bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of High Glucose on Embryological Development of Zebrafish, Brachyodanio rerio through Wnt Pathway
Authors: Thompson Ebony , Hensley Justin , Taylor Renfang Song
Published: July 2024

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDMs) is worldly wide pregnancy complication. Gestational Diabetes can significantly impact the fetus development. However, the effects of high glucose on embryological development post-fertilization are yet to be researched. Danio rerio embryos are great model to study the embryonic development. In this study, the effects on embryological (morphological and genetic) development were examined in the presence of a high glucose environment that mimic the developing fetus in pregnant women with GMD. Fertilized Zebrafish embryos were treated with normal media and high glucose for 5 days from 3 hours post-fertilization(hpf) to 96hpf respectively as control and experimental groups. Morphological changes are recorded with Microscope images. Hatch rate and heart rate are compared between groups in set up time points. RNA-Seq is performed to examine the gene changes in experimental group. Glucose delayed the zebrafish embryo development by slowing the hatch rate about 24 hours. The brain, heart, and tail started showing morphology smaller in the glucose group compared to the control group at 24 hpf. Heart rate is faster in the glucose group compared to the control group on day 2 and 3 with a statistically significant difference. Among zebrafish whole genome, the significantly changed genes are 556 genes up-regulated and 1118 genes down-regulated respectively in high glucose group. The metabolic and Wnt pathways are altered under high glucose condition. These conditions contribute to significant physiological differences that may provide insight on functionality post-embryological development.
Personality and Cooperation: Cooperativeness Trait as a Robust Predictor of Cooperative Behavior
Authors: Deng Xiaoqi , Hosseini Sarinasadat , Miyake Yoshihiro , Nozawa Takayuki
Published: July 2024

Cooperation is essential in social life, involving collaborative efforts for mutual benefit. Individual differences in the cooperativeness trait are pivotal in these interactions. Previous research suggested that Duchenne smiles signal cooperative intent, and human-like eyes are theorized to enhance cooperation evolutionarily. However, the relationships between cooperative behavior, cooperativeness and possible behavioral cues signaling cooperative behavior are yet to be studied. In the current study, we explored the relationships among cooperativeness, Duchenne smiling with gaze, IBS during conversation, and their impacts on cooperative behavior. We hypothesized Duchenne smiling with gaze would mediate cooperativeness’ impact on cooperative behavior. Additionally, using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), we evaluated inter-brain synchrony (IBS) in the left prefrontal region, expecting it to predict cooperative behavior. The results demonstrated that cooperativeness significantly predicted Duchenne smiling with gaze and cooperative behavior, however, Duchenne smiling with gaze did not mediate the relationship between them. We further conducted a path analysis to examine the role of IBS during conversation in successive cooperative behavior. The path analysis result showed that cooperativeness directly affected cooperative behavior. Cooperativeness significantly predicted Duchenne smiling with gaze, however, neither Duchenne smiling with gaze nor IBS during conversation predicted successive cooperative behavior. These results suggest dispositional factors like cooperativeness may play a more decisive role than momentary expressional cues or neural synchrony in naturalistic unstructured communication in shaping cooperative behavioral outcomes after the communication. The study highlights how personality traits like cooperativeness shape nonverbal communication and social interactions.
Assessing Misophonia in Young Adults: Prevalence and Psychometric Validation of the MisoQuest Questionnaire
Authors: Silva Lourival Almeida , Noll Matias , Siqueira Gabriel Cunha , Barbosa Alana Karolyne Neves
Published: July 2024

Misophonia, characterized by strong emotional reactions to specific sounds, poses significant challenges, particularly in academic settings. This study investigates the prevalence and psychometric properties of the MisoQuest, a tool designed to assess misophonia, in a sample of 549 high school and university students (Mean age = 23.2 years, SD = 9.3). The sample included 285 females, 260 males, and four individuals who did not disclose their gender. Using a predefined cutoff score of 61 on the MisoQuest, 4.5% of the participants were identified as positive for misophonia. Psychometric evaluation of the MisoQuest involved both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). EFA results indicated a dominant single-factor structure, with the first factor explaining the majority of the variance. The scree plot further supported this unidimensional model. CFA confirmed the single-factor structure, with most items showing factor loadings between 0.36 and 0.58. Despite some non-significant factor loadings, the model indicated a substantial relationship between the items and the underlying factor. The high internal consistency of the MisoQuest was demonstrated by a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.93. These findings are consistent with previous studies on misophonia prevalence and support the use of the MisoQuest as a reliable assessment tool. Given the observed prevalence and the significant impact of misophonia on students’ academic and social lives, early identification and targeted support are essential. This study contributes to the understanding of misophonia in young adults and underscores the need for further research and tailored interventions.
Study on the Wear Resistance Performance of Hot Rolled BTW1/Q345 Composite Plate Under Different Annealing Temperature
Authors: Huang Lei , Wang Ke , Meng Wenjun , Wang Zhixia , Liu Pengtao
Published: July 2024

Wear-resistant steel/carbon steel composite plate not only has the double performance advantage of high strength and wear-resistance, but also can reduce energy consumption and production cost. Based on 50% reduction rate, the wear resistance of BTW1/Q345 composite was studied at different annealing temperatures, and the dry friction and wear tests of BTW1/Q345 composite at different annealing temperatures were carried out by using RETC MFT-5000. The macro-micro morphology and wear mechanism of wear marks at different annealing temperatures were analyzed by using white light interference three-dimensional surface profiler, Scanning electron microscope scanning electron microscope (SEM) and backscatter electron diffraction (EBSD) . The results show that with the increase of annealing temperature, the grain size near the scratch of BTW1 in the wear-resistant layer of the composite plate is refined, and the wear-resistant property is higher than that of the original sample.When the annealing temperature is 860℃,the wear resistance is the best.
Critical Investigation of Surrogate Modeling Based on Simultaneous Physics-Informed Deep Learning of the High Reynolds Number Flow around Airfoils under Variable Angles of Attack
Authors: Harmening Jan Hauke , Peitzmann Franz-Josef , el Moctar Ould
Published: July 2024

Physics-informed neural networks can be trained to serve as surrogate models by learning how spatial physical fields develop with change of parameters. This is an advantage over traditional numerical methods that can only be used to calculate a single solution field for a single discrete setting of a parameter. While many studies report accurate results of physics-informed deep learning of laminar flows, evaluations of surrogate modeling of high Reynolds number flows remain sparse. To contribute to this question, we here explore the capabilities and limits of physics-informed deep learning to solve the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations for the flow around two airfoils under variable angles of attack. No labeled training data were provided and a single network was trained to simultaneously learn several solution fields in a single training run. The network captured essential flow features such as boundary layers and high and low pressure regions. Moreover, the qualitative correlations of lift and drag with the angle of attack and the higher drag of the thicker airfoil were captured. However, comparisons with reference simulations revealed an underestimation of the shear layer gradients as well as deviations of the fields' extrema. Thus, we also debate potential future improvements to increase the accuracy of the predicted flow. This work offers a prospect on the capabilities and current limitations of physics-informed neural networks for surrogate modeling of high Reynolds number flows. We argue that the method is promising and this work is aimed to encourage further research and development of the method when applied to Reynolds-averaged flows at high Reynolds numbers.
The Menstrual Cycle as a Vital Sign: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Rosen Vollmar Ana K. , Mahalingaiah Shruthi , Jukic Anne Marie
Published: July 2024

Some medical professional organizations have advocated for including the menstrual cycle as a vital sign in adolescence, but not in adulthood. However, documenting menstrual cycle patterns is not routine clinical or research practice. Vital signs are used to predict health outcomes, indicate needed treatment, and monitor a clinical course. They can help identify pathologies, affirm wellness, and are responsive to exposures. Here we review the scientific evidence showing how the menstrual cycle meets these criteria and should therefore be treated as a vital sign. Using key words and controlled vocabulary terms, we carried out multiple literature searches, prioritizing the inclusion of systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical practice guidelines. This review describes how the menstrual cycle is a health indicator, can cyclically impact health conditions, and its associations with long-term post-menopausal health outcomes. We review exposures influencing the menstrual cycle, evidence underlying its use to optimize wellness, and available tools for documenting cycles. Supplementary materials include patient handouts on menstrual cycle tracking, and an index of related clinical practice guidelines and reviews by subject. The menstrual cycle is a vital sign from menarche through menopause, an underutilized but powerful tool for understanding gynecological and general health.
Speed Limits in São Paulo and the Actions for Road Safety and Air Quality
Authors: Gonçalves Douglas , Miranda Regina Maura de , Perez-Martinez Pedro Jose , Daroncho Celio , Dunck Joao , Dias Oliveira Janini , Rodrigues Teixeira Fabircio
Published: July 2024

Studies carried out have revealed that every day around three thousand and twelve people lose their lives in the world due to traffic accidents and poor air quality. Large cities, with their millions of inhabitants and vehicles, face many problems relating to vehicular traffic. In 2015 the speed limit was modified on several roads in the city of São Paulo-Brazil. However, in 2017 the speed limits were increased again, but not on all previous routes. This study analyzed the impact of this change on the number of accidents and pollutant concentrations, over a period of ten years, comparing the periods before and after the implementation of the measure, using real data collected and provided by the authorities of the city and the state transit and environmental companies, on more than forty routes and two nearby air quality stations. The results show a clear reduction in the number of accidents without victims on the roads of the city of São Paulo starting in 2010. However, the restrictive measures imposed by government officials may have contributed to the decrease in the number of accidents, but the number of fatalities has not changed much. Air pollution has not improved substantially with speed changes, as new speed increases have been linked to new episodes of congestion. The average number of fatalities due to accidents has been increasing since 2010 and accidents are becoming more serious. The application of a general linear statistical model (GLM) estimated the impact of the speed reduction policy in terms of the number of injuries avoided per month: 43.4 and 14.1 on other roads and on Pinheiros marginal, respectively. The results highlight the need for a constant data collection by the authorities in cities with high vehicle traffic. The important temporal time trend in terms of reduction of injuries but not in terms of fatalities and air quality, shows the need to apply joint public policies, not only speed reduction, but also the use of new technologies and raising drivers’ awareness of the problem.
The ATTO 565 Dye and its Applications in Microscopy
Authors: Wu Yuheng , Williams René M.
Published: July 2024

ATTO 565, a Rhodamine-type dye, has garnered significant attention due to its remarkable optical properties, such as a high fluorescence quantum yield, it is a relatively stable structure, and has low biotoxicity. ATTO 565 has found extensive applications in combination with microscopy technology. In this review, the chemical and optical properties of ATTO 565 are introduced, along with the principles behind them. Then, the functionality of ATTO 565 in confocal microscopy, stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy, single-molecule tracking (SMT) techniques, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) is discussed. These studies demonstrate that ATTO 565 plays a crucial role in areas such as biological imaging and single-molecule localization, thus warranting further in-depth investigation. Finally, we present some prospects and concepts for the future applications of ATTO 565 in the fields of biocompatibility and metal ion detection.
Radish Root Ferment Filtrate for Cosmetic Preservation: A Study of Efficacy of Kopraphinol©
Authors: Juliano Claudia C.A. , Magrini Giovanni Antonio
Published: July 2024

The objective of this investigation was to characterize the antimicrobial activity of the natural preservative, intended for cosmetic purpose, Kopraphinol (INCI name: Lactobacillus/Radish Root Ferment Extract Filtrate). It was tested against a panel of selected bacteria and mycetes by using conventional microbiological techniques (determination of MIC, time killing assay), and a chal-lenge test was used to verify its potential preservative in an O/W cream. Kopraphinol has shown an interesting antimicrobial effectiveness comparable to methylparaben. Moreover, it fulfilled challenge test criterion A and has proven effective against microbial contamination. The results obtained show that Kopraphinol can be considered a promising and effective candidate for anti-microbial preservation of cosmetics and could successfully complement or even replace conven-tional preservatives.
Photosynthetic Activity and Growth of Four Arabica Coffee Genotypes under Water Deficit
Authors: Tezara Wilmer , Loyaga Daniel W , Reynel Victor H , Herrera Ana
Published: July 2024

Due to the genotype-dependent effects of water deficit (WD) on coffee physiology, climate change raises the risk of coffee yield. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of WD on physiological and growth traits in arabica coffee (Coffea arabica L.). Water status, photosynthetic response to in-tercellular concentration of CO2 (A/Ci curves) and growth parameters were evaluated in seedlings of four genotypes (Catimor ECU 02, Cavimor ECU, red Caturra and Sarchimor 4260). Most of the physiological traits evaluated differed significantly among genotypes. Between control and WD plants, there were significant differences in A/Ci parameters, showing a wide range of values for photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and water use efficiency, with decreases ranging from 4 to 74%. Maximum rate of carboxylation by RuBisCO, maximum electron transport rate through photosystem II, and triose phosphate utilization rate were all strongly reduced by WD 61 % (red Caturra and Sarchimor 4260), followed by Cavimor ECU (35 %) and 24 % in Catimor ECU 02. Differences in response to WD among genotypes suggest possible genotypic differences in toler-ance. The results indicated that Catimor ECU 02 and Cavimor ECU were less sensitive to WD, while red Caturra and Sarchimor 4260 were the most susceptible.
Can Social Identities Improve Working Students’ Academic and Social Outcomes? Lessons From Three Studies
Authors: Grozev Vladislav H , Easterbrook Matthew
Published: July 2024

Previous literature has linked working for pay while attending university with negative academic and health outcomes, yet working students are often resilient when experiencing such adverse circumstances. This makes it crucial to explore potential psychological mechanisms which transform adverse experiences into sources of motivation and persistence for working students. We explore one mechanism – social identification – and its different foci – identifying as a student, employee, working student, or as a student of one’s discipline of study – as potential predictors of important academic (academic self-efficacy, approaches to learning, and academic achievement) and social (status in society) outcomes in three cross-sectional studies. In Study 1, part-time working hours (but not identification processes) were associated with academic self-efficacy. In Study 2, discipline identification and part-time working hours were associated with using deep approaches to learning. In Study 3, student identification was associated with increased status in society. Overall, discipline identification may be solely linked to academic outcomes, yet student identification should be explored further as a potential enhancer of social and graduate outcomes. We discuss additional mechanisms which can help to transform working students’ experiences through their social identities and suggest boundary conditions which can affect the link between these identities and important outcomes.
Integrated Ultrasound Characterization of the Diet-Induced Obesity (Dio) Model in Young Adult C57bl/6j Mice: Assessment of Cardiovascular, Renal and Hepatic Changes
Authors: Gargiulo Sara , Barone Virginia , Bonente Denise , Tamborrino Tiziana , Inzalaco Giovanni , Gherardini Lisa , Bertelli Eugenio , Chiariello Mario
Published: July 2024

Overconsumption of an unbalanced diet and overweight, leading to insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hepatic steatosis, cardiovascular diseases and obesity, is nowadays a worldwide health issue, with different patterns of metabolic disturbances in the young and adult popula-tions, in both gender. Preclinical models that closely mimic the gradual weight gain that occurs in humans upon consumption of a “western-type” diet (WD) are of great interest. In particular, the diet-induced obesity (DIO) model in the C57BL/6J mouse sub-strain is often used in biomed-ical research, considering that it is prone to metabolic disorders and obesity, and is widely used to generate genetically modified mice. This study aimed to phenotypically characterize the C57BL/6J mouse strain fed a WD-like diet, using high-frequency ultrasound imaging (HFUS) as a complementary tool to longitudinally monitor morphofunctional changes in the liver, heart and kidney associated with DIO. Long term WD feeding increased mice body weight (BW), liver/BW ratio and body condition score (BCS), serum transaminases, glucose and insulin, as well as Homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) indexes, and caused dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. According to the 3Rs, ultrasound imaging has enabled a comprehensive study of metabolic syndrome in mice, in vivo and non-invasive, improving the identification of early stages of diseases.
Aberrantly Expressed tRNA-Val Fragments Can Distinguish Canine Hepatocellular Carcinoma from Canine Hepatocellular Adenoma
Authors: Hashimoto Saki , Hasan MD Nazmul , Arif Mohammad , Nozaki Nobuhiro , Husna Al Asmaul , Furusawa Yu , Sogawa Takeshi , Takahashi Kaori , Kuramoto Tomohide , Noguchi Aki , Takahashi Masashi , Yamato Osamu , Rahman Md Mahfuzur , Miura Naoki
Published: July 2024

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be difficult to differentiate but must be diagnosed correctly as treatment and prognosis for these tumors differ markedly. Relevant diagnostic biomarkers are thus needed, and those identified in dogs may have utility in human medicine because of the similarities between human and canine HCA and HCC. A tRNA-derived fragment (tRF), tRNA-Val, is a promising potential biomarker for canine mammary gland tumors but has not previously been investigated in hepatic tumors. Accordingly, we aimed to elucidate the potential utility of tRNA-Val as a biomarker for canine HCA and HCC using clinical samples (tumor tissue and plasma extracellular vesicles [EVs]) and tumor cell lines with qRT-PCR assays. We also investigated relevant functions and signaling pathways with bioinformatic analyses (Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes). tRNA-Val was markedly downregulated in HCC tumor tissue versus HCA tumor tissue and normal liver tissue, and a similar trend was shown in plasma EVs and HCC cell lines versus healthy controls. Based on areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs), tRNA-Val significantly distinguished HCC (AUC=1.00, P=0.001) from healthy controls in plasma EVs and HCC from HCA (AUC=0.950, P=0.01). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that tRNA-Val may be primarily involved in DNA repair, mRNA processing, and splicing and may be linked to the N-glycan and ubiquitin-mediated proteasome pathways. This is the first report on the expression of tRNA-Val in canine HCC and HCA, and its possible functions and signaling pathways. We suggest that tRNA-Val could be a promising novel biomarker to distinguish canine HCC from HCA. This study provides evidence for a greater understanding of the role played by tRNA-Val in the development of canine HCC.
Potential Performance of Two New RT-PCR and RT-q PCR Methods for Multiplex Detection of Dengue Virus Serotypes 1-4 and Chikungunya Virus in Mosquitoes Allowing Efficient Entomological Surveillance of Both Vector-Borne Diseases
Authors: Gomgnimbou Michel Kiréopori , BELEM Louis robert wendyam , Bilgo Etienne , Amara Miriam Félicité , Laouali Zouera , Ouari Ali , Bayala Toussaint , Gnada Kobo , Yao Raymond Kharlis , Namountougou Moussa , Sangaré Ibrahim
Published: July 2024

Mosquitoes genus Aedes are the most important arthropod disease vector. Dengue Virus (DENV) and Chikungunya Virus (CHIKV) are the main arboviruses distributed in the world. Based on entomo-virological surveillance, appropriating public health strategies can be addressed to contain cases and control outbreaks. This study aims to show the potential performance of two new molecular methods for detecting DENV serotypes and CHIKV in mosquitoes. Mosquitoes were collected in urban areas and sylvatic areas between July to August 2023, DENV and CHIKV were screened using new multiplex RT-PCR and RT-q PCR. A total of 2150 mosquitoes were trapped including 976 Aedes (959 Ae. egypti, 6 Ae. furcifer and 11 Ae. Vittatus) and 1174 Culex from 39 pools of a maximum of 30 mosquitoes each, tested by molecular screening, 7.7% (3/39) were positive for DENV, DENV-1 was detected in one pool (1/3), and DENV-3 in two pools (2/3). All the pools were negative for CHIKV. The overall minimum infection rate (MIR) of DENV in this study was 3.07 (95% CI: 2.24 —19.86). This study shows the usefulness of our new molecular tools in DENV serotypes and CHIKV surveillance.
A Survey of Utilization and Satisfaction of Korean Subfertility Treatment among Korean Women
Authors: Park Minjung , Shin Seungwon , Kim Jihye , Kim Jong-hyun , Sung Soo-Hyun , Park Jang-Kyung
Published: July 2024

Low fertility is a critical social problem worldwide, and infertility has a prevalence of 15%. This cross-sectional study aimed to understand the factors affecting the usage and satisfaction of Korean medicine (KM) in subfertile women. An online survey was conducted from November 3 to November 8, 2021. The survey collected basic information, KM treatment experience, and satisfaction from women who experienced poor pregnancy. The t-test and chi-square test (χ2-test) were used to determine the overall characteristics of the subjects and factors affecting the utilization and satisfaction of KM treatment. Of the total of 29,465 people, 4,922 read the survey email, and 601 responded. After excluding 51 insincere respondents, 550 respondents were included in the final analysis. Of these, 43.1% had experience with conventional treatment, and 15.6% had received KM treatment. Integrative subfertility treatment was significantly more common (24.9%) than KM treatment alone (10.2%) (P=0.00). Women with no childbirth experience (P=0.01) and those with a master’s degree (P=0.01) were more willing to participate in the ‘KM Support Project for Subfertility’. Our findings suggest that subfertile patients prefer integrated medical treatment over KM alone. Further studies are needed to assess the status of integrative medicine treatment, satisfaction with each KM intervention, factors for low satisfaction, and patient requirements.
Blocking Thromboxane--Prostanoid Receptor Signaling Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide and Stearic Acid-Induced Inflammatory Response in Human PBMCs
Authors: Rajamanickam Vinothkumar , Desouza Cyrus V , Castillo Romilia , Viswanathan Saraswathi
Published: July 2024

Inflammation is implicated in the etiology of obesity-related diseases. Thromboxane-prostanoid receptor (TPR) is known to play a role in mediating an inflammatory response in a variety of cells. Gut-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a TLR4 agonist, is elevated in obesity. Moreover, free fatty acids (FFAs) are important mediators of obesity-related inflammation. However, the role and mechanisms by which TPR regulates the inflammatory response in human immune cells remain unclear. We sought to determine the link between TPR and obesity and the role/mechanisms by which TPR alters LPS or stearic acid (SA)-induced inflammatory response in PBMCs. Cells were pre-treated with agents blocking TPR signaling, followed by treatment with LPS or stearic acid (SA). Our findings showed that TPR mRNA levels are higher in PBMCs from individuals with obesity. Blockade of TPR as well as ROCK which acts downstream of TPR, attenuated LPS and/or SA-induced pro-inflammatory response. On the other hand, TPR activation using its agonist enhanced the pro-inflammatory effects of LPS and/or SA. Of note, TPR agonist by itself elicits an inflammatory response which was attenuated by blocking TPR or ROCK. Our data suggest that TPR plays a key role in promoting an inflammatory response in human PBMCs and this effect is mediated via TLR4 and/or ROCK signaling.
Catalytic Pyrolysis of Low-Density Polyethylene Waste
Authors: Calinescu Ioan , Psenovschi Grigore , Cojocaru Mihaela , Chisega-Negrila Ciprian Gabriel , Albulescu Carmen , Brebu Mihai Adrian , Trifan Adrian , Ignat Nicoleta Daniela , Chipurici Petre
Published: July 2024

Plastics, once regarded as a revolutionary material shaping modern society, now poses an unprecedented threat to our environment. Household solid waste sorting stations produce several fractions, one of which contains a high concentration of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) film waste (packaging, sunscreen film, etc.). This fraction is difficult to recycle because it contains quite a lot of impurities. Usually, it is sent to the cement factories that burn it together with other fuels. However, with some processing techniques such catalytic pyrolysis this fraction could be valorized. In this paper the experiments which were carried out at a laboratory scale installation, in batches with a processing capacity of 1-3 kg of waste. The pyrolysis reactor is connected to a distillation column giving the possibility to separate the fractions. The gaseous and liquid fractions were characterized by GC-FID-TCD (gases) and GC-MS (liquids) analysis. Natural catalysts such as bentonite or clinoptilolite were studied and used in the melting of plastic mass to simplify the process as much as possible. To test the activity of the catalysts, the pyrolysis of LDPE granules was initially studied. It was found that natural zeolites are much more active than bentonite and that a minimum concentration of 5-10% is needed to have a positive effect on the composition of the fractions (increasing the weight of the light fractions C1-C6, C6-C10 and C11-C13) in relation to the heavy fractions C13-C20 and C20+. Catalytic pyrolysis gives a completely different distribution of light hydrocarbons. The best catalyst selected from LDPE lab experiments, was then tested upon the pyrolysis of plastic film waste obtained by a waste treatment plant. The research objective reported in this paper was to obtain a fraction of combustible gases in the largest possible proportion, which can be much easier exploited by burning in an engine that drives an electric generator.
The Cycle 46 Configuration of the HARMONIE-AROME Forecast Model
Authors: Gleeson Emily , Kurzeneva Ekaterina , de Rooy Wim , Rontu Laura , Pérez Daniel Martín , Clancy Colm , Ivarsson Karl-Ivar , Engdahl Bjørg Jenny , Tijm Sander , Nielsen Kristian Pagh , Shapkalijevski Metodija , Maalampi Panu , Ukkonen Peter , Batrak Yurii , Kähnert Marvin , Kettler Tosca , van den Brekel Sophie Marie , Adriaens Michael , Theeeuwes Natalie , Pálmason Bolli , Rieutord Thomas , Fannon James , Whelan Eoin , Viana Samuel , Homleid Mariken , Bessardon Geoffrey , Onvlee Jeanette , Samuelsson Patrick , Munos Daniel Santos , Vignes Ole Nikolai
Published: July 2024

The aim of this technical note is to describe the Cycle 46 reference configuration of the HARMONIE-AROME convection-permitting numerical weather prediction (NWP) model. HARMONIE-AROME is a configuration of the shared ALADIN-HIRLAM system, which is developed, maintained, and validated in the ACCORD consortium, a collaboration of 26 countries in Europe and northern Africa on short-range mesoscale NWP. This technical note describes updates to the physical parametrizations, both upper-air and surface, configuration choices such as lateral boundary conditions, model levels, horizontal resolution, model time step and databases associated with the model, such as for physiography and aerosols. An outlook on upcoming developments is also included.
Effect of obesity on the aquaporin5 expression in the human placental and uterus tissues
Authors: Kemény Kata Kira , Kozinszky Zoltan , Altorjay Ábel T. , Kolcsár Bálint , Suranyi Andrea , Ducza Eszter
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Obesity and overweight also increasingly affect women of childbearing age and pregnant women. In maternal obesity, the activation of metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress pathways is proven, which appears to be a key step in placental and uterus function pathological changes. Several recent studies have evidenced that aquaporins (AQPs) are critical players in adipose tissue biology and are involved in the onset of obesity. Our studies aimed to investigate the changes in placental volume and vascularization and measure the AQP5 expression and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the placenta and uterus tissues in obese and normal-weight mothers. We also aim to measure the AQP5 plasma concentration. We found AQP5 dominance in the uterus and plasma at 34 weeks of normal pregnancy. The placental volume increased, and the vascularization decreased in obese mothers compared to the control. The AQP5 expression increased in the uterus of the obese group and did not change in the placenta. The TAC decreased in the plasma of overweight mothers. We hypothesize that increased AQP5 expression prolongs the length of pregnancy and inhibits the onset of contractions. Based on our findings, we can develop diagnostic tests and provide new targets for tocolytic drug development.
Identification of Anticancer and Antioxidant Potentials of Katang-Katang Flower Extract (Ipomea pes-caprae Linn) with Water Solvent
Authors: Tamuddin Yusriadi , Utami Hermin  Hardyanti , Husna Saadatul , Lestari Mega  Fia , Salawali Rismul Trianto , Towolioe Sherly , Aras Neny  Rasnyanti  M , Trifany Andi  Wahyu , Papriani Nada Pertiwi
Published: July 2024

Cancer is a group of deadly diseases that attack human organs with an increasing number of cases and an increasing number of deaths from year to year. Free radicals as unstable molecules are one of the triggers for the emergence of cancer. Katang-katang or I. pes-caprae L. is a plant that could be found on almost all tropical coasts. So it has the potential to be developed as herbal medicine. This study used Flowers of I. pes-caprae L. as the research sample. This study aimed to identify the anticancer and antioxidant potential of the flower extract of I. pes-caprae L extracted with water as a solvent. This research included the phytochemical test of secondary metabolites, identification of anticancer potential based on the toxicity test using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT), and the antioxidant activity test using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The results showed that the flower extract of I. pes-caprae L. from water solvent contained active compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids. The extract also has the potential as an anticancer with an LC50 value of 170.8441 ppm and strong antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 71.7895 ppm.
Bioavailability of Heavy Metals Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) In Agricultural Soils In The Tabanan Region and Their Accumulation In Gonda Plants (Sphenoclea zeylanica Gaertn)
Authors: Lisdiantari Ni Luh Gede , Suprihatin Iryanti Eka , Sahara Emmy
Published: July 2024

Farmers use organic and inorganic fertilizers and pesticides in order to maintain the quality of their crops. Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides in long term can cause soil contamination. This research is about determining the level of bioavailability of Cd and Pb metals in gonda plants (Sphenoclea zeylanica Gaertn) and the amount dissolved in the soil. The stepwise extraction method is used to determine dissolved metal species and quantitationally determined using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The content of Cd and Pb metals in the gonda plants obtained was 4.3328 and 1.4788 mg⁄kg. The bioavailable Cd and Pb in soil are 13.76% - 21.51% and 10.19 - 11.54%, respectively, the potentially bioavailable ones are 53.91 - 57.84% and 79.97 - 80.00. % and non-bioavailable metals, namely 24.58 - 28.39 and 8.46 - 9.84%. Based on SNI 7387:2009 regulations regarding the Maximum Limit for Heavy Metal Contamination in Food, the Cd and Pb metal contamination in gonda plants on the agricultural land in the observed area has exceeded the threshold of 0.2 mg⁄kg on Cd and 0.5 mg⁄kg  on Pb.
STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE PREDICTION FRAMEWORK WITH FEATURE SELECTION AND IMBALANCED DATA HANDLING
Authors: Wijayaningrum Vivi Nur , Kirana Annisa Puspa , Putri Ika Kusumaning
Published: July 2024

Various factors cause the low scores of students in practicum courses. If these factors cannot be identified, more and more students will drop out of the study due to low scores, especially Vocational College students who do not have the opportunity to improve their scores in the short semester. Students with the potential to drop out must be identified as soon as possible because the number of dropouts can have an impact on a university's accreditation value. In this study, the prediction of student academic performance was carried out using a framework consisting of imbalanced data handling using SMOTE and feature selection using Random Forest, as well as the application of Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) for the formation of a classification model. The MLP architecture consists of some neurons in the input layer, two hidden layers with five neurons each, and two neurons in the output layer. SMOTE succeeded in selecting ten significant parameters from 22 initial parameters, which produced the most accurate predictions. According to the test results, the proposed framework offers the best accuracy of 0.8889 and an F1-Score of 0.9032. These results prove that the proposed framework can be used as an alternative for the Department to take action to prevent students from dropping out.
Insight into the Evolution of the Eastern Margin of the Wyoming Craton from Complex, Laterally Variable Shear Wave Splitting
Authors: Birkey Andrew , Ford Heather A. , Anderson Megan , Byrnes Joseph S. , Bezada Maximiliano J. , Shapovalov Maxim
Published: July 2024

Dense seismic arrays such as EarthScope’s Transportable Array (TA) have enabled high-resolution seismic observations that show the structure of cratonic lithosphere is more heterogeneous and complex than previously assumed. In this study, we pair TA data with data from the Bighorn Arch Seismic Experiment and the Crust and lithosphere Investigation of the Easternmost expression of the Laramide Orogeny (CIELO) to provide unprecedented detail on the seismic anisotropic structure of the eastern margin of the Wyoming Craton, where several orogens emerged from nominally strong cratonic lithosphere during the Laramide Orogeny. In this study, we use the splitting of teleseismic shear waves to characterize fabrics associated with deformation in the Earth’s crust and mantle. We constrain distinct anisotropic domains in the study area, and forward modeling shows that each of these domains can be explained by a single layer of anisotropy. Most significantly, we find a fast direction in the southern part of the Powder River Basin, which we refer to as the Thunder Basin Block (TBB), that deviates from absolute plate motion (APM). This change in splitting behavior coincides with changes in other modeled geophysical observations, such as active source P-wave velocity models, potential field modeling, and seismic attenuation analysis, which all show a significant change moving from the Bighorn Mountains to the TBB. We argue that these results correspond to structure predating the Laramide Orogeny, and most likely indicate a Neoarchean boundary preserved within the lithosphere.
Formal Scrupulosity: The Character of Job in Kant’s Moral Religion
Authors: Sudakov Andrey K. ,   RAS Institute of Philosophy
Published: July 2024

In his minor late treatise on theodicy Kant delivers a full-scale evaluation of Job, the just man from the Old Covenant, of his peculiar theodicy an his moral disposition, in contrast to that of his friends and comforters. The paper aims to examine the ethical content of Kant’s judgements about Job, to authenticate these judgements with the text of the Bible, and to de­termine the reasons and conceptual outcome of the German philosopher’s reflection upon the character of Job. The investigation focuses on the Kantian opposition between the duty of material truthfulness as objective veracity, and the duty of formal truthfulness or honesty to oneself, as strict conscientiousness of one’s belief. In Kant’s ethics the latter duty consti­tutes the ground for the former, as well as for external contractual obligations. In matters of religion and morality, where, according to Kant, no objectively valid knowledge but merely a moral faith is possible for humans, the formal conscientiousness of the self-con­science has quite particular importance. By contrast, a lack of this formal frankness of be­lief, a reluctance to verify the contents of one’s own moral convictions is a violation of the supreme ethical imperative, equivalent to the denial of one’s own moral personality; therefore a person committing an internal lie is already a “deceitful semblance of a man”. A lack of internal truthfulness makes further dissimulation in moral convictions and feigned beliefs possible. Job’s friends are for Kant a brilliant example of such dissimula­tion, combined with illegitimate claims of theoretical reason. Human nature, being habitu­ally disposed for deviations from the requirements of the law, willingly follows this way. Therefore a reflection upon the character of Job, as a pure example of formal conscien­tiousness in moral dispositions, gives Kant an opportunity for ethical implications concern­ing the routine of oath in court sessions, its sense and the limits of its application. Interest­ingly, Kant’s opinion on this point coincides at length with the view of the Russian philoso­pher I.V. Kireevsky.
Albrecht Dihle: Historical and Normative Reconstruction of the Golden Rule
Authors: Apressyan Ruben G. ,   RAS Institute of Philosophy
Published: July 2024

The article provides a critical analysis of the book The Golden Rule (1962) by the prominent German classical philologist Albrecht Dihle. The book, outstanding for its time, still retains its value due to the huge material from ancient literary sources, concerning the principle of retribution and the Golden Rule, as well as the commandment of love. In its entirety, this material, carefully analyzed by Dihle, allows us to take a fresh look at some aspects of the genesis of morality and the role of the principle of retribution in its evolution. Note­worthy is Dihle’s reference to the role of sophists and their philosophy of education in the formation of the Golden Rule, as well as his view of historically early examples of the Golden Rule formula. Dihle’s assessment of the Golden Rule as a peculiar, refined expres­sion of the principle of retribution, its defining role in the formation of the value standard as­sumed by the Golden Rule, led Dihle to conclude (contrary to traditional interpretation) that the Golden Rule was weakly associated with the commandment of love and, accordingly, its importance for Christian ethics was not so high. Based on the analysis of the views and the nature of the arguments presented in the book, the article concludes that Dihle had an in­sufficiently developed theoretical understanding of the Golden Rule, which did not take into account in its entirety the originality of the Golden Rule’s normative content and functional features, as well as its role in the formation of a moral (in the proper sense of the word) view of the world.
Comparative Laboratory Wettability Study of Sandstone, Tuff, and Shale Using 12-MHz NMR T1-T2 Fluid Typing: Insight of Shale
Authors: Wang Shuoshi , Gu Zheng , Guo Ping , Zhao Wenhua
Published: July 2024

Wettability is a fundamental parameter significantly influencing fluid distributions, saturations, and relative permeability in porous media. Despite the availability of several wettability measurement techniques, obtaining consistent wettability index results, particularly in tight reservoirs, remains a challenge. Nevertheless, obtaining accurate wettability indices is crucial for gaining a more profound understanding of rock properties and precisely identifying and evaluating oil recovery processes. This study adapts T1-T2 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) in twin plugs (cores cut in half from the middle) style wettability measurement for different reservoirs. The fluid typing in different lithologies by T1-T2 NMR is proved to be effective by introducing D2O with a modified pressurization saturation process. Therefore, demarcating the regions requires multiple experiments, including sole brine, sole oil phase, and D2O imbibition processes, to define oil and water distribution regions. Such fluid typing ability enables better accuracy in wettability characterization. The weighing method shows good agreement with the T2 spectrum but lacks the ability to differentiate fluids. It is observed that the same fluid in various porous media displays different divisions of T1/T2 ratios. The wettability index of sandstone, tuff, and shale measured by weighing and T1-T2 NMR method are compared and studied to demonstrate the applicability of different methods. The weighing method and the NMR method, as modified-Amott methods, share the same fundamental principle but differ in their measurement techniques. This study’s T1-T2 NMR wettability indices are −0.52, 0.06, and 0.14, whereas the weighing wettability indices are −0.63, 0.07, and 0.34 of sandstone, tuff, and shale, respectively. In addition to the difference in shale wettability index, there are also differences in shale porosity measured by methods with/without the ability to differentiate the fluid types. The T1-T2 NMR method is more accurate in measuring the wettability of shale because it can distinguish among free water in pores, structural water, and clay-bound water in smectitic clay minerals. If the clay-related water is not treated properly, the hydrophilicity of the shale will be overestimated. Ultimately, four types of pores (water-wet, oil-wet, mixed-wet, and unconnected pores) are classified and quantified by the proposed NMR method.
Anthropometric Indicators Are Associated With Cardiovascular Risk Measured by Framingham Risk Score in Men Living With Hiv, but Not in Women.
Authors: Pessoa Marcilene Glay , Melo Luciana , Moura Fabiana , Silva Diego , Lima Luiz Rodrigo
Published: July 2024

Introduction: People living with HIV (PLHIV) present metabolic and morphological changes that increase cardiovascular risk due to infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Early detection of cardiovascular risk using anthropometric indicators is crucial, given the low cost and feasibility of this technique.
Objective: To analyze the association between anthropometric indicators and cardiovascular risk in PLHIV.
Methods: Cross-sectional study with cis-gender PLHIV, ≥18 years old of both sexes. Sociodemographic, clinical, personal information and anthropometric measurements (body mass, height and neck, waist and hip circumferences) were collected and 11 anthropometric indicators were calculated. Cardiovascular risk was determined by the Framingham risk score. Multivariable regression analyses adjusted for confounding factors and stratified by sex were conducted using STATA® v. 13.0, p<0.05.
Results: 354 PLHIV participated, 41.2% (n=146) female, with a mean age of 42.7 ± 13.0 years. Among the participants, 70.1% (n=248), 16.7% (n=59) and 13.3% (n=47) have low, moderate, and high cardiovascular risk, respectively. Among the indicators analyzed, conicity index (CI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body shape index (BSI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and body roundness index (BRI) present significant association with cardiovascular risk, only in men (β*=0.4985; β*=0.4861; β*=0.4645; β*=0.4320; β*=0.4204 [β*=standardized betas]), adjusted for education, level of physical activity, T-CD4+ lymphocytes, income and ART. The analyzes did not demonstrate significant associations ​​for women.
Conclusion: The anthropometric indicators, notedly CI and WHR, are associated with cardiovascular risk independent of clinical factors in men living with HIV.
Socioeconomic importance of the semi-feral goat population for smallholders on the island of Socotra
Authors: Maděrová Lucie , Šipoš Jan , Maděra Petr , Suchomel Josef
Published: July 2024

This research paper examined the socioeconomic importance of goat farming on the island of Socotra, which to thebest of the authors’ knowledge. The study comprised 154 participants from various terrains. The data was collected usinga well-structured questionnaire and statistically analysed through the Bayesian approach and Kruskal--Wallis test tooﬀer robust insights into the subject matter. Data on the importance of goat meaning, herd composition, reproduction,milk production, supplementary feeding and watering, goat slaughter and non-slaughter mortality was collected.This study identiﬁed that goats are mainly kept for livelihood purposes (60%), while their social signiﬁcance is notable aswell, with 18% of respondents citing this as a reason for raising the animals. In terms of herd composition, each family keeps an average of 107goats, of which 59% are does, 32% are infants under six months, and 9% are bucks. Reproduction patternsindicate that the goats breed twice a year, primarily in May and October. As for milk production, goats on Socotra produce an average of 368 ml/day on an annual basis, and the highest production is observed in the mountains. The study also found that the goats are primarily slaughtered for social reasons (55%). According to respondents, the main cause of mortality in goats was disease (40%). The results of this study have far-reaching implications for understanding the management of goat farming on the island and conserving the island’s biodiversity.