bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Power And Cost Improvement For The Energy Management System Of Microgrid By Using Renewable Energy Resources
Authors: Fayyaz Kaynat , Raza Safdar , Hayyat Ahmad 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Given the rapid urbanization and rising energy consumption, RESs are a great choice for microgrid power. When incorporating renewable energy sources (RESs) into microgrid topologies, efficient energy management continues to be a major challenge. The best way to assure expert energy management is to optimize power generation and cost distribution among the variety of units that are readily available to perfectly match the load. The purpose of this learning is to present a study and affordable method known as the Cost-effective Multi-Verse Optimizer (CMVO). This cutting-edge strategy was created expressly to address the current complicated optimization situation. The study seeks to offer a practical and affordable response to this complexity by deploying CMVO. The fundamental idea of CMVO is the focus on fairly distributing produced electricity among the many sources inside the microgrid, which results in a significant decrease in costs. MATLAB and SIMULINK were used to perform this optimization. The findings demonstrate that the suggested strategy is successful in delivering cost reductions and supply stability.
Genome-wide identification of CaWD40 proteins reveal a novel complex (CaAN1-CaDYT1-CaWD40-91) involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis and genic male sterility in pepper (Capsicum annuum)
Authors: Tang Peng , Huang Jingcai , Wang Jin , Wang Meiqi , Huang Qing , Pan Luzhao , Liu Feng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
The WD40 domain, as one of the most abundant domains in eukaryotic genomes, is involved in diverse aspects of plant growth and development, secondary metabolic biosynthesis, and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. To date, WD40 repeat (WD40) protein has been systematically studied in several model plants, but has not been reported in the pepper genome.
Results
In this paper, 269, 237, and 257 CaWD40 genes were identified in the Zunla, CM334 and Zhangshugang genome, respectively. Then, the CaWD40 sequences from the Zunla genome were selected for subsequent analysis, including chromosomal localization, phylogenetic relationships, sequence characteristics, motif compositions, and expression profile. Moreover, the CaWD40 proteins were unevenly distributed on 12 chromosomes, contained 19 tandem duplicate gene pairs. The 269 CaWD40s could be distinguished into six branches ( A to F), and they have 17 different types of domain distribution. The CaWD40 gene family exhibited diverse expression patterns, and several genes were specifically expressed in flowers and seeds. Finally, yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and dual-luciferase assay indicated that CaWD40-91 could interact with CaAN1 and CaDYT1, which may be involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis and male sterility in pepper.
Conclusions
Overall, we have systematacially characterized phylogeny, classification, structure, expression of the CaWD40 gene family in pepper. Our findings provide a valuable foundation for further investigation on the function of WD40 genes in pepper.
Toxoplasmosis: Sperm parameters and testosterone levels in men
Authors: Matini Mohammad , Hosseini Ali , Bahmanzadeh Maryam , Foroughi-Parvar Faeze 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that infects more than a third of the world's population. This parasitic protozoan can be replaced in different parts of the female and male reproductive system. Toxoplasmosis has caused changes in the function of sperm, testes, epididymis and prostate, in experimental models. Human studies have investigated the frequency of anti-T.gondii antibodies mostly in the female population, and there is little information about the relationship between this infection and sperm factors and testosterone. This cross sectional study involved 197 male volunteers who referred to the Fertility and Infertility Research Centre of Hamadan, Hamadan, Iran, from April to December 2023. Sera and semen were collected. ELISA test was performed to detect IgG and IgM antibodies in sera. Semen analysis was carried out based on WHO guidelines. The frequency for anti-T. gondii IgG antibody was detected 48% (95 out of 197). Three percent of participants had anti-T.gondii IgM. The highest level of T. gondii IgG antibodies was observed in the age range of 36 to 40. (p < 0.001). The participants with defects in spermatozoids including abnormal morphology and non-progressive sperms had higher percentage of antibodies against T.gondii (49.1%). Testosterone on average showed normal diversity 540 ng/dl. Fifty one point five percent, 48.5%, 52% and 100% of rural, self-employed, smokers and pet-(cat) keeper participants were positive for toxoplasmosis respectively. Although no significant relationship was observed between any other factors except age and toxoplasmosis, it seems that the high frequency of anti-T.gondii IgG in this group of men who have infertility problems confirmed the parasite as not a main factor but a side factor with the production of pro-inflammatory substances as wells as cytokines which can lead to infertility and dysfunction of sperms.
The vital role of good governance in a public health crisis: the case of managing access to medicines in Iran during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hosseini Fatemehsadat , Hajimiri Seyed Hossein , Kebriaeezadeh Abbas , Takian Amirhossein 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the vital role of good governance in managing public health crises, particularly in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) that faced considerable difficulties exacerbated by pre-existing vulnerabilities in their healthcare systems. The virus spread rapidly, affecting billions of citizens worldwide and revealing the interdependence of health and economic stability.
Methods We conducted a qualitative study focusing on access to medicines to investigate the challenges faced by the healthcare system during the pandemic in Iran. Through the lenses of good governance, we conducted a virtual Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with 10 purposefully identified experts representing diverse stakeholders in January 2022. We analyzed data through a deductive approach, facilitated by MAXQDA 20 software.
Results Our analysis revealed significant challenges in various aspects of the healthcare system in Iran, including infrastructure, financing, governance, regulation, access, and quality. Two main themes emerged: "Good Governance" and "Access." We identified eight subthemes under good governance, highlighting issues such as effectiveness and efficiency, transparency, accountability, and stakeholder collaboration. Additionally, under access, we identified four subthemes defined as accessibility, affordability, acceptability, and availability.
Conclusion Our findings revealed the critical role of good governance in response to crisis and highlighted areas for improvement in Iran's healthcare system. Despite challenges, the centralized healthcare system demonstrated agility in responding to medicine shortages during the pandemic. Yet, deviations from official protocols and insufficient evidence-based decision-making remain significant concerns. Lessons learned from Iran's experiences would offer, we envisage valuable insights for strengthening healthcare systems, improving governance, and increasing healthcare access globally, emphasizing stakeholder collaboration in crisis management.
Proteomic analysis reveals the difference between young and old sperm in Sus Scrofa
Authors: Fan Shuhao , Xie Fan , Wang Qianqian , Ye Haibo , Tian Yali , Liu Yangguang , Zhang Huibin , Zheng Xianrui , Yin Zongjun , Zhang Xiaodong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: The Wannan black pig is a superior local breed in Anhui province, renowned for its exceptional meat quality and remarkable adaptability to various environmental conditions. Semen, being a crucial indicator of male sexual maturity and fertility, significantly influences the performance of breeding boars. The molecular basis for comprehending the fecundity of boars in practical production lies in understanding the disparities in sperm proteins among boars of varying ages. In this investigation, sperm from three one-year-old and three seven-year-old Wannan black pigs were individually chosen.
Results:Employing a Tandem Mass Tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics approach, a total of 4050 proteins were identified, out of which 130 proteins exhibited significant differences between the two groups. GO enrichment analysis revealed that these proteins primarily participated in energy metabolism, spermatogenesis, fertilization, and reproduction. KEGG enrichment analysis demonstrated that the differential proteins predominantly resided within the ribosome pathway. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to identify core proteins such as RPS5. Ultimately, parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) was conducted on the selected differential proteins to validate result accuracy.
Conclusions: The findings of this study establish a foundation for elucidating the molecular mechanism underlying variations in sperm protein levels among Wannan Black Pig with different age.
Impact of Ions, pH, and the Nature of Substrate on the Structure and Activity of a Robust Single-Stranded DNA Binding (SSB)-Like Protein from Phi11.
Authors: Ratre Vivek , Biswas Malabika 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The gene gp13 in bacteriophage Phi11 has been annotated as SSB protein (GenBank accession no. NC_004615.1). Single-stranded DNA intermediates are protected from nuclease degradation by SSB proteins which bind to them. The importance of SSB proteins in the DNA metabolic processes cannot be undermined. In this investigation, we have reported a systematic analysis of the structural and functional changes induced in rGp13(the gene product of gp13) by several factors, such as metal ions and buffers of varying pH. The nature and length of the substrate required for the optimum function of rGp13 has also been investigated. Our results suggest that rGp13 is a robust protein which maintains its structure and function over a wide range of pH, with pH 4 being an exception. The monovalent cations used in this study seemed to have a stabilizing effect on the protein. Interestingly, among the divalent cations studied, only Zn2+ ions were found to completely destabilise rGp13, with a complete loss of the α-helical and parallel β-sheet content of the protein. This, in turn, totally abolished the DNA binding activity of rGp13. Another interesting observation from this study was that rGP13 could also bind to double-stranded DNA molecules. In summary, SSBs bind to dsDNA, ensuring genome integrity, protecting ssDNA, and impacting transcriptional processes. These crucial functions highlight their significance in maintaining cellular stability.
Itmbieasf : Adpative Pulmonary Disease Detection by Integrating Tuned Mobilenetv2 With Bi-histogram Equalization and Adaptive Sigmoid Functions
Authors: Narayana J. Lakshmi , Thaile Manyam , Khan Mudassir , Babu J. Chinna , Kiran Ajmeera 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Pulmonary disease is a category of diseases affecting the lungs and other parts of the respiratory system. The respiratory system exchanges oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the air. Pulmonary diseases are also known for spreading. Some of them are COVID and tuberculosis, which are not identified early. Identifying those harmful diseases can initially stop the spreading of the disease in the affected areas. Previous techniques use the x-rays as the determination of the diseases, i.e., contrast stretching & equalizing the histogram. In contrast, stretching results will be based on the image pixel quality, and the subtle of the image has a huge loss. This issue is because of the borders that image intensity has in the actual image. The histogram equalization overcomes those issues. At the same time, the data has been preserved with loss of spatial data, which are not held; the requirement is local edges. However, pulmonary diseases have compound patterns, and different images of X-rays & scans are included. Considering the above issues, the proposed method has considered those challenging. For predicting the images, neural networks are the best-analyzing technique in those CNNs, which have high efficiency and performance. CNN can solve complex patterns and understand the several stages of features. The proposed methods have included three main phases, i.e., grading the pre-processing, segmentation of images, & classification approaches. Each processing stage consists of a particular technique for efficient detection. In pre-processing Bi-Histogram Equalization through Adaptive Sigmoid Function, for segmentation, a tuned U-Net is used for accurate results, and in the final classification, tuned MobileNetV2 was utilized for proper disease identification. The main issues in the medical images are low latency and real-time diagnostics. Tuning the TL model decreases the inference time, quick detections, and accurate hand-device predictions. Similarities are encountered in particular spaces by adjusting the approach and identifying different characters in the medical images. Therefore, it can illustrate the quality of the image, the stage of the patient, & which category the patient belongs to.
Probability Function among Investors using Prospect Theory
Authors: Almualim Anwar , Shafqat Ramsha 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In this study, we test an investor's market behavior using probability functions. Furthermore, by establishing a consistent mean-variance model based on compound independent axioms with a unique certainty equivalency C = u −1 (E(u(X)], we present an alternate strategy to solve cooperative investment in a dynamic manner for mean-variance utility function. As a result, an explicit formula based on the exponential utility function over the normal distribution is established to approximate the certainty equivalent for each investor corresponding to the mean-variance utility function. Furthermore, we dene how alternative decision-making theories, like prospect theory, can be applied to solve cooperative investment schemes by taking investors' preferences into account as a function of choice, and we make the assumption that weight does not always have to coincide with probability. Therefore, Prospect Theory (PT) argues that decision weights have a tendency to underweight moderate and high probabilities and overweight small ones. Furthermore, the Prospect Theory Approach can be used to make investors' perceptions of risk consistent with logical decision-making through the use of suitable modeling. Additionally, a numerical experiment using S&P100 data is displayed.
Design of MIMO 5G Antenna using Characteristic Modes and Defected Ground Structure
Authors: K Boobalan , Sabapathi T. , S. Abish V. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In 5G MIMO smartphone antennas, a novel technique combines twin CMs and DGS for good isolation and wideband operation. For lower frequencies, it uses orthogonal CMs resonating from a square-loop slot; for higher frequencies, it uses a shared radiator. As a result, external decoupling structures are no longer necessary. An artificial 8 × 8 MIMO array that fits within the back cover of the smartphone exhibits over 20 dB isolation in the 3.3–3.8 GHz region, which is necessary for effective data transmission. This strategy guarantees 5G smartphone applications operate at peak efficiency.
Germ Cell Depletion using HSV1-TK in Mouse Testes
Authors: Watanabe Toshiaki , Dollet Constance , Shindo Miyuki , Takahashi Shun , Kuramochi-Miyagawa Satomi , Eto Tomoo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Germ cell transplantation is useful for the study of male germ cells and the generation of genetically modified animals. For transplantation, germ cell-free hosts generated using anticancer drug treatment, irradiation exposure, or genetic mutation are required. In this study, we aimed to develop a new system for germ cell depletion, more in compliance with the “3R” principles. For this purpose, we generated knock-in mice expressing a subtype of the herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV-TK30), reported to not induce infertility, unlike the original HSV-TK gene. Ganciclovir injection resulted in nearly complete abrogation of spermatogenesis. Furthermore, transplanted spermatogonial stem cells were differentiated into sperm in the host testes, and they gave rise to offspring. Therefore, the mice developed in this study enable the efficient removal of germ cells for germ cell transplantation in a manner more compliant with the 3R principles.
Contribution of ruderal herbaceous vegetation to supporting services in Mediterranean urban greenspaces
Authors: Torija Miriam G. , Quintana José Ramón , Pino-Bodas Raquel , Molina José Antonio 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

In the current global context of increasing urbanization, urban greenspaces are expected to play a key role in supporting ecosystem services. Spontaneous ruderal vegetation has an important function in urban greenspaces, but more in-depth studies are needed to increase our knowledge of its contribution to providing supporting ecosystem services. We aimed to uncover the contribution to biodiversity maintenance, primary production and nutrient cycling of four selected plant communities that are widely distributed in Mediterranean urban greenspaces, namely the perennial herb communities of Malva spp., roadside vegetation with Diplotaxis virgata, annual grasslands of Hordeum murinum subsp. leporinum and perennial grasslands of Dactylis glomerata. We determined the floristic composition, species richness, species density, abundance, alpha diversity (Shannon index, Simpson index), beta diversity (Sørensen coefficient), plant species cover, cover of growth forms and cover of functional groups. Macronutrient content was analysed in the leaves and roots of six plant species corresponding to the faithful taxa of each vegetation type. We used the generalized linear model to relate vegetation type to compositional and structural features supporting ecosystem services. Our results showed that Mediterranean urban greenspaces have a high plant biodiversity. Roadside vegetation had the highest species richness and alpha diversity, with a high cover of a S-accumulator plants (Diplotaxis virgata) showing a high N content in their leaves. Annual grasslands had the highest abundance and cover of silica-accumulator plants. The greatest floristic similarity was found between roadside communities and annual grasslands. Primary production was high in perennial herbs of Malva species, which are rich in mucilage and leaf N content. Dactylis glomerata, the dominant species in perennial grasslands, showed a higher C content in leaves, so this vegetation type can be expected to make a higher contribution to C cycling. We conclude that ruderal vegetation provides a range of supporting ecosystem services according to the community type, which should be considered in the conservation and management of Mediterranean urban greenspaces.
Variations in self-reported mental health in low-income urban areas during COVID-19: Insights from South Africa
Authors: Gangaidzo Trust , Everatt David , Delport Rhena , Maposa Innocent , Goudge Jane 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Many studies have reported poor mental health coinciding with lockdowns and experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The harshest lockdowns tended to happen in cities, and yet differing urban forms are likely to have mediated their effects. South Africa, characterised by varying urban forms, had high levels of poor mental health pre-pandemic, and yet experienced one of the toughest lockdowns. We explored the differences in the prevalence of, and the factors associated with, self-reported changes in mental health, in socio-economically complex and heterogenous urban areas in South Africa, to understand how urban form may have mediated the effects of the pandemic. We specifically looked at Atteridgeville, an old formal township; Melusi, a newer, and less dense informal settlement; and Hillbrow, a long-standing and deteriorating high-rise high-density formal area in central Johannesburg. We used cross-sectional data from 1332 respondents who participated in GRT-INSPIRED’s face-to-face interviews from March to October 2021. Weighted logistic regression models were used to determine the relationships between socioeconomic and demographic variables with self-reported mental health during the pandemic. We found that being from Melusi, the informal location, as compared to being from Hillbrow, the inner-city location, was associated with increased odds of worsening mental health during the pandemic. It was also only in Melusi where receiving a government grant had a protective effect against worsening mental health. Interestingly, we also found that the factors that are associated with worsening mental health are not the inverse of the factors that improve mental health. The differences in the effects of explanatory variables by location suggest that the effects of COVID-19 on mental health may have been mediated through urban form as well as socioeconomic factors such as social networks. This study provided both the factors that can be targeted to prevent poor mental health and to sustain good mental health.
Risk of Arboviral Transmission and Insecticide Resistance Status of Aedes Mosquitoes during a Yellow Fever Outbreak in Ghana
Authors: Owusu-Akyaw Margaret , Owusu-Asenso Christopher Mfum , Abdulai Anisa , Mohammed Abdul Rahim , Sr Isaac Kwame , Boadu Emmanuel Nana , Aduhene Evans , Attah Simon Kwaku , Afrane Yaw Asare 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
In late 2021, Ghana was hit by a Yellow Fever outbreak that started in two (2) districts in the Savannah region and spread to several other Districts in (3) regions (Oti, Bono and Upper West).
Yellow fever is endemic in Ghana. However, there is currently no structured vector control programme for the yellow vector, Aedes mosquitoes in Ghana. Knowledge of Aedes bionomics and insecticide susceptibility status is important to control the vectors. This study therefore sought todetermine Aedes vector bionomics and their insecticide resistance status during a yellow fever outbreak.
Methods
The study was performed in two yellow fever outbreak sites (Wenchi, Larabanga) and two non-outbreak sites (Kpalsogu, Pagaza) in Ghana. Immature Aedes mosquitoes were sampled from water-holding containers in and around human habitations. The risk of disease transmission was determined in each site using stegomyia indices. Adult Aedes mosquitoes were sampled using Biogents Sentinel (BG) traps, Human Landing Catch (HLC), and Prokopack (PPK) aspirators. Phenotypic resistance was determined with WHO susceptibility tests using Aedes mosquitoes collected as larvae and reared into adults. Knockdown resistance (kdr) mutations were detected using allele-specific multiplex PCR.
Results
Of the 2,664 immature Aedes sampled, more than 60% were found in car tyres. Larabanga, an outbreak site, was classified as a high-risk zone for the Yellow Fever outbreak (BI: 84%, CI: 26.4%). Out of 1,507 adult Aedes mosquitoes collected, Aedes aegypti was the predominant vector species (92%). A significantly high abundance of Aedes mosquitoes was observed during the dry season (61.2%) and outdoors (60.6%) (P < 0.001). Moderate to high resistance to deltamethrin was observed in all sites (33.75% to 70%). Moderate resistance to pirimiphos-methyl (65%) was observed in Kpalsogu. Aedesmosquitoes from Larabanga were susceptible (98%) to permethrin. The F1534C kdr, V1016I kdr and V410 kdr alleles were present in all the sites with frequencies between (0.05-0.92). The outbreak sites had significantly higher allele frequencies of F1534C and V1016I respectively compared to non-outbreak sites (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
This study indicates that Aedes mosquitoes in Ghana pose a significant risk to public health, and there is a need for continuous surveillance to inform effective vector control strategies.