bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chironomus Species Dna Barcording in Monitoring the Pollution Levels of the Nyanza Gulf in Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: Misiko Monicah Florence , Bere Taurai , Andika Darius O. , Okoth Patrick , Angienda Paul Oyieng , Onyango Benson 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Chironomidae is a group of diptera insects, commonly known as “non-biting midges'' in the adult stage and “bloodworms” in the larval stage, represent a group of insects that thrive in various aquatic environment worldwide. Despite the plethora of information on Chironomidae in many parts of the world, there is a paucity of data regarding this indicator species in the polluted Kenyan Nyanza Gulf of Lake Victoria and molecular identification has not been explored. This study aimed to characterize Chironomidae species based on the mitochondrial DNA barcoding of the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1(COI) gene. Aquatic insects were collected from inshore and offshore in the Nyanza gulf, with a focus on pollution gradient. Chironomus larvae were subjected to analysis to discern divergence or convergence among conspecifics or intraspecific based on pollution gradients. The COI gene was amplified, sequenced using species-specific primers and compared to Gene Bank entries. Genetic analysis was done using MEGA version 11. Phylogenetic analyses employed Neighbor-joining and maximum parsimony algorithms with 1000 bootstrap replicates. The results revealed two known species, Chironomus transvaalensis from heavily polluted Kisumu station, and Chironomus pseudothummi from moderately polluted Kendu bay and Homabay stations, within the same biogeophysical environment. Additionally, a unique Chironomus species was identified on Ndere Island, an offshore station, presumed to be a clean site with restricted human activities. Sequences comparisons with global data indicated proximity but highlighted evolutionary significance and uniqueness. The study postulates that pollution serves as a selective pressure, driving the evolution of Chironomidae species in this particular region.
Assessment of Two SWCC Models for Predicting the Curve Fitting Parameters of Lateritic Soil – Bentonite Mixtures
Authors: Amadi A. A. , Isah D. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This study compares the capabilities of soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) models by Brooks-Corey (BC) and van Genuchten (vG) in estimating the curve fitting parameters for lateritic soil – bentonite mixtures. The SWCCs of soil treated with 0–10% bentonite and compacted with British standard light (BSL) energy at compaction states representing dry of optimum, optimum, and wet of optimum conditions were measured by sequential desorption using pressure plate extractor. The fitting parameters of the two equations were determined by a non-linear fitting program. The fitting capabilities of the models on the measured data were compared by statistical indices namely the root mean square error (RMSE), linearity (R2) and index of agreement (d). It was observed that the RMSE values ranged from 0.0035 to 0.0150 for vG model which are somewhat lower than the values for BC equation. Similarly, R2 for the vG equation (≥ 0.99) are, on average, slightly higher than those of the BC fits. However, the d values associated with the BC model which varied between 0.788 and 0.971 are higher than those of the vG (0.784–0.968). Overall, the study established that the vG model proved marginally superior in respect of goodness of fit.
IKKε-deficient macrophages impede cardiac repair after myocardial infarction by enhancing macrophage-myofibroblast transition
Authors: Ahn Youngkeun , Cho Hyang Hee , Rhee Siyeon , Cho Dong Im , Jun Ju Hee , Heo HyoJung , Cho Su Han , Kim Dohyup , Wang Mingqiang , Kang Bo Gyeong , Yoo Soo Ji , Cho Meeyoung , Lim Soo yeon , Cho Jae Yeong , Jeong In Seok , Kim Yong Sook 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The regulatory role of the inhibitor of NF-kB kinase ε (IKKε) in post-myocardial infarction (MI) inflammation remains uncertain. Using an MI mouse model, we examined the cardiac outcomes of IKKε knockout (KO) mice versus wild type. We deployed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and phosphorylated protein array techniques to profile cardiac macrophages. IKKε KO mice exhibited compromised survival, heightened inflammation, pronounced cardiac fibrosis, and reduced ejection fraction. A distinct cardiac macrophage subset in IKKε KO mice demonstrated increased fibrotic markers and decreased phosphorylated p38 (p-p38) levels, implicating an enhanced macrophage-myofibroblast transition (MMT) post-MI. While cardiac inflammation is crucial in initiating compensatory pathways, the timely resolution of inflammation was impaired in the IKKε KO group, while MMT in macrophages accelerated post-MI, leading to cardiac failure. Additionally, our study highlighted the potential of 5-azacytidine (5AZ), known for its anti-inflammatory and cardiac protective properties, in restoring p-p38 in stimulated macrophages. Administering 5AZ significantly reduced MMT in cardiac macrophages of the IKKε KO group. These findings underscore the regulation of inflammation response and macrophage transition by the IKKε-p38 axis, indicating MMT as a promising therapeutic target for ischemic heart disease.
Meteorological - Hydrological Coupling Flood Forecast and Error Propagation Characteristics Based on Radar Data Assimilation in Small- to Medium Sized River Basin：A Case Study of Zhanghe River Basin in China
Authors: Gao Yufang , cong linyi , Peng Tao , Sun Xin , Nie Tong , Hu Yigchun 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

In small- to medium-sized river basins, flood forecast accuracy and adequate lead times are especially important for the scheduling of catchment management decisions, involving flood prevention measures and disaster mitigation. For this study, the Zhanghe River basin in China was selected as the study area. A meteorological–hydrological coupled model, which linked the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to the WRF-Hydro model, was used with radar data to explore the influence of data assimilation frequency on rainfall and runoff forecasts, as well as the differences in error propagation characteristics between meteorological and hydrological models. The results were as follows: (1) Doppler radar data assimilation has the ability to improve the temporal and spatial variability of rainfall forecasts. Appropriate data assimilation show positive effect on improving the rainfall forecast. 3h assimilation intervals data assimilation may result in over-estimating under the influence of complex topography in Zhanghe River Basin. The rainfall forecast results based on 6 and 12 h assimilation intervals were more accurate than those derived from a 3 h interval, with the average cumulative rainfall errors being reduced by 44.86% and 53.26%, respectively. (2) Rainfall forecasts have a significant impact on the accuracy of subsequent runoff forecasts. The runoff results showed that the assimilation of radar data at higher frequencies does not guarantee the further improvement of the runoff simulations due to the overestimation of forecast rainfall. The average flood peak error under the 6 and 12 h assimilation intervals was 27.52% and 20.0%, respectively, less than that using the 3 h interval. Therefore, the effective information contained in the assimilation data is more important than the amount of data. (3) Error propagation between models differs with the changing assimilation frequency of the radar data and the consequent effect of the rainfall forecast. With the increase in assimilation frequency of the radar observations, the error range increases. Compared with the rainfall errors, the runoff errors show greater variability. Through quantitative analysis, it was found that there is no well-defined linear relationship between the rainfall and runoff errors. At the same time, the potential of radar data assimilation is discussed, and some suggestions for improvement are put forward.
Enhancing Bio-Based Concrete Mechanical Properties: A Novel Approach with Composite Sandwiches and Confined Cylinders
Authors: Bardouh Rafik , Homoro Omayma , Reboul Nadège , Saidi Mohammed , Amziane Sofiane 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This paper addresses the growing use of bio-based materials in Europe, thanks to their low embodied energy and carbon sequestration. Despite favorable hygrothermal and acoustic properties, the inherent challenge lies in the low mechanical properties of biobased concrete. This study presents an innovative approach to strengthen hemp concrete through natural FRCM (Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Matrix), using two distinct reinforcement techniques. Firstly, a bending reinforcement consists of applying natural FRCM as the outer skins of a composite sandwich, with hemp concrete as the core. The effect of textile layers and pre-impregnation on the FRCM mechanical properties within the composite sandwich is evaluated. Secondly, compressive reinforcement entails confining hemp concrete specimens with FRCM. The results show a significant improvement in the mechanical properties of hemp concrete, with bending and compressive reinforcement leading to increases in the mechanical strength up to 17530% and 258%, respectively. Configurations involving mineral-impregnated fabric (PM FRCM) demonstrate superior mechanical reinforcement since it allows a better interphase bond between fabric and cementitious matrix. Different failure modes are observed between reference (non-reinforced) specimens and reinforced specimens, with bending reinforced specimens exhibiting shear failure and debonding at the interface of the composite sandwich, while reference specimens fail in bending. Moreover, compressive reinforced specimens undergo crushing of hemp concrete after tensioning rupture of the fabric, while reference specimens present angular shear path in the middle of the specimens. The results underscore the promise of FRCM in mechanically reinforcing biobased concrete, opening new opportunities for their expanded use in the construction industry.
Optimization and establishment of laboratory rearing conditions for Cimex lectularius L. against variable temperature and relative humidity
Authors: Banerjee Amartya , Saha Achintya , Das Parikshit , Kakati Ajay , Saha Buddhadeb , Goyary Danswrang , Bhutia Yangchen D. , Karmakar Sanjeev , Kishor Sumit , Rahaman Saidur , Chattopadhyay Pronobesh 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Emerging infestations of bed bugs are affecting normal human lifestyles globally. To perform a scientific experiment, there is a paramount requirement for an established rearing condition. Thus, this study has been conducted to optimize and establish the rearing conditions for bud bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) based upon temperature and relative humidity. The bed bugs have been projected onto three temperatures (20 ºC, 25 ºC, and 30 ºC) and relative humidity (50%, 70%, and 90%) conditions to check their overall growth and survival rate. Adult mortality, weight loss, egg laying, percentage egg hatching, hatching initiation and completion, nymph mortality, and molting have been evaluated to optimize the best rearing conditions. The temperature at 25 ºC with 90% RH showed minimum mortality for adults (female 13.33±3.33% and male 6.67±3.33%) and nymphs (13.33±3.33%), maximum egg laying (40.33±1.86), and percentage hatching (98.23±0.58%). Moreover, at 30ºC with 90% RH, both hatching initiation and completion (5.19±0.12 days and 7.23±0.16 days) as well as molting initiation and completion (3.73±0.12 days and 7.00±0.24 days) were found to be fastest. Thus, it can be concluded that 25 °C with 90% RH is ideal for the rearing of adults, while 30 °C with 90% RH will be appropriate for their overall development.
IQOS point-of-sale marketing: a comparison between Arab and Jewish neighborhoods in Israel
Authors: Khayat Amal , Levine Hagai , Berg Carla J , Abroms Lorien C , Duan Zongshuan , Wang Yan , LoParco Cassidy R , Elbaz Daniel , Cui Yuxian , Bar-Zeev Yael 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: Philip Morris International’s (PMI) IQOS, with its heatsticks (HEETS), is the heated tobacco product with the largest global market share. IQOS and/or electronic cigarettes use rate is higher among Arabs vs. Jews in Israel. This paper aims to compare IQOS point-of-sale (POS) marketing strategies, and regulatory compliance in Arab vs. Jewish neighborhoods in Israel.
Methods: We integrated data from two separate studies including a cross-sectional survey with IQOS retailers (December 2020-April 2021) and audits of POS that sold IQOS/HEETS (April 2021-July 2021) in 5 large cities in Israel, after marketing restrictions including a POS display ban and plain packaging became effective in Israel (January 2020). The survey included 69 POS (21 Arab, 48 Jewish neighborhoods) and the audits included 129 POS (48 Arab, 81 Jewish neighborhoods). Comparisons of IQOS marketing strategies between POS in Arab and Jewish neighborhoods were conducted using Chi-Square test, Fisher’s exact test or Mann-Whitney test, as appropriate. Thematic analysis was used to analyze open-ended questions.
Results:Most marketing strategies, such as promotions to customers, were uniform across POS in Arab and Jewish neighborhoods. The most noteworthy differences were that a higher proportion of retailers from Arab neighborhoods were invited to IQOS parties (47.6% vs. 21.7%, p<0.05) and reported personal communication with a PMI representative (80.0% vs. 51.2%, p<0.05). Additionally, PMI representatives assisted POS in both Arab and Jewish neighborhoods in implementing the display ban by providing free compliant cabinets and product placement instructions, and directly interacted with customers. POS in Arab neighborhoods were more compliant with the display ban (25.5% vs. 8.8%, p<0.05), but less compliant with plain packaging (62.5% vs. 79.3%, p<0.05).
Conclusions:There were not many notable differences in IQOS marketing across POS in Arab vs. Jewish neighborhoods, but PMI utilized marketing elements of cultural significance, especially for POS in Arab neighborhoods, such as more personal communication and invitation to social events. Continuous surveillance of tobacco POS marketing and legislation compliance is needed, with a special focus on demographic/location-based differences.
Tribuli Fructus alleviates 1-methyl-4-phenyl 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced Parkinson’s disease by suppressing neuroinflammation via JNK signaling
Authors: Kim Jin Hee , Huh Eugene , Kim Jin Se , Kwon Youngji , Eo Hyeyoon , Ju In Gyoung , Choi Yujin , Yoon Hae-Jee , Son So-Ri , Jang Dae Sik , Hong Seon-Pyo , Oh Myung Sook 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons. In particular, neuroinflammation associated with phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) is likely to cause the death of dopaminergic neurons. Therefore, protecting dopaminergic neurons through anti-neuroinflammation is a promising therapeutic strategy for PD. This study investigated whether Tribuli Fructus (TF) could alleviate PD by inhibiting neuroinflammation. Mouse primary mixed glial culture cells from the mouse cortex were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce neuroinflammation, and 1 h later, TF was treated. 1-methyl-4-phenyl 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) was injected into C57BL/6J mice for 5 days, and TF was co and post-administered for 12 days. Our study showed that TF attenuated pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines in LPS-stimulated primary mixed glial cultures. In the brains of MPTP-induced PD mouse model, TF inhibited the activation of microglia and astrocytes, protected dopaminergic neurons, and increased dopamine levels. TF alleviated MPTP-induced bradykinesia, a representative behavioral disorder in PD. In addition, the results in vitro and in vivo revealed that TF regulates the phosphorylation of JNK. Collectively, our data suggest that TF may be a new therapeutic candidate for PD by regulating JNK signaling.
Association of HLA Alleles with Cephalosporin Allergy in the Taiwanese Population
Authors: Wang Chih-Chun , Shen Ching-Hui , Lin Guan-Cheng , Chen Yi-Ming , Chen I-Chieh 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: Cephalosporin antibiotics are widely used in clinical settings, but they can cause hypersensitivity reactions, which may be influenced by genetic factors such as the expression of Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules. This study aimed to investigate whether specific HLA alleles were associated with an increased risk of adverse reactions to cephalosporins among individuals in the Taiwanese population.
Methods: This retrospective case-control study analyzed data from the Taiwan Precision Medicine Initiative (TPMI) on 27,933 individuals who received cephalosporin exposure and had HLA allele genotyping information available. Using logistic regression analyses, we examined the associations between HLA genotypes, comorbidities, allergy risk, and severity.
Results: Among the study population, 278 individuals had cephalosporin allergy and 2,780 were in the control group. Our results indicated that certain HLA alleles, including B55:02 (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.18-2.61, p=0.005), C01:02 (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.05-1.77, p=0.018), and DQB106:09 (OR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.62-4.12, p<0.001), were significantly associated with an increased risk of cephalosporin allergy reactions. Additionally, the HLA-C01:02 allele genotype was significantly associated with a higher risk of severe allergy (OR=2.33, 95% CI: 1.05-5.15, p=0.04).
Conclusion: This study identified significant associations between HLA alleles and an increased risk of cephalosporin allergy, which can aid in early detection and prediction of adverse drug reactions to cephalosporins. Furthermore, our study highlights the importance of HLA typing in drug safety and expanding our knowledge of drug hypersensitivity syndromes.
First molecular and phylogenetic identification of Toxoplasma gondii in sheep liver intended for human consumption in Northern Tunisia
Authors: Amdouni Yosra , Hammami Ines , Farhat Nadia , Rekik Mourad , Gharbi Mohamed 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to estimate the molecular infection prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in sheep liver tissues destined for human consumption. A total number of 224 liver tissues were collected from slaughtered sheep in Sejnane slaughterhouse (Northwest Tunisia). PCR was used to detect T. gondii DNA in liver tissues followed by phylogenetic analysis of amplicons. The phylogenetic tree was then constructed to compare the partial sequences of the ITS1 gene with GenBank sequences.
The overall molecular prevalence of T. gondii in sheep livers was 25% (56/224). The highest molecular prevalence of T. gondii was recorded in sheep aged of less than one year old (27.3%; 52/190). Infection prevalence was significantly higher in Noire de Thibar breed (33%; 17/51) compared to other breeds (p = 0.023). There were no differences depicted according to sheep’s gender. The T. gondii sequences obtained in the present study (GenBank accession numbers: OR509829 and OR509830) were 98.40-100% homologous to T. gondii sequences published in the GenBank. These results highlight a high level of T. gondii contamination of tissues destined for human consumption. Further studies are needed to improve our knowledge on different genotypes of T. gondii that infect Tunisian sheep population.
A Fingerprint Dictionary Processing Approach in Indoor Localization System Based on Wi-Fi
Authors: Yang Junhua , Wang Yuan , Cheng Wei , Liu Yang , Lu Jingyu , Wu Jin , Qin Santuan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Indoor localization using Wi-Fi fingerprinting based on Received Signal Strength (RSS) has gained widespread attention due to its immunity to external factors and ability to penetrate obstacles. The localization process involves an offline phase for building a radio map and an online phase for matching location queries. Existing matching algorithms often prioritize enhancing online phase accuracy, overlooking the importance of offline data preprocessing, which can negatively impact overall performance. This study introduces a novel approach called Fingerprint Dictionary Preprocessing (FDP) that employs Convolutional Dictionary Learning (CDL) to process radio map data. CDL learns a set of kernels capturing site characteristics, representing RSS values from Access Points (APs) in a sparse manner. The proposed FDP system compresses data through feature learning, reducing storage and bandwidth requirements for data transmission. In the online phase, CDL is utilized for assisting matching fingerprints against the learned dictionary, accurately locating users. The contributions of the FDP system presenting a cost-effective and practical solution for indoor localization, addressing the challenges associated with large data collection and multi-dimensional data requirements, making it a promising approach for real-world applications. We conducted experiments in two real indoor environments, and the results indicated that the proposed FDP system, whether applied to the original radio map or the preprocessed fingerprint database, led to improved localization accuracy and reduced localization time.
Dual Ligand-Tuned Iron and Halogen-Contained Carboxylates-based Photocatalysis for Chloro/Fluoro-Polyhaloalkylation of Alkenes
Authors: Lan Yu , Jiang Kui , Yu Xuehan , Han Wanru , Jiang Xiaoyu , Yang Wei , Zhao Zhenyan , Wei Donghui , Li Shijun , Niu Linbin 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Herein, we demonstrate a practical dual ligand-tuned iron-based photocatalyzed decarboxylation paradigm—translating all kinds of halogen-contained carboxylates (CnXmCOO-, X: F, Cl, Br) into CnXm radical for the valuable chloro/fluoro-polyhaloalkylation of non-activated alkenes through utilizing easily available trichloroacetonitrile and selectfluor as electrophilic halogenation reagents, respectively, in which the modular assembly of the dual ligand—bipyridines and acetonitriles to in situ-generated ferric halogen-contained carboxylates to produce the effective iron and CnXmCOO--based light-harvesting species for CnXm radical release in visible light conditions is evidenced by detailed mechanistic studies. The late-stage modification, low loading amount of iron (TON: 257) and feasible gram-scale synthesis show the utility of this protocol. We thus anticipate that dual ligand-tuned iron photocatalysis may have an aptitude for activation and transformation of inert bulk chemicals.