bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALYSIS OF THE RAIL CARGO TRANSPORT VOLUME IN POLAND IN 2010-2021
Authors: MACIOSZEK Elżbieta
Published: June 2023

Rail transport is one of the branches of transport included in the group of land transport, and its operation is related to the transport of people and cargo by means of rail transport on a specially designated railroad built for this purpose. The article presents the classification of transported cargo in rail transport, the characteristics of the rail transport market in Europe, as well as the results of the analysis of the rail transport volume in Poland in 2010-2021. This analysis included an assessment of the following features: mass of transported cargo, performed transport and operational work, the average distance of cargo transport for a group of cargo transported by rail and the volume of intermodal transport. The obtained results allowed to conclude that the transport of goods by rail is systematically increasing. Moreover, intermodal transport is developing well.
Sintesis dan Karakterisasi Silika Gel Dari Limbah Batu Akik Asal Desa Nian Kabupaten Timor Tengah Utara Menggunakan Metode Sol Gel
Authors: Landi Pote Lodowik , Sanam Putra Reinho Rosario , Latumakulita Gertreda
Published: June 2023

Penelitian tentang sintesis dan karakterisasi silika gel dari limbah batu akik asal Desa Nian Kabupaten Timor Tengah Utara menggunakan metode sol gel telah dilakukan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui komposisi kimia, karakteristik silika gel yang disintesis dari limbah batu akik asal Desa Nian Kabupaten Timor Tengah Utara yang dapat digunakan sebagai sumber sintesis silika gel. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode sol gel. Penelitian ini diawali dengan pencucian serbuk limbah batu akik dengan HCl 2 M untuk menghilangkan unsur-unsur pengotor. Selanjut ekstraksi silika dilakukan dengan mereaksikan dengan NaOH 3 M untuk memperoleh natrium silikat. Natrium silikat yang diperoleh selanjutnya disintesis menjadi silika gel dengan menambahkan HCl 3 M tetes demi tetes sampai pH netral. Silika gel hasil sintesis dianalisis komposisi dengan XRF dan dikarakterisasi dengan XRD dan FTIR.  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa komposisi kimia serbuk limbah batu akik dengan XRF diperoleh Si 35,6 % dan kandungan terbesar adalah Ca yaitu 54,3 %. Silika gel hasil sintesis memiliki kemurnian adalah SiO2 99,1 % dan Si 97,6 %. Hasil karakterisasi dengan XRD menunjukkan silika gel hasil sintesis berbentuk fasa amorf dan hasil karakterisasi gugus fungsi dengan FTIR menunjukkan adanya gugus fungsi siloksan dan silanol.

Kata kunci: Sintesis, silika gel dan karakterisasi.
Identification of the E2F1-RAD51AP1 axis as a key factor in MGMT-methylated GBM TMZ resistance
Authors: Zhou Junhu , Tong Fei , Zhao Jixing , Cui Xiaoteng , Wang Yunfei , Wang Guangxiu , Kang Chunsheng , Liu Xiaomin , Wang Qixue
Published: June 2023

Objective: Epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) is a constitutively-activated mutation of EGFR that contributes to the malignant progression of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Temozolomide (TMZ) is a standard chemotherapeutic for GBM, but TMZ treatment benefits are compromised by chemoresistance. This study aimed to elucidate the crucial mechanisms leading to EGFRvIII and TMZ resistance. Methods: CRISPR-Cas13a single-cell RNA-seq was performed to thoroughly mine EGFRvIII function in GBM. Western blot, real-time PCR, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence were used to determine the chemoresistance role of E2F1 and RAD51-associated protein 1 (RAD51AP1). Results: Bioinformatic analysis identified E2F1 as the key transcription factor in EGFRvIII-positive living cells. Bulk RNA-seq analysis revealed that E2F1 is a crucial transcription factor under TMZ treatment. Western blot suggested enhanced expression of E2F1 in EGFRvIII-positive and TMZ-treated glioma cells. Knockdown of E2F1 increased sensitivity to TMZ. Venn diagram profiling showed that RAD51AP1 is positively correlated with E2F1, mediates TMZ resistance, and has a potential E2F1 binding site on the promoter. Knockdown of RAD51AP1 enhanced the sensitivity of TMZ; however, overexpression of RAD51AP1 was not sufficient to cause chemotherapy resistance in glioma cells. Furthermore, RAD51AP1 did not impact TMZ sensitivity in GBM cells with high O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) expression. The level of RAD51AP1 expression correlated with the survival rate in MGMT-methylated, but not MGMT-unmethylated TMZ-treated GBM patients. Conclusions: Our results suggest that E2F1 is a key transcription factor in EGFRvIII-positive glioma cells and quickly responds to TMZ treatment. RAD51AP1 was shown to be upregulated by E2F1 for DNA double strand break repair. Targeting RAD51AP1 could facilitate achieving an ideal therapeutic effect in MGMT-methylated GBM cells.
Design of Antenna Polarization Plane for Concurrent Uplink/Downlink Drone Networks
Authors: Tran Gia Khanh , Okada Takuma
Published: June 2023

In recent years, drones have been used in a wide range of fields such as agriculture, transportation of goods, and security. Drones equipped with communication facilities are expected to play an active role as base stations in areas where ground base stations are unavailable, such as disaster areas. In addition, asynchronous operation is being considered for local 5G in order to support all kinds of use cases. In asynchronous operation, cross-link interference between base stations is an issue. This paper attempts to reduce the interference caused by the drone network by introducing circularly polarized antennas. Numerical analyses are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed system, where SIRs (Signal-to-Interference Ratio) are shown to be improved significantly as the numerical evaluation results.
Reaching Universal Coverage of Water and Sanitation Services: Is Regionalization a Sustainable Path for Developing Countries?
Authors: Narzetti Willian , Pinto Francisco Silva , Narzetti Daniel , Cetrulo Tiago
Published: June 2023

Achieving universal access to water and sanitation services in developing countries requires a coherent legal, political, and institutional environment, along with a clear financial strategy. Regionalizing utilities may be crucial for addressing disparities, economic inequalities, and governance challenges. Regionalization offers economies of scale, resource efficiency, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. The cornerstone will be ensuring the financial-economic viability of regional utilities, considering their social impacts in terms of affordability. The State of Santa Catarina case study is assessed. In the case of Santa Catarina, only four regional utilities currently generate sufficient revenue, without factoring in necessary investments, indicating the need to review design parameters to improve operational efficiency and increase revenues. Additional financial support may be required to ensure universal access. Tariff adjustments must strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and affordability for families.
Exploring First-time & Repeat Volunteer Scuba Divers’ Environmentally Responsible Behaviors Based on the C-A-B Model
Authors: Lin Jan-Wei , Tsao Hsiao-Chang
Published: June 2023

Volunteer scuba divers have become indispensable stakeholders in marine environmental protection, as their educational knowledge and environmental awareness create environmentally responsible attitudes and behaviors, which are the key elements to promote the sustainable development of marine environments. This study used the C-A-B model to examine the relationship between environmental knowledge, environmental sensitivity, destination social responsibility, and environmentally responsible behaviors of volunteer scuba divers. It also explored the mediating effects of destination social responsibility and first-time and repeat volunteers. In order to achieve the research purpose, this study adopted quantitative research to verify the research structure, proposed the hypotheses and prepared a questionnaire with reference to relevant previous studies. A total of 238 Taiwan marine volunteer scuba divers were selected as the subjects by intentional sampling, and the effective questionnaire recovery rate is 92.9%. Structural equation was used to verify the model of environmentally responsible behaviors of volunteer scuba divers, as based on the C-A-B model. This study found that environmental knowledge had a significant impact on destination social responsibility, and destination social responsibility had a significant impact on environmentally responsible behaviors. Destination social responsibility also had the effect of complete mediation on the model. In addition, the first-time and repeat volunteers had a significant mediating effect on the causal relationship between environmental knowledge and environmentally responsible behaviors, as well as between environmental sensitivity and environmentally responsible behaviors. The explanatory power of the overall model on the environmentally responsible behaviors of volunteer scuba divers is 69.0%, and their knowledge, sense of responsibility, experience, and level of involvement can be regarded as the determinants of their environmentally responsible behaviors.
Perceptions of Canadian Radiation Oncologists, Medical Physicists, and Radiation Trainees about the Feasibility and Need of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) in Canada: A National Survey
Authors: Al-Bader Al-Retage , Agapito John , Pan Ming
Published: June 2023

Background: Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is an emerging radiotherapy. There are ongoing efforts to develop a Canadian accelerator-based BNCT center. However, it remains unclear how Canadian radiation oncologists (RO), medical physicists (MP), and their trainees perceive BNCT and its impact on radiation oncology as a discipline. Methods: A survey was created to explore knowledge of BNCT, its clinical role, and support for Canadian research. It was distributed through the Canadian Association of Radiation Oncology (CARO) and Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists (COMP). Results: We received 118 valid responses from all 10 provinces, from 70 RO (59.3%) and 48 MP (40.7%), including 9 residents. Most knew of BNCT and its indications (60.2%). Although many were unaware of reasons behind early failures (44.1%), common reasons were lack of clinical trials and inaccessibility of neutron sources (42.4%) and reactor unsuitability (34.7%). Additionally, 90.6% showed definite (66.9%) or possible (23.7%) support for Canadian BNCT research, while 89% indicated definite (56.8%) or possible (32.2%) willingness for BNCT referrals. Conclusions: Most RO and MP supported Canadian BNCT research and would refer patients. However, limited awareness and lack of experiences remain a challenge. Educational sessions are needed to realize this innovative cancer treatment in Canada.
A Testing Framework for AI Linguistic Systems (testFAILS)
Authors: Kumar Yulia , Morreale Patricia , Sorial Peter , Delgado Justin , Li J. Jenny , Martins Patrick
Published: June 2023

This paper presents an innovative testing framework, testFAILS, designed for the rigorous evaluation of AI Linguistic Systems, with a particular emphasis on various iterations of ChatGPT. Leveraging orthogonal array coverage, this framework provides a robust mechanism for assessing AI systems, addressing the critical question, "How should we evaluate AI?" While the Turing test has traditionally been the benchmark for AI evaluation, we argue that current publicly available chatbots, despite their rapid advancements, have yet to meet this standard. However, the pace of progress suggests that achieving Turing test-level performance may be imminent. In the interim, the need for effective AI evaluation and testing methodologies remains paramount. Our research, which is ongoing, has already validated several versions of ChatGPT, and we are currently conducting comprehensive testing on the latest models, including ChatGPT-4, Bard and Bing Bot, and the LLaMA model. The testFAILS framework is designed to be adaptable, ready to evaluate new bot versions as they are released. Additionally, we have tested available chatbot APIs and developed our own application, AIDoctor, utilizing the ChatGPT-4 model and Microsoft Azure AI technologies
The Influence of the Alkyd Composite Coatings with Polyaniline Doped by Different Organic Acids on the Corrosion of Mild Steel
Authors: Grgur Branimir N. , Popović Aleksandra S. , Salem Ayad
Published: June 2023

The composite coatings prepared by mixing the 5 wt.% of polyaniline with commercial alkyd-based paint are applied on carbon steel. The polyaniline emeraldine chloride salt is prepared by procedure recommended by IUPAC, deprotonated by ammonia hydroxide, and reprotonated with the sulfamic, succinic, citric, and acetic acids with different doping degrees or oxidation states. The steel samples with base and composite coatings are immersed in 3% NaCl and the corrosion current density is determined after 96 h in-site using ASTM 1,10-phenanthroline method. The samples are also inspected by the optical microscope. It is shown that composite coatings reduce the possibility of blister formations and delamination. The corrosion current density and the appearance of the corrosion products, which area is determined by ImageJ softer, closely follow the initial oxidation state of the polyaniline. The role of the initial state of the polyaniline is discussed. It is suggested that such behavior could be connected with the oxygen reduction reaction mechanism that proceeds mainly via two electron paths on the polyaniline particles, releasing a much smaller amount of hydroxyl ions, responsible for the delamination and blister formations of the commercial coatings.
Phenol-Furfural Resin/Graphite/Ag Based Electrically Conductive Adhesive Composites from Waste Bagasse with Enhanced Thermo-Electric Properties
Authors: Zehra Syeda , Bibi Maryam , Mahmood Azhar , Khattak Abraiz , Asad Muhammad , Zehra Syeda
Published: June 2023

This study endeavors the preparation and evaluation of Phenol Furfural Resin (PFR) from bagasse and its nanocomposites for Electrically Conductive Adhesives (ECAs) application. PFR was prepared with the furfural extracted from bagasse using modified acid digestion method. Three different formulations of PFR nanocomposites with conductive nanoparticles i.e., PFR-silver, PFR-graphite, and PFR-silver + graphite were prepared using 20-60 w/w% of fillers via impregnation method. Resultant products were characterized by FT-IR, SEM, EDS and XRD spectroscopy. Electrical conductivity was measured using four probe technique while band gap was calculated via Tauc plot. Virgin PFR has shown poor conductivity up to 2.6 × 10-4 Scm-1 while the highest conductivity achieved was 8.2 × 10-1 Scm-1 for nanocomposite constituted silver, graphite, and PFR with 40:30:20 ratios respectively. This synergism was exhibited because graphite and Ag NPs supply excellent junctions for building networks. Both tend to coalesce due to van der Waals forces and high surface energies, therefore conductive pathways numbers can be increased, and contact area can be effectively enlarged. This ternary composite has exhibited the lowest bandgap energy value i.e., 3.1 eV. Thermogravimetric temperatures T0 and Tdeg values were increased up to 120 °C and 484 °C respectively, showing significant increase in thermal stability. Therefore, the resultant nanocomposite material has good potential to be employed as ECAs in electronic industry.
SLO3: A Conserved Regulator of Sperm Membrane Potential
Authors: Lyon Maximilian D. , Ferreira Juan J. , Li Ping , Bhagwat Shweta , Butler Alice , Anderson Kelsey , Polo Maria , Santi Celia M.
Published: June 2023

Sperm cells must undergo a complex maturation process after ejaculation to be able to fertilize an egg. One component of this maturation is hyperpolarization of the membrane potential to a more negative value. The ion channel responsible for this hyperpolarization, SLO3, was first cloned in 1998, and since then much progress has been made to determine how the channel is regulated and how its function intertwines with various signaling pathways involved in sperm maturation. Although SLO3 was originally thought to be present only in the sperm of mammals, recent evidence suggests that a primordial form of the gene is more widely expressed in some fish species. As with many reproductive genes, SLO3 is rapidly evolving with low conservation between closely related species and different regulatory and pharmacological profiles. Despite these differences, SLO3 appears to have a conserved role in regulating sperm membrane potential and driving large changes in response to stimuli. As with the differences in regulation of the channel, the effect of this hyperpolarization of the membrane potential may vary among mammalian species. Recent discoveries have elucidated the role of SLO3 in these processes in human sperm and provided tools to target the channel to affect human fertility.
First Report of the Plastid Genome of Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima (poro-poro) from Huánuco, Peru
Authors: Aliaga Flavio , Zapata-Cruz Mario , Valverde-Zavaleta Silvia Ana
Published: June 2023

Poro-poro is an important native fruit used in traditional Peruvian medicine with relevant agro-industrial and pharmaceutical potential for its antioxidant capacity for human health. However, to date, there have been few genetic studies. The lack of genomic exploration limits the possibility of expanding our knowledge of its molecular evolution, new molecular pathways, genetic traits, and evolutionary relationships. Here, we report the plastid sequence generated on the Illumina system platform using 26 Passiflora genomes and 1 outgroup from the NCBI database, and the reconstructed phylogenetic relationship. Our phylogenetic analysis showed that poro-poro is most closely related to Passiflora menispermifolia and Passiflora oertedii. In summary, our study provides the basis for developing new molecular markers that constitutes a valuable resource for studying molecular evolution and domestication. It also provides a powerful foundation for conservation genetics research and plant breeding programs. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the plastid genome of Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima from Peru.
Diversity of Indigenous Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Yeast Strains in Cabernet Sauvignon Fermentations From “Utiel-Requena” (Spain) Region as a Resource to Improve Wine Distinctiveness
Authors: Berbegal Carmen , Ferrer Sergi , Polo Lucia , Pardo Isabel , García María José , Andrés Lorena , Álvarez María Inmaculada , Lizama Victoria
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize autochthonous Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeasts from Cabernet Sauvignon grape must and to analyze how they impacted the final characteristics of the wines obtained from the same must type. This work was carried out in a “Pago” winery located in Requena, Spain. Twenty-two isolates were obtained from grape must. After molecular identification and typing, 11 different strains were determined.
Growth-related parameters and metabolic characteristics (glucose and fructose consumption, and ethanol, glycerol and acetic acid production) were determined by laboratory-scale fermentations (50 mL) of Cabernet Sauvignon must. From 2 L fermentation batches, residual sugar, density, ethanol concentration, titratable and volatile acidities, pH, and polyphenolic and volatile compounds were determined, as well as the sensory attributes of the produced wines. Differences between strains in the growth and metabolic parameters were observed. Eleven S. cerevisiae strain profiles were characterized to establish which strain or strains of the selected yeasts would produce the highest polyphenolic and aromatic concentration of the red Cabernet wines made in the “Pago winery” to then multiply them for their use to make the red wines of this winery.
Dynamical Analysis of an Age-Structured Sveir Model With Imperfect Vaccine
Authors: Wang Yanshu , Zhang Hailiang
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes an imperfectly vaccinated SVEIR model for latent age. We calculate the equilibrium points and basic reproduction number of the model. The asymptotic smoothness, uniform persistence and the existence of the attractor of the semi-flow generated by the solutions of the system are addressed. Moreover, using LaSalle’s invariance set principle and constructing Volterra-type Lyapunov functions, we can prove the global asymptotic stability of both the disease-free equilibrium and the endemic equilibrium of the model. The conclusion is that if the basic reproduction number R0 is less than one, the disease will gradually disappear. On the other hand, if the number is greater than one, the disease will become endemic and persist. Finally, measures that can effectively control the ongoing transmission of the disease have been obtained.
Effectiveness and Safety of Glucosamine in Osteoarthritis: A Literature Review
Authors: Vo Nam Xuan , Le Ngan Nguyen Hoang , Chu Trinh Dang Phuong , Pham Huong Lai , Dinh Khang Xuan An , Che Uyen Thi Thuc , Ngo Thanh Thi Thanh , Bui Tien Thuy
Published: June 2023

Knee osteoarthritis is the most popular type of osteoarthritis that causes extreme pain in elderly. Currently there is no cure for osteoarthritis. To lessen clinical symptoms, glucosamine was suggested. The primary goal of our study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of glucosamine from recent studies. Electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane were used to assess RCT. From the beginning through March 2023, the papers were checked, and if they fulfilled the inclusion criteria, they were then examined. WOMAC and VAS scales were considered as main outcome measure. A total of 15 studies were selected. Global pain was significantly decreased in comparison to placebo, as measured by the VAS index, with an overall effect size SMD of -7.41 ([95% CI] 14.31, 0.51). The WOMAC scale confirmed that pain, stiffness, and physical function had improved, however the effects were insufficient. A statistical update also revealed that there were no reports of serious medication interactions or significant adverse events. To summarize, glucosamine is more effective than a placebo at reducing pain in knee osteoarthritis patients. In long-term treatment, oral glucosamine sulfate 1500 mg/day is believed to be well tolerated.
Transmission of Rubella and Risk of Congenital Rubella Syndrome (Crs) in Pregnant Women during Prenatal Consultation at the Sino – Gabonese Friendship Hospital in Franceville
Authors: Adelaïde Nieguitsila , Sima Cedric Obiang , Ndong Mba Thiéry , Mba Kervaly Pierre Bithegue , Nzamba Ulrich , Kenguele Hilaire Moundounga , Pambo Pambo Arnaud Brice , Cyrille Bisseye Cyrille , Mickala Patrick
Published: June 2023

Objectives: Pregnant women represent a population category at high risk of severe rubella infection, capable of adversely affecting their fetus. This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of anti-rubella antibodies in pregnant women seen in prenatal consultations at the Sino-Gabonese Friendship Hospital in Franceville
Patients and Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Sino-Gabonese Friendship Hospital in Franceville, from April 3 to July 27, 2023. Using a structured and pre-established questionnaire, sociodemographic and obstetrical characteristics were obtained... Three milliliters of blood were collected from participants to measure rubella-specific IgG antibody levels using the OnSite Rapid Test Rubella IgG/IgM COMBO lateral flow immunochromatographic assay. Results were considered significant at p≤0.05.
Results: The study included 107 pregnant women seen in prenatal consultations. With a mean age of 27.9±7.1 years, anti-Rubella IgG antibodies were found in 87 pregnant women, indicating an overall seroprevalence of 81.30% (95% CI: [0.72 - 0.87). Of these, 6.9% (n = 6) of the women were serum anti-Rubivirus IgM carriers. In univariate analysis, it was indicated that pregnant women in the study aged between 21-30 years (OR =0.33; 95% CI: [0.12-0.9] p=0.0027), student (OR =6.35; 95% CI: [1.39-29.09] p=0.001), or without professional status (OR =0.05; 95% CI: [0.01- 0.27] p<0.001), high school education (OR =8.24; 95% CI: [2.83-23.96] p<0.001), single (OR =0.3; 95% CI: [0.11-0.85] p=0.0021) or cohabiting OR =3.91; 95% CI: [1.21-12.64] p=0.0017) Residing in an urban area (OR =49; 95% CI: [1.43-16.75] p=0.006), in the first trimester of their pregnancy (OR = 0.29; 95% CI: [0.09-0.94] p= 0.033), with a history of spontaneous abortion (OR = 0.09; 95% CI: [1.04; 11.30] p= 0. 037), and unvaccinated (OR = 0.13; 95% CI: [0.05; 0.13] p<0.000), had an elevated risk of Rubella, After adjusting for risk factors by logistic regression, residence in a rural area (ORA = 139.87 95% CI : [1.74 -11236.216] p=0.027),and no vaccination (ORA = 43.3 95% CI: [1.13 -1662.7] p= 0.043), were identified as the only significant risk factors for Rubella for the present study population
Conclusion: The high rate of susceptibility to rubella among pregnant women in the present study indicates that any short-term vaccination strategy aimed at reducing the number of susceptible women of childbearing age is imperative
Carbon Capture Using Porous Silica Materials
Authors: Amaraweera Sumedha M , Gunathilake Chamila A. , Gunawardene Oneesha H.P. , Dassanayake Rohan S. , Cho Eun-Bum , Du Yanhai
Published: June 2023

As the major greenhouse gas, CO2 gas emission has been noticeably increased over the past decades resulting in global warming and climate change. As a result, it is imperative to reduce the excess CO2 in the atmosphere to hold “the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C (ideally 1.5°C) above pre-industrial levels set by the Paris Agreement on climate change. Among many ways, CO2 capture technology is considered as the most promising technology among the available technologies. Porous materials such as carbons, silica, zeolites, hollow fibers, and alumina are widely used as CO2 sorbents. However, among the available porous sloid sorbents, porous silica-based materials grabbed a significant attention due to their unique properties including high surface area, pore volume, good thermal and mechanical stability, and low cost. Therefore, development of porous silica materials as a promising CO2 absorbent is a continuously expanding research area in the current moment. Herein, we aim to visualize a full picture of the porous silica-based materials for CO2 capture. This review presents a comprehensive study of existing CO2 capture techniques and highlights the recent progress of different porous silica materials and synthesis processes. CO2 adsorption capacities of unmodified porous silica materials are less effective as compared with functionalized silica materials. Various research activities have been reported about functionalization of pours silica using amine groups. Therefore, in this review, different synthesis routes of amine-functionalized porous silica materials, CO2 adsorption capacities, gas selectivity and reusability were discussed. Moreover, the research challenges associated with the porous silica materials and future research directions are summarized.
Survivals of Bacteriophage T4 in Quasi-Pure Ionic Solutions
Authors: Hara Seiko , Koike Isao
Published: June 2023

The preservative qualities of individual ionic compounds on the infectivity of T4 virions were elucidated. T4 virions were immersed in quasi-pure ionic solutions prior to the adsorption process, and the pfu values of these were measured following the conventional method. In neutral ionic solutions, the minimum and the optimum concentrations for preservative qualities were corresponded with the results obtained from the multi-ionic media/buffers. In acid and alkali solutions, phages show tolerances at a pH range of 5-11 in multi-ionic media/buffers. T4 virions show no tolerance in quasi-pure acid, neutral and weak alkaline conditions. The preservative quality of T4 virions was jumped up in over 10-1 mM OH- solution, equivalent to pH value over 10, which is corresponding to the pKa of the deprotonation of the DNA bases G and T. Infectivity was lost below 10-1 mM OH- and higher than 10 mM OH-. These results implicate the maintaining of infectivity of a virion may need the flexibility of the intra-capsid DNA by deprotonation.
A Free Space Material Measurement System
Authors: Sivakumar Renukka , Azemi Saidatul Norlyana , Yengseng Lee , Yeow You Kok , Jack Soh Ping
Published: June 2023

One of the most popular techniques for determining electrical properties of material is the free-space measurement technique. With the potential for new applications requiring efficient, accurate and broadband material measurement systems using higher millimeter-wave and terahertz frequencies, the free-space measurement method has received renewed interest. This is mainly due to its simplicity, favorable properties as a non-destructive method, and it allows transmission and reflection measurements without any physical contact with the sample. This paper reviews and discusses state- of-the-art free space material measurement systems, starting with the different measurement techniques available for material characterization, their important concepts, post-processing in determining their properties, and progress towards expanding their use at higher frequencies. Also, this paper reviews dielectric material characterization using the free space method focusing on their application extension towards the higher frequencies. Besides, the algorithms for conversion methods and usage of lens in free space material measurement system was discussed in this paper. Finally, a future perspective on the outlook of this free space method is presented prior to the conclusion.
Performance Improvement of a Solar Assisted Absorption Cooling System Integrated with Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Migla Lana , Bogdanovics Raimonds , Lebedeva Kristina
Published: June 2023

Phase change materials (PCMs) have emerged as promising solutions for latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) systems, offering considerable potential for storing energy derived from renewable sources across various engineering applications. The present study focused on optimization of solar cooling system by integrating LHTES with different PCM tank configuration. TRNSYS simulation software was selected for the study and collected experimental data from laboratory system prototype was used for system validation. The results indicate that the use of PCM led to a noteworthy decrease of 6.2% in auxiliary energy consumption. Furthermore, the duration during which the heat carrier temperature flow exceeded 90°C from the storage tank to the auxiliary heater was extended by 27.8% when PCM was utilized, compared to its absence. The use of PCM in LHTES is more effective under variable weather conditions. On the day when changes in weather conditions were observed, around 98% of the cooling load was provided by produced sun energy. The results of the research can be used to optimize the solar cooling system, which will help reduce the environmental impact of cooling systems running on non-renewable fuels.
Recent Mechanistic Understanding of Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis on Fe-Carbide
Authors: Chai Jiachun , Jiang Jidong , Gong Yan , Wu Peng , Wang Annan , Zhang Xuebing , Wang Tao , Meng Xiangkun , Lin Quan , Lv Yijun , Men Zhuowu , Wang Peng
Published: June 2023

With an increase in energy consumption globally, Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis is a good alternative for producing fuels and chemicals from coal, natural gas or biomass. Among them, coal to liquids has been put into production in countries that have large coal reserves. In this process, Fe-based catalysts are commonly used due to their earth abundance, comparatively wide operation range and ready availability to handle low H2/CO ratio from coal. Despite their extensive applications, the kinetic and mechanistic understandings of Fe carburization and FT reaction on Fe-carbides are relatively limited due to the complexity of phase composition of the applied catalysts. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge of FT synthesis on Fe-carbide with an emphasis on underlying mechanism. Specifically, the employment of model catalyst, such as Raney-Fe, could provide a convenient way to furnish kinetic information regarding Fe carburization and subsequent FT reaction. A major challenge for further understanding catalytic reactions occurring at the Fe-carbide surface is correlating FT activity and selectivity to specific active site. To address this issue, the advancements of both DFT calculations and surface science techniques are highly demanded.
Influence of Frustration Effects on the Critical Current of DC SQUID
Authors: Askerzade Iman N.
Published: June 2023

Here we present calculation of the critical current of DC SQUID based on the Josephson junction on multi-band superconductor with frustration effect. It is shown that the changing of the critical current of DC SQUID with small geometrical inductance is determined by the ratio of supercurrent amplitude in different channels and the external magnetic field. In the a case of DC SQUID with high inductance frustration effects can be ignored.
XEN®-63 Compared to XEN®-45 Gel Stents to Reduce Intraocular Pressure in Glaucoma
Authors: Evers Charlotte , Böhringer Daniel , Kallee Sara , Keye Philip , Philippin Heiko , Piotrowski Timothy , Reinhard Thomas , Lübke Jan
Published: June 2023

The XEN® gel stent reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma. XEN®-45 is widely used while the newer XEN®-63 has a larger lumen that may lower IOP more. We retrospectively compared the first 15 XEN®-63 cases to 15 matched XEN®-45 controls. With a preoperative IOP of 18.1 ± 3.9 mmHg (mean ± SD) and a final IOP of 9.2 ± 4.2 mmHg, XEN®-63 implantation resulted in an IOP reduction of 48.0 ± 23.3%. Similarly, with a preoperative IOP of 18.3 ± 4.5 mmHg and a final IOP of 10.5 ± 2.3 mmHg, XEN®-45 implantation resulted in an IOP reduction of 39.5 ± 17.81%. The median follow-up period was 57 days for the XEN®-63 group and 183 days for the XEN®-45 group. 5/15 eyes of each group underwent open conjunctival bleb revision within the period of observation. Two eyes of the XEN®-63 group also had secondary glaucoma surgery. In both groups only one eye required restart of antiglaucomatous medication. XEN®-63 and XEN®-45 effectively lower IOP and medication. XEN-63 achieved lower IOP over a short follow-up. Com-plication and revision rates were similar.
Estimation of Cooling Rate of High-Strength Thick Plate Steel during Water Quenching Based on a Dilatometric Experiment
Authors: Jo Hyo-Haeng , Kim Kyeong-Won , Park Hyungkwon , Moon Joonoh , Kim Young-Woo , Shim Hyun-Bo , Lee Chang-Hoon
Published: June 2023

The microstructure and hardness along the thickness direction of a water quenched, high-strength thick plate with a thickness of 40 mm were investigated with three specimens from the thick plate: surface, 1/4t, and 1/2t (center) thickness, and the phase transformation behavior of the thick plate according to the cooling rate was analyzed through dilatometric experiments. Finally, the cooling rate for each thickness of the thick plate was estimated by comparing the microstructure and hardness of the thick plate along the thickness with those of the dilatometric specimens. Martensite microstructure was observed on the surface of the water quenched thick plate due to the fast cooling rate. On the other hand, an inhomogeneous microstructure was transformed inside the thick plate due to the relatively slow cooling rate and central segregation of Mn. A small fraction of bainite was shown at 1/4t thickness. A banded microstructure with martensite and bainite resulting from Mn segregation was developed at 1/2t; that is, the full martensite microstructure was transformed in the Mn-enriched area even at a slow cooling rate due to high hardenability, but a bainite microstructure was formed in the Mn-depleted area owing to relatively low hardenability. A portion of martensite with fine cementite at the surface and 1/4t was identified as auto-tempered martensite with a Bagaryatskii orientation relationship between the ferrite matrix and cementite. The microstructure and hardness as well as dilatation were investigated at various cooling rates through a dilatometric experiment, and a continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagram was finally presented for the thick plate. Comparing the microstructure and hardness at the surface, 1/4t, and 1/2t of the thick plate with those of dilatometric specimens cooled at various cooling rates, it was estimated that the surface of the thick plate was cooled at more than 20 oC/s, whereas the 1/4t region was cooled at approximately 5 ~ 10 oC/s during water quenching.
Tradisi Merantau: Representasi Identitas dan Kearifan Masyarakat Bawean
Authors: Oetami Sri Wiryanti Boedi , Ali Mochamad
Published: June 2023

Masyarakat Bawean dikenal memiliki tradisi merantau. Keberlangsungan tradisi  merantau yang sudah turun-temurun menjadikan masyarakat Bawean tersebar dan eksis di beberapa kawasan Nusantara dan beberapa negara seperti di Malaysia, Singapura, Vietnam, dan Pulau Cristmas. Kampung Boyan merupakan salah satu ciri komunitas orang Bawean di perantauan. Tujuan penelitian ini menemukan dan mendeskripsikan nilai-nilai solidaritas yang menjadi kearifan lokal dari tradisi merantau masyarakat Bawean. Metode deskriptif kualitatif menjadi ancangan kajian. Dalam hal ini, peneliti mendeskripsikan secara menyeluruh dan mendalam nilai-nilai solidaritas dari tradisi merantau masyarakat Bawean. Hasil dan pembahasan menunjukkan bahwa nilai solidaritas tradisi merantau masyarakat Bawean terimplementasi pada pengawal dan Kampung Boyan, ngater-ngateraken. Harapan dan keberhasilan merantau dijiwai sikap futuristik dengan kerja keras, saling menghormati, kerja sama, saling membantu pemenuhan kebutuhan, saling percaya, tolong-menolong, toleransi, dan penyelesaian persoalan dengan baik melalui solidaritas yang tetap terjaga.
Eksistensi Puisi dan Kekontemporerannya sebagai Perintis Sastra Indonesia
Authors: Wahyudi Ibnu
Published: June 2023

Artikel ini membahas puisi dan peranannya sebagai penanda awal keberadaan sastra Indonesia. Tradisi penelitian sastra di Indonesia, khususnya berkenaan dengan populasi dan identitas, masih kurang mendapatkan perhatian. Sebagai akibatnya, dalam konteks sejarah sastra Indonesia, terjadi pengulangan terhadap pernyataan peneliti terdahulu karena para penulis sejarah sastra pada umumnya tidak mendasarkan pandangan pada keberadaan karya sastra. Sementara itu, peta sastra Indonesia memang masih banyak rumpangnya. Sumber data penelitian ini adalah buku-buku karya sastra, khususnya puisi yang dipublikasi pada abad ke-19. Analisis dan pemaknaan data dilakukan secara kronologis, tematik, dan kontekstual.Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa populasi puisi yang mendominasi kehidupan sastra dan keberadaannya menguatkan identitas dan perannya sebagai perintis sastra Indonesia. Ekspresi bahasa, bentuk, dan isi menunjukkan bahwa puisi-puisi yang terbit pada abad ke-19 menunjukkan kekontemporeran kehidupan sehari-hari yang dinyatakan sesuai dengan zamannya.
Determinants of the use of telemedicine in pediatric dentistry
Authors:   Tver State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Zhukova K. V. , Konovalov O. E. ,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia”
Published: June 2023

Currently, favorable conditions are being created in the Russian Federation for the development and effective use of telemedicine in healthcare. Options for the use of information and communication technologies in pediatric dentistry are: telemedicine consultations, consultations, distance education of medical workers, medical education and preventive activities among the child population. The aim of the research as part of the dissertation work, the research was aimed at studying the attitude of dentists to the use of telemedicine technologies in pediatric dentistry. Materials and methods. The process of studying the attitude and readiness of pediatric dentists to use telemedicine technologies was aimed at identifying individual (micro) and conceptual (meso- and macro) factors affecting the use of medicine in pediatric dentistry. The study included a semi-formal interview and questionnaire. Results. As a result of the research on the sections: Telemonitoring – remote monitoring of patients, including outpatient management of patients; storage and transmission of medical data; interactive telemedicine, it was found that doctors in Tver and the Tver region have both positive and negative beliefs and opinions that can promote or hinder their use of telemedicine in their professional practice. Conclusions. Research with the participation of pediatric dentists will help both developers and managers of medical institutions to understand the limitations and advantages of technologies from the point of view of practicing pediatric dentists, will allow predicting its development. The results of this study will contribute to solving the problems of implementing telemedicine services, contribute to the rational development of telemedicine platforms in pediatric dentistry in Tver and the Tver region.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Secondary to Vascular Insufficiency from Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Clavicle
Authors: Hysong Alexander A. , Denduluri Sahitya K. , Arko Frank R. , Waters Peter M. , Loeffler Bryan J.
Published: June 2023

Case:

An 18-year-old woman with a history of congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle (CPC) presented with episodes of right upper extremity ischemia. Vascular studies demonstrated an extensive thrombus with complete occlusion of the brachial artery. She underwent urgent thrombectomy. Subsequently, she underwent first rib resection and scalenectomy as well as pseudarthrosis takedown and fixation. Postoperatively, she returned to Division I collegiate soccer with complete symptomatic resolution.

Conclusion:

We report a case of arterial thoracic outlet syndrome secondary to CPC.
COVID-19 Symptom Reporting Compliance Rates Among University Performing Arts Majors
Authors: Tomchuk David , Schneider Kyle , Bascomb-Harrison Jacklyn
Published: June 2023

AIMS: The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected the performing arts sector by temporarily closing venues. As venues reopened, COVID-19 symptom self-reporting and monitoring were one tool to identify potentially symptomatic cast and crew, who would then undergo contact tracing, testing,
or isolation to prevent spreading COVID-19. However, the compliance rates for submitting a COVID-19 self-monitoring checklist among undergraduate performing art majors remain unknown. METHODS: This retrospective medical chart review investigated 282 cast and crew (68 males and 214 females)
regarding their daily COVID-19 symptom report documents across the genres of dance, musical theater, and vocal performance throughout the production runs of 11 performances at a midwestern United States university’s integrated performing arts campus. Compliance regarding the completion
of the COVID-19 symptom checklist was compared between gender identity, performance semester, and performance type throughout the 2020–2021 academic year. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference on masking compliance when comparing males (mean 73.6%) and females (73.8%).
The completion of the symptom self-reporting during the fall 2020 semester was statistically significantly higher than in the spring 2021 semester (F = 6.065, t = 4.485, df = 229.661, p = 0.014, d = 0.52). Additionally, those participating in musical theater were more compliant than those
in vocal performance (F(2,280) = 4.410, p = 0.013, d = 0.031). There was no statistically significant difference between dance and musical theater or vocal performance and dance genres regarding overall compliance. CONCLUSIONS: These findings can help understand the groups of performing artists
who would comply with the public health measure of completing a daily symptom checklist for COVID-19 or similar communicable diseases.
Phytoremidation by Sansevieria sp. through absorption of Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Authors: Iswoyo Hari , Bahrun Abd. Haris , Ganing William
Published: June 2023

This study aims to determine the quality of Sansevieria plants in absorbing carbon monoxide (CO) and to determine the relationship of stomatal conditions to the quality of carbon monoxide (CO) absorption. The research was conducted in the form of a 2-factor factorial experiment using a Randomized Group Design as the environmental design. The experiment consisted of 2 factors, the first factor was the variety of Sansevieria plants consisting of three varieties, namely Sansevieria trifasciata, Sansevieria cylindrica and Sansevieria green hahnii, while the second factor was the concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) consisting of two levels, namely: the concentration of carbon monoxide released at 300 ppm and the concentration of carbon monoxide released at 800 ppm. The results showed that there was no interaction between varieties of Sansevieria plants with carbon monoxide concentrations on the quality of carbon monoxide (CO) gas absorption. The results showed no interaction between the varieties of Sansevieria plants and carbon monoxide concentrations in terms of the quality of carbon monoxide (CO) gas absorption. Sansevieria plant varieties that are given a carbon monoxide concentration of 300 ppm give the best effect on the total percentage of carbon monoxide gas absorption, which is 89.50%.
Preparation and Application of Laponite®-Based Amphiphilic Janus Nanosheets for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Wang Xiujun
Published: June 2023

In this study, the interfacial reaction method was used to modify the laponite particles using 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane and octadecylamine, and the structure, morphology, and displacement performance tests of the modified particles were carried out. Elemental analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer, thermogravimetric analysis, and transmission electron microscopy are used to characterize the structure and morphology of the modified particles, and the results showed that laponite particles had been successfully modified. Results of the study indicated that Laponite®-based amphiphilic janus nanosheets (LAS) can accumulate at the interface, reduce the interfacial tension from 14.9 to 9.6 mN/m, and have a good emulsification effect for a long time. Second, the wettability alteration exhibited by LAS can change the wettability of the rock from oil-wet to water-wet. In addition, oil displacement experiments showed that LAS nanofluids can extract 11.6% at low concentration, which has a certain application potential.
Mengungkap Rahasia Kedahsyatan Gerakan Shalat Bagi Kesehatan Tubuh
Authors: Dedi ardiansyah  , Miftahul Ulum
Published: June 2023

Shalat tidak hanya menjadi amalan utama yang dihisab di akhirat nanti, ternyata gerakan shalat adalah gerakan proporsional yang memberi manfaat luar biasa bagi kesehatan tubuh. Kurangnya pemahaman terhadap manfaat  yang dihasilkan dari gerakan sholat bagi kesehatan membuat seseorang kurang termotivasi melakukannya, sehingga dalam melakukanya hanya  didasari atas unsur menjalankan kewajiban dari sisi syariat saja, tanpa memperhatikan gerakan yang sempurna, dimana sebenarnya gerakan yang sempurna dalam pelaksanaan shalat sudah menjadi aturan pokok dalam syariat selain itu juga akan membawa manfaat yang besar bagi kesehatan tubuh. Tujuan penelitian ini menganalisis manfaat yang dihasilkan dari gerakan sholat terhadap kesehatan tubuh, Metode yang digunakan  meneliti adalah penelitian studi kepustakaan dengan sistem pendekatan secara analitik  konsep. Pada penelitian ini yang dihasilkan yaitu manfaat gerakan sholat bagi kesehatan tubuh. Pemahaman terhadap manfaat gerakan shalat bagi tubuh akan memotivasi seseorang melaksanakan shalat dengan benar. gerakan sholat ini melibatkan seluruh otot persendian, sehingga gerakan sholat ini dapat menjaga keseimbangan energi tubuh, mengendurkan otot persendian dan memperlancar peredaran darah ke seluruh tubuh, terutama otak, karena otak berada di atas dan jantung membutuhkan lebih banyak energi untuk mengalirkan darah ke otak (atas). Hal ini bisa terjadi karena saat dia shalat, kalori dalam tubuhnya dibakar secara teratur sehingga mengurangi penyakit yang menimpa tubuh