bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Processing of Porous Core Materials Mimicking Bone’s Microstructure: A Permeability and Mechanical Strength Analysis
Authors: Macias Rogelio Jr. , Olmos Luis , Garnica Pedro , Alanis Ivon , Bouvard Didier , Chavez Jorge , Jimenez Omar , Márquez-Beltrán César , Cabezas-Villa Jose Luis
Published: August 2023

This study presents a methodology to fabricate Ti6Al4V cylindrical compacts with a highly porous core and dense shell with the purpose to mimic the bone microstructure. Compacts with different core diameters were obtained by conventionally press and sintering. Large pores were created with the aid of pore formers. Sintering kinetics was determined by dilatometry, whereas characterization was performed by X-ray computed tomography. Also, permeability was evaluated on the 3D microstructure and the mechanical strength was evaluated by compression tests. Results indicated that sintering is constraint by the different densification rates of the porous and dense layers. Nonetheless, defectless compacts were obtained due to neck bonding between Ti6Al4V particles. Large pores were located in the designed core with similar pore size distribution. Permeability increased following a power law as a function of the pore volume fraction. Stiffness of bilayer components was driven by the porous core, meanwhile, the strength resulted from the combination of both layers. Bilayer materials obtained showed a permeability and mechanical properties, as well as admissible strain (σy /E) similar to those of human bones.
A Simplified Design Method for Quasi Resonant Inverter Used in Induction Hob
Authors: Ozturk Metin
Published: August 2023

Induction heating (IH) technology is widely recognized and utilized in residential applications due to its high efficiency and safe operating characteristics. Resonant inverter circuits are widely used in IH systems because of their high efficiency and ability to perform soft-switching. Among the various resonant inverters used in IH systems, the single-switch quasi-resonant (SSQR) inverter topology is typically preferred for low-cost and low-output-power applications. Despite its cost advantage, the SSQR topology has a relatively narrow soft-switching range, which can be unstable depending on the electrical parameters of the load and the resonant converter circuit. Accurately determining the capacitance value of the resonant capacitor and the inductance value of the induction coil, which are the key circuit elements of the SSQR induction cooker, is crucial for designing a reliable, efficient, and durable cooking system. In other words, there exists a critical relationship between the resonant converter circuit parameters, load characteristics, and safe operating conditions. Additionally, when considering closed-loop control methods used for power control and safety, selecting appropriate resonant circuit elements becomes vital in ensuring both reliable and efficient operation. This paper focuses on a novel and simplified design method for the SSQR inverter utilized in household appliances. The proposed method and its advantages in terms of the safe operating area of the switch are theoretically investigated and verified through simulations and prototype circuits.
Study of Nanoparticles by Dynamic Light Scattering: Processing Challenges
Authors: Annenkov Vadim
Published: August 2023

Nanoparticles are of great importance for various scientific and technological applications, drug discovery, ecology, molecular biology, etc. Size is a basic characteristic of any particle, and dynamic light scattering is beyond competition when measuring particle size in dispersions ranging from nanometers to micrometers. Unfortunately, this method has a serious problem in processing and interpreting experimental data. Instrument noise and polydispersity of the sample lead to the situation when one initial autocorrelation function corresponds to several different particle size distributions. Sometimes these different solutions of the inverse task can be found by changing parameters in the software. Sometimes the scientist cannot be suspicious of possible other solutions, having one result from the program. In this article I demonstrate the problem on model and experimental data using three known programs: CONTIN, the Malvern Zetasizer and DynaLS. I also present my own free program Autocor, which allows to test our own hypotheses about the modality and shape of the particle size distribution by optimizing the parameters of our own models with a small number of degrees of freedom.
Recent Advances of Single-atom Metal Supported at Two-dimensional MoS2 for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction and Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Jiahao , Gan Xiaorong , Zhu Tianhao , Zhao Dan , Ao Yanhui , Wang Peifang
Published: August 2023

Due to increasing concerns about global warming and energy crisis, intensive efforts have been made to explore renewable and clean energy sources. Single-atom metals and two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have attracted extensive attention in the fields of energy and environment because of their unique electronic structures and excellent properties. In this review, we sum-marize the state-of-art progress on the single-atom metal supported at 2D MoS2 (single-atom metal/2D MoS2) for electrochemical CO2 reduction and water splitting. First, we introduce the advantages of single-atom metal/2D MoS2 catalysts in the fields of electrocatalytic CO2 reduction and water splitting, followed by the strategies for improving electrocatalytic performances of single-atom metal/2D MoS2 hybrid nanomaterials and the typical preparation methods. Further, we discuss the important applications of the nanocomposites in electrocatalytic CO2 reduction and water splitting via some typical examples, particularly focusing on their synthesis routes, modification approaches, and physiochemical mechanisms for improving their electrocatalytic performances. Finally, our perspectives on the key challenges and future directions of exploring high-performance metal single-atom catalysts are presented based on recent achievements in the development of single-atom metal/2D MoS2 hybrid nanomaterials.
Instrumenting OpenCTI with a Capability for Attack Attribution Support
Authors: Ruohonen Sami , Kirichenko Alexey , Komashinskiy Dmitriy , Pogosova Mariam
Published: August 2023

In addition to identifying and prosecuting cyber attackers, attack attribution activities can provide valuable information guiding the defenders’ security procedures and giving them greater confidence in incident response and remediation. However, technical analysis involved in cyberattack attribution requires high skills, experience, access to up-to-date Cyber Threat Intelligence, and significant investigators’ effort. Attribution results are not always reliable, and skilful attackers often work hard to cover their traces and mislead or confuse investigators. In this article, we present a tool designed to support technical attack attribution and implemented as a machine learning model extending the OpenCTI platform. We also discuss the tool’s performance in the investigation of a recent cyberattack.
Experimental Investigation and Multi-objective Optimization of Savonius Wind Turbine Based on modified Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Ehsan , Karimi Omid , AsemanBakhsh Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2023

This study will lead to the development of a numerical data set that will assist in the design of Savonius wind turbines. A major objective of this study is to develop a better design for Savonius turbine blades in order to increase their torque coefficients, rotational speeds, and pressure coefficients. As part of the experimental design methodology, a full dataset was generated by simulating three-dimensional scale models utilizing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations that were validated by wind tunnel data. This process is multi-objective optimization for optimizing turbine performance. The twist angle, aspect ratio, and overlap ratio are all important factors in determining the optimal torque and power coefficients. The group method of data handling (GMDH) algorithm was utilized to model objective functions based on input-output data. The Pareto fronts were plotted using polynomial models obtained from the evolutionary Pareto-based optimization approach (modified NSGA-II), and the optimal commercial points were determined using TOPSIS. A comparison of three- and two-objective optimization data revealed that two-objective optimization data lie within the boundaries of a three-objective optimization problem. The torque coefficient, rotational speed, and power coefficient are all improved by 13.74%, 0.071%, and 5.32%, respectively, using multi-objective optimization. As a result of the multi-objective optimization of the turbine, some significant characteristics of objective functions were discovered.
First Identification and Molecular Characterization of Trichinella britovi in Pine Marten (Martes martes) in Romania
Authors: Marin Ana Maria , Mederle Ovidiu Alexandru , Marucci Gianluca , Popovici Dan Cornel , Mederle Narcisa
Published: August 2023

Trichinella spp. are etiological zoonotic agents spread throughout the world affecting mammals, birds, and rep-tiles, involved in the evolution of the two cycles, domestic and sylvatic. The pine marten (Martes martes) is a mammal carnivorous nocturnal from the family Mustelidae. In Romania, this host is widespread in all the forests of the country. The pine marten has an extremely voracious appetite, feeding on fruit but also on a variety of small animals, including rodents such as mice or rats. The aim of the study was identification and molecular characterization of Trichinella larvae isolated from the muscles of tree martens from different counties of Romania. The muscle samples were examined by artificial digestion, and the larvae were processed by multiplex PCR. Trichinella britovi, a species frequently identified in wild carnivores in temperate zones, has been confirmed. Although T. britovi has been reported in Romania to several host animals, this study confirms for the first time its presence in the pine marten, a result which undoubtedly underlines the fact that the parasitic reserve in the sylvatic environment is maintained at a consistent level, and the knowledge of these vector hosts remains a permanent concern of the specialists.
The Large American Liver Fluke (Fascioloides magna): A Survivor’s Journey through a Constantly Changing World
Authors: Csivincsik Ágnes , Halász Tibor , Nagy Gábor
Published: August 2023

The large American liver fluke (Fascioloides magna) is considered an invasive trematode parasite in Europe. Its origin dates back before the Cretaceous-Paleogene Mass Extinction, after which it survived at least three population bottlenecks, and successful host switches before it arrived in Europe. The authors review the evolutionary history of F. magna, the distribution by its ancient proboscidean hosts and the probable drivers of switch to the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). The review collects knowledge on the biology of intermediate hosts, which help understand the factors that influence the epidemiology of F. magna in aquatic ecosystems. The authors demonstrate the adaptation potential of the parasite by data from both the North American and the European endemics. Finally, the study calls attention to the epidemiological risk of human induced global change, with a special interest to the invasive snail species, Pseudosuccinea columella.
Nitrogen-Activated CLV3/ESR-Related 4 (CLE4) Regulates Shoot, Root and Stolon Growth in Potato
Authors: Gancheva Maria S. , Lutova Lyudmila A.
Published: August 2023

In potato, high levels of nitrogen (N) can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of tuber development, resulting in lower yield and poor quality tubers. We found that Solanum tuberosum CLE4 (StCLE4) is expressed most strongly in the roots on N-rich media and positively regulates root growth of potato in N-deficient conditions. We noted that StCLE4 functions as a negative regulator of normal shoot apex development similar to CLV3 in Arabidopsis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that overexpression of StCLE4 results in repression of the StIT1 gene, a regulator of potato tuber initiation. Overexpressing StCLE4 stolons were transformed into branches that were similar to milder it1 phenotype. We also found that NIN-like proteins, key regulators of nitrate signaling, bind to the regulatory sequence of StIT1 in yeast one-hybrid assay. Taken together, our findings suggest that StCLE4 regulates shoot, root and stolon growth in potato.
DG9, a Versatile Cell-Penetrating Peptide to Enhance Delivery of Antisense Oligonucleotide-Based Therapeutics
Authors: Haque Umme Sabrina , Yokota Toshifumi
Published: August 2023

Keywords: Antisense Oligonucleotides, Cell Penetrating Peptides, Delivery, DG9 peptide, Phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMO), Pip, R6G.
Investigation of Indoor Thermal Environment and Heat Using Behavior for Heat Metering Households in Northern China
Authors: Yang Xiu'e , Ji WenJie , Wang Chunhui , Wu Haidong
Published: August 2023

Heat using behavior has a large impact on in heating energy in heat metering system, and therefore a better understanding can assist in behavior guidance to reduce energy. To understand the current situation of indoor thermal environment and heat using behavior for heat metering households in northern China, including adjusting heating end valves and operating windows, 30 households were measured and surveyed. The factors influencing heat using behavior, including outdoor and indoor environmental parameters and time of the day, were analyzed. The results are :1) Thermal neutral temperature for heat metering households is relatively high, up to 24.5℃; 2) The heat using behavior of households is lack of rationality: low proportion of active households; high indoor temperature setting; more frequency of window opening. Improving indoor comfort is the main reason for households to adjust the heating end valve, and only 7.15% of households have considered the economic benefits brought by adjusting the valve. " Thermostat control valve does not work" is the main reason for households without adjustment; 3) Time of the day and indoor temperature affect active households’ willingness to adjusting heating end valve. Time of the day, indoor temperature and outdoor temperature have impacts on opening window during heating period.
The Ambiguous Nature of some Non-Starter Lactic Acid Bacteria Actively Participating in Cheese Ripening
Authors: Dimov Svetoslav G.
Published: August 2023

This mini-review deals with some non-starter lactic acid bacteria (NSLAB) species with a controversial nature known to be both human and animal pathogens but also health-promoting and probiotic. The focus is put on Lactococcus garvieae, two Streptococcus species (Str. uberis and Str. parauberis), four Weissella species (W. hellenica, W. confusa, W. paramesenteroides and W. cibaria) and Mammalicoccus sciuri which worldwide are often found within the microbiotas of different kinds of cheese, mainly traditional artisanal ones made from raw milk and/or relying on environmental bacteria for their ripening. Based on literature data, their virulence and health-promoting effects are examined, and some of the mechanisms of these actions are investigated. Additionally, their possible roles in cheese ripening are also discussed. The analysis so far showed that, in general, the pathogenic and the beneficial strains, despite belonging to the same species, show pretty different genetic constitutions. Yet, when the safety of a given strain is assessed, genomic analysis on its own is not enough, and a polyphasic approach is needed including additional physiological and functional tests.
Optimal Machine Learning Model for SOC Facilities’ Impact on Housing Prices
Authors: Paik Juryon , Baek Seung-June , Kim Jun-Wan , Ko Kwangho
Published: August 2023

In South Korea, the residential real estate market is influenced not just by traditional supply and demand dynamics, but also by external factors such as housing policies and macroeconomic conditions. Given the significant role of housing assets in individual wealth, market fluctuations can have profound implications. While prior research has utilized variables like GDP growth rate, patent issuance, and birth rates, and employed models like LSTM and ARIMA for housing price predictions, many overlook key localized factors. Notably, the impact of subway stations and living SOC facilities on housing prices, especially in metropolitan areas, remains underexplored. This study addresses these gaps by analyzing usage trends across subway stations, assessing the influence of living SOC facilities on housing values, and identifying the optimal machine learning model for price predictions near transport hubs. Through a comparative analysis of machine learning techniques, we aim to provide insights for more informed housing price determinations, promoting a more stable real estate market.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) and Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) in Portugal
Authors: Pires Humberto , Cardoso Luís , Lopes Ana Patrícia , Fontes Maria da Conceição , Santos-Silva Sérgio , Matos Manuela , Pintado Cristina , Figueira Luís , Matos Ana Cristina , Mesquita João Rodrigo , Coelho Ana Cláudia
Published: August 2023

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a zoonotic foodborne virus with an annual infection prevalence of 20 million human cases, which seriously affects public health and economic development in both developed and developing countries. To better understand the epidemiology of HEV in the Centre of Portugal, a cross-sectional study was conducted from 2016 to 2023 with sera samples from wild ungulates. The seroprevalence and risk factors for HEV seropositivity were evaluated in the present study. Specifically, antibodies against HEV were determined by a commercial enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA). Our results show that in the 650 sera collected from 298 wild red deer and 352 wild boars from Portugal, 9.1% red deer (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.312.9%) and 1.7% wild boar (95% CI: 0.63.3%) were positive for antibodies to HEV. Regarding age, the seropositivity in juvenile wild ungulates was 1.3% (95% CI: 0.273.72%) and 7.2% in adults (95% CI: 4.910.11%). Logistic regression models investigated risk factors for seropositivity. The odds of being seropositive was 3.6 higher in adults than in juveniles (95% CI: 1.7218.11%) and the risk was 4.2 higher in red deer than in wild boar (95% CI: 1.64–10.69%). Both wild ungulate species were exposed to HEV. The higher seroprevalence in red deer suggests that this species may have a major contribution to the ecology of HEV in the Centre of Portugal. Further research is important to understand how wildlife affects the epidemiology of HEV infection in Portugal.
SPI and SPEI Drought Assessment and Prediction Using TBATS and ARIMA Models: Observations Versus CSIC & CMIP6-ssp126 Projections
Authors: Hasan Nivin Abdelrahim , Dongkai Yang , Al-Shibli Fayha
Published: August 2023

Different drought indices are used to quantify its characteristics. This research applied many approaches to assessing the uncertain SPI and SPEI and the most capturing index of drought. Machine learning algorithms are used to predict drought; TBATS and ARIMA models run diverse input sources including observations, CSIC, and CMIP6-ssp126 datasets. The longest drought duration was 14 months. Drought severity and average intensity were found -24.64 and -1.76, -23.80 and -1.83, -23.57 and -1.96, -23.44 and -2.0 where the corresponding drought categories were SPI 12 -Sweileh, SPI 9 Sweileh, SPI 12 Wadi Dhullail, SPI 12 Amman-Airport. The dominant drought incident occurred between Oct 2020 and Dec 2021. CMIP6 can capture the drought occurrence and severity by measuring SPI but did not capture the severity magnitude same as from observations (-2.87 by observation and -1.77 by CMIP6). Using observed SPI and historical CMIP6, ARIMA was the most accurate than TBATS. Regarding SPEI forecast, ARIMA was the most accurate model to forecast drought index using the observed historical SPEI and CSIC over all stations. The performance metrics ME, RMSE, MAE, and MASE implied significantly promising forecasting models; -0.0046, 0.278, 0.179, & 0.193 respectively for ARIMA and -0.0181, 0.538, 0.416, & 0.466 respectively for TBATS. Hybrid modelling is suggested for more consistency and robustness of forecasting approaches.
Anomaly Detection in Power System State Estimation: Review and New Directions
Authors: Cooper Austin , Bretas Arturo , Meyn Sean
Published: August 2023

Foundational and state-of-the-art anomaly detection methods through power system state estimation are reviewed. The traditional components for bad data detection such as chi-square testing, residual-based methods, and hypothesis testing are discussed to explain the motivations for recent anomaly detection methods given the increasing complexity of power grids, energy management systems, and cyber-threats. In particular, state estimation anomaly detection based on data-driven quickest change detection and artificial intelligence are discussed and directions for research are suggested with particular emphasis on considerations of the future smart grid.
When Four Cyclic Antipodal Points Are Ordered Counterclockwise
Authors: UNGAR Abraham
Published: August 2023

A novel theoem is presented about a circle with four antipodal points, arbitrarily ordered counterclockwise (or clockwise), in a Euclidean plane.
Barriers to Antiretroviral Medication Adherence
in People Living with HIV (PLHIV)
at the time of COVID-19 Pandemic
in the Philippines
Authors: Joves Philip John , Matulac Melgar , Pagcatipunan Jr. Rodolfo
Published: August 2023

I. Introduction: Adherence to ART reduces morbidity and mortality among PLHIV by suppression of viral replication, restoration and preservation of immune function. However, poor adherence may lead to treatment failure and death. PLHIV have high probability of treatment interruptions due to lockdowns related to COVID-19 protocol. Mortality rate is higher among COVID-19 patients with HIV than those with COVID-19 only. This led to determination of the barriers to antiretroviral medication adherence in PLHIV at the time of COVID-19 pandemic and seek significant association between identified HIV treatment barriers and socio-demographic characteristics.

II. Methods: A cross-sectional study using online survey questionnaire was distributed via social media. Sample size was computed using Open Epi software. Data was analyzed using Stata software. Categorical variables and quantitative data were summarized using frequencies and percentages, and mean and standard deviation respectively. Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test, whichever is more appropriate, was used to determine association between socio-demographic characteristics and HIV treatment barriers.

III. Results: There is a total of 116 respondents, 115 were males, homosexual (59.5%), with mean age of 30.25 years old (SD = 6.22) and majority (53.4%) were from NCR. The most common HIV treatment barriers reported by PLHIV in accessing treatment and care were unavailability of transportation and cost of courier services for ARV delivery (62.1%), location of treatment hubs (52.6%) and financial assistance (37.9%).

IV. Conclusion: There is significant association between location of treatment hubs and respondents who finished college/graduate studies; checkpoints and crossing borders and: 1. respondents from Northern Luzon, 2. unemployment; financial assistance and: 1. Respondents 18 to 25 years old, 2. unemployment, 3. respondents who finished elementary/high school; psychosocial support and: 1. Respondents from NCR, 2. Respondents 26 to 30 years old;
Title: Novel Role of Connective Tissue Growth Factor in the Regulation of the Epithelial Phenotype
Authors: Gogoi Radhika , Galoforo Sandra , Fox Alexandra , Morris Colton , Ramos Harry , Gogoi Vir , Chehade Hussein , Adzibolosu Nicholas K. , Shi Chenjun , Zhang Jitao , Tedja Roslyn , Morris Robert , Alvero Ayesha B. , Mor Gil
Published: August 2023

Background: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a biological process where epithelial cells lose their adhesive properties and gain invasive, metastatic, and mesenchymal properties. Maintaining the balance between epithelial and mesenchymal stage is essential for tissue homeo-stasis. Many of the genes promoting mesenchymal transformation has been identified; however, our understanding of the genes responsible for maintaining the epithelial phenotype is limited. Our objective was to identify genes responsible for maintaining the epithelial phenotype and in-hibiting EMT. Methods: RNA seq was performed using an vitro model of EMT. CTGF expres-sion was determined by qPCR and Western blot analysis. Knockout of CTGF was done using the CTGF sgRNA CRISPR/CAS9. Tumorigenic potential was determined using NCG mice. Results: Knocked-out of CTGF in epithelial ovarian cancer cells leads to the acquisition of functional characteristics associated with the mesenchymal phenotype such as Anoikis resistance, cytoskel-eton remodeling, increased cell stiffness, and acquisition of invasion and tumorigenic capacity. Conclusions: We identified CTGF is an important regulator of the epithelial phenotype, and its loss is associated with early cellular modifications required for EMT. We describe a novel role for CTGF, regulating cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix interactions necessary for conserva-tion of epithelial structure and function. These findings provide a new window to understand the early stages on mesenchymal transformation
Diffusion Denoising Process with Gated U-Net for High-Quality Document Binarization
Authors: Han Sangkwon , Ji Seungbin , Rhee Jongtae
Published: August 2023

Binarization of degraded documents is an important preprocessing task for various document analysis such as OCR and historical document analysis. Existing studies have applied various convolutional neural network (CNN) models and generative models for document binarization, but they do not show generalized performance for noise that the model has not seen and it suffers from extracting elaborate text strokes. In this paper, to overcome these challenges, we utilize latent diffusion model (LDM), which is known for high-quality image generation model, for the first time in document binarization. By utilizing the iterative diffusion-denoising process in latent space, it shows high-quality cleaned binarized image generation and high generalized performance through using both data distribution and time step while training. Additionally, we apply gated U-Net to the backbone network to preserve text strokes using trainable gating value. Gated convolution can extract elaborate text stroke by allowing the model to focus on text region by combining gating value and feature. Furthermore, we maximize the effectiveness of the proposed model by training it with a combination of LDM loss and pixel-level loss, which is suitable for the model structure. Experiments on H-DIBCO and DIBCO benchmark datasets show that the proposed model outperforms existing methods.
Evil Geniuses Bullshit You, But You Cannot Bullshit Them: Interactions between Machiavellianism and Intelligence in Bullshit Production and Detection
Authors: Blötner Christian
Published: August 2023

Persons high in the manipulative, misanthropic trait Machiavellianism have been shown to make use of various forms of deception to attain their goals. A recent study has furthermore shown that different facets of Machiavellianism account for the production and detection of deception. Intelligence is another substantial predictor of successful deception production and detection. This research examined the interactions between different facets of Machiavellianism and verbal reasoning to predict both the production and detection of empty and vague, but effective pseudo-information that is supposed to help achieve desired states or prevent undesired ones (co-called bullshit). In a sample of 525 participants, and consistent with the hypotheses, individuals with high scores in the goal-oriented (harm-avoiding) facet of Machiavellianism produced bullshit more frequently to achieve certain goals (to circumvent any disadvantageous situations) if they also possessed high scores in verbal reasoning. In addition, verbal reasoning helped individuals high in the distrustful facet of Machiavellianism discriminate bullshit from non-bullshit. Thus, Machiavellianism combined with verbal skills helps produce and recognize deception.
Deep Learning-Based Link Quality Estimation for RIS-Assisted UAV-Enabled Wireless Communications System
Authors: Tesfaw Belayneh Abebe , Juang Rong-Terng , Ta Li-Chia , Lin Hsin-Piao , Tarekegn Getaneh Berie , Nathanael And Kabore Wendenda
Published: August 2023

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become a valuable platform for many applications, including communication networks. UAV-enabled wireless communication faces challenges in complex urban and dynamic environments. UAVs can suffer from power limitations and path losses caused by non-line-of-sight connections, which may hamper better communication performance. To address these issues, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) have been proposed as a helpful tool to enhance UAV communication networks. However, due to the high mobility of UAV, complex channel environments, and dynamic RIS configurations, it is challenging to estimate the link quality of ground users. In this paper, we propose a link quality estimation model using a gated recurrent unit (GRU) to assess the link quality of ground users for a multi-user RIS-assisted UAV-enabled wireless communication system. Our proposed framework uses a time series of user channel data and RIS phase shift information to estimate the quality of the link for each ground user. Simulation results showed that the proposed GRU model effectively and accurately estimates the link quality of the ground users in the RIS-assisted UAV-enabled wireless communication network.
Surface Modification of Carbon Fibers
Authors: Pulidindi Indra Neel , Gedanken Aharon
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the review is to provide new insight into the potential of surface modification of carbon fibers for enhancing the application of the carbon fibers many a fold. To this end a total of 429 papers on the subject of surface modication of carbon fibers by a variety of chemical and electrochemical methods published during the period from 2010-2022 have been reviewed. Astounding results of surface funcationalization of carbon fibers by a variety of state of the art methods resulting in the unconventional applications of the resulting modified carbon fibers are summarized in a nut-shell in schemes from 1-6 towards the end of the review. Surface modifica-tion induces functionality to carbon fibers (CFs). The vitality of CF surface modification reac-tions could only be compared to the life process of respiration that sustains the multi functional-ity of living cells. Applicability of CFs can be drastically enhanced in incomprehensible ways by surface modification. Upon surface modification, inert and non-reactive CF surface becomes chemically active and functional with utility in diverse fields, namely, health, energy, environ-ment, defense, catalysis, smart materials and many others. Surface modification methods can be broadly classified into chemical, electrochemical and physical methods. By these surface modi-fication methods, the inert FC surface becomes polar. Surface properties like roughness, wetta-bility and energy are enhanced. Modification processes like sizing, oxidation, amination, si-lanization, polymerization, nanoarchitecture induces multifunctionality on CF surface. Modi-fied CFs when used as reinforcing material in carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRPs), im-proved bonding at the interface with resin matrices is observed with enhanced and outstanding mechanical properties (flexural strength, flexural modulus, IFSS, ILSS, hardness, elastic modulus, bending strength and compression strength).
Understanding Proteinuria in Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease and Progress of Drug Therapy from a New Perspective
Authors: Zhang Ruimin , Wang Qian , Zhou Xuefeng , Li Qihu , Dong Zheyi , Chen Xiangmei
Published: August 2023

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the leading causes of end-stage renal disease worldwide and significantly increases the risk of premature death due to cardiovascular diseases. Elevated urinary albumin levels are an important clinical feature of DKD. Effective control of albuminuria not only delays glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decline but also markedly reduces cardiovascular disease risk and all-cause mortality. New drugs for treating DKD proteinuria, including sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and endothelin receptor antagonists (REAs), have shown significant efficacy. Auxiliary treatment with proprietary Chinese medicine has also yielded promising results; however, it also faces a broader scope for development. The mechanisms by which these drugs treat albuminuria in patients with DKD should be described more thoroughly. The positive effects of combination therapy with two or more drugs in reducing albuminuria and protecting the kidneys warrant further investigation. Therefore, this review explores the pathophysiological mechanism of albuminuria in patients with DKD, the value of clinical diagnosis and prognosis, new progress and mechanisms of treatment, and multidrug therapy in patients who have type 2 diabetic kidney disease (T2DKD), providing a new perspective on the clinical diagnosis and treatment of DKD.
QTL and Candidate Genes that Control Seed Sugars Contents in the Soybean
‘Forrest’ By ‘Williams 82’ RIL Population
Authors: Knizia Dounya , Bellaloui Nacer , Yuan Jiazheng , Lakhssassi Naoufal , Anil Erdem , Vuong Tri , Embaby Mohamed G. , Nguyen Henry T , Mengistu Alemu , Meksem Khalid , Kassem Abdelmajid My
Published: August 2023

Soybean seed sugars are among the most abundant beneficial compounds for human and animal
consumption in soybean seeds. Higher seed sugars such as sucrose are desirable as it contributes
to taste and flavor in soy-based food. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to use ‘Forrest’
by ‘Williams 82’ (F×W82) recombinant inbred line (RIL) soybean population (n=309) to identify
quantitative trait loci (QTL) and candidate genes that control seed sugar (sucrose, stachyose, and
raffinose) contents in two environments (North Carolina and Illinois) over two years (2018 and
2020). A total of 26 QTL that control seed sugars contents were identified and mapped on 16
soybean chromosomes (chrs.). Interestingly, five QTL regions were identified in both locations,
Illinois and North Carolina, in this study on chrs. 2, 5, 13, 17, and 20. Amongst 57 candidate genes
identified in this study, 16 were located within 10 Megabase (MB) of the identified QTL. Amongst
them a cluster of four genes involved in the sugars’ pathway was collocated within 6 MB with two
QTL that were detected in this study on chr. 17. Further functional validation of the identified
genes could be beneficial in breeding programs to produce soybean lines with high beneficial
sucrose and low raffinose family oligosaccharides.
The Role of Strength-Related Factors on Psychological Readiness for Return to Sport following Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction
Authors: Lee Oliver , Williams Mark A , Shaw Clare D , Delextrat Anne
Published: August 2023

Psychological readiness following Anterior Cruciate ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) correlates with different return to sport outcomes. However, the relationship between strength and power and psychological readiness remains unexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI) scores and various hamstrings and quadriceps strength and power variables. Twelve participants (20.7±2.5 years old; 174.2±7.5 cm; 70.2±8.5 kg; 18.2±8.3% of body fat) who had an ACLR nine months or more before the study completed the ACL-RSI questionnaire and isokinetic strength testing of the hamstrings and quadriceps (60°.s-1 and 180°.s-1). Based on ACL-RSI scores, they were divided into “cases” and “controls”, deemed not psychologically ready and psychologically ready to return to previous sport performance (PILOS), respectively. The main findings are that quadriceps’ and hamstrings’ rate of torque development (RTD) and time since surgery were determinants of psychological readiness following ACLR. Furthermore, compared to controls cases showed significantly lower angle-specific quadriceps and hamstrings torque close to extension and lower RTD, but no difference in peak torque. These results suggest that physiotherapists should facilitate athletes’ RTS by focusing on the restoration of RTD and strength at angles close to full knee extension.
Improved Transient Performance of DFIG-Based Wind-Power System Using Combined Control of Active Crowbars
Authors: Ali Muhammad Arif Sharafat
Published: August 2023

A significant electromotive force is induced in the rotor circuit of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) due to its high vulnerability to grid faults. Therefore, the system performance must be increased with appropriate control actions that can successfully offset such abnormalities in order to provide consistent and stable operations during grid disturbances. In this regard, this paper presents a solution based on a combination of an energy storage-based crowbar and a rotor-side crowbar that makes the effective transient current and voltage suppression for wind-driven DFIG possible. The core of the solution is its ability to restrict the transient rotor and stator overcurrents and DC-link overvoltages within their prescribed limits, aiming to protect the DFIG and power converters, and consequently, improve the system’ ability to ride-through faults. Further, the capacity of an energy storage device for transient suppression is estimated. Finally, simulation results show that the proposed approach is effective in achieving transient control objectives precisely and maintaining a stable grid connection during the faults.
Semaphorin 3A Signaling in Kidney Development and Diseases
Authors: Sang Yizhen , Tsuji Kenji , Nakanoh Hiroyuki , Fukushima Kazuhiko , Kitamura Shinji , Wada Jun
Published: August 2023

Kidney diseases are worldwide public health problems affecting millions of people. However, there are still limited therapeutic options against kidney diseases. Semaphorin 3A (SEMA3A) is the secreted and membrane-associated proteins, which regulate diverse functions, including immune regulation, cell survival, migration and angiogenesis, thus involving in the several pathogeneses of diseases, including eyes and neurons, as well as kidneys. SEMA3A is expressed in podocytes and tubular cells in the normal adult kidney, and recent evidence revealed that excess SEMA3A expression and subsequent signaling pathway aggravates kidney injury in a variety of kidney diseases, including nephrotic syndrome, diabetic nephropathy, acute kidney injury, and chronic kidney disease. In addition, several reports demonstrated that inhibition of SEMA3A ameliorated kidney injury via reduction of cell apoptosis, fibrosis and inflammation, thus SE-MA3A may be a potential therapeutic target for kidney diseases. In this review article, we summarized current knowledges regarding the role of SEMA3A signaling in kidney pathophysiology and their potential use in kidney diseases.
Evaluation of Tsunami Disasters Caused by the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake
Authors: Kaneko Hiroyuki
Published: August 2023

The 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake is one of the earthquakes that have occurred multiple times in the past as part of the Sagami Trough earthquakes. These earthquakes, which occurred at the plate boundary, occurred in 1495 (Meio Earthquake), 1703 (Genroku Earthquake), and again in 1923, causing significant damage to various areas in Kanto, including Tokyo and Yokohama, and it came to be known as the Great Kanto Earthquake. The Sagami Trough earthquakes have consistently brought strong tsunami disasters to various areas in Kanto, extending from the Sagami Bay coast to the Boso Peninsula, and residents along the coast were highly aware of the risk of tsunamis occurring after major earthquakes. Although a tsunami occurred in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, it is believed to have had a wave height approximately half that of the tsunami in the Genroku Earthquake. However, this tsunami destroyed the livelihoods of villages and caused significant damage. In this study, we aim to reexamine historical records related to the tsunami in the Great Kanto Earthquake and objectively evaluate the actual situation of this tsunami disaster.
IDENTIFIKASI KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KRITIS SISWA PADA PEMBELAJARAN IPA DI SDN GUGUS 1 KECAMATAN DUREN SAWIT
Authors: Tri Wahyuni Ida , Sari Prima Mutia , Kowiyah Kowiyah
Published: August 2023

Abstrack: This study aims to determine the identification of students’ critical thinking skills in science learning at SDN Gugus 1 Duren Sawit District. This study used a quantitative descriptive research method using survey method. The research population was SDN Gugus 1 Duren Sawit District and the sample was SDN Duren Sawit 02, 10 and 14 Pagi. The sampling technique  was cluster random sampling. The data was collected by using critical thinking skills tests, interviews and documentation. The results showed that the average of critical thinking skills in SDN Gugus 1 students Duren Sawit District was 35,14 in the moderate category. The average score of critical thinking in SDN Duren Sawit 02 Pagi was 39,74 in the moderate category, SDN Duren Sawit 10 Pagi was 34,91 in the low category, and SDN Duren Sawit 14 Pagi was 30,78 in the low category. The highest furthemore indicator of critical thinking in SDN Gugus 1 Duren Sawit District, namely SDN Duren Sawit 02 Pagi the average score was 39, 74 in the moderate category, SDN Duren Sawit 10 Pagi got an average score of 34,91 with the low category and SDN Duren Sawit 14 Pagi have an average value of 30,78 in the low category, while the results of the study on the average of each indicator show that the highest indicator in SDN Gugus 1 Duren Sawit District on the indicator provides further explanation with an average score 38 and the lowest indicator in SDN Gugus 1 Duren Sawit District on indicators og managing strategies and tactics with an average score of 31.
ANALISIS KESIAPAN GURU MENGIMPLEMENTASIKAN ASESMEN AUTENTIK DALAM KURIKULUM MERDEKA BELAJAR
Authors: Cholifah Tur Rosidah  , Pramulia Pana , Susiloningsih Wahyu
Published: August 2023

Asesmen autentik dapat digunakan seiring dengan penerapan Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar. Artikel ini memaparkan tentang kesiapan guru mengimplementasikan asesmen autentik dalam Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar yang mencakup persiapan, pelaksanaan, serta analisis dan pelaporan hasil asesmen. Tujuan penulisan untuk memaparkan gambaran faktual tentang kesiapan guru dalam melaksanakan kurikulum Merdeka Belajar terkait dengan asesmen autentik. Penulisan artikel dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode deskriptif melalui studi kepustakaan. Artikel dibuat berdasarkan permasalahan yang dialami guru yang terungkap melalui Focus Group Discussion (FGD) yang dilakukan saat pelaksanaan Kerja Kelompok Guru (KKG) yang melibatkan 50 guru di kecamatan Gondang Mojokerto Jawa Timur. Hasil FGD tersebut menunjukkan bahwa guru mengalami berbagai permasalahan berkaitan dengan penerapan asesmen autentik di antaranya (1) asumsi bahwa asesmen autentik terlalu rumit karena harus membuat rubrik kemudian mengonversikan sebelum menginput dalam daftar nilai; (2) kesulitan dalam pemilahan dan pembagian nilai apabila dalam satu rubrik mencakup beberapa muatan pelajaran; (3) belum ada pelatihan yang secara khusus dilakukan untuk pembuatan perencanaan penilaian autentik. Hasil kajian yang dilakukan disertai wawancara singkat dengan beberapa guru menunjukkan bahwa secara teoretis guru cukup siap dan cukup memahami hakikat asesmen autentik. Namun, dalam penerapannya guru masih membutuhkan banyak belajar agar lebih terampil dan mudah dalam menerapkannya. Sehingga dapat dikatakan bahwa guru kurang siap dalam menerapkan penilaian autentik, karena penilaian yang dilakukan masih terkesan seadanya sesuai dengan rubrik yang tersedia dalam buku guru saja. Belum dilakukan pengembangan rubrik penilaian.
Opioid-Free Analgesia Provides Pain Control Following Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Hysong Alexander A. , Odum Susan M. , Lake Nicholas H. , Hietpas Kayla T. , Michalek Caleb J. , Hamid Nady , Gaston Raymond G. , Loeffler Bryan J. ,   the CORE Study Group
Published: August 2023

Update:

This article was updated on July 22, 2024, because of a previous error. On page 1757, the Note that had read “The CORE Study Group includes Todd M. Chapman Jr., MD; Bruce E. Cohen, MD; Patrick M. Connor, MD; Brian M. Curtin, MD; W. Hodges Davis, MD; J. Kent Ellington, MD; James E. Fleischli, MD; Samuel E. Ford, MD; Todd A. Irwin, MD; Carroll P. Jones III, MD; R. Alden Milam IV, MD; Bryan M. Saltzman, MD; P. Bradley P. Segebarth; Shadley C. Schiffern, MD; and Scott B. Shawen, MD.” now reads “The CORE Study Group includes Todd M. Chapman Jr., MD; Bruce E. Cohen, MD; Patrick M. Connor, MD; Brian M. Curtin, MD; W. Hodges Davis, MD; J. Kent Ellington, MD; James E. Fleischli, MD; Samuel E. Ford, MD; Todd A. Irwin, MD; Carroll P. Jones III, MD; Daniel P. Leas, MD; R. Alden Milam IV, MD; Bryan M. Saltzman, MD; P. Bradley Segebarth, MD; Shadley C. Schiffern, MD; and Scott B. Shawen, MD.”

An erratum has been published: J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2024 Sep 4;106(17):e39.

Background:

We hypothesized that an opioid-free (OF), multimodal pain management pathway for thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthroplasty would not have inferior pain control compared with that of a standard opioid-containing (OC) pathway.

Methods:

This was a single-center, randomized controlled clinical trial of patients undergoing primary thumb CMC joint arthroplasty. Patients were randomly allocated to either a completely OF analgesic pathway or a standard OC analgesic pathway. Patients in both cohorts received a preoperative brachial plexus block utilizing 30 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine that was administered via ultrasound guidance. The OF group was given a combination of cryotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, acetaminophen, and gabapentin. The OC group was only given cryotherapy and opioid-containing medication for analgesia. Patient-reported pain was assessed with use of a 0 to 10 numeric rating scale at 24 hours, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks postoperatively. We compared the demographics, opioid-related side effects, patient satisfaction, and Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12) results between these 2 groups.

Results:

At 24 hours postoperatively, pain scores in the OF group were statistically noninferior to, and lower than, those in the OC group (median, 2 versus 4; p = 0.008). Pain scores continued to differ significantly at 2 weeks postoperatively (median, 2 versus 4; p = 0.001) before becoming more similar at 6 weeks (p > 0.05). No difference was found between groups with respect to opioid-related side effects, patient satisfaction, or VR-12 results.

Conclusions:

A completely opioid-free perioperative protocol is effective for the treatment of pain following thumb CMC joint arthroplasty in properly selected patients.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.