bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nuclear Catalysis Mediated by Localized Anharmonic Vibrations
Authors: Dubinko Vladimir
Published: December 2024

In many-body nonlinear systems with sufficient anharmonicity, a special kind of lattice vibration, namely, Localized Anharmonic Vibrations (LAVs) can be excited either thermally or by external triggering, in which the amplitude of atomic oscillations greatly exceeds that of harmonic oscillations (phonons) that determine the system temperature. The coherency and persistence of LAVs may have a drastic effect on quantum tunneling due to correlation effects discovered by Schrödinger and Robertson in 1930. These effects have been applied to the tunneling problem by a number of authors, who demonstrated a giant increase of sub-barrier transparency during the increase of the correlation coefficient at a special high-frequency periodic action on the quantum system. Recently, it has been proposed that discrete breathers (a sub-class of LAVs arising in periodic systems) present the most natural and efficient way to produce correlation effects in regular crystals due to time-periodic modulation of the potential well (or the Coulomb barrier) width and hence to act as breather ‘nano-colliders’ catalyzing low energy nuclear reactions (LENR) in solids. It has been shown that the tunneling probability for D–D fusion under electrolysis of heavy water increases enormously with increasing number of oscillations resulting in the fusion rates comparable with those observed experimentally. In the present paper, we discuss possible ways of engineering the nuclear-active environment (NAE) and catalyzing LENR in NAE based on the LAV concept. We propose some practical ways of catalyzing LENR that are based on a special electro-magnetic treatment or electron and gamma irradiation, which could trigger LAVs in crystals and clusters.
Fluorescence-based Temperature Sensor for Anomalous Heat from Loaded Palladium Electrodes with Deuterium or Hydrogen
Authors: Bok Sangho , Mathai Cherian , Gangopadhyay Keshab , Gangopadhyay Shubhra , Azizi Orchideh , He Jinghao , El-Boher Arik , Hubler Graham , Pease Dennis
Published: December 2024

Anomalous heat generation in palladium-based materials has been studied in various active research groups since M. Fleischmann, and S. Pons demonstrated an anomalous heat in 1989. There have been attempts to explain anomalous heat by deuteron–deuteron nuclear fusion in the Pd lattice while the search for radiation was unsuccessful which indicated that the origin of the excess heat is unknown. Despite the unknown origin of the excess heat, Pd system is in the core of the research for energy production. The excess heat has been demonstrated by using calorimeters that are well characterized. However, these measurements are not able to provide detailed information about a localized heat rather than a heat from a large area. A new method is demonstrated to investigate an excess heat from Pd electrode loaded with deuterium or hydrogen. It is capable of measuring a small amount of heat generated in a localized area with a sub-micrometer resolution by fluorescence imaging with temperature sensitive fluorescence dyes. Considering quantum yield, photostability, and thermal stability, rhodamine 6G (R6G) is selected for temperature sensor along with a polymer, Poly MethylSilsesquioxane (PMSSQ). The thermal quenching of fluorescence resulted in a decreased temperature over time with heat generation. We envisioned that this new method of the temperature measurement provided a novel diagnostic tool for localized excess heat which was not detectable by calorimetry due to intrinsic disability.
Advance on Electron Deep Orbits of the Hydrogen Atom
Authors: Paillet Jean-Luc , Meulenberg Andrew
Published: December 2024

In the previous works, we discussed arguments for and against the deep orbits, as exemplified in published solutions. So we considered the works of Maly and Va’vra on the topic, the most complete solution available and one showing an infinite family of EDO solutions. In particular, we deeply analyzed their second of these papers, where they consider a finite nucleus and look for solutions with a Coulomb potential modified inside the nucleus. In the present paper, we quickly recall our analysis, verification, and extension of their results. Moreover, we answer to a recent criticism that the EDOs would represent negative energy states and therefore would not qualify as an answer to the questions posed by Cold Fusion results. We can prove, by means of a simple algebraic argument based on the solution process, that, while at the transition region, the energy of the EDOs are positive. Next, we deepen the essential role of Special Relativity as source of the EDOs, which we discussed in previous papers. But the central topic of our present study is an initial analysis of the magnetic interactions near the nucleus, with the aim of solving important physical questions: do the EDOs satisfy the Heisenberg Uncertainty relation (HUR)? Are the orbits stable? So, we examine some works related to the Vigier–Barut Model, with potentials including magnetic coupling. We also carried out approximate computations to evaluate the strength of these interactions and the possibilities of their answering some of our questions. As a first result, we can expect the HUR to be respected by EDOs, due to the high energies of the magnetic interactions near the nucleus. Present computations for stability do not yet give a plain result; we need further studies and tools based on QED to face the complexity of the near-nuclear region. For the creation of EDOs, we outline a possibility based on magnetic coupling.
LENR – What We must Do to Complete Martin Fleischmann’s Undertaking
Authors: McKubre Michael C. H.
Published: December 2024

It is clear to most who have studied the matter carefully that condensed matter nuclear science (CMNS) expresses a real and new phenomenon in physics. The efforts to communicate this reality outside a rather small group have not been very convincing. For something of such potential importance this dichotomy seems strange. How might we improve this situation? A working theory could certainly help, and better correlation between experimental variables, both input and output. A working demonstration that stood alone even as a toy could help facilitate communication directly with influential technical but non-specialist individuals and groups. Some thoughts on the possibilities and constraints are offered below.
Improved Stability and Performance of Surface-Modified Constantan Wires, by Chemical Additions and Unconventional Geometrical Structures
Authors: Celani Francesco , Ortenzi B. , Pella S. , Spallone A. , Vassallo G. , Purchi E. , Fiorilla S. , Notargiacomo L. , Lorenzetti C. , Calaon A. , Nakamura M. , Nuvoli A. , Cirilli P. , Boccanera P.
Published: December 2024

At INFN-LNF, starting in 2011, we have investigated the behavior of the Constantan (Cst) alloy (Cu55Ni44Mn1; ISOTAN44) with hydrogen and/or deuterium (H2/D2) absorption and the generation of anomalous excess heat (AHE) at high temperatures (i.e. >200◦C). To further improve the intrinsic, excellent catalytic proprieties of Cst in H2 → 2H dissociation, we subjected the surface to repeated cycling of “flash” oxidation (pulsed power up to 20 kVA/g), obtaining sub-micrometric particles of mixed composition (Cst–NiOx–CuOy–CuxNiyOz) and reducing deleterious self-sintering problems with nano-materials at high temperatures. Despite the fact that insulation). Recently, we adopted the methodology of making several knots along wires (holes 150–200 μm), later coated multiple times with an iron solution. We introduced potassium into thesolution (which is known as a promoter of iron catalytic performance) and, eventually, manganese to prevent or decrease potassium evaporation. H+ electro- migration, due to large current (>2 A) flowing along the Cst wires as well as high magnetic fields at the center of the knots and on iron micro-particles (absorbing hydrogen at high temperatures) deposited inside micro-holes of Cst, is supposed to play a role in AHE. The cylindrical thick-glass wall reactor had a volume of 250 cm3; operating pressures were 0.1–3 bar; the gases used were helium (for calibration), D2, pure or mixed with xenon (which has ultra-low thermal conduction). In a difference from our previous experiments, we employed only D2 and not H2. The three wires we used were: platinum for calibration purposes and “indirect heating” of Cst wires, and Cst with 41 and 71 knots. Input power range was 10–90 W. Up to now we have observed that the AHE, measured at the external wall of the reactor, reached the largest values (over 85 W, by comparison/extrapolation with platinum under helium, isoperibolic procedure) when the highest input power (90 W) was applied to the 71-knots Cst in D2 mixed with xenon. Further work is necessary to evaluate the effects of: I versus J, numbers of knots, gas mixtures, temperature (including electron emission from SrO: inspired by Iwamura’s experiments, and the Richardson law). results with thin, long wires (Φ = 200 μm, l = 100 cm) were generally positive and excess power (10–20%) was frequently recorded (5–10 W at 50 W input), reproducibility remained unsatisfactory. Later, we realized that iron impurities (up to 1% in the old, pre-1970 batch of Cst) enhanced AHE generation, especially at T > 500◦C. Since 2014, we added Fe(NO3)3 solutions both to the Cst sub-micrometric surfaces (during flash oxidation process),and to borosilicate glass sheaths (SIGI-Fabier; micrometric fibers, previously wetted-dried with Sr(NO3)2 solution) where wires were inserted (as electrical
On the Experiment that Could Answer the Question Whether the Like Charged Particles, with Relative Velocity Close to Zero, Repel or Attract?
Authors: Tukaev I. N.
Published: December 2024

This paper considers the conditions of an experiment with results which could answer unambiguously the following question: do like charged particles repel or attract when the magnitude of their relative velocity is close to zero? The answer to this question will either confirm the validity of Coulomb’s law, which states that the like charged particles always repel, or the validity of hypothesis by Gustav Theodor Fechner, which was proposed in 1845, and stated that like charged particles with relative velocity close to zero, attract.
Novel Biotechnologies for Purification of Radioactive Waste Water
Authors: Govorukha Vira , Tashyrev Oleksandr , Shevel Valery
Published: December 2024

Extended abstract
Aqueous and Nanostructured CF/LANR Systems Each has Two Electrically Driven Modes
Authors: Swartz Mitchell R.
Published: December 2024

An important difficulty to overcome for success in this field is the recognition and control of the two different electrically driven modes for both aqueous and nanostructured CF/LANR systems. Only one state is the active, desired, excess heat (XSH)-producing state (“mode”). This is demonstrated by presenting calorimetry and other measurements of both modes during a single run, and by confirmation using CMORE spectroscopy. It is fortunate that LANR systems, when active, have distinct calorimetric and CMORE anti-Stokes-XSH linked signatures, because it explains why some CF/LANR systems fail to create “excess heat” (XSH), and reveals unwanted reactions, XSH-quenching reactions and pathways.
Nanosecond Pulse Stimulation in the Ni–H2 System
Authors: Tanzella Francis , George Robert , Godes Robert
Published: December 2024

Brillouin Energy and SRI International (SRI) have been performing calorimetry measurements on the Ni(Pd–Ni/ceramic/Cu(Ni) coated tubes in a H2 atmosphere with nanosecond pulses applied across the ceramic coating. We have been testing new materials, material fabrication techniques, and electrical stimulation methods to produce power and energy output in excess of that reported earlier. By applying fast pulses of several hundred volts and tens of nanoseconds long, the current follows the “skin-effect” principle and is concentrated at the Ni–ceramic interface but returns through the bulk of the Cu. Two stimulation methods were used – steady- state and dynamic. In the steady-state method, the pulse power is measured directly using fast oscilloscopes that record the voltage across the tube and a shunt resistor in series with the tube. The resistance of the shunt resistor is measured accurately under DC and pulse conditions. The input pulse power is determined by multiplying the calculated root-mean-square voltage and current and recorded every 10 s. Using a sophisticated model of the calorimeter with up to 15 coefficients, the power reaching the five temperature sensors is determined during simultaneous continuous ramps of both heater and pulse powers. The power emanating from the tube is determined during sequences of more frequent low voltage pulses (LVP) and compared to that found using less frequent high voltage pulses (HVP). The power determined during the more frequent LVP is set as the input power during that sequence. The power of the stimulation pulses during the less frequent HVP sequences is maintained equal to that during the more frequent LVP. Then the power calculated from the tube is divided by that calculated during the reference sequences, giving a so-called coefficient of performance (COP). We have shown an increase in both absolute LENR power produced and in COP.
Anomalous Isotopic Distribution of Silver in a Palladium Cathode
Authors: Biberian Jean-Paul
Published: December 2024

This paper demonstrates that during cold fusion experiments by electrolysis of heavy water with palladium cathodes, there is production of silver. By Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy, it is shown that silver detected is not due to contamination, but probably to transmutation of palladium by absorption of a deuterium nucleus, because only the 107Ag-isotope is present, and not 109Ag, as in natural silver. Another important result of this study is the determination of the depth at which the reaction occurs: 1.3 μm below the cathode surface.
Effective LENR in Weakly Ionized Gas Under the Action of Optimal Pulsed Magnetic Fields and Lightning (Theory and Experiments)
Authors: Vysotskii Vladimir , Vysotskii Mykhaylo
Published: December 2024

The features and mechanism of LENR production in a system of free particles under the action of a weak impulse (e.g., the action of a pulsed magnetic field) are considered. It is shown that in such a system effective formation of coherent correlated states of particles with the accompanying very sharp increase in the energy fluctuations take place. The amplitude of these fluctuations exceeds by many orders the average thermal energy of the particles and can reach 10–50 keV and more. This mechanism fully explains the nuclear reaction both in the atmosphere during a lightning discharge, and laboratory experiments conducted using electric discharges.
Calculation of the Boosted Spin–orbit Contribution to the Phonon–Nuclear Coupling Matrix Element for 181Ta
Authors: Hagelstein Peter L.
Published: December 2024

Modern deformed shell model single–proton wave functions are used to evaluate the boosted spin–orbit contribution to the phonon– nuclear interaction for the 6.237 keV transition in 181Ta. This is the lowest energy E1 transition from the ground state among the stable nuclei, and is important in connection with proposed excitation transfer and up-conversion experiments. The value resulting for the magnitude |⟨9/2−|aˆ|7/2+⟩| is 1.3 × 10−6. The wave functions are also used to evaluate the radiative decay rate which is found to be about 2 × 105 higher than the experimental value, which is strongly hindered. The large interference effect found in the Nilsson model for this transition does not occur in the deformed nuclear model we used. One possibility is that the Nilsson model provides a better physical description, and another possibility is that the problem is more fundamental. We speculate about different approaches that might lead to model wave functions relevant to low-energy transition energies, and also for radiative decay rates.
On Enhancement of Transmission Probability through a High Potential Barrier Due to an Anti-Zeno Effect
Authors: Namiot V. A. , Shchurova L.Yu.
Published: December 2024

We consider a situation in which observations themselves can significantly increase a particle transmission probability through a high barrier compared with the particle tunneling probability (a barrier anti-Zeno effect). This may explain the results of cold fusion experiments that have been reported by other authors for various systems. We examine the anti-Zeno effect as a model of a barrier of a special shape, which is similar to the form of barriers to nuclear fusion in a solid, and moreover, has an analytic solution. We have deduced formulas that demonstrate conditions that increase the barrier permeability. Numerical estimates of the particle flows through the barrier are carried out for the conditions of cold fusion experiments.
Cold Fusion Public Policies: Realizing Benefits and Mitigating Disruptive Impacts
Authors: Grimshaw Thomas
Published: December 2024

Cold fusion (now widely referred to as low energy nuclear reactions, LENR) has many potential energy benefits for society, but it also has risks of major disruption. Despite being rejected soon after it’s announcement 30 years ago, LENR has continued to be pursued by researchers worldwide. The continued vitality of the field, and substantial progress in understanding and reproducibility of the phenomenon, have challenged the initial verdict on LENR as non-legitimate science. LENR realization for the benefit of society will be enhanced by the forces of the free market. But government policy changes are needed to realize LENR benefits and deal with its anticipated disruptive impacts. Evidence-based policy making is a rational way to revisit negative policies for research support. Technology assessment is a candidate method for identifying and mitigating LENR’s adverse secondary effects. Government agencies and the private sector have the opportunity with LENR to accomplish their missions. As a potential new source of abundant, low-cost, and clean energy, LENR has the possibility of substantially improving the long-term prospects of humankind.
Pulsatile Superhyperfine Lines at 327.37 MHz Herald LANR Activity and Possible Mass–Energy Transfer
Authors: Swartz Mitchell R.
Published: December 2024

Active lattice assisted nuclear reaction (LANR) systems, both aqueous and dry preloaded nanomaterials, emit very narrow band- width hyperfine radiofrequency (RF) emission peaks at 327.37 MHz. This is located very close to the theoretical Deuteron-Line (DL; 327.348 MHz) region. At higher applied driving voltages, a complex superhyperfine line structure of sidebands appears. At least some of their emitting RF radiation superhyperfine line peaks, heralding the inverted population, are observed to be apparently pulsing. This may be a sign of real time mass-energy transfers within the high loaded Group VIII lattice.
An Examination of the Updated Empirical Data in Support of the Shell Model
Authors: Bowen N. L.
Published: December 2024

This paper is an examination of the updated experimental data, as is currently known in 2020, in support of the shell model and its concepts. The shell model of the nuclear force is considered to be the fundamental and foundational model of the nuclear force – that force which binds the nucleons together in a nucleus. The shell model was developed in the late 1940s, and it is based on the experimentally known nuclear data at that time, data which supported the concept of nuclear shells. Most textbooks, even the current ones, present this experimental data from the 1940s when discussing the validity of the shell model. However, a large amount of nuclear data has since been collected over the past 70 years, and a re-examination of the experimental data in support of the shell model is long overdue.
Understanding Low Energy Nuclear Reactions
Authors: Kálmán Péter , Keszthelyi Tamás , Nagel David J.
Published: December 2024

This paper reviews a theoretical program to understand the field of low energy nuclear reactions (LENR), initially called cold fusion, which was a puzzle of the last three decades. A series of concepts, which were raised and partly elaborated, are presented. The key concept is a three-body mechanism, where one of the nuclei serves as a catalyst for the reaction of the other two. In these reactions, a single fusion product or two outgoing nuclei are created, along with the recoiled catalytic nucleus. They carry off the nuclear energy released, and heat the surrounding materials by multiple collisions. Importantly, they produce high energy γ radiation with negligible probability. So, this three-body idea solves the two major riddles of LENR, that nuclear reactions can occur at ordinary temperatures and without emitting γ radiation. Cross sections and rates are calculated using standard quantum mechanics, and accepted nuclear and solid-state physics. Their dependence on relevant densities, and on the reacting and catalytic nuclei, are explicit. The theoretical ideas and the results of their elaboration are compared with diverse data from LENR experiments with considerable success.
Theory and Experiments in Condensed Matter Nuclear Science
Authors: Hagelstein Peter L.
Published: December 2024

Excess heat in the Fleischmann-Pons experiment implies the possibility of small-scale source of clean nuclear energy, with the potential to address climate change, finite oil supply, and clean water problems. Following the announcement on March 23, 1989, it took on the order of 40 days for the effect to be rejected, which has led to a bifurcation in which researchers in the field has studied the effect, and mainstream science general does not accept the existence of it. We consider the theoretical picture long studied in our group, and connections with experiment. The model involves many steps, and we have made an effort to connect as many of the theoretical steps as possible to experiments that seem to be closely related.
Mitigating the Loss of Irreplaceable LENR Research Records
Authors: Grimshaw Thomas W.
Published: December 2024

An initiative is underway to document the records of cold fusion researchers while the information is still available. Now more than 30 years after the 1989 LENR announcement, many of these investigators are leaving the field. Projects under the LENR Research Documentation Initiative (LRDI) generally begin with a site visit where information is collected and interviews are conducted. Provision is made for securing the records, and a project report is prepared. More than 20 projects including over 25 participants and collaborators have been performed or are underway. The LRDI includes a major outreach effort to ensure participation and promote the overall standing of cold fusion. Future plans for the initiative call for additional participants and more in-depth coverage of research documented in previous projects. An integrated LRDI report including summaries of the individual projects is being prepared. Documentation of the large body of LENR research is essential both for the field and for humankind generally. Capturing the records enhances the prospects of the field by demonstrating the large amount of the information and the credibility of the researchers. The future of humanity depends on developing an inexhaustible supply of clean and inexpensive energy. LENR is one of the best candidates currently available to meet this need.
LENR Transmutation of Stable Sr and K Isotopes in Activated Microbiological Syntrophic Anaerobic Association
Authors: Kornilova Alla , Gaydamaka Sergey , Vysotskii Vladimir
Published: December 2024

In our previous works, an effective method for accelerated deactivation of the reactor Cs137 isotope during nuclear reaction of transmutation Cs137 + p = Ba138 in growing microbiological cultures was presented and discussed. In the present study we have attempted to solve the problem of accelerated transmutation of another very dangerous radioactive Sr90 isotope. This paper presents the results of investigation of the nuclear reaction Sr88 + p = Y89 a transmutation to a stable Sr88 analog of radioactive Sr90 isotope. The research was carried out on the basis of optimal anaerobic syntrophic associations under the stimulated long-distant action of weak undamped thermal waves.
LENR Solution of the Cosmological Lithium Problem
Authors: Vysotskii V.I. , Vysotskyy M.V. , Bartalucci Sergio
Published: December 2024

This paper considers a mechanism for solving the “lithium problem” in cosmology: a very significant difference in the observed (measured) concentration of lithium isotopes in the Universe in comparison with the results of a detailed analysis of the process of primary nucleosynthesis in the Big Bang model. It is shown that such isotope anomalies (a great decrease of the Li7 concentration and a 500-fold increase of the Li6 concentration) can be associated with a very significant increase of the probability of Li6(d, He4)He4 and Li7(p, He4)He4 reactions involving protons and deuterium in the near-surface region of stars with temperature T ≤ 100 eV. The process of optimization of nuclear fusion reactions is associated with the formation of coherent correlated states of protons and deuterons, which leads to a short-term generation of very large fluctuations in the momentum and energy of these particles, and occurs under the action of shock waves and impulse changes of the magnetic field of the star. These effects are identical to the processes that correspond to the standard LENR concepts and proceed at even lower energy.
LENR- Experiment on Heterogeneous Hydrocarbon Plasma Jet Interaction with Ni-Foil-Target
Authors: Klimov A. , Pashchina A.
Published: December 2024

Heterogeneous Hydrocarbon Plasma (HHP) was used in LENR experiments in the studies [1], [2] for the first time. This HHP was created by a pulsed erosive capillary plasma generator (PG). The working erosive substance PMMA (polymethyl-methacrylate, monomer-C5H8O2) was used in this PG. This work is a continuation of the previous ones [1], [2]. A calorimetric experiment with PG and distant Ni-foil cathode has been carried out in argon atmosphere (Pst~1 Bar). It was determined that HHP consists of the carbon nano-clusters and hydrogen atoms + hydrogen ions. These species are connected with dissociation of the initial PMMA. The interaction of HHP with thin Ni-foil target (width 0.1 ÷ 1 mm) has been studied in this work. HHP- jet heats, melts and evaporates this thin Ni-foil target. In a result of this interaction a small hole with diameter 1–3 mm in the Ni-foil target was burned by HHP-jet. Parameters of this hole were measured. Ni-foil weight was measured before and after the experiment also. It was revealed that the value COP was about of 5 ÷ 6 in this experiment (where COP = QT/Qe, QT – thermal energy of heating, melting and evaporating of the Ni-foil-target, Qe-electric energy input for HHP-jet creation). New transmuted chemical elements Li, Al, Ca,. . . were recorded in the HHP by the optical spectroscopy method, the EDS-method and the MS ICP method.
Investigation of LENR Processes Near Incandescent Metals
Authors: Parkhomov A.G. , Karabanov R.V. , Belousova E.O.
Published: December 2024

This paper describes experiments conducted to test the assumption that the source of the agent that causes nuclear transmutations in LENR can be metals heated to a sufficiently high temperature. Tungsten filaments in incandescent lamps, hot iron rods and tungsten powder were used as the heated metal. Heat releases much greater than the electricity used to heat the material, and the formation of many initially absent chemical elements was found. Based on the experimental results obtained by the authors and other researchers, a generalization of the properties of LENR is made, which can form the basis of a theory of this phenomenon.
The Effect Of Workload And Work Stress On Courier Performance At PT. Lazada Elogistics Tasikmalaya
Authors: Nandila Lisma Puput , Barlian Barin , Risana Dudu
Published: December 2024

The Purpose of this research is to determine and analyze Workload, Work Stress on courier Performance at PT Lazada Elogistics Tasikmalaya. The Research Method used was a survey method, and sampling was carried out using a purposive sampling technique. Primary data was obtained directly by distributing questionnaires to 120 courier PT Lazada Elogistics Tasikmalaya respondents and secondary data was obtained from literature review and the company. Data were analyzed using path analysis. The research results show that Workload was in the good category, Work Stress was in the good category, and Courier Performance was in the good category. Partially, Workload has a positive effect on Courier Performance, and work stress has a positive effect on courier performance. Workload and work stress simultaneously influence the courier performance at PT Lazada Elogistics Tasikmalaya Branch.
The Influence Of Beauty Vlogger And Lifestyle On Wardah Cosmetic Purchasing Decisions On Tokopedia E-Commerce (Survey on Female Students in Tasikmalaya City)
Authors: Andriyani Dewi , Lestari Suci Putri , Arif
Published: December 2024

This research aims to determine the influence of Beauty Vlogger and Lifestyle on Wardah Cosmetics Purchasing Decisions on Tokopedia E-Commerce. The method used is quantitative with a research sample of 100 respondents. The data used are primary and secondary data. The analytical tool used in this research is multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS version 25. Based on the results of this research, it shows that Beauty Vlogger and Lifestyle simultaneously have a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions. Beauty Vlogger partially has a significant influence on purchasing decisions. Lifestyle partially has a significant effect on purchasing decisions.
Stereopsis and clinical features of esotropia patients accompanied by congenital mild ptosis
Authors: Choi Heeyoung , Kim Su-Jin , Yang Seung Ahn , Han Kwang Eon
Published: December 2024

Background: To evaluate binocular function and clinical features in patients with esotropia (ET) accompanied by congenital ptosis. Methods: Clinical records of 44 ET patients with congenital ptosis (ET-ptosis group) and 71 age-matched ET patients without ptosis (ET only group) who presented for eye examination between January 2016 and December 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), magnitude of esodeviation and stereopsis at the first visit were reviewed. Stereopsis and other clinical features of the two groups were compared. Results: The mean (±standard deviation) age of overall patients was 5.7 (±1.9) years. The margin reflex distance 1 (MRD1) of patients with ptosis was greater than 0 but less than or equal to 2, indicating that mild ptosis was included. There was no significant difference in the distribution of age, sex, spherical equivalent refractive errors, BCVA, or magnitude of ET (at distance or near) between the two groups (all p>0.05). Furthermore, stereopsis and the number of patients with amblyopia did not differ significantly between the two groups. The magnitudes of esodeviation, near stereopsis and BCVA did not differ significantly between the 0<MRD1≤1 group and the 1<MRD1≤2 group. Conclusions: In patients with ET and congenital mild ptosis, stereopsis and visual acuity were not different from those in ET only patients. The presence of coexisting mild ptosis might not have a further deleterious impact on binocular function in ET patients.
Complement 3a Receptor 1 on Macrophages and Kupffer cells is not required for the Pathogenesis of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Homan Edwin A , Gilani Ankit , Rubio-Navarro Alfonso , Johnson Maya A , Schaepkens Odin M , Cortada Eric , Pereira de Lima Renan , Stoll Lisa , Lo James C
Published: December 2024

Together with obesity and type 2 diabetes, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a growing global epidemic. Activation of the complement system and infiltration of macrophages has been linked to progression of metabolic liver disease. The role of complement receptors in macrophage activation and recruitment in MASLD remains poorly understood. In human and mouse,
C3AR1
in the liver is expressed primarily in Kupffer cells, but is downregulated in humans with MASLD compared to obese controls. To test the role of complement 3a receptor (C3aR1) on macrophages and liver resident macrophages in MASLD, we generated mice deficient in C3aR1 on all macrophages (C3aR1-MjKO) or specifically in liver Kupffer cells (C3aR1-KpKO) and subjected them to a model of metabolic steatotic liver disease. We show that macrophages account for the vast majority of
C3ar1
expression in the liver. Overall, C3aR1-MjKO and C3aR1-KpKO mice have similar body weight gain without significant alterations in glucose homeostasis, hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, compared to controls on a MASLD-inducing diet. This study demonstrates that C3aR1 deletion in macrophages or Kupffer cells, the predominant liver cell type expressing
C3aR1
, has no significant effect on liver steatosis, inflammation or fibrosis in a dietary MASLD model.
Multimodal neural correlates of childhood psychopathology
Authors: Royer Jessica , Kebets Valeria , Piguet Camille , Chen Jianzhong , Ooi Leon Qi Rong , Kirschner Matthias , Siffredi Vanessa , Misic Bratislav , Yeo BT Thomas , Bernhardt Boris C
Published: December 2024

Complex structural and functional changes occurring in typical and atypical development necessitate multidimensional approaches to better understand the risk of developing psychopathology. Here, we simultaneously examined structural and functional brain network patterns in relation to dimensions of psychopathology in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) dataset. Several components were identified, recapitulating the psychopathology hierarchy, with the general psychopathology (p) factor explaining most covariance with multimodal imaging features, while the internalizing, externalizing, and neurodevelopmental dimensions were each associated with distinct morphological and functional connectivity signatures. Connectivity signatures associated with the p factor and neurodevelopmental dimensions followed the sensory-to-transmodal axis of cortical organization, which is related to the emergence of complex cognition and risk for psychopathology. Results were consistent in two separate data subsamples and robust to variations in analytical parameters. Although model parameters yielded statistically significant brain–behavior associations in unseen data, generalizability of the model was rather limited for all three latent components (r change from within- to out-of-sample statistics: LC1within = 0.36, LC1out = 0.03; LC2within = 0.34, LC2out = 0.05; LC3within = 0.35, LC3out = 0.07). Our findings help in better understanding biological mechanisms underpinning dimensions of psychopathology, and could provide brain-based vulnerability markers.
RNA tertiary structure and conformational dynamics revealed by BASH MaP
Authors: Oleynikov Maxim , Jaffrey Samie R
Published: December 2024

The functional effects of an RNA can arise from complex three-dimensional folds known as tertiary structures. However, predicting the tertiary structure of an RNA and whether an RNA adopts distinct tertiary conformations remains challenging. To address this, we developed BASH MaP, a single-molecule dimethyl sulfate (DMS) footprinting method and DAGGER, a computational pipeline, to identify alternative tertiary structures adopted by different molecules of RNA. BASH MaP utilizes potassium borohydride to reveal the chemical accessibility of the N7 position of guanosine, a key mediator of tertiary structures. We used BASH MaP to identify diverse conformational states and dynamics of RNA G-quadruplexes, an important RNA tertiary motif, in vitro and in cells. BASH MaP and DAGGER analysis of the fluorogenic aptamer Spinach reveals that it adopts alternative tertiary conformations which determine its fluorescence states. BASH MaP thus provides an approach for structural analysis of RNA by revealing previously undetectable tertiary structures.
Generative AI and future education: a review, theoretical validation, and authors’ perspective on challenges and solutions
Authors: Monib Wali Khan , Qazi Atika , Apong Rosyzie Anna , Azizan Mohammad Tazli , De Silva Liyanage , Yassin Hayati
Published: December 2024

Generative AI (Gen AI), exemplified by ChatGPT, has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity recently. This cutting-edge technology demonstrates an exceptional ability to produce human-like responses and engage in natural language conversations guided by context-appropriate prompts. However, its integration into education has become a subject of ongoing debate. This review examines the challenges of using Gen AI like ChatGPT in education and offers effective strategies. To retrieve relevant literature, a search of reputable databases was conducted, resulting in the inclusion of twenty-two publications. Using Atlas.ti, the analysis reflected six primary challenges with plagiarism as the most prevalent issue, closely followed by responsibility and accountability challenges. Concerns were also raised about privacy, data protection, safety, and security risks, as well as discrimination and bias. Additionally, there were challenges about the loss of soft skills and the risks of the digital divide. To address these challenges, a number of strategies were identified and subjected to critical evaluation to assess their practicality. Most of them were practical and align with the ethical and pedagogical theories. Within the prevalent concepts, “ChatGPT” emerged as the most frequent one, followed by “AI,” “student,” “research,” and “education,” highlighting a growing trend in educational discourse. Moreover, close collaboration was evident among the leading countries, all forming a single cluster, led by the United States. This comprehensive review provides implications, recommendations, and future prospects concerning the use of generative AI in education.
LOGIC: LLM-originated guidance for internal cognitive improvement of small language models in stance detection
Authors: Lee Woojin , Lee Jaewook , Kim Harksoo
Published: December 2024

Stance detection is a critical task in natural language processing that determines an author’s viewpoint toward a specific target, playing a pivotal role in social science research and various applications. Traditional approaches incorporating Wikipedia-sourced data into small language models (SLMs) to compensate for limited target knowledge often suffer from inconsistencies in article quality and length due to the diverse pool of Wikipedia contributors. To address these limitations, we utilize large language models (LLMs) pretrained on expansive datasets to generate accurate and contextually relevant target knowledge. By providing concise, real-world insights tailored to the stance detection task, this approach surpasses the limitations of Wikipedia-based information. Despite their superior reasoning capabilities, LLMs are computationally intensive and challenging to deploy on smaller devices. To mitigate these drawbacks, we introduce a reasoning distillation methodology that transfers the reasoning capabilities of LLMs to more compact SLMs, enhancing their efficiency while maintaining robust performance. Our stance detection model, LOGIC (LLM-Originated Guidance for Internal Cognitive improvement of small language models in stance detection), is built on Bidirectional and Auto-Regressive Transformer (BART) and fine-tuned with auxiliary learning tasks, including reasoning distillation. By incorporating LLM-generated target knowledge into the inference process, LOGIC achieves state-of-the-art performance on the VAried Stance Topics (VAST) dataset, outperforming advanced models like GPT-3.5 Turbo and GPT-4 Turbo in stance detection tasks.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Endophytic Bacteria Isolated from Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranea) Nodules in Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Raïssa GUEI Nassé Kaéda , Kaoutar TAHA , Gisèle KOFFI Amoin , Martinez GUEI Arnauth , Mathurin KOFFI , Abdelkarim FILALI-MALTOUF , Ibrahim KONATE
Published: December 2024

A thorough understanding of the diversity, functions and specific interactions of endophytic bacteria present in legumes is essential for improving crop production. This study aimed to identify roots nodule endophytes associated to Bambara groundnut by analyzing their morphological diversity and genetic diversity. A total of 34 bacterial isolates were sampled from different cultivation sites and associated with 5 local varieties of Bambara groundnut.
Morphological analysis using macroscopic and microscopic observation revealed that the bacterial isolates were morphologically diverse in terms of colony appearance, shape, colony size, color, opacity and Gram stain result. These bacteria exhibited characters different from those of the symbiotic bacteria. In addition, molecular identification based on sequencing the 16S-rRNA gene and 1081 bp analysis showed the existence of non-symbiotic bacteria in Bambara groundnut nodule. The community of roots nodule endophyte isolated from Bambara groundnut belonged to the genera Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Bacterium, microbacterium, Rahnella, Paenibacillus, Lysobacter with 98 to 99.5% similarity, classified under the Firmicutes, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria phyla. In Bambara groundnut, the predominant nodule endophytes were Bacillus (56%) and Pseudomonas (17%).
Future research could further investigate the ecological implications of these bacterial interactions, and their potential applications in biotechnology and agronomy, particularly in biofertilization and host plant growth promotion.
Morphometric Analysis of Olanthichira Watershed using Geographic Information System in Malappuram District, Kerala, India
Authors: Revathi N. , S. Sajeena
Published: December 2024

Morphometric analysis of watershed is important for understanding its geo-hydrological behaviour. The objective of this study is to determine morphometric parameters of Olanthichira watershed, Kuttipuram block, Malappuram district of state Kerala, India. The stream channels of the watershed were extracted from SRTM DEM and SOI topographical maps on 1:50,000 scale using Hydrology tools in Arc GIS software showing dendritic drainage pattern. Then morphometric analysis is carried out by determining parameters of linear, areal and relief aspects. Drainage density of 1.836 km/km2 is moderate suggests semi-permeable rocks, moderate relief, and a balanced hydrological response. The drainage texture of watershed is 4.359/km indicates a moderate to fine drainage texture means the watershed has a fairly advanced drainage system, with a moderate number of stream channels with highest channel maintenance constant of 0.544 experiencing low runoff and fewer structural disruptions. The moderate bifurcation ratio of 3.68 in a drainage network suggests that the network's development is influenced by some degree of structural control. The areal aspects of the watershed point out elongated shape which possess lower erosion and sediment transport capacities and less prone to sudden floods but might require interventions to prevent sediment deposition in channels. The results of morphometric analysis along with slope map, aspect map and vegetation (NDVI) map are helpful for decision makers to implement soil and water conservation measures for sustainable management of the resources in watershed.
Variation of Some Agro-Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties in Response to Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates at Djirataoua in Southern Niger Republic
Authors: Soulé Abdelkader Mahamane , Moussa Oumarou Abdoulaye , Allah Mainassara Zaman , Mansour Auwalu Bindawa
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen is the most limiting plant nutrient element of soils in Niger. Farmers apply nitrogen to increase yield of cereal crops. A survey conducted at Djirataoua in southern Niger, revealed that wheat growers applied nitrogen fertilizer with less technical knowledge resulting in low response on growth and yield. To produce suitable recommendations to farmers, a field experiment was conducted during two dry seasons (2016/2017 and 2017/2018) at Djirataoua (13°25’59’’N, 7°8’12’’E). The aim of the study was to determine the optimum level of Nitrogen for highest yield and agro-physiological parameters of wheat varieties. Four Nitrogen levels (0, 100, 150 and 200 kg N ha-1) and four wheat varieties were evaluated in this study. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications. Data collected on grain yield, chlorophyll, Nitrogen uptake and protein content were subjected to the analysis of variance and mean comparison. The results showed that application of 150 kg N ha-1 Nitrogen resulted in highest grain yield (3202 kg ha-1), chlorophyll content (50.9 SPAD) N uptake (72.63 kg ha-1), and protein content (135.5 g kg-1). The wheat varieties were significantly different in these parameters. Reyna-28 and Sokoll/3/ produced higher grain yield and Nitrogen uptake. Higher protein content was observed in Norman and Sokoll/3/. Significant interactions were observed between Nitrogen rates and variety on yield characters, Nitrogen uptake and protein content. The highest grain yield, Nitrogen uptake and chlorophyll content were achieved by interaction of Reyna-28 and Sokoll/3/ with 150 kg N ha-1. Therefore, application of 150 kg N ha-1 and using varieties Reyna-28 or Sokoll/3/ is recommended to farmers for maximum grain yield and high protein content.
Soil Carbon Sequestration in Different Land Use Types
Authors: T.S. Babalola, , O.J. Omoju, , A.S. Fasina, , S.O. Ajayi
Published: December 2024

Assessing the influence of agricultural land use on soil carbon sequestration is important for the management of soil carbon stocks in cultivated sandy soils. Soil carbon sequestration in different land use types was studied in Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. Three oil palm fields, OM1, OM2, and OM3, of different years of establishment and management practices were selected, along with nursery (NUR), livestock (LIV), vegetable (VEG), arable (ARB), and fallow (FAL) land. Soil samples were collected in the representative portion of each land use and analyzed for particle size distribution, bulk density, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, organic carbon, and pH, while the soil carbon sequestration was calculated. OM1 (6.72 tons/ha) and LIV (6.40 ton/ha) sequestered more carbon than other land use types, revealing the potential of oil palm to sequester carbon in sandy soils. There is a significant relationship between bulk density and soil carbon sequestered in the land use; therefore, practices that will improve the soil bulk density and increase the soil organic matter were recommended.