bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly stable Ni(ii)/Zn(ii)-CPs as multiresponsive luminescent sensors for detection of IO4−, 2,6-dichloro-4-nitrophenol and folic acid
Authors: Zhao Fang-Hua , Zhao Zi-Hao , Feng Rui , Li Yu-Shuo , Li Shu-Qi , Jing Zhi-Hong , Li Zhong-Lin
Published: June 2024

This work describes two Ni(ii)/Zn(ii)-CPs with 3D (4,5)-connected net for 1 and pcu net for 2, both can serve as multiresponsive luminescent sensors of  IO4−, 2,6-dichloro-4-nitrophenol and folic acid.
Resonance-induced anomalies in temperature-dependent Raman scattering of PdSe2
Authors: Abdul-Aziz Omar , Wolverson Daniel , Sayers Charles J. , Carpene Ettore , Parmigiani Fulvio , Hedayat Hamoon , van Loosdrecht Paul H. M.
Published: June 2024

Temperature dependent Raman spectroscopy combined with density functional theory calculations reveal anisotropic electron–phonon coupling in the low-symmetry transition metal dichalcogenide PdSe2.
Synthesis and physicochemical properties of visible-light-excited carbon dots: impact of sugar ring structure and surface chemistry
Authors: Kitthawee Watchara , Watthanaphanit Anyarat , Wattanavichean Nungnit
Published: June 2024

We aimed to enhance the fluorescence quantum yield of sugar-derived carbon dots along with tuning the excitation wavelength to the visible region via a surface modification method with simple acids.
A novel fixed‐time ZNN model and application to robot trajectory tracking
Authors: Wang Lei , Miao Peng
Published: June 2024

In order to achieve robot trajectory tracking in fixed‐time, a novel fixed‐time zeroing neural network model is designed. Initially, the inverse kinematic model of robot trajectory tracking is translated into a time‐varying quadratic programs problem. Subsequently, a novel fixed‐time zeroing neural network is proposed for solving the time‐varying quadratic programs problem. Furthermore, the fixed‐time stability of this model is rigorously established, and an upper bound of convergence time, irrespective of the initial point, is estimated. Finally, numerical simulation results underscore the efficacy of the proposed methodologies.
A Siamese network optimization using genetic algorithm for brain diseases
Authors: Saif Amal , Ghnemat Rawan , Abu Al‐Haija Qasem
Published: June 2024

The complex nature of human brain tissues is important in ensuring accurate diagnosis to save human lives. Research on early detection of brain diseases has gained significant prominence within medical intelligence using highly complex model architectures with only a single label that cannot be verified. This paper introduces an innovative approach to Siamese Network Genetic Algorithm (SN‐GA) leveraging Siamese contrastive learning for classifying brain images across diverse diseases. Our core architecture is a Bi‐Convolutional Neural Network (Bi‐CNN) optimized by a genetic algorithm to enhance brain image classification. Specifically, five widely recognized transfer learning‐based architectures, namely AlexNet, Efficient‐B0, VGG‐16, ResNet‐50, and Inception‐v3, have been incorporated to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed SN‐GA system. The performance of these models has been rigorously analyzed and compared using two distinct datasets: Brain tumors and Alzheimer's datasets. The experimental results robustly affirm the efficacy of the proposed Siamese model, yielding exceptional levels of accuracy, precision, and recall, all peaking at 97%. These findings underscore the potential and resilience of the optimized Siamese network in the context of brain disease classification, emphasizing its significance in advancing the field of medical imaging and diagnosis, with implications for early intervention and patient care.
Control Method for Up and Down Lines of Transmission Line Operation Robots
Authors: Zhu Wenji , Ban Weihua , Zou Lin , Liu Xu
Published: June 2024

The current transmission line robot up and down the line relies on manual lifting, and this method is labor-intensive, dangerous, and requires the assistance of many people. To address this problem, the paper proposes a control method based on UAV-assisted transmission line power line operation robot up and down the line. Aiming at the characteristics of transmission lines, in order to solve the problem of uneven posture and even side-turning when the robot is on line, the robot adopts the way of lifting with four traction ropes driven by the reel, and analyzes the tilting situation that the robot may encounter when it is on line, and puts forward a BP fuzzy neural network PID-based leveling control method, which compares the rapidity and stability of the leveling of the different control methods in the case of perturbation, and solves the problem of uneven posture and side-turning of the robot when it is on line. the problem of uneven attitude. Finally, a robot lifting attitude leveling experiment is carried out in a simulated field to prove the feasibility of the proposed automatic robot up and down line method in practical applications.
Research on Power Investment and Expansion Planning Considering Coal-fired Power Capacity and Electricity Price in Market-Driven Environment
Authors: Mengxuan Lv , Yufang Jia
Published: June 2024

The market-oriented environment and the shift away from the coal-fired power are inevitable trends in the future development of electric power energy. Based on this, this article establishes a dual-level model for power investment expansion planning with wind power system in an oligopoly competitive electricity market. In the upper-level model, power generation companies make investment decisions and formulate their bidding strategies in market transactions, while the lower-level model simulates the day-ahead market clearing process under the centralized bidding and trading mode. To encourage the transition from coal-fired power plants, a model for expected annual operating revenue of coal-fired power companies under a dual pricing system is proposed, and the conditional value-at-risk (CVaR) is used to measure the investment risk brought by the uncertainty of competitors in the investment planning game for power generation companies. The numerical results verify the effectiveness of the proposed model and method.
Effects of Conditioning Contractions on Lower-Body Explosive Force
Post-Static Stretching
Authors: Li Ming , Kim Youngsuk , Guo Weishuai , Fan Penglei , Wang Junsig , Kim Sukwon
Published: June 2024

The present study assessed the impacts of two distinct protocols, static
stretching (StS, 4 sets of 30 seconds) and static stretching combined with
conditioning contractions (10 repetitive drop jumps) (SC), on neuromuscular
response and rate of force development (RFD) in the lower limbs during squat
jumps (SJs) at varying initial knee-joint angles (60°,90°,120°). Twelve
participants completed three randomized experimental trials (no intervention,
StS intervention, and SC intervention). Except for the intervention segments,
each trial included standardized warm-ups and SJs at three different angles.
Data were collected using a 3-dimensional injury motion capture system, an
electromyography (EMG) recording system, and a force platform. The collected EMG
data were subjected to amplitude calculations, while force-time data were used
for RFD computation. Neither StS nor SC significantly impacted the average or
peak EMG amplitudes of the five muscles examined (p>0.05). However, at an
initial knee-joint angle of 120°, the StS group demonstrated significantly lower
RFD values at three distinct phases (0–50 ms, 50–100 ms, and 0–peakforce)
compared to those seen in the SC and control groups (p<0.05). For activities
starting with a knee-joint angle of 120°, it is recommended to either avoid StS
or combine it with ten repetitive drop jumps to mitigate any potential negative
impact on explosiveness.
Neurological Complications of Cannabinoids
Authors: Humayun Mariyam , Suarez Jose I. , Shah Vishank A.
Published: June 2024

Cannabinoid use, particularly for recreational purposes, is increasing exponentially across all age groups, especially in younger populations, due to its perceived low risk and legalization. While cannabinoids may be largely considered as safe, there is mounting evidence of increased risk of systemic and neurological complications through their interaction with the poorly understood endocannabinoid receptor network within the central nervous system and other organ systems. Acute cannabinoid exposure can cause neuropsychiatric symptoms in addition to altering cerebral blood flow, leading to cerebrovascular complications such as ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). Chronic use, particularly among adolescents, may be associated with increased risk of long-term cognitive deficits, schizophrenia, and other neuropsychiatric effects. Synthetic cannabinoids have increased potency, with reports of causing profound neurological complications including coma, seizures, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, and RCVS. Despite increasing evidence, the quality of literature describing neurologic complications with cannabinoids remains limited to case series and retrospective cohort studies, with significant confounding factors such as concomitant use of other illicit drugs, limiting interpretation. In this review, we summarize the effect of cannabinoids on the neurologic system and associated neurological complications.
The Arterial System of the Fasciocutaneous Deltoid Flap Pedicle on 320-Detector Row Computed Tomography and Clinical Application in the Foot and Hand
Authors: Ngoc-Huyen Nguyen , The-Hoang Nguyen , Lam Khanh , Quang-Vinh Nguyen , Staudenmaier Rainer
Published: June 2024

Background Fasciocutaneous free deltoid flaps are used to reconstruct hand, foot, and maxillofacial defects. Although anatomical studies of this flap pedicle have been performed on cadavers, there are no reports on the use of 320-detector row computed tomography angiography (CTA-320) to investigate the deltoid flap pedicle in living humans. This study aimed to investigate the arterial characteristics of the deltoid flap pedicle using the CTA-320 system in living humans.

Methods Twenty-seven adult Vietnamese patients with 54 healthy deltoid regions underwent CTA-320 to investigate arterial blood supply before clinical free-flap transfer. Two- and three-dimensional reconstruction images of the arterial pedicle were visualized, and clinical reconstruction results were evaluated.

Results The cutaneous vessel branches of the deltoid flap were separated from the posterior circumflex humeral artery (PCHA) and originated from the axillary (77.78%), subscapular (12.96%), and brachial (9.26%) arteries. The PCHA penetrated the quadrangular space in 90.74% of patients. The cutaneous arterial branch was present in the deltoid-triceps groove in 100% of patients. The average diameter and length of the PCHA were 3.38 ± 0.58 and 43.08 ± 6.60 mm, respectively. The average diameter and length of the flap cutaneous branch were 1.49 ± 0.28 and 44.57 ± 4.83 mm, respectively. The findings of CTA-320 were aligned with the intraoperative clinical findings well. All deltoid flaps were successfully free-transferred with good outcomes.

Conclusion The CTA-320 is a practical and effective method for investigating deltoid flap pedicles. It enables accurate flap design and harvesting of flaps, thereby enhancing the clinical success of free-flap transfer.
Effect of Beta-Blocker Consumption on the Severity and Extension of Perfusion Defects in Dipyridamole Myocardial Perfusion Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography
Authors: Shahlaee Shirin , Falsoleiman Homa , Daloee Mahdi Hasanzade , Gholoobi Arash , Divband Ghasem Ali , Raeisi Nasrin , Dabbagh Kakhki Vahid Reza
Published: June 2024

Background Regarding the less-known effects of beta-blocker consumption on the diagnostic value of the myocardial perfusion scan with dipyridamole stress in coronary artery disease (CAD), we aimed to compare the findings of the scans done on the beta-blocker consumption course and after discontinuation of this medications.

Materials and Methods Thirty patients with probably CAD and abnormal myocardial perfusion scans (presence of reversible defect), who had been treated with beta-blockers for at least 3 months, were studied. Dipyridamole stress phase of myocardial perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) was performed two times with an interval of about 1 week, once after discontinuation of all antianginal and anti-ischemic medications, statins, and beta-blockers for 72 hours prior to the study, and again after discontinuation of all these medications except for beta-blockers. Imaging was done with the same protocol, radiopharmaceutical dose, and imaging parameters. Summed stress score (SSS), summed stress rest, and summed difference scores (SDS), total perfusion deficit (TPD), severity, and extension of myocardial perfusion defects in three coronary artery territories were analyzed, using quantitative perfusion SPECT software.

Results Most variables such as SSS, SDS, TPD, severity, and extension of defects showed a significant difference between the two conditions including beta-blocker consumption and after discontinuing beta-blocker consumption before stress imaging (p < 0.05). Moreover, in patients on treatment with metoprolol, all studied factors including SSS, SDS, TPD, severity, and extension of perfusion defects were significantly reduced when patients consumed beta-blockers before SPECT evaluation (p < 0.05).

Conclusion Beta-blocker consumption can lead to a decrease in the severity and extent of myocardial perfusion defects and therefore probably a decrease in the sensitivity of myocardial scans. Discontinuation of beta-blocker prior to the dipyridamole myocardial perfusion scan can improve diagnostic accuracy.
British politics symposium on Ben Clift (2022) the OBR and the politics of technocratic economic governance (Oxford University Press)
Authors: James Scott
Published: June 2024

This contribution to the symposium situates Clift’s (The office of budget responsibility and the politics of technocratic economic governance, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2023a) book in wider scholarship on ‘epistemic politics’ in comparative and international political economy. I argue that the book serves to foreground the power and politics of economic knowledge and technocratic expertise in three ways: (1) by unpacking the ‘everyday’ life of ideas as grounded in material processes of knowledge production; (2) lifting the veil on the ‘model world’ of economic policy by analysing the epistemological foundations of technocracy; and (3) deconstructing the politics of crisis by revealing the OBR’s critical role in interpreting and narrating developments like Brexit and Covid. The rest of the paper is devoted to reflecting on the core theme of the book—technocratic economic governance—focussed on three related issues: problematising technocracy and technocratic expertise; the dynamics of learning and accountability; and the importance of historicising economic governance since 2010.
A way to identify whether a DFT gap is from right reasons or error cancellations: The case of copper chalcogenides
Authors: Shen Jiale , Liu Haitao , Li Yuanchang
Published: June 2024

Gap opening remains elusive in copper chalcogenides (Cu2X, X = S, Se, and Te), not least because Hubbard + U, hybrid functional, and GW methods have also failed. In this work, we elucidate that their failure originates from a severe underestimation of the 4s–3d orbital splitting of the Cu atom, which leads to a band-order inversion in the presence of an anionic crystal field. As a result, the Fermi energy is pinned due to symmetry, yielding an invariant zero gap. Utilizing the hybrid pseudopotentials to correct the underestimation on the atomic side opens up gaps of experimental magnitude in Cu2X, suggesting their predominantly electronic nature. Our work not only clarifies the debate about the Cu2X gap but also provides a way to identify which of the different methods really captures the physical essence and which is the result of error cancellation.
Effect of molecular permanent dipole moment on guest aggregation and exciton quenching in phosphorescent organic light emitting diodes
Authors: Niyonkuru Paul , Bennett Roland A. , Zachman Michael J. , Zimmerman Jeramy D.
Published: June 2024

This study explores the effect of molecular permanent dipole moment (PDM) on aggregation of guest molecules in phosphorescent host–guest organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Through a combination of photoluminescence measurements, high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy analysis, and an Ising model based physical vapor-deposition simulation, we show that higher PDM of tris[2-phenylpyridinato-C2,N]iridium(III) guest can actually lead to a reduced aggregation relative to tris[bis[2-(2-pyridinyl-N)phenyl-C] (acetylacetonato)iridium(III) when doped into a non-polar host 1,3,5-tris(carbazol-9-yl)benzene. This study further explores the effect of host polarity by using a polar host 3′,5′-di(carbazol-9-yl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3,5-dicarbonitrile, and it is shown that the polar host leads to reduced guest aggregation. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of molecular PDM on OLED material efficiency and stability, providing insights for optimizing phosphorescent OLED materials.
A compact smiley shaped flexible patch antenna for ISM band applications
Authors: Julius Fusic S. , Sugumari T. , Giri Jayant , Sitharthan R. , Badawy Ahmed Said , Ahmad Naim , Sathish T.
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer is a medical condition characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the breast tissue. Breast cancer can originate from various parts of the breast, and methods such as Breast ultrasound, Diagnostic mammogram, Breast magnetic resonance imaging, and Biopsy are currently used for its diagnosis. However, these methods have certain limitations, and their size can be a hindrance. To overcome this, low-power, flexible antennas can be designed for bio-communication between medical equipment and external instrumentation. Flexible and wearable antennas have advantages such as affordability, ease of fabrication, and high gain. In this article, a microstrip patch antenna operating at 2.45 GHz and made of polyamide material is designed using High Frequency Structure Simulator software. The simulation results show the patch antenna has a gain of 1, −14.81 dB return loss at 2.45 GHz based on |S11| ≤ −10 dB. The directive radiation pattern with axial ratio of 63.39 dB and voltage standing wave ratio ≤3. Furthermore, the hardware development of proposed antenna with polyamide substrate provides the resonance frequency nearing to simulation results as 2.318 GHz with return loss of −28.19 dB. Based on mathematical analysis, simulation and hardware results, the proposed antenna is a superior option for breast cancer detection.
Two-photon laser-induced fluorescence study of the CO B 1Σ+ (v′ = 0) state in a 4850 K plasma plume: Modified molecular constants, evidence of predissociation, and J′-dependent photoionization
Authors: Murray John S. , Clemens Noel T.
Published: June 2024

We report the two-photon absorption laser-induced fluorescence rotational spectrum of the CO B 1Σ+ ← X 1Σ+ Hopfield–Birge system (v′ = 0, v″ = 0) Q-branch in an ∼4850 K, atmospheric pressure plasma torch plume at thermal equilibrium in both the quenching-dominated (low laser intensity) and photoionization-dominated (high laser intensity) regimes. We provide a detailed analysis of the photophysics in these two regimes using a rate equation approach and propose modeling considerations for them as well. In the experimental spectra, distinct rotational transitions up to J″ = 83 are observed, allowing analysis over a very large range of rotational states. Evidence of predissociation is observed for J′ ≥ 64 and is likely due to the interaction with the D′1Σ+ electronic state, which has been proposed in the literature but never observed in the v′ = 0 state. The line positions of higher rotational states show disagreement with line positions calculated from molecular constants in the available literature, suggesting the need for modifications to the constants, which are reported here. A shift in the B 1Σ+ ← X 1Σ+ absorption spectrum toward higher two-photon energy as a result of the second-order Stark shift was observed in the photoionization-dominated spectrum, and the second-order Stark shift cross section was estimated to be 7 ± 3 × 10−18 cm2. The mean photoionization cross section of the excited upper state was inferred by comparing the line broadening of the two spectra and was estimated to be 11 ± 7 × 10−18 cm2. In addition, weak J′-dependent variations of the photoionization cross section were observed and are reported here.
Managing temperature in open quantum systems strongly coupled with structured environments
Authors: Le Dé Brieuc , Jaouadi Amine , Mangaud Etienne , Chin Alex W. , Desouter-Lecomte Michèle
Published: June 2024

In non-perturbative non-Markovian open quantum systems, reaching either low temperatures with the hierarchical equations of motion (HEOM) or high temperatures with the Thermalized Time Evolving Density Operator with Orthogonal Polynomials Algorithm (T-TEDOPA) formalism in Hilbert space remains challenging. We compare different ways of modeling the environment. Sampling the Fourier transform of the bath correlation function, also called temperature dependent spectral density, proves to be very effective. T-TEDOPA [Tamascelli et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 123, 090402 (2019)] uses a linear chain of oscillators with positive and negative frequencies, while HEOM is based on the complex poles of an optimized rational decomposition of the temperature dependent spectral density [Xu et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 230601 (2022)]. Resorting to the poles of the temperature independent spectral density and of the Bose function separately is an alternative when the problem due to the huge number of Bose poles at low temperatures is circumvented. Two examples illustrate the effectiveness of the HEOM and T-TEDOPA approaches: a benchmark pure dephasing case and a two-bath model simulating the dynamics of excited electronic states coupled through a conical intersection. We show the efficiency of T-TEDOPA to simulate dynamics at a finite temperature by using either continuous spectral densities or only all the intramolecular oscillators of a linear vibronic model calibrated from ab initio data of a phenylene ethynylene dimer.
Excessive STAU1 condensate drives mTOR translation and autophagy dysfunction in neurodegeneration
Authors: Zhao Ruiqian , Huang Shijing , Li Jingyu , Gu Aihong , Fu Minjie , Hua Wei , Mao Ying , Lei Qun-Ying , Lu Boxun , Wen Wenyu
Published: June 2024

The double-stranded RNA-binding protein Staufen1 (STAU1) regulates a variety of physiological and pathological events via mediating RNA metabolism. STAU1 overabundance was observed in tissues from mouse models and fibroblasts from patients with neurodegenerative diseases, accompanied by enhanced mTOR signaling and impaired autophagic flux, while the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we find that endogenous STAU1 forms dynamic cytoplasmic condensate in normal and tumor cell lines, as well as in mouse Huntington’s disease knockin striatal cells. STAU1 condensate recruits target mRNA MTOR at its 5′UTR and promotes its translation both in vitro and in vivo, and thus enhanced formation of STAU1 condensate leads to mTOR hyperactivation and autophagy–lysosome dysfunction. Interference of STAU1 condensate normalizes mTOR levels, ameliorates autophagy–lysosome function, and reduces aggregation of pathological proteins in cellular models of neurodegenerative diseases. These findings highlight the importance of balanced phase separation in physiological processes, suggesting that modulating STAU1 condensate may be a strategy to mitigate the progression of neurodegenerative diseases with STAU1 overabundance.
The Morse index theorem for mechanical systems with reflections
Authors: Wunsch Jared , Yang Mengxuan , Zou Yuzhou
Published: June 2024

We prove a Morse index theorem for action functionals on paths that are allowed to reflect at a hypersurface (either in the interior or at the boundary of a manifold). Both fixed and periodic boundary conditions are treated.
How to levitate a lightbulb
Authors: Williams Hollis
Published: June 2024

There exist many magnetic levitation toys, most of which use spin-stabilised levitation. A more recent demonstration features a levitating lightbulb which is made to float in the air and light up by magnetic forces. We study the workings of the lightbulb and explain how it operates via a different type of levitation known as electrodynamic suspension. We also examine the stability of the device, showing that levitation can be maintained even if the bulb is prevented from rotating.
Quantum multicast based on joint remote state preparation
Authors: Zhang Zhihua , Shen Beining , Zhang Hanchen , Qiu Zhipeng
Published: June 2024

Effective propagation of information among multiple users is the purpose of realizing large-scale quantum communication networks. In this paper, multicast protocols for any single, two and three qubits with real amplitude and complex phase information are presented. They were realized using a composite of Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger states as shared channels. Joint remote state preparation was the main method for completing quantum multicast. At the same time, quantum state tomography of the schemes was carried out on the IBM Quantum platform. The obtained states were compared with the target states by fidelity. The analysis of communication efficiency and noise effects shows that our protocol has advantages in the case of complex coefficients.
Ground states and first radial excitations of vector tetraquark states with explicit P-waves via QCD sum rules*
Authors: Wang 王 Zhi-Gang 志刚
Published: June 2024

In this study, we chose the diquark-antidiquark type four-quark currents with an explicit P-wave between the diquark and antidiquark pairs to study the ground states and first radial excitations of the hidden-charm tetraquark states with quantum numbers

. We also obtained the lowest vector tetraquark masses and made possible assignments of the existing

states. There indeed exists a hidden-charm tetraquark state with

at an energy of approximately 4.75 GeV as the first radial excitation that accounts for the BESIII data.
Unpacking satellite pixels: UAVs reveal fine-scale drivers of land surface phenology in a winter rainfall shrubland
Authors: van Blerk J J , Slingsby J A , West A G
Published: June 2024

Land surface phenology (LSP) can reveal important connections between vegetation dynamics and climate but remains poorly understood in evergreen winter-rainfall shrublands globally. Field-based studies have indicated diverse plant functional strategies in shrublands, but further work is required to link LSP to vegetation functional composition in these regions. We analysed time-series of the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) in fynbos shrublands of South Africa using multi-spectral imagery from satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). We investigated the climate drivers of seasonal vegetative phenology and long-term NDVI trends at multiple spatial scales ranging from the landscape to individual species. At coarse spatial resolutions, NDVI time-series indicated rainfall-driven vegetation dynamics in fynbos, both at inter and intra-annual time scales. However, high-resolution time-series from UAVs exposed an underlying divergence in vegetative phenology and long-term NDVI trends between shallow and deep-rooted growth forms. Phenophases and NDVI trends of isolated, deep-rooted, overstory shrubs were decoupled from rainfall relative to dense overstory patches and shallow-rooted understory growth forms. Variations in growth form phenology were not detected at coarse spatial scales due to scaling and competitive effects based on the functional composition of the vegetation.
Phase Change Materials (PCM) for a Zero-carbon Food Preservation Technology in Remote Areas
Authors: Joseph Sekhar S , Saif Al Maqbali Fahad , Aslam Jamal
Published: June 2024

Phase Change Materials (PCM) are thermal storage materials that are capable of storing renewable energy and improve the performance of a solar cooling system. Since solar power is not consistent everywhere and the operating conditions of cooling systems are varying, a specific study is needed to implement this principle for a particular location. This research work aims at developing small-scale solar domestic refrigerator and freezer systems to work with PCMs and solar energy. The software, System Advisor Model is used to select the PV system for the location. An experimental setup of a 210-litre refrigerator and a 250-litre chest freezer with PCM cladding is used. The quantity of low-temperature PCM was varied, and the energy efficiency of the system, temperature distribution inside the refrigerated space, and on-off cycles of the compressor were studied to ensure its technical feasibility. The results from the study showed that the use of PCM could run the system during non-sunshine hours with an 8-15% reduction in energy consumption. The pulldown time was promising, and the off-cycle time of the compressor was long, which ensures that the system can work at the desired temperature during the off-sunshine hours. The temperature distribution inside the freezer and food compartments of the refrigerator for various quantities of PCM was found to be from -14 to -16°C and from 1 to 8°C, respectively. Moreover, the calculated total equivalent warming impact was 15-60% lower than the conventional system. A detailed study on the economic benefits and risk analysis can be conducted to mature the technology
Information system for production process of a ferry ro-ro ship hull block
Authors: Firmansyah M R , Asri S , Fachruddin F , Mustafa W , Clausthaldi F R , Putra M R A , Azzahra A N
Published: June 2024

Ship production process involves a complex flow of information between divisions in the shipyard. The flow of information is vital because it determines whether the ship production process is carried out according to the ship-building master schedule. In the era of industrial technology 4.0, the flow of information must be supported by a digital information system. Unfortunately, information handling is still manually conducted, especially in small domestic shipyards. Hence, it takes time to transfer and notify any information changes from one division to another. As a consequence, it potentially delays the completion of the ship construction. A digital information system for the ship production process will be beneficial, especially for small domestic shipyards, to stream information on the ship production processes. Preliminary research has been carried out to support the realization of a digital information system for ship production. This research was conducted to develop the system by identifying and formulating any information in the ship production process in a shipyard. Based on the finding, an information system for the ship production process was designed. The result of this research is the design of an information system for the production process of a ship hull block in a small domestic shipyard.
Optimization And Implementation of Waste Management Planning on Indonesian Flag Non-Convention Ships Sailing in Indonesian Waters
Authors: Sukirno  , Purnomo J
Published: June 2024

Waste is one of the objects of concern on ships, especially in terms of its storage and disposal, where more attention must be given to all ships with a gross tonnage of one hundred or more. Every ship certified to carry fifteen people or more, and every fixed or floating platform must have a waste management planning on ship, which includes written procedures for minimizing, collecting, storing, processing and disposing of waste including the use of equipment on the ship. In discussing this material, the researchers analyze the procedures and handling of waste disposal on Indonesian-flagged non-conventional ships. The method used in this research was the case research method. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews and library research methods. The research results show that on Indonesian-flagged non-conventional ships entering the Port of Makassar, there was still waste thrown into the sea, especially by crew members who did not comply with the waste management procedures regulated in The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships Annex V. Ships - Non-conventional ships had not handled waste in accordance with The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships 73/78 regulations due to various factors, one of which is that there is no equipment for handling waste in the ship and the lack of understanding of ship crew members in protecting the maritime environment. It is recommended that the company supervise the handling of waste in the ship and on the other hand, the port management must prepare waste storage facilities.
Nutrient Removal Efficiencies in a Bioretention Cell Using Pre-Treated Coconut By-Product as Carbon Source
Authors: Dinno Nur Dianna , Goh Hui Weng , Akil Hazizan Md. , Azizan Nor Ariza , Woon Khee Ling , Chang Chun Kiat
Published: June 2024

In this research, the appropriateness of alkali pre-treatment on coconut by-products was managed by exposing coconut husk and shell to 2M NaOH. The powdered samples were analysed for morphology observation, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), and water quality tests. Weakening the hemicellulose structure resulted from subjecting the coconut shell to alkali pre-treatment shown in the morphology observation. Furthermore, the FTIR analysis exhibited the presence of O-H stretch in all pre-treated samples representing an indication for occurring the lignin breakdown, while an absence of the C=O functional group was shown in both additive samples after their subjection to alkali pre-treatment. In PSA analysis, the particles of all samples were found finer than the particle size distribution standards, in which the smallest D50 was obtained for the treated coconut shell (TCS), followed by untreated coconut shell (UCS), untreated coconut husk (UCH), and treated coconut husk (TCH). Among all the powdered samples (TCS, UCS, UCH, and TCH) analysed in this study, only TCH values met the ranges provided and recommended by the Urban Stormwater Management Manual for Malaysia (MSMA) and the Australian Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population, and Communities (DSEWPC). Meanwhile, a poor removal rate for total suspended solids (TSS) was attained due to the contribution of TSS by the filter media which caused the TSS rates to surpass the inlet values. Additionally, the presence of a high concentration of total phosphorous (TP) in all the tested samples indicated their capabilities to provide PO43 in the bioretention cell, which is a vital nutrient for the plant’s growth. In contrast, Ammoniacal Nitrogen (AN) with a concentration rate as low as 4 mg/L was observed throughout the test periods which showed a significant reduction compared to the rate of AN at the inlet samples ranged between 5.2 and 11.4 mg/L. The findings indicated that coconut by-products, when subjected to an alkali pre-treatment process, are appropriate for incorporation as additives in bioretention filter media.
Homological dimensions of the Jacobson radical
Authors: Chen Xiao-Wu , Iyengar Srikanth , Marczinzik René
Published: June 2024

This work presents results on the finiteness, and on the symmetry properties, of various homological dimensions associated to the Jacobson radical and its higher syzygies, of a semiperfect ring.
Effective cone of the blowup of the symmetric product of a curve
Authors: Laface Antonio , Ugaglia Luca
Published: June 2024

Let

C
C

be a smooth curve of genus

g
≥
1

g \geq 1

and let

C

(
2
)

C^{(2)}

be its second symmetric product. In this note we prove that if

C
C

is very general, then the blowup of

C

(
2
)

C^{(2)}

at a very general point has nonpolyhedral pseudo-effective cone. The strategy is to consider first the case of hyperelliptic curves and then to show that having polyhedral pseudo-effective cone is a closed property for families of surfaces.
A Democratic Approach to Social Learning and Conflicting Values
Authors: Fesmire Steven
Published: June 2024

This chapter differentiates and advances a general pragmatist approach to ethics, taking environmental problems as test cases. The chapter includes a study of pragmatic pluralism as a perspective on climate ethics, inspired in part by philosopher Andrew Light’s work on climate diplomacy and by Bryan Norton’s environmental pragmatism. After explaining the ends-means continuum to clarify what makes an approach to moral intelligence “pragmatic,” the chapter turns to Isaiah Berlin’s “The Hedgehog and the Fox” for metaphors to understand Dewey’s democratic approach to social learning amid conflicting values. In opposition to elite technocratic rule in the vein of Walter Lippmann’s The Phantom Public, Dewey warned against overreliance on expert-driven decisions, and where practicable he advocated widening participatory processes that enlist communities in learning. His aim was to foster a “planning society,” rather than a planned society, that consults stakeholders, uncovers troubles, and organizes the expertise to deal with those troubles.
BD SurePath Direct to Slide (DTS) cervical cytology: Migrating the benefits of liquid-based cytology to low-resource settings
Authors: Malinowski Douglas P , Callaghan Ryan , Whitehead Clark , Nelson Romana , Allen Lisa , Purnell Dondrea , Taylor Adriann , Morel Didier , Dhewar Aisha , Chai-Hong Vanessa Soh , Giap-Hean Goh , Tan Soo-Yong , Tapas Sagar , Andrews Jeffrey
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The benefits of liquid-based cytology (LBC) in routine cervical cancer screening are often associated with the availability of instrumented platforms and economic considerations. A low-cost alternative to LBC in low-volume settings remains an unmet need.

Methods

A multisite evaluation of the BD SurePath (SurePath) LBC Direct to Slide (DTS) method was conducted. The DTS preparations were evaluated across 3 sites. Cytology features for DTS preparation included predetermined thresholds for total cellularity, cell distribution, cellular preservation, and stain quality. Rare event detection was evaluated using SiHa cells spiked into pools from negative cytology specimens. Concordance between Bethesda classification results was evaluated for SurePath LBC and DTS methods using routinely collected SurePath specimens in a split-sample study design.

Results

The DTS specimens met criteria for total cellularity, cell distribution, cellular preservation, and stain quality in more than 98% of all cases. Rare event detection was observed with an average detection of 5 SiHa cells per 2 mL of specimen. Concordant cervical cytology classifications were observed between SurePath LBC and DTS methods.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that the DTS process is suitable for routine cervical cytology evaluation. The procedure is reproducible and detected abnormal cervical cells in concordance with standard SurePath LBC preparation.
Efficacy and Safety of RelabotulinumtoxinA, a New Ready-to-Use Liquid Formulation Botulinum Toxin: Results From the READY-1 Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Trial in Glabellar Lines
Authors: Shridharani Sachin M , Moradi Amir , Donofrio Lisa , Gold Michael H , Biesman Brian , Chiang Melissa , George Rosalyn , Polder Kristel , Solish Nowell , Schwarcz  , Lin Xiaoming , Axén Eva , Prygova Inna
Published: June 2024

Background

RelabotulinumtoxinA (RelaBoNT-A, Galderma, Uppsala, Sweden) is an innovative, ready-to-use liquid botulinum toxin A, produced with PEARL (precipitation-free extraction and activity-preserving refined liquid) manufacturing technology, which yields a potent, complex-free formulation.

Objectives

In the READY-1 study, efficacy and safety outcomes following a single RelaBoNT-A treatment for glabellar line correction were examined.

Methods

Adults with moderate to severe glabellar lines received RelaBoNT-A (50 U) or placebo in a 3:1 randomized, 6-month, phase 3, multicenter, double-blind study. Primary endpoints (examined at Month 1, maximum frown) comprised the composite ≥2-grade response, defined as ≥2-grades improvement from baseline on concurrent investigator (glabellar line investigator live assessment; GL-ILA) and participant (glabellar line subject live assessment; GL-SLA) severity scales (US endpoint), and the investigator-reported responder rate for participants scored as 0 (none) or 1 (mild) (GL-ILA scale only; EU endpoint). Participant satisfaction and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were reported.

Results

Overall, 297 adults were randomized and treated. Month 1 composite ≥2-grade responder rate was 82.9% (RelaBoNT-A, n = 199) vs 0% (placebo, n = 67; P < .001). Month 1 investigator-reported none or mild responder rate was 96.3% (RelaBoNT-A) vs 4.5% (placebo; P < .001). GL-ILA scores remained higher with RelaBoNT-A (23.6% [none or mild]; 58.1% [≥1-grade improvement]) vs placebo (1.5%; 10.4%, respectively) through Month 6 (P < .001). In the Kaplan-Meier analysis, 75% still showed GL-ILA and GL-SLA improvements from baseline at 169 days (end of study). Participants reported onset of effect from Day 1 (39%) and satisfaction with natural-looking results (96.8%; Month 1). RelaBoNT-A–related TEAEs were low (3.6%) and typically mild.

Conclusions

A single RelaBoNT-A treatment was effective and demonstrated a favorable safety profile. RelaBoNT-A provided significant improvements in glabellar line severity, high satisfaction, rapid onset, and enduring effectiveness throughout the 6-month study period.

Level of Evidence: 1
Inflammasomes: emerging therapeutic targets in hidradenitis suppurativa?
Authors: Campbell Ciara , Mayatra Jay M , Neve Ashish J , Fletcher Jean M , Johnston Daniel G W
Published: June 2024

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by recurrent inflammatory lesions, which affect skin and hair follicles in intertriginous areas. HS has a multifactorial aetiology resulting in barrier dysfunction associated with aberrant immune activation. There is increased evidence for the role of inflammasomes in the pathophysiology of inflammatory skin diseases, including HS. Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes activated following exposure to danger signals, including microbial ligands and components of damaged host cells. Inflammasome activation induces many signalling cascades and subsequent cleavage of proinflammatory cytokines – most notably interleukin (IL)-1β – which have a role in HS pathogenesis. Limited immunotherapies are approved for treating moderate-to-severe HS, with variable response rates influenced by disease heterogeneity. Inflammasomes represent attractive targets to suppress multiple inflammatory pathways in HS, including IL-1β and IL-17. This review aims to summarize the role of inflammasomes in HS and to evaluate evidence for inflammasomes as therapeutic targets for HS treatment.
Beta-adrenergic stimulation promotes an endoplasmic reticulum stress-dependent inflammatory program in salivary gland epithelial cells
Authors: Moustaka Kalliopi , Stergiopoulos Athanasios , Tenta Roxane , Havaki Sophia , Katsiougiannis Stergios , Skopouli Fotini N
Published: June 2024

The effect of beta-adrenergic stimulation on human labial minor salivary gland epithelial cells (LMSGEC) on IL-6 production and its dependency on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were investigated. Primary LMSGEC from Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) patients and controls in culture were stimulated with epinephrine and IL-6 expression was evaluated by qPCR and ELISA. The expression of β-ARs in cultured LMSGEC was tested by qPCR, while adrenoceptors and cAMP levels were examined in LMSGs by immunofluorescence. ER evaluation was performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ER stress by western blot. Epinephrine-induced IL-6 production by cultured LMSGEC was evaluated after alleviation of the ER stress by applying tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) and silencing of PKR-like ER kinase (PERK) and activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) RNAs. Expression of IL-6 by LMSGEC was upregulated after β-adrenergic stimulation, while the silencing of adrenoreceptors downregulated IL-6. The amelioration of ER stress, as well as the silencing of PERK/ATF4, prevented epinephrine-induced upregulation of IL-6. Adrenergic stimulation led to higher and sustained IL-6 levels secreted by LMSGEC of SS patients compared to controls. Adrenergic signaling was endogenously enhanced in LMSGEC of SS patients (expression of β-ARs in situ, intracellular cAMP in cultured LMSGEC). In parallel, SS-LMSGEC expressed dilated ER (TEM) and higher levels of GRP78/BiP. PERK/ATF4 pathway of the ER stress emerged as a considerable mediator of adrenergic stimulation for IL-6 production by the LMSGEC. An enhanced endogenous adrenergic activation and a stressed ER observed in SS-LMSGEC may contribute to a sustained IL-6 production by these cells after adrenergic stimulation.
Sea butterflies in a pickle: reliable biomarkers and seasonal sensitivity of Limacina retroversa to ocean acidification in the Gulf of Maine
Authors: Maas Amy E , Lawson Gareth L , Bergan Alexander J , Wang Zhaohui Aleck , Tarrant Ann M
Published: June 2024

The passive dissolution of anthropogenically produced CO2 into the ocean system is reducing ocean pH and changing a suite of chemical equilibria, with negative consequences for some marine organisms, in particular those that bear calcium carbonate shells. Although our monitoring of these chemical changes has improved, we have not developed effective tools to translate observations, which are typically of the pH and carbonate saturation state, into ecologically relevant predictions of biological risks. One potential solution is to develop bioindicators: biological variables with a clear relationship to environmental risk factors that can be used for assessment and management. Thecosomatous pteropods are a group of pelagic shelled marine gastropods, whose biological responses to CO2 have been suggested as potential bioindicators of ocean acidification owing to their sensitivity to acidification in both the laboratory and the natural environment. Using five CO2 exposure experiments, occurring across four seasons and running for up to 15 days, we describe a consistent relationship between saturation state, shell transparency and duration of exposure, as well as identify a suite of genes that could be used for biological monitoring with further study. We clarify variations in thecosome responses due to seasonality, resolving prior uncertainties and demonstrating the range of their phenotypic plasticity. These biomarkers of acidification stress can be implemented into ecosystem models and monitoring programmes in regions where pteropods are found, whilst the approach will serve as an example for other regions on how to bridge the gap between point-based chemical monitoring and biologically relevant assessments of ecosystem health.