bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation on the Carob Extraction using with Arrhenius Approach and Response Surface
Authors: Özel Mehmet Berkant , Durmaz Ufuk , Özdemir Mustafa , Yalçınkaya Orhan , Alsaiari Norah Salem , Alomairy Sultan , Al-Buriahi M. S.
Published: September 2024

Environmental problems are increasing in the world. The imperative for sustainable agricultural practices that demand minimal water and energy consumption is also increasing parallel. Carob fruit, which has many benefits to human health, is an eco-friendly product that should be evaluated economically. In Turkey, molasses has been produced from carob, grape, mulberry, apple, and pear for many years. However, conventional methods of molasses production often overlook crucial parameters to ensure optimal quality, such as extraction temperature and water quantity. The present study sheds light on the mass transfer rate coefficient during carob extraction, focusing on the influence of temperature and water quantity. The experimental study explores the rheological behavior of carob molasses with varying temperature and water quantity parameters. The Arrhenius approach elucidates the impact of temperature on mass transfer, proposing a novel equation to extract sugar and efficiently optimize energy consumption during water evaporation. The study also paves the way for applications across other fruit extraction processes.
Implementing Applied Methodologies in Differential Calculus Education: Problem-Solving and Project-Based Approaches
Authors: Vergara Fabrizzio
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effectiveness of applied methodologies in the instruction of differential calculus for undergraduate students. By integrating problem-solving techniques and project-based learning, we aim to enhance students' comprehension and application of differential calculus concepts. The study involves a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data to assess the impact of these methodologies on students' performance and engagement. Results indicate a significant improvement in students' understanding and retention of course material, as well as increased motivation and interest in mathematics.
Growth monitoring practices and associated factors among healthcare workers in Bale Zone, Oromia, Southeast Ethiopia. Cross-sectional study
Authors: Asfaw Tesfaye , Shemsi Sheka , Desalew Assefa , Tizazu Diribsa , Garoma Merga , Bekele Gadisa , Meseret Fentahun , Keneni Mulualem
Published: September 2024

Background:Growth monitoring is a critical aspect of child healthcare that enables early identification of growth faltering and timely interventions. Competency in growth monitoring is crucial for implementing the practices, preventing malnutrition and its associated consequences. However, data on growth-monitoring practices among healthcare workers in Ethiopia are scarce. Hence, this study aimed to assess growth monitoring practices and their associated factors among health professionals working with under-five children in Bale Zone, Oromia, and Southeast Ethiopia.
Methods: A multi-facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 508 health professionals selected using simple random sampling techniques between May 31 and August 10, 2023. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. The collected data were entered into Epi-data v 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS v 25. A binary logistic regression model was employed to identify the factors associated with growth monitoring practices. Statistical significance was declared using an aOR of 95% CI and a p-value less than 0.05.
Results: Overall, the magnitude of good growth monitoring practices was 63.4% [95 CI: 59- 68]. The mean and SD of health professional age were 31.78 (± 3.92 SD). In multivariable logistic regression; The experience of health profession more than 11 years [aOR = 5.26; 95% CI: 3.14, 8.84], the health profession scored good knowledge [aOR = 5.11; 95% CI: 3.00, 8.71], favorable attitude of health workers [aOR = 2.58; 95% CI: 1.33, 5.00], the health workers received growth monitoring training [aOR = 3.98; CI: 2.47, 6.43], and the availability of growth monitoring equipment [aOR =3.52; CI: 2.19, 5.67] were significantly associated to growth monitoring practices.
Conclusion: Six out of ten healthcare professionals had good growth monitoring practices, which is relatively low compared to the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF's) recommendation. Health professional experience more than 11 years, the availability of growth monitoring equipment, health workers scored good knowledge, favorable attitude, and received training were significantly associated with good growth monitoring practices. Concerned stakeholders should work to improve growth monitoring practices through collaboration among healthcare providers, communities, and families. Moreover, staff training and sustainable supply and maintenance of growth monitoring equipment contribute to improving growth monitoring practices.
Assessing anxiety and stress levels in undergraduate nursing students during their clinical placements: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: García-Velasco Leticia , Alcoceba Irene , García Sara , López María , Albertos Irene , Castro María José , Jiménez José María
Published: September 2024

Objective
To analyse the impact of stressors and anxiety on undergraduate nursing students during their clinical placements.
Background
Undergraduate nursing students’ perceived lack of skills to perform the different activities and techniques required is regarded as one of the most relevant stressors in clinical placements, which thus becomes a challenge in their training. Understanding the sources of stress and how it varies throughout their training makes it possible to plan appropriate intervention and support strategies to equip them with the necessary skills for their future professional careers.
Methods
A pre-test/post-test prospective longitudinal quasi-experimental study. 113 third-year undergraduate nursing students carrying out their clinical placements (Practicum I) in two tertiary hospitals in the public health system. In the 2021–2022 academic year, the validated KEZKAK questionnaire was administered to assess stressors in clinical placements, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) was used to measure student anxiety levels.
Results
Ninety-three students participated in the study; 77.66% were female and 21.28% male, with a mean age of 23 ± 6 years. The KEZKAK overall mean score underwent a significant change when comparing the beginning of clinical placements with the end (2.84 ± 0.45 points vs 2.53 ± 0.44 points; p < 0.001), as was the case with the data on anxiety levels obtained using the STAI (2.37 ± 0.21 vs 2.23 ± 0.21; p < 0.001). Female students reported higher levels of stress than male students, and all the stress factors analysed decreased after the clinical placements.
Conclusions
A decrease in the levels of anxiety and perceived stress was evidenced through factors linked to the clinical placements of undergraduate nursing students. The organisational implementation of Practicum I had a positive impact on students, helping them to cope with their clinical practice period in a hospital environment.
Word Segmentation of Ancient Tamil Text extracted from inscriptions
Authors: S Sandeep , S Sanjith , Sudarsan Bharadwaj
Published: September 2024

The absence of word boundaries between words in scriptio continuo languages hinder the development of NLP models for such languages. The objective of this research is to facilitate the building of NLP models for scriptio continuo languages by designing a word segmentation model for predicting word boundaries between letters in sentences, focusing particularly on ancient Tamil scripts. We have utilized a N-gram Naive Bayes model to predict the existence of word boundaries between two characters in a scriptio continuo text. We trained and assessed the model on a dataset of ancient Tamil writing, achieving an accuracy of 91.28%. Efficiently segmenting ancient Tamil texts not only helps preserve and comprehend historical manuscripts, but it also enables advancements in automated text segmentation. This model will assist archaeologists in constructing NLP models utilizing ancient Tamil, allowing for the extraction of significant information from ancient Tamil manuscripts without the need for a language expert. Additional research may be undertaken to examine more effective techniques for word segmentation with better performance, managing scripts from several centuries and developing models for additional languages.
Preparing Integrated STEM Educators In PNG: The Enabling and Constraining Factors
Authors: Kravia Kainaro , Matthew Readette , Hagoya John , Havave Jonika , DeBritto Savitha , Ambelye Jeffrey , Zeming Agewa , Sakopa Prisilla , Bourke Terri , Chandra Vinesh , Beutel Denise , Mallet Dann
Published: September 2024

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education is a high priority in many countries, seen to enable future economic growth and competitiveness. Teachers play a central role in this endeavour. This paper reports on an Australian government funded research project in Papua New Guinea evaluating the extent to which a post-graduate science teacher education course prepared future teachers as integrated Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) educators. We conducted 11 interviews to determine stakeholders’ current understandings of integrated Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths in education, what enables and constrains STEM education practices, and how they could be improved in Papua New Guinea. Margaret Archer’s emergent properties were used as a robust theoretical frame to analyse the data. While some enabling conditions were present, findings revealed a broad lack of understanding about integrated Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, as well as significant structural constraints. Recommendations are made for how integrated Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths practices can be improved moving forward which include a coordinated national approach to increase integrated Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths understanding and integrated Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths teacher education.
A Case Study for Flood Impact Analysis to Develop SustainableFlood Management Measures in Pakistan
Authors: Rashid Haroon , Kentel Aysu Sagun
Published: September 2024

Pakistan faces rapid flooding risk because of climatic, economic and social changes. Catastrophic events, especially floods, cause various inequities which effect the sustainable development of counties with ecological, financial, social and political costs that remain constant throughout generations. It is, therefore, of supreme importance to forecast the future effect of flood damage and take action to mitigate the negative impacts and losses caused by floods. The aim of this research study is to explore the flood disasters in Pakistan and highlight the need to mitigate them for the sustainable development of the country. In this research, a case study is conducted to estimate the impacts of the flood on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), affected population and urban damage by using an online intelligent platform, Aqueduct Global Flood Analyser. Different scenarios are created to predict the possible damage using 10-year flood protection level. The results of the study show that 10-year flood protection level can save $18.6 billion on the GDP, reduce urban damage to $2.6 billion and reduce the effects on 4.9 million of the country’s population by 2030. The results of the study reveal that increases in annual affected GDP, affected population and urban damage are more based on severe climate change and socio-economic development trends need to be improved. Line departments such as PDMA (Provincial Disaster Management Authority) and NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) need to make further progress in flood management by enhancing preparedness and response capabilities, which includes improving early warning systems, coordination, and the efficiency of rescue operations.
Smartphone Behavior and Loneliness Among Older Couples in China: Actor-Partner Interdependence Modeling
Authors: Huang Siqi , Zhang Wanjia , Xie Yucen , Gao Bo , Zhou Huan
Published: September 2024

Background
Much evidence suggests that smartphone behavior is associated with loneliness, but no studies have examined the relationship at the dyadic level in Chinese older couples. The aim of this study is to determine whether smartphone behavior is associated with loneliness in individuals and their spouse.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included 202 older couples from two community healthcare centers in Chengdu, China, between October 2022 and May 2023. The actor-partner interdependence model (APIM) was constructed to investigate the interdependent effect between smartphone behavior (i.e., smartphone proficiency, smartphone duration, smartphone usage, and overall smartphone behavior score) and loneliness.
Results
In terms of actor effects, the smartphone behavior index of husbands and wives negatively affected their own loneliness, including smartphone proficiency, smartphone duration, smartphone usage, and overall smartphone behavior score, whereas no such effect existed between wives’ smartphone usage and their own loneliness. Some significant partner effects were observed, i.e., husbands’ smartphone duration and overall smartphone behavior score were associated with their wives’ lower loneliness.
Conclusions
This research indicated the dyadic interdependence of smartphone behavior and loneliness in older couples. Future mental health interventions for the older people should treat the couple as a unit.
Assessing disordered eating behaviours and attitudes: Factor structure and measurement invariance of the Arabic version of the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alyami Mohsen M. , Al-Dossary Saeed A.
Published: September 2024

Background
The factorial structure of the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) has been found inconsistent across studies and samples. This study examined the factorial structure and measurement invariance of the Arabic version of the EAT-26 in a large non-clinical Saudi sample.
Methods
1,734 Saudi adults (Mage 26.88 and SD 9.13), predominantly female, completed an online survey. Confirmatory factor analysis evaluated several established factorial models to identify the best-fitting model for the Arabic version of the EAT-26.
Results
The original three-factor model and two other common models demonstrated poor fit. Instead, a 16-item, four-factor structure [(Self-Perceptions of Body Weight), (Dieting), (Awareness of Food Contents), and (Food Preoccupation)] showed acceptable fit ([CFI = 0.904; SRMR = 0.0554; RMSEA = 0.073 [90% CI: 0.068–0.077]). Internal consistency was good, and measurement invariance was supported across sex and BMI categories.
Conclusions
These findings suggest the need for culturally relevant validation of the EAT-26 among Arabic-speaking populations, as the factorial structure differed from previous models. Future research should further examine this revised 16-item, four-factor structure in clinical settings.
Effect of in Situ Thermal Treatment on ABS Parts produced by Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Authors: Nguyen Khanh Q. , Vuillaume Pascal Y. , Hu Lei , Vachon Andro , Diouf-Lewis Audrey , Marcoux Pier-Luc , Robert Mathieu , Elkoun Saïd
Published: September 2024

Fused deposition modeling (FDM), an economical additive manufacturing (AM) technique, is widely used for extruding thermoplastic filaments. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a widely used polymer for FDM technique due to its inexpensive cost, strong impact strength, great durability, and intriguing uses. ABS materials are used for interior parts of automotive applications, drug-delivery systems, tracheal tubes, valves for ventilators, and medical masks. Nonetheless, shrinkage and warping are the primary weaknesses of ABS during the FDM process, affecting the dimensional stability of printed parts. In this context, a patent-pending radiant heating system has been developed to improve the overall performance of printed parts. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of in situ thermal treatment on the interlayer adhesion and mechanical properties of printed ABS parts. The thermal treatment was carried out on a radiant heating system at 240oC and a printing speed of 35 mm.s− 1. The physical and mechanical of ABS parts printed with and without radiant heating were then characterized. Various techniques including tensile tests, X-ray microtomography (µ-CT), optical profilometry (OP), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), were conducted to investigate mechanical, microstructural, and topological properties of printed ABS parts. The results show that treated samples exhibit better interlayer adhesion than untreated ones. In addition, the treated samples had a lower porosity (1.6%) than the untreated samples (3%). Furthermore, the tensile strength, elastic modulus, and elongation at break of treated samples increased by 62%, 6%, and 110%, respectively compared to untreated ones.
The Embira Bark Fiber: a Sustainable Amazon Tape
Authors: Tavares Sheron S. , Neuba Lucas Mendonça , COLORADO HENRY , Monteiro Sergio Neves , Meyers Marc André
Published: September 2024

The embira bark fiber is routinely used in Brazil to construct simple structures because of its ease of extraction, flexibility, and considerable strength. It plays an important role, somewhat similar to duct tape, and is commonly used for temporary repairs and tying objects. The flexible bark is removed from the tree by making two cuts into it and manually pulling off the fibrous structure. Three similar but distinct embira bark fibers are characterized structurally and mechanically: embira branca, embira capa bode, and embira chichá. The bark separates readily into strips with thicknesses between 0.3 and 1 mm, enabling it to be twisted and bent without damage. The structure consists of aligned cellulose fibers bound by lignin and hemicellulose. Thus, it is a natural composite. The tensile strength of the three fibers varies in the range of 25 to 100 MPa, with no clear difference between them. There is structural and strength consistency among them. The mechanical strength of embira branca is measured for different fiber bundle diameters and is found to increase with decreasing diameter. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that degradation of the fibers initiates at 251⁰C, consistent with other lignocellulosic fibers X-ray diffraction identifies two major components: the monoclinic crystalline structure of cellulose and an amorphous phase; the crystallinity index is approximately 50%.
A prediction of mutations in infectious viruses using artificial intelligence
Authors: Choi Won Jong , Park Jongkeun , Seong Do Young , Chung Dae Sun , Hong Dongwan
Published: September 2024

Many subtypes of SARS-CoV-2 have emerged since its early stages, with mutations showing regional and racial differences. These mutations significantly affected the infectivity and severity of the virus. This study aimed to predict the mutations that occur during the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and identify the key characteristics for making these predictions. We collected and organized data on the lineage, date, clade, and mutations of SARS-CoV-2 from publicly available databases and processed them to predict the mutations. In addition, we utilized various artificial intelligence models to predict newly emerging mutations and created various training sets based on clade information. Using only mutation information resulted in low performance of the learning models, whereas incorporating clade differentiation resulted in high performance in machine learning models, including XGBoost (accuracy: 0.999). However, mutations fixed in the receptor-binding motif (RBM) region of Omicron resulted in decreased predictive performance. Using these models, we predicted potential mutation positions for 24C, following the recently emerged 24A and 24 B clades. We identified a mutation at position Q493 in the RBM region. Our study developed effective artificial intelligence models and characteristics for predicting new mutations in continuously evolving infectious viruses.
Public assistance program and food diversity among older people: a cross-sectional study using the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study data Subheadings: Public assistance program and food diversity
Authors: Tanaka Kotone , Nishioka Daisuke , Nakagomi Atsushi , Ueno Keiko , Ide Kazushige , Murayama Nobuko , Kondo Katsunori
Published: September 2024

Background
Food diversity plays an important role in people’s healthy and affluent lives. However, poverty and eating alone can create multi-dimensional barriers to their food diversity. Although public assistance programs guarantee a minimum income to those in need, financial support alone may not be sufficient to support the health of people in poverty.
Methods
This cross-sectional study utilized data from the Japanese Gerontological Evaluation Study (2022), involving 14,467 participants aged 65 and older. The Dietary Variety Score (DVS), ranging from 0 to 10 (higher scores indicate higher dietary variety), assessed dietary diversity based on the regular consumption of ten food groups. Receiving public assistance was categorized as “yes” or “no.” Eating together was defined as eating with others every day. To assess the relationship between receiving public assistance and the dietary variety score, we calculated the unstandardized coefficient (β) and p values using a general linear model. Additionally, the interaction between public assistance and eating together was examined. As covariates, we adjusted for sociodemographic factors such as age, disease, marital status, and living alone.
Results
Men recipients of public assistance had lower DVS, even after adjusting for sociodemographic factors (adjusted β: -0.72, p = 0.04). For women, there was no association between receiving public assistance and lower DVS (adjusted β: -0.19, p = 0.66). There tended to be an interaction toward a higher DVS by public assistance and eating together among only men (p = 0.07).
Conclusions
Even after adjusting for sociodemographic factors, men recipients of public assistance have less food diversity than non-recipients. Men recipients were more likely to increase their food diversity by eating together. To ensure recipients’ rights to food security, the public assistance program may be effective in providing additional support to integrate recipients into communities that enable them to eat together in addition to financial support.
Effects of industrial mariculture on the eco-economic efficiency of mariculture
Authors: Dong Jinli , Shen Manhong , Yu Xuan
Published: September 2024

In the paper the undesirable SBM-DEA model was used to measure the eco-economic efficiency of mariculture in different coastal provinces of China from 2007 to 2020. It was the first time to investigate the impact of industrial mariculture structural index on the eco-economic efficiency of mariculture in China with the environmental regulation, especially from the perspective of internal mariculture structure. The results showed: as a modern mariculture mode, the increase in the proportion of industrial mariculture could promote the improvement of the eco-economic efficiency of mariculture, but the promotion effect gradually weakened with the increase in the intensity of environmental regulation. Therefore, with the development of technology and the optimization of policy, changing the structure of mariculture and increasing the proportion of industrial mariculture can further promote the eco-economic efficiency of mariculture in China.
Analysis, Design, and Simulation of a Very Low Voltage, Very Low Power, and Very High Speed Homo/Hetero Structure TFET-Based Dynamic Comparator in 65nm Technology
Authors: Dashtbayazi Mohsen , Hosseini Seyed Ebrahim , Naeemi Mohamad Ali
Published: September 2024

The goal of this paper is to analyze, design, and simulate a homo/hetero structure tunnel field-effect transistor (TFET)-based dynamic comparator, which operates at very low voltage, very low power, and very high speed in a 65 nm technology. The proposed design offers a promising solution for efficient and high-performance low-power comparator design in digital applications. Through extensive simulation and analysis, the effectiveness of the proposed design is demonstrated and compared with existing designs. This study provides valuable insights for the development of high-performance, low-power comparator design in the semiconductor industry. In this paper, we present a design and simulation of a MOSFET-based dynamic comparator with improved performance in TSMC 65nm technology. The post-layout simulation is implemented in the TSMC 65nm model and validated with Design Rule Check (DRC), Layout Versus Schematic (LVS), and Parasitic Extraction (PEX) tests to ensure the reliability and robustness of the simulation results. The time domain analysis of the post-layout simulation is also provided, which shows the circuit's reliable performance. Finally, a homo/hetero-structure CTFET model with 65 nm technology is created using the III-V model, and the proposed MOSFET-based dynamic comparator is compared with the CTFET model. To provide CMOS an opportunity to compare with CTFET, a model CTFET is developed using 65nm technology. Hence, the highest sampling frequency of 25 GS/s in PDP of 0.4325 fJ has been achieved in this article. The simulation results indicate that the proposed design has improved performance in terms of speed, power consumption, and stability.
Multistate model for correlates of parity progression among women living with HIV in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Olagunju Ahmed , Akinyemi Joshua O. , Afolabi Rotimi , Awolude Olutosin A.
Published: September 2024

Globally, childbearing is a major concern for women living with HIV (WLWH). This study examined parity progression and its predictors among WLWH in Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria. We analysed dataset from a cross-sectional study on childbearing progression among 933 respondents aged 18–49 years receiving care at the HIV Program, University College Hospital, Ibadan. Multistate model was employed for analysis. The adjusted total fertility rate was 3.54. More than 70% were likely to progress from first-to-second birth (HR = 1.77; CI: 1.40, 2.23)but none of the covariates analysed were associated with progression. WLWH were less likely of progression from second-to-third birth (HR = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.13, 0.16). Having 1–2 children at HIV diagnosis (HR = 0.59; CI: 0.48, 0.71), being widowed (HR = 1.36; CI: 1.04, 1.80), having a partner with secondary education(HR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.49), partner’s employment status (HR = 1.40; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.80),, knowledge of partner’s HIV status (Negative) (HR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.94) were associated with progression to third birth. The estimated total fertility rate was lower than the national and the Southwest estimates. Different factors were associated with birth progression from one parity to another.
Source rock characterization using seismic data inversion and well log analysis; a case study from Kazhdumi Formation, NW Persian Gulf
Authors: Rahimi Mehran , Alizadeh Bahram , Seyedali Seyed Mohsen
Published: September 2024

Source rock characterization is one of the important approaches in the field of geophysics and petroleum geology. The source rock characterization in a sedimentary basin is economically crucial in conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon resources. This investigation uses the integration of seismic data inversion methods and geochemical data to evaluate an accurate total organic carbon (TOC) of the Kazhdumi Formation in the NW of the Persian Gulf. The Kazhdumi Formation with Cretaceous age is an important source rock in the NW of the Persian Gulf and Zagros region. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the TOC content as one of the important geochemical parameters of the Kazhdumi Formation by integrating pre- and post-seismic inversion results, and well logs analysis. This study uses the artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm and well logs e.g., sonic, neutron, density, gamma-ray, and resistivity to evaluate the TOC log along with the Rock-Eval pyrolysis to analyze the actual data. The performance of the ANN algorithm was evaluated using correlation analysis as a cross-validation method by the bind core data sample. The simultaneous, and model-based seismic inversion methods were evaluated in the studied oil field, and the obtained results of seismic inversion methods were evaluated by well logs. The seismic data inversion attributes and the TOC log from the well logs analysis were used in the TOC volume evaluation procedure. Integrating seismic inversion attributes with high lateral resolution and well log with high vertical resolution creates a more accurate TOC value than the conventional methods. The multi-attribute regression (MAR) and artificial neural network (ANN) methods were utilized to estimate the TOC volume of the Kazhdumi Formation, and The obtained results of the MAR and ANN methods of RMSE analysis values are 0.1456 and 0.1098, respectively. The correlation of evaluated TOC between the actual TOC and TOC values using the ANN method based on the seismic inversion attributes is 0.89. The obtained results and data evaluation procedure of this investigation can provide useful information for the geological and geochemical studies in this oil field.
The investigation, Evaluation, and Countermeasures of the Current Situation of Online Physical Education in Universities
Authors: Qian Haonan
Published: September 2024

In 2019, a sudden outbreak of novel coronavirus disease swept the world, seriously affecting education and teaching. Most universities worldwide have adopted a "learning without classes" model dominated by online teaching. Up to now, this teaching model under the normalization of the epidemic has been popularized worldwide. However, evaluating online teaching quality and the weight of influencing factors have become difficult points in measuring teaching quality; the factors and weights affecting online teaching are problems that need to be studied and solved urgently. This study takes online physical education (PE) teaching in Chinese universities as the research object. Analyzing the relevant research literature, it proposes a weight evaluation method for online PE teaching index in universities based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-entropy method-fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. This method is a new teaching evaluation model that combines the subjective and objective weighting method with the fuzzy evaluation method. We applied the method to the weight analysis of the online PE teaching index in Chinese universities and demonstrated that the method has good applicability. More importantly, we have condensed the conclusions of this research into practical countermeasures and put forward strategies to improve the quality of online PE teaching from the macro and the personal research levels. This research achieves innovation at the application level, improvement at the theoretical level, and focus at the practical level. The research results can help Chinese universities to improve the quality of current online PE teaching and even provide experience and reference for formulating relevant measures for international online teaching.
Integrated Task offloading Scheduling and Trajectory Optimization for UAV-MEC Using SAC-UTO
Authors: Pan Kai , Dong Jiadong , Zheng Chunxiang , Wang Xiaoxiao
Published: September 2024

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-assisted Mobile Edge Computing (UAV-MEC) systems have emerged as a promising solution for providing efficient computational services to Terminal Devices (TDs) in remote areas or emergency situations, owing to their high flexibility and mobility. However, optimizing UAV flight trajectories while minimizing task computation latency remains a significant challenge. This paper proposes a novel dual-agent framework called SAC-UTO (Dual-Agent SAC-Based UAV Trajectory and Task Offloading Optimization), based on the Soft Actor-Critic (SAC) algorithm from Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL), to optimize task offloading strategies and trajectory planning in UAV-MEC systems. Our approach comprehensively considers TD task offloading scheduling priorities, real-time UAV flight trajectories, and optimal offloading rate allocation among local, UAV-MEC, and Ground-MEC nodes. We model this problem as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem and achieve hierarchical decision optimization through two collaborative yet functionally separate agents: Agent 1 optimizes global strategies, focusing on TD task offloading scheduling priorities, while Agent 2 dynamically optimizes UAV flight trajectories and task offloading rates across computational nodes, given the scheduling priorities. By incorporating flight distance factors into the delay reward function, our method reduces UAV flight distances while maintaining equivalent computational latency.
Unraveling the Mechanisms of Benzimidazole Resistance in Hookworms: A Molecular Docking and Dynamics Study
Authors: Tenorio Jan Clyden B. , Heikal Muhammad Fikri , Kafle Alok , Macalalad Mark Andrian B. , Orosco Fredmoore L. , Saichua Prasert , Suttiprapa Sutas
Published: September 2024

Background
Benzimidazole resistance is an emerging challenge among parasitic helminths. It is caused by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in specific loci in helminths’ β-tubulin gene. Field studies and laboratory investigations reported resistance-associated SNPs in 4 codon locations with 7 allelic variations among hookworms. This study aimed to determine the effects of these mutations on the binding efficiency and behavior of the β-tubulin protein in four hookworm species against four benzimidazole drugs.
Methods
β-tubulin gene coding sequences of Ancylostoma caninum, A. duodenale, A. ceylanicum, and Necator americanus were retrieved, assessed phylogenetically, and used to construct the 3D structure models of the proteins. The modeled protein structures were verified and edited to contain the reported SNPs: Q134H, F167Y, E198A, E198K, E198V, F200L, and F200Y. Benzimidazole drugs such as albendazole (ABZ), fenbendazole (FBZ), mebendazole (MBZ) and oxfendazole (OBZ) were used as ligands. Molecular docking experiments were performed with the wild-type and mutated proteins. Molecular dynamics simulation assessed the dynamic behavior of the β-tubulin-benzimidazole complex.
Results
In silico docking assessments showed that various amino acid substitutions due to resistance-associated SNPs cause alterations in binding affinities and positions. E198K and Q134H in hookworm β-tubulins substantially weakened the binding affinities and altered the binding positions of benzimidazole drugs. Molecular dynamics analysis revealed that these mutations also caused marked reductions in the binding free energies owing to diminished hydrogen bond contacts with the benzimidazole ligands.
Conclusion
The evidence shown herein indicates that mutations at positions 198 and 134 are detrimental to conferring benzimidazole resistance among hookworms. The presence of these mutations in may alter the efficacy of pharmacological interventions. Hence, further studies should be conducted to assess their emergence among hookworms in endemic areas with histories of chemotherapy.
Sensitivity Enhanced Dual-Core Photonic Crystal Fiber Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor Based on Gold Film
Authors: Zhao Zihong , Pan Honggang , You Qingcheng , Zhu Yukun , Li Rupeng , Chen Chunqi
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we proposed a dual-core D-shaped photonic crystal fiber surface plasmon resonance refractive index sensor based on gold film. The proposed sensor uses two symmetrical fiber cores for enhanced surface plasmon resonance coupling to obtain extremely high amplitude sensitivity. The influence of structural parameters on the sensing performance was investigated. According to the simulation results, the sensor has a superior performance, which achieved the ultra high amplitude sensitivity of 8134.9 RIU− 1, a high average AS of 5,358.25 RIU− 1, the amplitude interrogation resolution of 1.87×10− 6 RIU, the maximum wavelength sensitivity of 39,000 nm/RIU, the wavelength interrogation resolution of 2.56×10− 6 RIU− 1 in a refractive index detection range of 1.37–1.40, and the maximum FOM of 246 RIU− 1. The proposed sensor has a broad prospect of application in biological, environmental, and chemical detection.
Evaluating Remote Sensing Techniques for Monitoring Grassland Degradation
Authors: Herrmann Pamela Boelter , Kuplich Tatiana Mora , Nascimento Victor Fernandez , Oliveira Cássio Adílio Hoffmann
Published: September 2024

Ecosystem degradation represents one of the most significant environmental challenges facing the globe. Of particular concern is the impact of grassland degradation on agricultural productivity, species diversity, and soil erosion. This study aimed to compare the applicability of two remote sensing techniques, the Linear Spectral Mixture Model (LSM) and the Grassland Degradation Index (GDI), in assessing and defining the degree of grassland degradation. The results demonstrated that the GDI exhibited superior overall accuracy than LSM, with an accuracy rate of 73.49% as opposed to 63.16% for the LSM. Additionally, the GDI demonstrated a higher F1 score across all evaluated classes, indicating an enhanced capacity to identify true positives and minimise false positives and negatives. Both techniques demonstrated satisfactory performance and can be employed to support restoration and sustainable management studies.
Postoperative decrease in serum albumin as predictor of early acute periprosthetic infection after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Ishii Yoshinori , Noguchi Hideo , Sato Junko , Takahashi Ikuko , Ishii Hana , Ishii Ryo , Ishii Kei , Ishii Kai , Toyabe Shin-ichi
Published: September 2024

Purpose
Patients with hypoalbuminemia, often defined as serum albumin (SA) less than 3.5 g/dL, are at greater risk for complications after surgery. In particular, patients with hypoalbuminemia undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have an increased postoperative wound infection rate. Most studies, however, report only the preoperative SA. We aimed to analyze not just preoperative SA but also postoperative SA in patients who experienced acute periprosthetic infection in the first 4 weeks after surgery.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed data from 490 consecutive TKAs (314 patients). Five patients developed early acute infection requiring surgical treatment. SA data were collected preoperatively (SA0) and 1 week postoperatively (SA1W) to evaluate SA dynamics. Multiple patient and operative parameters that could influence SA were also analyzed.
Results
There were no statistical differences in any parameters that were expected to influence or might influence SA values in the perioperative period between the surgically treated (STG) and non-treated groups (non-STG). Furthermore, none of the patients in STG had SA0 and SA1W below 3.5 g/dL. However, the amount and rate of SA reduction before and after surgery was significantly greater in STG than in non-STG.
Conclusion
SA dynamics revealed a greater reduction of both the amount and rate in STG before and after surgery than in non-STG. However, no correlation was found between early acute periprosthetic infection after TKA and each SA0 and SA1W time point. We suggest that further evaluation of the SA value of 3.5 g/dL as a threshold for acute early acute infection is warranted.
Primary Patency Success of Arteriovenous Shunts in Hemodialysis Patients: A 28-month Prospective Study at Al-Thawra Modern General Hospital, Yemen
Authors: Almadwahi Nabeel Y. , Al-Dailami Zaid , Al-Mashramah Gehad , Jowah Haitham Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Background: Arteriovenous (AV) shunts are vital for providing long-term vascular access in hemodialysis patients. While brachiocephalic and radiocephalic shunts are commonly employed, data on their primary patency rates and associated complications in resource-limited settings such as Yemen remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the primary patency success of AV shunts and identify factors influencing their outcomes in hemodialysis patients at Al-Thawra Modern General Hospital.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over 28 months, from April 2021 to August 2023, at Al-Thawra Modern General Hospital in Sana’a, Yemen. A total of 163 patients with chronic renal failure requiring AV shunt creation for hemodialysis were included. Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, shunt characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Primary patency was assessed at the 8-month follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed to identify factors associated with shunt patency.Results: Among the 163 patients included, the median age was 43.12 years, with 61.3% undergoing brachiocephalic shunt creation. The overall primary patency rate at 8 months was 87.7%, with brachiocephalic shunts exhibiting a significantly greater patency rate (93.0%) than radiocephalic shunts (67.3%) (p = 0.02). Complications occurred in 25% of patients, with pseudoaneurysm formation being the most common complication (6.1%). Factors such as shunt type, patient age, and comorbidities (e.g., diabetes) significantly influence patency outcomes.Conclusion: Compared with radiocephalic shunts, brachiocephalic shunts demonstrated superior primary patency rates, suggesting that they may be preferable options for long-term hemodialysis access in the studied population. These findings emphasize the need for individualized patient management and careful postoperative monitoring, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Yemen, to optimize AV shunt outcomes.
Alpha-Synuclein Conformations in Plasma Distinguish Parkinson’s Disease from Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Chen-Plotkin Alice , Kannarkat George , Zack Rebecca , Skrinak R. Tyler , Morley James , Davila-Rivera Roseanne , Arezoumandan Sanaz , Luk Kelvin , Wolk David , Weintraub Daniel , Tropea Thomas , Lee Edward , Xie Sharon , Chandrasekaran Ganesh , Lee Virginia , Irwin David , Akhtar Rizwan , Dorfman Katherine
Published: September 2024

Aggregation of misfolded alpha-synuclein (aSyn) within the brain is the pathologic hallmark of Lewy body diseases (LBD), including Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Evidence exists for aSyn “strains” – conformations with distinct biological properties. However, biomarkers for PD vs. DLB, including potential aSyn strain differences, are lacking. Here, we used two monoclonal antibodies selective for different in vitro aSyn species – termed Strain A and B – to evaluate human brain tissue, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and plasma. Surprisingly, levels of Strain A and B aSyn species differed in plasma from individuals with PD vs. DLB in two independent cohorts. Lower plasma aSyn Strain A species also predicted subsequent PD cognitive decline. Strain A and Strain B aSyn species were undetectable in CSF, but plasma aSyn species could template aSyn fibrillization, particularly in PD. Our findings suggest that aSyn strains may impact LBD clinical presentation and originate outside the brain.
RejuAgro A: A novel antimicrobial for fire blight control of pome fruits and beyond
Authors: Yang Ching-Hong , Huang Jian , Huyen Ton Nu Bao Vy , Liu Xiangyang , Mitra Shreyashi , Yu Manda , Zeng Quan , Sundin George , Cox Kerik , Förster Helga , Adaskaveg James , Kuo Chih-Horng , Yuan Xiaochen
Published: September 2024

Fire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora, severely impacts global apple and pear production. Current control measures rely heavily on conventional antibiotics like streptomycin, oxytetracycline, and kasugamycin, which raise concerns regarding resistance development and environmental impacts. This research introduces RejuAgro A (RAA), a novel antimicrobial produced by Pseudomonas soli 0617-T307, showing potent activity against E. amylovora, including streptomycin-resistant strains. RAA demonstrated efficacy comparable to streptomycin in greenhouse and field trials, effectively reducing fire blight incidence. Furthermore, RAA displayed broad-spectrum activity against diverse plant bacterial and fungal pathogens. The RAA biosynthesis gene cluster in P. soli was identified, revealing key genes essential for its production. RAA presents a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics, potentially enhancing sustainable apple and pear production and addressing antibiotic resistance concerns.
Adipose tissue-derived PRXL2A suppresses hepatic lipogenesis
Authors: Wang Yiguo , Li Zhiyuan , Tian Zheng , Shi Xiaoliu , Long Aijun , Wang Yazhuo , Yang Yan , Wang Yaqi , Zhang Jingjing
Published: September 2024

Hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL) is crucial for maintaining lipid homeostasis, and its dysregulation is implicated in various metabolic diseases. While it is well established that hepatic DNL is tightly regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon secreted from the pancreatic islets during feeding and fasting, further investigations are required to identify more hormones affecting hepatic DNL during the feeding-fasting transition. Here, we identify PRXL2A (peroxiredoxin like 2A), an adipokine secreted during fasting, as an inhibitor of hepatic DNL. Mechanistically, PRXL2A binds to its receptor PTAFR (platelet activating factor receptor), promoting calcium mobilization and activating AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), thereby suppressing SREBP1 (sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1)-controlled hepatic DNL. Disruption of this axis by knockout of either Prxl2a or Ptafr increases hepatic DNL and lipid accumulation. Exogenous PRXL2A reduces hepatic DNL, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for diseases associated with hepatic lipid accumulation. Therefore, the PRXL2A-PTAFR signaling axis links adipose tissues and the liver to regulate hepatic lipid metabolism.