bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strata Control by Roof Blasting for Bord and Pillar Mining Method for Mechanised Depillaring Panel
Authors: Gautam Abhishek , Kumar Ashok , Ram Sahendra , Skrzypkowski Krzysztof , Zagórski Krzysztof , Zagórska Anna , Migda Krzysztof , Madziarz Maciej
Published: November 2024

This article discusses the continuous miner technology used in bord and pillar mining technology with the proposal of strata control by roof blasting. The main objective of the roof blasting in the goaf is to initiate induced caving to minimise abutment load in and around the working face to prevent incidences of coal bump, goaf swelling, pillar spalling and air-blast. It was stated that decision of roof blasting is subjected to the nature of local roof falls, results of strata monitoring study and hanging span of roof strata near the line of extraction. Special attention was paid to empirical and numerical simulation techniques for different geotechnical elements and structures involved during mechanised depillaring panel of Tawa-I mine. It was found that thanks to numerical simulation related to the determination of gallery width, cut-out distance and rib/snook as well as simulation for estimation of rock load height at different places in the panel as well as by applying strata control by roof blasting continuous miner technology can be successful used with improved efficiency and safety in difficult and complex geomining conditions of Indian underground coal mines.
The Influence of Anthropometric Characteristics on Punch Impact
Authors: Pinto Manuel , Crisóstomo João , Silva Gil , Monteiro Luís
Published: November 2024

Objective: This review examined the influence of anthropometric characteristics, such as height and body mass, on the impact of punches in striking combat sports. Despite their perceived importance for combat strategy, the relationship between these characteristics and punch impact remains unclear.Methods: We included Experimental, Quasi-experimental and Cross-sectional studies. The search was conducted on August 30, 2024, in three databases. The review analyzed 23 studies involving 381 participants (304 men, 30 women, 47 unknown gender). Various instruments were used in the included studies, including 10 instruments to measure impact force and 2 instruments to measure impact power. Results: Impact force ranged from 989 ± 116.76 to 5008.6 ± 76.3 N, with rear hand straight punches and rear hand hooks producing the greatest force. The PowerKube revealed that the rear hand straight punch generated the highest power, ranging from 15183.27 ± 4368.90 to 22014 ± 1336 W. While heavier weight categories were associated with stronger punches, body mass alone was not the only predictor. Other factors, such as technique, gender, and sport type, also played roles. The relationship between height and punch impact showed mixed results.Conclusion: The data suggest that while higher weight categories are associated with greater punch impact, body mass is not the only determining factor. The relationship between height and impact also showed mixed results, with no clear association. The review highlights the lack of a gold standard instrument for evaluating punch impact.
CRP-RAG: A Retrieval-Augmented Generation Framework for Supporting Complex Logical Reasoning and Knowledge Planning
Authors: Xu Kehan , Zhang Kun , Li Jingyuan , Huang Wei , Wang Yuanzhuo
Published: November 2024

The Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) Framework enhances Large Language Models (LLMs) by retrieving relevant knowledge to broaden their knowledge boundaries and mitigate factual hallucinations stemming from knowledge gaps. However, the RAG Framework faces challenges in effective knowledge retrieval and utilization; invalid or misused knowledge will interfere with LLM generation, reducing reasoning efficiency and answer quality. Existing RAG methods address these issues by decomposing and expanding queries, introducing special knowledge structures, and using reasoning process evaluation and feedback. However, the linear reasoning structures limit complex thought transformations and reasoning based on intricate queries. Additionally, knowledge retrieval and utilization are decoupled from reasoning and answer generation, hindering effective knowledge support during answer generation. To address these limitations, we propose the CRP-RAG framework, which employs reasoning graphs to model complex query reasoning processes more comprehensively and accurately. CRP-RAG guides knowledge retrieval, aggregation, and evaluation through reasoning graphs, dynamically adjusting the reasoning path based on evaluation results and selecting knowledge-sufficiency paths for answer generation. Experimental results show that CRP-RAG significantly outperforms state-of-the-art LLMs and RAG baselines in three reasoning and question answering tasks, demonstrating superior factual consistency and robustness compared to existing RAG methods.
Breed-associated Differences in Differential Gene Expression Following Immunotherapy-Based Treatment of Canine High-Grade Glioma
Authors: Arnold Susan A , Low Walter C , Pluhar G. Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

Canine high-grade glioma (HGG) is among the deadliest and most treatment-resistant forms of canine cancer. Successful, widespread treatment is challenged by heterogeneity in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment and tumor evolution following treatment. Immunotherapy is theoretically a strong novel therapy, since HGG-generated immunosuppression is a substantial malignancy mechanism. Immunotherapy has improved survival times overall, but has been associated with extremely poor outcomes in French bulldogs. Given this breed-specific observation, we hypothesized that within the French bulldog breed, there are key transcriptomic differences when compared to other breeds, and that their tumors change differently in response to immunotherapy. Using bulk RNA sequencing, French bulldog tumors were confirmed to differ substantially from boxer and Boston terrier tumors, with only 15.9% overlap in significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs). In upregulated DEGs, the magnitude of changes in expression post-treatment compared to pre-treatment was markedly greater in French bulldogs. Gene set enrichment analysis confirmed that following treatment, French bulldog tumors showed enrichment of key immune-associated pathways previously correlated with poor prognosis. Overall, this study confirmed that French bulldog HGG transcriptomes differ from boxer and Boston terrier transcriptomes, further refining description of the canine glioma transcriptome and providing important information to guide novel therapy development.
Differential Diagnosis and Rapid Clinical Resolution of a Neurological Case of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) Using GS441528
Authors: Huynh Huong (Amy) , Moraguez Pamela , Watkins Logan M , Wood Jonathan H. , Olarte-Castillo Ximena A , Whittaker Gary R.
Published: November 2024

A 2-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented with a progressive history of tetraparesis, ataxia, and inappetence over 4 days. A physical exam revealed mucopurulent nasal discharge and stertor. Neurologic exam revealed a multifocal neurolocalization. The cat was non-ambulatory tetraparetic and developed seizures while in-hospital. Hematologic assessment revealed anemia, hypoalbuminemia and hyperglobulinemia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed multifocal meningeal contrast enhancement in the brainstem and cervical spine, as well as mandibular and retropharyngeal lymphadenopathy. Cerebrospinal fluid revealed marked neutrophilic pleocytosis, no infectious organisms were seen. Toxoplasma IgG/IgM and cryptococcus antigen latex agglutination were negative. Mandibular and abdominal lymph nodes were aspirated, and cytology revealed mixed inflammation. Nanopore sequencing specifically identified FCoV-1 RNA in spinal fluid and anal swab, but not in urine. This method serves as a novel and rapid PCR sequencing technique for the antemortem diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis. The cat was treated with anticonvulsants (phenobarbital and levetiracetam), an antibiotic (ampicillin/clavulanic acid), and GS-441524. Neurologic signs did not improve on an antibiotic alone but improved significantly after two subcutaneous injections of GS-441524. The cat received an 84-day course of GS-441524 and, at the time of manuscript preparation (over 12 months after diagnosis), remained ambulatory and seizure-free without recurrence of neurologic signs and no detectable viral shedding in feces.
Suicidal Ideation and Behaviour in the Frame of COVID-19 Pandemic: The Experience of Five Emergency Departments in Lombardy
Authors: Gesi Camilla , Cafaro Rita , Cerioli Matteo , Besana Filippo , Civardi Serena Chiara , Grasso Federico , Dragogna Filippo , Politi Pierluigi , Cerveri Giancarlo , Migliarese Giovanni , Dell'Osso Bernardo Maria
Published: November 2024

Suicide is a global phenomenon, with more than 700,000 people worldwide taking their own life yearly. Both natural and human-made disaster may have a detrimental effect on suicidal behaviors both in the short-term and in the long-term. Many studies focused on the acute impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on suicidality. The aim of the study was to analyze demographic and clinical features of subjects accessing the emergency rooms for suicidality during the second epidemic wave of COVID-19 in five emergency departments in Lombardy (Italy). A retrospective chart review was conducted in the five emergency departments for the period 4 June – 31 December 2020, and during the same time lapse in 2019. For all subjects accessing for suicidality, socio-demographic and clinical data were collected and compared between the two years. No differences between the two years were found for sex, triage priority level, history of substance abuse, factor triggering suicidality and discharge diagnosis. During 2020 a greater proportion of subjects did not show any previous mental disorder, however, more subjects were already taking anxiolytic medications before the admission. Among a range of possible risk factors, attempted suicide, depression diagnosis and taking medications before the admission were found to be predictor of admission to psychiatric inpatient units. Characterizing subjects prone to suicidality during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, our study provides hints for mid-term causes of suicidality and possible preventive measures that could be helpful in the course and after massive infectious outbreaks.
Technological Innovations and Renewable Integration in Smart Cities: Enhancing Sustainability, Governance, and Security
Authors: R MITHUN , S Dr. Roopadarshini
Published: November 2024

The research focuses on the multiple ways in which technological innovation in the management, governance, and security of renewable energies contributes to making smart cities capable of integrating renewable energy systems that lead to more sustainable, efficient governance, and security resilience for the cities. A literature review of Scopus has been done with the aim of asserting at the juncture of smart cities, technological innovation, and renewable energy integration. Co-occurring and co-authorship analyses have been performed by VOSviewer for mapping the key research themes, collaborative networks, and research gaps. Core research themes include smart cities, IoT, renewable sources of energy, urban planning, AI, big data - lots of them, actually. Key areas for concern comprise cybersecurity, social equity, human-centered design, and adaptation to climate change. International collaborations identified through co-authorship analysis mirrored strong contributions from Pandolfi Alessandra and Galiulo Valentina. There are major knowledge gaps with respect to addressing, for example, how combining the elements of energy efficiency and cybersecurity under one umbrella could be defined as a smart city. Contribute uniquely in this area, and analyze the effects that the aggregate technological innovations and integration of renewable energy have on enhancing urban sustainability, governance, and security. These advances indicate ways in which urban systems can be optimized in order to enhance quality of life and lend to more sustainable and resilient urban environments. This study synthesizes interdisciplinary research in a novel manner in pointing out new areas that smart city development has barely touched upon.
Radiocarbon Ages of a Possible Titian’s Painting
Authors: Tuniz Claudio , Marzaioli Fabio , Terrasi Filippo , Molaro Paolo , Passariello Isabella , Porzio Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

A radiocarbon study of a painting that might have been made by Titian or Tintoretto or by their workshops is presented. It could be the lost Titian self-portrait or, more convincingly, the sitter might be the Venetian Andrea Cappello, elected Procuratore de Supra in 1537 AD. The calibrated 14C ages of the painted canvas are 1450-1530 and 1540-1635 AD (2 σ), those of the wooden frame are 1504-1597 and 1616-1657 AD (2 σ). They are also consistent with previous analyses based on scanning macro X-ray fluorescence. These results favor chronology for the painting as having been made in the first half of the 16th century by Titian or his workshop. Indirect evidence suggests that the painting was executed between 1523 and 1528.
Effect the seaweed Sargassum filipendula and Ascophyllum nodosum on the resistance of the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei to hypothermal shock
Authors: Pontinha Vitor de Almeida , Schleder Delano Dias , Seiffert Walter Quadros , Simioni Carmen , Vieira Felipe do Nascimento , Hayashi Leila
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the resistance of Pacific white shrimp (L. vannamei) to hypothermal shock when treated with extracts from the brown seaweeds Sargassum filipendula and Ascophyllum nodosum, either by immersion for postlarvae or as a dietary supplement for juveniles. Post-larvae were exposed to seaweed extracts at concentrations of 20, 50, 100, and 200 mg*L⁻¹, while juveniles were fed diets with 0.5%, 2.0%, and 4.0% seaweed extracts for 10 days. For juveniles (~12 g), hemato-immunological and microbiological analyses were conducted after feeding with 5% seaweed diets for 15 days, all followed by hypothermal shock. Samples were collected prior to the start of thermal shock, immediately after shock (0 h), and 1 and 24 h after return to initial temperature. The aqueous extract of the seaweeds A. nodosum and S. filipendula at concentrations 100 mg*L⁻¹ and 200 mg*L⁻¹, respectively, improves the survival rates of post-larvae L. vannamei submitted to hypothermal stress. For juvenile shrimps, hypothermal shock causes significant immunodepression and reduces the bacterial community in the intestine. The addition of seaweed to the feed did not increase the survival rate and did not affect the intestinal microbiota of L. vannamei. In the case of immunological parameters, both species positively affect the agglutination titer, but no other parameters analyzed.
Treatment of Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury in a 9-Year-Old Acrobatic Dancer Using Platelet-Rich Plasma
Authors: Haile Henok , Whitney Kristin , Bauer Andrea
Published: November 2024

Case:

We present the case of a 9-year-old female acrobatic dancer who sustained left elbow dislocation during a routine. Advanced imaging revealed proximal ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear. A significant limitation in elbow range of motion (ROM) after initial treatment with an elbow brace and physical therapy prompted a dynamic bedside ultrasound (US) test, which demonstrated persistent instability of the UCL. US-guided injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to the UCL was performed. After PRP treatment, the patient regained complete elbow ROM and a full return to her activity.

Conclusion:

Platelet-rich plasma can be used as a nonoperative treatment of pediatric elbow UCL injuries.
Double Popliteus Sign in Multiligament Knee Injury
Authors: Whicker Emily , Afetse Eddie K. , Abouhaif Taylor M. , Knezic Noah , Hackett Thomas R.
Published: November 2024

Case:

We report 2 rare cases of lateral bucket-handle meniscus tears that had displaced into the popliteal space within the context of multiligament knee injuries. In combination with a lateral meniscal root repair, an arthroscopic inside-out repair and an all-inside repair were successfully performed.

Conclusion:

When a double popliteus sign appears on magnetic resonance imaging, the surgeon should anticipate using advanced and unconventional techniques to reduce the meniscus into the joint. In addition, readiness for a meniscal root repair is crucial.
The nexus between child streetism and delinquency in Nigeria: Implications for sustainable development
Authors: Taiwo Amos Oluwole
Published: November 2024

Child streetism and delinquency present significant social challenges in Nigeria, where children engaged in street life are often exposed to criminal activities and adverse socio-economic conditions. This study explores the relationship between child streetism and delinquency, and their implications for sustainable development. Utilizing a systematic review methodology, the study critically analyses 61 key sources published between 1969 and 2023, including peer-reviewed journal articles, reports from international organizations, and empirical studies, to explore the definitions, contexts, and empirical evidence related to street children and their behaviors, risks, and socio-environmental impacts in Nigeria. It reveals a significant relationship between child streetism and delinquency, highlighting that children engaged in street work often participate in various negative behaviors such as drug trafficking, thuggery, sexual assault, and cultism. These issues severely impact their psychological and moral development, contributing to broader societal challenges and undermining sustainable development efforts. The paper identifies persistent socio-economic and cultural factors within the family and society as key drivers of child streetism and delinquency behavior in Nigeria, with current government initiatives failing to address these root causes effectively. The study concludes by suggesting a collaborative, multistakeholder approach to effectively address the complex issues surrounding street children and delinquency in Nigeria.
Laughing at religious radicalism: How memes promote interfaith, multiculturalism and nationalism
Authors: Dewi Ambar Sari , Sujibto B. J.
Published: November 2024

Memes have become an important medium for expressing multiple intentions on the internet. Social media has advanced increasingly, making memes a contestation zone, an active hook for delivering information, and an expression of counterradicalism. Memes are a very effective way to take a jab at radicalism in a laid-back or even humorous manner so the public can refreshingly capture the messages. As a part of the digital way, the counterradical group also benefits from the same medium and feature. This research aims to investigate the data on the field on how the memes spreading on social media fight against radicalism in their ways. Therefore, the antiradicalism movement through memes is conducted to look for the patterns, forms, and meanings, especially on X and Instagram accounts of NU Garis Lucu (NUGL) and Muhammadiyah Garis Lucu (MuGL). Using a qualitative approach with the content analysis method, the memes posted in the two accounts were collected between August and December 2022. We found that NUGL and MuGL are actively plotting the antiradicalism movement by criticizing radicalism and fighting against religious indoctrination. Apart from that, for those two accounts, memes function as a medium to raise awareness on multiculturalism and nurture nationalism.
Formalization of the problem of search with the unknown site of the subject on district
Authors: Zhuk A. A. , Buloichyk V. M.
Published: November 2024

Article material is devoted a question of acceptance of the administrative decision on the organisation of search of some subject, capable to apply destructive actions in relation to object of special attention. Characteristic line of a similar problem is necessity of decision-making on management of the divisions appointed for search in the conditions of absence of the authentic initial information on a site of the subject, the limited available forces and sharp deficiency of time.
The influence of dust on the image of solar panel and its operation in Libya
Authors: Albagoush A. A. , Abuauba A. B. , Kupriyanov A. B.
Published: November 2024

The Libyan state, which created the strategic plan for renewable energy 2013–2030, which strives to encourage initiatives aimed at achieving sustainability, is one of the developing nations vying to gain from solar energy in the sector of electrical energy. The agreement to build a 500-MW solar power project made this plan quite evident. The primary barrier to the best possible use of solar energy is pollution, specifically the buildup of dust and bird droppings on solar panels. The efficiency of power generation from solar panels is significantly affected by dust accumulated on them. As a result of the research, quantitative indicators of the impact of dust on photovoltaic systems in Libya were determined and images of the solar panel were obtained with different densities of dust on its surface. The field experiments show that with the increase in dust density, the short-circuit current, open-circuit voltage, and output power of the PV both decrease. The dust with a density of 40 g/m2 can reduce the maximum power of the PV more than on 20 %. The resulting images of the solar panel can be used to assess the degree of dust in automated systems for solar panels cleaning.
Application of fuzzy controllers in the autopilot of an unmanned aerial vehicle
Authors: Gu Penghao , Lobaty A. A.
Published: November 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the features of the application of regulators built on the use of theoretical provisions of fuzzy logic, when creating autopilots of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The substantiation of the principles and methods of synthesizing a mathematical model of an autopilot as applied to a multi-rotor UAV, the features of the application of various mathematical models of regulators, their advantages and disadvantages is carried out. A reasonable conclusion is made that the use of traditional approaches based on the use of linear mathematical models of the control object does not ensure the required quality of control in a wide range of UAV application conditions in the presence of restrictions and external influences on the control process. It is proposed to use the principles and methods of fuzzy mathematics, which underlie the increasingly widespread fuzzy logic controllers (FL controllers), when constructing a mathematical model of a UAV autopilot. The construction of a UAV control channel based on the use of a fuzzy logic controller is considered, and a description of the controller structure implemented in the SiminTech computer environment is given. Using mathematical modeling, a comparison was made of the performance and transient characteristics of the NL controller with the PID controller and the P controller as applied to the control system of one of the UAV channels – the roll control channel. It has been established that fuzzy logic controllers used as elements of UAV autopilots, compared to other controllers, provide the necessary quality of transient processes in the UAV control system with resistance to undesirable external influences, which makes these controllers promising for use in nonlinear non-stationary control systems for moving objects, which include UAVs.
WITHDRAWN: Characterized raw Leucaena leucocephala pod (LLP) as biosorbent produced high adsorption of Pb(II) ions in a synthetic aqueous solution
Authors: Razak Noor Harliza Abd , Idris Juferi , Musa Mohibah , Jaapar Jepri , Puasa Siti Wahidah , Mukhelas Nazmi
Published: November 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors while they make corrections to the work. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
The role of GABA in semantic memory and its neuroplasticity
Authors: Jung JeYoung , Williams Stephen , Ralph Matthew Lambon
Published: November 2024

A fundamental aspect of neuroscience is understanding neural functioning and plasticity of the brain. The anterior temporal lobe (ATL) is a hub for semantic memory, which generates coherent semantic representations about the world. GABAergic inhibition plays a crucial role in shaping human cognition and plasticity, but it is unclear how this inhibition relates to human semantic memory and its plasticity. Here, we employed a combination of continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS), MR spectroscopy and fMRI to investigate the role of GABA in semantic memory and its neuroplasticity. Our results demonstrated that the inhibitory cTBS increased regional GABA levels in the ATL and decreased ATL blood-oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) activity during semantic processing. Importantly, changes in GABA levels were strongly associated with changes in regional activity induced by cTBS. These results suggest that GABAergic activity may be the mechanism by which cTBS induces after effects on cortical excitability. Furthermore, individuals with better semantic performance exhibited selective activity in the ATL, attributable to higher concentrations of inhibitory GABA, which can sharpen distributed semantic representations, leading to more precise semantic processing. Our results revealed a non-linear, inverted-U-shape relationship between GABA levels in the ATL and semantic performance, thus offering an explanation for the individual differences in the cTBS effect on task performance. These results provide neurochemical and anatomical specificity in shaping task-related cortical activity and behaviour. Understanding the link between neurochemistry and semantic memory has important implications for understanding individual differences in semantic behaviour and developing therapeutic interventions for patients with semantic impairments.
Design of a metaheuristic artificial intelligence (AI) model for an optimal photovoltaic module cooling system
Authors: Kenfack Armel Zambou , kemle Symphorien Tchimoe , Nematchoua Modeste Kameni , Chara-Dackou Venant Sorel , Simo Elie , Temene Hermann Djeudjo
Published: November 2024

The absorption and heat management processes of the PV module are very diverse and in constant development. The advantages and disadvantages of each process imply an effective method of optimal choice. This paper therefore aims to design a multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) model to search for a better configuration of cooled PV/T. Seven objective functions were implemented. The Cost of Energy (COE), Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR, Ergonomic Factor (EF) and Payback Time (CPBT) revealed that photovoltaic /thermal systems (PV/T) with hybrid cooling (Passive/Active) with forced convection PCM/Air (phase change materials) are better. Likewise, the evaluation of the total annual cost (TAC) shows that air cooling systems are more economical. On the other hand, the evaluation of the \(\:{\text{C}\text{O}}_{2}\) cost shows that hybrid cooling systems with NanoPCM /TNF (Ternary Nanofluids) are less polluting. However, the return on investment time of the cooled PV module unit is less than 4 years and the sensitivity of savings of more than $20 in just 5 years of life. The MOPSO method deduced that PV/T systems with hybrid PCM/Air cooling are optimal compared to hybrid TEG/NF (thermoelectric / Nanofluid) systems which are the least efficient. The developed algorithm is very precise for choosing an optimal solar system.
Therapeutic effects of Lycopene loaded Exosomes alleviates on Deoxynivalenol induced testicular injury in mice via the Cyt-c/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 signaling pathway modulation
Authors: Ru Feng , Velmurugan Ramaiyan , Li Chunfeng , Mu Ying , Tian Haiyan , Zhou Lina , Cao Xiaoming
Published: November 2024

Background
Deoxynivalenol (Dex), a nonsteroidal estrogenic mycotoxin found in grains, has estrogen-like effects on the reproductive system. Lycopene (Lyc), a carotenoid found in tomatoes, have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Unfortunately, Dex-induced testicular spermatogenic dysfunction therapies are scarce and the underlying molecular pathways are unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine the mechanism and protective impact of Lycopene-loaded adipose stem cells derived exosomes (Lyc-Exo) against mice testicular damage caused by Dex.
Methods
ADSC-Exo were separated via ultracentrifugation in which followed by Lyc was loaded into exosomes through electroporation method and characterized via TEM, NTA and western blotting. In vivo studies, the effect of Lyc-Exo on Dex induced testicular injury in mice model was examined with various biochemical indexes such as testicular sperm motility, antioxidant status, pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis, histopathology were studied. In addition, the in vitro GC-1 spg cell line were assessed by MTT, CCK-8-cell counting, cytometry, Cell migration and DCF-ROS assay. Lastly, the influence of Lyc-Exo on Dex-induced alterations in signaling transcription factor and apoptotic marker gene expression were assessed by RT-PCR analysis
Results
Lyc-Exo-Dex induced changes in testicular and epidydimal weights, and normalized serum testosterone levels. Moreover, Lyc-Exo enhanced testicular oxidative stress (TBARS, NO, GSH, CAT activity), inflammatory mediators (IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-κβ p65 gene expression), and reduced proapoptotic proteins by activating the Cyt-c/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 signaling pathway. In vitro tests revealed that Lyc-Exo-Dex therapy decreased the cell proliferation which augmented anticancer efficiency, gene expression, and apoptotic effect in GC-1 spg cells.
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that Lyc-Exo protects against Dex-induced testicular damage and oxidative stress, suggesting a possible therapy for spermatogenic dysfunction.
Anti-fibrillation Effect of Gold Nanoparticles Conjugated with Boswellic Acid on α-synuclein
Authors: Gharb Masoumeh , Mozafari Farima , Arghavani Payam , Saboury Ali Akbar , Riazi Gholamhossein
Published: November 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are characterized by the death of neurons in specific brains. α-synuclein (α-Syn) is a key factor in Parkinson’s disease (PD), forming toxic fibrils when misfolded. Natural products, such as Boswellia serrata, have shown promise in treating neurodegenerative diseases. However, the poor pharmacological performance of Boswellia acids (BAs) limits their effectiveness. Enhancing the bioavailability of BAs through nanocarriers could be a solution. This study explores the potential of β-Boswellic acid conjugated to gold nanoparticles (GNPs) as a novel PD treatment. Covalent and noncovalent conjugations of β-Boswellic acid to GNPs (GNP-BA) were developed to study their impact on α-Syn fibrillation in vitro. The successful synthesis of spherical GNPs (< 32 nm) was confirmed using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). UV-visible and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies confirmed the conjugation of BA to GNPs. Specific interactions between α-Syn and GNP-BA conjugates were observed, with GNPs noncovalently bound to BA effectively inhibiting fibril formation. Thioflavin T (ThT) assay and atomic force microscopy (AFM) further supported the inhibitory effect of designed GNPs on α-Syn fibrillation, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for PD treatment.
Space-Safeguarding vs Space-Management: Agent Based Modelling to Assess the Role and Effectiveness of Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions in COVID-19 Mitigation
Authors: He Vivian , Simeoni Shelly , Yiannakoulias Niko
Published: November 2024

Background:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, school closures may have deprived students of crucial opportunities for growth and development. This study is motivated by the challenge of responding to future infectious disease pandemics while minimising the educational and social impacts school closures may have. Specifically, we investigated the efficacy of capacity limits and mandated masking protocols as non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in mitigating the transmission of COVID-19 in a post-secondary setting.
Methods
We developed an agent-based model (ABM) parameterized with demographic and COVID-19 epidemiological characteristics to simulate the spread of disease within a university community. Model parameters account for the spatiotemporal distribution and movement patterns of the agent population, the exogenous rate of infection, and the nature of agent interactions at specific locations.
Results
Overall infection rates were reduced when on-campus masking (between − 275% and − 330%) or on-campus capacity limits (between − 40% and − 43%) were implemented. Off-campus capacity limits were ineffective as a sole intervention. The combination of masking and on-campus capacity limits resulted in infection levels higher than when only masking was implemented but lower than when only capacity limits were implemented and in the absence of all restrictions. Among the interventions studied, masking alone was the most effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19.
Conclusions
The individual implementation of both campus capacity limits and mandated masking influenced the nature of COVID-19 transmission within the university setting, with the latter proving to be much more effective as a sole non-pharmaceutical intervention than the former. Their combined use led to worse outcomes in all modelled scenarios, highlighting the potential benefits of ensuring that lower risk environments remain open. Further research is needed to identify the optimal combination of interventions to strike a balance between alleviating pressure on the healthcare system and ensuring societal well-being.
DIGITAL FICTION IN LITERARY EDUCATION
Authors: Aliagas Cristina , Correro Cristina , Fittipaldi Martina
Published: November 2024

This paper documents L1 teachers’ viewpoints regarding the integration of digital fiction in the form of multimodal, digital literary texts as a resource to foster literary education at secondary level. This study is developed in the context of a larger collaborative, intersectoral research project focused on the co-construction of guided reading of digital fiction texts. Based on interviews with 6 secondary school teachers in Catalonia (Spain), we analyze what teachers think about the arrival of digital fiction in literary education and the pedagogical function they consider that it might perform. Also, we document their fears and doubts regarding the academic use of these texts as well as the teaching and institutional challenges posed by the multimodal and interactive artforms that they envision using. The data analysis shows that one main challenge has to do with grasping the value of works of digital fiction as key texts for literary learning and reflecting on the ways in which digital fiction contributes to building a complex literary competence. Other challenges concern establishing criteria for the selection of quality texts, their suitability for the student/reader, envisioning teaching strategies, the metalanguage on multimodality, and overcoming institutional barriers. Our study also highlights the contributions that, according to teachers, digital fiction brings to reinforcing the interpretive, literary skills of secondary school students.
INTO THE MULTIVERSE – STUDENTS COMMENTING ON AUDIO-VISUAL SIMULTANEITY
Authors: Volker Pietsch
Published: November 2024

In this article, I analyze the results of a qualitative study that investigated how a class of seventeen fourth graders (aged 10 to 11) from a primary school in Lower Saxony verbalize and construct the actions, feelings and perspectives of characters in the same shot by relating it to different soundtracks. The lesson was video- and audio recorded. The transcribed conversation was examined with qualitative content analysis. The results indicate the potential for Multimodal Literacy and Literary Learning that lies in the development of narrative interactions between image and sound in their simultaneity. They encourage examination of whether such approaches can effectively combine the dimensions of Frank Serafini's theoretical framework for Multimodal Literacy. They further suggest that the models of progressive literary competence acquisition still give too little consideration to the didactic potential of film in its media-specific multimodality.
Deciphering the origin of low-grade W mineralization and hydrothermal fluids in the oxidized Fujiashan W skarn deposit using garnet geochemistry
Authors: Ji YunHao , Xie GuiQing , Jowitt Simon M. , Fougerouse Denis , Li Wei , Fu Bin
Published: November 2024

Tungsten-bearing garnet is an important reservoir of W in oxidized W skarns. However, the degree to which W is remobilized from garnet into scheelite is unknown. In addition, differences between W skarns and Cu and Pb-Zn skarn fluids are poorly characterized. This study focuses on these issues and presents new backscattered electron (BSE) imaging, in-situ major element, trace element concentration, and O isotope data for four types of garnets with different spatial locations and textures from the oxidized Fujiashan W skarn deposit. The Fujiashan garnets have Al-depleted cores and Al-enriched rims, reflecting temporal changes in fluid chemistry. In addition, garnet from proximal skarn areas is depleted in grossular (Grs = 2) and F (up to 0.10 wt%) in comparison to distal skarn garnet, which is enriched in grossular (Grs = 69) and F (up to 1.41 wt%). These spatial variations imply that F may have played a role in transporting Al to the distal parts of the skarns. Fujiashan andradite (Adr = 95) contains variable W (7.4-1780 ppm), indicating that the incorporation of W into garnet is controlled not just by Fe3+ abundance but also the availability of W in ore-forming fluids, dynamic external factors, and the concentration of Ti in garnet. Fujiashan garnet also contains relatively high W concentrations (up to 2221 ppm) and lacks evidence of re-equilibration during retrograde alteration. These relationships suggest that W-rich garnet is not the source for scheelite, potentially explaining the typical low W grades of oxidized W skarn deposits. In-situ O isotopic values for Fujiashan garnet are 4.2–7.4 ‰ and indicate the garnet formed from a mixture of magmatic and metamorphic fluids, with limited contribution from meteoric fluids. These fluid characteristics contrast with the significant meteoric water contribution recorded by garnet in Cu and Pb-Zn skarn systems, suggesting significant differences between these skarn systems and the processes involved in the generation of W skarn mineralization.
Analcime-wairakite formation during experimental cement-bentonite alteration at 200-300 °C
Authors: Zandanel Amber , Sauer Kirsten B. , Rock Marlena J. , Caporuscio Florie A. , Jové-Colón Carlos F. , Matteo Edward N.
Published: November 2024

Engineered barrier system materials in nuclear waste repositories may undergo hydrothermal alteration in response to groundwater saturation and heating events over their long operational timescales. Hydrothermal interactions between engineered materials (e.g., bentonite buffers, cements, waste canister materials) and the host rock environment may drive alteration processes that affect the advantageous properties of some barrier materials. However, such alteration will also promote the formation of zeolites, hydrothermally formed minerals that may themselves act to isolate radionuclides. Understanding the environmental conditions that control radionuclide-sorbing properties of zeolites, such as Si/Al ratio or Na content, will then be valuable for assessing the changing properties of engineered barrier materials in the case of an in-situ heating event. Here we present experimental work characterizing the formation of zeolites during hydrothermal interactions between generic clay and cement barrier materials, with focus on the analcime-wairakite zeolite series that has known radionuclide sorption and exchange properties. We present the results of hydrothermal experiments combining uncured ordinary Portland cement powder with steel and Wyoming bentonite in the presence of Opalinus clay and a synthesized Opalinus clay groundwater to simulate water-saturated conditions in an argillaceous rock repository. The experiments were conducted isothermally at 200 or 300 °C for 8 to 24 weeks. In contrast to analogous studies that did not include cement reactants, we observed the formation of analcime-group minerals in all experiments. The addition of cement resulted in lower Si/Al ratios in the zeolites than was reported by similar studies that did not include cement. The presence of cement as a reactant was interpreted to promote analcime formation at 200 °C. At 300 °C, we observed higher calcium and silica concentrations in the aqueous solutions as well as increased wairakite formation and decreased analcime formation compared to the experiments at 200 °C. These results show a fully realized analcime-wairakite solid solution that falls between Si/Al = 2 (ideal) and a trend of analcime minerals that have increasing Si/Al ratios with increasing Na/(Na+Ca). Our results show predictable relationships between Si/Al ratio and analcime-wairakite content under hydrothermal conditions and illustrate that repository material interactions may promote the formation of zeolites in the analcime-wairakite solid solution during heating events in the subsurface.
Demissão e transição de carreira de trabalhadores na maturidade
Authors: Oliveira Lucia Barbosa de , Silva Eliana Cristina Motta da
Published: November 2024

O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a transição de carreira de trabalhadores na maturidade que tiveram suas carreiras corporativas interrompidas pela demissão. Participaram da pesquisa, de caráter qualitativo e exploratório, 21 profissionais, com idades entre 45 e 60 anos, que ocupavam cargos de gestão e foram desligados das organizações privadas em que trabalhavam. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de entrevistas individuais, conduzidas segundo o método biográfico. Os resultados mostraram que a transição de carreira foi influenciada por fatores contextuais e individuais, incluindo condições do mercado de trabalho, ageísmo, duração da transição, situação financeira, suporte social e características pessoais. Com relação aos resultados da transição, foram identificados três grupos, denominados excluídos, precarizados e nostálgicos, em consonância com sua posição em relação ao mercado de trabalho formal. Apesar de terem seguido caminhos diferentes, todos se encontravam numa posição notadamente pior do que a anterior à demissão. De uma perspectiva teórica, esses resultados nos permitem questionar os modelos de carreira que reforçam o viés da agência individual, relativamente aos aspectos contextuais. De uma perspectiva aplicada, ao trazer evidências da vulnerabilidade de trabalhadores maduros, esperamos chamar a atenção para a necessidade de políticas públicas e práticas organizacionais voltadas à valorização desse grupo profissional.
Inovação aberta e estratégia aberta sob a perspectiva da estratégia como prática: um ensaio teórico
Authors: Trigos Maria Luciana , Lavarda Rosalia Aldraci Barbosa
Published: November 2024

A Open Strategy (OS) emerge como um fenômeno que tem permitido à organização se adequar ao conceito que incorpora práticas de Open Innovation (OI) com foco em maior transparência e inclusão nos processos de formação da estratégia. Ainda, há, cada vez mais, interesse em estudar a Strategy as Practice (SAP), isto é, os microprocessos e práticas, que geram resultados estratégicos significativos. Apesar do crescimento das pesquisas sobre OI, OS e SAP, notamos que a teoria ainda é fragmentada e existem lacunas, principalmente tratando-se de uma abordagem conjunta e interconectada dessas temáticas. Por conseguinte, o objetivo deste estudo foi compreender como se relacionam os conceitos Open Inovation (OI) e Open Strategy (OS) a partir da perspectiva de Strategy as Practice (SAP). Assim, realizamos um ensaio teórico a partir de artigos relevantes sobre os referidos temas. Os principais resultados apontam que as práticas de OI podem contribuir para a abertura da estratégia sob a perspectiva das microações executadas pelos participantes intra e extraorganizacionais. Ressaltamos a importância de continuarem os estudos sobre a transferência de conhecimentos e tecnologias externas que podem ser inseridas no processo e práticas da estratégia, pois as interações entre os atores agregados extraorganizacionais e as micro e macropráticas foram amplamente negligenciadas nas pesquisas em estratégia, o que leva a pensar que existem oportunidades para novos estudos.
Yem Şalgamının Mürdümük Tohumlarının Çimlenme ve Fide Gelişimi Üzerinde Allelopatik Etkisi
Authors: Leblebici Sema , Başaran Ugur , Gülümser Erdem
Published: November 2024

Bitkiler tarafından salgılanan sekonder metabolitlerin kendinden sonra gelen veya aynı ortamda bulunan diğer bitkilerin büyüme ve gelişimini olumlu veya olumsuz yönde etkilemesine allelopati denir. Bu çalışmada yem şalgamı (Brassica rapa L.)’ndan elde edilen ekstraktların mürdümük (Lathyrus sativus L.) bitkisinin çimlenme ve fide gelişimi üzerindeki allelopatik etkisinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çiçeklenme döneminde hasat edilen yem şalgamından 500 gr tartılarak 3 litre saf su içerisine koyulmuş ve 7 saat bekletilmiştir. Bu özütten dört farklı doz (%100, %75, %50, %25) elde edilmiştir. Kontrol olarak ise %100 saf su kullanılmıştır. Petrilerde yürütülen çalışma Tesadüf Parselleri Deneme Desenine göre 4 tekrarlı kurulmuştur. Yem şalgamı ile sulanan mürdümük bitkisinde çimlenme oranı (ÇO), tohum canlılık indeksi (TCİ) kök ve gövde uzunluğu, kök ve gövde yaş-kuru ağırlığı, kök (KB) ve gövde biyokütlesi (GB) özellikleri belirlenmiştir. Çalışmada ÇO ve TCİ değeri sırasıyla %72.00-96.00 ve 24.98-49.38 arasında olmuştur. En yüksek kök (61.83 kg/ha) ve gövde (1780.84 kg/ha) biyokütle ağırlığı %25 yem şalgamı ekstraktı ile sulanan işlemden elde edilmiştir. Sonuç olarak yem şalgamının %25 oranındaki ekstraktının mürdümük bitkisinin çimlenme ve fide gelişimi üzerinde olumlu etki, bu dozdan sonra ise inhibitör görev üstlendiği belirlenmiştir. Bu durum aynı zamanda yem şalgamın zengin biyoaktif bileşen içermesinden dolayı mürdümük üzerinde negatif allelopatik etki yarattığının da bir göstergesidir. Buna göre, yem şalgamının mürdümük bitkisinin gelişimi üzerinde etkisinin daha net anlaşılabilmesi için daha düşük dozların da denenmesi gerekmektedir.
Comparative Study of Progressive Collapse Behavior of Auxetic Concrete Cellular Structures Under Low-Velocity Impact Loading
Authors: Solak Kemal , Orhan Süleyman Nazif
Published: November 2024

The combination of auxetic behavior with concrete offers promising advancements in structural materials, providing unique mechanical properties that enhance impact resistance and energy absorption. The study investigates the mechanical behavior of auxetic concrete cellular structures, focusing on elliptic and peanut-shaped unit cells as well as their modified stiffener configurations, under low-velocity impact loading. To compare their impact performance, traditional and stiffened models were analyzed numerically using finite element solver ANSYS/LS-DYNA. The findings indicate significant differences between traditional and stiffened models. Stiffened models, such as SEC and SPC, exhibit higher maximum impact forces compared to traditional models like TEC and TPC. The introduction of stiffeners delays the zero-force phenomenon, resulting in extended energy absorption periods. The TPC model absorbed the most significant proportion of the initial impact velocity among traditional models, whereas the SPC model exhibited the highest energy absorption in models with stiffeners. The study highlights the potential of stiffened auxetic concrete cellular structures to enhance impact resistance and energy dissipation, making them advantageous for applications requiring high structural resilience. Further research into varying impact velocities and loading directions is recommended to optimize these structures for diverse conditions.