bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Flood Source Areas and Analyzing High Flow Extremes Under Changing Land Use, Land Cover, and Climate in the Gumara Watershed, Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Belay Haile , Melesse Assefa M. , Tegegne Getachew , Tamiru Habtamu
Published: December 2024

Changes in land use, land cover (LULC), and climate increasingly influence flood occurrences in the Gumara watershed, located in the Upper Blue Nile (UBN) basin of Ethiopia. This study assesses how these factors impact return period-based peak floods, flood source areas, and future high flow extremes. Merged rainfall data (1981–2019) and ensemble means of four CMIP5 and four CMIP6 models were used for historical (1981–2005), near-future (2031–2055), and far-future (2056–2080) periods under representative concentration pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) and shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5). Historical LULC data for the years (1985, 2000, 2010, and 2019) and projected LULC data under business-as-usual (BAU) and governance (GOV) scenarios for the years (2035 and 2065) were used along with rainfall data to analyze flood peaks. Flood simulation was performed using a calibrated Hydrologic Engineering Center-Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) model. The unit flood response (UFR) approach ranked eight subwatersheds (W1–W8) by their contribution to peak flood magnitude at the main outlet, while flow duration curves (FDCs) of annual maximum (AM) flow series were used to analyze changes in high flow extremes. For the observation period, maximum peak flood values of 211.7, 278.5, 359.5, 416.7, and 452.7 m³/s were estimated for 5-, 10-, 25-, 50-, and 100-year return periods, respectively, under the 2019 LULC condition. During this period, subwatersheds W4 and W6 were identified as major flood contributors with high flood index values. These findings highlight the need to prioritize these subwatersheds for targeted interventions to mitigate downstream flooding. In the future period, the highest flow is expected under the SSP5-8.5 (2056–2080) climate scenario combined with the BAU-2065 land use scenario. These findings underscore the importance of strategic land management and climate adaptation measures to reduce future flood risks. The methodology developed in this study, particularly the application of RF-MERGE data in flood studies, offers valuable insights into the existing knowledge base on flood modeling.
Phytoremediation Strategies of Multi-Polluted Soils: Enhancements, Challenges, and Future Prospects
Authors: Lee Yun-Yeong , Cho Kyung-Suk , Yun Jeonghee
Published: December 2024

Soil contaminated by both petroleum hydrocarbons (PHs) and heavy metals presents significant challenges, such as reduced bioavailability of pollutants, toxic effects on soil microorganisms, and unpredictable chemical interactions. These complex interactions hinder effective remediation. Phytoremediation, which leverages plant and microbial processes, offers a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. However, its effectiveness is often limited by the intricate interactions between PHs, heavy metals, and soil components, which complicate pollutant degradation and microbial activity. In this review, phytoremediation strategies for multi-polluted soils with PHs and heavy metals are explored, addressing the challenges posed by their co-occurrence and interactions. Key challenges include competition between pollutants for soil binding sites and microbial community disruptions, which slow degradation.
Strategies to overcome these limitations involve using soil amendments to enhance pollutant bioavailability, applying plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) to improve plant resilience, and employing genetic engineering to boost pollutant uptake and detoxification mechanisms in plants. Future advancements in interdisciplinary approaches, combining biological techniques with technological innovations, are highlighted to address the complexities of multi-polluted environments and improve pollutant removal efficiency.
Lipoprotein Lipase: Structure, Function, and Genetic Variation
Authors: Perera Shehan D. , Wang Jian , McIntyre Adam D. , Hegele Robert A.
Published: December 2024

Biallelic rare pathogenic loss-of-function (LOF) variants in lipoprotein lipase (LPL) cause familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS). Heterozygosity for these same variants is associated with a highly variable plasma triglyceride (TG) phenotype ranging from normal to severe hypertriglyceridemia (HTG), with longitudinal variation of phenotype severity seen often in a given carrier. Here we provide an updated overview of genetic variation in LPL in the context of HTG, with a focus on disease-causing and/or disease-associated variants. We provide a curated list of 300 disease-causing variants discovered in LPL, as well as an exon-by-exon breakdown of the LPL gene and protein, highlighting the impact of variants and the various functional residues of domains of the LPL protein. We also provide a curated list of variants of unknown or uncertain significance, many of which may be upgraded to pathogenic/likely pathogenic classification should additional case and/or segregation data be reported. Finally, we also review the association between benign/likely benign variants in LPL, many of which are common polymorphisms, and TG phenotype.
A Scenario-Based Simulation Study for Economic Viability and Widespread Impact Analysis of Consumption-Side Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Kiray Vedat
Published: December 2024

This study examines energy storage within the frameworks of production-side and consumption-side energy storage concepts. The theoretical advantages of consumption-side energy storage over production-side energy storage are initially discussed. Subsequently, the topic is supported by a simulation study, and the resulting analyses are presented. The simulation investigates the feasibility and applicability of consumption-side energy storage under varying conditions through diverse scenarios, incorporating economic analyses for these scenarios. Furthermore, it evaluates the widespread impact of consumption-side energy storage when adopted by 5M, 10M, 20M, and 40M consumers across separate scenarios. The widespread impact analysis focuses on shifting peak-period energy consumption to night-period consumption. This shift’s effects on reducing energy production requirements and alleviating transmission line loads are analyzed, along with the economic advantages derived from deferring energy infrastructure investments. The analysis centers exclusively on residential consumers, as a preliminary study, referring to the energy storage systems they utilize as Residential Energy Storage Systems (RESS). These systems are assumed to be organized and managed by Energy Provider Companies rather than individual consumers. The study also addresses the potential costs associated with implementing RESS. The simulation-based widespread impact analysis highlights significant outcomes: reducing the need for new power plants, mitigating the risk of overloading transmission lines, shifting peak-period consumption to night periods, enhancing the utilization of renewable energy resources, delivering economic benefits to energy providers and consumers, and achieving positive environmental impacts. From these outcomes obtained, very striking inferences are produced that may affect the future energy policies of many countries, especially the USA.
Somatic DNA Variants in Epilepsy Surgery Brain Samples from Patients with Lesional Epilepsy
Authors: Schwarz Jana Marie , Becker Lena Luise , Wahle Monika , Faßbender Jessica , Thomale Ulrich Wilhelm , Tietze Anna , Morales-Gonzalez Susanne , Knierim Ellen , Schuelke Markus , Kaindl Angela M.
Published: December 2024

Epilepsy affects 50 million people worldwide and is drug-resistant in approximately one third of cases. Even when a structural lesion is identified as the epileptogenic focus, understanding the underlying genetic causes is crucial to guide both counseling and treatment decisions. Both somatic and germline DNA variants may contribute to the lesion itself and/or influence the severity of symptoms. We therefore used whole exome sequencing (WES) to search for potentially pathogenic somatic DNA variants in brain samples from children with lesional epilepsy who underwent epilepsy surgery. WES was performed on 20 paired DNA samples extracted from both lesional brain tissue and a reference tissue from the same patient, such as leukocytes or fibroblasts. The paired WES data were jointly analyzed using GATK Mutect2 to identify somatic single nucleotide variants (SNVs) or insertions/deletions (InDels), which were subsequently evaluated in silico for their disease-causing potential using MutationTaster2021. We identified known pathogenic somatic variants in 5 patients (25%) with variant allele frequencies (VAF) ranging from 3-35% in the genes MTOR, TSC2, PIK3CA, FGFR1, and PIK3R1 as potential causes of cortical malformations or central nervous system (CNS) tumors. Depending on the VAF, we used different methods such as Sanger sequencing, allele-specific qPCR, or targeted ultra-deep sequencing (amplicon sequencing) to confirm the variant. In contrast to the usually straightforward confirmation of germline variants, the validation of somatic variant is more challenging because current methods have limitations in sensitivity, specificity, and cost-effectiveness. In our study, WES identified additional somatic variant candidates in additional genes with VAFs ranging from 0.7-7.0% that could not be validated by an orthogonal method. This highlights the importance of variant validation, especially for those with very low allele frequencies.
Addressing Metabolic Syndrome with Vegetable Extracts: A Review of Efficacy, Safety, and Technological Advances
Authors: Ullah Hammad , Dacrema Marco , Buccato Daniele Giuseppe , Fayed Marwa A.A. , De Lellis Lorenza Francesca , Morone Maria Vittoria , Minno Alessandro Di , Baldi Alessandra , Daglia Maria
Published: December 2024

Metabolic syndrome is a global health challenge, marked by visceral obesity, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and chronic low-grade systemic inflammation. The limitations of existing therapeutic options, including variable efficacy and significant risk of adverse events, have driven growing interest in natural products, particularly vegetable extracts as food supplements or functional food ingredients to prevent metabolic syndrome risk factors in high-risk individuals. This study provides a comprehensive review of the role of vegetable extracts in mitigating metabolic syndrome risk factors, addressing their safety concerns, and exploring associated technological advancements. Evidence from the literature highlights the potential of these extracts to combat the pathogenesis of metabolic dysfunctions. However, challenges such as safety concerns, lack of standardized regulations, and the possibility of drug-food interactions impede their clinical application. Robust, long-term clinical studies are essential to confirm the efficacy and safety of vegetable extracts before they can be established as a preventive strategy for managing metabolic syndrome.
Antidepressant Sertraline Modulates the Gene Expression and Alternative Splicing Events in the Dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Rocha Carlos H. Lopes , Galvão Rocha Flaviane M. , Sanches Pablo R. , Rossi Antonio , Martinez-Rossi Nilce M.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Dermatophytosis, a prevalent fungal infection of keratinized tissues, is primarily caused by the filamentous fungus Trichophyton rubrum. Sertraline (SRT), an antidepressant with antifungal activity, has already demonstrated therapeutic potential against this fungus. Elucidating the effects of SRT may provide insights into its mechanism of action and fungal adaptation to this drug. Differential gene expression and alternative splicing (AS) facilitate fungal adaptations to various environmental conditions. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of AS events and their implications in T. rubrum cultivated under sub-inhibitory concentrations of SRT. Method: The transcriptome of T. rubrum challenged with SRT was analyzed to detect AS events. Results: RNA-seq analysis revealed that SRT affected transcriptional and post-transcriptional events in numerous T. rubrum genes, including those encoding transcription factors, kinases, and efflux pumps. Among the AS events, intron retention was predominant. After 12 h of SRT exposure, intron-3 retention levels in the serine/arginine protein kinase mRNA transcripts were significantly increased compared with those in the control. This new isoform would produce a putative protein that partially lost its phosphotransferase domain. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential mechanisms of action of SRT, and suggest how T. rubrum adapts itself to this drug.
Use of ProMED as a Surveillance System for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases in Brazil from 2015 to 2020
Authors: Rocha Davi Carreiro , Santos Louro Luana , Ewald Oliveira Hosana , Cancian de Araujo Bruno , Ryu Sukhyun , Vicente Creuza Rachel
Published: December 2024

Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases have been frequently reported in Brazil. The Program for Mon-itoring Emerging Diseases (ProMED) is a virtual system with expert curation for monitoring health events, including those occurring in Brazil. This study aimed to describe the ProMED as a complementary surveillance system for emerging infectious diseases in Brazil. It has a retrospective and descriptive design and was con-ducted using ProMED-PORT reports that cited Brazil and were published from January 1st, 2015, to December 31st, 2020. In total, 220 new reports were identified during the study period. Most of these were published between January and June. Reports on humans were predominant (n = 177) and comprised 78 kinds of events, most of which were related to arboviruses. Reports on animals were the second most prevalent (n = 35) and encompassed 18 kinds of events, particularly yellow fever in non-human primates, rabies in different mam-mals, and sporotrichosis in felines. Six (2.7%) reports were related to humans and animals, while two (0.9%) were related to plants or the environment. Most reports were from Southeast and Northeast regions. ProMED identified leading emerging and reemerging infectious diseases in Brazil, serving as an information source for local and international health authorities.
Electrochemical Method for the Assay of Organic Peroxides Directly in Acetonitrile
Authors: Ivanova Vanina V. , Pimpilova Mariya G. , Stoyanova Maria K. , Dimcheva Nina D.
Published: December 2024

Lipid peroxidation is a major process that determines the quality of various oil samples during their use and storage, in which the primary products are hydroperoxides (HP’S). HP’S are very stable compounds at ambient conditions and are harmful to human health. Therefore, the eval-uation of the degree of oil oxidation is an excellent tool for ensuring food safety. Тhe peroxide value (PV) is the main parameter for quality control of oils. Herein, we propose an alternative electrochemical method to the most widely used classical iodometric titration for determining the PV. Our approach is based on the electrochemical quantification of hydroperoxides/peroxides in an organic solvent medium (acetonitrile and organic ammonium salt) using a composite electro-catalyst-glassy carbon electrode modified with 2D-nanomaterial graphitic carbon nitride doped with Co3O4. Calibration was made by standard addition method using benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as a model peroxide compound, dissolved in chloroform and added to fresh Rivana brand an-ti-cellulite oil used as a model oil sample. Calibration plots showed a linear response and very good reproducibility of the analytical result (R2˃0.99). Further, in term of accuracy, the method showed good results, since the BPO quantitative analysis was close to the theoretical response. In addition, the accuracy of the electrochemical method was compared with that of the standard iodometric titration method for determining the PV of vegetable fats (according to Bulgarian State Standard, BSS EN ISO 3960:2017). Finally, using the electrochemical method, the concentration of peroxides was determined in a real sample - an anti-cellulite oil of the trademark Rivana with an expired shelf life.
Approaching Flood Risk Management by Creating a 3D Model at the Watershed Level
Authors: Ichim Cristiana , Filip Larisa Ofelia , Glont Cristian-Dinu , Ristache Alexandru , Lupu-Dima Lucian
Published: December 2024

The number of major floods globally has been consistently significant in recent years. By using several methods of acquiring and processing geospatial data, this research aims to develop a digital terrain model that supports the modeling of sudden increases in water levels in a river to provide a true picture of the areas at risk. The main contribution of this research is the way to perform coupled geospatial, hydrological and hydraulic calculations, which are performed in the area of interest and which will highlight the characteristics of the water flow corresponding to the maximum flows with the exceedance probabilities of 10%, 1%, 0.5% and 0.1%, as well as those corresponding to the maximum flows resulting from the storage dam failure scenarios in the area. The research results indicate that the creation of a 3D model at the river basin level is the most important step in flood risk management.
3-D Posture Analysis-Based Modification After Manual Therapy: A Clinical Study
Authors: Scoppa Fabio , Graffitti Andrea , Pirino Alessio , Piermaria Jacopo , Tamburella Federica , Tramontano Marco
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Manual therapies like Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) and Gentle Touch Intervention (GTI) are widely employed for improving posture and spinal alignment, but their effects measured through advanced technologies remain underexplored. This study aims to evaluate the short-term postural effects of these interventions using a non-invasive three-dimensional rasterstereography-based approach, focusing on cervical arrow, lumbar arrow, kyphotic angle, and lordotic angle parameters. Methods: A three-armed randomized controlled trial was conducted with 165 healthy participants. Subjects were divided into control (CTRL), OMT, and GTI groups. Postural parameters were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Spine3D system. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and ANOVA, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Significant reductions in the cervical arrow were observed in both OMT (p<0.005) and GTI (p<0.05) groups, while the kyphotic angle significantly improved only in the GTI group (p<0.05). No significant changes were found in lumbar arrow or lordotic angle across groups. The control group showed no postural variations, reinforcing the specificity of the interventions. Conclusions: Both OMT and GTI influence spinal posture, particularly in the cervical and thoracic regions. GTI, with its gentle approach, demonstrated unique effects on thoracic curvature, suggesting neurophysiological mechanisms. These findings highlight the potential of manual therapies for posture modulation and suggest future research to explore their long-term benefits and applications in clinical populations.
AI-Assisted Forecasting of a Mitigated Multiple Steam Generator Tube Rupture Scenario in a Typical Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Spisak Sonia Justyna , Diab Aya
Published: December 2024

This study is focused on developing a machine learning (ML) meta-model to predict the progression of a Multiple Steam Generator Tube Rupture (MSGTR) accident in the APR1400 reactor. Accident simulation was performed using the thermal-hydraulic code, RELAP5/SCDAPSIM/MOD3.4. The model incorporates a mitigation strategy executed through operator interventions. Following this, uncertainty quantification employing the Best Estimate Plus Uncertainty (BEPU) methodology was undertaken by coupling RELAP5/SCDAPSIM/MOD3.4 with the statistical software, DAKOTA. The analysis concentrated on critical safety parameters, including Reactor Coolant System (RCS) pressure and temperature, Reactor Vessel Upper Head (RVUH) void fraction. These simulations generated a comprehensive dataset, which served as the foundation for training three ML architectures: Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Convolutional LSTM (CNN+LSTM). Among these models, the CNN+LSTM hybrid configuration demonstrated superior performance, excelling in both predictive accuracy and computational efficiency. To bolster the model's transparency and interpretability, Integrated Gradients (IG)—an advanced Explainable AI (XAI) technique—was applied, elucidating the contribution of input features to the model’s predictions and enhancing its trustworthiness.
Vitamin D: Evidence-Based Health Benefits and Recommendations for Population Guidelines
Authors: Grant William B , Wimalawansa Sunil J , Pludowski Pawel , Cheng Richard Z
Published: December 2024

Vitamin D offers a wide range of under-recognized health benefits beyond its well-established role in musculoskeletal health. It plays a crucial role in extra-renal and skeletal tissues, prenatal and newborn health, brain health, immune function, cancer prevention, cardiovascular disease, etc. Current clinical guidelines, particularly the Endocrine Society's 2024 recommendations, remain limited in scope and have not addressed the vital extra-skeletal benefits of this vitamin nor the thresholds for vitamin D assays. Their recommendations were based on conclusions from randomized controlled trials of the benefits of vitamin D, which were infrequently found. Most such trials included participants with above average 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and treated with low vitamin D doses and analyzed based on intention to treat. This review considers the role of vitamin D in reducing the risk of incidence and death for eight of the top ten causes of death in the US illustrating that serum concentrations above 30 ng/mL (75 nmol/L) compared to <20 ng/mL are associated with significantly reduced risk of incidence and mortality rates for many health outcomes. Since about a quarter of the US population and 60% in Central Europe have 25(OH)D concentrations <20 ng/mL, significant reductions in disease rates and deaths could be achieved by raising those values above the minimum of 30 ng/mL. Daily vitamin D supplementation with 2000 international units (IU) (50 µg) of vitamin D3 is recommended for prevention of vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency (i.e, serum 25(OH)D < 30 ng/mL)—sufficient for musculoskeletal system functions. However, intake above 4000 IU/day are recommended to raise serum 25(OH)D to the range 40‒70 ng/mL to achieve protection against many adverse health outcomes. This review aims to pave the way for more inclusive, evidence-based guidelines that enhance public health and personalized care.
Regional Anesthesia in Patients Who Underwent Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery
Authors: Fiore Marco , Cosenza Gianluigi , Parmeggiani Domenico , Coppolino Francesco , Ferraro Fausto , Pace Maria Caterina
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Globally, thyroid and parathyroid diseases are common and often re-quire surgery. This review evaluates the current literature on the use of regional anesthesia in these surgeries, highlighting its advantages, limitations, and areas requiring further research. Methods: MEDLINE (via PubMed) and ResearchGate, the largest academic social network, were utilized to retrieve literature on the topic. Results: Fifteen studies with few patients and largely uncontrolled on the use of loco-regional anaesthesia (LRA) not combined with General Anesthesia (GA) were found. While twenty-two better quality studies involving several patients on LRA Combined GA were found. Conclusions: LRA, in combination with GA, has been proven to be the most reliable evidence for reducing opioid use and postoperative nausea and vomiting. LRA, not combined with GA has been used in a few well-conducted studies, it seems to be feasible to use even in patients with severe systemic disease. Future controlled studies will need to validate its effectiveness and safety.
Fluorescent Neutron Track Detectors for Boron-10 Micro-Distribution Measurement in BNCT: a Feasibility Study
Authors: Galuzzi Laura , Parisi Gabriele , Pascali Valeria , Niklas Martin , Bortot Davide , Protti Nicoletta , Altieri Saverio
Published: December 2024

The interest in Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) has been recently increasing thanks to the latest advancements in accelerator technology which allow to generate the required neutron field from accelerator facilities that could be hosted in hospitals or clinical centres. BNCT is a form of radiation therapy which relies on the highly localised and enhanced biological effects of the boron-10 (B-10) neutron capture (BNC) reaction products to selectively kill cancer cells. The BNC products are low-energy alpha and lithium ions, which are characterised by a high Linear Energy Transfer (LET) and a very short range lower than 9?m. The energy deposition and interaction with critical biological target such as DNA molecules is therefore strongly dependent on the B-10 spatial micro-distribution into the cells. In this framework, the Fluorescent Nuclear Track Detectors (FNTD) could be a promising device for the visualisation of the ion traversals induced in BNCT. FNTD consists of a fluorescent single-crystal aluminium oxide doped with carbon and magnesium, coupled with a Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) read-out. Its biocompatibility allows to deposit and grow cells samples on its surface. If a layer of borated cells is deposited and irradiated by a neutron field, the energy deposited by the BNC products and their trajectories can be measured by analysing the corresponding track spots induced at different depths of the detector. This allows to reconstruct the position where the measured particles were generated, hence the micro-distribution of B-10. A FNTD was tested in three irradiation conditions to study the feasibility of FNTD for BNCT applications. The device was firstly irradiated by the alpha particles emitted by an Am-241 source (with energy of about 5.5 MeV). The same radiation field moderated by a 23?m layer of Mylar was then used to obtain alpha particles with a lower energy of about 2.5 MeV, thus closer to BNC products. Finally, the FNTD was tested at the University of Pavia’s LENA (Applied Nuclear Energy Laboratory) under a thermal neutron beam. A standard reference material (SRM) consisting of boron implanted on a silicon wafer was placed on the detector surface to reproduce a typical BNCT radiation field. The FNTD allowed to successfully measure the correct alpha particles range and mean penetration depth expected for all the radiation fields employed. This work proved the feasibility of FNTD to reconstruct the tracks of the alpha particles produced in typical BNCT conditions. Hence, FNTD will allow to measure the intra-cellular micro-distribution of B-10, bringing a significant contribution to the advancement of BNCT research. With this purpose, further experiments at LENA irradiating borated cell samples are planned.
LightGBM Hail Prediction Model Integrating Bayesian Optimization and DOH Optimization Algorithms: A Case Study of the Complex Terrain Area of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhang Guojing , Wang Xiaoying , Guan Qin , Wu Li
Published: December 2024

Hail disaster prediction is a pivotal research topic within the field of meteorology, carrying substantial importance for the prevention and mitigation of disasters. The complex terrain and frequent occurrence of hail in Qinghai Province present challenges for traditional prediction methods, which are hindered by issues such as sample imbalance and geographic complexity, resulting in less than ideal outcomes. This study, based on ERA5 reanalysis data and ground-based observation records, proposes a LightGBM hail prediction model that integrates Bayesian optimization with a dual-output header (DOH) structure. First, the DOH structure is developed to separately optimize positive and negative samples, effectively mitigating the sample imbalance problem. Additionally, a Bayesian optimization strategy is applied to conduct global hyperparameter tuning, thereby improving model performance. Experimental results show that, compared to mainstream single and ensemble classification methods, the proposed model achieves superior accuracy, precision, and recall. In the test set, the model demonstrated a prediction accuracy of 0.97, a recall of 0.939, a precision of 0.966, a critical success index (CSI) of 0.909, and a false alarm rate (FAR) of only 0.015. This research provides an effective technical solution for hail prediction in the Qinghai region, offering significant practical value for enhancing early warning capabilities.
Matrix-Sequences of Geometric Means in the Case of Hidden (Asymptotic) Structures
Authors: Ahmad Danyal , Khan Muhammad Faisal , Serra-Capizzano Stefano
Published: December 2024

In the current work, we analyze the spectral distribution of the geometric mean of two or more matrix-sequences constituted by Hermitian positive definite matrices, under the assumption that all input matrix-sequences belong to the same Generalized Locally Toeplitz (GLT) $*$-algebra. We consider the geometric mean for two matrices, using the Ando-Li-Mathias (ALM) definition, and then we pass to the extension of the the idea to more than two matrices by introducing the Karcher mean. While there is no simple formula for the geometric mean of more than two matrices, iterative methods from the literature are employed to compute it. The main novelty of the work is the extension of the study in the distributional sense when input matrix-sequences belong to one of the GLT $*$-algebras. More precisely, we show that the geometric mean of more than two positive definite GLT matrix-sequences forms a new GLT matrix-sequence, with the GLT symbol given by the geometric mean of the individual symbols. Numerical experiments are reported concerning scalar and block GLT matrix-sequences in both one-dimensional and two-dimensional cases. A section with conclusions and open problems ends the current work.
Effects of Hexanal Supplementation on Volatile Compound Profiles and Quality Parameters of ‘Fuji Kiku’ Apples During Cold Storage and Shelf Life
Authors: Jesenko Erika , Vidrih Rajko , Zlatić Emil
Published: December 2024

The effects of hexanal supplementation in the storage atmosphere of ‘Fuji Kiku’ apples were in-vestigated. Contents of volatile compounds (VC) in the headspace emitted by apple fruit during cold storage and in the headspace of apple fruit and juice during shelf life were determined. Hexanal treatment during storage significantly affected the VC profile by stimulating the pro-duction or retention of key esters, including hexyl acetate, ethyl acetate, and butyl 2-methylbutanoate, during cold storage. Supplementation of hexanal also increased the produc-tion of linear esters, especially hexyl acetate, and promoted the formation of branched esters such as ethyl 2-methylbutanoate and hexyl 2-methylbutanoate during shelf life. Hexanal also increased the alcohol concentrations, with a significant increase in hexanol and 2-pentanol. Partial least squares discriminant analysis showed clear separation between control and hexanal-treated samples, with compounds like butyl hexanoate and 2-methyl-1-butanol being the most influential. Apple juice extracted from the flesh of hexanal-treated apples exhibited higher concentrations of key VCs, including 2-methylbutyl acetate, hexyl acetate, and 2-methyl-1-butanol. No significant differences in firmness were observed, however, hexanal showed an inhibitory effect on color development of fruit. This study highlights the potential of hexanal in influencing aroma-related compounds and provides insight into strategies to improve postharvest aroma in apples.
iEVEM: Big Data-Empowered Framework for Intelligent Electric Vehicle Energy Management
Authors: Guo Siyan , Zhao Cong
Published: December 2024

Recent years have witnessed an unprecedented boom of Electric Vehicles (EVs). However, EVs’ further development confronts critical bottlenecks due to energy issues like battery hazards, range anxiety, and charging inefficiency. Emerging data-driven EV Energy Management (EVEM) is a promising solution but still facing fundamental challenges, especially in terms of reliability and efficiency. This article presents iEVEM, the first big data-empowered intelligent EVEM framework, providing systematic support to the essential driver-, enterprise-, and social-level intelligent EVEM applications. Particularly, a layered data architecture from heterogeneous EVE data management to knowledge-enhanced intelligent solution design is provided, and an edge-cloud collaborative architecture for the networked system is proposed for reliable and efficient EVEM respectively. We conducted a proof-of-concept case study on a typical EVEM task (i.e., EV energy consumption outlier detection) using real driving data from 4,000+ EVs within three months. Experimental results show that iEVEM achieves a significant boost in reliability and efficiency (i.e., up to 47.48% higher in detection accuracy and at least 3.07× faster in response speed compared with the state-of-art approaches). As the first intelligent EVEM framework, iEVEM is expected to inspire more intelligent energy management applications exploiting skyrocketing EV big data.
Temporal Changes in Ruminal Microbiota Composition and Diversity in Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Lactobacilli-Based DFM
Authors: Campbell Bronwyn E , Hassan Mohammad Mahmudul , Moore Robert J. , Olchowy Timothy , Soust Martin , Jassim Rafat Al , Alawneh John I
Published: December 2024

The current study examined the effects of lactobacilli-based direct-fed microbial (DFM) supplementation on the microbiota composition and diversity in ruminal fluid samples collected from dairy cows. Over 18 months (September 2021 through January 2023), the rumen bacterial and archaeal communities of fifty cows, supplemented with the DFM (DFM; n = 25) or serving as un-supplemented controls (CON; n = 25), were examined using 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequence analysis of DNA extracted from ruminal samples. Microbial diversity was assessed through alpha- and beta-diversity metrics (p<0.05). Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis was performed to identify taxa driving the changes seen in the microbiota between experimental groups and temporally within each group (p<0.05). Bacillota and Bacteroidota were the major bacterial phyla, while Methanobacteriaceae was the predominant archaeal family. Bacterial genera such as Eubacterium_Q, Atopobium sp. UBA7741, and Sharpea were significantly more abundant in the DFM group, while Bacillus_P_294101 and SFMI01 had higher abundance in the CON group. The results also indicated significant temporal variations in ruminal microbial diversity, with specific taxa exhibiting different abundances between the DFM and CON groups. This study provides insights into how DFM feed additives can modulate the ruminal microbiota in dairy cows, revealing specific microbial shifts in response to supplementation.
Reducing the Surface Contamination Level of Cobalt-60 Contaminated Material with PVA-EDTA Combination Gel
Authors: Anggakusuma Rezky , Utama Gemilang Lara , Zain M Khoirul , Megasari Kartini
Published: December 2024

The utilization of nuclear technology is rapidly developing worldwide. Using nuclear reactors, non-power nuclear, and phallicity supporters, such as laboratory production and radioactive research substances, will pose risks, such as environmental risks and risks to worker radiation. Changes in the radioactive environment can occur because the contaminated substances are radioactive. Good in a way, direct or direct. Decontamination is required to lower or remove radioactive substances in an area, surface, or object. Research: This was done to manufacture gels for decontaminating radioactive substances on the surfaces of glass, ceramics, and metal plates. The gel comprised polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), glycerin, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) in a weight ratio per volume. Polymer synthesis was tested to evaluate the effectiveness of surface decontamination of radioactive cobalt-60. The synthesis results showed that the polymer gel composition with the best gel film results was a solution with 15% w/v PVA and 2% w/v EDTA. The efficiency of the gel on glass was 98%, and that on the ceramic and metal plates was 95%. An amount of less than 15 % causes the gel to harden and dry up into a movie, and with more than 15 %, the formation of a rigid polymer occurs. The addition of EDTA helps metal ion binding so that the level of contamination can be reduced.
Improvement of Speed-Strength Qualities in Young Football Players Aged 12-13
Authors: Ilash Almazbek , Gimaletdinova Gulnaz , Isaev Ruslan
Published: December 2024

The development of speed-strength qualities, or "explosive power," is very important for young football players aged 12–13 who want to be successful in the game. This study looks at how effective different training methods are for improving these abilities. We used key training approaches, such as plyometric exercises, resistance training, and dynamic drills with weights, to help build explosive power, The research focused on exercises with various types of weights—above, equal to, and below what players usually lift—so they can improve their skills and mimic real game situations. We tested the players abilities in vertical and horizontal jumps, multi-jump series, and strength during resisted movements. The results showed that the players made significant progress in explosive power This study highlights the importance of using a variety of training methods to help young athletes develop the speed and strength they need to perform better on the field.
Partial Least Squares Regression for Binary Data
Authors: Vicente-Gonzalez Laura , Frutos-Bernal Elisa , Vicente-Villardon Jose Luis
Published: December 2024

Classical Partial Least Squares (PLS) models were developed primarily for continuous data, allowing dimensionality reduction while preserving relationships between predictors and responses. However, their application to binary data is limited. This study introduces Binary Partial Least Squares (BPLS), a novel extension of the PLS methodology designed specifically for scenarios involving binary predictors and responses.
Microplastics in Urban Bird Feces: A Methodological Approach and Case Study in Mexico City
Authors: Vázquez-Cruz Victoria Amellalli , Cruz-Salas Arely Areanely , Hernandez Soriano Ana Isabel , Cervantes-Cabrera Getsemani , Ballesteros-López Mariana Elizabeth , Alvarez-Zeferino Juan Carlos , Vázquez Morillas Alethia
Published: December 2024

Microplastics (MP) are ubiquitous contaminants in diverse environmental matrices, including biota. Urban birds, such as pigeons (Columba livia), are particularly vulnerable to MP exposure due to their scavenging habits and proximity to human activities. This study developed and applied a methodology to assess MP presence in pigeon feces, starting with a review of existing methods for extracting MP from organic matrices. Selected methodologies were tested on spiked samples and optimized before being applied to feces collected from three sites in Mexico City (n=10 samples per site). MP were extracted using a digestion process with 50% hydrogen peroxide and analyzed by microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. Concentrations ranged from 16.4 to 27.8 MP/g dry feces, with fragments (80%) and fibers (20%) being the predominant shapes. The most common colors were black (32%) and white (22%), and the polymers identified included polystyrene and polyethylene. These findings suggest that pigeons ingest MP during feeding, likely due to confusion with organic matter, highlighting the risks of urban plastic pollution to avian health. The ingestion of MP could lead to malnutrition, organ damage, and ecosystem imbalances, underscoring the need for improved waste management in urban areas. This study provides evidence of the pervasive impact of plastic pollution in non-marine environments, demonstrating the potential of urban birds as bioindicators of local contamination.
Physical Activity and Quality of Life after Distal Femur Tumor Resection and Limb Salvage
Authors: Galanis Dimitra C. , Zafeiris Ioannis , Soukakou Foteini , Papagelopoulos Dimitra P. , Gavriil Panayiotis , Trikoupis Ioannis G. , Savvidou Olga D. , Vlasis Konstantinos , Kontogeorgakos Vasilios , Papagelopoulos Panayiotis J.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Distal femur tumor resection with limb salvage is a demanding procedure that offers hope for patients by preserving the limb rather than opting for amputation. While limb salvage can improve both physical function and psychological well-being, there’s limited knowledge on how active patients remain afterward and how their Quality of Life (QoL) is affected, especially regarding physical activities and sports. This study investigates the quality of life of the patients through the development of motor activity focusing on both physical and sporting activity of the above-mentioned individuals and their physical abilities to participate in activities of daily and sporting life after surgery. Methods: This study involved 16 patients aged 19-47 years who had undergone surgical resection and replacement of the distal femur for the treatment of sarcoma and were selected by random sampling from a total of 72 patients who had undergone a similar procedure. To explore the topic in depth, the researchers followed the triangulation method. From July 2023 to February 2024, we used surveys and interviews to explore their physical activity (PA) levels, sports participation, and QoL. The study included the International Physical Activity (PA) Questionnaire (IPAQ), the UCLA Activity Score, and semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using the statistical software packages SPSS 25 and Excel. Results: Most participants reported moderate to high levels of PA, according to IPAQ, and continued engaging in sports, with swimming, walking, and stair climbing being the most common activities. No significant relationship was found between their PA levels and factors such as age, BMI, or the side of the affected limb. Interviews showed that patients’ motivation and their surgeon’s guidance played key roles in their return to regular activities, though many exercised less frequently or intensely than recommended. Conclusions: Patients who undergo limb salvage surgery following distal femur tumor removal generally maintain a good level of physical activity, which supports their QoL. Encouraging these patients to stay active and even engage in sports appears feasible, especially when guided by medical professionals. These findings highlight the potential benefits of tailored rehab programs to improve long-term health and QoL in sarcoma survivors, although larger studies are needed for more comprehensive insights.
Gold Nanoparticle-Peptide Complex Intranasally Induces Antibody Response in Serum and Nasal Mucosa in Mice Model
Authors: Correa-Basurto Jose , Rojas-Hernández Saúl , Carrillo-Vazquez Jonathan Pablo , Zamorano-Carrillo Absalom , Gutiérrez-Sánchez Mara , Bello Martiniano , Rojas-López Marlon , García-Machorro Jazmín
Published: December 2024

It is known that bioconjugation makes it possible to generate nanovaccines by combining gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with immunogenic epitopes. Such is the case of the KKFKPEIAIRPKVRD peptide (P) identified under immunoinformatic studies from the tridimensional structure of the hemagglutinin of the human influenza A H1N1 pandemic strain virus. The P was conjugated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and their optical AuNPs-P complex properties were verified by UV/VIS and surface-enhanced Raman scattering measurements. The spectra of the AuNP-P complex at peptide concentrations at 0.5 to 0.7 µg/mL increase the dispersion of the Lys and Arg (positively charged). Thus, results suggest that these P concentrations are optimal for making AuNP-P complex due to their favored non-bond (electrostatic) interactions, which allow the binding P on the negative surface from AuNPs. Additionally, bioconjugation at these concentrations and the stability of the bioconjugates after 10 months were demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy studies. Subsequently, molecular dynamics simulations were used to analyze the assembly between the P and AuNPs and the binding mode at the atomic level. Finally, the AuNP-P complex was administered intranasally in BALB/c mice to then measure IgG in serum and IgA in nasal washings. The increased levels of IgG and IgA demonstrate the usefulness of AuNP- P complex administered intranasally.
O Google Workspace For Education no ensino remoto emergencial em Jeremoabo-BA
Authors: Santos Willian Lima , Ferrete Anne Alilma Silva Souza , Vasconcelos Alana Danielly
Published: December 2024

A pandemia da Covid-19 demandou adaptações educacionais diante do contexto do distanciamento físico, como forma de evitar a proliferação do vírus. Com o fechamento das escolas e a implementação do Ensino Remoto Emergencial (ERE), os cenários virtuais tornaram-se espaços alternativos para o prosseguimento das atividades letivas em todas as modalidades. Nessa conjuntura, diversos aplicativos do Google foram utilizados em prol de uma aprendizagem colaborativa e em rede. O presente estudo tem como objetivo evidenciar como os aplicativos do pacote Google Workspace for Education foram utilizados para fins educativos no âmbito do distanciamento físico no município de Jeremoabo/BA. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa de cunho bibliográfico cujo aporte teórico esteve pautado em investigações realizadas na região resultante dos estudos de Santos e Ferrete (2021), Santos, Ferrete e Alves (2021), Santos, Oliveira e Vieira (2022) e Santos e Ferrete (2023). Os estudos apontam para uma transposição didático-pedagógica das práticas docentes do presencial para o remoto por meio dos dispositivos móveis e suas interfaces interativas.
Soft Pipe Inspection Robot with Vibrating Cilia Capable of Underwater Transport
Authors: Selvamuthu Moses Gladson , Okada Ryuto , Tadakuma Riichiro
Published: December 2024

The maintenance and inspection of pipelines are crucial in various industries, including oil and gas, water supply, and sewage systems. Traditional methods often involve significant human labor, risks, and costs. Inspired by biological systems, soft robotics offers innovative solutions with the potential to navigate complex and confined environments. This study discusses the development of soft pipe inspection robots equipped with vibration cilia for enhanced mobility and inspection capabilities. The cilia are driven by a vibration motor that can generate controlled vibrations for propulsion. The coordinated movement of the cilia allows the robot to navigate vertically or through complex pipe networks. A notable advancement in this study is the robot’s capability to move under water, which thereby enables its locomotion across stagnant water in pipes. This study also discusses the basic design, modeling, performance analysis, and waterproof compactability verified through experiments. Its flexible design and bio-inspired locomotion offer a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solution for maintaining vital pipeline infrastructure.