bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Green Space and Water Body Supports Bird Species Diversity Across Urban Parks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Khiruddin Fudzla Zulfa , Mansor Mohammad Saiful 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Urbanisation growth is very rapid worldwide, where more than half of the population live in urban areas. The development of infrastructures to comply with dense population in cities has threatened the biodiversity in urban areas. Bird communities are important in maintaining biodiversity as they are very sensitive to any change in the environment. However, their numbers have decreased as more of native vegetations were destroyed. Urban researchers have been focusing on the landscape matrix in urban parks as a way to conserve bird diversity in urban areas. However, studies on the area are still scarce. In this study, we aim to identify the landscape attributes that influence bird diversity in urban parks. we have recorded a total of 537 individuals from 46 species and 24 families from three urban parks (Taman Tasik Permaisuri, Taman Pudu Ulu and Taman Datuk Keramat). Five landscape attributes that could potentially affect the avian diversity in urban parks have been shortlisted. The multiple regression found that green spaces and water bodies attributes play important roles that influence avian species richness and abundance in urban parks of Kuala Lumpur. We also proved that the landscape attributes of urban park are more important that its size in increasing bird composition and diversity. Further studies can be done on more landscape attributes that can contribute to a better planning and development of functional urban parks for urban conservation.
Intense and persistent bottom trawling impairs long-term carbon storage in shelf sea sediments
Authors: Zhang Wenyan , Porz Lucas , Yilmaz Rümeysa , Wallmann Klaus , Spiegel Timo , Neumann Andreas , Holtappels Moritz , Kasten Sabine , Kuhlmann Jannis , Ziebarth Nadja , Taylor Bettina ,   Ha Ho-Hagemann1, Daewel Ute , Schrum Corinna 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Bottom trawling represents the most widespread anthropogenic physical disturbance to shelf sea sediments 1-3. While trawling-induced changes in benthic communities are widely recognized, current evidence of its impact on long-term organic carbon (OC) storage in seabed sediments remains controversial 2,4-6. To address this, we first combined independent datasets of sediment and bottom trawling intensity for the global shelf seas and for a heavily trawled region, the North Sea, respectively, to explore the relationship between OC storage and trawling. A pattern emerges when comparing the surface sediment OC-to-mud ratio (OC/mud) and the trawling intensity represented by the annual swept area ratio (SAR). OC/mud is relatively scattered where SAR < 1, but becomes increasingly confined to a narrower and lower range as SAR increases. The constraint of bottom trawling on OC/mud can be described by a power function, namely OC/mud ≤ 0.25×SAR-0.25. We then applied three-dimensional physical–biogeochemical modeling to investigate the underlying driving mechanisms. Results suggest that intense and persistent trawling (SAR > 1) results in a net reduction of sedimentary carbon in the long term. The identified dependence of OC/mud on trawling, and the associated process-based understanding could assist both national and international marine spatial planning for climate change mitigation.
Poor health-related quality of life in people living with HIV co-infected with SARS-CoV-2 in France (the COVIDHIV study)
Authors: Amboise Yvenie , Yaya Issifou , Yombo-Kokule Lisa. , Roucoux Guillaume , Ossima Arnaud Nze , Preau Marie , Griffith James W , Marcellin Fabienne , Chassany Olivier , Cheret Antoine , Duracinsky Martin 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background: Among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), comorbid conditions, including COVID-19, could favor impairment of health-related quality of life (HRQL). This study aimed to assess HRQL and its correlates among PLWHA co-infected with SARS-CoV-2 in France.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using data from PLWHA co-infected with SARS-CoV-2 collected at inclusion in the COVIDHIV cohort study. HRQL was measured using the four dimensions of PROQOL-HIV scale: Physical Health Symptom (PHS), Mental and Cognitive (MC), Social Relationship (SR), Treatment Impact (TI). Factors associated with each dimension were identified using linear regression.
Findings: Of the 371 participants included in this study, 64.7% were male, their mean age (SD) was 52(±12) years. The mean (SD) scores of the HRQL dimensions were 76.7(±21.1) for PHS, 79.2(±23.6) for SR, 67.3(±27.4) for MC and 83.9(±16.5) for TI.
Better PHS score was associated with being professionally active and good self-perceived knowledge about COVID-19. Having acquired HIV by blood transfusion, stage C of CDC HIV-classification, having received discharge instructions in hospital, and number of self-reported symptoms were associated with worse score in PHS dimension.
Living in a couple was associated with better SR score. Having received instructions at hospital discharge, being at stage C of CDC HIV-classification, having acquired HIV by drug injection, number of self-reported symptoms, and self-perceived vulnerable to COVID-19 were associated with worse score in SR dimension.
Better score in the MC dimension was associated with being professionally active, and being born in metropolitan France, while being female, having detectable HIV viral-load, having received instructions at hospital discharge, self-perceived vulnerable to COVID-19, smoking, and number of self-reported symptoms were associated with worse score in MC dimension.
Being born in metropolitan France, having acquired HIV in homosexual or bisexual relationships were associated with better score in TI dimension. Having detectable HIV viral-load, psychiatric disorders, and number of self-reported symptoms were associated with worse score in TI dimension.
Conclusion: Among PLWHIV co-infected with SARS-CoV-2, the scores of HRQL were impaired, particularly in the MC dimension. The knowledge of associated factors can help clinicians for better care of this population.
Iron Oxide Gold-bearing Ore Processing Based on Ore Characterization: Gravity Pre-concentration and Cyanide Dissolution
Authors: Roostaei Hamidreza , Kordparijaei Masoumeh , Mesroghli Shahin 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
The application of ore characterization and mineralogy holds a significant role in the development of a mineral processing route. The current investigation endeavors to evaluate the processing of iron oxide gold-bearing minerals exhibiting a gold grade of 1.07 g/ton. First, the mineralogical and microscopic characteristics of the ore sample were scrutinized. Subsequently, the recovery of gold from the ore was analyzed through gravity concentration and cyanidation techniques, following the characterization of minerals and ore using diverse methodologies. The outcomes revealed that the sample comprised free gold and oxidized structures, predominantly in the size fraction of -149 + 88 microns, and smaller within the range of 5–10 microns. Pre-concentration of gold-bearing minerals was performed via gravity separation techniques, including a shaking table and Knelson separator. The results indicated that the recovery of gold through these methods was limited, likely due to insufficient quantities of free gold present in the coarse-grained fractions. Subsequent cyanidation studies were conducted at pH 10.5, utilizing sodium cyanide concentrations of 3000 mg/l, and varying temperature, solid percentage, and size distribution parameters. The highest gold recovery rate of 95.03% was achieved in the size distribution of d80 = 53 microns, at a temperature of 80° C and a solid percentage of 25%. If a detailed technical and economic evaluation is conducted to optimize energy consumption and reduce grinding costs in the industry, it may be feasible to use the size distribution of d80 = 147 microns as the appropriate particle size for the cyanidation process, where a gold recovery rate of 90.51% was achieved at ambient temperature with a solid percentage of 30%.
Optimal control of agricultural products group-purchasing service quality based on altruistic preference
Authors: Mu Xiaoyue , Xie Rongjian 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In this paper, the dynamic game theory and the optimal control theory are combined to construct the differential game equation of the quality control of agricultural products group purchasing service, and the influence of altruistic preference and reward and punishment mechanism on the quality of agricultural products group purchasing service is studied. The numerical solution and simulation of the model are carried out by using MATLAB software, and the game relationship and evolution process of competition and cooperation among various organizational entities in the agricultural products group purchasing system are explained. The research shows that the sales price of agricultural products in the case of centralized decision-making is lower than that in the altruistic mode; the government 's increase in reward and punishment factors will stimulate the enthusiasm of the agricultural product group purchasing platform and supplier quality control level ; when the service quality standard of agricultural product group purchasing reaches a certain threshold, the government 's increase in reward and punishment factors will reduce the profits of agricultural product group purchasing platforms and suppliers ; the altruistic preference behavior of agricultural product group purchasing platform is conducive to Pareto improvement of supply chain performance under decentralized decision-making mode.
Work and Health Conditions among Nursing Workers in Brazil
Authors: Ornellas Thue , Monteiro Ines 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the working conditions, which are determining factors for the consolidation of the workforce and the productive aging of nursing professionals, and factors related to the health of nursing workers in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.
Methods: Cross-sectional study with 380 workers from the four main health institutions in the city where the study was conducted. The survey data collection coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lack of vaccines.
Results: The majority were women, and the average age was 41.3 years. The reported adverse working conditions were inadequate lighting, excess weight to handle and working on weekends or holidays. Health problems in the last 15 days, stress, having another job and fearing damage due to medical leave increased the probability of having exhaustion after the workday. Being a male, being a male nurse, reporting having equal or worse health compared to people of the same age, presenting health problems in the last 15 days and wanting to leave the current job.
Conclusion: Work and health conditions can contribute positively or negatively to improving work ability and functional aging.
Quantifying future changes of flood hazards within the Broadland catchment in the UK
Authors: Gudde Ross , He Yi , Pasquier Ulysse , Forstenhäusler Nicole , Noble Ciar , Zha Qianyu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Flooding represents the greatest natural threat to the UK, presenting severe risk to populations along coastlines and floodplains through extreme tidal surge and hydrometeorological events. Climate change is projected to significantly elevate flood risk through increased severity and frequency of occurrences, which will be exacerbated by external drivers of risk such as property development and population growth throughout floodplains. This investigation explores the entire flood hazard modelling chain, utilising the nonparametric bias correction of UKCP18 regional climate projections, the distributed HBV-TYN hydrological model and HEC-RAS hydraulic model to assess future manifestation of flood hazard within the Broadland Catchment, UK. When assessing the independent impact of extreme river discharge and storm surge events as well as the impact of a compound event of the two along a high emission scenario, exponential increases in hazard extent over time were observed. The flood extent increases from 197 km2 in 1990 to 200 km2 in 2030, and 208 km2 in 2070. In parallel, exponential population exposure increases were found from 13,917 (1990) to 14,088 (2030) to 18,785 (2070). This methodology could see integration into policy-based flood risk management by use of the developed hazard modelling tool for future planning and suitability of existing infrastructure at a catchment scale.
Mutation and Expression Analysis of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Associated Genes Spectrum in a Pakistani Male through Comprehensive Next-generation Sequencing
Authors: Naeem Maryam , Asad Laiba , Jahan Marium , Amin Humaira , Ahmed Ibrar , Masood Asim Hassan , Anees Mariam , Murtaza Iram , Sultan Aneesa 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Purpose This case study covers a Pakistani man with GIST at the gastroesophageal junction, which is rare and confirmed by CT scan and immunophenotyping (Desmin+, CD117+, SMA+) and we aimed to probe the mutational landscape through NGS techniques to elucidate the key genes mutations involved in incidence and progression of GIST.Methodology Mutational status is examined through whole exome sequencing and mRNA sequencing using tumor tissue against adjacent control tissue.Results These analyses revealed a number of deleterious mutations in genes associated with cancer, metabolism and RAS/RAF pathways. These include PDGFRA, NF1, SDHA, and others. The mRNA transcripts analysis revealed 2441 Differentially expressed genes (DEGs), among which 63 were upregulated and 137 were downregulated. These genes showed enrichment in biological processes such as cell adhesion matrix, metabolism, cellular senescence, and positive regulation of cellular component proliferation along with cancer-associated pathways such as PI3K/AKT, mTOR, and RAS. The common pathway results of the NGS analysis identified significantly deregulated genes including the upregulated GNB1 and CSFR3 while downregulated FOXD2, HES5, CDKN2C, FOXO6, TP73, RAP1GAP, RPS6KA1, PRKCZ, INNP5B. These genes showed enrichment in EMT, cell migration, and invasion by increased activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.Conclusion NGS data analysis confirmed that these genes could play a key role in driving molecular pathways for gastrointestinal stromal tumorigenesis. This study provided a wide spectrum of molecular characterization of GISTs in Pakistani man and its first time reported and could be a pilot study for driver mutations and therapeutic aspects.
Evaluating Bacterial Spore Preparation Methods for Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Malyshev Dmitry , Lee Cheng Choo , Andersson Magnus 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) can reveal the ultrastructure of bacterial spores, including morphology, surface features, shape, texture, spore damage, germination, and surface appendages. Understanding these features can provide a basis for adherence, how physical and environmental stressors affect spore viability, integrity and functionality, as well as the structure, distribution and function of surface appendages. However, the spore sample preparation method can significantly impact the SEM images' appearance, resolution, and overall quality. In this study, we compare different spore preparation methods to identify optimal approaches for preparation time, spore appearance and resolved features, including the exosporium and spore pili, for SEM imaging. We use B. paranthracis as model species and evaluate the efficacy of preparation protocols using different fixation and drying methods, as well as imaging under room- and cryogenic temperatures. By systematically assessing the required sample volume, preparation time, method complexity, and visual details of the spore surface, exosporium, and spore appendages, we aim to determine the most suitable method for preserving spore structures and surface features during SEM evaluation. The findings from this study will help establish protocols for preparing bacterial spores for SEM and facilitating accurate and reliable analysis of spores' characteristics.
Stem cells derived exosomes as biological Nano carriers for VCR sulfate for treating breast cancer stem cells
Authors: Farouk Ahmed H. , Aref Ahmed M. , Fathy Belal A. , Abdallah Ahmed N. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Due to vincristine sulfate's (VCR sulfate) toxicity and non-specific targeting, which might adversely damage healthy cells, its clinical application is restricted. In this study, we loaded VCR sulfate on exosomes generated from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to enhance its targeted distribution. Exosomes are able to deliver molecules to specific cells and tissues and have therapeutic potential. In this study we isolated exosomes from MSCs, and using probe-sonication approach loaded them with VCR sulfate. Using SRB assay, cytotoxicity of VCR sulfate-Exo was assessed in T47D breast cancer cells, and the results were contrasted with those of free VCR sulfate. Then We labelled markers (CD44+/CD24-) in the cell line to assess the targeting effectiveness of VCR sulfate-Exo using flow cytometry. Our results showed that the cytotoxicity of VCR sulfate-Exo was nearly the same as VCR sulfate. Analysis using flow cytometry revealed that VRC sulfate-Exo was more effectively targeted to MSCs than free VCR sulfate. Our study shows that loading VCR sulfate to MSCs derived exosomes can improve their targeted delivery and lessen their side effects. Additional research is required to determine the in vivo effectiveness and safety of VCR sulfate-Exo and to improve the loading and delivery strategies.
Age-related changes of trace element contents in normal human breast investigated using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Zaichick Vladimir , Dogadkin Denis , Tyurin Dmitry , Shirokova Valentina , Dogadkin Nikolay , Kolotov Vladimir 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

The etiology of breast cancer remains largely unclear, however, it is well known that the incidence of this disease increases with age. In the presented work, for the first time, the age-related changes of Al, As, B, Ba, Bi, Cd, Ce, Cr, Cu, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Nb, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sn, Sr, Ti, W, and Zn content in the mammary gland of women aged 16–60 years was investigated. For this purpose, a method based on inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was employed, which makes it possible to determine the mass fractions of these trace elements in microsamples (mass from 10 mg) of breast tissue. With the help of this method, the material obtained during the autopsy of 38 practically healthy women aged 16–60 years who died suddenly was studied. Trace element mass fractions were determined in two age groups of women: 16–40 and 41–60 years old. Using the parametric Student's t-test and the non-parametric Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney U-test to compare two age groups, as well as Pearson's correlation coefficients between age and trace elements mass fractions, it was found that the Cu, Mg, Rb, and Zn mass fractions in normal breast tissue decrease with age, while the As mass fraction increase. The phenomenon of the age-related changes of trace elements mass fractions in the normal mammary gland, discovered for the first time, requires further detailed study.
Tangent bundle of pseudo-sphere and Non-null slant ruled surfaces
Authors: Karaca Emel 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
A unique type of ruled surface called a slant ruled surface has some fixed directions in the space and Frenet vectors that form a constant angle with one another. In this study, we construct the novel approximation for this slant ruled surface, also known as a non-null slant ruled surface, which was obtained by the striction curve of the natural lift curve. The relationship between the slant ruled surfaces acquired by the striction curves of the natural lift curves and pseudo-spheres is then derived via E. Study mapping. Furthermore, the striction curves of the natural lift curves in $E^{3}_{1}$ are used to classify as $\vec{\bar{q}}-,\vec{\bar{h}}-,\vec{\bar{a}}-$ spacelike (resp., timelike) slant ruled surfaces. We also provide some additional cases that may illustrate the important results.
Characteristics of the Structural Connectivity of the Patients with Brain Injury and Chronic Health Symptoms
Authors: Kang Xiaojian , Yoon Byung C. , Adamson Maheen M. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractDiffusion properties from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) are exquisitely sensitive to white matter abnormalities incurred during traumatic brain injury (TBI), especially for those patients with chronic post-TBI symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, etc. The evaluation of structural and functional connectivity using DTI has become a promising method for identifying subtle alterations in brain connectivity associated with TBI that are otherwise not visible with conventional imaging. This study assessed whether TBI patients with or without chronic symptoms (TBIcs/TBIncs) exhibit any changes in structural connectivity (SC) and mean fractional anisotropy (mFA) of intra- and inter-hemispheric connections when compared to a control group (CG). Reductions in SC and mFA were observed for TBIcs compared to CG, but not for TBIncs. More connections were found to have mFA reductions than SC reductions. On the whole, SC is dominated by ipsilateral connections for all the groups after the comparison of contralateral and ipsilateral connections. More contra-ipsi reductions of mFA were found for TBIcs than TBIncs compared to CG. These findings suggest that TBI patients with chronic symptoms not only demonstrate decreased global and regional mFA but also reduced structural network efficiency.
Design and Development of an External Modular Pi-XTS Robot for Detecting Presence of Defects in Pipelines
Authors: James Steve , Rajasekaran Ambigai 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This paper presents an external semi-autonomous inspection robot capable of detecting surface cracks on steel pipelines. External inspection of pipeline in unstructured environment remains a challenge. A novel modular design of the robot is proposed to enable easy handling and placement of the robot on the pipeline surface. However, in order to establish a modular design a scanning mechanism is developed for the inspection approach. Furthermore, power transfer between modules and thermal studies on the pipeline is also carried out. In this paper we investigate the possibility of high manoeuvrability of modular robot in both horizontal and inclined pipelines. An ultrasonic inspection method is adopted and integrated to the scanner module for inspection of cracks on a 60mm diameter pipeline. We further validate its effectiveness by experimental verification and represented its accuracy, inspection duration on comparison with theoretical formulation.