bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure-induced transitions in FePS$_3$: Structural, magnetic and electronic properties
Authors: Deng Shiyu , Chen Siyu , Monserrat Bartomeu , Artacho Emilio , Saxena Siddharth
Published: July 2023

FePS_33 is a prototype van der Waals layered antiferromagnet and a Mott insulator under ambient conditions, which has been recently reported to go through a pressure-induced dimensionality crossover and an insulator-to-metal transition. These transitions also lead to the appearance of a novel magnetic metallic state. To further understand these emergent structural and physical properties, we have performed a first-principles study using van der Waals and Hubbard UU corrected density functional theory including a random structure search. Our computational study attempts to interpret the experimental coexistence of the low- and intermediate-pressure phases and we predict a novel high-pressure phase with distinctive dimensionality and different possible origins of metallicity.
Therapeutic Appropriateness of Cariprazine in the Management of
Schizophrenia: Experts’ Opinion using a Delphi Approach
Authors: Dell’Osso Bernardo , Bellomo Antonello , Maria Conca Andreas Pietro , Salvi Virginio , Siracusano Alberto , Zaffora Carmelo , De Berardis Domenico , Di Giannantonio Massimo
Published: July 2023

Background:

Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder whose therapeutic objectives are
aimed at reducing symptoms and improving patient’s quality of life. First- and second-generation antipsychotics
present numerous side effects. Recently introduced in the treatment of schizophrenia,
cariprazine has shown to improve positive and negative symptoms as well as cognitive impairment,
with good tolerability.

Objective:

To assess the level of consensus among Italian psychiatrists in relation to the use of
cariprazine in the treatment of schizophrenia by using the Delphi technique.

Method:

A Delphi study was undertaken between January and July 2022. Two questionnaires were
consecutively sent to a panel of 97 psychiatrists from all over Italy, of which 81 actively participated,
anonymously, in at least one of the two consultations with a sufficiently high response rate (83%).

Results:

Broad consensus in terms of the efficacy and safety of cariprazine in the treatment of schizophrenia
during all phases of the disorder. The young first-episode schizophrenia patient with or without
substance abuse seems to be an excellent candidate for cariprazine therapy. In addition, the lack of
side effects makes cariprazine a suitable drug for adult and elderly patients with schizophrenia. However,
there is still limited experience with the use of cariprazine, along with little knowledge of the
most recent real-life data.

Conclusions:

These results could encourage wider dissemination of evidence-based practices with the
final aim of optimizing the clinical use of cariprazine in patients with schizophrenia.
Infrastructure of Basketball Players Examination of Ethical Decision-Making Attitudes
Authors: ÇELİK Zekeriya , GÜMÜŞDAĞ Hayrettin
Published: July 2023

Aim: In this study, it was aimed to examine the differences in moral decision-making attitudes of the athletes participating in basketball competitions according to some variables. Method: The study group consists of a total of 232 athletes, 60 women and 172 men, who compete in sports clubs in Denizli province as licensed. The data were delivered to the participants via Google Forms and their voluntary participation in the research was taken as basis. The form used to collect the relevant data in the study consisted of two parts. In the first part, demographic information developed by the researcher, and in the second part, "Moral Decision-Making Attitudes Scale in Infrastructure Sports", which was developed by Lee, Whitehead and Ntoumanis (2007) to measure the moral decision-making attitudes of athletes and adapted to Turkish culture by Gürpınar (2014), was used. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using the SPSS 25.0 package program. 25.90% of the participants are female and 74.10% are male. Considering the average age, the largest group with 70 people, 30.2% is 13-14 age group, in the category section, with 46 people, 19.83% is U17 group, and at education level, with 101 people, 43.53% is secondary school. forms the group. Results: As a result of the research, when the scores of the athletes from the Moral Decision-Making Attitudes in Youth Sports Scale are examined, it is seen that the total scale score average is 34.80. While the average score in Adopting Cheating sub-dimension was 12.45, it was determined as 9.17 in adopting competitiveness sub-dimension and 13.18 in Protecting Winning Fairly sub-dimension. Conclusion: It can be said that while basketball youth athletes support the sub-dimension of Adopting Fair Wins and Adopting Cheating, they are undecided in the sub-dimension of Adopting Competitiveness. It is seen that there is no significant difference according to gender. According to the results obtained, it is seen that there is an intelligible and positive relationship between the age and competition categories of the athletes and all the sub-dimensions of the scale. A statistically significant difference was found at the p<0.05 level between their educational status, the sub-dimensions of Adopting Cheating, Adopting Competitiveness, and the total scale score. No significant difference was found in the sub-dimension of Maintaining Fair Earnings according to education level.
Efektivitas Kombinasi Program Latihan SAQ dan Complex Training Terhadap Power Tungkai Personel Pemadam Kebakaran PT Adaro Indonesia
Authors: Atmojo Bagus Tri , Ali Mohammad Arif , Sahri Sahri , Kurniawan Andi , Kurniawati Dewi Marfu'ah
Published: July 2023

Masalah: Personel pemadam kebakaran (Damkar) dituntut memiliki komponen kebugaran jasmani diatas rata-rata. Daya ledak otot tungkai merupakan salah satu komponen kebugaran jasmani yang penting untuk personel Damkar.

Tujuan: Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui apakah ada efek dari program latihan Kombinasi SAQ dan complex training (KSCT) terhadap power tungkai pada personel pemadam kebakaran. Metode: Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah quasi experimental, dengan desain penelitian one group pre-test post-test. Teknik sampling yang digunakan adalah purposive dengan kriteria: 1) Anggota Damkar, 2) Masuk dalam penugasan tim Indonesian Fire & Rescue Challenge, 3) Mampu menyelesaikan program latihan KSCT. Program latihan KSCT diberikan selama 3 minggu dengan frekuensi latihan 2 kali setiap minggu, dengan prinsip latihan progressive overload. Uji statistik dilakukan menggunakan aplikasi SPSS 26.

Hasil: Peningkatan signifikan daya ledak otot tungkai setelah diberikan program latihan KSCT pada personel damkar, pre-test (7,2) dan post-test (7,5), dengan nilai p<0.05.

Kesimpulan: Penelitian ini membuktikan bahwa program latihan KSCT mampu meningkatkan daya ledak otot tungkai. Namun terdapat kelemahan pada penelitian ini yaitu jangka waktu penelitian yang kurang panjang sehingga hasil dari program latihan tidak maksimal meskipun mengalami peningkatan. Maka dari itu peneliti menyarankan pada penelitian selanjutnya agar menambah jangka waktu penelitian.
HASIL BELAJAR SISWA DITINJAU DARI SELF-CONFIDENCE MATEMATIKA KELAS VIII SMP
Authors: Jelsela Bella , Hamdani Hamdani , Munaldus Munaldus
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the mathematics learning outcomes of class VIII students of SMP Negeri 01 Lumar in terms of Self-Confidence. The research subjects came from 20 students of class VIII A of SMP Negeri 01 Lumar in the 2021/2022 academic year who were selected by taking into account the considerations of the teacher in the field of mathematics studies. The research method used in this study is a qualitative descriptive research method, in the form of a case study. Collecting data in this study using a Self-Confidence Questionnaire, written test and interview guide. The results of the student self-confidence questionnaire showed that 11 students were in the high category, 5 students were in the medium category, and 4 students were in the low category. Student learning outcomes in the number pattern material are high. There are 15 students in the high category, 3 students in the medium category and 2 students in the low category. It can be seen from the percentage of student learning outcomes that fall into the high category above the average, which is 81.56%.
Resenha do livro The Unintended Consequences of Peace: Peaceful Borders and Illicit Transnational Flows
Authors: Ferreira Marcos Alan S. V.
Published: July 2023

As fronteiras são extensivamente estudadas nas Relações Internacionais como um dos elementos centrais que delimitam a existência de um Estado-nação. Mais especificamente, muito se discute sobre o papel delas nas temáticas atinentes à segurança internacional e defesa, tal como tem sido visto inclusive na academia brasileira em anos recentes. Nas últimas décadas, o aumento da interdependência política, econômica e política trouxe consigo uma percepção de que as fronteiras pacificadas por arranjos cooperativos gozariam de maior controle por parte do Estado. Consequentemente, ameaças à segurança nacional diminuiriam na medida que as fronteiras fossem mais pacificadas. Contudo, a recente e instigante análise promovida por Arie Kacowicz e colegas em “The Unintended Consequences of Peace: Peaceful Borders and Illicit Transnational Flows” sugere um caminho inverso em uma detida análise de cinco regiões do planeta.
Uso público não comercial das patentes de interesse da defesa nacional
Authors: Da Silva Roberto Viana , Pinheiro-Machado Rita
Published: July 2023

Considerando a proposta legislativa de inclusão do mecanismo do uso público não comercial das patentes na lei de propriedade industrial, este artigo tem por objetivo verificar, por meio de uma pesquisa empírica, a relação entre o uso público não comercial das patentes e a inovação em defesa. De abordagem qualitativa, o estudo teve como alvo de inferência o uso público não comercial das patentes nos Estados Unidos, uma vez que é o país com maior prática e expressivo número de ações judiciais, o que possibilitou a obtenção de amostra de casos de invenções patenteadas que foram usadas sem a autorização dos titulares. Os resultados sugerem que o uso público não comercial das patentes pode incentivar a inovação, permitindo que uma tecnologia civil patenteada seja customizada para atender aos interesses da defesa nacional.
The Implementation of Conventional Retailer Membership Cards In The Perspective of Islamic Business Ethics
Authors: Arifin Zainal
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to review the implementation of membership cards in buying and selling transactions at a conventional retailer in Metro City, Lampung, and its use in terms of Islamic business ethics.Design/Method/Approach: This qualitative field study uses primary and secondary data sources. The study used interviews, observation, and documentation to collect the data. In total, there were six respondents participated in this study. The collected data is then analyzed using inductive reasoning as the data analysis technique.Findings: Based on the research results, it was found that the member card implementation is used for a discount program obtained from collecting points from each transaction which can later be redeemed for various compensations and prizes. Such a scheme appears as a strategy to captivate customer in the form of loyalty issue. This finding indicates an incompatibility with the principles of Islamic business ethics. The implications of this research show that using member cards as a transaction attraction widely applied to various contemporary retailers is not in line with the principles of the sharia economics laws.Organally/Value: The novelty value(s) of this study concern filling the gap of how the member card strategy is seen from Islamic business ethics. The findings are expected to help business practitioners, policymakers, and academics to understand the implementation of various modern business strategies that do not conflict with Islamic characteristics.
The role of ICTs on the function of sleep and its effects on learning and brai
Authors: Sevasti Kapsi  , Spyridoula Katsantoni
Published: July 2023

Numerous strategies have the potential to improve learning. Since memory is a fundamental cognitive skill that underpins learning, many approaches are employed in education to enhance it. If learning is a natural process, does this mean that there is a natural mechanism that supports learning? It is confirmed in this review that sleep is such a mechanism. According to the population's age, various effects of sleep on the brain and learning are supported by the research on this topic. For proper brain development and cognition, sleep is a crucial activity. In order to effectively exploit this knowledge and create fresh educational initiatives, additional studies need be conducted.
Application of universal cooperative principles among cooperatives in Ile Oluji
Authors: Mudasiru Olawale Ibrahim
Published: July 2023

This paper understudied the development of cooperative principles globally and the context of how they are localized among cooperatives in Ile Oluji, Ondo State, Nigeria. There were no significant variations in the activities of the Cooperatives understudied and the stated ICA 1995 Principles save for “cooperation among cooperatives” and “education, training and information” of the general public about the benefit of cooperatives. Observations from this study were that although, cooperative societies understudied had their laws tailored to many of the ICA Principles 1995, they have minimal association with secondary and tertiary cooperatives in and outside their local area. The need for formal education of Staff and Executives of these cooperative societies was recommended. Likewise, the need for cooperatives to intensify information to the public about the benefit of cooperatives.
Dinamika Permainan Lato-Lato Perspektif Antropologi
Authors: Batubara Muhammad Zusanri
Published: July 2023

The viral lato-lato game has become a hot topic of conversation in Indonesia. A traditional game that became popular again in late 2022 in Indonesia. The lato-lato game was played around 1960 in America and Europe, while in Indonesia it began to be played around 1990. The lato-lato game is loved by many people ranging from adults, teenagers, to children. This game was tested by the President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo and the Governor of West Java Ridwan Kamil during a working visit to Subang Regency. The purpose of this research is to examine the lato-lato phenomenon in Indonesia, the pros and cons of lato-lato games, and gadgets vs lato-lato. The research method used is qualitative research. Data collection in this research uses secondary data sources obtained through literature studies by tracing various accesses on the internet such as news, journals, Instagram, and relevant websites. The data analysis used is descriptive data analysis technique by describing, analyzing, and interpreting the data obtained. The findings in this research are that the lato-lato game began to develop in December 2022. The virality of this game is inseparable from the influence of game producers and social media. The revocation of PPKM (Enforcement of Restrictions on Community Activities) due to Covid-19 by the Indonesian government became a turning point for the community to move and interact with other communities. Through lato-lato games, children are influenced to leave gadgets so that they interact and socialize with the surrounding environment.
Konstruksi Sosial Praktek Kesetaraan Gender di Wahidiyah
Authors: Sardjuningsih
Published: July 2023

The practice of gender equality in religious settings is often the subject of controversy and debate. This article examines the social construction of gender equality practices implemented in Wahidiyah, an Islamic religious institution that includes Shalawat Wahidiyyah, Islamic Boarding Schools, and Islamic Education Institutions, from kindergarten to university level. This study uses a sociological approach and Social Construction theory analysis to understand how the practice of gender equality in Wahidiyah is realized and understood by its congregation. Through qualitative data collection involving interviews, observations, and analysis of relevant documents, this study analyzed various aspects of social construction involved in the practice of gender equality in Wahidiyah. The results show that the practice of gender equality in Wahidiyah is a social reality that is deliberately built to dynamise the organization. The selection of leadership figures in institutions under Wahidiyah is based on individual qualifications and competencies regardless of gender. This social construction is seen by the congregation as a vehicle for healthy competition, where every congregation who has the qualifications and competencies in accordance with the needs of the organization has the opportunity to become part of the leadership. However, it is important to note that this pattern was not based on open elections. Instead, these individuals are appointed by the Muallif, taking into account loyalty, ability, and relevant educational qualifications. The practice of gender equality in Wahidiyah, in this way, reflects the existence of social constructs that lead to the building of a dynamic and inclusive organization. This article contributes to broadening our understanding of the practice of gender equality among Muslims, particularly in the Pesantren context. By focusing on aspects of social construction, this article presents a more comprehensive perspective on how the practice of gender equality in Wahidiyah is implemented and interpreted through its congregation.
ARANSEMEN HYMNE PILIHAN VOL. 2
Authors: Iswanto
Published: July 2023

Aransemen musik dapat digunakan untuk berbagai keperluan musikal. Buku ini menyajikan beberapa aransemen musik yang digunakan dalam Ibadah. Formasi musik yang digunakan ialah ensambel sederhana dengan tambahan violin dan flute. Melodi dimainkan oleh piano dengan akord yang juga dapat digunakan bersamaan dengan organ.
Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles by Open Vessel Ageing Process
Authors: Majeed Najwa Saber , Naji Duaa Mahammed
Published: July 2023

Nano-crystalline iron oxide nanoparticles (magnetite) was synthesized by open vessel ageing process. The iron chloride solution was prepared by mixing deionized water and iron chloride tetrahydrate. The product was characterized by X-Ray, Surface area and pore volume by Brunauer-Emmet-Teller, Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FTIR)  .  The results showed that the XRD in compatibility of the prepared iron oxide (magnetite) with the general  structure of standard iron oxide, and in Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, it is strong crests in 586 bands, because of  the expansion vibration manner related to the metal oxygen absorption band (Fe–O bonds in the crystals of iron oxide). The results show that the prepared nano iron oxide is with average crystal size 75.92 nm,  surface area was 85.97 m2/g and the pore volume  was found equal to 0.1566 cm3/
Quality Analysis of Matrix Masking of Digital Audio Data
Authors: Grigoriev E. , Sergeev A.
Published: July 2023

This article considered the guarantee of confidentiality task of audio information transmitted over a packet communication channel. Domain analysis showed, that in most cases cryptographical method used for guarantee of confidentiality of audio information, however, along with them, matrix methods of protective coding used, with implementation on FPGA or DSP processors. These methods, using random matrices, impose additional instrumental errors during decoding. The purpose of the study: is to assess the quality of protective coding ‒ masking of audio data by quasi-orthogonal structured matrices. The proposed method of masking digital audio information by quasi-orthogonal matrices differs from the known ones in predictable results and simplity of implementation. An alternative approach to the classical use of metrics is proposed for evaluating the result of masking. It is based on the analysis of the spectral component of the signal. It is shown that masking with a square Mersenne ‒ Walsh matrix brings digital audio information, presented in the form of a matrix, to a form close in spectrum to white noise. This reliably protects it in the communication channel from unauthorized access. The obtained results showed that the proposed method is promising and suggests the study of the influence of the choice of orthogonal matrix structures and their sizes on the results of masking.
Development of an Accessibility Testing System for the Virtual Machine Deployment Service in the Cloud
Authors: Marchenko A. , Shchemelinin D.
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a developed system for testing the accessibility of the virtual machine deployment service in the cloud. The methods used for monitoring cloud systems based on open-source solutions such as Kubernetes, Prometheus, and Selenium are discussed. The key stages of the system design are described, including requirements gathering and analysis, architecture, and implementation features. This system allows for the prevention of potential issues before they arise, as well as increasing IT service reliability. Integration with open-source systems helps to reduce the cost of system development and operation and speeds up implementation time. Additionally, this system can be quickly adapted and customized to meet specific needs. To analyze the feasibility of building the system, production statistics of virtual machine reservations were collected using the Prometheus monitoring system.
A Method for Time Characteristics Calculating in the Service Platforms of Infocommunication Transactional Services with Parallel Requests Processing
Authors: Redrugina N.
Published: July 2023

This paper addresses the problem of combining loosely coupled services into a single workflow and investigates methods for calculating its time characteristics. The goal of the study is to provide quality control over service quality and to identify bottlenecks in the information system. In addition to the analysis of request service processes in chains of local transactions, the possibility of introducing mass service tools, such as paralleling service by Fork-Join system, which can increase the efficiency of service and improve the performance of the system is considered. The paper considers the mathematical apparatus of Jackson networks, which is used to determine the time characteristics of the workflow of the transaction system as a network of mass service systems. The main result of the research is the development and presentation of a mathematical tool for determining the time characteristics of the workflow of a transactional system. The developed mathematical apparatus can be used to calculate the time characteristics of work processes in the developed and operated information systems, to ensure a high level of service quality.
Quality Improvement in Increasing Public Trust Using the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) Method
Authors: Baharun Hasan , Hasanah Rizkiyah
Published: July 2023

This article discusses quality improvement in increasing public trust in MI Ihyauddiniyah. This study used a qualitative case study approach, with the research subjects consisting of the school principal and several deputy heads. Data collection techniques using interviews, documentation, and observation. Data analysis techniques using data reduction, data presentation, and concluding. This research focuses on describing quality improvement in increasing public trust using the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) method of researchers at MI Ihyauddiniyah. The research data was obtained through interviews and observation, and documentation. In the next stage, the researcher checked the validity of the data, which was carried out by extending participation, persistence in observation, triangulation, and questionnaires to parents of students. To get more accurate and accountable results, the researchers interviewed the deputy head of student affairs, deputy head of infrastructure, and teachers at MI Ihyauddiniyah. The results showed that quality improvement using the FMEA method increased public trust. The FMEA measurement process is focused on three main things, which are the main components in the management process of educational institutions. The three components are a quality assurance system for teaching staff, a quality assurance system for learning facilities and infrastructure, and increasing support from the community, through this process.
O que dizem os estudos sobre competências socioemocionais: uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Barbosa Marinalva de Sousa
Published: July 2023

Este estudo é uma revisão de literatura realizada durante a realização do projeto de pesquisa para o doutorado da autora que tem como objetivo apresentar o que a literatura tem produzido sobre competências socioemocionais. Buscou-se os dados em três bases: LILACS, Periódicos da CAPES e Scielo utilizando os descritores “competências socioemocionais” ou “habilidades socioemocionais” e “desenvolvimento” e “estratégias”. Estabeleceu-se como critérios de inclusão literatura com o descritor principal “competências socioemocionais” com ou sem os descritores adjacentes; literatura produzida nos últimos cinco anos, texto completo disponível e como critério de exclusão figurou revisões de literatura. Inicialmente foram encontrados 89, todavia após remover os artigos duplicados e aplicar os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, restaram 45 artigos para análise no período de 2018 a 2022. As categorias utilizadas para análise foram Competências socioemocionais, desenvolvimento de competências socioemocionais e estratégias de desenvolvimento de competências socioemocionais. Os resultados apontam que para desenvolver competências socioemocionais é preciso conhecer o contexto para embasar o planejamento, conhecer o processo de desenvolvimento para escolher as estratégias eficazes e conhecer os instrumentos de avaliação. Em síntese, são necessários planejamento, execução e avaliação.
Urticaria and Beyond
Authors: Kimber Evan
Published: July 2023

HONING in on urticaria and other mast cell driven diseases, experts at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress 2023 presented a forward-thinking session in one of the most insightful symposia from the hybrid meeting hosted in Hamburg, Germany. Feeding into the over-arching congress motto, “pathways from precision medicine to personalised healthcare in allergy and asthma,” the speakers outlined what the future holds for targeting cells and identifying remission, amongst other topics in this field.
Investigating the Detection Capability of Acoustic Emission Monitoring to Identify Imperfections Produced by the Metal Active Gas (MAG) Welding Process
Authors: Griffin James , Jones Steven , Perumal Bama , Perrin Carl
Published: July 2023

Welding inspection is a critical process that can be severely time-consuming, resulting in productivity delays, especially when destructive or invasive processes are required. This paper defines the novel approach to investigate the physical correlation between common imperfections found in arc welding and the propensity to determine these through the identification of signatures using acoustic emission sensors. Through a set of experiments engineered to induce prominent imperfections (cracks and other anomalies) using a popular welding process and the use of AE technology (both airborne and contact), it provides confirmation that the verification of physical anomalies can indeed be identified through variations in obtained noise frequency signatures. This in situ information provides signals during and after solidification to inform operators of the deposit/HAZ integrity to support the advanced warning of unwanted anomalies and of whether the weld/fabrication process should be halted to undertake rework before completing the fabrication. Experimentation was carried out based on an acceptable set of parameters where extracted data from the sensors were recorded, analysed, and compared with the resultant microstructure. This may allow signal phenomena to be captured and catalogued for future use in referencing against known anomalies.
Leishmania Seroprevalence in Dogs: Comparing Shelter and Domestic Communities
Authors: Afonso Paulo , Coelho Ana Cláudia , Quintas Hélder , Cardoso Luís
Published: July 2023

Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a chronic, systemic, and often severe disease. The main causative agent of CanL is a protozoan parasite, Leishmania infantum, with phlebotomine sand flies acting as vectors. In Europe and other continents, L. infantum is also responsible for leishmaniosis in other animals, such as cats, horses, and humans. In Portugal, animal and human leishmaniosis is endemic, and high prevalence levels of infections and disease have been reported in dogs. There is a prejudice against stray animals and also those housed in shelters, assuming they have higher levels of infection with vector-borne pathogens, including L. infantum, when compared to domestic animals. In northeastern Portugal, serum samples were obtained from March to May 2022 in three shelters (n = 179) and thirteen veterinary clinics (n = 164), resulting in 343 dogs being analyzed for antibodies to Leishmania spp. by the direct agglutination test (DAT). The overall seroprevalence was 9.9%, with 15.2% seroprevalence in domestic dogs and 5.0% in the shelter ones (p = 0.003). The fact that shelter dogs had a lower seroprevalence could be explained by more regular veterinary care provided in shelters regarding preventive measures, including insecticides with an antifeeding effect, in comparison with domestic dogs.
Avian Leukosis: Will We Be Able to Get Rid of It?
Authors: Fandiño Sergio , Gomez-Lucia Esperanza , Benítez Laura , Doménech Ana
Published: July 2023

Avian leukosis viruses (ALVs) have been virtually eradicated from commercial poultry. However, some niches remain as pockets from which this group of viruses may reemerge and induce economic losses. Such is the case of fancy, hobby, backyard chickens and indigenous or native breeds, which are not as strictly inspected as commercial poultry and which have been found to harbor ALVs. In addition, the genome of both poultry and of several gamebird species contain endogenous retroviral sequences. Circumstances that support keeping up surveillance include the detection of several ALV natural recombinants between exogenous and endogenous ALV-related sequences which, combined with the well-known ability of retroviruses to mutate, facilitate the emergence of escape mutants. The subgroup most prevalent nowadays, ALV-J, has emerged as a multi-recombinant which uses a different receptor from the previously known subgroups, greatly increasing its cell tropism and pathogenicity and making it more transmissible. In this review we describe the ALVs, their different subgroups and which receptor they use to infect the cell, their routes of transmission and their presence in different bird collectivities, and the immune response against them. We analyze the different systems to control them, from vaccination to the progress made editing the bird genome to generate mutated ALV receptors or selecting certain haplotypes.
Smart Structures Innovations Using Robust Control Methods
Authors: Moutsopoulou Amalia , Stavroulakis Georgios E. , Petousis Markos , Vidakis Nectarios , Pouliezos Anastasios
Published: July 2023

This study’s goal is to utilize robust control theory to effectively mitigate structural oscillations in smart structures. While modeling the structures, two-dimensional finite elements are used to account for system uncertainty. Advanced control methods are used to completely reduce vibration. Complete vibration suppression is achieved using advanced control techniques. In comparison to traditional control approaches, Hinfinity techniques offer the benefit of being easily adaptable to issues with multivariate systems. It is challenging to simultaneously optimize robust performance and robust stabilization. One technique that approaches the goal of achieving robust performance in mitigating structural oscillations in smart structures is H-infinity control. H-infinity control empowers control designers by enabling them to utilize traditional loop-shaping techniques on the multi-variable frequency response. This approach enhances the robustness of the control system, allowing it to better handle uncertainties and disturbances while achieving desired performance objectives. By leveraging H-infinity control, control designers can effectively shape the system’s frequency response to enhance stability, tracking performance, disturbance rejection, and overall robustness.
“Pretty in Pink”—The Pink Color in Architecture and the Built Environment: Symbolism, Traditions, and Contemporary Applications
Authors: Tarajko-Kowalska Justyna , Kowalski Przemysław
Published: July 2023

The main goal of this article is to summarize and present the most important facts concerning the use of the pink color in the built environment of the 20th and 21st centuries, considering its symbolic, functional, and decorative aspects, with particular emphasis on Western cultures. This monograph of color is aimed to contribute to a better understanding of the place and meaning of pink in the contemporary architectural space and to allow architects to use this color with greater awareness of its characteristic features. The results of the analysis of over 100 pink buildings and spaces, collected by the authors since 2016, are grouped into seven main thematic sections, which express different ways of applying pink in the built environment: as a traditional color, a stereotypic feminine and girlish color, a contrast color in public spaces, an extravagant color, a symbol of peace, hope, tolerance, and solidarity, a trendy color, and finally an “Instagramable” and fictional color. The main conclusion is that the pink color usage in contemporary architecture is very diverse and reflects the various associations and symbolisms of the color itself, which can only be understood in its socio-cultural contexts. Currently, two opposing tendencies are especially compelling—the first related to the kitschy and plastic aesthetic of “Barbie pink”, and the second associated with more neutral and universal “Millennial pink”.
Horizontal Deceleration Performance in Professional Female Handball Players
Authors: Philipp Nicolas M. , Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Marten Kennedy M. , Cabarkapa Damjana V. , Mirkov Dragan M. , Knezevic Olivera M. , Aleksic Jelena , Faj Lucija , Fry Andrew C.
Published: July 2023

Given the multidirectional nature of the sport, handball athletes must frequently perform high-intensity decelerations to avoid defenders, generate space, or perform directional changes. The aim of the present study was twofold: (i) to investigate different kinematic measures of horizontal deceleration performance by comparing the acceleration-deceleration assessment (ADA) with the 5-0-5 test and (ii) to investigate relationships between force-time characteristics derived from the countermovement vertical jump (CVJ) and measures of horizontal deceleration performance. Eleven female handball players competing in the first-tier professional league in Europe performed three CVJs while standing on a uni-axial force plate system sampling at 1000 Hz, followed by two ADAs (i.e., maximal-effort acceleration over a 10 m distance, followed by rapid deceleration) and 5-0-5 test trials. Tripod-mounted radar sampling at 47 Hz, placed 5 m behind the start line, was used to record horizontal velocity data. Each test was separated by a 5–7 min rest interval to minimize the influence of fatigue. No statistically significant differences were found in horizontal deceleration performance parameters between ADA and the 5-0-5 test. However, athletes with a higher CVJ height and reactive strength index-modified showed better performance in terms of horizontal deceleration measures such as maximal approach velocity and average and maximal deceleration. Overall, these results may be of interest to practitioners working with multidirectional sport athletes such as handball players as they provide critical insight for the selection of assessments and training strategies targeted toward optimizing on-court athlete performance.
Biomimetic Design of a Tendon-Driven Myoelectric Soft Hand Exoskeleton for Upper-Limb Rehabilitation
Authors: Silva Rodrigo C. , Lourenço Bruno. G. , Ulhoa Pedro H. F. , Dias Eduardo A. F. , da Cunha Fransergio L. , Tonetto Cristiane P. , Villani Luis G. , Vimieiro Claysson B. S. , Lepski Guilherme A. , Monjardim Marina , Andrade Rafhael M.
Published: July 2023

Degenerative diseases and injuries that compromise hand movement reduce individual autonomy and tend to cause financial and psychological problems to their family nucleus. To mitigate these limitations, over the past decade, hand exoskeletons have been designed to rehabilitate or enhance impaired hand movements. Although promising, these devices still have limitations, such as weight and cost. Moreover, the movements performed are not kinematically compatible with the joints, thereby reducing the achievements of the rehabilitation process. This article presents the biomimetic design of a soft hand exoskeleton actuated using artificial tendons designed to achieve low weight, volume, and cost, and to improve kinematic compatibility with the joints, comfort, and the sensitivity of the hand by allowing direct contact between the hand palm and objects. We employed two twisted string actuators and Bowden cables to move the artificial tendons and perform the grasping and opening of the hand. With this configuration, the heavy part of the system was reallocated to a test bench, allowing for a lightweight set of just 232 g attached to the arm. The system was triggered by the myoelectric signals of the biceps captured from the user’s skin to encourage the active participation of the user in the process. The device was evaluated by five healthy subjects who were asked to simulate a paralyzed hand, and manipulate different types of objects and perform grip strength. The results showed that the system was able to identify the intention of movement of the user with an accuracy of 90%, and the orthosis was able to enhance the ability of handling objects with gripping force up to 1.86 kgf.
Association between Vitamin D Levels, Puberty Timing, and Age at Menarche
Authors: Calcaterra Valeria , Magenes Vittoria Carlotta , Tagi Veronica Maria , Grazi Roberta , Bianchi Alice , Cena Hellas , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo , Fabiano Valentina
Published: July 2023

Pubertal development represents the process of physical maturation where an adolescent reaches sexual maturity and attains reproductive function. The effects of vitamin D are mainly mediated by the vitamin D receptor (VDR), which is expressed in almost all body cells, including the ovary and human pituitary gland and animal hypothalamus. Thus, vitamin D has gained great interest as pathogenic factor of pubertal disorders and fertility. This narrative review aimed to provide a broad overview of the available literature regarding the association between vitamin D levels, puberty timing, and age at menarche. A review of the data on the involvement of micronutrient deficiency, as a modifiable cause of pubertal disorders, is important for the prediction and prevention of deficiencies as well as for fertility protection and should be considered a public health priority. Reported data support that vitamin D is a regulator of neuroendocrine and ovarian physiology and, more in detail, a deficiency of vitamin D is involved in altered pubertal timing. Considering the long-term consequences of early pubertal development and early menarche, the detection of modifiable causes is crucial in preventive strategies. Future studies in humans and with an increased scale are needed to elucidate the vitamin D role in sexual maturation and puberty development.
A New RSA Variant Based on Elliptic Curves
Authors: Boudabra Maher , Nitaj Abderrahmane
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we propose a new scheme based on ephemeral elliptic curves over a finite ring with an RSA modulus. The new scheme is a variant of both the RSA and the KMOV cryptosystems and can be used for both signature and encryption. We study the security of the new scheme and show that it is immune to factorization attacks, discrete-logarithm-problem attacks, sum-of-two-squares attacks, sum-of-four-squares attacks, isomorphism attacks, and homomorphism attacks. Moreover, we show that the private exponents can be much smaller than the ordinary exponents in RSA and KMOV, which makes the decryption phase in the new scheme more efficient.
The Relationship of Fruits and Fruit-Products Consumption with Glucose Homeostasis and Diabetes: A Comprehensive Update on the Current Clinical Literature
Authors: Ellouze Ines , Akhavan Neda , Singar Saiful , Dawkins Kallie , Nagpal Ravinder , Arjmandi Bahram
Published: July 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. This disease often leads to poor health outcomes, such as neuropathy and diabetic foot ulcers, and increased risk for comorbidities such as cardiovascular complications and renal disease. Lifestyle modifications including diet and physical activity interventions are often explored as prevention and management strategies for T2DM. It is well established that fruits are a rich source of fiber and a variety of phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that can help optimize human health. Unfortunately, many experts associate the consumption of fruit with a moderate to high glycemic index (GI), which leads to a spike in blood glucose and eventually elevated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). The purpose of this comprehensive review is to outline the current clinical literature on the relationship between fruit consumption and various indices of glucose metabolism. A variety of fruits have been clinically studied to determine this relationship, namely in the fresh form (e.g., berries, apples, watermelon, cherries, mangoes), dried fruits (raisins and dates), and juices (derived from cranberry, orange, grape, cherry, and pomegranate). Overall, intake of fruits and fruit-derived products is beneficial for healthy subjects and subjects with T2DM regarding their impact on glucose metabolism and other cardiometabolic markers (e.g., inflammatory responses, lipid profiles). Nonetheless, it is more advisable for diabetic patients to consume fresh or dried fruits rather than fruit-derived products. A special consideration needs to be attributed to both the amount of fruit intake with regards to their respective GI and glycemic load (GL), and when these fruits are consumed. Trials with more a comprehensive design and specific outcomes are required to reveal the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of fruit consumption on the T2DM population particularly.
Vegetation Change and Conservation Evaluation of the Cangshan Erhai National Nature Reserve (Cangshan Mountain Part) in Southwest China
Authors: Ni Chunchen , Chen Youjun , Hu Xiaokang , Feng Jianmeng
Published: July 2023

Vegetation and its spatiotemporal variations play a crucial role in regional ecological security and sustainable development. Examining vegetation dynamics in natural reserves provides valuable insights for optimizing vegetation patterns and management strategies. This study utilizes Landsat remote sensing imagery to investigate changes in vegetation pattern and coverage in the Cangshan mountain of the Cangshan Erhai National Nature Reserve, as well as assesses the effectiveness of conservation efforts. The results indicate the following: (1) The primary vegetation types in the Cangshan mountain include warm-temperate coniferous forests, deciduous broad-leaved forests, bamboo forests, and alpine meadows, exhibiting distinct vertical zonation patterns. The vegetated area expanded by 1146 hectares during the study period. (2) The average fractional of vegetation coverage (FVC) in the Cangshan mountain demonstrated an upward trend (0.82 in 1987 to 0.93 in 2017), with the proportion of highly FVC areas increasing from 59.67% in 1987 to 97.89% in 2017. (3) The vegetation landscape fragmentation in Cangshan mountain and various functional areas shows an increasing trend, while connectivity decreases, and is accompanied by a more intricate shape of the vegetation landscape. While conservation and management efforts have yielded certain results in safeguarding the vegetation in the Cangshan mountain, the degree of vegetation landscape fragmentation has intensified due to climate change and human activities. Thus, it is imperative for management authorities to promptly adjust protective measures within the Cangshan mountain. This study contributes to our understanding of vegetation changes within the Cangshan mountain and provides essential baseline information for optimizing and enhancing vegetation conservation management strategies within the reserve.
Forest Flame Detection in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Imagery Based on YOLOv5
Authors: Liu Haiqing , Hu Heping , Zhou Fang , Yuan Huaping
Published: July 2023

One of the major responsibilities for forest police is forest fire prevention and forecasting; therefore, accurate and timely fire detection is of great importance and significance. We compared several deep learning networks based on the You Only Look Once (YOLO) framework to detect forest flames with the help of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery. We used the open datasets of the Fire Luminosity Airborne-based Machine Learning Evaluation (FLAME) to train the YOLOv5 and its sub-versions, together with YOLOv3 and YOLOv4, under equal conditions. The results show that the YOLOv5n model can achieve a detection speed of 1.4 ms per frame, which is higher than that of all the other models. Furthermore, the algorithm achieves an average accuracy of 91.4%. Although this value is slightly lower than that of YOLOv5s, it achieves a trade-off between high accuracy and real-time. YOLOv5n achieved a good flame detection effect in the different forest scenes we set. It can detect small target flames on the ground, it can detect fires obscured by trees or disturbed by the environment (such as smoke), and it can also accurately distinguish targets that are similar to flames. Our future work will focus on improving the YOLOv5n model so that it can be deployed directly on UAV for truly real-time and high-precision forest flame detection. Our study provides a new solution to the early prevention of forest fires at small scales, helping forest police make timely and correct decisions.