bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A high‐power electromagnetic source for disabling improvised explosive devices
Authors: Ariztia Laurent , Ibrahimi Njomza , Zhabin Alexey , de Ferron Antoine Silvestre , Rivaletto Marc , Martinod Edson , Bertrand Valérie , Novac Bucur , Pécastaing Laurent
Published: March 2024

Ultra‐wideband (UWB) microwave sources driven by specialised pulsed power generators have experienced a considerable development in the last decade due to their wide domain of new applications such as defence or counter‐terrorism activity. The authors present the main findings of a research dedicated to the development of a pulsed power‐driven electromagnetic field source for disabling improvised explosive devices (IED). The pulsed power generator driving the source is a 13‐stage compact Marx producing voltage pulses reaching an amplitude of 0.5 MV, with a pulse repetition frequency (PRF) of up to 100 Hz. The generator is coupled to a bipolar pulse forming line, providing bipolar pulses with a dV/dt of around 1.6 MV/ns. This pulsed power system feeds an array composed of 16 Koshelev‐type UWB antennas through an impedance matching transformer. The resulting electromagnetic source is capable to produce pulsed electric fields (PEFs) having a figure‐of‐merit (FOM) of 1 MV. First, practical experiments were carried out to study the effects of the PEFs on targets. The targets used in the present study are M2B type flashbulbs, known to have the same susceptibility as the US army M6 detonator. Different configurations of wires (shielded, twisted, etc) with different lengths were used in connecting items inside these targets. The tests were performed by placing the flashbulbs at different distances to determine the essential parameters (i.e., amplitude, duration, and frequency range) of the PEFs required to trigger them. An overview of the experimental campaign and the main findings are also presented followed by conclusions.
Tracking the motion of a shock along a channel in the low solar corona
Authors: Rigney J. , Gallagher P. T. , Ramsay G. , Doyle J. G. , Long D. M. , Stepanyuk O. , Kozarev K.
Published: March 2024

Context. Shock waves are excited by coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and large-scale extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) wave fronts and can result in low-frequency radio emission under certain coronal conditions.

Aims. In this work, we investigate a moving source of low-frequency radio emission as a CME and an associated EUV wave front move along a channel of a lower density, magnetic field, and Alfvén speed in the solar corona.

Methods. Observations from the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory, the Nançay Radio Heliograph (NRH), and the Irish Low Frequency Array (I-LOFAR) were analysed. Differential emission measure maps were generated to determine densities and Alfvén maps, and the kinematics of the EUV wave front was tracked using CorPITA. The radio sources’ positions and velocity were calculated from NRH images and I-LOFAR dynamic spectra.

Results. The EUV wave expanded radially with a uniform velocity of ∼500 km s−1. However, the radio source was observed to be deflected and appeared to move along a channel of a lower Alfvén speed, abruptly slowing from 1700 km s−1 to 250 km s−1 as it entered a quiet-Sun region. A shock wave with an apparent radial velocity of > 420 km s−1 was determined from the drift rate of the associated Type II radio burst.

Conclusions. The apparent motion of the radio source may have resulted from a wave front moving along a coronal wave guide or by different points along the wave front emitting at locations with favourable conditions for shock formation.
Turbulence and particle energization in twisted flux ropes under solar-wind conditions
Authors: Pezzi O. , Trotta D. , Benella S. , Sorriso-Valvo L. , Malara F. , Pucci F. , Meringolo C. , Matthaeus W. H. , Servidio S.
Published: March 2024

Context.The mechanisms regulating the transport and energization of charged particles in space and astrophysical plasmas are still debated. Plasma turbulence is known to be a powerful particle accelerator. Large-scale structures, including flux ropes and plasmoids, may contribute to confining particles and lead to fast particle energization. These structures may also modify the properties of the turbulent, nonlinear transfer across scales.

Aims.We aim to investigate how large-scale flux ropes are perturbed and, simultaneously, how they influence the nonlinear transfer of turbulent energy toward smaller scales. We then intend to address how these structures affect particle transport and energization.

Methods.We adopted magnetohydrodynamic simulations perturbing a large-scale flux rope in solar-wind conditions and possibly triggering turbulence. Then, we employed test-particle methods to investigate particle transport and energization in the perturbed flux rope.

Results.The large-scale helical flux rope inhibits the turbulent cascade toward smaller scales, especially if the amplitude of the initial perturbations is not large (∼5%). In this case, particle transport is inhibited inside the structure. Fast particle acceleration occurs in association with phases of trapped motion within the large-scale flux rope.
Magnetic helicity evolution during active region emergence and subsequent flare productivity
Authors: Sun Zheng , Li Ting , Wang Quan , Yang Shangbin , Zhang Mei , Chen Yajie
Published: March 2024

Aims. Solar active regions (ARs), which are formed by flux emergence, serve as the primary sources of solar eruptions. However, the specific physical mechanism that governs the emergence process and its relationship with flare productivity remains to be thoroughly understood.

Methods. We examined 136 emerging ARs, focusing on the evolution of their magnetic helicity and magnetic energy during the emergence phase. Based on the relation between helicity accumulation and magnetic flux evolution, we categorized the samples and investigated their flare productivity.

Results. The emerging ARs we studied can be categorized into three types, Type-I, Type-II, and Type-III, and they account for 52.2%, 25%, and 22.8% of the total number in our sample, respectively. Type-I ARs exhibit a synchronous increase in both the magnetic flux and magnetic helicity, while the magnetic helicity in Type-II ARs displays a lag in increasing behind the magnetic flux. Type-III ARs show obvious helicity injections of opposite signs. Significantly, 90% of the flare-productive ARs (flare index ≥ 6) were identified as Type-I ARs, suggesting that this type of AR has a higher potential to become flare productive. In contrast, Type-II and Type-III ARs exhibited a low and moderate likelihood of becoming active, respectively. Our statistical analysis also revealed that Type-I ARs accumulate more magnetic helicity and energy, far beyond what is found in Type-II and Type-III ARs. Moreover, we observed that flare-productive ARs consistently accumulate a significant amount of helicity and energy during their emergence phase.

Conclusions. These findings provide valuable insight into the flux emergence phenomena, offering promising possibilities for early-stage predictions of solar eruptions.
Analysis Resistance of Malathion and Cypermethrin Insecticide on Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) from Kaliwungu Kudus and
Kotagede Yogyakarta Using CDC Bottle Bioassay
Authors: Azka Falah Afghan , Roro Upiek Ngesti Wibawaning Astuti Raden , Didik Setiawan Yohanes
Published: March 2024

Aedes aegypti is a primary vector of Dengue infection and is frequently found near to human dwellings. Indonesia is a tropical country with environmentally suitable for mosquito breeding. Insecticides are commonly used to control mosquito population, however long and continuous use it will create resistance. This study aimed to determine the resistance of Aedes aegypti populations from Kaliwungu District, Kudus Regency and Kotagede District, Yogyakarta City to malathion and cypermethrin using CDC Bottle Bioassay. Ovitraps were placed in 50 houses of each location, and the eggs were brought to the laboratory for rearing until adulthood. Fifteen of female mosquitoes were used as test for each concentration of malathion and cypermethrin. Results showed that Ae. aegypti mosquitoes from Kaliwungu and Kotagede were resistant to malathion at the diagnostic dose of 1x. However, at the 2x diagnostic test, mosquito from Kaliwungu showed tolerant, while mosquito from Kotagede was susceptible to malathion. The cypermethrin test showed that both mosquito samples were resistant and susceptible at the diagnostic dose of 2x and 5x respectively.
Antiangiogenic Activity of Pineapple (Ananas comosus) Stem Extract on Chicken Embryo’s Chorioallantois Membrane (CAM)
Authors: Mafaz Zhafira , Majida Hariono Afra , Nurhidayat Luthfi
Published: March 2024

Inhibition of angiogenesis is able to suppress cancer growth by starving the cancer cells. It has been reported that the growth of human tongue squamous cell carcinoma can be inhibited by administering pineapple’s (Ananas comosus) extract. However, antiangiogenic activity of this extract has not been studied yet. This study aimed to investigate antiangiogenic activity of pineapple’s stem extract on chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chicken embryo. Pineapple stems were extracted by ultrasonic-assisted method using ethanol 96%. The chemical compositions were determined by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and the protein concentration was analysed by the biuret method. In-ovo antiangiogenics assay was performed on CAM induced by basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The extract at concentrations of 0.6%, 0.9% and 1.2% were administered on days 9-14 of egg incubation. We counted the number of CAM vasculatures using a stereomicroscope and examined the embryonic blood smears-stained May-Grunwald to investigate the extract-induced inflammation. Pineapple extract contained saponin by TLC and 1.93 mg/ml protein by the biuret test. The vasculatures were significantly reduced by all concentrations of the extract. At a concentration of 1.2%, the extract did not induce notable inflammation in chicken embryos. In conclusion, pineapple stems extract shows antiangiogenics activity on CAM.
Elemental Analysis of Tetragonula laeviceps Propolis by X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Missy Rachmawarifa Corina , Zidane Mulyawan Luthfan , Sudaryadi Ignatius
Published: March 2024

Propolis, a natural substance produced by stingless bees (Tetragonula laeviceps), consists of a blend of resins collected from plant exudates and other botanical sources. Bees utilize propolis for hive maintenance and protection against predators. Propolis is widely used in various therapeutic formulations, including treatments for upper respiratory tract infections, burns, acne, herpes, and neurodermatitis. The propolis samples were analyzed using Olympus DELTA Professional Handheld XRF Analyzer. This study employs X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis to investigate the elemental composition of propolis. Data results of XRF were presented in percentage with limit detection into ppm (%, ppm). The result showed that the three most dominant elements composition in propolis sample from FB 1 were Ca(77.12%) ; K(11.59%), and SO3(5.18%). Propolis Sample from KP 1 were Fe(31.73%);Ca (26.42%); and K(14.04%). Propolis Sample from KP 2 were K(28.32%); P2O5(24.35%); and Ca(18.82%). The conclusion was that the three propolis samples contained 2 constant elements, namely Calcium (Ca) and Potassium (K). Calcium and Potassium were found to be essential functions in all organisms.
Vegetation Analysis of the Spring Water Surroundings at the Wanagama Rehabilitated Forest
Authors: Kusumandari Ambar , Marhaento Hero , Suryatmojo Hatma
Published: March 2024

Water is a basic need for all living things on earth. The existence of water on Earth cannot be separated from the hydrological cycle. The presence of vegetation has an impact on the water absorption process and protects the soil surface from the kinetic energy of rainwater. Vegetation measurements were carried out on plots measuring 8 m x 60 m. The measuring plot is made perpendicular to the contour direction or in the direction of the slope. Data processed with Ms. Excel continued with SExIFS software. Vegetation data was collected to create a profile diagram with horizontal and vertical projections as well as calculate the relative dominancy (DR), relative frequency (FR), and relative density (KR) to determine the important index (INP) value. The research results showed that the percentage of canopy cover varied from 33.13% in Tuk Umbul, followed by Sendang Tahunan and Sendang Ayu at 46.87% and 42.08%, then Sendang Mojo (74.17%) and the best is at the Salak Spring area (87.71%). The highest important index values are at teak (Tectona grandis), followed by Jabon (Neolamarckia cadamba), and Beringin (Ficus sp.).
Detection of Malaria Antigen by Rapid Diagnostic Method in Student STIKes Guna Bangsa Yogyakarta Origin East Nusa Tenggara
Authors: Zain Kumara Rahmawati , Widyaswara Gravinda , Rahman Aulia , Sepvianti Wiwit , Rahayu Tanti , Bahy Yolanta Wilsa
Published: March 2024

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium protozoa, affects 300-500 million annually, resulting in 1.5 to 2.7 million deaths worldwide. Particularly prevalent in East Nusa Tenggara, ranking third in malaria morbidity after Papua and West Papua One of the processes of transmitting malaria is through blood transfusions. Researchers see the need for malaria antigen testing to prevent the spread of malaria, especially to students from East Nusa Tenggara. This research aims to determine the proportion of malaria incidence among STIKes Guna Bangsa students from the East Nusa Tenggara area. The type of research used was descriptive observational with a cross-sectional design. The total sample was 36 students with malaria antigen screening using the Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) method (Standareagen diagnostic kit for Malaria Pf/Pv antigen), analyzing risk factors for malaria incidence and measuring hemoglobin levels. Generally, malaria is characterized by low hemoglobin levels. The results of this research were that 100% of the samples were non-reactive to malaria with normal hemoglobin levels, so it could be concluded that there was no incidence of malaria in the students' blood analysis samples from either the RDT or risk factors.
Distribution of silicon in different organ of bamboo (Gigantochloa apus (Schult. & Schult.) Kubz ex Munro)
Authors: Leksikowati Sovia Santi , Rachmawati Diah
Published: March 2024

Bamboo is one of the plants that accumulates large amounts of silicon (Si) and potentially be utilized as a source of Si. Si plays a role in reducing abiotic and biotic stresses. This study aims to analyze the Si content in ash from various bamboo plant organs (leaves, stems and roots). Bamboo was taken from Klaten Regency, Central Java. The process of making ash used manual burning, followed by ashing using a furnace at 600 °C in temperature. Bamboo plant ash was analyzed using the AOAC method and confirmed by Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (ED XRF), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) instruments and mapping to determine the composition of the oxide and SiO2 content. Analysis using the AOAC method showed that SiO2 content in bamboo leaf ash (76.88%) was higher than bamboo stem ash (48.43%) and bamboo root ash (56.28%). The results of ED XRF, SEM analysis and mapping showed that the main composition of bamboo plant ash was SiO2. SiO2 content of bamboo leaf ash (22.89%; 80.28%) was higher than bamboo stem ash (12.36%; 39.17%) and bamboo root ash (11.82%; 61.57%), respectively. The higher Si content in bamboo leaf ash was related to Si deposition in the leaf epidermis.
Détection de panache de lixiviats par tomographie de résistivité 3D avec agencement d’électrodes non-régulier
Authors: François Benjamin , Gourry Jean-Christophe , Deparis Jacques
Published: March 2024

Cette étude vise à détecter de possibles fuites de lixiviat sur une décharge au moyen d’une tomographie de résistivité électrique 3D. Afin de contourner les limitations d’accès du site, nous utilisons 3 agencements d’électrodes non-réguliers en « double-U ». L’utilisation d’un algorithme d’optimisation pour la sélection des quadripôles et d’un maillage d’inversion tenant compte de la géométrie des membranes PEHD ont permis d’améliorer les résultats issus de l’inversion des données.
Imagerie d’interface barrage-fondation par inversion de forme d'onde complète
Authors: Boukraa Mohamed Aziz , Audibert Lorenzo , Bonazzoli Marcella , Haddar Houssem , Vautrin Denis
Published: March 2024

Dans le cadre de l’étude de la stabilité des barrages, la connaissance de l’interface entre le barrage et la roche revêt une grande importance. Le recours à des techniques géophysiques peut apporter des informations complémentaires par rapport aux mesures géotechniques. Nous proposons ici une méthode de traitement des mesures sismiques, l’objectif étant d'obtenir une image de l'interface entre le béton du barrage et le rocher de la fondation avec une résolution métrique. Il s’agit d’une technique de type « Full Waveform Inversion » avec optimisation de forme. Des résultats numériques utilisant des mesures synthétiques montrent la capacité de la méthode à retrouver l'interface avec une précision satisfaisante, pour un nombre limité de points de mesure et en présence de bruit.
Self-Healing Materials: Mechanisms, Characterization, and Applications: A detailed Review
Authors: Srivastava Ashish , Usha P , Al-Alawachi Sharif Fadhil Abood , Kansal Lavish , K Aravinda , Arora Deepika
Published: March 2024

There is a category of materials known as self-healing materials, which are distinguished by their inherent capacity to mend themselves in the event of internal damage or fractures. Because it possesses a built-in healing mechanism, it possesses this one-of-a-kind power. This system can react to injury in methods that range encompassing chemical reactions, physical alterations, and biological processes. The need to extend the endurance and longevity of materials used in a variety of industries, such as building, transportation, and electronics, has been a driving force behind the creation of self-healing materials. The mechanisms that are used to research self-healing materials as well as the approaches that are used to characterise them are discussed in this article. The many methods of self-healing, such as microcapsule-based healing, intrinsic healing, and extrinsic healing, are explored in this article. Intrinsic healing is also covered. In addition, the characterization methods that were utilised in order to evaluate the efficacy of the healing process, such as mechanical assessment, thermal evaluation, and microscopy, are discussed here. In addition, the prospective usages for self-healing materials in several industries, such as coatings, adhesives and related products composites, and biomedical devices, are addressed in this article. In this article, the advantages of using self-healing materials in certain applications are described such as an improvement in the materials' longevity, reliability, and sustainability.
Exploring the Future of Advanced Materials Processing: Innovations and Challenges Ahead: A Review
Authors: Sharma Avdhesh Kumar , Ramacharyulu D Atchuta , Lakhanpal Sorabh , Shakier Hussein Ghafel , Reddy Uma , Kumari Vandna
Published: March 2024

This research paper investigates the future of advanced materials processing, with a focus on the innovations and challenges that lie ahead. The study begins by exploring the current state of advanced materials processing and the latest trends in the field, including the use of advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing, to create complex geometries and novel materials. The paper then examines the challenges facing the field, including the need to develop new processing techniques that can handle a wider range of materials and produce materials with specific properties. The study also analyses the potential impact of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, on the future of materials processing. Finally, the paper concludes with a discussion of the key innovations and trends that are likely to shape the future of materials processing, including the use of sustainable materials, the development of new nanomaterials, and the integration of advanced sensors and data analytics into the manufacturing process. Overall, this research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the future of advanced materials processing and highlights the critical role that innovation will play in shaping the field in the coming years.
Semi-closed-form solutions of the van der Pol oscillator system
Authors: Kaunda Modify A. E.
Published: March 2024

Second order vector-valued nonlinear differential equations occurring in science and engineering have been considered which generally do not have closed-form solutions. Explicit incremental semi-analytical numerical solution procedures for nonlinear multiple-degree-of-freedom systems have been developed. Higher order equivalent differential equations were formulated and then subsequent values of vectors were updated using explicit Taylor series expansions. As the time-step tends to zero, the values of displacement and velocity are exact in the Taylor series expansions involving as many higher order derivatives as necessary. A typical second order differential equation considered was, the van der Pol oscillator. Further developments consisted of closed-form solutions of the van der Pol equation. What remains to be determined is the closed-form solution of displacement, which is being addressed. Further applications of the semi-analytical procedures to time-dependent systems should also include, time-independent equations that are differentiable in terms of other independent variables, such as partial differential equations that have many independent variables.
Environmental policy formulation through the establishment of food reserve regulations: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Gobel Rahmat Teguh Santoso , Muhtar Mohamad Hidayat , Hatu Dewinta Rizky R. , Hatu Ratih Ikawaty R. , Pautina Mohamad Syafri
Published: March 2024

Research into the social and environmental effects of Gorontalo Governor Regulation No. 48 of 2019, which addresses food storage, is detailed here. This research examines the extent to which these rules are in line with environmental responsibility and social fairness through a combination of normative juridical methodologies and policy analysis. The investigation revealed that, despite the best of intentions, the policies aimed at ensuring price stability and increasing food supply fail to adequately account for the impact they would have on the environment or involve local populations. For instance, the strategy does not take into account the effects of things like agricultural production patterns on environmental degradation and climate change or the carbon footprints of various distribution methods. The policy’s legitimacy and efficacy are further weakened by the limited space for public input in the design and implementation stages. The research suggests reworking regulations to incorporate criteria for ecological sustainability and public participation. This study aims to aid in the formulation of more efficient and sustainable food reserve policies by providing a more holistic understanding of food reserves as part of a larger ecological and social system.
Criticizing potential deviations in the role of environmental impact analysis after the enactment of the job creation law
Authors: Bakung Dolot Alhasni , Putri Viorizza Suciani , Muhtar Mohamad Hidayat , Dungga Weny Almoravid , Junus Nirwan
Published: March 2024

Because the implementation of sustainable environmental programmes is not viewed as optimal in terms of environmental protection, the Job Creation Law (UUCK), which was drafted using the Omnibus Law, attempts to integrate 80 laws into just one Job Creation Law that regulates multiple sectors, including the environment. This study examines how the Environmental Impact Analysis (AMDAL) in the Job Creation Law varies from the norm. This study aims to decipher how the Omnibus Law might affect AMDAL rules, spot and examine any potential role deviations, and assess the results for the environment. Literature reviews, legislation analyses, and case studies are all examples of research approaches. This study’s findings show that anomalies in the implementation of Am dal in the Omnibus Law pose a threat to environmental quality and long-term viability. This modification reduces the significance of AMDAL as a factor evaluated by the government in deciding whether or not to grant a business license. Clearer and parallel rules that prioritize sustainable environmental protection are required to offer a new legal base that safeguards and covers legal principles and standards pertaining to the environment.
Domestic wastewater masterplan for Ciamis Regency
Authors: Yogaswara Dendi , Mulyana Subhan
Published: March 2024

In Ciamis Regency, domestic wastewater is the largest pollutant entering waterways. One way to monitor and control wastewater is to improve wastewater disposal. The government has set targets in 2015-2019, including the provision of 100% drinking water coverage, a target of 0% of households occupying uninhabitable housing and settlements (slums) in urban areas, and achieving 100% sanitation. This plan aims to provide adequate sanitation facilities for domestic wastewater disposal, particularly in urban areas of the Ciamis Regency. This master plan examines the technical and technological aspects of domestic wastewater management planning. It is planned to build 4 urban-scale IPALs that will serve 20% of the urban population in the Ciamis Regency. It is planned to build 4 urban- scale IPALs in Ciamis Sub-district and one in the Banjarsari Sub-district. The main IPAL housing buildings are expected to be in Kawali Sub-district and Panjalu Sub-district. In addition, it is planned, local system services in 3 (three) IPLT service areas are planned to be implemented in stages. The first phase is the optimization of the existing IPLT (Cijeunjing IPLT), the second phase is the construction of an IPLT in the Kawali Sub-district, and the third phase is the construction of an IPLT in the Banjaranyar Sub-district. The construction of the IPLT is expected to serve around 70% of the urban population.
Certification of sustainable palm oil plantations in the co-optation of global vegetable competition: Dialogue and dialectics
Authors: Habibie Dedi Kusuma , Darwin Muhadjir , Suharko Suharko
Published: March 2024

Palm oil plantation certification is the right step for sustainable plantations globally, for this reason it is necessary to describe the implementation of sustainable palm oil plantation certification in various political, economic, social and environmental study keywords and look at the forms of cooperation and interaction that exist between palm oil plantation certification in various literacies that can be describe empirically from time to time. The bibliometric analysis technique is limited to 221 research articles published during 2002 – 2023 with the keywords Certification, Palm Oil in the economic, social, political, and environmental areas indexed by Scopus. This research focuses on abstraction analysis and content analysis of the study. The research flow was evaluated using VOSviewer 1.6.19 software. The results show a study trend that leads to certification of palm oil plantations initiated by the government and private sector as well as international institutions and the existence of certification practices for various elements of palm oil utilization and management (Producers and Consumers).
Fusion de données géophysiques (TRE et MASW) et géotechniques (granulométrie) pour la caractérisation de digues en terre
Authors: Dezert Théo , Palma-Lopes Sérgio , Courivaud Jean-Robert , Fargier Yannick , Vergniault Christophe
Published: March 2024

La bonne caractérisation des ensembles lithologiques des digues en terre constitue un enjeu majeur dans un contexte de prévention de rupture d’ouvrage. En effet, les conséquences d’un tel événement peuvent s’avérer potentiellement catastrophiques (pertes humaines, graves impacts environnementaux et économiques). Les méthodologies reconnues pour caractériser les digues en terre comprennent classiquement des méthodes de reconnaissance géophysiques et géotechniques de natures complémentaires. Ce travail de recherche présente une méthodologie de fusion permettant la combinaison de données issues de ces deux types de sources d’information. Ici, les données utilisées proviennent d’une campagne de reconnaissance menée sur une digue de canal EDF. Les résultats obtenus ont été préalablement publiés et présentés sous forme d’un article de revue internationale à comité de lecture. Cette campagne de terrain regroupe trois types d’informations : résistivités électriques, vitesses d’ondes de cisaillement et analyses granulométriques d’échantillons. La méthodologie de fusion introduite repose sur le cadre théorique des masses de croyance. Tout en tenant compte des spécificités de chaque méthode (répartition spatiale, imprécisions et incertitudes des données), cette approche de fusion permet de quantifier le niveau de conflit entre les sources d’information ainsi que d’associer un indice de confiance aux caractérisations proposées. Les résultats de la fusion obtenus, dans le cadre du cas d’étude présenté, mettent en évidence la capacité de cette méthodologie à discriminer les unités lithologiques (remblais fins ou grossiers avec brèches calcaires, socle marneux ou calcaire) ainsi qu’à localiser les positions d’interfaces entre unités et les niveaux de confiance associés. Ces résultats sont en cohérence avec les connaissances déjà disponibles sur le contexte géologique du site et mettent en évidence l’intérêt de combiner des informations issues de sources de nature différente afin de tirer profit de leur complémentarité. Ces travaux ont montré un potentiel prometteur pour cette méthode, tant sur une digue de canal que sur une levée. Ils seront poursuivis par une étude comparative de différentes méthodes de fusion et par la mise en application sur de nouveaux cas réels d’études.
On a probabilistic extension of the Oldenburger–Kolakoski sequence
Authors: Boisson Chloé , Jamet Damien , Marcovici Irène
Published: March 2024

The Oldenburger–Kolakoski sequence is the only infinite sequence over the alphabet {1, 2} that starts with 1 and is its own run-length encoding. In the present work, we take a step back from this largely known and studied sequence by introducing some randomness in the choice of the letters written. This enables us to provide some results on the convergence of the density of 1’s in the resulting sequence. When the choice of the letters is given by an infinite sequence of i.i.d. random variables or by a Markov chain, the average densities of letters converge. Moreover, in the case of i.i.d. random variables, we are able to prove that the densities even almost surely converge.
Metaheuristic algorithms for solving roman {2}-domination problem
Authors: Raju M. Alfred , Reddy P. Venkata Subba
Published: March 2024

A Roman {2}-dominating function (Rom2DF) on a graph G(V, E) is a function g : V → {0, 1, 2} of G such that for every vertex x ∈ V with g(x) = 0, either there exists a neighbor y of x with g(y) = 2 or at least two neighbors, u, v with g(u) = g(v) = 1. The value w(g) = ∑x∈V g(x) is the weight of the Rom2DF. The minimum weight of a Rom2DF of G is called the Roman {2}-domination number denoted by γ{R2}(G). Since determining γ{R2}(G) of a graph G is NP-hard and no metaheuristic algorithms have been proposed for the same, two procedures based on genetic algorithm are proposed as a solution for the Roman {2}-domination problem. One of the proposed methods employs a random initial population, while the other uses a population generated using heuristics. Experiments have been carried out on graphs generated using Erdös–Rényi model, a popular model for graph generation and Harwell Boeing (HB) dataset. The experimental results demonstrate that both approaches provide a near optimal solution which is well within the known lower and upper bounds for the problem. The experimental results further show that the procedure based on random initial population has outperformed the heuristic based procedure.
Demand forecast information sharing with manufacturer encroachment
Authors: Yan Yan , Hou Fujun , Zhang Huimin
Published: March 2024

This study explores the interplay between the manufacturer’s encroachment strategy and the retailer’s information sharing strategy in a supply chain, wherein both the upstream manufacturer and downstream retailer possess private demand forecast information. The manufacturer has the option to establish a direct selling channel to encroach on the end market, and the retailer can decide whether to share private information with the manufacturer. We consider four scenarios and derive the corresponding equilibrium outcomes of firms. Theoretical research results show that when the manufacturer opts not to encroach, neither the manufacturer nor the retailer will voluntarily share their demand information. In contrast, if the manufacturer encroaches, they will reach an information sharing agreement under certain conditions. Once such an agreement is reached, the manufacturer can benefit more from encroachment. If information sharing is not achieved, the manufacturer encroaches only if his unit direct selling cost is lower than a certain threshold. In addition, fierce competition among channels encourages the manufacturer to encroach. Based on the abovementioned works, we conduct numerical studies to analyze the impact of forecast accuracy on the profits and information sharing value of the manufacturer, the retailer and the whole supply chain. These results offer valuable management insights for firms. For example, the improved forecast accuracy is beneficial to both firms. Moreover, as the channel substitution rate increases, not only the possibility of manufacturer encroachment increases, but both the manufacturer and the whole supply chain also get more profits from it.
Increased Rates of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sinnott Colleen M. , Freret Taylor S. , Clapp Mark A. , Little Sarah E.
Published: March 2024

Objective Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are common complications associated with severe maternal and neonatal morbidity. One goal of prenatal care, especially at term, is to screen for HDP. As treatment of HDP centers on delivery when appropriate, timely diagnosis is crucial. We postulated that reduced in-person visits during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may have resulted in delayed diagnosis of HDP with concomitant higher rates of maternal morbidity. We sought to investigate the prevalence of HDP during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as median gestational age at time of delivery as compared with the prepandemic median.

Study Design This was a retrospective cohort analysis comparing singleton deliveries at four large-volume hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic (April–July 2020 during a statewide “stay-at-home” order) to those in a pre-COVID era (April–July 2019). Deliveries complicated by HDP were identified by International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision codes. Rates of HDP and markers of severe disease were the primary outcomes compared between the groups; multivariate regression was used to calculate the odds ratio of severe disease among women with any diagnosis of HDP.

Results The cohort included 9,974 deliveries: 5,011 in 2020 and 4,963 in 2019. Patient characteristics (age, body mass index, race, ethnicity, and insurance type) did not differ significantly between the groups. There was an increase in HDP during the COVID era (9.0 vs. 6.9%; p < 0.01), which was significant even when controlling for patient parity (odds ratio = 1.41, 95% confidence interval: 1.20–1.66). Among women with HDP, gestational age at delivery did not differ between the cohorts, nor did the proportion of patients with severe disease.

Conclusion We found a statistically significant increase in the rate of HDP during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there was no change in the proportion of severe disease, suggesting that this increase did not significantly impact clinical morbidity.

Key Points
A Rare but Fatal Behçet Variant: The Hughes–Stovin Syndrome—Successful Case Report and New Evidence from Literature Review
Authors: Ascoli Marchetti Andrea , Belvivere Lorella , Argirò Renato , Kroegler Barbara , Oddi Fabio M. , Pennetta Federico , Giorgi Alice de , Fazzini Stefano , Morosetti Daniele , Triggianese Paola , Greco Elisabetta , D'Antonio Arianna , Coccia Ilaria , Tesauro Manfredi , Sangiuolo Federica , Ippoliti Arnaldo
Published: March 2024

Hughes–Stovin syndrome (HSS) is a rare potentially fatal vasculitis supposedly belonging to the spectrum of Behçet disease without ocular involvement. HSS tends to play by a temporal pattern, starting with thrombosis and followed by formation of pulmonary aneurysms. Since its mortality can reach 25% of cases, early recognition and appropriate therapy represent the major clinical challenges. We describe a rare case of HSS successfully treated via multidisciplinary management by an endovascular approach and immunosuppressive therapy.
Community-Acquired Infection among the Hospitalized Renal Stone Patients
Authors: Mahmood Alan Ahmed , Qadir Baram Mustafa , Muhammad Jabbar Abdul , Abdulla Hardi Tofiq , Thomas Noel Vinay , Diyya A. Salomy Monica
Published: March 2024

Background One of the most prevalent long-term kidney disorders in high-blood-pressure patients is nephrolithiasis. This study involves collecting urine and renal stones from patients with urinary tract infection (UTI) to analyze how hospitalized patients with UTI contract community infections. The samples were collected at the Sulaimaniyah Surgical Teaching Hospital urology and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) staff. It is understood that UTIs contribute to the formation of kidney stones.

Methods Screened and cultured urine requires careful collection, transport, and interpretation. Urine samples were collected from the patients with UTI at the Sulaimaniyah teaching hospital for culturing. Urine cultures containing pyuria and bacteria indicate UTIs. Microorganisms were studied, inoculated on blood, MacConkey, and mannitol salt agar, and biochemically identified. A bacterial and microbiological examination of kidney stones was conducted at the Sulaymaniyah Surgical Teaching Hospital's ESWL and urology departments. Clean renal stone samples with ethanol for 1 minute, crush using sterile tongs, then culture in 37°C thioglycolate broth for 48 hours. Specimens inoculated on blood, MacConkey, and mannitol salt agars resulted in isolation of staphylococci, streptococci, and Staphylococcus spp.

Results In this study, 17 of 48 samples showed microbial growth. Each of Enterococcus and Micrococcus spp. comprised 12.5% of eight renal intact stone samples. Three of 14 renal intact stone samples showed microbial growth with 7 and 14% for Enterococcus and Escherichia coli, respectively. From eight urine samples before and after ESWL procedure, E. coli isolation incidents doubled from 12.5 to 25%, while Staphylococcus spp. remained the same at 12.5%. Out of 10 UTI urine samples, 20% Staphylococcus spp., E. coli, and 10% Pseudomonas spp. were isolated.

Conclusion This study related renal stones to E. coli, enterococci, Micrococcus luteus, and staphylococci. After ESWL, the urine samples revealed E. coli growth, whereas comparable urine samples before ESWL did not. Thus, urinary infections can cause kidney stones. Eighteen of 48 kidney stone samples tested positive for E. coli, 22 for staphylococci, 11 for enterococci, 5 for Pseudomonas, 5 for Proteus, and 5 for micrococci.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Cullivan Sarah , Cronin Eleanor , Gaine Sean
Published: March 2024

Systemic sclerosis is a multisystem connective tissue disease that is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Visceral organ involvement is common in patients with systemic sclerosis and occurs independently of skin manifestations. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is an important and prevalent complication of systemic sclerosis. The clinical classification of PH cohorts conditions with similar pathophysiological mechanisms into one of five groups. While patients with systemic sclerosis can manifest with a spectrum of pulmonary vascular disease, notable clinical groups include group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) associated with connective tissues disease, PAH with features of capillary/venous involvement, group 2 PH associated with left heart disease, and group 3 PH associated with interstitial lung disease. Considerable efforts have been made to advance screening methods for PH in systemic sclerosis including the DETECT and ASIG (Australian Scleroderma Interest Group) composite algorithms. Current guidelines recommend annual assessment of the risk of PAH as early recognition may result in attenuated hemodynamic impairment and improved survival. The treatment of PAH associated with systemic sclerosis requires a multidisciplinary team including a PH specialist and a rheumatologist to optimize immunomodulatory and PAH-specific therapies. Several potential biomarkers have been identified and there are several promising PAH therapies on the horizon such as the novel fusion protein sotatercept. This chapter provides an overview of PH in systemic sclerosis, with a specific focus on group 1 PAH.
New Nomenclature for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Understanding Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease, Metabolic Dysfunction- and Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease, and Their Implications in Clinical Practice
Authors: Canivet Clémence M. , Boursier Jérôme , Loomba Rohit
Published: March 2024

In June 2023, under the patronage of the American Association for Study of Liver Disease, the European Association for Study of the Liver, and the Asociación Latinoamericana para el Estudio del Hígado with the involvement of 236 participants from around the world, a new nomenclature and definition for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been proposed. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) was defined as presence of hepatic steatosis and at least one of the cardiometabolic risk factors with alcohol intake less than 140 g/wk for women and 210 g/wk for men and no other causes of steatosis. A new entity called combined metabolic dysfunction- and alcohol-associated liver disease (MetALD) was created outside of pure MASLD for patients with metabolic dysfunction and alcohol intake greater than that allowed for MASLD (i.e., 140–350 g/wk for women and 210–420 g/wk for men). Recent studies have confirmed a 95% overlap between NAFLD and the new MASLD diagnostic criteria. Natural history, biomarkers, and thresholds of alcohol intake in MetALD group remains to be studied and validated.
Diversifying Away from Extractives: The Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese Capital and Industrialisation in the Kyrgyz Republic
Authors: Calabrese Linda
Published: March 2024

With its infrastructural offer and emphasis on connectivity, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) promises to support developing countries aiming to industrialise. The literature on industrialisation has identified a key role for infrastructure, markets and the state. This article looks at the case of Kyrgyzstan, one of the early members of the initiative, to understand the circumstances under which the BRI can facilitate manufacturing growth. Notwithstanding the presence of accessible markets and financial support for infrastructure, Kyrgyzstan has made limited headway in its industrialisation agenda. This can be attributed to the particular political economy of Kyrgyzstan, which predominantly relies on extracting rent from the mining and other sectors and consequently fails to allocate resources towards industrialisation. Though purportedly interested in revitalising the industrial sector, Kyrgyz politicians have primarily focused on extractive industries, hence impeding diversification and industrialisation efforts.
Managing and Incentivising Research Impact: Evidence from Australia
Authors: Newman Joshua
Published: March 2024

Views on the impact of academic research are divided, with some voices advocating for more impact and others calling attention to pathologies of the “impact agenda”. One point of interest to most observers is the degree of alignment between academics, who do the research, and university leaders, who control rules and resources relating to research. Using a survey of academics and interviews with university leaders at a large, representative, research-focused university in Australia, this article contributes to the scholarship on research impact by investigating and analysing perceptions of what impact is and how it can be achieved. The study finds that in this case, there was significant disagreement between academics and university leaders on the meaning of impact and how it should be incentivised. These disagreements present a serious obstacle for universities advancing impact strategies and create vulnerabilities for conflict between university management and academic staff as envisioned by critics of the impact agenda.
PMMA and PVP blended nanofibers with incorporated antimicrobial agent: Spectroscopy and mass spectrometry characterization
Authors: Plokhotnichenko A. M. , Karachevtsev V. A. , Pashynska V. A. , Kuzema P. O.
Published: March 2024

Electrospun polymeric nanofibers incorporated with some medicines or biologically active nanoparticles have a huge range of various applications in biomedical fields such as wound dressing, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. Blending several polymers with different properties allows one to obtain a new material with improved physicochemical and mechanical characteristics, as well as to control the incorporation and release of medical agents, including antimicrobial, antifungal, and other substances. In this work, a novel approach to prepare a blend of two polymers [polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)] to produce biocompatible nanofibers with incorporated antibacterial agents — phenylalanine or silver nanoparticles is proposed. The diameter of the obtained nanofibers is in the range of 2–4 μm. Antimicrobial agents are incorporated in PVP in an aqueous solution, then the prepared adduct is dried and mixed with PMMA in an organic solvent. In this nanofiber mat, PMMA provides the mechanical strength of the mat and assists in the gradual release of the antimicrobial agents. The formation of the PVP:PMMA nanofibers with incorporated antimicrobial agents at different stages was monitored by spectroscopy. The release of antimicrobial agents from the nanofibers mat during wetting was studied and confirmed by spectroscopy and mass spectrometry investigations.