bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protocolo de infiltração no aparelho locomotor
Authors: Sampaio Romão Augusto Alves Filgueira , Paiva José Gerardo Araújo
Published: December 2023

Introdução: O uso da infiltração no aparelho locomotor para benefício de pacientes portadores de doenças reumáticas remonta à década de 1950. Os corticosteroides são os fármacos mais usados nos procedimentos de infiltração intra e periarticulares. Seus efeitos se devem às suas propriedades anti-inflamatórias, antiproliferativas e de atrofia de sinóvia. Este protocolo foi desenvolvido para melhor padronização das infiltrações intra e periarticulares às cegas com uso de corticosteroides no Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio da Universidade Federal do Ceará. A padronização das técnicas objetiva homogeneizar resultados de segurança e eficácia de tais procedimentos. Metodologia: Neste protocolo são discutidas as recomendações gerais sobre infiltrações articulares, indicações, contraindicações, técnicas de realização de procedimentos e os cuidados pós-infiltração. Resultados: Médicos assistentes e médicos residentes do Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio passaram a seguir as instruções deste protocolo contribuindo para a padronização de terapias intra e periarticulares no hospital. Conclusão: As infiltrações com corticosteroides no aparelho locomotor podem beneficiar pacientes com certas condições reumáticas. A padronização das técnicas traz resultados de segurança e eficácia mais homogêneos.
Climate change - mediated atmospheric 210Po and 210Pb distribution: How significant can it be for the inhalation dose to humans?
Authors: Uddin Saif , Gorgun Aysun U. , Fowler Scott W. , Behbehani Montaha , Behbehani Montaha , Habibi Nazima , Filizok Isik , Al-Murad Mohammad
Published: December 2023

The concentration of 210Po and 210Pb in vegetation, and their transfer from soil to vegetation and via aerosol deposited on foliage are well established. The available data show significantly higher levels of these radionuclides in ash from forest fires and aerosols downwind from industrial sites. The climate change-induced hot and dry conditions promote the spread of forest fires, which burn huge areas. On average, over 10 million hectares are reportedly lost annually. Large-scale forest fires and fossil-fuel and coal-operated Power and Desalination Plants are very likely to result in the dispersion of 210Pb and 210Po into the regional aerosol; such an effect has already been observed due to fires in Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia, which have led to the dispersion of 137Cs over large parts of Europe. We have measured elevated levels in Kuwait, and similar observations have been reported from Portugal. The higher levels of 210Po in PM2.5 raise a serious concern about an increased inhalation dose humans could receive. Our estimate shows that humans in areas affected by forest fires might receive a dose equivalent to 2 µSv d-1, which is significantly higher than 0.099 µSv d-1, the dose a person gets from smoking a packet of cigarettes daily. We propose that size-fractionated aerosol sampling should be taken up in regions affected by forest fires and industrial activities that add 210Po to the atmosphere in order to obtain a robust inhalation dose assessment and issue informed advisories to the public.
Protracted transformation: Bulgaria in search of a new path forward
Authors: Podchasov N.
Published: December 2023

The book focuses on the specific patterns and features of Bulgaria’s modern development. The process and the results of the country’s adaptation to its new environment in the first years after abandoning socialist path, at the preparation stage leading to the EU ascension and later as a member of the European Union are analysed. The author identifies medium-term trends of Bulgarian politics and presents his own views on the political processes and their periodization. The book explores relations between Bulgaria and its key geopolitical actors as well as Sophia’s policy in the Balkan region and its interactions with neighbouring countries. The publication is intended for the agencies responsible for Russian-Bulgarian relations, as well as for researchers, teachers and students and for wider audience of readers interested in Bulgaria.
The UK in Multilateral Military-Political Structures
Authors: Aleshin A.
Published: December 2023

UK’s foreign policy interests are global in nature due to place the county has in the world economy and finance, science and technology, especially after its withdrawal from the EU. This country has retained deep economic and political ties with former colonies and it controls a number of strategic territories around the world. At the same time, in the context of the world order transformation and a more conflict-ridden international environment, the UK does not have sufficient potential to single-handedly defend certain allies or partners. In addition, significant restrictions on the country’s foreign policy capabilities are imposed by the asymmetrical ‘special relations’ with the US. As a result, the British leadership assigns a special role to multilateral military-political structures (MMPSs), which contribute to the collective increase in the defence potential of their participants. The article examines MMPSs with the UK participation, classifies them and examines their place in the structure of British foreign policy in a time of world order transformation. It is substantiated that multilateral formats allow the UK to achieve more influence than bilateral relations, to act beyond its capabilities and remain an active player not only in Europe, but also globally, relying on the ‘special relations’ with the US. MMPSs allow not only to use available resources more efficiently, but also to pursue a policy of containing competitors such as Russia and China, as well as to project ‘soft power’. The phenomenon of international relations has been studied from the point of view of the international relations theories. It is noted that the nature, essence and functions of MMPSs are explained differently in accordance with different theories. The basic characteristics of the main theoretical approaches are identified, the corresponding functions of the MMPSs are analyzed and applied to the British case. It is substantiated that the combination of theoretical approaches when studying MMPSs encounters serious inter-paradigmatic contradictions, and therefore the development of an appropriate middle-level theory seems to have potential.
The UK Climate Change Policy Before Brexit Referendum
Authors: Andreeva T.
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to the problem of the UK policy on containment of global climate change mitigation since the 1990s to the date (June 23, 2016) of referendum about the UK exit from the European Union (Brexit). The UK engagement in solving the climate problem is considered through time: starting from the first approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions made by the conservative cabinet of John Major (1990–1997), via the attempts to outline the ways to effectively cut greenhouse gas emissions by domestic efforts while meeting the EU commitments and adhering to the United Nations climate agreement (Kyoto protocol) by the labour cabinets of Tony Blair (1997–2007) and Gordon Brown (2007–2010), and up to making concrete steps done by David Cameron – Nike Klegg coalition cabinet (2010–2015) and the conservative cabinet of D. Cameron (2015–2016) in order to implement international and domestic ‘green agenda’ during the UK recovery from a deep recession and afterwards. The problem is scrutinized with the use of a vast number of official documents and White papers on the climate change policy of British governments, the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change, the UK Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Foreign Office. The article shows that the implementation of energy efficiency programs and the diversification of the British energy sector towards rapid application of the low-carbon technologies (the nuclear power and the renewable energy sources) were the main driving force behind the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions as an important part of the domestic and international efforts for global climate change mitigation. The government support to the UK fast-growing green economy is seen in the article as the way to create the British and global low-carbon economy of the future.
The Implications of Sanctions on Civilian Mental Health and Quality of Life Iranian: An Overview
Authors: Tahan Mohammad , Azari Farank , Saleem Tamkeen
Published: December 2023

background: The Islamic Republic of Iran has been under sanctions since 1979. These sanctions were further reinforced between the years 2005 and 2012. This study utilizes available data from Iran post-sanctions to review the impact of economic sanctions on both the mental health and the quality of life of Iranian citizens.Methods: A comprehensive scoping review was conducted to identify studies examining the impact of sanctions on health in Iran. Searches were initiated in 2012 using PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Scientific Information Database (Iranian Database) with keywords such as sanctions, implications, mental health, quality of life, civilian mental health, and Iran. Subsequent to the screening process, secondary reports and letters to the editor were excluded. Only original studies—those collecting data via observation, interviews, surveys, experiments, or literature reviews—were retained for analysis. In addition to these search strategies, reference scanning was undertaken to identify additional articles pertinent to the scope of the current study. This thorough approach facilitated the discovery of relevant and significant articles exploring the effects of sanctions against Iran on the mental health and overall well-being of its civilian population. Following the search, duplicate articles were meticulously identified and removed by the authors. Data were subsequently extracted and summarized, focusing on study characteristics and the observed effects of sanctions on civilian mental health and quality of life in Iran.Result: Out of 165 items identified in the preliminary search, ten articles met the inclusion criteria. These selected articles highlighted the pronounced effects of sanctions on various health-related domains.Conclusion: Since 2012, Iran has been subject to intensified sanctions. There is evidence to suggest that the economic sanctions, imposed by Western nations, and have exerted a negative and detrimental impact on the health of individual Iranians.
Efficient Waste Management via Tuning Plasma Properties in Radio Frequency Inductively Coupled Plasma
Authors: Aldeeb Mustafa , Abu Darda Sharif , Damideh Vahid , Hassen Isaac , A.Gabbar Hossam
Published: December 2023

In the last ten years, plasma waste treatment has gained increasing prominence as a technology in response to growing challenges in waste disposal and the recognition of opportunities for generating valuable by-products. The efficiency and outcomes of this process are intricately linked to the characteristics of the plasma involved, such as plasma enthalpy and heat flux. We employed an experimental radio frequency inductively coupled plasma (RF-ICP) torch operating at atmospheric pressure to generate plasma. Utilizing optical emission spectroscopy (OES), we measured plasma parameters, specifically the effective electron temperature (Teff) and plasma density (ne), while varying argon gas flow rates and RF powers. Our investigations revealed that both flow rate and RF power exert significant control over plasma parameters, and we observed an unusual phenomenon within this range of discharge pressures. Consequently, both the plasma's enthalpy and the heat flux it generates are influenced by variations in both flow rate and RF power.
Vibration Energy Harvesting from Plates by Means of Piezoelectric Dynamic Vibration Absorbers
Authors: Tonan Michele , Pasetto Alberto , Doria Alberto
Published: December 2023

In this paper the possibility of harvesting energy from the vibrations of a plate is analyzed. The harvester takes the form of a cantilever dynamic vibration absorber equipped with a piezoelectric layer and tuned by means of a tip mass to the first mode of vibration of the plate. A mathematical model of the coupled system composed of the plate and the harvester is presented. The validity of the proposed harvester is proved by means of simulations carried out with the modal expansions approach. Simulation results highlighting the effect of harvester tuning and location are presented as well. Then the validity of the harvester is confirmed by experimental tests carried out both with a concentrated impulsive load and with a distributed pressure load. Simulations and experimental tests show that the cantilever piezoelectric dynamic vibration absorber generates open circuit voltage an order of magnitude larger than the one generated by the same piezoelectric layer when directly bonded to the plate surface.
Online Reviews Classification and Summarization: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Abdullah Saima , Ashraf Humaira , Jhanjhi NZ
Published: December 2023

The classification and summarization of online reviews using machine learning and deep learningbased approaches are the subject of this systematic literature review. Consumers, companies, and researchers can now find vital information from online reviews. Automatically categorizing and summarizing these reviews can offer useful information and facilitate decision-making. The purpose of this study is to offer a thorough overview of the current methodology, approaches, and developments in this area. The review concentrates on machine learning-based methods for categorization and summarizing tasks, highlighting their advantages, drawbacks, and new developments. This systematic review provides insights into the most recent methodologies and indicates prospective directions for further investigation by synthesizing the data from a wide range of pertinent research publications
Domain Specific Dictionary between Human and Machine Languages
Authors: Islam Md Saiful , Liu Fei
Published: December 2023

In the realm of artificial intelligence, knowledge graphs have become a fascinating area of research. Relationships between entities are depicted through a structural framework in knowledge graphs. In this paper, we propose to build a domain-specific medicine dictionary (DSMD) based on the principles of knowledge graphs. Our dictionary is composed of structured triples, where each entity is defined as a concept, and these concepts are interconnected through relationships. This comprehensive dictionary boasts more than 348,000 triples, encompassing over 20,000 medicine brands and 1,500 generic medicines. It offers a groundbreaking approach to storing and accessing medical data. Our dictionary facilitates various functionalities, including medicine brand information extraction, brand-specific queries, as well as queries involving two words or question answering. We anticipate that our dictionary will serve a broad spectrum of users, catering to both human users, such as diverse range of healthcare professionals as well as AI applications.
Application of Liquid Chromatography for the Analysis of Organic UV Filters In Environmental and Marine Biota Matrices
Authors: Nieddu Maria , Pasciu Valeria , Demontis Maria Piera , Baralla Elena
Published: December 2023

Sunscreens are topical preparations containing one or more compounds that protect humans from ultraviolet (UV) light. This review focuses on analytical methods, particularly liquid chromatography, aimed at identifying and determining UV filters (UVFs) in environmental and marine biota matrices. A literature review was done using NIH (PubMed and Medline), FDA and EPA databases, Google Scholar, and Federal Regulations. This retrospective literature review is focused on the last five years. UVFs quantification in environmental and biological matrices showed a wide array of methods where liquid chromatography is predominant. The scientific literature identified a large variety of analytical methodologies that are compared in this review, to evaluate the better results in terms of limits of quantification and the possibility to identify as many analytes as possible simultaneously.
Stereoselective Analysis of the Antiseizure Activity of Fenfluramine and Norfenfluramine in Mice: Is l-Norfenfluramine a Better Follow-Up Compound to Racemic-Fenfluramine?
Authors: Erenburg Natalia , Perucca Emilio , Bechard Jeff , Dube Celine , Weishaupt Nina , Sherrington Robin , Bialer Meir
Published: December 2023

Objectives: To investigate the comparative antiseizure activity of the l-enantiomers of d,l-fenfluramine and d,l-norfenfluramine and to evaluate the relationship between their concentration in plasma and brain and anticonvulsant activity.

Methods: d,l-Fenfluramine, d,l-norfenfluramine and their individual enantiomers were evaluated in the mouse maximal electroshock seizure (MES) test. d,l-Fenfluramine, d,l-norfenfluramine and their individual l-enantiomers were also assessed in the DBA/2 mouse audiogenic seizure model. All compounds were administered intraperitoneally. Brain and plasma concentrations of the test compounds in DBA/2 mice were quantified and correlated with anticonvulsant activity.

Results: In the MES test, fenfluramine, norfenfluramine and their enantiomers showed comparable anticonvulsant activity, with ED50 values between 5.1 and 14.8 mg/kg. In the audiogenic seizure model, l-norfenfluramine was 9 times more potent than d,l-fenfluramine and 15 times more potent than l-fenfluramine based on ED50 (1.2 vs 10.2 and 17.7 mg/kg, respectively). Brain concentrations of all compounds were about 20-fold higher than in plasma. Based on brain EC50 values, l-norfenfluramine was 7 times more potent than d,l-fenfluramine and 13 times more potent than l-fenfluramine (1940 vs 13,200 and 25,400 ng/g, respectively). EC50 values for metabolically formed d,l-norfenfluramine and l-norfenfluramine were similar to brain EC50 values of the same compounds administered as such, suggesting that, in the audiogenic seizure model, the metabolites were responsible for the antiseizure activity of the parent compounds.

Significance: Because of the evidence linking d-norfenfluramine to d,l-fenfluramine to cardiovascular and metabolic adverse effects, their l-enantiomers could potentially be safer follow-up compounds to d,l-fenfluramine. We found that in the models tested, l-fenfluramine and l-norfenfluramine were as active as the corresponding racemates. Based on the results in DBA/2 mice and other considerations, l-norfenfluramine appears to be a particularly attractive candidate for further evaluation as a novel, enantiomerically pure antiseizure medication.
MiniMovers: An initial pilot and feasibility study to investigate the impact of a mobile application on children’s motor skills and parent support for physical development
Authors: Zhang Yajie , Wainwright Nalda , Goodway Jacqueline , John Amanda , Stevenson Anna , Thomas Kirsty Edwards , Jenkins Sean , Layas Fatma , Piper Kate
Published: December 2023

The MiniMovers (MM) APP combines motor development theory with creativity expertise and has been designed to provide parents with developmentally appropriate activities to support children’s motor skills. This study investigates how MiniMovers activities enabled parents to support their children’s physical development. Families participated in an 8-week MM programme of activities from the MM APP (Mini, Mighty and Mega levels), with pre- and post-intervention data collected. Mixed research methods were applied among children (N=8; aged 21-79 months) and their parents, providing quantitative analysis on children’s performance (running, throwing, jumping, kicking, balancing and catching), as well as qualitative analysis on parents’ attitude and behaviour (co-activity questionnaire, two-weekly feedback surveys and interviews). Kinematic data and kinetic data were captured using marker-based motion capture system and a force plate, respectively. For catching, children at Mighty and Mega levels were also tested using eye-tracking glasses. Videos were recorded for developmental stage evaluation. The results showed that five children improved across different ages, with two children improving in almost all tasks, and three children who had more tasks that improved than did not. Parents reported increased levels of co-activity, increased children’s enjoyment, independence, and confidence. This pilot study provides support for the research and development of MM App and suggests a need for more research into the use of APPs to support in home activities among families with young children.
Influence of Primary Coma on the Tightly Focusing Characteristics of Circular Basis Hybrid Order Poincaré Sphere Beams
Authors: Pal Sushanta Kumar , Singh Rakesh Kumar , Senthilkumaran Paramasivam
Published: December 2023

We study the tight focusing properties of generic bright and dark HyOPS beams in the presence of primary coma. The role of the polarization singularity index and handedness of the polarization of the HyOPS beams on the focused structure has been discussed. Results have been presented for the total intensity, component intensities, and component phase distributions for left-, and right-handed bright and dark star and lemon types singularities. The presence of primary coma distorted the focal plane intensity distributions for both positive and negative index generic C-points. Coma is known to disturb the circular symmetry of the focal plane intensity distribution. Similarly in tight focusing polarization is known to disturb the symmetry. Therefore, a beam with structured and inhomogeneous polarization distribution tightly focused under the influence of coma is a fit case to study. It is found that the presence of primary coma aberration in the focusing system produces a positional shift of the high-intensity peaks and a reduction of the intensity on one side of the center. As the strength of the primary coma increases, the focal plane intensity distributions shift more and more toward the right from the initial position. Unlike the scalar vortex case, in the case of HyOPS beams, the focal plane intensity distribution undergoes rotation, as the helicity of the HyOPS beams is inverted, in addition to shifting. All the component phase distributions are found to be embedded with phase vortices of charge ±1.
Attachment of Proteolytic Enzyme Inhibitors to Vascular Prosthesis – an Analysis of Binding and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Mordzińska-Rak Aleksandra , Szałapata Katarzyna , Wydrych Jerzy , Gagoś Mariusz , Jarosz-Wilkołazka Anna
Published: December 2023

Prosthetic infections are associated with high morbidity, mortality, and relapse rates making them still a serious problem for implantology. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common bacterial pathogens causing prosthetic infections. In response to the increasing rate of bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics, the work proposed a method of combating pathogenic microorganisms by modifying the surface of synthetic polymeric biomaterials using proteolytic enzyme inhibitors (serine protease inhibitors - 4-(2-aminoethyl)benzenesulfonyl fluoride hydrochloride and puromycin). While using techniques based on immobilization of biologically active molecules, it is important to monitor changes occurring on the surface of the modified biomaterial, where spectroscopic techniques (e.g. FTIR) are ideal. The ATR-FTIR measurements demonstrated that the immobilization of both inhibitors caused large structural changes on the surface of the tested vascular prostheses (polyester or polytetrafluoroethylene) and showed that they were covalently bonded to the surface of the biomaterials. Next, the bactericidal and antibiofilm activities of the tested serine protease inhibitors were determined using the CLSM microscopic technique with fluorescent staining. During LIVE/DEAD analyses, a significant decrease in the formation of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm after exposure to selected concentrations of native inhibitors (0.02-0.06 mg/mL for puromycin and 0.2-1 mg/mL for 4-(2-aminoethyl)benzenesulfonyl fluoride hydrochloride was demonstrated.
Challenges and Opportunities in Mobile Network Security for Vertical Applications: A Survey
Authors: Sobrinho Álvaro , Vilarim Matheus , Barbosa Amanda , Candeia Gurjão Edmar , Santos Danilo F. S. , Valadares Dalton , Dias da Silva Leandro
Published: December 2023

Ensuring the security of vertical applications in fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication systems and previous generations is crucial. These systems must prioritize maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of services and data. Examples of vertical applications include smart cities, smart transportation, public services, Industry 4.0, smart grids, smart health, and smart agriculture. Each vertical application has specific security requirements and faces unique threats within the mobile network environment. Thus, it is essential to implement comprehensive and robust security measures. This approach helps minimize the attack surface and effectively manage risks. This survey thoroughly examines mobile networks and their security challenges in vertical applications, shedding light on associated threats and potential solutions. Our study considers the interplay between security considerations in 5G, legacy networks, and vertical applications. We emphasize the challenges, opportunities, and promising directions for future research in this field and the importance of securing vertical applications in the evolving landscape of mobile technology.
High-Entropy Diborides – Silicon Carbide Composites by Reactive and Non-reactive Spark Plasma Sintering: A Comparative Study
Authors: Pakhomova Ekaterina , Cao Giacomo , Orrù Roberto , Garroni Sebastiano , Ferro Paolo , Licheri Roberta
Published: December 2023

The Reactive Spark Plasma Sintering (R-SPS) method is compared in this work with the two-steps SHS-SPS route, based on combination of the Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis (SHS) with the SPS process, for the fabrication of dense (Hf0.2Mo0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2)B2-SiC and (Hf0.2Mo0.2Ti0.2Ta0.2Zr0.2)B2-SiC ceramics. A multiphasic and inhomogeneous product, containing various borides, is obtained at 2000°C/20min by R-SPS, from transition metals, B4C and Si. In contrast, if the same precursors are first reacted by SHS, and then processed by SPS under the optimized condition of 1800°C/20min, the desired ceramics are successfully attained. Both High-Entropy-Boride/SiC products display densities > 97%, uniform microstructures and contained only small amounts of residual oxides (<2.4 wt.%). The presence of SiC makes the sintering temperature milder, i.e. 150°C below to that needed by the corresponding additive-free system. Fracture toughness is also markedly improved, particularly when considering the Nb-containing system processed at 1800°C/20min, whereas KIC progressively decreases (from 7.35 to 5.36 MPa m1/2) as the SPS conditions become more severe. SiC addition is found to inhibit the volatilization of metal oxides like MoO3 formed during oxidation experiments, thus avoiding mass loss in the ceramics. The benefits above also likely take advantage of the fact that the two composite constituents are synthesized in parallel, according to the SHS-SPS approach, rather than being produced separately and combined subsequently, so that strong interfaces between them are formed.
A Meta-Analysis of Sustainable Fashion Studies Since the Rana Plaza Collapse and Its Relation to the SDGs
Authors: Nagano Aki
Published: December 2023

The collapse of the Rana Plaza factory profoundly affected the fashion industry and society, serving as a reminder of the importance of social issues in academics and practice. Some scholars have pointed out that academia lacks fashion studies on social issues that are more prevalent in developing countries. Therefore, this study aims to determine a meta-analysis of sustainable fashion research since the Rana Plaza collapse and how it aligns with the United Nations' sustainable development goals (SDGs). The applied method is automated content analysis, and seven academic agendas were extracted by analyzing sustainable fashion literature. The findings showed that academic scholarship has covered various topics, ranging from design to social issues, whereas the results have not clarified the relationship between social issues and developing countries. The findings also show that SDG 12 stood out, which is responsible consumption and production. Aside from the production community, consumers need to be aware of socio-environmental problems to make harmonious lifestyle choices with nature. Furthermore, scholars need to align themselves with an easier-to-understand concept of sustainable fashion to make a public appeal for it as a societal importance.
Luminescence of Binary Doped Silica Aerogel Powders: A Two-Step Sol-Gel Approach
Authors: Shandurkov Dimitar , Danchova Nina , Spassov Tony , Petrov Vesselin , Gutzov Stoyan
Published: December 2023

In this study, we report a novel synthesis of hydrophobic silica aerogel powder composites, functionalized and binary-doped with [Tb(phen)₂](NO₃)₃ and [Eu(phen)₂](NO₃)₃ nanocrystals, employing a two-step sol-gel methodology. The investigation delves into the structural elucidation, optical properties and thermal conductivity of these functionalized Tb(III)-Eu(III) composites. Our analysis encompasses diffuse reflectance spectra, along with excitation and luminescence spectra, highlighting the quantum yields of composites with varying chemical composition. Remarkably, these samples exhibit a strong luminescence, with distinct hues of red or green color upon the specific doping type and level. The detailed examination of excitation spectra and quantum yields unequivocally establishes robust energy transfer mechanisms from the 1,10-phenanthroline molecule to the lanthanide ions. Notably, our study uncovers a Tb³⁺→Eu³⁺ energy transfer phenomenon within the binary functionalized samples, providing compelling evidence for a structural formation process occurring within the mesoporous framework of the aerogel powders.
Reapplication Potential of Historic Pb-Zn Slag with Regard to Zero Waste Principles
Authors: Radulović Dragan , Terzić Anja , Stojanović Jovica , Jovanović Vladimir , Todorović Dejan Čedomir , Ivošević Branislav Božidar
Published: December 2023

Smelting used to be less efficient in the past; therefore, wastes obtained from historical processing at smelter plants usually contain certain quantities of valuable metals. Upon the extraction of useful metal elements, metallurgical slag can be repurposed as an alternative mineral raw material in the building sector. A case study was conducted, which included an investigation of the physico-chemical, mineralogical, and microstructural properties of Pb-Zn slag found at the historic landfill near the Topilnica Veles smelter in North Macedonia. The slag was sampled using drill holes. The mineralogical and microstructural analysis revealed that the Pb-Zn slag is a very complex and inhomogeneous alternative raw material with utilizable levels of metals, specifically Pb (2.3 wt%), Zn (7.1 wt%), and Ag (27.5 ppm). Crystalline mineral phases wurtzite, sphalerite, galena, cerussite, akermanite, wüstite, monticellite, franklinite, and zincite were identified in the analyzed samples. The slag’s matrix consisted of alumino-silicates, amorphous silicates, and mixtures of spinel and silicates. Because the extraction of Pb, Zn, and Ag has economic potential, the first reutilization stage will be to convert metal concentrates into their collective concentrate, from which the maximum amount of these valuable elements may be taken out. This will include combination of gravity concentration and separation techniques. The next step is to assess the Pb-Zn slag’s potential applications in civil engineering based on its mineralogical and physico-mechanical properties. Alumino-silicates, amorphous silicates, and mixtures of spinel and silicates present in Pb-Zn slag, which contain high concentrations of SiO2, Al2O3, CaO, and Fe2O3, are suitable for use in cementitious building composites. The goal of this research is to suggest a solution for closing the circle of slag's reutilization in terms of Zero Waste principles, so it is critical to thoroughly investigate the material and establish methods and preparation processes, as well as ways of concentrating useful components into commercial products.
A Thermoelectric Polymer Field-effect Transistor via Iodine-doped P3HT
Authors: Norman Joseph , Sun Sam-Shajing
Published: December 2023

Doping can alter the electronic and thermoelectric attributes of an organic semiconductor system. These alterations can enable viable tunable devices that have applications in temperature sensing for environmental controls. Here we demonstrate a dual-modulation organic field-effect transistor (OFET) where temperature effectively modulates the current-voltage characteristics of the OFET and gate voltage modulates the thermoelectric properties of the active layer. Poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) was utilized as the host donor polymer, iodine was utilized as the dopant acceptor molecule Finished devices were characterized by a semiconductor analyzer system with temperature controlled by two thermoelectric cooling plates. The doping of iodine in the range of 0.25% to 0.5% mole ratio with respect to the P3HT exhibited the greatest on-off ratio of the investigated dopant concentrations. Iodine doping concentrations of 0.5% mole ratio or less can greatly improve the thermoelectric properties of a binary P3HT-based system and the current-voltage performance of the dual-modulation device.
Net Radiation Drives Evapotranspiration Dynamics in a Bottomland Hardwood Forest in the Southeastern United States: Insights from Multi-modeling Approaches
Authors: Kandel Bibek , Bhattacharjee Joydeep
Published: December 2023

Evapotranspiration (ET) is a major component of water budget in Bottomland Hardwood Forests (BHF) and is driven by a complex intertwined suite of meteorological variables. The understanding of these interdependencies leading to seasonal variations in ET is crucial in better informing water resource management in the region. We used a structural equation modeling approach to analyze the drivers of ET using Eddy covariance water and heat flux data collected from a BHF, located in the Russel Sage Wildlife Management Area (RSWMA). It consists of mature closed-canopy deciduous hardwood trees with an average canopy height of 27 m. Factor analysis was used to characterize the shared variance among drivers and path analysis was used to quantify independent contributions of individual drivers. In our results, ET and net radiation (Rn) showed similar variability patterns with Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and temperature in Spring, Summer, and Autumn seasons while they differ in Winter season. The path analysis shows that Rn has the strongest influence on ET variations via direct and indirect pathways. In the deciduous forests like BHFs, our results suggest ET is more energy-dependent during growing season (Spring and Summer) and early non-growing season (Autumn) while more temperature-dependent during winter season.
NIR Spectroscopy as an Alternative to Thermogravimetric Analyzer for Biomass Proximate Analysis: Comparison of Chip and Ground Biomass Models
Authors: Shrestha Bijendra , Posom Jetsada , Sirisomboon Panmanas , Shrestha Bim Prasad , Funke Axel
Published: December 2023

A non-destructive analysis of proximate parameters (moisture content, MC; volatile matter, VM; fixed carbon, FC; and ash content) for a variety of chipped and ground biomasses was investigated through a combination of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) with partial least squares regression (PLSR). In this study, the thermogravimetric method was employed as a tool to determine the proximate analysis data of biomass samples through TG and DTG curves, which were generated by tracking changes in biomass mass loss over time or temperature. NIRS non−destructively scanned the chipped biomass in diffuse reflectance while ground biomass using transflectance mode, covering the wavenumber range of 3594.87 to 12,489.48 cm−1. The PLSR−based models: Full−PLSR, genetic algorithm (GA)−PLSR, successive projection algorithm (SPA)−PLSR, the spectral multi−preprocessing (MP) PLSR− 5 range method, and the MP PLSR−3 range method were developed. Model performance was assessed, compared, and selected based on the coefficient of determination in the prediction set (R2P), root mean square error in the validation set (RMSEP), and the ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD). Based on the comprehensive analysis of model performance, MC and FC models of chip biomass have demonstrated satisfactory performance which makes it applicable cautiously in any application, including research. The optimum models for MC and FC in chip biomass were constructed using GA−PLSR with 2nd derivative and Full−PLSR with a constant offset, resulting in R2P values of 0.8654 and 0.8773, RMSEP values of 0.85% and 2.12%, and RPD values of 2.9 and 3.0, respectively. Other parameters such as MC and FC in ground biomass as well as VM and ash content in both chip and ground biomass were found suitable for rough screening. The sensitivity of the selected model was assessed by calculating the limit of quantification (LOQ), and the results indicated that the calculated LOQ values for VM in both chip and ground biomass and FC in chip biomass are lower than the minimum reference values used during model development, signifying a high level of sensitivity. However, for the remaining parameters, the LOQ values surpass the established minimum reference value, suggesting the model could not predict the future samples with reference value lower than the calibration range. Nevertheless, enhancing the models by incorporation an ample number of representative biomass samples and consistently validating the models with unknown samples is imperative to ensure accurate predictions.
Effect of Physiotherapy in Early Preterm Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Based on the Framework of the International Classification of Function
Authors: Çömük Balcı Nilay , Takçı Şahin , Akın Mustafa Ali
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Physiotherapy exercises administered to preterm infants in the NICU can enhance motor skills and expedite the discharge process for infants born before 30 weeks of gestational age. The research delves into the influence of physiotherapy programs on these preterm infants' activity and participation levels. Methods: The intervention group received a one-month physiotherapy program including massage around the mouth, mobilization and weight-bearing exercises, and massage therapy for the extremities, while the control group did not. The motor skills were evaluated by the Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP), Dubowitz Neurological examination, and Preterm Oral Feeding Readiness Scales (POFRAS). Results: There was a significant difference in The TIMP, Dubowitz Optimal Score, Type of Non-Invasive Ventilation, TIMP Range, and POFRAS scores in the physiotherapy group rather than the control group (p<0.05). There were no differences in the length of stay in the NICU, respiration rate, heart rate, body temperature, oxygen saturation, body weight on the evaluation day, body weight at discharge, head circumference at discharge between the groups (p>0.05) Discussion: We conclude that physiotherapy in NICU improves the motor outcomes, activity and participation in preterm infants rather than the body functions and structure like vital signs and infants’ body weight.
Sedimentary Processes and Instability on the Mississippi River Delta Front near the Shipwreck of the SS Virginia
Authors: Figueredo Nathan , Bentley Sam , Chaytor Jason , Xu Kehui , Jafari Navid , Georgiou Ioannis Y. , Damour Melanie , Duxbury Jeffrey , Obelcz Jeffrey , Maloney Jillian
Published: December 2023

Sediment cores were collected from a mudflow lobe (80 m water depth) offshore of the Mississippi River’s Southwest Pass in 2017 to better understand the sedimentology near the lobe entraining the SS Virginia shipwreck (sunk by a German U-Boat in 1942) and surrounding Mississippi River Delta Front. Core analyses included 210Pb/137Cs geochronology, granulometry, and X-radiography. Sediment accumulation rates (SAR) calculated from excess 210Pb activity in multicores are 0.22–0.29 cm/yr at seabed depths less than 20 cm and 0.29–0.51 cm/year at depths greater than 20 cm. 137Cs accumulation rates are ~0.15 to ~ 0.37 cm/year since 1954 and 1963 respectively. Sediment accumulation rates from 210Pb and 137Cs geochronology and indicators of relative sedimentation and bioturbation from X-radiographs suggest that rates of sediment accumulation near Virginia have declined since ca. the mid-20th century. This may be explained by the multi-decade downslope mass transport of the mudflow lobe in which the shipwreck is embedded, and decreases in sediment supply delivered offshore from the Mississippi River. Mass-transport calculations of the Virginia lobe derived from core properties and published lobe advection rates suggest downslope mass transport is far higher than sediment resupply from the Mississippi River, consistent with recent studies of delta retreat.
Is It Time to Alter Standard of Care for Iron Deficiency /Iron Deficiency Anemia in Reproductive-Age Women?
Authors: Bellad Mrutyunjaya B. , Patted Anmol Suresh , Derman Richard
Published: December 2023

Two billion people worldwide suffer from anemia with reproductive-age women being disproportionately affected. Iron plays a crucial role in cellular function and impacts cognition, physical function, and quality of life. Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are associated with adverse effects on pregnancy and fetal development. Oral iron supplementation has been the standard treatment for IDA for decades often producing sub-optimal outcomes. Many babies are still being born with ID and suffer adverse sequelae due to inadequate iron levels in the mothers. Is it time to consider broad scale-up of parenteral iron as a new standard of care?
The advantage of the 5G network for enhancing the Internet of Things and the evolution of the 6G network
Authors: Gkagkas George , Vergados Dimitrios J. , Michalas Angelos , Dossis Michael
Published: December 2023

Internet of Things (IoT) is what we have as a great breakthrough in 5G network. Although 5G network can support several Internet of Everything (IoE) services, 6G is the network to fully support that. This paper is a survey research presenting the 5G and IoT technology and the challenges coming, with the 6G network being the new alternative network coming to solve these issues and limitations we are facing with 5G. A reference to the Control Plane and User Plane Separation (CUPS) is made with IPv4 and IPv6 addressing which is the foundation of the Network Slicing for the 5G core network. Comparing to other related papers, we provide in depth information on how the Internet of Things (IoT) is going to affect our lifes and how this technology is handled as Internet of Everything (IoE) in 6G network. Finally, a full reference is made to the 6G network with its challenges comparing to the 5G network.
Re-examination of the Effect of Pairing Gaps on Gamow-Teller Strength Distributions and $\beta$-decay Rates
Authors: Nabi Jameel-Un , Riaz Muhammad , Mehmood Arslan
Published: December 2023

$\beta$-decay is one of the key factors to understand the $r$-process and evolution of massive stars. The Gamow-Teller (GT) transitions drive the $\beta$-decay process. We employ the proton-neutron quasiparticle random phase approximation (pn-QRPA) model to calculate terrestrial and stellar $\beta$-decay rates for 50 top-ranked nuclei possessing astrophysical significance according to a recent survey \cite{Nab21}. The model parameters of the pn-QRPA model effect the predicated results of $\beta$-decay. The current study investigates the effect of nucleon-nucleon pairing gaps on charge-changing transitions and the associated $\beta$ decay rates. Three different values of pairing gaps, namely TF, 3TF and 5TF, were used in our investigation. It was concluded that both GT strength distributions and half-lives are sensitive to pairing gap values. The 3TF pairing gap scheme, in our chosen nuclear model, resulted in best prediction with around 80$\%$ of the calculated half-lives within a factor 10 of the measured ones. The 3TF pairing scheme also led to calculation of biggest $\beta$-decay rates in stellar matter.
Comorbidity genes of Alzheimer’s disease and type 2 diabetes associated with memory and cognitive function
Authors: Cho Seong Beom
Published: December 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are comorbidities that result from the sharing of common genes. The molecular background of comorbidities can provide clues for the development of treatment and management strategies. Here, the common genes involved in the development of the two diseases and in memory and cognitive function are reviewed. Network clustering based on protein-protein interaction networks identified tightly connected gene clusters that have an impact on memory and cognition among the comorbidity genes of AD and T2DM. Genes with functional implications were intensively reviewed, and relevant evidence was summarized. Gene information will be useful in the discovery of biomarkers and the identification of therapeutic targets for AD.
Molecular DNA Barcoding and Fertilization Effects on Growth and Herbal Quality Features of Cultivated Sideritis syriaca subsp. syriaca, a Local Endemic Plant of Crete with High Medicinal Value
Authors: Paschalidis Konstantinos A , Fanourakis Dimitrios , Tsaniklidis Georgios , Tsichlas Ioannis , Tzanakakis Vasileios A. , Bilias Fotis , Samara Eftichia , Ipsilantis Ioannis , Grigoriadou Katerina , Samartza Ioulietta , Matsi Theodora , Tsoktouridis Georges , Krigas Nikos
Published: December 2023

Herein, we applied DNA Barcoding for the genetic characterization of Sideritis syriaca subsp. syriaca (Lamiaceae; threatened local Cretan endemic plant), using seven molecular markers of cpDNA. Five fertilization schemes were evaluated comparatively in a pilot cultivation in Crete. Chemical fertilizers (ChF), integrated nutrient management fertilizers (INM) and two biostimulants were utilized (foliar and soil application). Plant growth, leaf chlorophyll fluorescence and colour were assessed, and leaf content of chlorophyll, key antioxidants (carotenoids, flavonoids, phenols), and minerals were evaluat-ed. Fertilization regime did not affect leaf colour but induced distinct differences in leaf shape altering quality characteristics. INM-foliar and ChF-soil application promoted yield, without affecting tissue water content or biomass partitioning to inflorescences. ChF-foliar application was the most stimulato-ry treatment for enhanced antioxidant compound content, while INM-biostimulant was the least effec-tive one. In conclusion, adverse fertilization options appear as optimal when considering yield or anti-oxidant compound content. New DNA sequence datasets for the plastid regions of petB/petD, rpoC1, psbK-psbI and atpF/atpH have been deposited in the GenBank for S. syriaca subsp. syriaca while the mo-lecular markers rbcL, trnL/trnF, psbA/trnH were compared to those of another 15 Sideritis species re-trieved from the GenBank, constructing a phylogenetic tree to show their genetic relatedness.