bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the degree of DNA damage in leukocytes of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Gassan D. A. , Naumov D. E. , Sugaylo I. Yu. , Kotova O. O. , Gorchakova Y. G. , Sheludko E. G.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Oxidative stress plays a key role in the pathogenesis of COPD. Cigarette smoke induces oxidative stress, which causes DNA damage in cells. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are capable of mediating the effects of tobacco smoke and reactive oxygen species.

Aim. Studying the level of H2AX histones phosphorylation (γH2AX) indicating DNA damage in leukocytes of COPD patients and establishing its relationship with TRPV1 and 

TRPV4 expression.

Materials and methods. The study included 47 patients with COPD of varying severity and 25 controls. All subjects underwent spirometry to assess lung function. Histone H2AX phosphorylation and TRPV1/TRPV4 expression on leukocytes were determined by flow cytometry. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (ρ) was used to search for relationships between quantitative variables.

Results. Lymphocytes of COPD patients were characterized by higher level of γH2AX (%) than lymphocytes from the controls (p=0.04). Lymphocytes of smokers also showed a greater degree of DNA damage as compared to healthy non-smokers (p=0.02). Significant differences were observed when comparing γH2AX expression (%) between COPD patients and healthy non-smokers in lymphocytes (p=0.001) and monocytes (p=0.04). Smoking more than 20 pack-years was associated with higher γH2AX (%) in lymphocytes (p=0.04) of COPD patients. Expression of TRPV1 and γH2AX (%) showed significant correlations on granulocytes (ρ=0.76, p<0.001), lymphocytes (ρ=0.34, p=0.03) and monocytes (ρ=0.55, p<0.001).

Conclusion. COPD patients differ from the control group by more pronounced DNA damage, which is most evident in lymphocytes. Smoking is a factor that negatively affects the formation of DNA breaks. TRPV1 expression may play a role in oxidative DNA damage in leukocytes by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species.
ANALISIS PENGGUNAAN VIDEO PEMBELAJARAN EDUKATIF DALAM MENINGKATKAN PEMAHAMAN SISWA TENTANG SIKLUS AIR PADA MATA PELAJARAN IPAS KELAS IV DI SDN 1 ALASMALANG TAHUN AJARAN 2022/2023
Authors: Tadz Qiro Nayyirotul , Pupitaningtyas Amalia Risqi , Rofek Aenor
Published: June 2024

Pembelajaran yang tidak hanya terfokus pada siswa tetapi juga pada pola pikir terhadap pembelajaran. Salah satu faktor pendukung upaya efektif dan efisien dalam pembelajaran adalah penggunaan alat peraga. Penggunaan video pembelajaran edukatif dapat membantu siswa menerima materi pembelajaran dengan mudah dan akan dijelaskan lebih lanjut dalam penggunaan video pembelajaran edukatif. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan hasil analisis terkait penggunaan video pembelajaran edukasi dalam meningkatkan pemahaman siswa tentang siklus air pada mata pelajaran IPA kelas IV SDN 1 Alasmalang tahun ajaran 2022/2023. Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian kualitatif dengan pengumpulan data melalui observasi langsung, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, penggunaan video pembelajaran edukasi kelas 4 pada materi siklus air mendapat respon yang baik karena memudahkan siswa dalam memahami materi dan juga memudahkan guru dalam mempersiapkan materi pembelajaran. Siswa dapat aktif saat pembelajaran karena pemahamannya cukup untuk mampu menjawab pertanyaan dan pertanyaan yang diberikan guru.
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Faktor-faktor yang Mempengaruhi Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak UMKM Jakarta
Authors: Sitanggang Tikkos , Hikmawati Hikmawati
Published: June 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh pengetahuan pajak, kesadaran wajib pajak dan sanksi perpajakan terhadap kepatuhan wajib pajak Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah (UMKM). Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah UMKM Jakarta. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah wajib pajak Usaha Mikro, Kecil dan Menengah UMKM yang terdaftar di Dinas Koperasi dan JakPreneur. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan metode probability sampling yang dihitung dengan metode slovin yang memperoleh 100 responden. Responden dalam penelitian ini adalah wajib pajak UMKM yang terdaftar di Dinas Koperasi dan Jakpreneur Jakarta. Penelitian ini menggunakan data primer yang diperoleh melalui kuesíoner dan diolah dengan bantuan aplikasi SEM PLS. Hasil penelitan menunjukkan bahwa pengetahuan pajak dan kesadaran wajib pajak berpengaruh positif terhadap kepatuhan wajib pajak, sedangkan sanksi perpajakan tidak berpengaruh terhadap kepatuhan wajib pajak. Nilai adjusted R-squared sebesar 29,7% menunjukkan bahwa variasi dari variabel kepatuhan pajak sebesar 29,7% dijelaskan oleh variabel pengetahuan pajak, kesadaran wajib pajak dan sanksi perpajakan, sedangkan sisanya sebesar 70,3% dijelaskan oleh variabel lain yang tidak dimasukkan dalam penelitian ini.
Conhecimentos Profissionais para a Formação Inicial e do (e para o) Professor de Matemática
Authors: Costa Dailson Evangelista , Gonçalves Tadeu Oliver , Mariano Wagner dos Santos
Published: June 2024

O objetivo deste ensaio é apresentar uma discussão teórica que evidencia elementos de conhecimentos profissionais para a formação inicial e do (e para o) professor de matemática em formação inicial como fundamentação para (re)pensar as licenciaturas em Matemática. A partir de uma análise das principais teorias e modelos que fundamentam o conhecimento docente, este ensaio destaca a importância da integração de saberes pedagógicos e específicos da matemática na formação dos futuros professores. A discussão proposta visa contribuir para a reestruturação dos currículos das licenciaturas em Matemática, promovendo uma formação mais coerente e alinhada às demandas contemporâneas da educação matemática. Os resultados apontam para a necessidade de integrar conhecimentos profissionais tipificados pela literatura aos cursos de Licenciatura em Matemática no sentido de estarem tanto nos currículos como nas práticas dos formadores de professores para que estes desenvolvam conhecimentos especializados dos professores em formação inicial.
Tubeimoside-1 Inhibits Pancreatic Tumor Cell Growth and Enhances Tumor Cell Sensitivity to Gemcitabine
Authors: Wang Jun , Wang Shi , Fan Xiaopeng , Ye Hailin
Published: June 2024

Pancreatic tumor is one of the deadliest malignancies and the effective rate of chemotherapy for pancreatic tumor is still low. It is important to identify effective treatments and drugs that are sensitive to chemotherapy drugs. Tubeimoside-1 is a natural compound is traditionally used to treat snake venom and inflammation, and it has anti-tumor activities in multiple tumors. However, the role and mechanism of Tubeimoside-1 in pancreatic tumor has been unclear. Herein, we investigated the role of TBMS1 in the chemotherapy resistance of pancreatic tumor. We revealed that TBMS1 restrained the growth of pancreatic tumor cells. In addition, TBMS1 contributed to the apoptosis of pancreatic tumor cells. Further, tubeimoside-1 enhanced the sensitivity of pancreatic tumor gemcitabine resistant cells to gemcitabine. Mechanically, tubeimoside-1 inhibited the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin axis in pancreatic tumor cells. In summary, tubeimoside-1 inhibited the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin axis, thereby restraining pancreatic tumor cell growth and gemcitabine resistance.
The Impact of Malnutrition on Susceptibility to Neonatal Pneumonia: A Prospective Study
Authors: Liu Chunjing , Yang Hongxiu , Li Xiaoxiang , Li Lihua
Published: June 2024

This study was conducted at Beijing Luhe Hospital, from January 2022 to October 2023. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of malnutrition on the vulnerability to neonatal pneumonia. The study aimed to investigate the concept that malnourished children, who are admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and pediatric hospital within the first 28 days of life, may have reduced immune responses, which could potentially increase their susceptibility to respiratory infections. The sample consisted of 150 newborns and a comprehensive dataset was gathered encompassing demographic information, birth weight, gestational age, breastfeeding status, clinical manifestations of pneumonia, and nutritional status. The nutritional assessment was performed utilizing the growth guidelines established by the World Health Organization. The results highlighted a notable correlation between malnutrition and heightened susceptibility to newborn pneumonia. Infants who were malnourished had a greater prevalence of pneumonia, extended durations of hospitalization, increased reliance on mechanical ventilation, and raised rates of mortality in comparison to their well-nourished counterparts. The practice of exclusive breastfeeding was identified as a protective factor that decreased the incidence of pneumonia. Additionally, early nutritional interventions have been found to dramatically enhance the prognosis. These findings emphasized the crucial importance of nutritional status in the management of newborn pneumonia and support the incorporation of nutritional evaluations and interventions into neonatal care.
The Effects of Differences Colorant Used in Finishing on the Quality of Pull-Up Mill Leather
Authors: Taslika Likay , Anggriyani Emiliana , Abdullah Sofwan Siddiq
Published: June 2024

This final project aims to explain the cowhide leather through a pull-up mill finishing technique based on colorant variation. The raw materials used were crust cowhide, with an average thickness of 1.43 mm, which was divided into two treatments in samples 1 and 2. Sample 1 was completed by finishing using liquid dye dyes, while sample 2 with liquid dyestuff and pigments. The results of the trial were obtained with physical tests and organoleptic tests. The physical test results for dry rubbing resistance in experiments 1 and 2 showed results that were following consumer standards, while wet rubbing resistance in sample 1 and 2 showed loss of color so they did not comply with consumer standards. The organoleptic test was done by giving questionnaires to respondents who were experts in the fields. The results of the organoleptic test in sample 1 were uneven color, poor coverage of defects, strong pull-up effect, moderately even mill grain effect, limp skin, fairly even skin density, and slightly raised lid paint. While on sample 2, the color was even, the defects were covered, the pull-up effect was quite strong, the mill grain effect was uneven, the skin was limp, the skin density was even, and the covering paint on the lid was small raised. According to the physis and organoleptic results, leather produced by colorant variation used liquid dyestuff close to the standard for pull up mill article.
مقاومة القبائل الليبية في منطقة سرتيس للوجود الإغريقي والروماني مابين القرن الخامس ق م وإلى نهاية القرن الأول الميلادي
Authors: سالم عمر العقيلي فاطمة
Published: June 2024

The Libyan resistance of the Libyan tribes in the Sirtes area to the Greek and Roman presence through literary sources and archaeological remains..The topic of this research deals with the national resistance movement of the Libyan tribes in the Sirtes area to the Greek and Roman presence through literary sources and archaeological remains. The great powers were the Greeks, the Carthaginians, and then the Romans. The aspirations of these forces to extend their influence and control this region caused these tribes to engage in this conflict to prove their right to their homeland at times and to repel aggression and domination at other times.This conflict reached its climax in the Roman era, when it developed into an armed clash in which Roman consuls were pushed against these tribes to subjugate them and perhaps also to try to change the tribal ethnicity in the region.
مؤشرات رأس المال الاجتماعي لدى الأسرة
Authors: عبدالقادر حسين هند
Published: June 2024

The study tried to identify the features of social capital in some of the Libyan families by identifying a number of indicators such as trust, participation, cooperation, cohesion, satisfaction, family and social relations, and the study relied on the case study based on the interview tool conducted on a number (10 Libyan families) with the husband and wife, and the results of the study showed that the nature of participation between members of the study sample of families appears in the form of three circles, where the images of participation between members of the same family increase, then It becomes less within the framework of the relationship with external groups of relatives and neighbors in the local community, to become less than that at the larger level, where the political participation of the individuals in the study sample decreases, and they also have the values of participation in the development of the local community, and the results of the study confirmed that trust levels decrease as we move away from the family, as trust in neighbors and relatives decreases from the family, and decreases more when dealing with state institutions, and the results of the analysis of interviews showed that there are positive trends At all levels (cooperation between family members, cooperation with relatives, as well as cooperation with neighbors), while the results of the study confirmed that most of the study sample realize the importance of family cohesion, which is reflected in attention to the needs of family members and cooperation in solving family problems.
Comparative Analysis of Nonlinear Models Developed using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Rožman Maja , Kišić Alen , Oreški Dijana
Published: June 2024

Machine learning algorithms are increasingly used in a vast spectrum of domains where statistical approaches were previously used. Algorithms such as artificial neural networks, classification, regression trees, or support vector machines provide various advantages over traditional linear regression or discriminant analysis. Advantages such as flexibility, scalability, and improved accuracy in dealing with diverse data types, nonlinear problems, and dimensionality reduction, compared to traditional statistical methods are empirically demonstrated in many previous research papers. In this paper, two machine learning algorithms are compared with one statistical method on highly nonlinear data. Results indicate a high level of effectiveness for machine learning algorithms when dealing with nonlinearity.
Development of Static Fluid Practicum Modules in the Independent Curriculum to Improve Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Chanthika Putri  , Yuni Warty
Published: June 2024

Teaching materials available in the field are still minimal and need to be developed. To enhance a more directed learning process, improve student learning outcomes, and increase student independence in learning, it is necessary to develop teaching materials for an independent curriculum. This research aims to develop a scientific-based static fluid practicum module of the independent curriculum. The type of research used is the Research and Development (R&D) using the ADDIE model through the stages of analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. Data collection techniques were feasibility questionnaire, practicality questionnaire and multiple-choice questions for pre-test and post-test. The results of the analysis show that students lack direct observation in learning due to the unavailability of teaching materials that support practicum activities. This research data shows the percentage of the feasibility level of the practicum module which obtained an average of 92.2%, the practicality level of the practicum module obtained an average of 89.9% and the effectiveness level of the practicum module obtained an N-Gain of 0.70. The developed practicum module is feasible, practical, and effective in learning high school physics.
Determinants of intention buying local foods: a conceptual framework
Authors: Artha Bhenu , Tunjung Sari Utami , Bahri  , Permata Sari Niken
Published: June 2024

Consuming food from the area has grown in popularity. Local foods have positive effects on the environment, economy, society, and health. In particular, we investigate how consumer beliefs about locavorism is predicted by antecedent factors (i.e., values of collectivistic and individualistic). We also investigate how locavorism is predicted by consumer travel behavior and city branding. We also look at how these sets of beliefs affect consumer attitudes toward and intentions to buy local foods in Special Region of Yogyakarta. By addressing the antecedents of locavorism and placing the constructs of locavorism within an integrated network of antecedents and effects, this study closes a research gap in the field of local food research. We use 9-point scales for questionnaire, which is a novelty in this study, where previous studies used 7 scales. The 9-point scales are used to rate as closely as possible the respondent's response to what is described. This study's conclusions have ramifications for regional food marketers.
Preferencias y Experiencias en el uso del Comercio Electrónico por Estudiantes Universitarios
Authors: Miranda Pino Liriol , Del Carmen Cruz B. Reyna
Published: June 2024

Comprender como el comercio electrónico ha permitido abrir canales virtuales para comprar y vender las veinticuatro horas al día, los siete (7) días a la semana es ¡todo un logro e invento! que ha transformado la vida de los usuarios que navegan sin frontera a través de la plataforma de la razón. La exhibición de los productos o servicios que ofertan las tiendas y negocios no tiene horario ni límites, porque los catálogos de muchas tiendas   lo esperan siempre y cuando, Usted   esté conectado a Internet. Esta forma de comprar y vender se ha quedado, y los principales usuarios han sido los jóvenes que navegan de forma fácil a través de la carretera de la información. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional, exploratorio y transversal, a partir del diseño y aplicación de la encuesta. Las preferencias y experiencias de compras son entre otros, los principales ejes temáticos que interesa conocer de los jóvenes universitarios de esta Facultad. Además, se comprobó que las mujeres compran más por internet. Entre sus plataformas y sitios web favoritos están: Amazon, ebay, Alibaba, Aliexpress   y otros. Los estudiantes universitarios en el distrito de Santiago se han involucrado en la forma de comprar y vender productos y servicios para su consumo personal, amigos y familiares.  Entre las ventajas de hacer compras en internet esta la interacción fácil para el usuario, porque esto reduce el tiempo de compra por parte del cliente y lo hace a su propio estilo y a cualquier hora
Assessing the Relationship of Service Quality and Attributes of Selected Coffee Shop to Customer Satisfaction in Poblacion, Valencia City, Bukidnon
Authors: Ombrete Lauga Roi Cedric , Cernias Traza Linmar , Tormis-Saldivar Mariane Joy Z. , Lumacad Belisario Zyra Mae , Saramosing-Equit Millisa
Published: June 2024

This study explored for customer satisfaction on Valencia City's coffee culture. It focus on the demographics, service quality, and coffee shop attributes. The general objective of the study was to provide insights for strategic advancements in the local coffee industry. Using a robust research instrument, findings revealed that a young, female, college-educated clientele with a decisive preference for specific coffee shops. Tangibility, reliability, and value for money significantly impacted customer satisfaction. The study challenged traditional assumptions, highlighting the primacy of the chosen coffee shop over demographic factors. Regression analysis identified reliability, quality of coffee, and value for money as key predictors of satisfaction. Recommendations urge coffee shop owners to prioritize staff training, operational efficiency, and strategic pricing while maintaining visually appealing and hygienic environments. Future research should explore evolving consumer trends and external factors shaping Valencia City's coffee culture. This study contributes actionable insights for enhancing customer experiences and staying responsive in the vibrant local coffee scene.
A taxonomic backbone for the Plumbaginaceae (Caryophyllales)
Authors: Malekmohammadi Maryam , Koutroumpa Konstantina , Crespo Manuel B. , Domina Gianniantonio , Korotkova Nadja , Akhani Hossein , von Mering Sabine , Borsch Thomas , Berendsohn Walter G.
Published: June 2024

A taxonomic backbone of the Plumbaginaceae is presented and the current state of knowledge on phylogenetic relationships and taxon limits is reviewed as a basis for the accepted taxon concepts. In total, 4,476 scientific names and designations are treated of which 30 are not in the family Plumbaginaceae. The Plumbaginaceae are subdivided in three tribes with 26 genera and 1,179 accepted species. Two subgenera, 17 sections, two subsections and 187 infraspecific taxa are accepted. At the species and infraspecific level 2,782 synonyms were assigned to accepted taxa, whereas 194 names were excluded from the core checklist (i.e., unplaced taxa, infrageneric subdivisions with still uncertain application, names of verified uncertain application, invalid horticultural names, excluded names from other families, other excluded designations, and unresolved names). The EDIT Platform for Cybertaxonomy was utilized as the tool to compile and manage the names and further taxonomic data under explicit taxon concepts. Secundum references are given in case taxon concepts were taken from the literature, whereas this study serves as reference for newly circumscribed taxa. The family’s division into the tribes Aegialitideae, Limonieae, and Plumbagineae departs from earlier two-subfamily classifications, prompted by recent phylogenetic findings that challenge the subfamilial affinity of Aegialitis. The genus Acantholimon was extended to include Gladiolimon, as currently available phylogenetic and morphological data support this merger. In Limonium, all accepted species could be assigned to sections and subsections or the “Mediterranean lineage”, respectively, making use of the phylogenetic distribution of their morphological characters and states. A new combination and/or status is proposed for Dyerophytum socotranum, Limonium thymoides, Limonium × fraternum, Limonium × rossmaessleri, and Limonium sect. Jovibarba. Special attention is given to nomenclatural issues, particularly for Statice nomen ambiguum to resolve the names under accepted names. The use of artificial groupings like “aggregates”, “complexes” and “species groups” in alpha-taxonomic treatments is discussed. The taxonomic backbone will receive continued updates and through the Caryophyllales Taxonomic Expert Network, it contributes the treatment of the Plumbaginaceae for the World Flora Online.
Diversity of Orbiniella (Orbiniidae, Annelida) in the North Atlantic and the Arctic
Authors: Meca Miguel A. , Kongsrud Jon Anders , Kongshavn Katrine , Alvestad Tom , Meißner Karin , Budaeva Nataliya
Published: June 2024

In this work, the diversity of the genus Orbiniella in the Nordic Seas and the North Atlantic waters south of Iceland is studied based on the analyses of molecular markers (mitochondrial COI, 16S rDNA and nuclear ITS2) and morphological characters. Our results showed the presence of at least five genetic lineages in the studied material which could also be morphologically identified by their segmental annulation patterns, the number and the shape of acicular spines, and the length and the shape of pygidial lobes. The species name Orbiniella petersenae is assigned to one of the lineages restricting its geographical and vertical distribution to the deep-sea areas north of Iceland and Jan Mayen, and three lineages are described as new species (i.e., Orbiniella griegi Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov., Orbiniella mayhemi Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov., and Orbiniella parapari Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov.) elevating the number of known species in the genus to 25. Three deep-sea species of Orbiniella in our study are reported only north of the Greenland-Iceland-Scotland Ridge, one deep-sea species found south of the ridge. A single shallow-water species is distributed along the ridge and on the Norwegian shelf.
Digital Pathology in Healthcare: Current Trends and Future Perspective
Authors: Goswami Neelankit Gautam , Sampathila Niranjana , Bairy G. Muralidhar , Chadaga Krishnaraj , Goswami Anushree , Belurkar Sushma
Published: June 2024

Diagnosing a disease requires observing the affected tissues and drawing conclusions based on specific known features. Conventionally, a pathologist would diagnose the sample manually by placing it on a glass slide and viewing it under the microscope. These microscopes existed 400 years ago, but over the years, there have been modifications aimed at digitizing every possible diagnostic test. One of the major advantages of digitizing the process is the reduced time consumption for acquiring, processing, and analyzing the slides. Another positive aspect is the reduction in subjectivity achieved by utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to classify and diagnose specific diseases. This is achieved by attaching a digital camera to the microscope, which captures images of the glass slides for subsequent processing and diagnosis. There has been a lot of research in this field, but its implementation has been hindered by challenges such as interoperability and high-resolution data, resulting in large file sizes. Various applications for whole slide imaging, such as disease diagnosis techniques, whole slide imaging (WSI) scanners, digital slide scanners, the Internet of Things (IoT), and AI, have been explored in this study. This paper reviews the trends and evolution of microscopes leading to present-day digital pathology scanners, with a major focus on one of the digital techniques, which is whole slide imaging. It also explores various areas where AI has been integrated into whole-slide imaging.
Leonardo da Vinci’s Ginevra de' Benci: The palette and further observations on underdrawing and undermodeling
Authors: Delaney John K. , Dooley Kathryn A. , Glinsman Lisha D. , Ricciardi Paola , Berrie Barbara H.
Published: June 2024

To further our understanding of Leonardo da Vinci’s painting practices, a new scientific research study was conducted on Ginevra de' Benci, c. 1474/1478. More information about the preparatory underdrawing, undermodeling, and palette was obtained. The new analysis included multispectral infrared reflectography at high spatial resolution (50 μm per pixel) in three spectral bands between 1000 and 2500 nm. These high-resolution infrared images were registered to the digital X-ray radiograph and color image of the painting. This allowed careful comparison of specific compositional features among the color, infrared and X-ray images which helped to deduce the paint layering sequence. A false-color infrared reflectogram helped to better visualize the undermodeling present in the face of Ginevra, as well as the pounced dots used to initially position the sitter. Finally, the pigments used were determined from non-invasive chemical point analysis using reflectance and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopies, which were found to be consistent with Leonardo’s known palette. The combination of multispectral infrared reflectography, the ability to register the images from multiple imaging methods, and the knowledge obtained about the pigments provides a more comprehensive understanding about the underdrawing and painting process of Ginevra de' Benci.
The Lady with an Ermine – Portrait of Cecilia Gallerani: Research into Leonardo da Vinci’s painting materials and techniques
Authors: Hoyo-Meléndez Julio M. del , Gargano Marco , Chmielewska Małgorzata , Grochowska-Angelus Anna , Novljaković Katarzyna , Frączek Piotr , Matosz Marta , Obarzanowski Michał , Czop Janusz
Published: June 2024

The Lady with an Ermine is one of the greatest masterpieces by the Italian artist Leonardo da Vinci from around 1489-1490, depicting Cecilia Gallerani, most likely at the time when she was the mistress of Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan. This painting belongs to a group of four portraits of women painted by Leonardo along with the Mona Lisa, Ginevra de' Benci and La Belle Ferronnière. It was acquired by Prince Adam Jerzy Czartoryski around 1800 in Italy. In 2012, a group of conservators and scientists from the National Museum in Krakow in collaboration with experts from various institutions in Poland and abroad conducted the sixth research campaign on the painting focusing on its technological aspects. Various techniques were applied to study the materials and methods employed by Leonardo, including technical photography, X-radiography, micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Physico-chemical analyses allowed to identify characteristic pigments employed by Leonardo da Vinci such as vermilion, iron-based earth pigments, lead-tin yellow, lead white, and ultramarine. The background was overpainted in black, most likely before its sale, in the 18th century. The original background most likely consists of an underlayer layer showing slight grey tone modulations obtained using iron oxide or hydroxide mineral earths. The absence of copper-based pigments in the background does not validate the hypothesis of an existing painting hidden under the black repainted zone. A dominance of lead white in brighter parts of the painting was noted, while tonal transitions were achieved using thin layers of an iron-based glaze in the sfumato technique.
Leonardo da Vinci’s London Virgin of the Rocks re-examined
Authors: Spring Marika , Melchiorre Di Crescenzo Marta , Higgitt Catherine , Billinge Rachel
Published: June 2024

The anniversary in 2019 of Leonardo’s death prompted a new investigation of the Virgin of the Rocks now in the National Gallery in London. This built on a substantial foundation of earlier research, one past milestone being the discovery through infrared reflectography of an underdrawing for a completely different composition, showing a Virgin higher up on the panel and in a different pose. This paper focuses on the latest findings associated with this first abandoned composition, discussing how the re-examination using macro X-ray fluorescence (XRF) scanning and reflectance imaging spectroscopy (RIS) in the infrared range allowed a much more complete visualisation of the initial design, found to include figures for the Christ Child and an angel. The new study also provided interesting insights into Leonardo’s underdrawing materials and methods, identifying different drawing media (which include zinc-containing iron gall inks mixed with variable amounts of carbon black), seemingly used at different stages of the creative process to develop initial ideas into a more defined composition. The findings are relevant to the long genesis of the painting and its relationship with the version in the Musée du Louvre, Paris.
The transformation of the commercial activities in West African metropolises: the case of Dakar (Senegal)
Authors: Mboup Malick
Published: June 2024

The evolution of retail unquestionably justifies the growing interest shown by research in this essential function of the economic system of metropolises, particularly in West Africa. In Dakar, the reshaping of the commercial space has attracted the interest of the government, researchers and economic players, especially in recent years, following the arrival of French food retailers, Auchan in particular. This situation has begun to reshape the structure of retailing, sparking fear among local small-scale retailers, who are adopting adaptive strategies. After all, commerce is both an economic and a social foundation for thousands of manages, including women. While markets, local stores and street stalls continue to be the preferred places for the majority of Dakar residents to do their shopping, the breakthrough of Auchan supermarkets is real for consumers, who are regaining freedom of choice in their purchasing actions.
Non-Arrhenius Transport Properties of Glass-Forming Materials in a Wide Temperature Range: A Systematic Study Based on the BSCNF Model
Authors: Ikeda Masahiro , Aniya Masaru
Published: June 2024

The understanding of the non-Arrhenius transport properties in glass-forming materials is of great importance from both, fundamental and applied points of views. In the present paper, we show that our model, the bond strength-coordination number fluctuation (BSCNF) model describes the temperature dependence of the non-Arrhenius transport coefficients in a wide temperature range. The BSCNF model also enables to characterize the glass-forming materials in terms of the mean values of the bond strength E0, the coordination number Z0 and their fluctuations ΔE and ΔZ of the structural units that form the melts. Importantly, in the light of the BSCNF model, one can discuss the physical implications of the materials that extend from the strong to fragile systems in a systematic way compared to other popular models. In addition, we present a new theory of the vacancy formation, and briefly mention that the extended theory along with the BSCNF model can be applied to discuss the freezing of defects.
Defect and Thickness Optimization of Perovskite for High Efficiency Solar Cells
Authors: Edam Murtadha Jameel , Almohsin Samir Mahdi Abdul , Khadier Hawraa Mohammed , Auad Baraa Hadi , Tarek Dhuha
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we examined CH3NH3PbI3 potential as an absorber component for perovskite solar cells (PSCs). We used CuSCN (copper thiocyanate) as the hole transport layer and, ZnO as the electron transport layer to optimize work the device, in the CH3NH3PbI3-based perovskite solar cell, and we used the solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS-1D). Exemplary perovskite solar cell is made up of six main layers, each of which is composed of a different material: glass, a thinning layer of fluorine-doped tin oxide substrate (FTO), ZnO for electron transport, CH3NH3PbI3 for methylammonium lead iodide for the perovskite effective layer, copper thiocyanate for hole transport, and platinum (Pt) for the electrode. The best Optimized device structure, FTO / CuCSN /CH3NH3PbI3 / ZnO /Pt, had a power conversion efficiency of 42.69%, according to simulation data. We examined the impact of changing thickness, defect density, and temperature on the efficiency of the device. The Optimum efficiency we get at thickness 10 μm is 42.69%, which is a promising result, Jsc is 29.766433 (mA/cm2), and FF is 91.39% and Voc is 1.5692 (V), best efficiency corresponds to defect density 1*. while, we note that the efficiency of perovskite solar cells decreases gradually at increase temperature.
Robots in Agriculture: Revolutionizing Farming Practices
Authors: Moshayedi Ata Jahangir , Sohail Khan Amir , Yang Yiguo , Hu Jiandong , Kolahdooz Amin
Published: June 2024

The integration of robotics in modern agriculture represents a revolutionary paradigm shift, enhancing efficiency and sustainability in food production. Agricultural robots, designed to automate various tasks, play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges faced by the industry. These robots are purpose-built for activities such as precision planting, weeding, and harvesting, streamlining processes that were traditionally labor-intensive. Their implementation leads to increased productivity, reduced operational costs, and minimized environmental impact through optimized resource utilization. This paper delves into the intricate landscape of robotic structures employed in agriculture, unraveling the diverse mechanisms and designs that underpin their functionality. It meticulously examines and elucidates the structural nuances of agricultural robots, shedding light on the engineering marvels that enable precision farming. From articulated arms to autonomous drones, the paper navigates through a spectrum of robot architectures, dissecting their roles in automating tasks critical to modern agriculture.
Capacities commensurable with harmonic ones
Authors: Mazalov Maksim Yakovlevich
Published: June 2024

Let $\mathcal L$ be a second-order homogeneous elliptic differential operator in $\mathbb R^N$, $N\ge3$, with constant complex coefficients. Removable singularities of $\mathrm L^{\infty}$-bounded solutions of the equation $\mathcal Lf=0$ are described in terms of the capacities $\gamma_{\mathcal L}$, where $\gamma_{\Delta}$ is the classical harmonic capacity from potential theory. It is shown for the corresponding values of $N$ that $\gamma_{\mathcal L}$ and $\gamma_{\Delta}$ are commensurable for all $\mathcal L$. Some ideas due to Tolsa are used in the proof. Various consequences of this commensurability are presented; in particular, criteria for the uniform approximation of functions by solutions of the equation $\mathcal Lf=0$ are stated in terms of harmonic capacities.
Bibliography: 19 titles.
Optimization of Dynamic Wireless Charging Systems and Economic
Feasibility Assessment of Electrified Roads
Authors: Qiu Kuanrong , Ribberink Hajo , Entchev Evgueniy
Published: June 2024

Dynamic wireless charging (DWC) systems can make up electrified roads (eRoads) on
which electricity from the grid is supplied to electric vehicles (EVs)
wirelessly while the EVs travel along the roads. Electrification of roads
contributes to decarbonizing the transport sector and offers a strong solution
to high battery cost, range anxiety, and long charging times of EVs. However,
the DWC eRoads infrastructure is costly. This article presents a model to
minimize the infrastructure cost so that the deployment of eRoads can be
economically more feasible. The investment for eRoad infrastructure consists of
the costs of various components including inverters, road-embedded power
transmitter devices, controllers, and grid connections. These costs depend on
the traffic flow of EVs. The configuration and deployment strategy of the
proposed eRoads in Southeastern Canada are designed with optimized charging
power and DWC coverage ratio to attain the best cost-effectiveness.
Well-designed intermittent or partial DWC systems are shown to be an effective
approach to reducing the overall investment. The economic feasibility of the DWC
eRoads is assessed using a levelized cost metric. The results show that the DWC
technology is economically viable, particularly for long-haul truck transport.
In addition, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to evaluate which parameters
have a more significant impact on the economic viability of the DWC eRoads.
Research on Extended Expansion General-Purpose Engine - Heat Release and Friction -
Authors: KOGA Hibiki , WATANABE Sei
Published: June 2024

The combustion and efficiency of an extended expansion general-purpose engine employing a multiple linkage system with that of a conventional engine consisting of the same component parts, with the exception of the linkage system. The results show that this extended expansion increases indicated thermal efficiency from 29.6% to 33.2%. In addition, as the piston speed near the compression top dead center of this engine is slow, mass fraction burned depends upon the change in the cylinder volume, relative to the combustion chamber volume during the combustion period. The change of the minimum spark advance for best torque (MBT) timing relative to load is smaller than that of the conventional engine. In addition, measurements of drive loss during motoring operation show that the friction of this engine is approximately the same as that of a conventional engine. As a result, brake thermal efficiency of the test engine was increased by approximately 13%, from 20.1% of the conventional engine to 22.7%, under the EPA mode with fixed ignition timing operation.
The Potential of a New Type of Carburettor to Assist SORE in Meeting EPA / CARB Phase 3 Legislation
Authors: Glover Stephen , Douglas Roy , Omarsson Kristjan
Published: June 2024

Small off-road engines (SORE) have been recognised as a major source of air pollution. It is estimated that non handheld SORE annually produce over 1 million tonnes of HC+NOx and over 50 million tonnes of CO2. The fuel system design and its operating AFR are of key importance with regard to engine operation and engine out emissions. The conventional low-cost float carburettors used in these engines are relatively ineffective at atomising and preparing the fuel for combustion requiring a rich setting for acceptable functional performance. EPA and CARB have confirmed that Phase 3 limits are achievable for a “durable” engine fitted with a conventional well calibrated and manufactured “stock rich setting” float carburettor together with catalytic oxidation after-treatment and passive secondary air injection. The EPA and CARB strategy for meeting Phase 3 only considers the use of conventional float carburettors that operate at rich AFR's over their entire engine operating range as no other cost effective alternative fuel system is yet available on the market. A cost effective alternative to the conventional carburettor that enabled leaner or optimised AFR operation with load and improved combustion performance would open the door to alternative strategies to meeting the phase 3 limits.

This paper presents a completely new form of mechanical carburettor that gives AFR control with load, improved mixture preparation for improved combustion performance and has a lower production cost than conventional carburettors. The conventional and new fuel system designs and operation are discussed in detail and their technical merits demonstrated in the form of engine test data. The performance of different after-treatment systems is also simulated for different AFR profiles with load for a conventional or unmodified SORE engine. With optimised leaner operation and improved combustion characteristics, this new carburettor technology can provide significant engine out CO and HC+NOx reductions on the J1088 test cycle without loss of functional performance. Depending on the chosen emissions control strategy, minimum engine out emissions or optimum engine AFR for oxidation or three-way after-treatment or another, this new carburettor technology can be easily calibrated to provide the desired engine operating AFR profile on the J1088 cycle.
R&D of a New G.D.I. 2-Stroke Engine with a Unidirectional Scavenging Flow and a Force-Feed Lubrication System
Authors: NUCCIO Patrizio , MARZANO Mario Rocco
Published: June 2024

Preliminary bench tests have been carried out on an original-design 2-stroke single-cylinder prototype engine, which is equipped with an electronically controlled gasoline direct injection apparatus. The main design and operating features of the engine concern: a unidirectional airflow during the scavenging process (from the inlet ports near the BDC to overhead cam-actuated valves), an external air pump (a Roots volumetric type driven by an electric motor) and a force-feed lubrication system, like those usually exploited in mass-produced 4-stroke engines. Experimental bench tests were carried out under low load, intermediate rotational speed operating conditions. The performances were compared to those obtained from a commercial crankcase-scavenged 2-stroke engine using an indirect injection fuel feeding system. Encouraging results were obtained as far as fuel consumption and pollutant emissions are concerned. Other improvements are expected thanks to scheduled modifications regarding a new piston design along with a new arrangement of both the spark-plugs and the injector position.
Monitoring Piston Temperature of Two-stroke Cycle Engines in Testing Operation
Authors: OTANI Hiroaki , FUKASAWA Masaho , HASEGAWA Junichi , IIDA Kazumi
Published: June 2024

This report describes a thermometric method utilizing an infrared fiber. The method is used for monitoring the piston temperature of the two-stroke cycle engine mounted on an outboard motor while the engine is in testing operation. The piston temperature measurement is an essential part of the engineering work for developing the reliability of the piston.

Traditionally, the piston temperature measurement was performed utilizing a thermocouple embedded in the piston. Every time the piston reaches the bottom dead center, the electrical signal from the thermocouple was picked up intermittently via a mechanical contact. However, uncertainty associated with the durability of the mechanical contact has restricted the running time of continuous measurement. The method described in this report was developed to address such difficulty.

In principle, the infra-red energy emitted by the piston depending on its temperature is detected via the infra-red fiber. Thus, the need for providing the contact was eliminated. The appropriate structure was configured for mounting the infrared fiber in the cylinder block, and the reproducibility tests have demonstrated the effectiveness of the method as the practically viable tool.

The method allows real-time measurement of the piston temperature with assured durability. The piston temperature measurements are taken in the form of ample mapped data, which enables quick and accurate evaluation for proper settings as well as their optimization.
Effects of Uniform and Non-uniform Electric Field on Premixed Combustion
Authors: MORIYA Shinichi , YOSHIDA Koji , SHOJI Hideo , IIJIMA Akira
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to elucidate the flame propagation behavior under the electric field application by using the constant volume vessel. The laser induced breakdown applies the ignition and Nd:YAG laser is used. A homogeneous propane-air mixture is used and three equivalence ratios, 0.7, 1.0 and 1.5 are tested. In the uniform electric field, the premixed flame rapidly propagates toward both upward and downward directions and the flame front becomes a cylindrical shape. The maximum combustion pressure decreases with an increase of input voltage because of an increase of heat loss to the electrode, however the combustion duration is hardly affected by the input voltage. In the non-uniform electric field, the flame propagation velocity of downward direction increases. The combustion enhancement effect is remarkably when the input voltage is larger than 12 kV because the brush corona occurs and intense turbulence is generated on the flame front.
Study of Diffusion Combustion by Using the High-Voltage Electrical Discharge
Authors: MIFUNE Takaaki , YOSHIDA Koji , IIJIMA Akira , SHOJI Hideo
Published: June 2024

A new combustion method which is using the characteristic of plasma jet ignition is proposed. This new combustion method has features of diffusive combustion, however the fuel is injected and ignited by the electrical discharge. In the procedure of plasma jet ignition, a high-voltage electrical discharge is generated from the electrode to the orifice and then the gas in the cavity is transformed to a plasma state. When the cavity is filled with liquid fuel, the fuel plasma jet spreads into combustion chamber and is mixed with air in combustion chamber, and then the diffusive combustion occurs. Tests are carried out with four kinds of fuel by using a constant volume vessel. All kinds of fuel are surely injected by the electrical discharge and are certainly ignited and burned by this combustion method. The diffusion flame development process is influenced by fuel properties and is affected by the orifice diameter size.