bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of water quality in the piped water supply system by using Water Quality index method
Authors: Samal Kshyana Prava , Tarai Ashok Kumar
Published: October 2024

Background Drinking water of the right and approved quality is a basic requirement for the development of any civilization. According to SDG 6 it is crucial to provide every citizen with equitable water quality and quantity. Methods The study area is the smart city of Bhubaneswar with 67 wards and three zones: the north zone, south-west zone, and south-east zone with around 12.4 lakh population. To maintain the water quality in the supply pipeline in this city, which is always assumed to be safe, it needs to be examined within certain time intervals to check the contamination. In this context, studies on water quality parameters in the supply pipeline network from different anticipated vulnerable areas have been collected for testing. In this context, water samples were collected from areas near industries, market complexes, educational institutions, and construction sites of each ward of Bhubaneswar. Nearly 10 water quality parameters were tested and analyzed using the weighted arithmetic water quality index method. This method takes input of all the parameters and provides the overall water quality index value, which classifies the water in different grades like excellent, good, poor, and very poor quality. Results According to the WHO (2011) guidelines, the study found that there is a deviation in the parameters like 10.78% in pH, 19.48% in dissolved oxygen, 43.88% in conductivity, and 22.95% in hardness from the standard limit, but the overall water quality index indicates the water is not in the poor and very poor range. Also, water quality index values identify that the water in the south-east zone is excellent compared to the north and south-west zones. The reason for the slight deterioration is due to the underground cable works, road works and also some areas where the old pipeline system is still existing due to personal encroachment of people as per Public health Engineering department.
Case Report: Acute Abdomen Due to Ruptured Ovarian Ectopic Pregnancy at 8 Weeks
Authors: Imen Ben Farhat , Guezguez Amani , Kaabi Manel , Dhouibi Mariem , Aidi Hadhemi , Chihaoui Rania , El Bassi Syrine , Sallami Arrige , Nasri Onsi , Knaz Samar , Ben Jaballah Soukaina , Mkhinini Ines , marouen Nadia , Fatnassi Ridha
Published: October 2024

Background Ovarian pregnancy is a rare type of ectopic pregnancy, accounting for 0.5% to 1% of all ectopic pregnancies, with an incidence ranging from 1 in 2,100 to 1 in 60,000 pregnancies. Due to its rarity and the lack of common risk factors, diagnosing ovarian pregnancy is often challenging and typically occurs during surgical exploration. Case Presentation We present the case of a 40-year-old woman who experienced severe pelvic pain, light vaginal bleeding, and 8 weeks of amenorrhea. Upon arrival at the hospital, she was hemodynamically unstable, with low blood pressure and a rapid heart rate. An ultrasound revealed an empty uterus, an irregular mass on her right ovary, and free fluid in the pelvis. Her beta-hCG level was elevated, and her hemoglobin level was low. Given the suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy, she underwent emergency surgery. During the operation, the surgical team discovered a large amount of clotted blood and a ruptured mass on her left ovary measuring 10 x 9.5 cm. Due to heavy bleeding, they performed a left oophorectomy and salpingectomy. Histopathological analysis later confirmed the diagnosis of ovarian pregnancy. Conclusion This case underscores the challenges in diagnosing ovarian pregnancy and highlights the necessity for prompt surgical intervention, particularly in unstable patients. Early detection and appropriate management are critical to prevent life-threatening complications.
Energy Transition in Northern Netherlands: seeking a balance between top-down and bottom-up initiatives
Authors: Oldenbroek Bas , Psarra Ifigenia , van der Schoor Tineke , Tjahja Cyril
Published: October 2024

This brief report focuses on top-down and bottom-up processes within the field of energy transition. It aims at gaining a better understanding of the needs of the local energy initiatives. On this basis, policy recommendations are formulated to help the municipality of Groningen to facilitate local energy initiatives, ultimately leading to a more balanced approach of the local energy transition. Thus, this study explored the (mutual) interests, barriers and expectations of the municipality and local citizen initiatives. The theoretical framework is the implementation analysis framework, distinguishing top-down and bottom-up approaches. Specifically, this qualitative (thematic analysis) research study investigates the mismatch in expectations between a number of local energy initiatives and the municipality of Groningen regarding their roles within the local energy transition context. To this end, semi-structured interviews have been conducted with members of the municipality of Groningen, Grunneger Power (a local energy intermediary), and four local energy initiatives. Need and expectation gaps have been identified and potential solutions have been explored. The main findings of the study illustrate the need of professional support for citizen initiatives, at both technical and organizational level, especially in the first phases of their development. Additionally, clear mutual communication on short and long-term planning and ambitions of the involved parties is of key importance for the alignment of the interests and the course of actions. Consequently, a clear context is needed, within which an exchange of feedback on the envisioned strategies, and the subsequent energy saving or generation interventions, can take place in an efficient and effective way. Additionally, such a context increases confidence and provides a clear understanding to the citizen initiatives regarding their role and the level and nature of support they can expect in their intended projects and activities. Based on these findings, policy implications have been drawn.
The genome sequence of the Common Lutestring moth, Ochropacha duplaris Linnaeus, 1761
Authors: Prescott Tom , Hill David , Bence Stuart ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Ochropacha duplaris (the Common Lutestring; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Drepanidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 354.70 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.22 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 17,322 protein-coding genes.
Insights from Saint Teresa and Saint Augustine on Artificial Intelligence: Discussing Human Interiority
Authors: Lumbreras Sara , Garrido-Merchán Eduardo
Published: October 2024

This article addresses the issue of attributing phenomenal consciousness to Artificial Intelligence (AI), a mistake that can lead to ethically dangerous consequences and that is becoming widespread due to the advances of Large Language Models such as ChatGPT. We juxtapose advancements in AI with the notion of inner experience as it is present in humans. The study draws from various disciplines, including philosophy of mind, artificial intelligence, and theological texts such as "The Inner Castle" by Saint Theresa of Ávila and "Confessions" by Saint Augustine. Firstly, it reviews the current state of the relationship between phenomenal consciousness and AI, followed by a critique of the idea that advanced language models, like ChatGPT, can achieve an inner experience in the same sense we use the term to describe the human inner experience. A common objection is raised, suggesting that AI can become conscious by increasing its complexity. This is countered by presenting theoretical and empirical evidence on the independence of computational intelligence and phenomenal consciousness. The study concludes that, despite AI's notable cognitive abilities, it lacks the inner experience that characterizes human experience. Then, our second main contribution is an analogy of the dwellings of the Inner Castle to the range of different subjective experiences that are available to human beings, together with actions associated to them, which can be useful to understand where the machine can perform tasks that are similar to the human and where subjective experience is key. We are now in a pivotal moment where it is essential to understand the limitations of AI for deploying it ethically.
Corporalidad, tecnología y deseo de salvación: un comentario desde la perspectiva de la discapacidad
Authors: Santamaría Egurrola Francisco
Published: October 2024

En los estudios sobre la discapacidad, surgió en su momento el malestar ante la escasa consideración que la condición corpórea estaba recibiendo en el llamado “modelo social de la discapacidad”. El estudio recientemente publicado por Jorge Martín Montoya Camacho y José Manuel Giménez Amaya bajo el título “Corporalidad, tecnología y deseo de salvación. Apuntes para una antropología de la vulnerabilidad” ofrece un interesante marco para los estudios sobre discapacidad, al permitir comprenderla dentro de una amplia propuesta de antropología filosófica. En efecto, el estudio que comentamos, sirviéndose de la filosofía aristotélica, articula adecuadamente nuestras dimensiones corporal y social con los fines de la vida humana
Muzyka: definicja – harmonia – bytowanie – transcendencja
Authors: Lipka Krzysztof
Published: October 2024

The article discusses selected issues from the philosophy of music that Mirosław Żelazny addressed in his works. These problems, discussed many times by outstanding music theorists and philosophers, will always raise a number of doubts. An example of this statement is the definition of music, which has been formulated many times in subsequent centuries, and yet, each of them still raises many doubts. Harmony, which can be understood in two ways in music, will also always provoke questions about the relationship between the science of combining chords and the harmonious character of the entire work. The numerous doubts concerning the ontological status of a musical work are another unresolved, or perhaps insoluble, issue. And finally, there remains the problem of understanding music as a transcendent entity, especially considering its profound content. All the problems mentioned above receive many new possibilities of understanding thanks to the remarks that can be found in the works of Mirosław Żelazny.
Analysis of intrarater and interrater reliability of the interactive line protocol for evaluating neuromuscular function in patients with knee injury and observation of psychological state changes
Authors: Jo Sang-Geun , Yoo Dong-Hyun , Jee Yong-Seok
Published: October 2024

The isokinetic interactive line protocol (ILP) appears to enhance neuromuscular function and may reduce posttraumatic stress and anxiety. However, the reliability of the protocol has not been investigated, nor has it been analyzed in relation to psychological states. A total of 165 participants took part in this study, with ages ranging from 21 to 24 years. The gender distribution was 68.4% male and 31.6% female. There was no significant difference in injury duration between males and females (z= -0.922, P= 0.357). The intrarater reliability of the ILP, as indicated by the intraclass correlation coefficient, was high for both concentric and eccentric contractions of the quadriceps (ranging from 0.891 to 0.980). Likewise, the interrater reliability for these contractions was also high (range, 0.873–0.943). Additionally, during the ILP, there was a significant reduction in posttraumatic stress (t= 9.795, P< 0.001) and anxiety (t= 5.965, P< 0.001) related to knee reinjury after 2 weeks. Ultimately, the isokinetic game ILP demonstrates high intra- and interrater reliabilities and can be concluded to effectively reduce posttraumatic stress and anxiety when incorporated into retesting.
Wind-Solar-Thermal Power Coupling System in The Power Market Environment Benefit Distribution Studies
Authors: Yin Limin , Niu Xishun , Gu Yi , Zhou Guiping , Bian Guoliang
Published: October 2024

With the continuous increase in the proportion of new energy, China’s power system will further increase the capacity and flexibility of new energy consumption capacity and flexibility in the future. The combined operation of renewable energy and thermal power can improve the utilization rate of renewable energy and the economy of thermal power operation to a certain extent, and is one of the effective ways to solve the problem of curtailment of wind and solar power. Based on the combing of the market mode of wind-solar-thermal coupling system, this paper discusses the game relationship between wind power, photovoltaic power and thermal power, and proposes the operation strategy of wind-solar-thermal power coupling system under the spot market; Then, with the goal of maximizing economic benefits, a two-stage stochastic optimization model was constructed in the coupled operation mode and the independent operation mode, respectively, and the contribution of the alliance members in the day-ahead market, flexibility contribution and environmental cost contribution was weighed, and the revenue distribution method between renewable energy and thermal power was proposed by introducing the market contribution index; Finally, based on the simulation and verification of a local power grid in Liaoning Province, the results show that the proposed joint operation strategy effectively improves the overall revenue level, and proposes a gain cooperative revenue distribution strategy with computational efficiency, which fully considers the contribution of each entity to the alliance for fair distribution, and is conducive to guiding the coordinated development of new energy and thermal power.
Prediction of Power Equipment Emergency Repair Based on Adaptive Neural Network Fuzzy Inference Method
Authors: Zhang Tongtong , Wang Ya’nan , Pang Yuhang , Jin Yating , Wu Jian , Li Junyi
Published: October 2024

If the emergency repair prediction of power equipment is only made from the perspective of historical spare parts inventory data, it cannot reflect the impact of disaster-causing elements and disaster evolution on the demand for emergency repair spare parts in the future. Therefore, this paper aims to propose a reliable power equipment emergency repair prediction method, and constructs a demand prediction method for emergency repair spare parts of power equipment based on scenario analysis. Constructing a power equipment repair system through intelligent reasoning methods to improve the efficiency of power equipment repair. This article comprehensively uses methods such as literature analysis, model inference, and case simulation verification, this paper innovatively combines the adaptive neural network fuzzy inference system with expert experience. This paper validates the superiority of the prediction method constructed in this paper through comparative analysis. The results show that with the increase of the amount of data, the prediction accuracy of the method proposed in this paper will be improved, which can provide a reference for the subsequent emergency repair prediction of power equipment.
Research on Intelligent Energy System and Power Metering Optimization Based on Multi-objective Optimization Decision Algorithm
Authors: Liyan Kang , Ying Shang , Muxin Zhang
Published: October 2024

In this paper, the intricate problem of optimizing power metering within an intelligent energy system, utilizing a multi-objective optimization decision-making algorithm, is thoroughly explored. Given the current energy landscape, achieving efficient energy utilization and environmental sustainability has become a focal point of research. As a pivotal aspect of future energy management, the precision and optimization of power metering in intelligent energy systems directly influence the effectiveness and cost of energy consumption. To begin, this paper delves into the fundamental principles and application backdrop of intelligent energy systems, highlighting the significance of power metering in such systems. Subsequently, addressing the multi-objective optimization challenges in power metering, a novel optimization method based on a multi-objective optimization decision algorithm is introduced. This algorithm achieves comprehensive optimization of power metering, encompassing multiple objectives such as power cost reduction, enhanced energy efficiency, and environmental protection. The experimental results underscore the remarkable performance of this algorithm, which not only elevates the precision of power metering but also achieves substantial savings in energy costs and significantly boosts energy efficiency. Furthermore, the algorithm exhibits robust adaptability, making it capable of addressing power metering optimization challenges across diverse scenarios. Finally, this paper discusses the practical application prospects of the optimization algorithm in intelligent energy systems, and points out the direction of future research. The research in this paper provides new ideas and methods for the optimization of power metering in intelligent energy systems, and has important theoretical and practical significance for promoting the intelligence and refinement of energy management.
A Predictive Approach for Lithium-Ion Battery SOH using LSTM Neural Networks Enhanced by Health Matrix Optimization
Authors: Peng Youyuan , Huang Feng , Xie Xin , Gui Guocai , Zhao Fei , Ou Yuliu , Xu Hai
Published: October 2024

The State of Health (SOH) is a critical performance metric that characterizes the condition of lithium-ion batteries, directly influencing their lifespan and operational efficiency. In order to enhance the accuracy of SOH predictions for batteries and reduce operational risks, a novel approach has been introduced. This method, based on Health Matrix Optimization for Long Short Term Memory (LSTM) neural networks, aims to optimize the prediction process. Initially, the Spearman correlation coefficient method is employed to analyze the correlation of battery state data. Through the use of a heatmap, data points with strong correlations to SOH are identified, leading to the creation of a health feature matrix. This matrix is then utilized to fine-tune the hyperparameters of the LSTM neural network, resulting in refined approximations. Subsequently, by employing this optimized LSTM neural network, accurate predictions of the SOH for lithium-ion batteries are made. The results demonstrate a notable improvement in prediction accuracy by 35.71% and a significant increase in prediction speed by 35.5% when compared to traditional methods. This innovative approach proves to be effective in enhancing battery performance and longevity.
A Short-term PV Power Prediction and Uncertainty Analysis Model Based on CEEMDAN and AHA-BP
Authors: Zeng Zhiyuan , Li Tianyou , Su Jun , Yang Yihan , Lin Yajun
Published: October 2024

The stochastic and intermittent nature of photovoltaic (PV) generation brings a series of scheduling problems to the power system. An effective prediction of PV power is essential to minimize the impact of uncertainty. Therefore, this paper presents an integrated prediction model with complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN), the artificial hummingbird algorithm (AHA), and the BP neural network (BPNN) for predicting power generation from PV power plants, and a methodology for uncertainty analysis by using the nonparametric kernel density estimation (NPKDE). First, one month of PV power is decomposed into an array of components using CEEMDAN. Then, the weights and thresholds of the BPNN are optimized by using AHA. These components are trained using the BPNN. Finally, the final prediction results are obtained by superimposing the components, and NPKDE is employed to compute the probability density and confidence interval of the prediction error. The proposed prediction method demonstrates superior predictive performance in comparison with other models. Also, the NPKDE approach better describes the accuracy of the probability density distribution.
Binocular camera calibration using a BP algorithm optimized by an improved subtraction-average-based optimizer
Authors: Hao Haixia , Liu Ji , Wu Jinhui , Chen Yabo , Chen Wei
Published: October 2024

The BP algorithm exhibits drawbacks such as reduced precision and extended iteration
duration during the process of calibrating a binocular
camera system. A technique employing an improved
subtraction-average-based optimizer to optimize the BP algorithm
(ISABO-BP) is introduced to address these limitations and complete the
calibration of the binocular camera. The pixel values of the corner in
2D space and the coordinate values in 3D space are used as the input
and output for the BP algorithm, respectively. First, the logistic
chaotic mapping is used to initialize the population to increase the
diversity of the initial population. The piecewise mapping is employed
to generate random values to replace the coefficient values in the
individual position update formula, making the population distribution
more uniform. The golden sine strategy is adopted to help particles
escape from local optima. The ISABO-BP algorithm is utilized to
perform the process of calibrating a binocular camera. Then, through
numerical experiments, the mean calibration precision for the BP
algorithm is 0.1501 and 0.0445 cm for the ISABO-BP algorithm.
The calibration precision has been enhanced by 70.4%. The iterative
steps of the BP algorithm are 353 epochs, while the ISABO-BP algorithm
are 76 epochs, and the iterative speed is increased by nearly four
times. It is evident that the ISABO-BP algorithm enhances the
calibration precision and expedites the convergence rate. Finally,
other intelligent algorithms to optimize the BP algorithm for
calibrating a binocular camera are compared, and the superiority of
this algorithm is also verified.
45 W kHz-linewidth single-frequency fiber laser at 1120 nm
Authors: Peng Yan , Zheng Junjie , Li Wei , Yang Huan , Liu Wei , Pan Zhiyong , Chen Zilun , Xiao Hu , Ma Pengfei , Wang Zefeng , Xu Shanhui
Published: October 2024

Single-frequency fiber lasers (SFFLs) at 1120 nm have been widely used in biochemical analysis applications by generating 560 nm lasers. Here, we investigate the capacity of large-mode-area Yb-doped fiber for 1120 nm single-frequency laser amplification. By optimizing the length of large-mode-area Yb-doped fiber to balance the amplified spontaneous emission and stimulated Brillouin scattering effect, the output power of the 1120 nm SFFL could be enhanced to 45 W with a slope efficiency of 59.9%. At the maximum power level, the optical signal-to-noise ratio, the linewidth, and the beam quality of the output laser are 45 dB, 7.03 kHz, and M
x
2=1.52/M
y
2=1.49, respectively. Our study proves that using large-mode-area fiber in cooperation with a gain coefficient and fiber length optimization is promising to improve the output power of 1120 nm SFFL. And the experimental results provide implications for the expansion of Yb-doped single-frequency lasers to the wavelength above 1100 nm.
Topology optimization of a superconducting photonic crystal power beam splitter
Authors: Lu Shuzhen , Liu Gang , Gao Yongpan , Wang Fei , Jia Baonan , Guan Xiaoning , Han Lihong , Lu Pengfei
Published: October 2024

The design of photonic crystals using novel materials holds significant importance in
constructing high-performance, next-generation photonic crystal
devices. In this study, aiming at the requirements for enhanced
transmission and selectivity, we utilized a topology optimization
method based on the method of moving asymptotes (MMA) to realize a
high-temperature superconducting photonic crystal power splitter with
low transmission loss and selectivity effects, which allows for
flexible control and manipulation of optical signals. The method
addresses the shortcomings of traditional scanning techniques, such as
low efficiency and high resource consumption, by allowing for
multi-parameter optimization. This improvement enhances the precision
and effectiveness of the numerical computational iterative process.
The research offers insights into the design of novel optical
devices.
High-peak-power narrow-pulsed linearly polarized laser at ∼3 µm
Authors: Feng Xiaoyue , Xue Yanyan , Liu Jingjing , Tong Luyang , Hao Qianqian , Xu Xiaodong , Liu Jie , Xu Jun
Published: October 2024

A hundred-watt-level peak-power linearly polarized Ho,Pr:GdScO3 laser with narrow pulses was first realized at ∼3 µm through a combination of theoretical simulation and experiment. This is the narrowest pulse width, and the highest peak power has been achieved in a passively pulsed Ho,Pr co-doped laser to date. We realized a linearly polarized narrow-pulsed laser at ∼3 µm, with a maximum peak power of 185 W and shortest pulse width of 42 ns. A further theoretical model was built by simulating the dynamic process of the mid-infrared (MIR) pulsed Ho,Pr:GdScO3 laser using coupled rate equations. The numerical simulation results were fundamentally in agreement with the experimental results, which verified the potential of Ho,Pr:GdScO3 crystals to produce sub-50-ns hundred-watt peak power MIR lasers. The results presented an effective way to achieve high-peak-power, narrow-pulse, and linearly-polarized lasers, which have significant research potential and promising applications in the MIR band.
Structure of G protein-coupled receptor GPR1 bound to full-length chemerin adipokine reveals a chemokine-like reverse binding mode
Authors: Liu Aijun , Liu Yezhou , Chen Geng , Lyu Wenping , Ye Fang , Wang Junlin , Liao Qiwen , Zhu Lizhe , Du Yang , Ye Richard D.
Published: October 2024

Chemerin is an adipokine with chemotactic activity to a subset of leukocytes. Chemerin binds to 3 G protein-coupled receptors, including chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1), G protein-coupled receptor 1 (GPR1), and C-C chemokine receptor-like 2 (CCRL2). Here, we report that GPR1 is capable of Gi signaling when stimulated with full-length chemerin or its C-terminal nonapeptide (C9, YFPGQFAFS). We present high-resolution cryo-EM structures of Gi-coupled GPR1 bound to full-length chemerin and to the C9 peptide, respectively. C9 insertion into the transmembrane (TM) binding pocket is both necessary and sufficient for GPR1 signaling, whereas the full-length chemerin uses its bulky N-terminal core for interaction with a β-strand located at the N-terminus of GPR1. This interaction involves multiple β-strands of full-length chemerin, forming a β-sheet that serves as a “lid” for the TM binding pocket and is energetically expensive to remove as indicated by molecular dynamics simulations with free energy landscape analysis. Combining results from functional assays, our structural model explains why C9 is an activating peptide at GPR1 and how the full-length chemerin uses a “two-site” model for enhanced interaction with GPR1.
Object color knowledge representation occurs in the macaque brain despite the absence of a developed language system
Authors: Zhao Minghui , Xin Yumeng , Deng Haoyun , Zuo Zhentao , Wang Xiaoying , Bi Yanchao , Liu Ning
Published: October 2024

Animals guide their behaviors through internal representations of the world in the brain. We aimed to understand how the macaque brain stores such general world knowledge, focusing on object color knowledge. Three functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiments were conducted in macaque monkeys: viewing chromatic and achromatic gratings, viewing grayscale images of their familiar fruits and vegetables (e.g., grayscale strawberry), and viewing true- and false-colored objects (e.g., red strawberry and green strawberry). We observed robust object knowledge representations in the color patches, especially the one located around TEO: the activity patterns could classify grayscale pictures of objects based on their memory color and response patterns in these regions could translate between chromatic grating viewing and grayscale object viewing (e.g., red grating—grayscale images of strawberry), such that classifiers trained by viewing chromatic gratings could successfully classify grayscale object images according to their memory colors. Our results showed direct positive evidence of object color memory in macaque monkeys. These results indicate the perceptually grounded knowledge representation as a conservative memory mechanism and open a new avenue to study this particular (semantic) memory representation with macaque models.
Tuning collective behaviour in zebrafish with genetic modification
Authors: Yang Yushi , Kawafi Abdelwahab , Tong Qiao , Kague Erika , Hammond Chrissy L. , Royall C. Patrick
Published: October 2024

Zebrafish collective behaviour is widely used to assess their physical and mental state, serving as a valuable tool to assess the impact of ageing, disease genetics, and the effect of drugs. The essence of these macroscopic phenomena can be represented by active matter models, where the individuals are abstracted as interactive self-propelling agents. The behaviour of these agents depends on a set of parameters in a manner reminiscent of those between the constituents of physical systems. In a few cases, the system may be controlled at the level of the individual constituents such as the interactions between colloidal particles, or the enzymatic behaviour of de novo proteins. Usually, however, while the collective behaviour may be influenced by environmental factors, it typically cannot be changed at will. Here, we challenge this scenario in a biological context by genetically modifying zebrafish. We thus demonstrate the potential of genetic modification in the context of controlling the collective behaviour of biological active matter systems at the level of the constituents, rather than externally. In particular, we probe the effect of the lack of col11a2 gene in zebrafish, which causes the early onset of osteoarthritis. The resulting col11a2 -/- zebrafish exhibited compromised vertebral column properties, bent their body less while swimming, and took longer to change their orientations. Surprisingly, a group of 25 mutant fish exhibited more orderly collective motion than the wildtype. We show that the collective behaviour of wildtype and col11a2 -/- zebrafish are captured with a simple active matter model, in which the mutant fish are modelled by self–propelling agents with a higher orientational noise on average. In this way, we demonstrate the possibility of tuning a biological system, changing the state space it occupies when interpreted with a simple active matter model.
Dual role for Headcase in hemocyte progenitor fate determination in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kharrat Bayan , Gábor Erika , Virág Nikolett , Sinka Rita , Jankovics Ferenc , Kristó Ildikó , Vilmos Péter , Csordás Gábor , Honti Viktor
Published: October 2024

The hematopoietic organ of the Drosophila larva, the lymph gland, is a simplified representation of mammalian hematopoietic compartments, with the presence of hemocyte progenitors in the medullary zone (MZ), differentiated hemocytes in the cortical zone (CZ), and a hematopoietic niche called the posterior signaling centre (PSC) that orchestrates progenitor differentiation. Our previous work has demonstrated that the imaginal cell factor Headcase (Hdc, Heca) is required in the hematopoietic niche to control the differentiation of hemocyte progenitors. However, the downstream mechanisms of Hdc-mediated hematopoietic control remained unknown. Here we show that Hdc exerts this function by negatively regulating the insulin/mTOR signaling in the niche. When Hdc is depleted in the PSC, the overactivation of this pathway triggers reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and, in turn, the differentiation of effector lamellocytes non-cell-autonomously. Although overactivation of insulin/mTOR signaling normally leads to an increase in the size of the hematopoietic niche, this effect is concealed by cell death caused by hdc loss-of-function. Moreover, we describe here that hdc silencing in progenitors causes cell-autonomous ROS elevation and JNK pathway activation, resulting in decreased MZ size and differentiation of lamellocytes. Similarly to the PSC niche, knocking down hdc in the MZ also leads to caspase activation. Notably, depleting Hdc in the progenitors triggers proliferation, an opposing effect to what is observed in the niche. These findings further our understanding of how progenitor maintenance in the larval lymph gland is controlled autonomously and non-cell-autonomously, and point towards new mechanisms potentially regulating HSC maintenance across vertebrates.
STIL overexpression shortens lifespan and reduces tumor formation in mice
Authors: Moussa Amira-Talaat , Cosenza Marco R. , Wohlfromm Timothy , Brobeil Katharina , Hill Anthony , Patrizi Annarita , Müller-Decker Karin , Holland-Letz Tim , Jauch Anna , Kraft Bianca , Krämer Alwin
Published: October 2024

Centrosomes are the major microtubule organizing centers of animal cells. Supernumerary centrosomes are a common feature of human tumors and associated with karyotype abnormalities and aggressive disease, but whether they are cause or consequence of cancer remains controversial. Here, we analyzed the consequences of centrosome amplification by generating transgenic mice in which centrosome numbers can be increased by overexpression of the structural centrosome protein STIL. We show that STIL overexpression induces centrosome amplification and aneuploidy, leading to senescence, apoptosis, and impaired proliferation in mouse embryonic fibroblasts, and microcephaly with increased perinatal lethality and shortened lifespan in mice. Importantly, both overall tumor formation in mice with constitutive, global STIL overexpression and chemical skin carcinogenesis in animals with inducible, skin-specific STIL overexpression were reduced, an effect that was not rescued by concomitant interference with p53 function. These results suggest that supernumerary centrosomes impair proliferation in vitro as well as in vivo, resulting in reduced lifespan and delayed spontaneous as well as carcinogen-induced tumor formation.
ZSTK474 targeting PIK3R3 inhibits the Wilms’ tumor through G0 / G1 phase arrest
Authors: Li Maoxian , Liu Jiayan , Jin Liming , Mi Tao , Zhang Zhaoxia , Zhanghuang Chenghao , Li Mujie , Wang Jinkui , Wu Xin , Wang Zhaoying , Wang Zhang , He Dawei
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Wilms’ tumor (WT), also known as nephroblastoma, is the predominant form of primary malignant renal cancer. The unfavorable prognoses linked to anaplastic nephroblastoma and recurrent nephroblastoma emphasize the crucial requirement for the exploration of innovative treatment modalities for WT.

Methods

Our study conducted one-way Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses using TARGET-WT nephroblastoma data to identify differentially expressed genes in nephroblastoma and evaluate their prognostic relevance. Utilizing the Connectivity Map database, ZSTK474 emerged as a viable therapeutic option for WT. The effect of ZSTK474 on WT and related underlying mechanisms were further investigated through in vitro and in vivo investigations.

Results

The in vivo experiment results indicated that ZSTK474 effectively inhibited subcutaneous tumor growth in WT mice. CCK-8 assays revealed two nephroblastoma cell lines exhibited half-inhibitory concentrations of 2μM and 2.51μM for ZSTK474, respectively. ZSTK474 was shown to inhibit the migration and invasion capabilities of WT cells in both Transwell and wound healing assays. Flow cytometry apoptosis and TUNEL assays demonstrated that ZSTK474 induced apoptosis in WT cells. Cell cycle analysis revealed that ZSTK474 led to the induction of G0/G1 phase arrest. Sequencing of ZSTK474-treated WiT49 cells suggested that the impact of ZSTK474 on WT might be mediated by the PI3K/Akt pathway, specifically by inhibiting PIK3R3. Knock-down of PIK3R3 confirmed that ZSTK474 downregulated PIK3R3, reducing Akt phosphorylation, cyclin D and CDK4 levels and elevating P21 expression in nephroblastoma cells. However, current research has limitations, including a lack of understanding of the long-term effects and potential resistance mechanisms of new therapies.

Conclusion

This research provides insight into the potential of ZSTK474 and other PI3K inhibitors for treating nephroblastoma.
Research on aerodynamic performance of centrifugal compressors for hydrogen-mixed natural gas
Authors: Dong Jingya , Song Bin , Yuan Xiaoyun , Jin Wanchun , Wang Jin
Published: October 2024

Natural gas-doped hydrogen transportation has been widely used in industrial engineering. The change of the physical parameters of the conveying medium affects the working performance of the centrifugal compressor. This study aims to explore the aerodynamic performance of centrifugal compressors for hydrogen mixed natural gas, including the effects of hydrogen blending ratio (HBR) and inlet temperature on the pressure ratio and isentropic efficiency of compressors. The numerical simulation method is used and the results are compared with the experimental results to determine the reliability of the numerical simulation method. The results show that the pressure ratio decreases with the increase of HBR where the inlet temperature and rotation speed are constant. The pressure ratio and efficiency of the compressor are the highest when the conveying medium is pure natural gas (HBR = 0). The maximum pressure ratio reduction is 4.8% when the HBR is 5% and the inlet temperature is increased by 20 K. In summary, when the conveying medium of the compressor changes from pure natural gas to hydrogen-mixed natural gas, the working range and efficiency of the compressor will be reduced. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the rotation speed of the compressor or redesign the centrifugal compressor for hydrogen-mixed natural gas in order to achieve a constant flow rate at the outlet of the compressor.
THE SUSTAINABILITY OF ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT WHEN MANAGING MULTI-PRODUCT INNOVATIVE PRODUCTION
Authors: Kuvshinov Mikhail , Karimova Tatyana , Tretyakova Elena
Published: October 2024

Analyzing the sustainable development of innovative industries with the diversification of production for risky projects, this paper studies the possibilities and disadvantages of the traditional applica-tion of cost – volume – profit (CVP) analysis for assessing the implementation of multi-product production projects. The hypothesis is that the sustainable development of enterprises with multi-product production on the basis of the “corrective factors of formation” management model of the overall break-even point of the planned profit of the production with various characteristic initiating perturbations can be ensured by devel-oping a matrix of potential solutions “one initiating factor to one corrective management factor”. The model can to take into account deviations of constant and variable factors in the formation of the final planned prof-it for multi-product production, including the difference of clock productivity and planned periods for the production of individual products and changes in factors. The methodical approach is illustrated by examples of analytical calculations and generalized graphical representations of changes in the variable and fixed costs of one product at the expense of a possible change in variable costs of another product, and by adjusting the fixed costs at the expense of a possible change in the fixed costs of another product. The approach is largely universal under other boundary conditions for the pairs of initiating-correcting influence to assess the sus-tainability of the development of mono- and multi-product production.
Macrophyte Diversity and Ecosystem Services in Wetlands of Eastern Ranchi: A Multi-site Analysis of Abundance, Frequency, and Importance Value Index Patterns
Authors: MAHATO JITENDRA , Ghosh Dr.Sujit
Published: October 2024

Macrophytes, visible aquatic and semi-aquatic plants, are integral components of wetland ecosystems, playing crucial roles in maintaining biodiversity, providing ecosystem services, and ensuring ecological stability. This research examines the distribution, abundance, frequency, diversity, and ecosystem services of macrophytes in several wetlands (W1-W7) located in the eastern part of Ranchi district, Jharkhand, India. The study sites include Bundu Lake, Hindalco Pond, Choga Bada Talab, Raja Bandh, Kita Uparbandh, Tamar Bada Talab, and Rukka Dam. A quantitative assessment using quadrat sampling and phytosociological methods was conducted from September 2022 to March 2023 to ensure accurate data collection and analysis. The study documented 78 macrophyte species belonging to 33 families and 58 genera. Emergent macrophytes were found to be the dominant life form, constituting 69% of the recorded species. Several species demonstrated high frequency and abundance across multiple study sites, including Pontederia crassipes Mart., Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart) Griseb., Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle, Ipomoea aquaticaForssk., and Nymphoides hydrophyllum (Lour.) kuntze. To assess the diversity and ecological characteristics of the macrophyte communities, various diversity indices were calculated. These included the Shannon-Wiener index, Simpson's index, Margalef index, and Pielou's Evenness index. The results of these analyses revealed high levels of macrophyte diversity and evenness within the studied wetlands. Twenty-one macrophytes were identified as key species and nine species as rare species based on their IVI (Importance Value Index) scores. The key species were found to provide essential ecosystem services, including erosion control, water quality improvement, nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and habitat provision for other organisms. This research contributes significantly to our understanding of macrophyte diversity patterns and traits-based ecosystem services in wetland ecosystems. The findings of this study have important implications for the development and implementation of effective conservation strategies for these vital wetland ecosystems in the eastern Ranchi (W1- W7).
Larvicidal properties of essential oils of three Artemisia species against the chemically insecticide-resistant Nile fever vector Culex pipiens (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae): In vitro and in silico studies
Authors: Chebbac Khalid , Abchir Oussama , Chalkha Mohammed , El Moussaoui Abdelfattah , El kasmi-alaoui Mohammed , Lafraxo Soufyane , Chtita Samir , Alanazi Mohammed M. , Alanazi Ashwag S. , Hefnawy Mohamed , Zouirech Otmane , Ouaritini Zineb Benziane , Guemmouh Raja
Published: October 2024

The objective of this study is to determine the larvicidal activity of essential oils (EOs) extracted from three plants of the genus Artemisia against the mosquito Culex pipiens (C. pipiens) using in vitro and in silico studies. A total number of 20 third- and fourth-instar larvae were exposed to various concentrations of the three plants. The LC50 and LC90 values of the tested Artemisia EOs were determined using Probit analysis. In addition, the sensitivity of C. pipiens to these EOs was determined and compared against a standard insecticide, temephos, under laboratory conditions. Furthermore, in silico assessments were carried out on the major constituents to help understand and explain the acquired in vivo results. Gas chromatography analysis identified the major compounds as d-limonene and β-pinene for Artemisia flahaultii, camphor and borneol for Artemisia. aragonensis, and artemisia ketone and caryophyllene for Artemisia annua. A. flahaultii oil showed the highest efficacy against C. pipiens larvae, followed by A. annua oil with average larvicidal activity. In contrast, A. aragonensis EO, composed of a high percentage of monoterpenes, was the least active. Docking simulation indicated that several studied ligands had promising binding scores within the receptor’s binding site compared to the reference insecticide temephos. The obtained results allow us to conclude that A. flahaultii, a species endemic to Morocco, is an excellent means of controlling C. pipiens.
High-order finite-difference ghost-point methods for elliptic problems in domains with curved boundaries
Authors: Coco Armando , Russo Giovanni
Published: October 2024

In this article, a fourth-order finite-difference ghost-point method for the Poisson equation on regular Cartesian mesh is presented. The method can be considered the high-order extension of the second-order ghost method introduced earlier by the authors. Three different discretizations are considered, which differ in the stencil that discretizes the Laplacian and the source term. It is shown that only two of them provide a stable method. The accuracy of such stable methods is numerically verified on several test problems.
The shadow economy in industrial countries
Authors:   Cologne Institute for Economic Research, Enste Dominik H.
Published: October 2024

The shadow (underground) economy has a major impact on society and economy in many countries. People evade taxes and regulations by working in the shadow economy or by employing people illegally. On the one hand, this unregulated economic activity can result in reduced tax revenue and fewer public goods and services, lower tax morale and less tax compliance, higher control costs, and lower economic growth rates. But on the other hand, the shadow economy can be a powerful force fostering institutional change and boosting the overall production of goods and services in an economy. The shadow economy has implications on the political order and institutional change. illustration
Laboratory Study of Interface Friction between Sand and Steel Surfaces
Authors: Israr Jahanzaib , Ahmad Iftikhar
Published: October 2024

In this study, results have been reported from a series of laboratory tests to determine the interface friction angle of steel surfaces with sand through modified direct shear testing. For completion, steel surfaces with different surface geometry to replicate the roughness have been slid against various sands compacted at different relative densities under both dry and wet conditions. The standard square shape direct shear box has been modified into circular and rectangular boxes to sufficiently enhance the contact area and to subsequently quantify its effect on interface friction angle. A mild steel interface of smooth and rough texture with a groove depth of 0.2 mm and tipping at an angle of 90° has been used in this study. The analysis of results revealed that the interface friction angles obtained from the standard direct shear box agree closely with those obtained from both modified rectangular and circular shear boxes. However, the ratio of the interface friction angle from the modified apparatus and soil’s angle of internal friction significantly depends upon the roughness of the surface in contact with the sand, its median particle size, and is independent of the effects of box size, soil’s relative density, and dry or wet condition. A comparison between existing well-accepted guidelines and current observations has been presented for use by the practicing engineers dealing with soil-structure interaction.