bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streamlining the highly reproducible fabrication of fibrous biomedical specimens towards standardization and high throughput
Authors: Lang Gregor , Lamberger Zan , Mussoni Camilla , Murenu Nicoletta , Mier Mateo Andrade , Stahlhut Philipp , Ahmad Taufiq , Schaefer Natascha , Villmann Carmen , Zwingelberg Sarah , Groll Jürgen
Published: March 2024

Nano- and micro-fiber-based scaffolds bear enormous potential for their use in cell culture and tissue engineering, since they mimic natural collagen structures and may thus serve as biomimetic adhesive substrates. They have, however, so far been restricted to small scale production in research labs with high batch-to-batch variation. They are commonly produced via electrospinning or melt electro-writing and their delicate nature poses obstacles in detachment, storage, and transportation. This study focuses on overcoming challenges in the high throughput production and practical handling, introducing new methods to reproducibly prepare such scaffolds suitable for quantitative cell culture applications. Attention is given to the seamless handling and transfer of samples without compromising structural integrity. Challenges in detaching fibers without damage as well as storage, and transport are addressed. Cell culture studies demonstrate the methodological advantages, emphasizing the potential for standardized testing and biological readouts of these fiber materials. The developed methods are applicable across various electrospinning and melt electro-writing approaches and can essentially contribute to their utilization in laboratory research and commercial applications.
GLONASS-K attitude: rapid turning maneuvers and other deviations from ideal yaw steering
Authors: Dilssner Florian , Springer Tim
Published: March 2024

This paper provides a description of the GLONASS-K yaw turn maneuvers that regularly occur at orbit noon and orbit midnight when the Sun’s elevation angle relative to the satellite orbital plane is between − 2.0 and + 2.0 degrees. Formulas for maneuver modeling are presented, which can be easily integrated into any Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) software. Triple-frequency carrier phase observations from the global International GNSS Service (IGS) tracking network are analyzed to evaluate the performance of the model. Yaw angle estimates for the first GLONASS-K1 and first GLONASS-K2 spacecraft indicate that the actual yaw attitude follows the theoretical steering model with an accuracy of about 2 degrees. In addition to the regular yaw maneuvers, examples of other systematic deviations from the ideal GLONASS-K yaw attitude are presented.
Frequent host-switch and gene exchange shape the evolution of Staphylococcus aureus ST398
Authors: Malhotra-Kumar Surbhi , Lin Qiang , Timbermont Leen , Vlaeminck Jelle , Nguyen Minh , Schalk Thomas van der , Tabor David , Raafat Dina , Lammens Christine , Holtfreter Silva , Paling Fleur , Jafri Hassan , François Bruno , Sellman Bret , Esser Mark , Bonten Marc J. M. , Goossens Hermann , Völker Uwe , Wamel Willem van , Glupczynski Youri , Kumar-Singh Samir , Kluytmans Jan
Published: March 2024

Staphylococcus aureus ST398 is a typical ‘One Health’ pathobiont exemplifying multiple-host tropisms. Here we traced the evolutionary trajectory of the global accessory genome (an assembly of accessory genes) of S. aureus ST398 over 20 years, with the aim of identifying the mechanisms linking accessory genomes with multiple-host tropisms and the phylogenomic traits associated with severe human infections. We analyzed 1079 high-quality genomes of ST398 from 13 host species, spanning 23 years (1998–2021) and 25 countries across 5 continents, and showed that accessory gene pools of ST398 substantially expanded in the early period before 2010, aligning with the increase in the host-species spectrum. The more recent shifts of accessory genomes were mainly driven by stochastic processes. Accessory genes transferred widely across ST398 from different host-species and barely formed host-specific accessory gene pools, indicating that a host-jump of ST398 was followed shortly by another host-switch rather than a long-term co-evolution with a new host species to generate host-specific gene pools. Human-ST398 was a major recipient of accessory gene transfer, with more common gene transfer with ST398 from pig than other animals. Life-threatening exotoxin genes separately encoding Panton-Valentine Leukocidin and the staphylococcal enterotoxin B were abundant and exclusive to human-ST398 that showed a higher evolution rate than animal-ST398. Both accessory and core genome analyses implied nutrient metabolism as a major force for ST398 evolution. Analyses of clinical data revealed a conserved evolution of ST398 along infection development within a patient, and identified a novel subtype ST398-9 (a relatively recent phylogenetic branch) and phages StauST398_5 and StauST398_1 to be closely associated with human infections. Our findings elucidate mechanisms underlying the distribution and evolution of accessory gene pools of ST398, which determine the development of multiple-host tropisms and pathogenicity.
Assessment of Bovine Umbilical Cord-Derived Stem Cells in Conjunction with Glutamine for Mitigation of Hepatic Injury in the Context of Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Zong Junlin , Liu Yanchen , Guan Yuhan , Yan Yan , Feng Jintao , Long Xu , Guan Weijun
Published: March 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a localized-to-systemic inflammatory disorder that triggers the release of various proinflammatory mediators. Unfortunately, effective treatments for this condition are currently lacking, and a substantial portion of AP patients succumb to liver failure due to the intricate physiological and pathological interplay between the liver and pancreas.Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) exhibit notable attributes, including multipotent differentiation capacity, colony-forming potential, and robust migratory responses to injury. Glutamine, an essential amino acid in cell culture and a source of immune cells, is used in early nutritional interventions to help with pancreatitis.In this study, our objective was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of a combinatorial approach involving UCMSCs and glutamine in the management of hepatic injury associated with pancreatitis.
To accomplish this objective, we established an acute pancreatitis murine model and administered UCMSCs via tail vein njections while concurrently providing oral glutamine supplementation. The homing of these cells was observed in rats through fluorescence microscopy. A comprehensive array of techniques was employed to assess treatment outcomes.Histopathological examination, as revealed by HE staining, demonstrated a significantly reduced extent of pancreatic tissue damage in both the UCMSC-treated and combined therapy groups compared to the AP control group. Serum amylase and lipase activities were markedly diminished in the UCMSC and combined therapy groups in comparison to the untreated AP group (P<0.05).
Furthermore, the expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α were significantly attenuated, while those of the anti-inflammatory IL-10 and SOD were notably elevated in the UCMSC-treated and combined therapy groups (P<0.05).The assessment of apoptosis, a pivotal aspect of tissue damage in pancreatitis, demonstrated a significantly higher apoptotic index in the untreated AP group (P<0.05), whereas it was significantly lower in the UCMSC-treated and combined therapy groups (P<0.05).
Our findings indicate that the combined therapeutic approach involving UCMSCs and glutamine substantially mitigates hepatocyte apoptosis induced by acute pancreatitis (AP). However, there was no statistically significant difference in efficacy between combination therapy and direct mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy in ameliorating liver injury in the context of pancreatitis(P>0.05). While combination glutamine therapy presents a promising and novel therapeutic avenue, its efficacy not diverges from that of direct cell-based regimens.
Wild rice GL12 regulated by GIF1 and WRKY53 synergistically improves grain length and salt tolerance in cultivated rice
Authors: Qiao Weihua , Wang Yanyan , Chen Wenxi , Xing Meng , Sun Jiaqiang , Wang Shizhuang , Yang Ziyi , Huang Jingfen , Nie Yamin , Zhao Mingchao , Li Yapeng , Guo Wenlong , Wang Yinting , Chen Ziyi , Zhang Qiaoling , Hu Jiang , Li Yunhai , Huang Ke , Zheng Xiaoming , Zhou Leina , Zhang Lifang , Cheng Yunlian , Qian Qian , yang qingwen
Published: March 2024

The abounding variations in wild rice (Oryza rufipogon) provided potential reservoirs of beneficial genes for rice breeding. Maintaining stable and high yields under environmental stresses is a long-standing goal of rice breeding but is challenging due to internal trade-off mechanisms. Here, we reported a gene in wild rice as a candidate target for achieving this goal in cultivated rice. Wild rice GL12W improves grain length, grain weight, and salt tolerance in both indica and japonica genetic backgrounds. GL12W alters cell length by regulating grain size related genes including GS2, and positively regulates the salt tolerance related genes, such as NAC5, NCED3, under salt stresses. We found that a G/T variation in GL12 promoter determined its binding to coactivator GIF1 and transcript factor WRKY53. GIF1 promotes GL12W expression in young panicle and WRKY53 represses GL12W expression under salt stresses. The near isogenic line of GL12W showed longer grain length and higher salt tolerance than its overexpression lines, demonstrated that GL12W has a stronger effect under its native promoter. Additionally, the G/T variation contributes to the divergence of indica and japonica subspecies, most of japonica harbor G genotype and the majority of indica are T genotype. Generally, GL12W synergistically controls rice yield and salt tolerance through different spatio-temporal expression patterns, which regulated by GIF1 and WRKY53. Our results provided novel resources for modern rice breeding and insights for yield and salt tolerance trade-off mechanism.
OHMN: Android Malware Detection Method Using Opcode Highway Memory Network
Authors: Karthika M. , Anusha M.
Published: March 2024

Malware developed for Android devices has recently showed a preference for rapid replication, which speeds up the process of stealing sensitive data. By reusing code, hackers introduce potentially harmful modifications. In this study, we suggest using a deep learning-based network called the "Opcode highway memory network" (OHMN), which may identify versions of malware that are related to one another without requiring the analyst to have any specialized understanding in mathematics or methodology. Truth interference fuzzy clustering is a way to find features using software birth marking of malcode sequences, and sequence patch normalization may be used to standardize the input data. Malware samples are clustered, and that information is sent into the OHMN process that looks for different strains of malware. The Android malware detection system has been shown to operate well via both observation and experimentation. General testing was performed on the Mal Radar dataset, an android malware dataset obtained from the zenodo under python environment. As shown by the simulation results, the proposed approach outperformed the state-of-the-art algorithm.
The Effects of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) Instruction on Grade 11 EFL Students’ Reading Comprehension
Authors: Lamu Birhanu Tolasa
Published: March 2024

This
study examined the effects of content and language-integrated
learning instruction on grade 11 EFL students’ reading
comprehension. This study utilized a quasi-experimental research
design. To carry out this study, 37 private school EFL students
participated as experimental (N = 19) and control (N = 18) groups
in the academic year of 2022–2023 in both semesters. The
experimental group participants were instructed through a
language-driven CLIL-based reading instruction whereas the control
group followed conventional reading instruction. To gather data,
pretest-and posttest reading comprehension tests were applied. The
quantitative data from the pretest and the posttest was analyzed
using a t-test on SPSS. The results revealed that both the
experimental and the control groups were found homogenous during
the pre-intervention. Nevertheless, after the intervention, the
results indicated that experimental group students outperformed
significantly (p < .05) the control group students in reading
comprehension posttests showing the supremacy of soft-CLIL over the
conventional teaching reading method. Therefore, results were
consistent with predictions, and the implication behind the results
is that a Soft CLIL was effective in content or subject classrooms
to teach English reading comprehension. The results indicated that
CLIL instruction draws the attention of students. Finally, CLIL
instruction could be appropriate for teaching English reading
skills.
Genomic characterisation of an extended-spectrum β-Lactamase- producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolate assigned to a novel sequence type (6914)
Authors: Akinyemi Muiz O. , Oyedele Oluwawapelumi A. , Kleyn Mariska S. , Onarinde Bukola A. , Adeleke Rasheed A. , Ezekiel Chibundu N.
Published: March 2024

Background
Cow milk which is sometimes consumed raw host a plethora of microorganisms of beneficial or food safety concern. The draft genome of an extended-spectrum β-Lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae strain Cow102, isolated from cow milk used for production of traditional foods in Nigeria, is reported.
Result
The genome has a total length of 5,359,907 bp with 70 contigs and GC content of 57.35%. A total of 5,244 protein coding sequences were detected with 31% mapped to a subsystem, and genes coding for amino acids and derivatives being the most prevalent. Multilocus sequence typing revealed that the strain had new allelic profile assigned to the novel 6914 sequence type possessing capsular and lipopolysaccharide antigen K locus 122 with an unknown K type (KL122) and O locus O1/O2v2 with type O2afg, respectively. A total of 28 resistance-related genes, 98 virulence-related genes, two plasmids and five phages were identified in the genome. Comparative analysis indicated translocation was the most common structural rearrangements in the genome.
Conclusion
Whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis revealed new allelic profile, structural rearrangements, virulence and drug resistance factors in the genome, however, further studies are required to characterize the capsular K type oof Cow102.
A method to determine the availability and performance of air taxis in real weather conditions
Authors: Wortmann Lutz , Hagemann Stefan , Stumpf Eike
Published: March 2024

The success of an on-demand air taxi transportation system depends, in part, on its availability during daily operations. To further analyze such a system, this paper introduces a method for determining the availability and performance of air taxis under real weather conditions. Therefore, the integration of weather data from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF) and real trajectories into the mission analysis tool of the aircraft preliminary design software Multidisciplinary Integrated Conceptual Aircraft Design and Optimization Environment (MICADO) for small aircraft is carried out for the first time. This allows the estimation of the performance of air taxis under real weather and operating conditions already at the aircraft preliminary design stage and potential technical deficits can be identified at an early design stage. Two single engine, fixed-wing air taxi designs, one with a hybrid-electric powertrain and one with an all-electric powertrain, are investigated in this paper.
The results show that the availability is strongly limited by the visual meteorological conditions minima (VMC minima). The maximum availability of the short reference flight route between Nuernberg and Egelsbach is 41.78 % and the maximum availability of the long reference flight route between Augsburg and Moenchengladbach is 20.48 %. The availability of the hybrid-electric air taxi is not limited, as all investigated flights under sufficient VMC can be performed with this aircraft while complying with the required reserves. However, the availability of the all-electric air taxis is limited due to its performance. Because of adverse wind conditions, not all flights investigated under sufficient VMC can be performed with the all-electric air taxi while complying with the required reserves, as the energy demand is too high. For the all-electric air taxi, a 13.2 % increase in gravimetric battery energy density (GBED) is needed to ensure sufficient performance.
The findings indicate the necessity of considering the real operating conditions in the preliminary design of small aircraft. The methodology outlined in this paper assists in enhancing the robustness of preliminary aircraft designs.
Causal effects of education, intelligence, and income on COVID-19: evidence from a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Song Yuqing , Baranova Ancha , Cao Hongbao , Yue Weihua , Zhang Fuquan
Published: March 2024

Background
The protective effects of higher educational attainment (EA) and intelligence on COVID-19 outcomes are not yet understood with regard to their dependency on income. The objective of our study was to examine the overall as well as independent effects of the three psychosocial factors on the susceptibility to and severity of COVID-19. To accomplish this, we utilized genetic correlation, Mendelian randomization (MR), and multivariable MR (MVMR) analyses to evaluate genetic associations between EA, intelligence, household income, and three specific COVID-19 outcomes: SARS-CoV-2 infection, hospitalized COVID-19, and critical COVID-19.
Results
The genetic correlation analysis revealed that COVID-19 outcomes were negatively correlated with the three psychosocial factors (rg: -0.19‒-0.36). The MR analysis indicated that genetic liability to EA, intelligence, and income exerted overall protective effects on SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR: 0.86‒0.92), hospitalized COVID-19 (OR: 0.70‒0.80), and critical COVID-19 (OR: 0.65‒0.85). MVMR analysis revealed that elevated levels of EA conferred independent protective effects against SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR: 0.85), hospitalization due to COVID-19 (OR: 0.79), and critical COVID-19 (OR: 0.63). Furthermore, intelligence exhibited a negative association with the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR: 0.91), whereas a higher income was linked to an elevated risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR: 1.13).
Conclusions
Our findings indicated that EA could significantly reduce the risk and severity of COVID-19, regardless of intelligence and income. However, the impact of intelligence or income on COVID-19 severity was not supported by our research.
Reduction of CO 2 emissions by recycling low-potential heat from the Benfield CO 2 removal process at a natural gas hydrogen production plant
Authors: Hajduga Dawid , Chmielarz Lucjan , Bugdol Marek
Published: March 2024

The search for solutions to reduce carbon dioxide emissions is an extremely important issue today. The European Parliament’s ENVI Committee (Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety), focused on reducing CO2 emissions, is the largest committee in the Parliament. According to the Committee’s findings, for certain sectors of the economy, the number of free CO2 emission allowances will fall to 0 in 2035. This will entail a significant increase in production costs. There is little time to make changes, so it is necessary to concentrate all efforts on the most efficient methods. The purpose of this article is to present a proposal to reduce CO2 emissions by recycling low-potential heat from the Benfield CO2 removal process at a plant producing hydrogen from natural gas. The article presents a method for reducing CO2 in the overall process of producing hydrogen, a product widely used in the chemical sector, in particular in the manufacture of fertilisers, essential for feeding the population. The article discusses the use of low- temperature heat in the CO2 capture process with amines using the Benfield method with MVR systems. Heat recovery is hampered by the fact that the heat source is a mixture of carbon dioxide and steam. This causes a reduction in the partial pressure of steam, thus lowering its phase transition temperature and making heat recovery difficult. At present, the literature on the subject does not present any solution of this type. The presented analysis also includes economic calculations confirming the profitability of investing in the presented solution. The following research methods have been used in the study: a review of the relevant literature and an analysis of the whole technological process and its relations with other processes. The result of the conducted study is a solution allowing for the recovery of more than 89% of total heat exchanged from gas mixture after desorption column in Benfield CO2 capture process in hydrogen plant. Improvements in the reduction of heat losses directly linked to CO2 emissions reach 89%. In the future, highly efficient heat loss reduction methods will be the basis for maintaining the profitability of production operations.
Evaluation of effluent quality changes of household water purifiers: A case study of Ahvaz city
Authors: Mirsalari Seyedeh Tooba , Sasani Hossein , Azizipour Mohammad , Jaafarzadeh Neematollah
Published: March 2024

In some areas, the increase in surface water salts and the wear and tear of urban water distribution network pipes have caused citizens to turn to household water purification devices. However, if their filters are not replaced on time, the quality of the output water will decrease. In this study, the efficacy of three household water purifiers was evaluated over a one-year period in Ahvaz city. TDS, pH and total coliforms were measured monthly at both the inlet and outlet of all three systems. Furthermore, the study involved weekly observations of the color change on the surface of the first filters, in addition to monthly measurements of the turbidity of both the inlet and outlet water from their first filters. Based on the findings of this study, the absence of coliforms in their output was confirmed. Furthermore, within the initial month following the installation of the first filter, the turbidity of its output water exceeded admissible limit. By the second month, a maximum change in filter color was observed. Also, following two years of membrane installation, it is essential to regularly monitor the effluent TDS. If the TDS of output water exceeds the admissible limit at any point, it is imperative to replace the membrane filter. Additionally, post-membrane installation, the effluent's TDS measures less than 50 mg/l, indicating a potential risk of water acidification. Therefore it is advisable to regulate the effluent pH by adjusting the mixing valve or replacing the sixth filter.
Metabolomics analysis of patients with Schistosoma japonicum infection based on UPLC-MS method
Authors: Li Junhui , Jiang Jie , Zhu Yi , Zhang Yu , Zhu Jiang , Ming Yingzi
Published: March 2024

Background
Schistosomiasis is still one of the most serious parasitic diseases. Evidences showed that metabolite profile in serum has potential to act as markers for parasitic disease diagnosis, evaluation of disease progression and prognosis. However, the serum metabolome in patients with Schistosoma japonicum infection was not well-defined. In this study, we investigated the metabolite profiles of patients with chronic S. japonicum infection and those with advanced S. japonicum infection.
Methods
In this study, 15 patients with advanced S. japonicum infection, 33 patients with chronic S. japonicum infection and 17 healthy volunteers were included according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) was used to perform metabolomics analysis of serum samples from the participants.
Results
We observed significant differences in metabolite profiles in positive and negative ion modes between patients with advanced S. japonicum infection and patients with chronic S. japonicum infection. Compared with patients with chronic S. japonicum infection, we found that 199 metabolites were significantly up-regulated and 207 metabolites were significantly down-regulated in patients with advanced S. japonicum infection. These differential metabolites were mainly concentrated in steroid hormone biosynthesis, cholesterol metabolism and bile secretion pathways. We also found that certain bile acids levels were significantly up-regulated in the progression from chronic S. japonicum infection to advanced S. japonicum infection. In receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis, we identified 3 metabolites with AUC higher than 0.8, including GCA, GCDCA, and TCDCA, concentrated in cholesterol metabolism, biliary secretion, and primary bile acid biosynthesis.
Conclusions
This study provided evidences that glycocholic acid (GCA), glycochenodeoxycholate (GCDCA) and taurochenodeoxycholic acid (TCDCA) have potential to act as novel metabolite biomarkers to distinguish patients in different stages of S. japonicum infection. This study will contribute to the understanding of the metabolite mechanisms of the transition from chronic to advanced S. japonicum infection, although more studies are needed to validate this potential role and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Ab initio calculation of magnetic field induction of nanowires
Authors: Tawfik Sherif Abdulkader
Published: March 2024

The narrower a conductor is, the more significant is its induced magnetic field, the Ørsted magnetic field. The calculation of the Ørsted magnetic field in current-carrying wires is a standard textbook exercise that generally assumes that the wire has a circular cross-section, and applies a simplified form of the Biot-Savart equation. For non-circular cross-sections, such as infinitely thin or rectangular slabs, there are also simplified forms of the equation, but are less known. While such formalism can be suitable for macroscopic wire structures, it will not be ideal for nano-sized wire structures because of the presence of structural features that are likely to have significant consequences on the structure of the Ørsted magnetic field. This work introduces a novel approach for the prediction of the Ørsted magnetic field in a nanowire that combines the current magnetization hypothesis [Eur. Phys. J. Plus 137, 378 (2022)] with a molecular dynamics simulation approach using the electron force field. This formalism is applied in the present work for the prediction of the induced magnetic field in a lithium nanowire, and is shown to exhibit agreement with the Biot-Savart results. The formalism can be utilized for predicting the Ørsted magnetic field of more complex nano-conductors, as well as high-precision magnetic sensing for molecules.
Performance Analysis of Backpropagation Artificial Neural Networks with Various Activation Functions and Network Sizes
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Hamed
Published: March 2024

This paper conducts a comprehensive performance analysis of Back Propagation Artificial Neural Networks (BP-ANNs) utilizing various activation functions. Activation functions play a crucial role in shaping neural networks' behavior and learning capabilities. Through systematic evaluation across diverse network sizes (numbers of hidden layers and neurons), this study assesses the impact of commonly employed activation functions—such as Sigmoidalm, Tanh, Cloglog, Aranda, and others—on the convergence speed and accuracy of BP-ANNs. The findings provide empirical insights essential for optimizing neural network artificial intelligence architectures tailored to specific applications and datasets.
Morphological characterization of anterior axial bifurcation in Holothuria (Halodeima) grisea and other puzzling occurrences in Holothuroidea
Authors: Rupp Guilherme Sabino , Martins Luciana , Souto Camilla , Hamel Jean-François , Mercier Annie
Published: March 2024

The present study explores rare but taxonomically and geographically broad cases of anterior body axial bifurcation in adult sea cucumbers (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea). The case of Holothuria (Halodeima) grisea, a common intertidal species along the Brazilian coast, was studied externally and internally. Individuals of Apostichopus californicus in the United States of America, H. (Mertensiothuria) leucospilota in La Réunion (France), H. (Panningothuria) forskali in Spain, and Parastichopus tremulus in Norway, were also reported to display similar anterior body axial bifurcation. In each of them, the anterior body presented two mouths with their respective crown of tentacles. In vivo observations of H. (Halodeima) grisea showed that the two tentacle crowns and mouths were independently functional. Micro-computed tomography (μCT) revealed that the anterior region of the body (up to the pharynx) was duplicated. Internally, two aquapharyngeal bulbs were found, each with their own calcareous ring (one with two plates missing), madreporite, and Polian vesicles. The body presented a normal set of five longitudinal muscle bands, some of which bifurcated orally to support more than one calcareous ring plate. This is the first report of such abnormalities in Holothuroidea and hypotheses that may explain such phenomenon are discussed.
Nonlinear optimal control for supply chain networks under time-delays
Authors: Rigatos Gerasimos , Siani Pierluigi , Al-Numay Mohammed , Abbaszadeh Masoud , Liu Jie , Sarno Debora
Published: March 2024

The article proposes a nonlinear optimal control method for treating the control and stabilization problem of supply chain networks and inventories under time-delays. The state-space model of the supply chain network is considered to have as state variables the customer's demand and the inventories of the manufacturer, of the retailers and of the distributors. The control inputs of the model are the manufacturer's production and the retailer's ordering quantities. The model is subject to time-delays. It is proven that the dynamic model of the supply chain is differentially flat. This model undergoes approximate linearization around a temporary operating point that is recomputed at each time-step of the control method. The linearization relies on Taylor series expansion and on the associated Jacobian matrices. For the linearized state-space model of the supply chain a stabilizing optimal (H-infinity) feedback controller is designed. This controller stands for the solution to the nonlinear optimal control problem under model uncertainty and external perturbations. To compute the controller's feedback gains an algebraic Riccati equation is repetitively solved at each iteration of the control algorithm. The stability properties of the control method are proven through Lyapunov analysis. The method achieves fast and accurate tracking of the targeted setpoints by the state variables of the supply chain system under moderate variations of the control inputs.
Hidrogênio verde como fonte de energia renovável na indústria de mineração
Authors: Figueiredo Robson Lage , Ortiz Carlos Enrique Arroyo , Silva José Margarida
Published: March 2024

Na indústria de mineração, os equipamentos desempenham papel primordial na produção e operação, mas consomem quantidades significativas de energia, com destaque para os motores a diesel. Nas operações mineiras, esses motores são amplamente empregados devido à versatilidade, capacidade de carga e adaptabilidade a várias condições de terreno. No entanto, é importante observar também que apresentam alto consumo de óleo diesel e contribuem substancialmente para as emissões de gases de efeito estufa. Essa realidade ressalta a necessidade de explorar alternativas de energia renovável, como o hidrogênio verde, para reduzir o impacto ambiental e promover a sustentabilidade nas operações de mineração. Este artigo apresenta discussão do consumo de energia na mineração, das tecnologias de produção do hidrogênio, as vantagens em utilizar o hidrogênio em motores diesel e os desafios de produção, armazenamento e fornecimento. Destaca-se o hidrogênio verde, livre de carbono, alternativa emergente na descarbonização das minas.
Validação da narrativa interativa gamificada (NIG) jornada da Mel para a aprendizagem de matemática financeira.
Authors: Costa Juliana Evaristo , Rocha Francisco Bruno Nascimento da , Filho José Aires de Castro , Maia José Gilvan Rodrigues , Nascimento Gabriel Marques do
Published: March 2024

Ao longo das últimas décadas, as tecnologias digitais vêm ganhando destaque no contexto educacional. O presente artigo discute o conceito de Narrativas Interativas Gamificadas (NIGs) para denominar materiais em formato digital que utilizam elementos de jogos (e.g., narrativas e mecânicas) como meio de contextualizar situações-problemas. O estudo relata o desenvolvimento de uma NIG, chamada Jornada da Mel, tendo como objetos de conhecimento as habilidades e competências de matemática financeira. O objetivo principal é validar uma versão de testes da NIG com 6 estudantes de licenciatura em matemática. Os dados foram coletados a partir de um instrumento de Avaliação Técnica - Usabilidade, composto por dez questões objetivas baseada no System Usability Scale - SUS e três questões subjetivas abordando os pontos positivos, pontos negativos e sugestões de melhorias. Nas questões objetivas, a NIG obteve média de 76,25, sendo considerado um bom resultado pelas medidas de referência do instrumento. Em relação às questões subjetivas, os participantes indicaram como pontos positivos: a linguagem clara e de fácil entendimento, a narrativa da personagem principal, os conhecimentos complementares e a abordagem contextualizada de matemática financeira por meio de situações-problemas. Além disso, apontaram como sugestões para melhorias: a elaboração de um tutorial, uma interface que seja mais intuitiva quando o jogador se aproximar dos conhecimentos complementares e a implementação de um sistema de recompensas. Os dados obtidos permitiram perceber a boa aceitação da NIG pelos licenciandos e, ao mesmo tempo, apontar direcionamentos para o desenvolvimento da versão final.
Variational quantum gate optimization at the pulse level
Authors: Greenaway Sean , Petiziol Francesco , Hongzheng Zhao , Mintert Florian
Published: March 2024

We experimentally investigate the viability of a variational quantum gate optimization protocol informed by the underlying physical Hamiltonian of fixed-frequency transmon qubits. Through the successful experimental optimization of two and three qubit quantum gates the utility of the scheme for obtaining gates based on static effective Hamiltonians is demonstrated. The limits of such a strategy are investigated through the optimization of a time-dependent, Floquet-engineered gate, however parameter drift is identified as a key limiting factor preventing the implementation of such a scheme which the variational optimization protocol is unable to overcome.
Producción de hojarasca fina y aporte de nutrientes de especies vegetales dentro de arreglos silvopastoriles en el norte de Colombia
Authors: Martínez Judith , Osorio Nelson , Cajas Yasmín
Published: March 2024

El suelo y los pastizales en los sistemas pecuarios en la región del Caribe colombiano presentan problemas de degradación, que afectan la disponibilidad y la calidad del forraje, principalmente durante la estación seca. Los arreglos silvopastoriles son alternativas que pueden contribuir a mejorar esta situación, a través de la contribución de la hojarasca y su posterior descomposición. Sin embargo, para estos ambientes, se desconoce el efecto real de estos arreglos, y algunas de las especies de plantas utilizadas en el suelo. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la producción anual de hojarasca y el potencial anual de entrada de nutrientes de las especies de plantas dentro de arreglos silvopastoriles en comparación con un pastizal con pastos en el Valle Medio del río Sinú, Colombia. Para este propósito, utilizamos arreglos silvopastoriles multiespecíficos de 13 años en los que se instalaron trampas de arena, que se pesaron y analizaron periódicamente por su contenido de nutrientes. Los resultados mostraron que los arreglos silvopastoriles generan más hojarasca y nutrientes que los pastos de un pastizal sin árboles, y la contribución de la hojarasca de la especie es independiente del arreglo silvopastoril en el que se encuentra.
Effect of inoculation with nitrogen-fixing bacteria on the growth of Panicum maximum Jacq. under water stress conditions
Authors: Abril Castro Jorge Leonardo , Bonilla B. Ruth Rebeca , Roncallo Fandiño Belisario
Published: March 2024

En las áreas secas de la región caribeña de Colombia, la producción de forraje se ve afectada en términos de cantidad y calidad por condiciones de sequía presentadas durante períodos prolongados del año. La estación seca causa pérdidas en la alimentación y productividad de sistemas ganaderos. Muchas especies de bacterias nitrogenadas son asociadaa a diferentes plantas en la región, que pueden beneficiar el crecimiento y desarrollo de estas especies en condiciones de estrés hídrico. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto de la inoculación con bacterias nitrogenadas en el desarrollo de Panicum maximum Jacq. bajo condiciones de sequía.
Departamento de Cundinamarca : anexo 6
Authors: Villareal Héctor , Torres Octavio , Contreras Uriel Humberto , Cepeda Mónica , Guevara Martha Ligia , Herrera Heredia Carlos Alberto , Burgos Rodríguez Carlos Andrés , Moreno Valderrama María Nancy , Yepes Vargas Luz Andrea , Sánchez León Germán David , Osorio Cardona Jairo Antonio , Ramírez Durán Julio , Zuluaga Mogollón María Victoria , García Gómez Gustavo , Ibarra Ruth
Published: March 2024

El presente documento se preparó con el fin de proveer información básica sobre el desempeño de la cadena productiva, sus vínclos con la orientación de la ciencia, la tecnología y la innovación y las demandas del sector sobre conocimiento técnico, para superar problemas productivos, mejorar la competitividad, la sostenibilidad, aprovechar oportunidades de mercado, potenciar capacidades y focalizar la inversión pública. Esta información se consolidó a través del proceso de revisión y ajuste de la Agenda Dinámica Nacional de Investigación, Desarrollo Tecnológico e Innovación (Agenda I+D+i), como insumo para orientar las estrategias del PECTIA.
Factors Underlying Vaccine Hesitancy and Their Mitigations in Saudi Arabia: Protocol for a Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Kanan Mohammed , Abdulrahman Samar , Alshehri Abdulaziz , AlSuhaibani Renad , Alotaibi Nawaf M , Alsaleh Azhar , Nasser Bushra , Baowaydhan Rana , Alredaini Ibrahim , Khalid Taif , Almukhtar Fatima , Altoaimi Nourah , Alhneshel Almaha , Alanazi Shouq , Algmaizi Shahad
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Vaccine hesitancy is a growing concern in Saudi Arabia, impacting even well-educated parents. The decision-making process involves various factors such as accessibility, trustworthy information, and the influence of social networks, reflecting a complex interplay of emotional, cultural, social, spiritual, and political dimensions.

OBJECTIVE

This review seeks to evaluate the prevalence and trends of vaccine hesitancy, identify contributing factors, and explore potential solutions to enhance immunization rates. This review aligns with global concerns, as the World Health Organization has identified vaccine hesitancy as a top global health threat.

METHODS

Our systematic review will follow the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study) criteria for comprehensive assessment. We will conduct a thorough search across various databases, encompassing a wide range of vaccines, and pay special attention to vaccination campaigns and refusals. Inclusion criteria involve descriptive, observational, and analytical studies focusing on factors influencing vaccine acceptance or hesitancy. The study will use the Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool for quality assessment and perform a narrative synthesis to summarize findings thematically.

RESULTS

This systematic review is expected to unveil the prevalence and trends of vaccine hesitancy in diverse populations in Saudi Arabia, shedding light on cultural, religious, and social factors contributing to hesitancy. It aims to assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies, enable regional and global comparisons, and provide implications for tailored vaccination policies. Additionally, the review may pinpoint research gaps, guiding future investigations to address and mitigate vaccine hesitancy effectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings are expected to have direct policy implications and guide interventions to strengthen vaccination programs and improve public health outcomes.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/54680
An acceptability and feasibility study of the We Can Do This web-app in Australian primary care and residential rehabilitation settings for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who use methamphetamine (Preprint)
Authors: Sivak Leda , Reilly Rachel , Crumpen Shani , Treloar Carla , McKetin Rebecca , Butt Julia , Roe Yvette , Ezard Nadine , Quinn Brendan , Nagle Jack , Longbottom Wade , Warrior Clifford , Ward James
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

We Can Do This was a web-based application (web-app) developed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are seeking to reduce or stop methamphetamine use.

OBJECTIVE

This paper reports on a process evaluation of the web-app’s acceptability and feasibility when used by clients and clinicians in residential rehabilitation services and primary care.

METHODS

Clinicians and clients who had used the web-app were recruited via Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and Aboriginal residential rehabilitation services in urban and regional Victoria and South Australia. Non-identified usage data was collected from all participants. After using the web-app, those who indicated a willingness to be interviewed were contacted and interviewed by phone or in person and asked about the feasibility and acceptability of the web-app.

RESULTS

Interviews with ten clients and eleven clinicians highlighted that both clients and clinicians found the content coherent, relatable, empowering and culturally safe. Barriers to using the web-app for clients included a lack of internet connectivity and personal issues such as scheduling.

CONCLUSIONS

Process evaluation is often under-valued. However, as We Can Do This was new, innovative and targeted a hard-to-reach population, understanding its feasibility and acceptability as a clinical tool was essential to understanding its potential. We Can Do This is unique as the only evidence-based, culturally appropriate online therapeutic program specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who use methamphetamine. Findings suggest it was both acceptable and feasible as a low-cost adjunct to usual care in residential rehabilitation and primary care settings.
Mapping the Lava Flood Hazard Using the Flood Discharge Approach and 2D Hydrodynamic Modeling at the Rejali River, Mount Semeru
Authors: Prawira Akbar Bagus , Hidayah Entin , Wiyono Retno Utami Agung
Published: March 2024

In December 2021, Mount Semeru experienced an eruption accompanied by extreme rainfall, which resulted in lava floods, known as lahars or debris flows. The lava flood destroyed infrastructure, resulting in loss of life. Various rivers surrounding Mount Semeru, including the Rejali River, experienced the effects of this phenomenon. To address this, a study is needed to analyze the occurrence and frequency of lava floods over specific time intervals through the creation of a hazard map. This study aims to map the hazard of lava floods for various return periods using a coupled HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS software alongside a lava flood discharge approach. The HEC-HMS software is used to simulate hydrological processes, to obtain the lava flood discharge, while the HEC-RAS is used to model a two-dimensional (2D) lava flood hazard map. The input parameters of the modeling in this study are rainfall intensity, soil type, land cover, river distance, slope, and elevation. The results show that the flood area covers 9.55% of the total study area by 2 year return period (Q2), 11.80% by Q10, 14.10% by Q50, and 15.72% by Q200 with an overall validation Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.16. These changes are determined by the discharge volume from each return phase and the river's shallow depth, which causes overflow beyond the river's ability to accommodate the flow. Thus, this study suggests that the models successfully generated a reliable model for mapping the risk of lava floods on the Rejali River. These findings can help the government reduce disaster losses through adequate adaptation and mitigation initiatives.
Sanxingdui Archaeology and Cultural Publicity
Authors: MOU Xilin , HE Jiingyan , JIA Zhaoyang , Deng Qingxin , RAO Guohui
Published: March 2024

This paper deeply discusses the archaeology and culture of Sanxingdui, and systematically analyzes the importance of the archaeological site from multiple perspectives. Sanxingdui archaeology is one of the most important archaeological discoveries in Chinese history, which shows the unique charm of the ancient Shu civilization through its rich cultural relics and valuable cultural relics. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the external publicity problems of Sanxingdui archaeology and culture, analyze its current situation and challenges, and propose corresponding solutions. Promote Sanxingdui culture through effective Sanxingdui marketing strategies, and attract more tourists to visit Sanxingdui site, so that it can better spread the important value and cultural connotation of Sanxingdui, and enhance its international visibility and influence.
Calculation and Design of Reagent Activator
Authors: Dushkin Stanislav
Published: March 2024

The problems of analysis and design of the activator reagent used to improve natural water purification in water systems. The questions of calculation and planning of the activator reagents, which used for the increase of efficiency of treatment of natural waters in the water systems, are examined.
Research on the Design Application of Cantonese Opera Art in Primary School from the CTML: An Example of Guangzhou Huadu Qixing
Authors: Hsieh Ya-Hui , Geng Xiaoman , Wang Ruei-Yuan
Published: March 2024

With the progress of the times and social changes, more and more people are realizing the necessity of inheriting intangible cultural heritage and their contribution to the content of school art education. This study aims to explore the integration and development of the design and application of Cantonese opera art in primary school art education. Drawing on the cognitive framework of American psychologist Richard Mayer's multimedia learning theory, this study takes Guangzhou Huadu Qixing Primary School as the research object and conducts pilot teaching in the form of extracurricular activities recruited by art interest groups. Empirical research is conducted through questionnaires and participatory observation methods. Research has shown that integrating Cantonese opera art into primary school art classrooms not only enhances students' sense of identification and pride in traditional culture, but also enhances their creativity in applying Cantonese opera art design. During the experimental teaching process, it was found that the current integration and development of Cantonese opera art through art education is still weak, due to insufficient protection of school art teaching resources and a serious lack of school art teachers. Therefore, optimization strategies for experimental teaching are proposed: firstly, to strengthen the promotion of school culture and resource sharing with local art museums; secondly, to adopt diverse teaching methods to increase students' interest in learning Cantonese opera; and third, to build excellent teacher training for Cantonese opera art.