods: This study applied sequential mixed-method research to understand the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of preventive measures for PE/E; as part of the discovery phase of a broader project that applies modified human-centred design model to understand the roles of both patients and healthcare providers in the prevention and management of PE/E. Data were collected using structured questionnaires through face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions. This study was limited to 16 health facilities from two (2) Local Government Areas in Kano State: Kumbotso and Ungogo, representing a diverse group of pregnant women comprising 828 participants. The quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 (IBM® Armonk, USA) Chi-square and logistic regression model. Confidence level was set at 95% and p-value <0.05 was considered significant. MAXQDA software (version 2022.8) was used for qualitative analysis.
Results: Of the 828 pregnant women who participated in the study, 281 (33.9%) had adequate knowledge of PE/E, 693 (83.6%) showed a positive attitude and 416 (50.2%) expressed good practice towards PE/E prevention. There were significant association between the women's sociodemographic characteristics and KAP (p <0.05). Location (rural/urban divide), educational level, source of income, trimester, and number of children were significant predictors of KAP of PE/E prevention (p <0.05). The common terminology used to understand PE/E was the occurrence of severe headaches, and their channel of knowledge was in hospitals through health education. The most important theme for attitude was health facility visits; the participants understood the importance of preventing the condition (preeclampsia and eclampsia). However, practice was not directly associated with PE/E prevention, but with better pregnancy outcome.
Conclusion: The findings reveal a connection between educational levels and the knowledge, attitude, and practice of pregnant women towards PE/E preventive measures. Notably, those with lower educational levels tend to exhibit poorer knowledge and attitudes concerning preventive measures. The geographical location and associated ethno-religious connotations have inherently disadvantaged striving women, leading to reduced access to quality healthcare services.
Optimization of the iron content of Eremomastrax speciosa drink and evaluation of its antianemic potential
Authors: DIBANDA Romelle FEUMBA , NTUBE Noela ETAME EKANEY , BEACK Sandrine Suzanne , TONGWA Quentin METSATEDEM , TCHUENCHIEU Alex Dimitri , MBOFUNG Carl Moses 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia is a problem of serious public health significance. The formulation of herbal drinks becomes common as people tend to combat anemia by drinks made from available plants. In Cameroon, drinks from E. speciosa leaves are consumed during the treatment of anemia. This study aims to optimize the iron extraction from E. speciosa leaves and to assess its potency againts iron deficiency anemia. The leaves of E. speciosa were dried at 50°C, grinded and sieved. E. speciosa drink was obtained after extraction of the powdered leaves using a Central Composite Design of 4 factors (temperature, time, pH and ratio solid/liquid (w/v)). Different volumes (1, 2 or 4mL/kg) of E. speciosa drink produced at the optimized condition was administrated for 2 weeks to anemic-induced rats. The Composite desirability showed that the optimum extraction conditions were at temperature 20°C, time 50 min, pH 11 and solid/liquid ratio 15g/L. A volume of 1mL/kg of E. speciosa drink was able to restore the red blood cells counts and the hemoglobin levels to normal after 2 weeks of consumption while when consuming 2 or 4 mL/kg of E. speciosa drink, anemia was alleviated in 1 week. The drink of E. speciosa produced under this optimal extraction condition is an iron-rich drink and demonstrates a potent antianemic potential.
Association between cholelithiasis and frailty index in US adults: a population-based epidemiological study
Authors: Zhu Meng , Jia Lingjuan , Tian Xiangfeng , Zhang Yongsheng 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND
To date, the association between cholelithiasis and frailty remains unexplored.
AIM
This investigation utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2017 to 2020 to explore this potential relationship. Multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses were performed to evaluate the correlation between cholelithiasis and frailty index. Additionally, we created a novel nomogram to predict the probability of cholelithiasis in individuals.
RESULTS
A total of 13,130 participants were analyzed, with 1,380 (10.25%) affected by cholelithiasis. After adjusting for confounding variables, a significant relationship was identified between cholelithiasis and frailty index (odds ratio [OR] = 1.75, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–2.66, P = 0.01). The RCS plot demonstrated a linear positive correlation (P non-linear = 0.9), indicating that the risk escalated abruptly when the frailty index surpassed 0.17. Furthermore, a comprehensive risk assessment model incorporating sex, age, race, body mass index (BMI), and frailty index was developed for diagnostic and decision-making purposes using a column-line chart model.
CONCLUSIONS
In summary, the frailty index was found to be linked with an elevated risk of cholelithiasis, with this impact varying among individuals based on their age, gender, race, and BMI.
Non-linear elasticity, earthquake triggerring and seasonal hydrological forcing along the Irpinia fault, Southern Italy
Authors: Tarantino Stefania , Poli Piero , D'Agostino Nicola , Vassallo Maurizio , Festa Gaetano , Ventafridda Gerardo , Zollo Aldo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Pump-probe experiments investigate the strain sensitivity of crustal elastic properties, showing nonlinear variations during the strain cycle. In the laboratory, pre-seismic reductions in seismic velocity indicate that asperity contacts within the fault zone begin to fail before macroscopic frictional sliding. The recognition of such effects in natural seismic-cycles has been challenging. By exploiting seasonal hydrological strains, we used a quasi-static natural pump-probe experiment to investigate the nonlinear response of crustal rocks and its role in seismic failure along the tectonically-active Irpinia Fault System (Southern Italy). By comparing 14-years-long series of spring discharge, strain, seismic velocity variations and earthquakes rate, we find that seismicity peaks during maximum hydrological forcing and minimum seismic velocity. Seasonal strains of ~10-6 are required for both earthquakes triggering and significant nonlinearity effects arising from modulus reduction. We suggest that, for faults in a critical state, cyclical softening may lead to failure and seasonal seismicity.
Evaluating the Implementation of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) Gateway for the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) Across Six Northern States in Nigeria
Authors: Igbokwe Uchenna , Ibrahim Raihanah , Aina Muyi , Umar Musa , Salihu Muhammed , Omoregie Efosa , Sadiq Firdausi Umar , Obonyo Benson , Muhammad Rilwanu , Isah Salisu Idris , Joseph Natsah , Wakil Babagana , Tijjani Faruk , Ibrahim Abubakar , Yahaya Mohammed Nura , Aigbogun Eric 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: This evaluation research utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the implementation of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) gateway of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) across six states in Northern Nigeria: Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, and Yobe.
Methods: This was a mixed-method research that utilized longitudinal surveys and Key informant interviews to gather information about the implementation status of the BHCPF-NPHCDA gateway. Checklists were developed based on the BHCPF’s national guidelines to gather quantitative data, while simple open-ended questionnaires were used to collect qualitative data from the state BHCPF Program Implementation Unit (PIU) focal persons as key informants.
Results: The result revealed that the NPHCDA had accredited these six states to use one Primary Health Care (PHC) facility in each political ward to implement the BHCPF. Factors that contributed to the success achieved in some states included the early completion of contingent start-up activities, well-established coordination structures, strong support from partners, and availability of established financial management systems. However, the delays in the submission of quarterly business plans by the BHCPF facilities affected timely approval and fund disbursement. Other challenges included staff capacity gaps, inadequate human resources, and poor management and supervision from the state health agency teams.
Conclusion: There was suboptimal implementation of the BHCPF in at least one thematic area across all states. Therefore, actions such as government commitment for improved coordination, continuous capacity building, effective monitoring and evaluation, and targeted supportive supervision using innovative approaches should be undertaken to improve the program’s implementation. In a broader setting, the insights from BHCPF implementation are valuable for LMICs, offering guidance on overcoming implementation challenges associated with PHC financing. This research provides a resource for enhancing healthcare financing strategies in similar contexts.
A Novel Control Method for Buck Converters
Authors: Chou Hsiao-Hsing , Chen Hsin-Liang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This paper presents an innovative control technique for buck converters. This control strategy is applied to the switch-inductor converter. It has the following features: (a) the dual loop control mechanism results in the high transient responses , (b) the near-constant switching frequency reduces the design effort of front-end EMI filters, (c) the adaptive on time control minimizes the over-shoot/undershoot, (d) from the viewpoint of circuit integration because the proposed circuit requires no special processes to fabricate. Therefore, it is low cost and suitable for mass production. This paper first describes the advantages and disadvantages of the various types of buck converters. Then, the operation of the proposed scheme is analyzed and explained further. The control scheme is verified by the SIMPLIS simulator and can be fabricated by UMC 0.18μm 1P6M CMOS processes in future.
Optimizing Warehouse Location and Fortification: A Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Modeling Approach
Authors: Oshan Tareq 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This study presents a mathematical model for optimizing warehouse-location decisions in supply-chain network design. Previous studies have modeled the facility-location problem and provided fortification plans and solutions. However, these studies did not consider multi-capacity warehouses.
The proposed model identifies optimal warehouse locations, sizes,
and branch-warehouse assignments, and it determines fortification measures
to mitigate the risk of warehouse failure.
The model is formulated as a mixed-integer nonlinear problem and is subsequently
linearized using standard linearization techniques combined with a proposed method based on the
average-probability approximation. A case study of a Canadian company is used to
illustrate the model's efficacy. Sensitivity analysis results demonstrate that when the
numbers of fortified and built warehouses are equal, failure probability
has no effect on the objective function of the model. Thus, this study presents a comprehensive model that can be used to assist businesses in
decision-making regarding their warehouse operations to lower their
risk of failure and optimize their use of warehouse infrastructure.