bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting Volatility of SOFIX Index with GARCH Models
Authors: Petkov Plamen , Shopova Margarita , Varbanov Tihomir , Ovchinnikov Evgeni , Lalev Angelin
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates five different GARCH models (GARCH, EGARCH, IGARCH, Component GARCH (CGARCH) and GJR-GARCH) along with six distributions (Normal, Student’s t, GED and their skewed forms), which are used to forecast the volatility for the Bulgarian Stock index SOFIX. We use a GARCH model to predict how much time it will take, after the latest crisis, for the SOFIX index to reach its historical peak once again. The empirical data covers the period between the years 2000 and 2024, including the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose is to answer which of the five models is the best at forecasting the volatility of SOFIX and which distribution is most appropriate. The results, based on BIC and AIC information criteria, show that the ARMA(1,1)-CGARCH(1,1) specification with the Student t-distribution is preferred for forecasting. With the help of 5000 simulations, it is estimated that the chances of Index SOFIX reaching its historical peak value of 1976.73 (08.10.2007) are higher than 90% at 13.08.2087.
Drug Resistance: A Modern Threat Confronting Humanity
Authors: Assefa Behailu
Published: June 2024

Our world is rife with challenges, many of which arise from both natural phenomena and human-made issues. While natural problems like diseases and environmental changes often elude our immediate control, a troubling number of today's issues are unintended consequences of human innovations. A striking example is the evolution of drug resistance. The discovery of antibiotics in the early days of modern medicine marked a monumental breakthrough, drastically reducing mortality rates and improving quality of life. Pioneers like Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin in 1928, ushered in a new era of medical treatment, transforming healthcare by effectively combating bacterial infections.However, the widespread and often indiscriminate use of these drugs has led to the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens. This natural phenomenon, accelerated by human practices such as overprescription and the misuse of antibiotics in agriculture, exemplifies a double-edged sword—initially celebrated solutions have now become significant challenges. The same drugs that once cured deadly infections are losing efficacy, making us vulnerable to diseases previously thought under control.The inventors of these drugs acted with the intent to save lives and alleviate suffering, unaware of the long-term consequences. Today, the responsibility to address drug resistance lies with us, armed with hindsight and a deeper understanding of microbial resistance complexities. This review explores the origins and evolution of drug resistance, the role of scientific knowledge, and the implications for future actions.
Crystallization of Calcium Carbonate and Calcium Phosphate Phases in Silica Hydrogel: Morphological and Compositional Characterization
Authors: Sánchez-Pastor Nuria , Pinto André Jorge , del Buey Fernández Pablo , Astilleros José Manuel
Published: June 2024

The present study showcases a series of crystallization experiments using a specially designed double diffusion system to grow crystals belonging to the calcium carbonate-phosphate system. The experimental U-shaped device comprised two vertical solution containers, separated by a horizontal column of silica hydrogel. Each container was filled with 0.5 M CaCl2 and 0.5 M Na2CO3 solutions, which diffused through the gel column over time. Na3PO4 solutions, with 50 and 500 ppm concentrations, were incorporated into the gel in different experiments, resulting in a homogeneous distribution of phosphate concentrations within the diffusion column. After 15 and 30 days incubation period post-nucleation, the crystals formed in different sections of the gel were carefully extracted and studied with scanning electron microscopy and electron microprobe. Additionally, Raman spectra were collected from the samples using a confocal Raman microscope, providing further insights into their molecular composition and structural properties. The obtained results show that under the induced experimental conditions (i) phosphate incorporates into calcite´s structure, and (ii) the growth of calcium phosphates in the presence of carbonate ions involves the sequential, heterogeneous nucleation of CO3-bearing OCP/HAP-like phases with Raman spectral characteristics very similar to those of bioapatites.
Eating Behaviors during Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al Hamimi Jawaher , Al Shithani Asma , Al Mamari Maya , Al Wahaibi Ahmed , Al Awaidy Salah
Published: June 2024

Background Eating disorders are complex illnesses with serious long-term consequences. They are linked to negative outcomes such as miscarriage, low birth weight, and other obstetric and postpartum difficulties. Our study in Muscat, Oman, examines the eating habits of pregnant women who consult primary care physicians. We aim to understand how eating disorders affect pregnant women and inform more effective interventions. Method We used the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire to assess the potential for the presence of eating disorders. Chi-Square and Fisher's Exact tests were used to analyze relationships between improper eating behavior and independent variables. Results The study showed that 1.6% of participants had a potential diagnosis of an eating disorder, with the most common inappropriate behavior being binge-eating at a prevalence of 18.8%. A pre- gestational low Body Mass Index (BMI) was associated with a higher prevalence of binge eating during pregnancy. Additionally, we found that pregnant women who were working were more prone to self-induced vomiting. High BMI before pregnancy was significantly associated with various inappropriate eating behaviors such as restraint behavior (p = 0.000), shape concern (p = 0.000), weight concern (p = 0.040), eating (p = 0.045), laxative use (p = 0.020), and excessive exercise (p = 0.043). Conclusion The study reveals a high prevalence of eating disorders in pregnancy. Less educated women exhibit higher laxative use, while working women show more instances of binge eating and self-induced vomiting. These findings emphasize the critical need to prioritize targeted interventions and support for vulnerable pregnant women.
Genotypic Selection Using QTL for Better Productivity under High Temperature Stress in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Elazazi Elsayed , Ziems Laura , Mahmood Tariq , Eltanger Naeema , Al-Qahtani Maryam , Shahsil Nafeesath , Al-Kuwari Aisha , Metwally Mohammed M. , Trethowan Richard , Dong Chongmei
Published: June 2024

High temperature stress affects tomato production both in tropical and sub-tropical environments worldwide. To explore genetic variation for heat tolerance in tomato, 329 transcontinental tomato varieties were evaluated at The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) greenhouses near Doha, Qatar. Preliminary phenotypic analysis identified a diverse set of 71 hybrid and pure line tomato varieties for more detailed studies. The selected subset was examined in the greenhouse in a randomized complete block design under heat stress. The materials were phenotyped for fruit size, fruit weight, fruit hardness, fruit locules, fruit set (%), total soluble solids (TSS), and fruit yield. Significant phenotypic differences among genotypes were observed for all the traits assessed. To explore the genetic basis of variation among varieties the subset was genotyped using 104 SNP markers identified in previous heat tolerance genome wide association studies (GWAS). Nineteen QTL associated SNP markers could reliably select heat tolerant varieties in terms of better fruit yield, fruit set, and TSS. These markers are located on Chromosome 1, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 12. Interestingly, two clusters of markers on chromosome 6 were linked to significant effects on yield, fruit set, and TSS under high temperature. Some markers located within these QTL regions were also reported as associated with heat tolerance in other studies. Eighteen out of nineteen SNP markers were mapped within a gene body. Based on the phenotypic and the genotypic analysis, an elite set of five varieties was selected for approval for heat stress environments in Qatar. These findings have significance not only for Qatar, but they are also valuable for wider application at other locations worldwide. The 19 markers presented here could be adopted by breeders for marker-assisted selection (MAS) for heat tolerance.
Assessment of the potential for sustainable sugarcane production for bioenergy in Angola
Authors: Matias Adilson João , Horta Nogueira Luiz Augusto , Ocampo Batlle Eric Alberto
Published: June 2024

With a predominantly humid tropical climate and a large area for expanding agricultural activities, Angola has in principle favorable conditions for bioenergy production. The focus of this study was to evaluate the availability of suitable land for producing sugarcane. This crop is highly efficient in converting solar energy into biomass for energy purposes in Angola. To this end, the Global Agro-Ecological Zones database, GAEZ v4, developed by IIASA and FAO, with the aid of the QGIS version 3.22.5, has been used to identify areas suitable for sugarcane cultivation, considering four levels of suitability. Aiming at the sustainability of bioenergy production, areas dedicated to food production, protected areas, and areas with slopes above 16% were excluded. Under these criteria, this study identified the existence of 6.3 Mha in lands of good agricultural suitability, with water resources, corresponding to 5% of the Angolan territory, distributed in seven provinces of the country, especially in the provinces of Cuando Cubango and Cunene, where 85% of the very suitable land under irrigation is located. Adopting a model of agricultural productivity, assuming irrigation and adequate agricultural practices, such area could produce approximately 956 million ton of sugarcane annually, which is significantly higher than the current production in this country, This amount of feedstock, processed using current technology could potentially produce 81.3 GL of ethanol and 176,9 TWh of electricity with low GHG emission per year, able to mitigate, as a whole, circa 60.3 MtCO2-eq/year by displacing gasoline in light vehicles and diesel and natural gas consumed in power generation.
Few-Shot Image Classification of Crop Diseases Based on Vision-Language Models
Authors: Zhou Yueyue , Yan Hongping , Ding Kun , Cai Tingting , Zhang Yan
Published: June 2024

Accurate crop diseases classification is crucial for ensuring food security and enhancing agricultural productivity. However, existing crop disease classification algorithms primarily focus on a single image modality and typically require a large number of samples. Our research counters these issues by using pre-trained Vision-Language Models (VLMs), which enhances multimodal synergy for better crop disease classification than traditional unimodal approaches. Firstly, we apply the multimodal model Qwen-VL to generate meticulous textual descriptions for representative disease images selected through clustering from the training set, which will serve as prompt text for generating classifier weights. Compared to using solely the language model for prompt text generation, this approach better captures and conveys fine-grained and image-specific information, thereby enhancing prompt quality. Secondly, we integrate the cross-attention and the SE (Squeeze-and-Excitation) attention into the training-free mode VLCD (Vision-Language model for Crop Diseases classification) and the training-required mode VLCD-T (VLCD-Training) respectively for prompt text processing, enhancing classifier weights by emphasizing key text features. Experimental outcomes conclusively prove our method’s heightened classification effectiveness in few-shot crop disease scenarios, tackling data limitations and intricate disease recognition issues. It offers a pragmatic tool for agricultural pathology and reinforces the smart farming surveillance infrastructure.
Markers of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Mucinous Histology in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Djikic Rom Aleksandra , Dragicevic Sandra , Jankovic Radmila , Radojevic Skodric Sanja , Sabljak Predrag , Markovic Velimir , Rosic Jovana , Barisic Goran , Nikolic Aleksandra
Published: June 2024

Approximately 20% of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) are diagnosed with a mucinous subtype of this tumor, have a worse prognosis, and often show resistance to available therapies. Molecules from the mucin family are involved in the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which significantly determines the cancer aggressiveness. This study aimed to examine the diagnostic and prognostic significance of mucinous histology and EMT markers in patients with early-onset CRC and their association with disease severity and tumor characteristics. The study included tumor tissue samples from 106 patients diagnosed with CRC before the age of 45, 53 with mucinous and 53 with non-mucinous tumors. The EMT status was determined by immunohistochemical analysis of E-cadherin and Vimentin in tissue sections. Mucinous tumors had a significantly higher cytoplasmic E-cadherin score (P=0.043), they were significantly less differentiated (P=0.007), more advanced (P=0.005), and predominately affected right colon (P=0.030) in comparison to non-mucinous tumors. Epithelial tumors were significantly better differentiated (P=0.034) and with less prominent tumor budding (P < 0.001) than mesenchymal tumors. The process of EMT appears to be more prominent in tumors of younger patients regardless of mucinous histology. EMT status may represent a useful prognostic tool in early-onset CRC.
Molecular-scale liquid density fluctuations and cavity thermodynamics
Authors: Tortorella Attila , Graziano Giuseppe
Published: June 2024

Molecular-scale density fluctuations at equilibrium produce cavities in a liquid and can be analyzed to shed light on the statistics of the number of molecules occupying observation volumes of increasing radius. An information theory approach led to the conclusion that these probabilities should follow a Gaussian distribution function. This prediction has been confirmed by computer simulations in different liquid models if the size of the observation volume is not large. The reversible work of cavity creation is exactly linked to the probability of finding zero molecules in a given observation volume. The Gaussian formula for the latter probability is scrutinized to arrive at the enthalpy and entropy changes associated with cavity creation. The reversible work of cavity creation has a purely entropic origin due to the solvent-excluded volume effect produced by the inaccessibility of a given region of the configurational space. The consequent structural reorganization of liquid molecules leads to exactly compensating enthalpy and entropy changes. These results are in line with those obtained in a direct statistical mechanical study by Lee.
Validation of the Chemical and Biological Steps Required Implementing an Advanced Multi-Omics Approach for Assessing the Fate and Impact of Contaminants in Lagoon Sediments
Authors: Mejait Anouar , Fildier Aurélie , Giroud Barbara , Daniele Gaëlle , Wiest Laure , Raviglione Delphine , Kotarba Jules , Toulza Eve , Ramirez Triana , Lanseman Alexia , Clerissi Camille , Vulliet Emmanuelle , Calvayrac Christophe , Salvia Marie-Virginie
Published: June 2024

The increasing use of chemicals requires a better understanding of their presence and their dynamics in the environment as well as their impact on ecosystems; it is therefore important to set up procedures. The aim of this study was to validate the first steps of an innovative multi-omics approach based on metabolomics and 16S metabarcoding data for future analyses of the contaminants fate and impact in Mediterranean lagoons. First, semi targeted analytical procedures for water and sediment matrices were set up to evaluate the lagoon contamination status. Forty-six compounds were detected, 28 could be quantified in both water (between 0.09 and 47.4 ng/L) and sediment (between 0.008 and 26.3 ng/g) samples using UHPLC-MS/MS instrument. Regarding the non-targeted metabolomics study (UHPLC-HRMS), four sample preparation protocols, based on solid/liquid extractions and an automated pressurized fluid extraction system (EDGE® extractions), were compared in terms of metabolome coverage, efficiency and reproducibility of the extraction methodology. A solid/liquid extraction using acetonitrile/methanol (50/50) solvent was the best protocol. On the other hand, in order to characterize the microbial diversity of the lagoon sediment using metabarcoding, five commercial kits for DNA extraction were evaluated. This study revealed that the DNeasy PowerSoil Pro Qiagen Kit (Promega, USA) was the best compromise for studies assessing microbial diversity in fresh sediment.
Enhancing Efficiency of Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia by Fe and Co Nanoparticles Based Bimetallic Electrocatalyst
Authors: Kuznetsova Irina , Lebedeva Olga , Kultin Dmitry , Mashkin Mikhail , Kalmykov Konstantin B , Kustov Leonid
Published: June 2024

Green and sustainable electrocatalytic conversion of nitrogen-containing compounds to ammonia are currently in high demand in order to replace the eco-unfriendly Haber-Bosch process. Model catalysts for the nitrate reduction reaction were obtained by electrodeposition of metal Co, Fe and bimetallic Fe/Co nanoparticles from aqueous solutions onto a graphite substrate. The samples were characterized by the following methods: SEM, XRD, XPS, UV-vis spectroscopy, cyclic (and linear) voltammetry, chronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Besides, the determination of electrochemically active surface was also performed for all electrocatalysts. The best electrocatalyst was a sample containing Fe-nanoparticles on the layer of Co-nanoparticles, which showed the Faradaic efficiency 58.2% (E=-0.785 V vs. RHE) at the ammonia yield rate of 14.6 μmol h-1 cm-2. An opinion was expressed on elucidation of the mechanism of coordinated electrocatalytic action of a bimetallic electrocatalyst. This work can serve primarily as a starting point for future investigations on electrocatalytic conversion reactions to ammonia using model catalysts of the proposed type.
Culturally Divided by a River: Rural Identity and Regional belonging of Two Rural Communities in Romania
Authors: Dragan Alexandru , Creţan Remus , Jucu Sebastian Ioan , Oancea Oana Andreea
Published: June 2024

In contemporary narratives, the rural and regional identities of a place, as judged by its inhabitants’ sense of belonging, continue to be important points that need to be (re)considered when discussing places as instruments for local development. This paper pushes forward these debated and explores the construction of rural and regional identity in Romania with the help of a case study that focuses on two rural communities situated on opposite sides of the river Mureș. Based on participant and ethnographic observation and making use of a qualitative analysis, this paper highlights the most significant features of the local cultural identities expressed by the two sets of people, which often coincide with the most important characteristics attributed to the regions separated by the river Mureș. The results of this study underline the dividing role of a river in the preservation of rural and regional identity. They also demonstrate that rural identity construction along the river has generated both rural development opportunities and various risks.
Physiological Impacts of Energy Drink Consumption: A Clinical Analysis in Adolescents
Authors: Naveh Gilad , Mansour Bshara , Bader Mahmoud , Steckler Rafi , Nasrallah Elias , Hujeyrat Hamed , Magzal Faiga , Elias Nael , Horovitz Omer , Nimri Lili
Published: June 2024

Energy drink (ED) consumption among Israeli-Arab adolescents is widespread. This study aimed to investigate the acute glycemic and insulin effects of EDs in healthy adolescents. Seventy-one Israeli-Arab adolescents (56% girls, average age 16.04±1.03 years) participated in a non-randomized, case-controlled, open-label study. Participants consumed ED (n=36) or a volume- and carbohydrate-matched non-caffeinated soft drink (SD, n=35), followed by a 2 h glucose tolerance test. Blood glucose was measured at baseline and 15, 30, 60, and 120 minutes post-consumption (T0, T15, T30, T60 and T120, respectively). Serum insulin concentration and caffeine relative intensity were determined 45 minutes post-consumption (T45). Blood glucose levels peaked significantly at T15 and remained significantly higher at T30 in the ED group compared to the SD group (p=0.005, p=0.017, respectively). Insulin concentrations were substantially higher at T45 in the ED group (t[64]=2.794, p=0.001). This pattern was especially prominent in heavy ED consumers. A positive correlation emerged between the amount of caffeine consumed (mg/kg), blood glucose levels at T15 and T30, and insulin concentration at T45. This study is the first to demonstrate the glycemic and insulin responses to ED consumption in adolescents, suggesting that regulatory measures limiting ED sales to adolescents could improve their health.
A Comprehensive Review on Processing-in-Memory Architectures for Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Kaur Rupinder , Asad Arghavan , Mohammadi Farahnaz
Published: June 2024

This comprehensive review explores the advancements in processing-in-memory (PIM) techniques for deep learning applications. It addresses the challenges faced by monolithic chip architectures and highlights the benefits of chiplet-based designs in terms of scalability, modularity, and flexibility. The review emphasizes the importance of dataflow-awareness, communication optimization, and thermal considerations in designing PIM-enabled manycore architectures. It discusses different machine learning workloads and their tailored dataflow requirements. Additionally, the review presents a heterogeneous PIM system for energy-efficient neural network training and discusses thermally efficient dataflow-aware monolithic 3D (M3D) NoC architectures for accelerating CNN inferencing. The advantages of TEFLON (Thermally Efficient Dataflow-Aware 3D NoC) over performance-optimized SFC-based counterparts are highlighted. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the development and evaluation of chiplet and PIM architectures, emphasizing improved performance, energy efficiency, and inference accuracy in deep learning applications.
Partial Reversal of Coronary Stenosis with Intravenous Hydrogen and Oxygen Nanobubble Administration: A Case Report
Authors: Hernowo Aditya T. , Pardosi James C. , Subagjo S. , Dewi Aning Tyas K. , Sumitro Sutiman B.
Published: June 2024

Background. Coronary artery disease (CAD) with extensive stenosis presents significant clinical challenges. This case report details the management and outcomes of a 61-year-old male with a notable history of CAD, initially treated with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), followed by an innovative intravenous hydrogen and oxygen nanobubble therapy due to recurrent symptoms.Case Presentation. Mr. BH was diagnosed with significant stenosis in the left anterior descending (LAD) artery and left circumflex (LCx) artery, initially managed by CABG. Recurring symptoms led to the adoption of a novel treatment involving hydrogen and oxygen nanobubbles. Following treatment initiation, Mr. BH experienced substantial improvements in physical capacity and symptomatic relief, with an ability to climb 22 flights of stairs and resolution of previous symptoms such as dyspnea and cough. Despite these improvements, subsequent imaging revealed in-stent restenosis and progression of graft disease.Discussion. The application of hydrogen and oxygen nanobubbles as a therapy in CAD is explored, highlighting potential mechanisms such as reduction of oxidative stress and improvement in endothelial function. This case contrasts the effects of conventional surgical and pharmaceutical interventions with the novel nanobubble therapy, illustrating both the benefits and complexities of managing advanced CAD with innovative treatments.Conclusion. While Mr. BH showed clinical improvement with nanobubble therapy, the development of new severe stenosis and restenosis underscores the need for further research to understand the long-term efficacy and mechanisms of nanobubble therapy in complex CAD cases. This case suggests that while innovative therapies may provide symptomatic relief and functional improvement, they do not obviate the need for ongoing surveillance and possibly further intervention.
Understanding Aerosol-Cloud Interactions Through Lidar Techniques: A Review
Authors: Cairo Francesco , Di Liberto Luca , Dionisi Davide , Snels Marcel
Published: June 2024

Aerosol-cloud interactions play a crucial role in shaping Earth’s climate and hydrological 1 cycle. Observing these interactions with high precision and accuracy is of the utmost importance 2 for improving climate models and predicting Earth’s climate. Over the past few decades, lidar 3 techniques have emerged as powerful tools for investigating aerosol-cloud interactions due to their 4 ability to provide detailed vertical profiles of aerosol particles and clouds with high spatial and 5 temporal resolutions. This review paper provides an overview of recent advancements in the study 6 of aerosol-cloud interactions using lidar techniques. The paper begins with a description of the 7 different cloud microphysical processes that are affected by the presence of the aerosol, and with 8 an outline of lidar remote sensing application in characterizing aerosol particles and clouds. The 9 subsequent sections delve into the key findings and insights gained from lidar-based studies of 10 aerosol-cloud interactions. This includes investigations into the role of aerosol particles in cloud 11 formation, evolution, and microphysical properties. Finally, the review concludes with an outlook 12 on future research. By reporting the latest findings and methodologies, this review aims to provide 13 valuable insights for researchers engaged in climate science and atmospheric research.
Comparison of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dehydration Technologies: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: López Luna C. , Hincapié-Llanos Gustavo Adolfo
Published: June 2024

The convective hot air drying technology can cause physicochemical, nutritional, and organoleptic losses in mango (Mangifera indica). Therefore, mango dehydration technologies were compared through a Systematic Literature Review to identify the effects on mango’s physicochemical, nutritional, and organoleptic properties. The bibliographic and theoretical results were analyzed. Of the 76 resulting articles, it was found that the countries with authors who participated most in the scientific production were those related to mango production or importation. Furthermore, the freeze-drying technology allows operating at lower temperatures than convective hot air drying, contributing to the preservation of ascorbic acid, among other compounds. The refractance window has the shortest operation time to obtain moisture values between 10 and 20%. The dehydrated samples using the refractance window are smooth, homogeneous, non-porous, and comparable to the color obtained with freeze-drying, which is acceptable for industrial applications.
Sensor Systems for Measuring Force and Temperature with Fiber-Optic Bragg Gratings Embedded in Composite Materials
Authors: Kalizhanova Aliya , Kozbakova Ainur , Kunelbayev Murat , Aitkulov Zhalau , Utegenova Anar , Imanbekova Ulzhan
Published: June 2024

Currently, there is a high interest in smart sensors and integrated composite materials in various industries such as construction, aviation, automobile, medical, information technology, communication, and manufacturing. Here, a new conceptual design for a force and temperature sensor system is developed by integrating fiber optic Bragg grating sensors embedded within composite materials, and a mathematical model is proposed that allows one to estimate strain and temperature based on signals obtained from optical Bragg gratings. This is important for understanding the behaviors of sensors under different conditions and for creating effective monitoring systems. Describing the strain gradient distribution, especially considering different materials with different values of Young's modulus, provides insight into how different materials respond to applied forces and temperature changes. The shape of the strain gradient distribution was obtained, which is a quadratic function with a maximum value of 1500 µ, with a maximum value at the center of the lattice and a symmetrically decreasing strain value with distance from the central part of the fiber Bragg grating. With axial strain at the installation site of the Bragg grating sensor under applied force values ranging from 10 to 11 N, the change in strain was linear. As a result of theoretical research, it was found that the developed system with fiber-optic sensors based on Bragg gratings embedded in composite materials is resistant to external influences and temperature changes.
Hyperbolic volume of 3-d manifolds, A-polynomials, numerical hypothesis testing
Authors: Aptekarev Alexander Ivanovich
Published: June 2024

We continue our study of the connections between the hyperbolic volume of the complement of a knot in the three dimensional sphere with topological invariants of this knot. This time we pay attention to A(M,L) parametrization for the affine variety with casp, produced by a knot (so-called A-polynomials). Then, using the known expressions of A-polynomials for number of knots we present results of the numerical tests for the conjectures on asymptotics of solutions of q-difference equations connected with the hyperbolic volume of these knots.
Oficina de brinquedos e brincadeiras: manejando comportamentos antissociais nas aulas de educação física
Authors: Soares Leys Eduardo dos Santos , Gomes-da-Silva Pierre Normando
Published: June 2024

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo investigar em que medida as aulas com a Oficina de Brinquedos e Brincadeiras (OBBA) contribuíram para a diminuição da incidência de comportamentos antissociais nas aulas de Educação Física. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa do tipo pesquisa-ação, na qual nos auxiliamos da psicanálise de D. W. Winnicott para interpretação das condutas antissociais. A pesquisa teve cinco etapas, que totalizaram 63 horas de intervenção em uma escola pública. As aulas-OBBA foram orientadas pelos conhecimentos teóricos e metodológicos da Pedagogia da Corporeidade, método ao qual a OBBA é um de seus programas didáticos. A partir dos registros em um protocolo de avaliação, os resultados das aulas-OBBA apontaram para uma melhoria dos comportamentos antissociais, apresentando uma expressiva diminuição das agressões físicas e verbais durante o período de intervenção, contribuindo, assim, para a constituição de um ambiente de convivência mais saudável entre os educandos.
STATIC INVESTIGATION OF REAR AND SIDE PROTECTIVE DEVICES OF TRUCK VEHICLES
Authors: Ostroverkh Oleksandr , Mamontov Anatolii , Venher Artur
Published: June 2024

In the work, static studies of the load of rear and side protective devices of cargo vehicles were carried out. The material used is Steel 20, with a yield strength of 241MPa and a strength of 448MPa. Loading was carried out in two stages: 1) loading from the left side of the beam; 2) center load. So, as the results of applying effort to the left end of the beam will be similar to the effort applied from the right side, the study was conducted only from one left part. Fixation was carried out in places of attachment to the frame at an equal distance from the center with an interaxial distance of 1280 mm.
DEVELOPMENT OF MEASURES BY MOTOR TRANSPORT ENTERPRISES TO INCREASE ROAD SAFETY
Authors: Stepanov Oleksii , Volobuyeva Tetyana , Syrota V'yacheslav , Mastepan Serhii , Mastepan Mykola
Published: June 2024

The road transport enterprise must constantly pay attention to improving traffic safety on roads and in cities. The influence of the professional skills of drivers on the quality and efficiency of the operation of vehicles during transportation is manifested through traffic safety indicators, the quality of transportation, and the economy of traffic modes. The efficiency of the driver's work depends on his fitness, preparation and working capacity. When conducting research on the organization of transport processes and ensuring traffic safety, the enterprise must adhere to the following provisions of the organization of road traffic: assessment of the possibility of using drivers on certain types of transportation; holding classes on improving the qualifications of drivers, traffic safety rules; organization of the system for ensuring the working capacity of drivers; conducting classes on the distribution of better experience of drivers. A system of measures has been developed at the enterprise to reduce the risk of occurrence, to prevent traffic accidents and to influence the factors of the greatest risk of occurrence of accidents.
Analisis Kapasitas Parkir Dalam Mendukung Kegiatan Ibadah Masyarakat (Studi Kasus Pada Kawasan Ground Floor di Pura Besakih)
Authors: Ni Nyoman Andayani  , Gde Prasawitha Pradnyanatha  , Nadila Reza Dinata  , Arif Devi Dwipayana
Published: June 2024

Pura Besakih merupakan pura terbesar di Bali dan pusat kegiatan upacara agama Hindu. Salah satu perayaan penting di Pura Besakih adalah Upacara Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh yang berlangsung selama dua puluh satu hari berturut-turut. Dalam rangka mengantisipasi jumlah pengunjung yang membludak selama perayaan ini, Pemerintah Provinsi Bali mengeluarkan Surat Edaran Gubernur Bali tentang tatanan baru bagi pemedek atau pengunjung, termasuk pentingnya fasilitas parkir yang nyaman. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis kebutuhan ruang parkir dan melakukan evaluasi terhadap sistem parkir di kawasan Ground Floor di Pura Besakih selama Upacara Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah teknik kuantitatif deskriptif dengan pengumpulan data primer dan sekunder. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ruang parkir di Ground Floor Pura Besakih memiliki kapasitas yang cukup luas untuk menampung kebutuhan parkir kendaraan.
Penguatan Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar Guru PJOK Desa Bobojong Kabupaten Cianjur
Authors: Subandi Oman Unju
Published: June 2024

Sebagai upaya dalam mengatasi adanya gap learning dan pemulihan dari bencana pasca pandemi covid-19, hadinya kurikulum merdeka belajar ini untuk memudahkan guru dalam memberikan pembelajaran serta lebih menyenangkan. Kurikulum merdeka belajar dalam Namun, masih minim kesiapan dan keberanian guru dalam bereksplorasi, berinovasi, dan berkreasi. dalam Pembelajaran PJOK. Tujuan dari Merdeka Belajar PJOK ini untuk mengembangkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan pengelolaan diri dalam upaya meningkatkan dan memelihara kebugaran jasmani, kesejahteraan diri, serta pola perilaku hidup sehat. Mitra kegiatan ini adalah MGMP PJOK dan IGORNAS Kota Cianjur, dengan tujuan adalah meningkatkan pengetahuan guru dalam implementasi kurikulum merdeka belajar dalam mata pelajaran PJOK. Bentuk kegiatan yang dilaksanakan dalam dua bentuk yaitu (1) pelatihan dengan pemberian materi mengenai konsep dan implementasi kurikulum merdeka belajar, dan PJOK, (2) Diskusi tanya jawab terkait permasalahan implementasi kurikulum merdeka belajar PJOK. Kegiatan pengabdian ini sangat membantu bagi guru PJOK, karena diharapkan bagi guru mampu dalam mengimplementasikan kurikulum merdeka belajar pada mata pelajaran PJOK agar dapat tercapai tujuan pembelajaran yang diharapkan
Materials and methods used for the expedient repair of concrete pavements
Authors: Tingle Jeb , Williams Charles , Carruth William , Tibbetts Caitlin
Published: June 2024

Many traditional methods for the repair and rehabilitation of concrete pavements require meticulous construction processes with specialized equipment and long material curing periods in order to develop adequate strength and durability prior to returning the pavement to service. This paper summarizes the results of research projects conducted by the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center in order to develop innovative pavement repair procedures and evaluate numerous commercial repair materials that can produce fast long-lasting repairs that facilitate the rapid re-opening of critical pavement infrastructure to traffic. This paper summarizes methods used for the certification and selection of suitable concrete pavement repair materials. In addition, this paper outlines the key activities included in expedient concrete repair processes. Thus, this paper provides a valuable summary of state-of-the-art concrete repair procedures and materials for the rapid and effective repair and rehabilitation of concrete pavements.
Petrology and Stable Isotopes of Patchy Dolostone of Ediacaran Dengying Formation in South Qinling, Central China: Implication for the Diagenetic History
Authors: Zuo Pengfei , Cheng Haihua , Magalhães A. J. C. , Sun Jiangtao , Qiu Liang , Xiao Zihan , Dong Yiming
Published: June 2024

Dolostone, with its complex diagenetic history, has long been debate. The formation of patchy dolostone, which consists of various types of dolomites, is particularly controversial due to the superimposed diagenetic events. In this study, we conducted mineralogical and stable isotope geochemical analyses of the Ediacaran patchy dolostone from the Dengying Formation in South Qinling to elucidate the diagenetic processes involved. Microscopic examination reveals that the patchy dolostone can be classified into three types: Type I, composed of micritic to powdery crystalline dolomite (D1) and fine crystalline dolomite (D2); Type II, primarily consisting of medium-coarse crystalline dolomite (D3) along with D2; and Type III, characterized by the presence of saddle dolomite (SD) and D1. Cathodoluminescence and electron probe microanalysis indicate that D2 and D3 are enriched in Mn and Fe, whereas SD is depleted in Sr and Na compared to D1. Backscattered electron images reveal a prevalence of apatite, particularly in Type III dolostone. Calcite and quartz extensively replace the dolomites. Carbon and oxygen isotopes indicate that D1 has the highest δ13C and δ18O values, while D2 and D3 show negative shifts, and SD exhibits the lowest values. These observations suggest that the transition from D1 to D2 and D3 is due to recrystallization processes during burial. The formation of SD is likely the result of hydrothermal activity. Consequently, the patchy dolostone experienced three main stages of diagenesis, which included the recrystallization of D1 and the formation of SD. Considering the vertical distribution of the patchy dolostone and the occurrence of hyperkarst breccia dolostone, it is reasonable to infer that sea level variations are the primary cause of the formation of patchy dolostone.
Development of a Large Shaking Table Test for Sand Liquefaction Analysis
Authors: Yao Chuanqin , Zhong Huaqiao , Zhu Zhehao
Published: June 2024

This article highlights the development of a large shaking table test for sand liquefaction analysis. Two soil containers of different sizes were fabricated. The first one was small (0.87 m × 0.87 m × 1.20 m) in which the reconstitution and saturation methods could be easily tested. The dry tamping (DT) method was used to fabricate a model specimen. The subsequent field measurements suggested that the DT method provided a good distribution of sand grains in different cross sections. Before supplying the model specimen with water, carbon dioxide was flushed to replace air bubbles. This helped in obtaining a good degree of saturation, later verified by a digital moisture meter. For a given inlet water flux, the recorded pore water pressure displayed a quasi-linear trend, suggesting a good internal void system. This reconfirms the effectiveness of the DT method to yield homogeneous model specimens. The second soil container was huge (4 m × 4 m × 2 m) and used to explore liquefaction behavior in real engineering dimensions. Flexible foams were mounted on the side walls to mitigate the boundary effect. Although the boundary effect still manifested itself near the edges of the container during base shaking, half of the model specimen underwent a correct simple shear condition. For further analysis, vane shear tests were carried out before and after the liquefaction test. It was found that the intermediate layer, in general, suffered from the most severe liquefaction failure.
DSOD: A Novel Method for Intelligent Traffic Object Detection
Authors: chen hao , chen zhan , yu hang
Published: June 2024

Accurate identification of road object is crucial for intelligent traffic systems. However, due to the complexity of road traffic scenarios, developing efficient and accurate road object detection methods has been a challenging task. In this study, a new improved method for road object detection is proposed, named Enhanced YOLOv5 algorithm and Deep Schedule Object Detection (DSOD) algorithm. Real traffic scenes from the BDD100k dataset are used for training and testing the object detection model. The dataset consists of 9 different types of road objects in various traffic scenarios. The Mosaic data augmentation algorithm is applied to merge images in the dataset. Mean Average Precision (mAP), Precision (P), and Recall (R) are used as evaluation metrics to compare the enhanced YOLOv5 model with the most common models. Experimental results demonstrate that the DSOD algorithm achieves success in intelligent traffic object detection, significantly improving the accuracy and robustness of road object recognition. Additionally, the developed model shows significant performance improvement in accurately identifying objects in complex traffic scenes. These results suggest that the DSOD algorithm is a promising choice for intelligent road recognition and can easily adapt to different traffic scenarios. Furthermore, employing cloud computing for real-time detection meets the requirements of intelligent cooperative vehicles and enhances their visual perception capabilities.
Spring abundance, biomass and sizes of appendicularians between open sea MPA Namuncurá/ Burdwood Bank and the adjacent coastal area, Southwest Atlantic Ocean: Are they a key link in the trophic web?
Authors: Alves Nadia , Spinelli Mariela , Martin Jacobo , Malits Andrea , Capitanio Fabiana
Published: June 2024

Appendicularians are recognized as one of the most abundant mesozooplankton groups in numerous pelagic environments and they play a crucial role in marine ecosystems as they bridge the gap between primary producers and higher trophic levels in the food webs. Zooplankton samples were collected during three spring oceanographic surveys conducted in 2014, 2015, and 2016, in the coastal zone (Staten Island) and oceanic zone (Namuncurá-Banco Burdwood Marine Protected Area). Our study focuses on a comparative analysis of species composition, density, biomass, and maturity stages of appendicularia between these oceanic and coastal regions, which are marked by distinct physical and biological attributes. Two species of appendicularians were found in the study area, Oikopleura fusiformis and Fritillaria borealis, the former being the dominant. Their distribution was different because F. borealis was mainly concentrated in the coastal zone while O. fusiformis was consistently recorded in both zones. Chlorophyll-a concentrations were found to be higher in the coastal zone than in the oceanic zone. These higher concentrations were accompanied by higher densities of O. fusiformis in that area. The surface current velocity seems to reflect the total phytoplankton biomass being higher in the oceanic zone. On the other hand, the temperature for the marine protected area was lower which could be related to the larger sizes of the appendicularians in that zone. Baseline data of the species in protected areas and surrounding areas is essential to contribute to the stakeholders and advise on future changes that translate into regional and global processes.
A Mixed Convection Model for Estimating the Critical Velocity to Prevent Smoke Backlayering in Tunnels
Authors: Beyer Michael , Stacey Conrad , Brenn Günter
Published: June 2024

A novel mathematical model for the critical ventilation velocity to prevent smoke backlayering in tunnels is presented, addressing limitations of prior approaches. The basis of the model is a rigorous characterisation of the physical processes by the characteristic quantities. Empirical parameters within the new model are determined, to align with results from both full-size and small-scale tunnel experiments. Data from numerical simulations (CFD, Computational Fluid Dynamics), validated by known test data, are then used to estimate the effects of tunnel slope and other parameters on the critical velocity. The model is seen to approximate the critical velocity well, following all trends identified by test data and CFD parameter studies. The empirically calibrated equation permits prediction of the critical velocity beyond the narrow range of tunnel geometries where known results already give an answer. The resulting equation has practical application for tunnel design.
Plant origin metabolites in the development of new preparations for overcoming antibiotic-resistance and enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents
Authors: Ginovyan Mikayel , Tadevosyan Silvard , Shirvanyan Anahit , Babayan Anush , Kusznierewicz Barbara , Koss-Mikołajczyk Izabela , Mróz Marika , Bartoszek Agnieszka , Sahakyan Naira
Published: June 2024

The presented study aimed to assess the efficacy of secondary metabolites extracted from blackcurrant, fig, and grape leaves in reversing antibiotic resistance and enhancing chemotherapeutic efficacy. The viability tests were employed to assess the resistance-modifying properties of the metabolites both in bacterial cells and cancer cell-lines. To elucidate the potential mechanisms of the antibiotic modulatory activity of test extracts, the changes in H+-fluxes across the cell membrane and their impact on the H+-translocating F0F1-ATPase activity in E. coli were explored. Metabolomic characterization of the extracts was conducted using LC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis. Experiments on doxorubicin-resistant and susceptible HT-29 cells revealed that all three extracts reversed antibiotic resistance in HT-29R cells, making them susceptible to doxorubicin in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, blackcurrant, and fig significantly reduced the minimum inhibitory concentrations of ampicillin and kanamycin against resistant E. coli strains. Our results indicated that all plant extracts enhanced H+-fluxes in the investigated bacterial strain and promoted ATPase activity, suggesting a potential role in altering bacterial membrane integrity. LC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis identified more than 100 major peaks, with flavonoids and phenolics being the dominant constituents. The study underscores the potential of the selected plant extracts in developing of new agents to overcome antibiotic resistance and enhance the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents. Importantly, although these plant leaves are often considered as bio-waste, they can be used as valuable sources of bioactive compounds. This underlines the importance of re-evaluating agricultural by-products for their potential in pharmacological applications, fostering a sustainable approach in drug development.