bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ecological interactions disrupted by habitat alteration in the Neotropics
Authors: Toth Aniko , Allen Andrew , Lyons S. Kathleen , Alroy John 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Ecological interactions help determine the distribution of species across landscapes and play crucial roles in ecosystem services such as pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control1. Human disturbances, particularly habitat alteration, have the potential to modify or erase ecological interactions2,3 and so jeopardise the processes they control. While examples of interactions becoming rewired under human influence have been recorded, studies of this process for speciose assemblages at regional to continental scales are uncommon4 and obstructed by logistical difficulties2. The consequences for ecological communities and people are therefore poorly understood. Here we show that human habitat alteration is associated with a decrease in the spatial aggregation of Neotropical bat pairs and bird pairs that share similar dietary requirements. We find that groups of species pairs with similar vs. different diets have positive spatial associations on average, but pairs within dietary guilds have stronger associations than pairs with disparate diets when habitats are relatively intact. Our results suggest that species with similar resource requirements typically coexist in relatively intact natural settings. By contrast, exclusion becomes more common (though not dominant) when habitats are altered. Altered habitats thus fail to support the coexistence of diverse competitive interactions, reversing patterns observed in the wild.
Quantitative, Phytomedicinal and Ethnobotanical Study of Plants in the Far-north Region of Cameroon: Case of Yagoua Sub- Division
Authors: Nnanga Jeanne Flore , Sassou Christian Bouba , Wouokoue Junior Taffo , Todou Gilbert , Tchobsala Daniel , Moksia Froumsia 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to contribute to the valuation of medicinal plants used in the treatment of diseases affecting the populations of the district of Yagoua.
Methods
Ethnobotanical data was collected in 10 villages from June to August 2020 in Yagoua. A total of 300 informants (193 men and 107 women) were interviewed through semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews and guided field visits. All informants were local residents between the ages of 15 and 60, and key information holders were selected based on recommendations. The frequency of citation (FC) made it possible to appreciate the local phytotherapeutic importance of each species, the Degree of Fidelity (DF), identified the species most used in the treatment of a particular disease and the informant consensus factor (ICF) was used to determine the homogeneity of knowledge in the use of medicinal species.
Results
98 plant species were identified belonging to 85 genera and 47 families. The Caesalpiniaceae families dominate (9 species). 10 species have a high frequency of citation. A total of 31 diseases were recorded, 8 of which had a high frequency of occurrence. It was found that men have more knowledge about plants (64.33%); the age group 26–36 is interested in the use of plants. 150 recipes were identified, of which 78.67% were monospecific. 49.44% of the species used by the population are collected in the bush, 5 morphological types represented 68.36% of woody plants and 31.64% of herbaceous plants, sarcochores are the most represented diaspore types with 51.02%. Leaves and barks are the organs most frequently used for the preparation of recipes; decoction is the most commonly used method of preparation and the oral route is the most commonly used way of administering medicines. More than half of the species recorded have a level of fidelity equal to 100% and the informant consensus factor shows high values.
Conclusion
The study area is rich in important plant resources for which the populations must be aware and must also take into account their vulnerability by advocating reforestation, domestication and sustainable use.
Ilex paraguariensis as chimarrão, terere and mate-tea forms: a comparative study of the volatile fractions of the plant materials and their respective aqueous extracts using Headspace Solid-phase Microextraction by CG-MS
Authors: Mesquita Mariana , Bosso Fernando Henrique , Salvador Marcos José 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Popularly known as "Yerba mate", Ilex paraguariensis St Hil. (Aquifoliaceae) is a South American plant extensively used to prepare many beverages, with "chimarrão", "terere" and "mate-tea" as three of the most consumed, and the preparations methods, from the plant material process to extraction mode, determines the type of the final beverage. With many health benefits and also cultural and economic relevance, in this work the volatile compounds composition of these three main beverages were analyzed through headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) used in combination with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Through this technique, 39 main volatile compounds were identified with spectral similarity above 90%. Using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Heatmap analysis, the volatile compounds composition was profiled for all the extracts and start material, and a good homogeneity among the replicates was observed, along with similarities between extracts and their start materials, as well as a notorious distinctive clustering of the different Ilex paraguariensis products, all good indications of the capability of the entire methodology used to analyze volatile compounds profiles. Limonene and n-hexanal were found as the main volatile compounds, and their abundances seem to be affected by the extraction modes, mainly due to water temperature and plant drying process. This work successfully compared the volatile profile of "chimarrão", "terere" and "mate-tea" beverages and their start materials using HS-SPME-GC-MS techniques, with the identification of the volatile compounds as well as the impact of the preparation modes in these ones.
The Cost Reduction Effects of Ending the U.S. Crude Oil Export Ban1
Authors: Kleit Andrew N. , Foreman R. Dean 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

In reaction to the oil crisis of the mid-1970s, the U.S. government imposed a ban on crude oil exports. This ban was largely symbolic until the “shale revolution” essentially doubled U.S. production of crude oil after 2010. However, this new U.S. light crude oil production growth was not well matched with the existing capacities of domestic refineries, many of which were configured to process heavier crude oil streams. Once the crude oil export ban was lifted at the end of 2015, U.S. light crude oil could be processed by non-U.S. refineries, and in turn this better enabled U.S. refineries to optimize their operations using a diverse crude mix. Examining the attributes of “crack spreads”, which are a proxy for the amount that refiners receive to refine crude oil into finished petroleum products, we analyze the impacts of ending the ban on both light and heavy crude oil value chains. We find that the end of the export ban reduced the crack spread on light crude oil by nearly $8.00 per barrel, while also reducing the crack spread on heavy crude oil by nearly $9.00 per barrel. Together these generated average annual savings of nearly $50 billion per year between 2016 and 2021. Notably, the results are consistent with the hypothesis that ending the crude oil export ban reduced refinery costs, rather than, as several authors suggested, creating a more competitive market that lowered refining margins.
FGM Medical Education at a United Kingdom Medical School: students’ perspectives (FGMed Study)
Authors: Raju Kiran , Dixit Anushka , Ramgopal Ananya , Gorham Emily , Hallett Nutmeg , Bradbury-Jones Caroline 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
Over 200 million girls from over 30 countries worldwide have been subjected to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Globalisation has led to a rising prevalence of FGM in western countries such as the United Kingdom (UK). FGM has varied implications, including physical and mental health complications and legal consequences. It is therefore vital for medical students as future healthcare professionals to receive training on a clinical approach to FGM.
Methods
A single centre online survey was distributed amongst medical students in years 3-5 (clinical years) at a large UK medical school. Qualitative and quantitative data was collected. The aim was to assess perception of their knowledge and confidence with regard to FGM and to gauge opinions on the current FGM medical curriculum.
Results
The results demonstrate a lack of confidence despite some theoretical knowledge. For example, 43% of respondents rated themselves as having a ‘reasonable’, ‘good’, or ‘extensive’ knowledge of the risk factors for FGM, but 25% felt they were ‘not at all’ confidence in recognising these in a clinical setting. Regarding the quantity of teaching, respondents reported a mean of 1.6 hours and a heavily lecture-based current medical curriculum. Free text responses highlighted a need for more small group tutorials about FGM with a focus on developing a clinical approach.
Conclusion
The FGMed study identified gaps in the current FGM medical curriculum in terms of content and type of teaching in a UK medical school. This study has generated a list of specific suggestions such as increasing the number of clinically oriented small group teaching sessions, and increasing the number of teaching hours in clinical years. Overall, these results and recommendations may be transferable to other countries and contexts given the global significance of FGM.
Associations of Time-Weighted Individual Exposure to Ambient Particulate Matter with Carotid Atherosclerosis in Beijing, China
Authors: Han Ze , Zhao Xiaoyu , Xu Zongkai , Wang Jinqi , Jin Rui , Liu Yueruijing , Wu Zhiyuan , Zhang Jie , Li Xia , Guo Xiuhua , Tao Lixin 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
Time-location information, including time spent indoors and outdoors around residential and work places and on commuting, physical activity, infiltrated ambient pollution and traffic transportations, was less considered estimating individual exposure to ambient pollution. Studies investigating the association between individual exposure to particulate matter (PM) with aerodynamic diameter <10 μm (PM10) and <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and carotid atherosclerosis obtained inconsistent results. Moreover, combined effect of mixed pollutants on carotid atherosclerosis was not fully explored because of high collinearity. We aimed to investigate the association between long-term individual time-weighted exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 and the risk of carotid atherosclerosis, and further explore the overall effects of multiple pollutants on carotid atherosclerosis.
Methods
Daily concentration of ambient pollutants was estimated by land-use regression model at both residential and work addresses, and 1-5 years’ time-weighted individual exposure was calculated by further considering personal activity pattern and infiltrated ambient pollution. We explored the association of PM2.5and PM10 with carotid atherosclerosis and pooled the overall effect of multiple pollutants by quantile g-computation.
Results
The significant association between time-weighted exposure to PM2.5 and PM10and carotid atherosclerosis was observed. Per interquartile range increase in 2-year exposure to PM2.5 (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.322, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.219-1.434) and PM10 (HR:1.213, 95% CI: 1.116-1.319) showed the strongest association with carotid atherosclerosis, respectively. Individuals in higher quartiles of pollutants were at higher risk for carotid atherosclerosis. The linear and nonlinear relationships interpreted the upward trend of the risk for carotid atherosclerosis with increasing level of pollutant concentrations. Moreover, the overall adverse effects of multiple pollutants were further demonstrated.
Conclusions
Individual time-weighted exposure to PM2.5, PM10 and mixed pollutants was associated with carotid atherosclerosis. It is necessary to reduce individual pollutant exposure to inhibit the risk of carotid atherosclerosis and subsequently alleviate disease burdens of atherosclerotic diseases.
Formal design methodology for transforming ladder diagram to Petri nets: Scope of the LDPN.
Authors: Quezada José Carlos , Flores Ernesto , Baños Esperanza , Quezada Víctor 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Control algorithms for programmable logic controllers are still developed based on the experience of those responsible for control in the industry. The IEC-61131-3 standard considers five programming languages: Ladder Diagram, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram, Instruction List, and Sequential Function Diagram, which use different function blocks to develop control algorithms. Within the control algorithms for discrete event systems there are two types of blocks: those with discrete inputs and outputs, and those with discrete and analog inputs and discrete output. Of the latter, the present research shows the analysis and formal model of the blocks including the problems of accumulation of tokens and the restoration of the coils. Expanding the scope of the Ladder Discrete Petri Net proposal and therefore the analysis and simulation of control algorithms with a greater degree of complexity.
Genetic structure of the dominant tropical seagrasses Cymodocea rotundata and Enhalus acoroides in southern Philippines for conservation management
Authors: Arriesgado Dan , Arriesgado Elgen Moywela , Kurokochi Hiroyuki , Eballe Rustan Cornelio , Gonzales Ruby Castrence , Lian Chunlan 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Large-scale genetic population study of the two dominant tropical species of seagrass is conducted in Mindanao, southern Philippines. The goal of the study was to understand population genetic status of the dominant tropical seagrass species, Cymodocea rotundata and Enhalus acoroides for appropriate management. Population genetics structure for the 15 sites was performed by using polymorphic microsatellite markers. The results showed that the clonal richness was high in E. acoroides than C. rotundata. The largest genet found in the study was at Rizal, northern Mindanao wherein throughout the sampling area (i.e. 300 x 40 m) only one genet was identified for C. rotundata. The mean FIS (coefficient of local inbreeding) values was positive (heterozygous deficit) with some sites deviated from Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium. Isolation by distance (IBD) was detected in C. rotundata (P < 0.05) but not in E. acoroides (P = 0.253), with the Mindanao ocean currents influenced genetic connectivity and structure. Genetic differentiation did not show any relationship between the geographical location and distance exhibiting high FST values for E. acoroides (0.183) and C. rotundata (0.205). The floating, buoyant fruits of E. acoroides may play a role in their long-distance dispersal; however, such dispersal is not frequent. Almost all of the seeds and fruits of C. rotundata are derived from self-recruitment in the natal meadow. This study suggests that C. rotundata and E. acoroides populations possess a weak genetic connectivity, and that the persistence of the meadow is threatened due to the low genetic diversity and high degree of population isolation.
Possible frequent multiple mitochondrial DNA copies in a single nucleoid
Authors: Pavluch Vojtěch , Špaček Tomáš , Engstová Hana , Dlasková Andrea , Jezek Petr 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background
Previously, ~ 1.4 of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) molecules in a single nucleoid was reported. Such a minimum number would reflect a minimum nucloid division.
Results
We applied 3D-double-color direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM), i.e. nanoscopy with ~ 25 nm x,y-resolution, together with our novel method of Delaunay tessellation for the identification of unbiased 3D-overlaps. Noncoding D-loops were recognized in HeLa cells by mtDNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (mtFISH) 7S-DNA 250-bp probe, containing biotin, visualized by anti-biotin/Cy3B-conjugated antibodies. Other mtFISH probes with biotin or Alexa Fluor 647 (A647) against ATP6-COX3 gene overlaps (1,100 bp) were also used. Nucleoids were imaged by anti-DNA/(A647-)-Cy3B-conjugated antibodies. Resulting histograms counting mtFISH-loci/nucleoid overlaps demonstrated that 45–70% of visualized nucleoids contained two or more D-loops or ATP6-COX3-loci, indicating two or more mtDNA molecules per nucleoid. With increasing number of mtDNA per nucleoid, diameters were larger and their distribution histograms peaked at ~ 300 nm. A wide nucleoid diameter distribution was obtained also using 2D-STED for their imaging by anti-DNA/A647. At unchanged mtDNA copy number in osteosarcoma 143B cells, TFAM expression increased nucleoid spatial density 1.67-fold, indicating expansion of existing mtDNA and its redistribution into more nucleoids upon the higher TFAM/mtDNA stoichiometry. Validation of nucleoid imaging was also done with two TFAM mutants unable to bend or dimerize, respectively, which reduced both copy number and nucleoid spatial density by 20%.
Conclusions
We conclude that frequently more than one mtDNA molecule exists within a single nucleoid and that mitochondrial nucleoids do exist in a non-uniform size range.
Fabrication of graphene and graphene derivatives based thermoplastic nanocomposite films for high barrier antibacterial packaging, EMI shielding and thermal management applications
Authors: Ghosh Suman Kumar , Nath Krishnendu , Ganguly Soumya Sarathi , Das Tushar Kanti , Paul Sangit , Ghosh Trisita , Das Amit Kumar , Das Narayan Ch. 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Multifunctional polymer/graphene nanocomposite based lightweight and flexible films are increasingly being utilized in the packaging, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries together. Herein, three different types of graphene derivatives have been incorporated into linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) thermoplastic matrix via melt compounding method. As an anisotropic filler that is extensively employed, graphene possesses the ability to not only impose electrical conductivity, but also increase their barrier properties and reinforcement to a larger extent. The microscopic analyses showed that, because of polarity, graphene nanoplatelets are the most significant and accepted filler for homogeneous mixing in the LLDPE matrix. But in order to fabricate a versatile sub-millimeter packaging film, noble metal has been deposited onto the graphene sheets (G-Ag) via wet chemical synthesis method followed by melt mixing with LLDPE matrix. This modification affected the electrical conductivity, barrier properties (both oxygen and water vapor permeability), and UV-transmittance. With 5 wt% of G-Ag, reduced graphene oxide (RGO), and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) loading, the thermal conductivity of these three nanocomposite films was enhanced by an average of 82%, 77%, and 96%, respectively. Moreover, the film has been tested against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria to ensure its bactericidal activity. The prepared graphene derivatives reinforced thin films were also showing EMI shielding values (-21 dB, -17 dB, and -19 dB) more than the commercial cut-offs. Therefore, it is possible to deduce graphene-based thermoplastic nanocomposite, which might be an excellent choice for bacteria-resistant and barrier-capable packaging and efficient thermal management EMI shields in wearable and flexible electronics.
Spatio-temporal trend of malaria incidence from 2011 to 2017 and environmental predictors of malaria transmission in Myanmar
Authors: Zhao Yan , Aung Pyae Linn , Ruan Shishao , Win Kyawt Mon , Wu Zifang , Soe Than Naing , Soe Myat Thu , Cao Yaming , Sattabongkot Jetsumon , Kyaw Myat Phone , Cui Liwang , Menezes Lynette , Parker Daniel M. 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background: Myanmar bears the heaviest malaria burden in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). This study assessed the spatio-temporal dynamics and environmental predictors ofPlasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax malaria in Myanmar.
Methods: Monthly reports of malaria cases at primary health centers during 2011–2017 were analyzed to describe malaria distribution across Myanmar at the township and state/region levels by spatial autocorrelation (Moran index) and spatio-temporal clustering. Negative binomial generalized additive models identified environmental predictors for falciparum and vivax malaria, respectively.
Results: From 2011 to 2017, there was an apparent reduction in malaria incidence in Myanmar. Malaria incidence peaked in June each year. There were significant spatial autocorrelation and clustering with extreme spatial heterogeneity in malaria cases and test positivity across the nation. Areas with higher malaria incidence were concentrated along international borders. Primary clusters of P. falciparum persisted in western townships, while clusters of P. vivaxshifted geographically over the study period. The primary cluster was detected from January 2011 to December 2013 and covered two states (Sagaing and Kachin). Annual malaria incidence was highest in townships with a mean elevation of 500-600 meters and a high variance in elevation (states with both high and low elevation). There was an apparent linear relationship between the mean normalized difference vegetative index and annual P. falciparum incidence.
Conclusion: The decreasing trends reflect the significant achievement of malaria control efforts in Myanmar. Prioritizing the allocation of resources to high-risk areas identified in this study can achieve effective disease control.
Identification of hub genes and potential molecular mechanisms in medulloblastoma by integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yuan Zhengbo , Su Wenjing , Li Chenglong , Li Zefu 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background: Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most prevalent malignant brain cancer in children. Alterations in genes are critical in the molecular pathogenesis of medulloblastoma. Herein, we propose to explore the potential biomarkers for medulloblastoma and further elucidate their possible molecular mechanism.
Methods: Medulloblastoma data sets were abstracted from the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) data resource and merged with DEGs (differentially expressed genes) from individual microarrays. Then, GO (Gene Ontology) along with KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway analyses were employed to analyze the data set.
Results: We selected 3 GEO data sets of 15 normal cerebellum tissues and 66 medulloblastoma tissues. Overall, 47 DEGs were identified. Of these, 26 were upregulated, whereas 21 were downregulated DEGs. Based on the GO analysis, the primary biological focus of DEGs consisted of “Positive regulation of neuron “differentiation,” “Intracellular,” as well as “Calcium ion binding.” The most remarkable cascade based on the KEGG analysis was the “P53 signaling cascade”. The PPI network demonstrated DTL, MELK, CDK1, KIF11, NDC80, PBK, NUSAP1, TOP2A, TTK, and RRM2 as the most remarkable hub genes.
Conclusion:
Identification of the most remarkable hub genes and significant cascades in medulloblastoma provides critical information on the pathogenesis of medulloblastoma. In addition, this information can be used to identify diagnostic biomarkers.