bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Dynamic Cooperation Cluster Empowered Cell-Free Massive MIMO Architecture Network for Future Networks
Authors: Sheikh Javaid A , Haseena Haseena , Mustafa Farhana
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates cell free massive Multiple Input Multiple Output ( MIMO ) where in access pints are aided by the optimized multiple antenna system. The proposed cell-free network has the ability to address many of the interference problems that currently affect cellular networks. However, a major issue and the research problem is to practically achieve cell free operation. Additionally achieving desired computing efficiency, fronthaul needs and scalability for larger networks are other challenges which needs due consideration. To address such challenging issues, we incorporate the concept of dynamic cooperation cluster to develop a new framework for scalable CF-Massive-MIMO system. The A* Algorithm has been exploited to enhance the signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio (SNIR), capacity and throughput. Moreover, the traditional channel estimation, pre-coding, and combining techniques have also been scaled in the proposed technique. A new Uplink and Downlink duality based on vector combining is demonstrated for the heuristic creation of precoding vectors.
Attosecond and nano-Coulomb electron bunches via the Zero Vector Potential mechanism
Authors: Timmis Robin , Paddock Robert , Ouatu Iustin , Lee Jordan , Howard Sunny , Atonga Eduard , Ruskov Rusko , Martin Heath , Wang Robin , Aboushelbaya Ramy , Leyen Marko von der , Gumbrell Edward , Norreys Peter
Published: October 2023

The commissioning of multi-petawatt class laser facilities around the world is gathering pace. One of the primary motivations for these investments is the acceleration of high-quality, low-emittance electron bunches. Here we explore the interaction of a high-intensity femtosecond laser pulse with a mass-limited dense target to produce MeV attosecond electron bunches in transmission and confirm with three-dimensional simulation that such bunches have low emittance and nano-Coulomb charge. We then perform a large parameter scan from non-relativistic laser intensities to the laser-QED regime and from the critical plasma density to beyond solid density to demonstrate that the electron bunch energies and the laser pulse energy absorption into the plasma can be quantitatively described via the Zero Vector Potential mechanism. These results have wide-ranging implications for future particle accelerator science and associated technologies.
A Hyperledger Fabric-based EMR Sharing Mechanisms with Proxy Re-encryption and IPFS
Authors: Huang Der-Chen , Liu Ling-Chun , Deng Yong-Yuan , Chen Chin-Ling , Zeng Kuang-Wei
Published: October 2023

With the advent of the information age, data storage has not only developed from paper information systems to electronic information system storage but has also extended to cloud database storage methods. To date, we can see the application of big data and the cloud in various fields and levels, which makes the induction, arrangement, transmission, and exchange of data easier and faster. The electronic and systematization of patient medical records in the medical environment is an example. The use of electronic medical records can help to improve the quality of medical care, reduce duplication of treatment, and reduce the waste of examination resources. It has many advantages, but also many risks. Medical institutions may abuse electronic medical data without the consent of patients leading to the leakage of patient privacy data and causing serious social impact. Therefore, this study proposes a medical record exchange and sharing mechanism based on the Hyperledger blockchain architecture combined with proxy re-encryption. When pharmacists need to obtain medical records for related research, patients can decide whether to share medical records, and hospitals can also revoke the access rights of pharmacists at any time to achieve more private, secure, and convenient sharing of medical records. The proposed scheme meets various blockchain security requirements, and the BAN (Burrows–Abadi–Needham) logic proof model is applied to evaluate the correctness of the proposed scheme. The proposed scheme performs well in terms of computational and communication costs.
Accelerating Attentional Generative Adversarial Networks with Sampling Blocks
Authors: Zhang Chong , Jin Mingyu , Yu Qinkai , Xue Haochen , Yang Xi , Jin Xiaobo
Published: October 2023

Synthesizing text-to-image models for high-quality images by guiding generative models through text descriptions is an innovative and challenging task. In recent years, AttnGAN has been proposed based on the Attention mechanism to guide GAN training, which improves the details and quality of images by stacking multiple generators and discriminators. However, the combination of multiple enhancements in GAN architecture introduces redundancy, hindering the practical application of the model. These redundancies adversely affect its performance, resulting in increased inference time and space complexity. In this paper, we propose an accelerated AttnGAN (AccAttnGAN) to optimize the structure and training efficiency of AttnGAN by (1) removing redundant structures and improving the backbone network of AttnGAN; (2) integrating and reconstructing multiple losses for the training of deep attention model. Experimental results show that AccAttnGAN significantly reduces the space complexity and time complexity of the model during inference while maintaining performance. Code is available at https://github.com/jmyissb/SEAttnGAN.
Progress and Trends of Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing: A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis
Authors: Raza Ali , Ndiaye Mamadou
Published: October 2023

Recent trends and advancements in the field of artificial intelligence have initiated their extensive integration across diverse industrial domains. Despite its nascent stage of development, several studies reveal that artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to play an important role in the development of modern and innovative manufacturing at a substantial scale. This study presents a visually enriched bibliometric analysis of the global status and trends of artificial intelligence in the prominent manufacturing sector using VOS, Python and R Studio software. Specifically, it undertakes a thorough examination of the existing scholarly literature on AI in manufacturing sourced from the Scopus database, encompassing the period from 2013 to 2022. Over the last decade, there has been a substantial rising trend in AI in manufacturing research. The accumulation of papers in this topic has closely followed a polynomial growth model and predicted the publications on AI in manufacturing-related topics to be over 5000 per year. China has emerged as the top contributor to worldwide research efforts in AI in manufacturing, followed by the USA, India, Germany, and the United Kingdom. However, the journals “Procedia CIRP”, International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, and IEEE Access from the Netherlands, United Kingdom, and USA, respectively, have the most publications per year in this field. Western Reserve University, Clevland, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, followed by University of Central Florida, Orlando, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, School of Mechanical Engineering are the most productive institutes in terms of contributions to this topic.
Improvement of pricing in the construction industry: Integrating information modeling technologies and transitioning regions to the resource index method
Authors: Golovina N. V. , Matveeva M. V.
Published: October 2023

Ensuring accurate cost estimation for project implementation, while accounting for regional specifics, is a crucial task for pricing practices in the construction industry. To address this challenge, the transition from the base index method with cost item indexation to the resource index method for estimating project costs is planned in the 1st quarter of 2023. Additionally, starting from 2024, the mandatory use of information modeling technologies for project design will be implemented. This article examines the rationale behind implementing modifications in the pricing system, outlines the algorithm for estimating costs using the resource index method, identifies the advantages and challenges associate with this new approach, and highlights the prospects of integrating information modeling technologies. The study employs comparative and statistical analysis, as well as methods of synthesis and systematization of information. The analysis of data from the Federal State Information System of Pricing in Construction (TsS FSIS) focuses on regions that have already transitioned to the resource index method. On the basis of the research findings, the article reveals the issues related to the adoption of alternative cost estimation methods in a region. It also proposes approaches for enhancing the pricing system to effectively apply the resource index method for cost estimation in construction projects, while incorporating the use of information modeling technologies (IMT).
Evaluation of startups through Internet platforms
Authors: Sobolev A. S. , Konyukhov V. Yu , Druzhinina T. Ya. , Tarakanovskaya V. N.
Published: October 2023

The situation in the venture capital market is continually changing, as evidenced by the statistics on the use of venture investment pools. Experienced investors, reducing their risks, give preference to firmly established startups that are at intermediate and late stages of development, as well as those in the sphere of IT development and high technologies. This approach leads to a situation when investors do not notice quite a number of interesting, impressive and promising projects at their early and seed stages. In this regard, it is relevant to consider some methods aimed at the evaluation of startups at different stages of their development. The traditional methods of evaluating projects with no operational history are not suitable. The instruments for preparing startup business plans as well as discounting and compounding tools are relevant up to the entry point of the search for financial resources. In a real situation, a perspective innovative startup risks to be taken over as a result of the only available way of mobilising resources – through the inclusion of investors in the startup owners (shareholders) pool. Other traditional sources – internal funds and bank loans – limit a startup’s resource, most often at the seed stage, due to their limited scope and high cost of borrowed capital. As a rule, the borrowed capital in the form of bank loan is basically unavailable for startup initiation due to no ways to ensure repayment guarantees, while the possibility of relying on a business plan for a startup in the process of raising bank funds is a common misconception. In recent years, the impact of the development of specific Internet resources on the structure of investment in economy has been tangible. In addition to innovative ideas in entrepreneurship, a number of instruments specific of new processes in investing are being realised. Business angels, accelerators, startup-oriented Internet resources are shifting to the mechanisms of remote assessment of startup potential and its subsequent funding.
Development of proposals for improving the pricing of construction products
Authors: Yamshchikovа I. V. , Abramenko E. V.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the article is to explore the current situation in the pricing reform as of the 2nd quarter of 2023 using the example of costing for operating machines and mechanisms in calculating the estimated cost on the basis of the resource-and-index method. The methodological basis of the study is represented by economic and statistical analysis, systemic approach, systematisation of theoretical and practical material. The analysis of estimated prices for operation of machines and mechanisms is made on the basis of the ones posted in the Federal State Information System of Construction Pricing as of the 2nd quarter of 2023 and calculated in current prices with the use of estimated cost change indices relative to a group of homogeneous resources. Most of the reviewed examples for basic machinery and mechanisms used in construction show a negative deviation when calculated using the estimated cost change index. The use of prices for the operation of machinery and mechanisms, obtained using the estimated cost change index, can lead to underestimation of costs required for construction and, as a consequence, emergence of obstacles to successful realisation of a construction project. Based on the results of the analysis, proposals have been made to improve the construction products pricing on the basis of due costing for operation of machinery and mechanisms. It is necessary to envisage a number of measures aimed at successful realisation of investment and construction projects and due development of the construction sector as a whole.
Automated estimation of road facilities within 5D modeling paradigm
Authors: Dmitrieva T. L. , Chernyago A. B.
Published: October 2023

The paper is aimed at considering the possibility of automated estimation of road facilities on the basis of data obtained from the bill of quantities at the design or construction stages. The authors accepted Tomita Parser as a for extracting facts and parameters from the bill of quantities. Further comparison of quantities of work with Federal Unit Rates and State Itemized Cost Estimate Standards is carried out by the program algorithm developed by the authors for calculating and estimating costs. The presented manual method for creating a database compiled on the basis of comparing the bill of quantities with the above federal regulations may be considered reliable. However, large data sets require machine learning technologies to be applied. The program algorithm considers many estimation settings, in particular, assigning the index to construction and installation works, the total coefficient to the positions by types of work (for example, performance of work on one half of the roadway), etc. The finished estimate is generated in a *.xml file and can be further integrated into the road information model and converted into *.gge format for using by the Federal autonomous institution “Main Department of State Expertise”. The results showed that all key parameters from the bill of quantities were taken into account by the program algorithm. The generated estimate considered all coefficients and prices to accurately reflect the cost of the works described in this bill.
Improving concrete quality for transport construction
Authors: Koroleva O. I. , Orlov V. S. , Shustov P. A.
Published: October 2023

The creation of a transport network with high performance characteristics of the roadbed is an urgent task in the field of road construction. Foreign practice in the construction and operation of such facilities indicates the need for research studies aimed at obtaining an optimal concrete stone structure by optimizing the concrete composition (controlling the concrete mixture properties at the microlevel) and using state-of-the-art complex additives. The technological properties of concrete mixture and concrete were studied in accordance with the requirements of the current regulatory documentation using verified equipment. The compressive strength of concrete was determined using an MS2000 testing machine (with a measuring range of up to 2000 kN and a loading error of no more than 1%). The abrasion level was estimated by the loss of the sample mass during operation of an LKI-3 device (abrasion disc). The mass water absorption was determined by variations in the sample mass during water saturation. The article presents the physical and mechanical characteristics of heavy concrete (strength, abrasion, water absorption) obtained using TechniFlow-61, TechniFlow-178 PRO, and PowerFlow-3100 additives. The results indicate the positive effect of the above additives, which can be used to decrease the water-cement ratio for obtaining concrete mixtures of a given mobility, produce concretes of a denser structure, and reduce the number of open pores. The conclusion is made about the effectiveness of new-generation additives with plasticizing and water-reducing agents for improving the technological properties of concrete mixtures, as well as the physical and mechanical characteristics of the resultant concretes.
Technical evaluation of steel roof trusses for a large pool basin
Authors: Kuritsyna А. М. , Kamchatkina V. M. , Orlov M. T.
Published: October 2023

In this work, we carry out a technical evaluation of steel roof trusses for a large basin of the Del’fin pool in the city of Ust-Ilimsk with the purpose of determining their further operability. This task involves establishing the damage degree of building structures and the category of their technical condition based on a comparison between the actual values of quantifiable attributes and those established by the project or regulatory documents. The studied objects are represented by steel trusses with a span of 15 m, located in plan with a spacing of 6.0 m and conditionally divided into 2 groups: reinforcement trusses (F-1 and F-4) and existing trusses without reinforcement (F-2 and F-3). We analyze the technical, as-built, and operational documentation, and carry out visual and measuring control procedures. The verification calculation of the most loaded truss elements is presented (not provided in the article). According to the analysis of the obtained data, the condition of the studied steel trusses can be concluded as unacceptable and emergency. The emergency technical condition of the F-2 and F-3 trusses is due to the unprovided bearing capacity of support brace struts and insufficient length of welds, fastening the support brace struts. The unacceptable technical condition of the reinforcement trusses F-1 and F-4 is due to the insufficient length of the welds, fastening the support brace struts, as well as the deviations in a number of technical solutions, outlined in the reinforcement project, from the current norms. Recommendations on the further operability of roof structures are provided.
Inverse dynamics method in properties estimation of residual stiffness of multi-story buildings
Authors: Sobolev V. I. , Sobolev I. V. , Karmazinov D. A.
Published: October 2023

The present paper considers methods and algorithms for determining the values of horizontal stiffness of multi-story buildings based on experimental laser measurements of their natural vibrations. The developments findings are used in determining the residual stiffness of various structures in a certain operation period, subjected to intensive dynamic loading. No need for a close inspection of buildings associated with the inevitable dismantling of enclosures and emptying of the buildings is considered as an advantage of such methods for determining the stiffness parameters of buildings. Direct method for determining the horizontal stiffness of buildings by means of specified displacements and corresponding forces in their elements implies fixing of tension elements in specified nodes – mass centers of structures. However, in some cases, they fail to be implemented. The suggested approach demonstrates its potential in the inspection of a large residential area consistent of buildings under different operating conditions, thus requiring the development of an action plan to ensure the functionality of the structures. In addition, the paper demonstrates that using the dynamic low-size models in the estimation of stiffness parameters implies determining the principles of forming the types of such models.
Resolving phase transitions with discontinuous Galerkin methods
Authors: Grossi Eduardo , Wink Nicolas
Published: October 2023

We demonstrate the applicability and advantages of Discontinuous Galerkin (DG) schemes in the context of the Functional Renormalization Group (fRG). We investigate the O(N)O(N)-model in the large NN limit. It is shown that the flow equation for the effective potential can be cast into a conservative form. We discuss results for the Riemann problem, as well as initial conditions leading to a first and second order phase transition. In particular, we unravel the mechanism underlying first order phase transitions, based on the formation of a shock in the derivative of the effective potential.
Evaluation of the Influence of pH on the Release of Exchangeable Cations from a Mixed Clay Mineral Deposit for Replenishment of Soil Nutrients
Authors: Irabor Emmanuel Enoguan   Ighodaro , Esanukpe Linda , Imafidon Monday Idiaghe , Ogbeide Osahon Kennedy , Okunzuwa Iyobosa Gift , Unuigbe Charles Akhadelor , Omoruyi Uwaila
Published: October 2023

Soil nutrients consist of minerals such as Ca, Mg, K and Na ions among others which are essential to plant growth. Soils can become deficient in these nutrients on account of pollution, flooding and over cultivation. The soil condition can be ameliorated by addition of clay minerals which are rich in aforementioned cations. The mineralogy of the clay mineral was investigated using X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) and the effect of pH variation on the release of exchangeable cations of the clay mineral deposit were investigated by varying the pH of the solution in which the clay mineral was immersed whereas the amount of the cations released were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer(AAS) and Flame Emission Spectrophotometer.  Three clay minerals clinochlore, kaolinite and illite were detected. The quantity of cations released from the clay mineral varied with pH; and the pH at which the maximum quantity   of the cations were released were pH4 for K+ ions(4.63±0.38cmol/kg), pH7 Ca2+ (12.09±0.96 cmol/kg) and Mg2+(3.48±0.08 cmol/kg) ions and pH8 for Na+(7.81±0.58 cmol/kg) ions respectively for site 1. This trend was observed in the three sites that were studied. This study has revealed that different pH conditions are required if this mixed clay mineral is to be employed in the remediation of nutrient deficiency in any soil in respect of a particular mineral.
Quantifying the influence of urban road surface roughness on heavy metals pollution in road-deposited sediment's accumulation and wash-off
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , You Zai-Jin , Akram M. Zuhaib , Ali Shoaib
Published: October 2023

Surface roughness is an important factor to consider when evaluating the loads of surface runoff caused by road-deposited sediment (RDS) wash-off and creating management solutions for this occurrence in metropolitan areas. Nevertheless, the implications of surface roughness on RDS development and escape remain unclear due to a paucity of experimental evidence distinguishing the significance of surface roughness. This research aimed to differentiate the impact of surface roughness on RDS accumulation and wash-off by employing paired asphalt, rainfall simulation designs, and concrete road surfaces. Our findings indicated that normal asphalt surfaces are typically rougher than typical concrete surfaces because they frequently contain deeper depressions. Compared to concrete surfaces, asphalt surfaces typically retain more RDS, a higher proportion of coarse aggregates, more RDS wash-off loads, and a lower proportion of wash-off. Surface roughness has varying impacts on the RDS motilities of particulates of varying sizes during rainy runoff; nevertheless, the settleable particles (40–150 μm) were more noticeably impacted by it. The first flush effect also seemed to be more pronounced on surfaces with lower roughness. Hence, surface roughness has a significant impact on how RDS builds on and is washed off of various road aspects.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Dialkyl (Aryl) α-(Aryl/Heterocyclic/Heteroaryl- α-(Aryl/Heteroarylamino)Phosphonates
Authors: Ali Tarik E. , Assiri Mohammed A. , Hussien Mohamed , El-Tantawy El Sayed Ibrahim
Published: October 2023

This review describes recent advances that are commonly applied in the synthesis of
dialkyl (aryl) α-aminophosphonates containing heterocyclic compounds. The target structures are
divided into three categories, which include α-aminophosphonic acids and their diesters bearing a
heterocyclic or heteroaryl system at the α-carbon, nitrogen atom, or both. The synthetic protocols
based on the Kabachnik-Fields and Pudovik reactions as the main pathways for the construction
of these features, besides other miscellaneous methods. This review may be a useful resource for
researchers and it will help them to work in this emerging research area.
5-Aminolevulinic Acid Tautomers: Theoretical Elucidation of pKa’s, Species
Distribution and Dimerization Constants
Authors: Mendoza-Sarmiento Gabriela , Guevara-García José Antonio , Pérez-González Adriana , Montiel-Corona Virginia
Published: October 2023

5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) applications in medicine and agriculture face
the challenge of stability. In aqueous solutions, concentration, pH, and temperature have
an effect on the loss of activity. Computational chemistry helps to determine tautomerization,
formation of derivatives and the stability, in different conditions, in a short time and
reducing the cost of analysis. This work aimed to model the 5-ALA molecule and its tautomers
in aqueous solution, determine its pKa and molar fractions at different pH, determine
its thermodynamic and kinetic parameters, and predict the degree of dimerization
under different conditions. Gaussian 16 program, Density Functional Theory, and the
M05-2X functional were used to obtain the stationary state frequencies. From the difference
in Gibbs free energy (ΔGs) between each acid/base conjugate, pKa values and molar fractions at different
pH's were determined. Equilibrium constants were calculated from the ΔGr at different temperatures. Using data
from the literature, the activation energy was optimized and the rate constants were obtained. A model was obtained
to approximate the half-life, t0.5, and shelf-life, t0.9, values for 5-ALA solutions. pKa values obtained, 4.40
and 7.87, coincide with the potentiometric determinations reported in the literature. The thermodynamic and
kinetics parameters calculated in this study correctly predict the percentage of 5-ALA dimerization at concentrations
≤ 0.075M (1.25%) and 15°C-50°C. This work integrates quantum chemistry and literature data to generate
a model for the degree of decomposition of 5-ALA at different pH, temperature and concentration. It will be
useful in applications in medicine, agriculture and other fields.
Double Bubble Electrospinning: Patents and Nanoscale Interface
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Li Ya , He Ji-Huan
Published: October 2023

Background:

Bipolymeric nanofibers have gained significant attention in various fields
due to their enhanced functionality, improved mechanical properties, and controlled release capabilities. However, the fabrication of these composite fibers with a well-defined polymer-polymer interface remains a challenging task.

Methods:

The double bubble electrospinning setup was developed and simulated using Maxwell 3D
to analyze the electric field. PVP and PVA polymers were electrospun simultaneously to create bipolymer nanofibers with an interface. The resulting nanofibers were compared with nanofibers made
from pure PVA, PVP, and a PVA/PVP blend. The characterization of the nanofibers was performed
using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and
thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).

Results:

The SEM images showed the formation of PVA/PVP interfacial nanofibers aligned side by
side, with a diameter of a few thousand nanometers on each side. By increasing the voltage from 20
kV to 40 kV during electrospinning, the diameter of the nanofibers on the PVA and PVP sides was
successfully reduced by 60.8% and 66.3%, respectively. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of
both PVA and PVP in the bipolymeric interfacial nanofibers. TGA analysis demonstrated a weight
retention of 14.28% compared to PVA, PVP, and the PVA/PVP blend even after degradation at
500°C. The Maxwell simulation of double bubble electrospinning revealed a stronger and more uniform electric field pattern at 40 kV compared to 20 kV.

Conclusion:

The study has demonstrated the potential of double bubble electrospinning for the fabrication of bipolymer nanofibers with an interface, opening new avenues for the development of
functional nanofibers.
Radioactive Iodine in Differentiated Carcinoma of Thyroid: An Overview
Authors: Singh Namit Kant , Ramamourthy Balaji , Hage Neemu , Nagaraju Sushmitha , Kappagantu Krishna Medha
Published: October 2023

Thyroid cancer is the fifth most prevalent cancer in women and the fastest-growing
malignancy. Although surgery is still the basis of treatment, internal radiation therapy
(Brachytherapy) with radioactive iodine-131, which functions by releasing beta particles with
low tissue penetration and causing DNA damage, is also a potential option. The three basic aims
of RAI therapy in well-differentiated thyroid tumors are ablation of the remnant, adjuvant
therapy, and disease management. Radioactive iodine dose is selected in one of two ways,
empiric and dosimetric, which relies on numerous criteria. The dosage for ablation is 30-100
mCi, 30-150 mCi for adjuvant therapy, and 100-200 mCi for treatment. The RAI treatment
effectively aids in the treatment to achieve complete removal of the disease and increase
survival. The present review intends to emphasize the significance of radioactive iodine in the
management of differentiated thyroid cancer and put forward the current breakthroughs in
therapy.
Phytochemical screening, antioxidant, antishigella and antileishmanial activities of ethanolic extract of Rourea coccinea (Schumach & Thonn.) Benth leaves
Authors:   Laboratory of Physic and Synthesis Organic Chemistry (LaCOPS), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP : 4166 Cotonou, Benin, Goueti Basile ,   Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Essential Oils (LAPHE), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Health Sciences (FSS), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP: 188 Cotonou, Benin,   Center for Studies on Medicinal Plants and Traditionnal Medicine (CRPMT) Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal plants Studies (IMPM), PO. Box 13033, yaoundé, Cameroon, Kpadonou-Kpoviess Bénédicta ,   Laboratory of Physic and Synthesis Organic Chemistry (LaCOPS), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP : 4166 Cotonou, Benin,   Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Essential Oils (LAPHE), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Health Sciences (FSS), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP: 188 Cotonou, Benin, Fatondji Raymond ,   Laboratory of Physic and Synthesis Organic Chemistry (LaCOPS), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP : 4166 Cotonou, Benin, Atchade Bardieu ,   Laboratory of Physic and Synthesis Organic Chemistry (LaCOPS), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP : 4166 Cotonou, Benin, Djouonzo Toukam Paul ,   Center for Studies on Medicinal Plants and Traditionnal Medicine (CRPMT) Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal plants Studies (IMPM), PO. Box 13033, yaoundé, Cameroon, Kpoviessi Salomé ,   Laboratory of Physic and Synthesis Organic Chemistry (LaCOPS), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP : 4166 Cotonou, Benin,   Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Essential Oils (LAPHE), University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Faculty of Health Sciences (FSS), Faculty of Sciences and Technics (FAST), 01 BP: 188 Cotonou, Benin
Published: October 2023

Rourea coccinea is widely used as a medicinal plant in the world, especially in West Africa. The phytochemical screening of ethanolic extract of leaves by applying the Houghton and Raman method with some modifications revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, tannins, coumarins, anthocyanins and anthraquinones. The antiradical test was performed using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt) and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) with a Scavenging concentration 50 (SC50) of 101.19 µg/mL, 34.73 µg/mL and 88.93 µg/mL respectively. The extract anti-shigella activity determined by the microdilution method was low. According to Jair Siquera-Neto et al., the antileishmanial study using the colorimetric resealing method showed activity against promastigote strains of Leishmania donovani with an inhibitory concentration of IC50=32.26 µg/mL. The traditional use of Rourea coccinea, to treat several diseases, would be justified by these pharmacological property's tests.
Can low concentration flufenoxuron treatment increase the pathogenicity or production of nucleopolyhedrovirus occlusion bodies in Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) or Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)?
Authors: Pressa-Parra Ehdibaldo , Navarro-de-la-Fuente Laura , Williams Trevor , Lasa Rodrigo
Published: October 2023

Nucleopolyhedroviruses (Baculoviridae) are lethal pathogens that naturally infect lepidopteran larvae. The chitin synthesis inhibitor flufenoxuron has been reported to potentiate the insecticidal properties of nucleopolyhedrovirus occlusion bodies (OBs) by degrading the integrity of the peritrophic matrix in lepidopteran larvae. In the present study we examined the effect of flufenoxuron treatment on susceptibility of Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) and Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) fifth instars to their homologous nucleopolyhedroviruses, SeMNPV and SfMNPV, respectively. Preliminary bioassays indicated that a 1 mg/l concentration of flufenoxuron resulted in 6.6 - 13.3% mortality of larvae, which could be used in combination with OB inoculum concentrations of 1.5 × 104 OBs/ml of SeMNPV OBs or 1.3 × 10⁶ OBs/ml of SfMNPV OBs. Treatment of larvae with flufenoxuron did not significantly affect virus-induced mortality of either S. exigua (16.7 - 17.2%) or S. frugiperda (28.9 - 34.4%) and had no significant effect on the mean yield of OBs from virus-killed insects of either species. The identity of both SeMNPV and SfMNPV in experimental insects was confirmed by examination of the restriction endonuclease profiles of each virus. These findings contrast with the results of previous studies in which high concentrations of flufenoxuron (100 mg/l) greatly potentiated virus-induced mortality in the silkworm Bombyx mori L., although insect mortality due to flufenoxuron treatment alone was not reported, for reasons that are unclear. We conclude that flufenoxuron (1 mg/l) failed to potentiate the insecticidal activity of SeMNPV or SfMNPV in their respective hosts.
Study the properties of ram semen preserved at 5°C for different periods
after adding different levels of acai fruit extract.
Authors: Fadel Rad Hasan , Hussien Banana Husam Jasim
Published: October 2023

This study was conducted to know the effect of adding an aqueous extract of Acai
fruit (Euterpe oleracea Martius) to the semen extender of Awassi rams on semen
Parameters after storage at cooling. This study was carried out in the animal field
and laboratories of the Department of Animal Production-College of Agricultural
Engineering University of Baghdad from November 15, 2021, to April 25, 2022.
Three local Awassi rams were used in this experiment. Their ages were between
2.5 - 3 years, and they weighed Between 50-58 kg. Semen was collected from them
using an artificial vagina to obtain one ejaculate from each ram per week. The
samples were divided using Tris extender: 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 mg Acai extract / 1 ml
Tris in addition to the control group. The necessary tests were performed to
evaluate the semen in terms of estimating individual motility, the percentage of
sperm viability, the percentage of abnormal sperms, the integrity of the plasma
membrane and the acrosome integrity. There was a significant increase (P<0.05) in
the percentage of sperm viability during the T3 treatment periods (48 and 72 hours)
compared to the control group C for the same two periods; also there were no
significant differences between all groups in the two periods (0 and 24 hours) of
preservation in comparison with the control treatment C. Moreover T3 recorded a
significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the percentage of sperm abnormality after 24
hours of preservation when compared with the control group C in the same period,
while there were no significant differences between groups T1, T2, T3 and T4
compared with the control group C in the periods 0, 48 and 72 hours.
Keywords: ram semen, acai fruit, plant extracts
Change in Hydro- Chemical Properties and Water Quality of a Lentic Ecosystems: Baghdad Touristic Island Lake
Authors: Wahhab Taibat A. , Hassan Fikrat M
Published: October 2023

Protecting a lentic ecosystem became important during acute water scarcity and
global warming worldwide, particularly in Iraq. The study investigated the change
in hydro-chemical properties and water quality index (WQI) of Baghdad Touristic
Island Lake as a lentic ecosystem during the change in Iraqi climate. Three sites
were selected in the lake to study the hydro-chemical properties and its water
quality. Lake water is alkaline, very hard, good aeration and oligotrophic. Results
recorded alteration in water properties in some parameters while other was within
presumable values. WQI results revealed the alteration in water quality and ranged
between poor- and marginal criteria for protecting the organism's life. Therefore, it
needs to enhance the lake management and keep it within oligotrophic states to
prevent eutrophication and support the lake's survival for tourism.
Keywords: Water Quality, Lentic Ecosystems, pollution
Implementation of Anxiety UK’s Ask Anxia Chatbot Service: Lessons Learned (Preprint)
Authors: Collins Luke , Nicholson Niamh , Lidbetter Nicky , Smithson Dave , Baker Paul
Published: October 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Chatbots are increasingly being applied in the context of health care, providing access to services when there are constraints on human resources. Simple, rule-based chatbots are suited to high-volume, repetitive tasks and can therefore be used effectively in providing users with important health information. In this Viewpoint paper, we report on the implementation of a chatbot service called Ask Anxia as part of a wider provision of information and support services offered by the UK national charity, Anxiety UK. We reflect on the changes made to the chatbot over the course of approximately 18 months as the Anxiety UK team monitored its performance and responded to recurrent themes in user queries by developing further information and services. We demonstrate how corpus linguistics can contribute to the evaluation of user queries and the optimization of responses. On the basis of these observations of how Anxiety UK has developed its own chatbot service, we offer recommendations for organizations looking to add automated conversational interfaces to their services.
Potential of plant extracts to inhibit egg hatching and migration of Haemonchus contortus larvae
Authors: Aguilar-Urquizo Edgar , Marcín-Marrufo Erika Mercedes , Magaña-Magaña Miguel Ángel , Piñeiro-Vázquez Ángel Trinidad , Torres-Acosta Juan Felipe de Jesús , Itza-Ortiz Mateo
Published: October 2023

Gastrointestinal parasitosis constitutes important health problems, aggravating throughout the years, due to inadequate use of drugs for its control, causing anthelmintic resistance. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the potential of Azadirachta indica (AZA) and Moringa oleifera (MOR) extracts in inhibiting egg hatching and in vitro migration of Haemonchus contortus larvae. A completely randomized design of experiment was carried out, where 15 treatments and a dimethyl sulfoxide negative control were evaluated: MOR-75, MOR-50, MOR-25, MOR-12.5, and MOR-6.25 mg/mL; AZA-75, AZA-50, AZA-25, AZA-12.5, and AZA-6.25 mg/mL; and thiabendazole (TBZ) TBZ-200, TBZ-100, TBZ-40, TBZ-20, TBZ-10 µg/mL. The extracts did not inhibit egg hatching capacity; however, we observed a motility decrease of up to 100% in L1 larvae. The extracts affected larval migration (P < 0.0020) compared with controls (dimethyl sulfoxide and TBZ), with migration rate inhibition above 65 %. Probit analysis showed that the median effective concentrations were 60.41 and 65.69 mg/mL for M. oleifera and A. indica, respectively. The in vitro results suggest that the water extract of both plants has an anthelmintic action against gastrointestinal nematode larvae.
Representaciones de estudiantes universitarios sobre el aprendizaje significativo y las condiciones que lo favorecen
Authors: Covarrubias Papahiu Patricia , Martínez Estrada Claudia Cecilia
Published: October 2023

El artículo analiza las representaciones y los significados que estudiantes universitarios asignan al aprendizaje y a las condiciones que lo promueven en el aula. Se presentan datos obtenidos mediante una metodología de corte cualitativa e interpretativa, analizados a partir de la teoría existente sobre el tema. Los datos confirman la importancia de considerar los factores motivacionales y afectivos de los estudiantes para el aprendizaje y la construcción del conocimiento en el aula. Entre los resultados más importantes, se destaca la preferencia de los estudiantes por las técnicas didácticas que permitan pensar, crear y participar activamente; las funciones que mayormente facilitan el aprendizaje son los recursos didácticos y la libertad otorgada por los profesores para trabajar y compartir experiencias; los atributos personales de los profesores que mayormente valoran los estudiantes son la apertura, la sencillez y el interés que demuestren por la disciplina que enseñan y por los propios estudiantes.
Formulation and Evaluation of Anti-Acne Gel: A Review
Authors: Sonkamble Mr. Sumedh N.
Published: October 2023

Abstract: Acne vulgaris is a long-term inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit that leads to the formation of inflammatory lesions, seborrhea(Scaly red skin), comedones(Blackheads and whiteheads), Papules(Pinheads), Nodules(Large papules) etc. Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis have been recognized as performing bacteria triggering inflammation in acne. Bacilis subtilis support to cause inflammation in acne. Natural remedies are more acceptable in the belief that they are suffering from fewer side effects than synthetic ones. Herbal formulations have a growing demand in the global market. This present research work aims to formulate and evaluate herbal antiacne gel containing ethanolic extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica), Garlic(Allium Sativum). The herbal antiacne gel was optimized by preparing 1 formulations (F1) using an extract of Neem, Garlic a combination of these two extracts. The formulation was evaluated for various parameters like Physical appearance, pH, Drug content, Spreadability, Extrudability, and Anti-acne activity assay against Bacilis subtilis. Amongst all the formulations studied, batch F3 was found optimum for all the parameters. all extracts i.e. ethanolic extract of Azadirachta indica, Allium Sativum in combination show potential effect against Acne vulgaris and also exert a synergistic effect on the bacteria
Deficiencia de hierro en enfermedad renal crónica
Authors: Ariza-Garcia Amaury , Cabeza Morales Marticela , Arnedo Arteaga Fernando , Salgado Montiel Luis Gabriel , Romero Rivera Hector , Bello Espinosa Ariel , Maza Villadiego Augusto
Published: October 2023

Contexto: la deficiencia de hierro es un trastorno frecuentemente observado en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica (ERC), sobre todo en estadios avanzados. Su presencia se asocia a una mayor morbilidad y mortalidad. La deficiencia de hierro puede ser absoluta o funcional. La deficiencia absoluta se refiere a una ausencia o una reducción de las reservas de hierro, mientras que la deficiencia funcional se define por la presencia de depósitos de hierro adecuados pero con una disponibilidad insuficiente de hierro para su incorporación en los precursores eritroides. Varios factores de riesgo contribuyen a la deficiencia absoluta y funcional de hierro en ERC, incluyendo pérdidas hemáticas, absorción alterada de hierro e inflamación crónica.
Objetivo: con esta revisión narrativa se pretende presentar las definiciones, los aspectos fisiopatológicos, los criterios diagnósticos y las medidas terapéuticas en el paciente con diagnóstico de ERC con deficiencia de hierro.
Metodología: se realizó una revisión no sistemática de la literatura en la base de datos PubMed, incluyendo además las guías internacionales más utilizadas que abordan el tema de deficiencia de hierro en ERC.
Resultados: se incluyeron un total de 30 referencias bibliográficas. La deficiencia de hierro puede ser absoluta o relativa y el déficit absoluto de hierro se produce con valores de ferritina < 100 mcg/l y saturación de transferrina (TSAT) < 20?%, mientras que la deficiencia funcional está en relación con niveles de ferritina > 100 mcg/l, pero con una TSAT < 20?%. El tratamiento del déficit absoluto consta de reposición de hierro oral o endovenoso y en pacientes que aún no reciben diálisis, se puede hacer una prueba terapéutica con hierro oral, de no haber respuesta se optará por hierro endovenoso, mientras que en pacientes que sí reciben diálisis, la medida ideal es el hierro endovenoso, preferiblemente en preparaciones que permitan esquemas de altas dosis y bajas frecuencias de administración. Las metas propuestas por las distintas guías presentan variaciones entre 500 y 700 mcg/l de ferritina.
Conclusiones: el déficit de hierro debe buscarse activamente en pacientes con ERC, ya que su presencia y la falta de intervención conlleva a un incremento en los desenlaces adversos. La terapia con hierro es el pilar del tratamiento y la elección del agente a utilizar dependerá de las características individuales del paciente y de la disponibilidad de las preparaciones de hierro oral o endovenoso.
A EXPERIÊNCIA DO DEPOIMENTO ESPECIAL A PARTIR DA PERSPECTIVA DE MENINAS ADOLESCENTES VÍTIMAS DE ABUSO SEXUAL
Authors: Ramos Michele da Silva , Antoni Clarissa De
Published: October 2023

Public policies have been developed to assist children and adolescents who are witnesses or victims of different types of abuse. Among them, the Protected Listening Law implemented in Brazil the special testimony (ST), which is a welcoming way of listening to victims in hearing and which aims to protect against re-victimization. This exploratory-descriptive qualitative research aimed to understand how adolescent girls who were victims of sexual abuse, who went through mental health care understood their experience of being heard by the ST. Seven adolescent girls aged 12 to 17 years participated in the study. Interviews and information from medical records were used for data collection. A thematic analysis of the findings was carried out and two themes were obtained: experience with the ST and #takethetip. The appreciation of the data identified that the girls had negative expectations about the ST and felt anxiety, fear and sadness before it occurred. After the beginning of the hearing, they became calmer and at the end, they felt relieved. Despite the discomfort of speaking, they understand that it is important, including encouraging other adolescents to participate in the ST. Finally, they indicate that it is not necessary to change how the ST is organized. It is understood, therefore, that the assistance of specialized technicians and the organization of the courtroom are related to the process of relieving the anxiety of the participants throughout the ST, since it is not necessary to change the way the ST is organized.