bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Genomic-Driven Discovery of Glutarimide-Containing Derivatives from Burkholderia gladioli
Authors: Chen Hanna , Bai Xianping , Sun Tao , Wang Xingyan , Zhang Youming , Bian Xiaoying , Zhou Haibo
Published: October 2023

Glutarimide-containing polyketides exhibiting potent antitumor and antimicrobial activities were encoded via conserved module blocks in various strains that favor the genomic mining of these family compounds. The bioinformatic analysis of the genome of Burkholderia gladioli ATCC 10248 showed a silent trans-AT PKS biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) on chromosome 2 (Chr2C8), which was predicted to produce new glutarimide-containing derivatives. Then, the silent polyketide synthase gene cluster was successfully activated via in situ promoter insertion and heterologous expression. As a result, seven glutarimide-containing analogs, including five new ones, gladiofungins D-H (3–7), and two known gladiofungin A/gladiostatin (1) and 2 (named gladiofungin C), were isolated from the fermentation of the activated mutant. Their structures were elucidated through the analysis of HR-ESI-MS and NMR spectroscopy. The structural diversities of gladiofungins may be due to the degradation of the butenolide group in gladiofungin A (1) during the fermentation and extraction process. Bioactivity screening showed that 2 and 4 had moderate anti-inflammatory activities. Thus, genome mining combined with promoter engineering and heterologous expression were proved to be effective strategies for the pathway-specific activation of the silent BGCs for the directional discovery of new natural products.
Spike Optimization to Improve Properties of Ferroelectric Tunnel Junction Synaptic Devices for Neuromorphic Computing System Applications
Authors: Byun Jisu , Kho Wonwoo , Hwang Hyunjoo , Kang Yoomi , Kang Minjeong , Noh Taewan , Kim Hoseong , Lee Jimin , Kim Hyo-Bae , Ahn Ji-Hoon , Ahn Seung-Eon
Published: October 2023

The continuous advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology depends on the efficient processing of unstructured data, encompassing text, speech, and video. Traditional serial computing systems based on the von Neumann architecture, employed in information and communication technology development for decades, are not suitable for the concurrent processing of massive unstructured data tasks with relatively low-level operations. As a result, there arises a pressing need to develop novel parallel computing systems. Recently, there has been a burgeoning interest among developers in emulating the intricate operations of the human brain, which efficiently processes vast datasets with remarkable energy efficiency. This has led to the proposal of neuromorphic computing systems. Of these, Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs), designed to closely resemble the information processing mechanisms of biological neural networks, are subjects of intense research activity. Nevertheless, a comprehensive investigation into the relationship between spike shapes and Spike-Timing-Dependent Plasticity (STDP) to ensure efficient synaptic behavior remains insufficiently explored. In this study, we systematically explore various input spike types to optimize the resistive memory characteristics of Hafnium-based Ferroelectric Tunnel Junction (FTJ) devices. Among the various spike shapes investigated, the square-triangle (RT) spike exhibited good linearity and symmetry, and a wide range of weight values could be realized depending on the offset of the RT spike. These results indicate that the spike shape serves as a crucial indicator in the alteration of synaptic connections, representing the strength of the signals.
Production of Metallic Alloy Nanowires and Particles Templated Using Tomato Mosaic Virus (ToMV)
Authors: Shah Sachin N. , Heddle Jonathan G. , Evans David J. , Lomonossoff George P.
Published: October 2023

We demonstrate a simple, low-energy method whereby tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) particles can be used to template the production of nanowires and particles consisting of alloys of gold (Au), platinum (Pt) and palladium (Pd) in various combinations. Selective nanowire growth within the inner channel of the particles was achieved using the polymeric capping agent polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVPK30) and the reducing agent ascorbic acid. The reaction conditions also resulted in the deposition of alloy nanoparticles on the external surface of the rods in addition to the nanowire structures within the internal cavity. The resulting materials were characterized using a variety of electron microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, which revealed both the structural and chemical composition of the alloys within the nanomaterials.
Controlling the Morphology of Tellurene for a High-Performance H2S Chemiresistive Room-Temperature Gas Sensor
Authors: Je Yeonjin , Chee Sang-Soo
Published: October 2023

A two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals material composed only of tellurium (Te) atoms—tellurene—is drawing attention because of its high intrinsic electrical conductivity and strong interaction with gas molecules, which could allow the development of high-performance chemiresistive sensors. However, the correlation between the morphologies and gas detection properties of tellurene has not yet been studied in depth, and few reports exist on tellurene-based hydrogen sulfide (H2S) chemiresistive sensors in spite of their strong interaction with H2S molecules. Here, we investigate the morphology-dependent H2S gas detection properties of tellurene synthesized using a hydrothermal method. To tailor the morphologies of tellurene, the molecular weight of the surfactant was controlled, revealing that a 1D or 2D form was synthesized and also accompanied with the high crystallinity. The 1D tellurene-based chemiresistive sensor presented superior H2S detection properties compared to the 2D form, achieving a gas response (Rg/Ra) of ~38, even at room temperature. This outstanding performance was attributed to the high intrinsic electrical conductivity and high specific surface area of the resultant 1D tellurene.
A Higher Skeletal Muscle Mass and Lower Adiposity Phenotype Is Associated with Better Cardiometabolic Control in Adults with Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: Results from the Chilean National Health Survey 2016–2017
Authors: Guede-Rojas Francisco , Ibacache-Saavedra Paulina , Leal María Inés , Tuesta Marcelo , Durán-Marín Cristóbal , Carrasco-Marín Fernanda , Cigarroa Igor , Alvarez Cristian , Izquierdo Mikel , Delgado-Floody Pedro
Published: October 2023

Objective: This study aimed to (1) characterize cardiometabolic factors in self-reported hip and knee osteoarthritis (OAD) across four body composition phenotypes defined by muscle mass and adiposity, and (2) associate risk factors with diabetes and hypertension (HTN). Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of the Chilean National Health Survey 2016–17 (n = 4996) stratified participants into four groups: low skeletal muscle mass/high waist circumference (Low-SMM/High-WC), low SMM/low WC (Low-SMM/Low-WC), high SMM/high WC (High-SMM/High-WC), and high SMM/low WC (reference group). Each group was further divided into subgroups with or without diagnosed hip or knee OAD. The main outcomes were fasting plasma glucose, systolic (SBP)/diastolic (DBP) blood pressure (continuous outcomes), and other secondary factors such as cardiovascular risk (CVR). Results: In the hip OAD subgroup, the Low-SMM/High-WC groups had significantly higher SBP versus the reference value (145 vs. 127 mmHg, p < 0.0001, diff +18 mmHg). In the knee OAD subgroup, the Low-SMM/High-WC groups had significantly higher SBP versus the reference value (141 vs. 134 mmHg, p < 0.0001, diff +7 mmHg). The SBP showed a significant interaction between the group and OAD diagnosis (p = 0.007 hip OAD; p < 0.0001 knee OAD). Conclusions: Hip and knee OAD associates with elevated SBP/DBP in older adults. OAD groups showed an OR above 2 for diabetes, 2.7 for HTN, 4.5 for metabolic syndrome, and over 2 for moderate-to-high cardiovascular risk. OAD interacts substantially with cardiometabolic factors, especially in low muscle mass/high adiposity phenotypes. Lifestyle optimization of physical activity and nutrition to preserve muscle mass and mitigate adiposity is essential for cardiometabolic health promotion in OAD patients.
Identification of Andrographolide as an Agonist of Bile Acid TGR5 Receptor in a Cell Line to Demonstrate the Reduction in Hyperglycemia in Type-1 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Li Yingxiao , Cheng Kai-Chun , Liu I-Min , Cheng Juei-Tang
Published: October 2023

Andrographolide (ADG) is contained in bitter plants, and its effects are widely thought to be associated with taste receptors. The current study used animal studies and cell lines to investigate the role of ADG in diabetic models. The Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor (TGR5) was directly influenced by ADG, and this boosted GLP-1 synthesis in CHO-K1 cells transfected with the TGR5 gene. However, this was not seen in TGR5-mutant cells. The human intestinal L-cell line NCI-H716 showed an increase in GLP-1 production in response to ADG. In NCI-H716 cells, the TGR5 inhibitor triamterene reduced the effects of ADG, including the rise in TGR5 mRNA levels that ADG caused. Additionally, as with the antihyperglycemic impact in type-1 diabetic rats, the increase in plasma-active GLP-1 level caused by ADG was enhanced by a DPP-4 inhibitor. The recovery of the hypoglycemic effect in diabetic rats and the increase in plasma GLP-1 caused by ADG were both suppressed by TGR5 blockers. As a result, after activating TGR5, ADG may boost GLP-1 synthesis in diabetic rats, enhancing glucose homeostasis. In Min-6 cells, a pancreatic cell line grown in culture, ADG-induced insulin secretion was also examined. Blocking GLP-1 receptors had little impact, suggesting that ADG directly affects TGR5 activity in Min-6 cells. A TGR5 mRNA level experiment in Min-6 cells further confirmed that TGR5 is activated by ADG. The current study revealed a novel finding suggesting that ADG may activate TGR5 in diabetic rats in a way that results in enhanced insulin and GLP-1 production, which may be helpful for future research and therapies.
First Chemical Profile Analysis of Acacia Pods
Authors: Pedro Soraia I. , Fernandes Tiago A. , Luís Ângelo , Antunes Alexandra M. M. , Gonçalves José C. , Gominho Jorge , Gallardo Eugenia , Anjos Ofélia
Published: October 2023

This study intended to evaluate the potential industrial applications of various Acacia species (Acacia melanoxylon, Acacia longifolia, Acacia cyclops, Acacia retinodes, Acacia pycnantha, Acacia mearnsii, and Acacia dealbata) by examining their chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Using high-resolution mass spectrometry, a comprehensive analysis successfully identified targeted compounds, including flavonoids (flavonols/flavones) and phenolic acids, such as 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, p-coumaric acid, and ellagic acid. Additionally, p-coumaric acid was specifically identified and quantified within the hydroxycinnamic aldehydes. This comprehensive characterization provides valuable insights into the chemical profiles of the studied species. Among the studied species, A. pycnantha exhibited a higher concentration of total phenolic compounds, including catechin, myricetin, quercetin, and coniferaldehyde. Furthermore, A. pycnantha displayed notable antibacterial activity against K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. Typhimurium, and B. cereus. The identified compounds in Acacia pods and their shown antibacterial activities exhibit promising potential for future applications. Moreover, vibrational spectroscopy was a reliable method for distinguishing between species. These significant findings enhance our understanding of Acacia species and their potential for various industrial applications.
Recent Advances in the Treatment of Industrial Wastewater from Different Celluloses in Continuous Systems
Authors: Sayago Uriel Fernando Carreño , Ballesteros Ballesteros Vladimir
Published: October 2023

There are numerous studies on water care methods featured in various academic and research journals around the world. One research area is cellulose residue coupled with continuous systems to identify which are more efficient and easier to install. Investigations have included mathematical design models that provide methods for developing and commissioning industrial wastewater treatment plants, but nothing is provided on how to size and start these treatment systems. Therefore, the objective is to determine recent advances in the treatment of industrial wastewater from different celluloses in continuous systems. The dynamic behavior of the research results with cellulose biomasses was analyzed with the mass balance model and extra-particle and intraparticle dispersion, evaluating adsorption capacities, design variables, and removal constants, and making a size contribution for each cellulose analyzed using adsorption capacities. A mathematical model was also developed that feeds on cellulose reuse, determining new adsorption capacities and concluding that the implementation of cellulose waste treatment systems has a high feasibility due to low costs and high adsorption capacities. Furthermore, with the design equations, the companies themselves could design their systems for the treatment of water contaminated with heavy metals with cellulose.
Epistemic Theodicy, Epistemic Evil, and Epistemic Responsibility
Authors: Strahovnik Vojko
Published: October 2023

The paper explores the concept of epistemic theodicy and strengthens an argument that reconciles human fallibility with the existence of an all-powerful and benevolent God. This argument is grounded in epistemic responsibility, emphasizing our epistemic autonomy. The paper supports two aspects of this argument: the role of epistemic agency in shaping beliefs and belief formation based on experiential rationality. The paper begins by introducing the concept of epistemic theodicy and its relation to the problem of epistemic evil. Next, it presents a succinct version of the argument based on epistemic responsibility. The paper then focuses on epistemic agency, proposing a notion rooted in reasons-responsiveness and highlighting the agentive nature of belief formation. It provides an outline a of view of epistemic rationality grounded in experiential rationality, showing its compatibility with the responsibility-based response to the problem of epistemic evil. The conclusion reflects on the significance of these accounts of agency and rationality in the context of epistemic theodicy.
Towards Operational Fiducial Reference Measurement (FRM) Data for the Calibration and Validation of the Sentinel-3 Surface Topography Mission over Inland Waters, Sea Ice, and Land Ice
Authors: Da Silva Elodie , Woolliams Emma R. , Picot Nicolas , Poisson Jean-Christophe , Skourup Henriette , Moholdt Geir , Fleury Sara , Behnia Sajedeh , Favier Vincent , Arnaud Laurent , Aublanc Jérémie , Fouqueau Valentin , Taburet Nicolas , Renou Julien , Yesou Hervé , Tarpanelli Angelica , Camici Stefania , Fredensborg Hansen Renée Mie , Nielsen Karina , Vivier Frédéric , Boy François , Fjørtoft Roger , Cancet Mathilde , Ferrari Ramiro , Picard Ghislain , Tourian Mohammad J. , Sneeuw Nicolaas , Munesa Eric , Calzas Michel , Paris Adrien , Le Meur Emmanuel , Rabatel Antoine , Valladeau Guillaume , Bonnefond Pascal , Labroue Sylvie , Andersen Ole , El Hajj Mahmoud , Catapano Filomena , Féménias Pierre
Published: October 2023

The Copernicus Sentinel-3 Surface Topography Mission (STM) Land Altimetry provides valuable surface elevation information over inland waters, sea ice, and land ice, thanks to its synthetic aperture radar (SAR) altimeter and its orbit that covers high-latitude polar regions. To ensure that these measurements are reliable and to maximise the return on investment, adequate validation of the geophysical retrieval methods, processing algorithms, and corrections must be performed using independent observations. The EU-ESA project St3TART (started July 2021) aims to generalise the concept of Fiducial Reference Measurements (FRMs) for the Copernicus Sentinel-3 STM. This work has gathered existing data, made new observations during field campaigns, and ensured that these observations meet the criteria of FRM standards so that they can be used to validate Sentinel-3 STM Land Altimetry products operationally. A roadmap for the operational provision of the FRM, including the definition, consolidation, and identification of the most relevant and cost-effective methods and protocols to be maintained, supported, or implemented, has been developed. The roadmap includes guidelines for SI traceability, definitions of FRM measurement procedures, processing methods, and uncertainty budget estimations.
Comprehensive Assessment of Vulnerability to Storm Surges in Coastal China: Towards a Prefecture-Level Cities Perspective
Authors: Liu Xiaoliang , Liu Yueming , Wang Zhihua , Yang Xiaomei , Zeng Xiaowei , Meng Dan
Published: October 2023

China is one of the countries that suffers severe damage from storm surges. Assessing the vulnerability to storm surges holds great significance for promoting sustainable development and minimizing disaster losses in coastal areas. This study first developed a vulnerability index by integrating 15 indicators from three components (exposure, sensitivity, and adaptability) that provide a comprehensive portrayal of the multidimensional structure of vulnerability. Subsequently, the vulnerability of Chinese coastal areas was comprehensively evaluated from the perspective of prefecture-level cities using a weight combination strategy. Furthermore, spatial statistical techniques were utilized to analyze the spatial heterogeneity of vulnerability. The results show that 64% of coastal cities are classified as being in the very high and high vulnerability categories, with Zhanjiang, Lingao, Dalian, Yancheng, and Shanwei exhibiting the highest vulnerability levels. Among the provinces, Guangxi and Hainan Provinces demonstrate the highest vulnerability, with more than 90% of their coastal cities facing high vulnerability. Additionally, the vulnerability of Chinese coastal cities exhibits significant spatial heterogeneity. Specifically, coastal cities located in the Yangtze River Delta and the Pearl River Delta regions are identified as low–low (LL) vulnerability clusters, whereas high–high (HH) vulnerability clusters are observed in coastal cities within the Beibu Gulf region. These results provide valuable insights for the formulation of disaster reduction policies at the provincial level and the focus for action at the local level.
Can Powerful Knowledge Save Us? Critical Reflections through the Lens of Political Education
Authors: Sandahl Johan , Björklund Mattias
Published: October 2023

In most Western democracies, there is an ongoing discussion on the role of education, particularly in times of increasingly polarized political views, leading to democratic erosion and social unrest. Citizens have been described as living in echo chambers, relying on, and often receiving, information that confirms their own world views and political ideas. In this climate, education has been emphasized as an important antidote to provide students with knowledge, skills, attitudes and values to strengthen democracy and social cohesion. In most cases, this assignment is primarily tasked with subjects that can be considered political education, such as social studies, civics or social science education. However, there is no consensus on what kind of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values students need to fulfil a “good political education”. Historically, there has been a rift between advocates of progressive ideas such as political deliberation and those who favor an emphasis on disciplinary-based knowledge. The latter perspective has been, for some time now, highlighted in educational sciences through Michael Young’s concept of powerful knowledge, where knowledge from academic disciplines is emphasized in shaping youth into critical thinkers on social and political issues. This article critically examines the ideas of powerful knowledge and its potential for political education in secondary school. An important argument is that powerful knowledge, or disciplinary thinking, is necessary for a good political education but not sufficient in its own right. In order to deal with complex political issues, students need to be invited with their life-world perspectives.
Estimating Groundwater Flow Velocity in Shallow Volcanic Aquifers of the Ethiopian Highlands Using a Geospatial Technique
Authors: Shube Hassen , Kebede Seifu , Azagegn Tilahun , Nedaw Dessie , Haji Muhammed , Karuppannan Shankar
Published: October 2023

The shallow volcanic aquifer is the major rural water supply source in the Ethiopian highlands. A significant number of hand pump wells in these aquifers experience a rapid decline in yield and poor performance within a short period of time after construction. Hence, reliable estimation of groundwater flow velocity is important to understand groundwater flow dynamics, aquifer responses to stresses and to optimize the sustainable management of groundwater resources. Here, we propose the geospatial technique using four essential input raster maps (groundwater elevation head, transmissivity, effective porosity and saturated thickness) to investigate groundwater flow velocity magnitude and direction in the shallow volcanic aquifers of the Ethiopian highlands. The results indicated that the high groundwater flow velocity in the Mecha site, ranging up to 47 m/day, was observed in the fractured scoraceous basalts. The Ejere site showed groundwater flow velocity not exceeding 7 m/day in the fractured basaltic aquifer and alluvial deposits. In the Sodo site, the groundwater flow velocity was observed to exceed 22 m/day in the fractured basaltic and rhyolitic aquifers affected by geological structures. The Abeshege site has a higher groundwater flow velocity of up to 195 m/day in the highly weathered and fractured basaltic aquifer. In all study sites, aquifers with less fractured basalt, trachyte, rhyolite, welded pyroclastic, and lacustrine deposits exhibited lower groundwater flow velocity values. The groundwater flow velocity directions in all study sites are similar to the groundwater elevation head, which signifies the local and regional groundwater flow directions. This work can be helpful in shallow groundwater resource development and management for rural water supply.
Research on Energy Efficiency Evaluation Model of Substation Building Based on AHP and Fuzzy Comprehensive Theory
Authors: Xue Binglei , Lu Fumu , Guo Juanli , Wang Zhoupeng , Zhang Zhongrui , Lu Yi
Published: October 2023

The traditional energy-saving evaluation method for industrial buildings is intended for all industrial buildings; however, substation buildings belong to a special category of industrial buildings, and their energy consumption characteristics are different from those of general industrial buildings. Consequently, it is necessary to establish an energy-saving evaluation system for substation buildings according to the characteristics of their energy consumption. In view of the issue that the energy consumption characteristics of substation buildings are different from those of other industrial buildings, an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) are used to establish a more comprehensive energy saving evaluation model that is more applicable to substation buildings. This paper determines 19 quantitative indicators and 13 qualitative indicators through the screening of relevant standards and norms, as well as the literature, and then determines the weight of each indicator by using AHP before finally establishing a secondary evaluation model based on FCE. In this paper, a substation in Shandong, China was selected as a case study to verify the proposed evaluation model, scoring 80.4 points, which falls within the “Good” grade. This method is of great significance for the future establishment of energy-saving evaluation system for substation buildings.
Numerical Simulation of Corrugated Steel Concrete Prefabricated Support Structure for Underground Engineering
Authors: Guo Caixia , Wang Zuozhen , Zhao Hongbing , Zhou Zhiqiang , Wang Miao
Published: October 2023

The spray anchor system is commonly used for primary support in underground projects due to its advantages such as fast closure of excavation surfaces, tight connection with the surrounding rock, and high early strength. However, this system has several drawbacks, such as severe pollution, poor working conditions, long construction periods, and high labor costs. In response to the concepts of green construction and prefabrication, this study proposes an innovative composite structure consisting of corrugated steel plates and concrete, namely, corrugated steel–concrete (CSC), which is a prefabricated support structure for underground engineering. The proposed system involves on-site corrugated steel plates and concrete, and the concrete is poured into the corrugated steel plates without using shotcrete. This approach mitigates pollution and improves working conditions. After the introduction to the novel structural system, elaborate Abaqus numerical models are developed to investigate the mechanical performance considering full elastoplastic response until failure. The steel–concrete interfacial connections, as a major factor in composite structures, are carefully studied and discussed based on the delicate interfacial contact model. The deformations, stress distributions, and failure types are analyzed. A parametric analysis is also conducted to expand the efficient range. Theoretical analysis is further carried out, and design expressions are proposed, which are verified to be suitable for design considerations.
Evaluating Compound Flooding Risks in Coastal Cities under Climate Change—The Maputo Case Study, in Mozambique
Authors: Matos José Pedro , Ferreira Filipa , Mendes Diogo , Matos José Saldanha
Published: October 2023

Flooding is a truly ubiquitous problem. Today, it puts an estimated 1.81 billion people at risk. Floods particularly affect coastal cities, where it is expected that the damage associated with inundations exceed the staggering value of USD 50 billion by 2050. Indeed, the risk associated with flooding in coastal cities is increasing due to three unequivocal trends: growing population in large urban centres, sea level rise, and increased intensity of extreme weather events. Planning and implementation of storm drainage systems in large cities is a complex, long, and expensive process. Typically, the effective lifespan of storm drainage systems may extend to nearly a century. Accordingly, such systems should be designed for the future, not the present. Addressing these important challenges, the paper evaluates flood risks in the coastal city of Maputo, in Mozambique. Results show that, although downtown Maputo is not particularly exposed to compound flooding, accounting for rainfall-tide events is essential to understand flooding in the area and evaluating the performance of the storm drainage system.
Classification of Data Mining Techniques under the Environment of T-Bipolar Soft Rings
Authors: Ahmmad Jabbar , Alsuraiheed Turki , Khan Meraj Ali , Mahmood Tahir
Published: October 2023

Data mining evaluation is very critical in the sense that it determines how well a classification model performs and how well it can generate accurate predictions on brand-new, unexplored data. It is especially important for classification tasks. There are several methods for evaluating classification models, and the choice of evaluation strategies depends on the particular situation, the available data, and the desired outcomes. The notion of a T-bipolar soft set (TBSS) is a valuable parameterization tool and is closer to the concept of bipolarity. Moreover, algebraic structures like groups, rings, and modules, etc., are basic tools that can be helpful not only in mathematics but also in other scientific areas due to their symmetric properties. In this article, based on the novelty of TBSS and the characteristics of rings, we have generalized these two notions to deliver and introduce the notion of T-bipolar soft rings (TBSRs). Additionally, the concepts of AND product, OR product, extended union, extended intersection, restricted union, and restricted intersection for two TBSRs is introduced, and the related results are conferred. To support these proposed notions, we have delivered examples related to these ideas. For the applicability of the developed approach, an algorithm is defined based on the delivered approach. An illustrative example regarding the classification of data mining techniques is developed to show the applications of the introduced work. We can see that there are four alternatives, and their score values are, respectively, given by −4, 42, 0, and −32. Based on these results, we can evaluate the best data mining technique. So, the defined algorithm makes it easy for us to classify the data mining techniques. Further asymmetric data are frequently employed for selecting the best alternative in decision-making problems because the information regarding alternatives is not necessarily always symmetric. Therefore, asymmetric information can be discussed using these proposed concepts.
Galeite, Na15(SO4)5ClF4, and Schairerite, Na21(SO4)7ClF6: Phase Transitions, Thermal Expansion and Thermal Stability
Authors: Avdontceva Margarita S. , Zolotarev Andrey A. , Shablinskii Andrey P. , Bocharov Vladimir N. , Kasatkin Anatoly V. , Krivovichev Sergey V.
Published: October 2023

In this study, galeite, Na15(SO4)5ClF4 and schairerite, Na21(SO4)7ClF6 were investigated via in situ single-crystal X-ray diffraction in the temperature range of 300–750 K. Galeite and schairerite are trigonal, P31m, a = 12.1903(2), c = 13.9454(2) Å, V = 1794.69(6) Å3, and Z = 3 (R1 = 0.0273, 300 K) for galeite and a = 12.1859(3), c = 19.3080(6) Å, V = 2483.04(14) Å3, and Z = 3 (R1 = 0.0334, 300 K) for schairerite. The crystal structures of galeite and schairerite are based upon frameworks consisting of alternating face- and corner-sharing fluorine- and chlorine-centered octahedra. Galeite and schairerite can be attributed to 5H (galeite) and 7H (schairerite) antiperovskite polytypes, respectively. It was observed that schairerite undergoes at least one reversible phase transition before it starts to lose its crystallinity at 750 K. This phase transition occurs in the temperature range of 550–600 K. The high-temperature modification of schairerite is trigonal, with the centrosymmetric space group P-3m1 and the unit-cell parameters a = 7.0714(2), c = 19.5972(7) Å, V = 848.66(6) Å3, and Z = 1. Galeite is stable up to 600 K. The crystal structures of minerals expand anisotropically, and, in both cases, the strongest thermal expansion was parallel to the modules of face-sharing anion-centered octahedra. The structural complexity analysis showed that galeite is complex (695.175 bits/cell) and that the LT-modification of schairerite is very complex (1064.990 bits/cell), whereas its HT-modification is intermediate in complexity (256.755 bits/cell). The complexities of LT- and HT-polymorphs of schairerite are consistent with the general observations regarding structures with positional disorder: complexity decreases with increasing temperature, and simpler polymorphs have lower physical density.
Cross-Departmental Synergetic Design in Home Appliance Enterprises—Exploring the Role of Project Management, Social Capital, and Organizational Efficiency in the Context of Sustainability
Authors: Yang Chun , Wang Min
Published: October 2023

This article discusses the interactions among project management, social capital, and organizational efficiency in the cross-departmental synergetic design of home appliance enterprises, with the goal of providing a reference for related enterprises’ collaborative innovation. The structural equation modeling was used in this study to analyze the trust relationships, shared vision, and mutually motivating innovation teams established among people, information, social capital, and organizational efficiency in the project context. Research has found that effective information sharing and communication in the cross-departmental synergetic design of enterprises can significantly improve organizational performance and competitiveness under the conditions of social capital and task adaptation. Synergetic design innovations in organizations promote mutual trust, understanding, and the acceleration of innovation among organizational members, thereby achieving the enterprise’s goal of sustainable development. This study concludes that social capital is essential for enterprises.
Assessing the Loss Given Default of Bank Loans Using the Hybrid Algorithms Multi-Stage Model
Authors: Fan Mengting , Wu Tsung-Hsien , Zhao Qizhi
Published: October 2023

The loss given default (LGD) is an important credit risk parameter in the regulatory system for financial institutions. Due to the complex structure of the LGD distribution, we propose a new approach, called the hybrid algorithms multi-stage (HMS) model, to construct a multi-stage LGD prediction model and test it on the US Small Business Administration (SBA)’s small business credit dataset. We then compare the model’s performance under four routes by different evaluation metrics. Finally, pertinent business information and macroeconomic features datasets are added for robustness validation. The results show that HMS performs well and stably for predicting LGD, confirming the superiority of the proposed hybrid unsupervised and supervised machine learning algorithm. Financial institutions can apply the approach to make default predictions based on other credit datasets.
Discovery of an Insect Neuroactive Helix Ring Peptide from Ant Venom
Authors: Barassé Valentine , Jouvensal Laurence , Boy Guillaume , Billet Arnaud , Ascoët Steven , Lefranc Benjamin , Leprince Jérôme , Dejean Alain , Lacotte Virginie , Rahioui Isabelle , Sivignon Catherine , Gaget Karen , Ribeiro Lopes Mélanie , Calevro Federica , Da Silva Pedro , Loth Karine , Paquet Françoise , Treilhou Michel , Bonnafé Elsa , Touchard Axel
Published: October 2023

Ants are among the most abundant terrestrial invertebrate predators on Earth. To overwhelm their prey, they employ several remarkable behavioral, physiological, and biochemical innovations, including an effective paralytic venom. Ant venoms are thus cocktails of toxins finely tuned to disrupt the physiological systems of insect prey. They have received little attention yet hold great promise for the discovery of novel insecticidal molecules. To identify insect-neurotoxins from ant venoms, we screened the paralytic activity on blowflies of nine synthetic peptides previously characterized in the venom of Tetramorium bicarinatum. We selected peptide U11, a 34-amino acid peptide, for further insecticidal, structural, and pharmacological experiments. Insecticidal assays revealed that U11 is one of the most paralytic peptides ever reported from ant venoms against blowflies and is also capable of paralyzing honeybees. An NMR spectroscopy of U11 uncovered a unique scaffold, featuring a compact triangular ring helix structure stabilized by a single disulfide bond. Pharmacological assays using Drosophila S2 cells demonstrated that U11 is not cytotoxic, but suggest that it may modulate potassium conductance, which structural data seem to corroborate and will be confirmed in a future extended pharmacological investigation. The results described in this paper demonstrate that ant venom is a promising reservoir for the discovery of neuroactive insecticidal peptides.
Transmission-Blocking Vaccines for Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis: New Progress and Yet New Challenges
Authors: Leite Jaqueline Costa , Gonçalves Ana Alice Maia , de Oliveira Diana Souza , Resende Lucilene Aparecida , Boas Diego Fernandes Vilas , Ribeiro Helen Silva , Pereira Diogo Fonseca Soares , da Silva Augusto Ventura , Mariano Reysla Maria da Silveira , Reis Pedro Campos Carvalhaes , Nakasone Eiji Nakasone , França-Silva João Carlos , Galdino Alexsandro Sobreira , Paes Paulo Ricardo de Oliveira , Melo Marília Martins , Dias Edelberto Santos , Chávez-Fumagalli Miguel Angel , da Silveira-Lemos Denise , Dutra Walderez Ornelas , Giunchetti Rodolfo Cordeiro
Published: October 2023

Dogs with visceral leishmaniasis play a key role in the transmission cycle of Leishmania infantum to humans in the urban environment. There is a consensus regarding the importance of developing a vaccine to control this disease. Despite many efforts to develop a protective vaccine against CVL, the ones currently available, Leish-tec® and LetiFend®, have limited effectiveness. This is due, in part, to the complexity of the immune response of the naturally infected dogs against the parasite and the complexity of the parasite transmission cycle. Thus, strategies, such as the development of a transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) already being applied to other vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue, would be an attractive alternative to control leishmaniasis. TBVs induce the production of antibodies in the vertebrate host, which can inhibit parasite development in the vector and/or interfere with aspects of vector biology, leading to an interruption of parasite transmission. To date, there are few TBV studies for CVL and other leishmaniasis forms. However, the few studies that exist show promising results, thus justifying the further development of this approach.
Real-World Effectiveness of the Varicella Vaccine among Children and Adolescents in Qatar: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Bibi Zahra , Nawaz Ahmed Daniyal , Al Kurbi Maha , Fakhroo Shahad , Ferih Khaled , Al-Jaber Noor , Alex Merin , Elawad Khalid H. , Chivese Tawanda , Zughaier Susu M.
Published: October 2023

Background: Despite the availability of a highly efficacious vaccine, varicella outbreaks are still being reported globally. In this study, we evaluated the real-world effectiveness of varicella vaccination among children between the ages of 1 and 18 years old during the period 2017 to 2019 in Qatar. Methods: A matched case–control study was conducted that included all reported varicella-infected children who visited the primary healthcare system in Qatar from January 2017 to December 2019. The cases were children under the age of 18 years who were clinically diagnosed with varicella. The controls were of the same age, who visited the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) during 2017–2019 with a skin rash where varicella infection was ruled out. The data on varicella vaccination for each participant were obtained from the electronic database in the PHCC during the study period. Results: We included 862 cases of varicella and 5454 matched controls, with a median age of 8 years (IQR 3–12); 47.4% were female and almost 50% were of Qatari nationality. The year 2019 had the highest varicella infection count with a total of 416 cases. The cases were less likely to be vaccinated against varicella, with approximately a quarter (25.6%) of cases and 36.7% of the controls having either one or two doses of the vaccine (p < 0.001). Compared to not being vaccinated, a single dose vaccination showed a 56% reduction in the odds of varicella infection [OR 0.44, 95% CI: 0.34–0.55; p < 0.000], and a two-dose vaccination showed an 86% reduction in the odds of varicella infection [OR 0.13, 95% CI: 0.06–0.29; p < 0.000]. Conclusion: In this multicultural setting, a two-dose varicella vaccination shows reasonable protection against varicella infection.
Design and Development of a Pilot-Scale Industrial Wastewater Treatment System with Plant Biomass and EDTA
Authors: Sayago Uriel Fernando Carreño
Published: October 2023

The impact generated by the indiscriminate disposal of heavy metals into the different bodies of water is not only environmental but also social due to the health effects it produces in several organisms, including ourselves. Therefore, treatment systems around the world are the subject of continuous research to find treatment systems that are economical, efficient, and easy to implement in the industries that generate these increasingly harmful impacts on society and the environment in general. One way to design and develop systems of water treatment is that which takes advantage of the waste generated, such as the waste from the E. crassipes plant. The conditions of this plant make it perfect due to its abundant biomass and important content of cellulose and hemicellulose. Nevertheless, in almost all the investigations that characterize the way in which the biomass of this plant adsorbs heavy metals, it does so under laboratory conditions, being very far from the reality of industrial discharges. The objective of this project is to design and develop a pilot-scale industrial wastewater treatment system with plant biomass and EDTA. Three pilot-scale systems were built with EDTA-modified biomass in different concentrations, giving the parameters of the design for the development of a system that can treat around 80 L of Chromium (VI) contaminated water. This treatment system with E. crassipes biomass and EDTA with proportions of 9:1 costs around USD 10, which is quite cheap compared to conventional ones.
Direct Probability Integral Method for Seismic Performance Assessment of Earth Dam Subjected to Stochastic Mainshock–Aftershock Sequences
Authors: Huang Weijie , Yang Yuanmin , Pang Rui , Jing Mingyuan
Published: October 2023

Studying the impact of mainshock–aftershock sequences on dam reliability is crucial for effective disaster prevention measures. With this purpose in mind, a new method for stochastic dynamic response analyses and reliability assessments of dams during seismic sequences has been proposed. Firstly, a simulation method of stochastic seismic sequences is described, considering the dependence between mainshock and aftershock based on Copula function. Then, a novel practical framework for stochastic dynamic analysis is established, combined with the improved point selection strategy and the direct probability integration method (DPIM). The DPIM is employed on a nonlinear system with one degree of freedom and compared with Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). The findings reveal that the method boasts exceptional precision and efficiency. Finally, the seismic performance of a practical dam was evaluated based on the above method, which not only accurately estimates the response probability distribution and dynamic reliability of the dam, but also greatly reduces the required calculations. Furthermore, the impact of aftershocks on dam seismic performance is initially evaluated through a probability approach in this research. It is found that seismic sequences will significantly increase the probability of earth dam failure compared with sequences of only mainshocks. In addition, the influence of aftershocks on reliability will further increase when the limit state is more stringent. Specifically, the novel analysis method proposed in this paper provides more abundant and objective evaluation indices, providing a dynamic reliability assessment for dams that is more effective than traditional evaluation methods.
Efeitos da pandemia de Covid-19 na saúde reprodutiva e no atendimento pré-natal
Authors: Lima Paola Tássia Freitas Mendonça , Murad Julia Messias , Sousa Luana , Madeira Fernanda Orlando Pompeu , Custódio Ana Beatriz Guimarães
Published: October 2023

O artigo propõe uma abordagem aprofundada sobre os efeitos da pandemia de COVID-19 na saúde reprodutiva e no atendimento pré-natal. A pandemia impôs inúmeros desafios ao sistema de saúde global, influenciando significativamente o acesso e a qualidade do atendimento relacionado à saúde reprodutiva e ao pré-natal. O acesso restrito a serviços essenciais de saúde, a transição abrupta para consultas virtuais e os atrasos em exames importantes emergem como questões críticas. Além disso, a ansiedade e o estresse relacionados à pandemia têm impacto negativo na saúde mental das gestantes, o que, por sua vez, pode afetar adversamente os desfechos da gravidez. Este artigo busca explorar esses aspectos, fornecendo uma análise detalhada dos problemas enfrentados, assim como propor possíveis soluções e estratégias para mitigar esses efeitos prejudiciais, visando a promoção da saúde materna e neonatal em tempos de crise sanitária global.
Integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Curriculum and Strengthening Teacher Training Programs to Align with NEP 2020
Authors: Radha L. , Arumugam J.
Published: October 2023

This article discusses the benefits of aligning the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to promote quality education and sustainable development in India’s higher education institutions. The NEP 2020 and the SDGs share common objectives related to promoting access to quality education, improving learning outcomes, and fostering innovation and research. By integrating the SDGs into their curricula and operations, higher education institutions in India can help their students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to contribute to sustainable development in India and globally. The article also provides examples of higher education institutions in India that have adopted the SDGs and incorporated them into their curricula and operations. The alignment of NEP 2020 with the SDGs is expected to further encourage the integration of the SDGs into higher education in India.
The E-Writing Approach to L2 Chinese Instruction: Clarifying Fundamental Principles and Core Concepts
Authors: Coss Matthew
Published: October 2023

Learners of Chinese as an additional language (L2) face the formidable challenge of achieving literacy in Chinese alongside developing oral-aural proficiency, all within the limited time constraints of classroom-based learning. Despite numerous efforts to determine the most effective approach to L2 Chinese character (Hanzi) instruction, a consensus remains elusive. This chapter argues that this consensus has not yet been reached primarily due to the lack of terminological clarity among L2 Chinese teaching professionals. In short, we are arguing past one another; we are not even talking about the same issue. Therefore, this chapter addresses the debate about L2 Hanzi pedagogy by (1) providing clear definitions for often ambiguous terms that have fueled ongoing debates in the field; (2) critically reviewing and identifying shortcomings and over-generalizations in long-standing arguments advocating for the indispensability of hand-writing in L2 Chinese learning, especially given its significant opportunity costs; (3) proposing e-writing as a promising alternative that caters to the needs of the majority of modern-day L2 Chinese learners; and (4) proposing a specific subset of potential supporting roles for hand-writing within the L2 Chinese curriculum. Based on the available evidence, this chapter concludes that ‘e-writing as primary’ (电写为主，手写为辅) is the ideal primary approach for the majority of L2 Chinese learners in the 21st century.