bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proposed variations in nominal reinforcement cover based on the environmental aggressivity class (EAC) of concrete exposure
Authors: Pacheco Fernanda , Ehrenbring Hinoel Zamis , Christ Roberto , Moreira Gian de Fraga , Kramer Henrique dos Santos , Tutikian Bernardo Fonseca
Published: March 2024

Abstract The physical and chemical protection of steel reinforcement afforded by the cover is a consequence of the quality of the concrete and its thickness, with a long-term impact on durability and service life. This study proposed variations in cover based on environmental aggressivity class (EAC) of exposure considering concretes of prescribed compressive strength classes (C20/C25/C30/C40). To this end, concrete mixtures were subjected to accelerated testing in salt spray chambers or carbonation. Accelerated testing was kept for periods long enough to reach each EAC cover level. Thus, the effect of each EAC, from mild to severe, was determined on the physical and mechanical characteristics of each mixture. It was determined that the required reinforcement cover varied linearly with compressive strength. This denoted the possibility of using more than one class of concrete and cover for each EAC. It should be noted that the difference in required cover became greater when using concrete with a strength class higher than C30. Still, it was noticed that the chloride ions attack s was more severe than carbonation and was, for most of the test cases, the determinant factor in minimum cover thickness to ensure the desired durability.
Embodied Visual Meaning [in] Motion
Authors: Coegnarts Maarten
Published: March 2024

Following the embodied mind thesis, this video essay aims to demonstrate how dynamic patterns of containment, as elicited by the stylistic means of fixed-frame movement and mobile framing, play a significant role in fleshing out narrative meanings in film.
Hannibal: A Fanvid
Authors: Morimoto Lori
Published: March 2024

The video is a fanvid(eographic essay) that explores and embodies the il/legitimacies of narrative, aesthetics, and even subjectivity that characterize both Hannibal and its queer, fanboy creator.
Alan Bates ‘78
Authors: Smith Jacob
Published: March 2024

"Alan Bates ’78" examines a pivotal period in the career of the British film actor Alan Bates, using the actor’s statements about his affection for a particular role as a catalyst for the analysis of what Pierre Bourdieu calls a career trajectory.
Film-with-Live-Orchestra Concerts: A New Hope
Authors: Sekar Sureshkumar
Published: March 2024

In this "docuratory film," I propose the theory of “aLiveness”—an attribute of a performance by which audience becomes conscious of the affective power and the aesthetic elements of a work of art.
A critical review of biomarkers in toxicology and risk assessment of environmental pollutants
Authors: Youssef Salama , Mohammed Chennaoui
Published: March 2024

Over the last 30 years, the study of biomarkers has experienced significant growth. Biomarkers serve as essential tools in monitoring toxicology and risk assessment of environmental pollutants by providing early and specific endpoints. This expansion in the field has enabled researchers to better understand the impact of various environmental pollutants on living organisms and ecosystems. By utilizing biomarkers, scientists can assess the potential risks posed by these pollutants and develop effective strategies for environmental protection and preservation. This article briefly reviews some of the aspects in an attempt to give an overall view of the field. Some of the new developments, particularly in relation to biomarkers of exposure and response, are mentioned.
Modeling, mechanics and experimental investigation of perpetual vibration of serial-chain direct-drive flexible robotic system
Authors: Debanik Roy
Published: March 2024

The domain of Flexible Robotic Systems (FRS) is an exciting ensemble of global robotics research of the present decade, which unfurls various real-time data like rheology, vibration, sensor fusion, and non-linear coupled dynamics for control. As some of these features, especially strain-induced deflection and vibration, are inherent in FRS, the design and prototype development of multiple degrees-of-freedom flexible robots is highly challenging. The paper addresses the aforementioned design paradigms of FRS through logical understanding by giving importance to the manufacturable design-variables. Further, these design issues for the firmware of higher-order FRS have been explained with a focus on the novel design and hardware development of a prototype multi-link serial-chain FRS fitted with a miniaturized gripper at the free end. Besides hardware realization, the paper brings out an interesting feature in experimental robotics, namely, the evaluation of the natural frequency of vibration of a flexible manipulator using real-time data on dynamic strain produced within its body. This niche methodology gets propelled by the data from multiple strain-detecting sensors placed judiciously over the links of the FRS. Guided by this lemma, a novel theoretical analysis of the optimal placement of strain-sensors over the external surface of the FRS is described. Additionally, the paper dwells on a novel scheme for dynamic analysis as well as control system logic for the developed FRS. This research provides a complete canvas of design, modeling, firmware development, and experimental ab initio evaluation of perpetual in-situ vibration of a typical serial-chain FRS
BAF_Protocol_007 Solution Digest with Protein Precipitation v1
Authors: Sherman Nicholas
Published: March 2024

The protocol is a method to digest a protein mixture obtained from a cell lysis or tissue that is in solution. The protocol includes a precipitation step to clean up the proteins before digestion. The protein mixture can then be digested and the resulting peptides cleaned up using protocol 003 and/or 006.
Plastics Study and Protocol v1
Authors: Kang Matthew , Manalese Jayden
Published: March 2024

Plastic waste washed upon shores have anthropogenically impacted communities and wildlife. However, the information related to the scale and urgency of this concern is not well quantitatively defined. The procedure uses case studied areas of Mo'orea's coast to collect and assess the amount and type of plastic waste - this is then extrapolated Island wide to gather more insight into this issue.
Reconstitution of human PINK1 and outer mitochondria TOM complex in yeast v1
Authors: G. Raimi Olawale
Published: March 2024

PTEN induced kinase 1(PINK1) is a mitochondria kinase that phosphorylates ubiquitin and Ubl domain of parkin coincidentally at structurally obscured S65 in both proteins and initiate mitophagy. Dysregulation of this process has been implicated in cancer, obesity, cardiac disease, and neurodegenerative diseases (Youle and Narendra, 2011). PINK1 and TOM complex are key regulators in the mitochondrial quality control pathway. Physiologically under ideal condition PINK1 via its MTS forms a complex with the tom complex comprising of seven individual toms (TOMs 5, 6, 7, 20, 22, 40 and 70) going through the pores of TOM40 into the inner mitochondria (IMM) (Rasool et al., 2022). In the IMM PINK1 is cleaved within the MTS region precisely between residues 103 and 104 by two IMM proteases, MPP and PARL. The processed PINK1 is then released back into the cytosol where it is channelled towards proteasomal degradation (Rasool et al., 2022). In a pathological condition however, that’s upon mitochondrial damage, PINK1 import is blocked, preventing its processing. This results in PINK1 accumulation at the outer mitochondria membrane (OMM) and the activation of PINK1 through autophosphorylation, which subsequently initiates the mitophagy pathway to prevent the accumulation of reactive oxygen species from damaged mitochondria which could lead to cell apoptosis (Rasool et al., 2022). Here we describe in detail the protocol for making yeast cells stably expressing PINK1 and Human TOMs which has allowed us to characterise PINK1 when co-express with the TOMs.
Intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma: refining substaging or shifting paradigm?
Authors: Stefanini Bernardo , Ielasi Luca , Pallotta Dante Pio , Penazza Sofia , Marseglia Mariarosaria , Piscaglia Fabio
Published: March 2024

This review explores the evolution of cancer staging, focusing on intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the challenges faced by physicians. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system, introduced in 1999, was designed to address the limitations associated with providing accurate prognostic information for HCC and allocating specific treatments, to avoid overtreatment. However, criticism has emerged, particularly regarding the intermediate stage of HCC (BCLC-B) and its heterogeneous patient population. To overcome this limitation, various subclassification systems, such as the Bolondi and Kinki criteria, have been proposed. These systems are aimed at refining categorizations within the intermediate stage and have demonstrated varying degrees of success in predicting outcomes through external validation. This study discusses the shift in treatment paradigms, emphasizing the need for a more personalized approach rather than strictly adhering to cancer stages, without dismissing the relevance of staging systems. It assesses the available treatment options for intermediate-stage HCC, highlighting the importance of considering surgical and nonsurgical options alongside transarterial chemoembolization for optimal outcomes. In conclusion, the text advocates for a paradigm shift in staging systems prioritizing treatment suitability over cancer stage. This reflects the evolving landscape of HCC management, where a multidisciplinary approach is crucial for tailoring treatments to individual patients, ultimately aiming to improve overall survival.
The Classification of Aflatoxin Contamination Level in Cocoa Beans using Fluorescence Imaging and Deep learning
Authors: Sadimantara Muhammad Syukri , Argo Bambang Dwi , Sucipto Sucipto , Al Riza Dimas Firmanda , Hendrawan Yusuf
Published: March 2024

Aflatoxin contamination in cacao is a significant problem in terms of trade losses and health effects. This calls for the need for a non-invasive, precise, and effective detection strategy. This research contribution is to determine the best deep-learning model to classify the aflatoxin contamination level in cocoa beans based on fluorescence images and deep learning to improve performance in the classification. The process involved inoculating and incubating Aspergillus flavus (6mL/100g) to obtain aflatoxin-contaminated cocoa beans for 7 days during the incubation period. Liquid Mass Chromatography (LCMS) was used to quantify the aflatoxin in order to categorize the images into different levels including “free of aflatoxin”, “contaminated below the limit”, and “contaminated above the limit”.  300 images were acquired through a mini studio equipped with UV lamps.  The aflatoxin level was classified using several pre-trained CNN approaches which has high accuracy such as GoogLeNet, SqueezeNet, AlexNet, and ResNet50. The sensitivity analysis showed that the highest classification accuracy was found in the GoogLeNet model with optimizer: Adam and learning rate: 0.0001 by 96.42%. The model was tested using a testing dataset and obtain accuracy of 96% based on the confusion matrix. The findings indicate that combining CNN with fluorescence images improved the ability to classify the amount of aflatoxin contamination in cacao beans. This method has the potential to be more accurate and economical than the current approach, which could be adapted to reduce aflatoxin's negative effects on food safety and cacao trade losses.
Monitoring DC Motor Based On LoRa and IOT
Authors: Suhermanto Dimas Ahmad Nur Kholis , Aribowo Widi , Shehadeh Hisham A. , Rahmadian Reza , Widyartono Mahendra , Wardani Ayusta Lukita , Hermawan Aditya Chandra
Published: March 2024

Electrical energy efficiency is a dynamic in itself that continues to be driven by electrical energy providers. In this work, long-range (LoRa) technology is used to monitor DC motors. In the modern world, IoT is becoming increasingly prevalent. Embedded systems are now widely used in daily life. More can be done remotely in terms of control and monitoring. LoRa is a new technology discovered and developing rapidly. LoRa technology addresses the need for battery-operated embedded devices. LoRa technology is a long-range, low-power technology. In this investigation, a LoRa transmitter and a LoRa receiver were employed. This study employed a range of cases to test the LoRa device. In the first instance, there are no barriers, whereas there are in the second instance. The results of the two trials showed that the LoRa transmitter and receiver had successful communication. In this study, the room temperature is used to control DC motors. So that the DC motor's speed adjusts to fluctuations in the room's temperature. Additionally, measuring tools and the sensors utilised in this investigation were contrasted. The encoder sensor and the INA 219 sensor were the two measured sensors employed in this study. According to the findings of the experiment, the tool was functioning properly.
Enhancing Security Mechanisms for IoT-Fog Networks
Authors: Mansour Salah-Eddine , Sakhi Abdelhak , Kzaz Larbi , Sekkaki Abderrahim
Published: March 2024

This study contributes to improving Morocco's fish canning industry by integrating artificial intelligence (AI). The primary objective involves developing an AI and image processing-based system to monitor and guarantee canning process quality in the facility. It commenced with an IoT-enabled device capable of capturing and processing images, leading to the creation of an AI-driven system adept at accurately categorizing improperly crimped cans. Further advancements focused on reinforcing communication between IoT devices and servers housing individual client's neural network weights. These weights are vital, ensuring the functionality of our IoT device. The efficiency of the IoT device in categorizing cans relies on updated neural network weights from the Fog server, crucial for continual refinement and adaptation to diverse can shapes. Securing communication integrity between devices and the server is imperative to avoid disruptions in can classification, emphasizing the need for secure channels. In this paper, our key scientific contribution revolves around devising a security protocol founded on HMAC. This protocol guarantees authentication and preserves the integrity of neural network weights exchanged between Fog computing nodes and IoT devices. The innovative addition of a comprehensive dictionary within the Fog server significantly bolsters security measures, enhancing the overall safety between these interconnected entities.
A 5-year-old girl case of spastic paraplegia type 56, a mutation in the CYP2U1 gene
Authors: Alotayk Noura , Almunyif Raghad M. , Moukais Imad S.
Published: March 2024

This case report details the presentation, diagnosis, and management of a 5-year-old girl from Saudi Arabia with Spastic Paraplegia Type 56 (SPG56) resulting from a novel mutation in the CYP2U1 gene. SPG56, a rare form of hereditary spastic paraplegia, exhibits genetic variability, impacting neurological and extra-neurological functions. The patient's clinical course involved a fall at age 2, subsequent motor deterioration, cognitive delays, and spasticity. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, including genetic testing, identified a homozygous likely pathogenic variant in CYP2U1. Despite outpatient therapy, the patient underwent a four-week intensive rehabilitation course to address spasticity and enhance daily living activities. This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing and managing SPG56 and underscores the importance of genetic testing in complex neurodegenerative cases.
Analysis of Technologies for Degassing MSW Landfill by Visualization of Isolines of Concentrations of Biogas Components
Authors: Gonopolsky A.M. , Ostrovkin I.M. , Shirochenkov A.I.
Published: March 2024

To detail the distribution of biogas components by height from the surface of landfill, this article proposes a method for visualizing multidimensional data that complements the flat map of field measurements of gas generation with a vertical coordinate reflecting the isolines of concentrations of biogas components by height above the landfill surface. The three-dimensional surface obtained by combining the data of field measurements of gas generation and calculations, according to empirical models, of isolines of concentrations in height, visualizes the zone of the atmosphere of the MSW landfill.
Faculty Development Program (FDP) Of Selected Private Colleges In General Santos City: Its Impact On Organizational Commitment And Adaptive Performance, Basis For Enhanced Retention Program
Authors: Peñaflor Marivic
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine How faculty Development Program affected the organizational commitment and adaptive performance of faculty members among selected private Higher Educational Institutions in General Santos City. The overarching objective of the program was to develop an intervention designed to yield an intervention program that will help increase if not sustain the above-variables of the study. The research utilized an adapted 4-part questionnaire to assess 104 faculty members, investigating the impact of Faculty Development Programs (FDP) on organizational commitment and adaptive performance. Employing a descriptive-correlational research design, the study employed the Input-Process-Output (IPO) paradigm to thoroughly analyze each variable, supported by a comprehensive review of related literature. Statistical analysis including frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson r revealed that FDP positively influenced professional development, teaching skills, leadership, classroom management, knowledge and skills, and organizational participation. Respondents demonstrated moderate affective commitment, high continuance commitment, and moderate normative commitment, alongside adaptive behaviors in handling emergencies, managing work stress, problem-solving, and interpersonal, cultural, and physical adaptability. Based on these findings, a recommended intervention program in the form of a training workshop aims to further enhance faculty development.
Zagłada w twórczości Mariana Pankowskiego
Authors: Morawiec Arkadiusz
Published: March 2024

Przedmiotem artykułu jest tematyka Holokaustu w twórczości Mariana Pankowskiego: jej źródła, związki z tematyką obozową, konkretne dzieła i ich poetyka, a także powiązana z tematem Zagłady problematyka estetyczna, społeczna i polityczna.
Przestrzeń jako obraz świadomości w powieści Stanisława Lema „Pamiętnik znaleziony w wannie”
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Adam
Published: March 2024

Artykuł poświęcony jest jednej z najbardziej wieloznacznych powieści Stanisława Lema — Pamiętnikowi znalezionemu w wannie. Świat bohatera Pamiętnika, pozbawiony łączności z tym, co zewnętrzne, zawiera się w umyśle postaci. Samoidentyfikacja wiążąca się nierozerwalnie z odosobnieniem, jest paradoksalnie niemożliwa do osiągnięcia w labiryncie korytarzy budowli. „Ja” bohatera, dążące do „bycia sobą”, nie może zdobyć pełni tożsamości, ponieważ niezdolne pozostaje do dookreślenia siebie w relacji do struktur Gmachu.
Misericordia: apuntes filosóficos para una intrahistoria de la piedad a partir de textos de Miguel de Unamuno (1864-1936) y de María Zambrano (1904-1991)
Authors: Bonilla Alcira Beatriz
Published: March 2024

Con la palabra Misericordia, título de una de las últimas novelas de Benito Pérez Galdós, se indica el carácter de meditación filosófica otorgado a esta exposición. Esta palabra, emblemática de aquello que Unamuno y Zambrano designaron con el término “piedad”, clave de su pensamiento, y personajes galdosianos, como Benina y Almudena, anacrónicos ejemplos de la “intrahistoria”, proporcionan una atmósfera propicia para engarzar la obra de ambos pensadores. Con gran dominio de la tradición filosófica y literaria española, hispanoamericana y occidental, así como de la lengua castellana, tanto Unamuno como Zambrano volcaron en muchos textos difíciles de leer actualmente, su pasión compartida por encontrar en las honduras del “misterio” humano la raíz de una posible, aunque difícil (agónica) convivialidad. En este trabajo nos asomamos a ellos.
Heteronomía de la justicia: traducir a Job en clave de utopía
Authors: Rabinovich Silvana
Published: March 2024

Desde una lectura heterónoma, que ilumina entre las líneas la justicia (nomos) del otro (heteron), este artículo propone una aproximación al libro de Job a través de la traducción a la lengua judeo-árabe que de este texto bíblico realizó Rabi Saadia Gaon en el siglo X. Se tratará de abordar el Tafsīr del libro de Job como actualización del matiz utópico de la traducción. Escrito en la forma de preguntas y respuestas, este trabajo se hace eco del carácter dialógico y cuestionador que caracteriza al libro de Job.
Infancias diversas desde el horizonte impolítico. Un rastreo por fuera de las hegemonías
Authors: Fernández Ricci María Martha
Published: March 2024

En este artículo reflexionamos sobre las infancias considerando su diversidad e irreductibilidad, desde el horizonte categorial impolítico. Infancias constituidas por la complejidad que supone la diversidad funcional, de género y cultural, pero a la vez sobre infancias pensadas en el mundo y con él, emplazadas en la diversidad ambiental. Fundamentamos la pertinencia de pensarlas desde la perspectiva impolítica, a partir de los aportes de Blanchot y Nancy, por su enfoque premoderno que interpela cualquier escatología y teleología que impongan condiciones de progreso, funcionalidad y apropiación. En primera instancia, brindaremos las erosiones impuestas desde miradas dualistas, más aún positivistas, muchas veces logocéntricas respecto al espacio-tiempo del juego. Finalmente, buscaremos interpretar otras perspectivas en referencia de las infancias sugeridas en la literatura y el cine, con sus influencias hegemónicas en tensión con la postura de Deligny. Enunciar “infancias diversas” como tautología, que muestra el fracaso producido por el reduccionismo y la violencia, al observarlas desde los mandatos teleológicos de la modernidad.
The limitations of Private International Law regarding the protection of unaccompanied migrant children in the European Union
Authors: Beltrame de Moura Aline , Lerin Carla
Published: March 2024

This article aims to explore whether the rules of Private International Law (PIL) effectively safeguard the parental responsibility and protection of children, specifically addressing the protection of unaccompanied children migrating to the European Union (EU). The objective is to enhance the protection of the best interests of these minors. The study employs the inductive method, starting with the analysis of specific legislation and jurisprudence to derive a general premise as a conclusion. The research methodology involves bibliographic and documentary research. The findings reveal that, from a practical standpoint, PIL has limitations in its application, failing to fulfill its role in protecting the best interests of unaccompanied children in the EU.
Cyberspace and women’s human rights in the international legal order
Authors: Estrada Tanck Dorothy
Published: March 2024

Cyberspace has exacerbated certain transnational risks, such as cyber-discrimination, harassment, and aggression, particularly affecting women and girls on the basis of gender. Gender-based violence as a form of gender discrimination, including in its new forms, harms women and girls disproportionately, especially in their rights to equality, freedom from violence and freedom of expression. This article explores the contributions offered by different sources of law, in particular international human rights law, to address these gender-based risks and to prevent, eradicate and redress discrimination and gendered cyber-violations. It also analyses the opportunities that both the technological advancement concerning cyberspace, and the normative and interpretative standards developed to this effect, present for the construction of gender equality for women and girls worldwide.
Declaraciones ambientales, competencia desleal y patrones en la jurisprudencia comparada
Authors: Miranda Anguita Ana
Published: March 2024

La creciente preocupación por los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS) ha adquirido una importancia significativa en los últimos años. Esto explica el incremento que han experimentado las declaraciones ambientales de las empresas en el mercado. En este contexto se desarrollan las prácticas de blanqueo ecológico o greenwashing sobre las que versa este trabajo. En él se responde afirmativamente a la cuestión de si la normativa vigente sobre competencia desleal contiene instrumentos adecuados para combatir este tipo de conductas. Además, se examinan las nuevas normas armonizadoras que propone aprobar la Unión Europea en este ámbito. Por último, se presta atención a la jurisprudencia comparada, extrayendo algunas conclusiones de interés acerca del modo en que las diferentes jurisdicciones vienen abordando esta problemática.
Reinterpretation of the Event Horizon: Unveiling the Boundary Between Universe and Anti-Universe
Authors: Laforet Christopher
Published: March 2024

This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of radially infalling worldlines within both Schwarzschild and Kruskal-Szekeres coordinate systems. An innovative Schwarzschild coordinate chart is introduced, which accentuates the curvature of both temporal and spatial coordinates. This novel chart not only elucidates the mechanism underlying the inertial observer's acceleration relative to stationary observers but also unequivocally illustrates the light-like nature of the inertial worldline at the event horizon. Subsequently, the light-like character of the falling frame is substantiated through an examination of falling worldlines in Kruskal-Szekeres coordinates. The transition from time-like to light-like geodesics at the horizon is rationalized by postulating that Einstein-Rosen bridges do not delineate a mere connection between two events within our Universe; rather, the event horizon serves as a juncture connecting our Universe with a CPT symmetric anti-Universe. Upon a particle's fall to the event horizon, it encounters its corresponding antiparticle falling in the anti-Universe, precipitating their mutual annihilation at the horizon. Consequently, photons become ensnared at the horizon, augmenting the mass of the black hole.
Phytochemical Screening of the Ethanolic Extract of Acanthospermum hispidum and Moringa oleifera for their Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Ojo Femi , Ozgor Erkay
Published: March 2024

Aim: M. oleifera, a tree that have medicinal applications. A.hispidum has been utilized in traditional medicine as a cure for microbial and other infections. The aim of this study is to evaluate the bioactive compounds of A.hispidum and M.oleifera and determination of Antioxidant, Anticancer, Antifungal and Antibacterial for their pharmaceutical importance.
Methods: Fresh leaves of these plants were collected from Akinmoorin and Awe in Nigeria. Particles Induced X-Ray Emission method was carried out via a 2.5MeV proton beam. Detection of phytochemicals was carried out by HPLC analysis. Disc diffusion method was used to determine MIC for fungi and MIC for bacteria. DPPH radical scavenging activity of these plant leaves was determined. Cancer cells were cultivated using 5% CO2 with 95% air in 100% relative humidity. The adherent cells were seeded and subjected to treatment with increase concentrations of the plant extracts from 48–72 h for anti-cancer activity.
Results: The mean ± S.E. of the mean (S.E.M.) for all data were displayed. Three copies of the invitro experiment data were collected. For unpaired data, the student's t-test was applied at P < 0.05, the differences in the data were deemed significant. The ethanolic extracts showed on the average a 50% reduction in cancer cell viability at 24.5μg mL−1 for MO and 16.0μg mL−1 for AH respectively.
Conclusions: The results of this study indicated these two plants have Antioxidant, Antitumor, Antifungal and Antibacterial activity and it is recommended that the active constituents be isolated and formulated into suitable dosage form.
Keywords: Phytochemical Screening; pharmacological activities; Acanthospermum hispidum; Moringa oleifera.
Energetic Features of H-bonded and π-stacked Assemblies in Pyrazole-based Coordination Compounds of Mn(II) and Cu(II): Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Boro Mridul , Baishya Trishnajyoti , Frontera Antonio , Barceló-Oliver Miquel , Battacharyya Manjit K
Published: March 2024

Two new coordination compounds of Mn(II) and Cu(II) viz. [Mn(bz)2(Hdmpz)2(H2O)] (1) and [Cu(crot)2(Hdmpz)2] (2) (where, bz = benzoate, crot = crotonate, Hdmpz = 3, 5-dimethyl pyrazole) have been synthesized and characterized using single crystal X-ray diffraction technique, FT-IR, electronic spectroscopy, TGA and elemental analyses. Compounds 1 and 2 crystallize as mono-nuclear coordination compounds of Hdmpz based penta-coordinated Mn(II) and hexa-coordinated Cu(II) respectively containing distorted trigonal bipyramidal and distorted octahedral geome-tries. Crystal structure analysis of compound 1 reveals the presence C‒H⋯π and π-stacking in-teractions along with O‒H⋯O, N‒H⋯O and C‒H⋯O H-bonding interactions which stabilizes the layered assembly of the compound. Similarly, the presence of hydrogen bonding along with π-stacking interactions stabilizes the crystal structure of compound 2. We have carried out theo-retical investigations to analyze π⋯π H-bonding and antiparallel CH···π non-covalent interac-tions observed in the compounds. DFT calculations were performed to evaluate strength of these interactions energetically. Moreover, QTAIM and non-covalent interaction (NCI) plot index computational tool were used to characterize them and evaluate the contribution of the H-bonds.
Histone Methyltransferase SsDim5 Regulates Fungal Virulence through H3K9 Trimethylation in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Qin Lei , Gong Xin , Nong Jieying , Tang Xianyu , Cui Kan , Zhao Yan , Xia Shitou
Published: March 2024

Histone post-translational modification is one of the main mechanisms of epigenetic regulation, which plays a crucial role in the control of gene expression and various biological processes. However, whether or not it affects fungal virulence is not clear in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. In this study, we identified and cloned the histone methyltransferase Defective in methylation 5 (Dim5) in S. sclerotiorum, which encodes a protein containing a typical SET domain. SsDim5 was found to be dynamically expressed during infection. Knockout experiment demonstrated that deletion of SsDim5 reduced the virulence in Ssdim5-1/Ssdim5-2 mutant strains, accompanied by a significant decrease in H3K9 trimethylation levels. Transcriptomic analysis further revealed the downregulation of genes associated with mycotoxins biosynthesis in SsDim5 deletion mutants. Additionally, the absence of SsDim5 affected the fungus's response to oxidative and osmotic, as well as cellular integrity. Together, our results indicate that the H3K9 methyltransferase SsDim5 is essential for H3K9 trimethylation, which regulating fungal virulence to host plants through impacting on mycotoxins biosynthesis, and the response to environmental stresses in S. sclerotiorum.
Evaluation of Antiviral Properties of Various Materials Using Influenza Virus and Feline Calicivirus
Authors: Tamura Toma , Ogawa Akiko , Miura Hidekazu , Nakajima Eri , Imoto Yasuo , Hirai Nobumitsu , Kamijo Toshio , Endo Hirotoshi , Hagio Takeshi , Ichino Ryoichi , Barry Dana M. , Kanematsu Hideyuki
Published: March 2024

An influenza A virus (H3N2) with an envelope with the same structure as COVID-19 was used for antiviral testing of material surfaces, in comparison with some results of feline calicivirus. The evaluation method used was the film adhesion method, in which the virus solution is placed on the material and adhered to it using a film. The evaluation method was based on the film adhesion method, in which the virus solution is placed on the material and adhered with a film, and the plaque method, in which the cell virus is allowed to infect the material and form plaques, but the appropriate virus concentration must be adjusted to observe the plaques. When not under that restriction, the plaques are often incomplete; this is observed. For this reason, this study applied an area measurement method that can reflect viral activity even when plaques are not obtained. This study revealed that different types of metallic materials have different antiviral properties. Specifically, the antiviral activity of iron, carbon steel, and nickel was relatively high, while that of stainless steel and titanium was relatively low. The order of antiviral activity was as follows: Fe, SS400, Ni, SUS316L, SUS304, and Ti.
Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Investigation on the Permeation of Sodium and Chloride Ions through Nanopores in Graphene and Hexagonal Boron Nitride Membranes
Authors: Dehhaghi Yasaman , Kiakojouri Ali , Frank Irmgard , Nadimi Ebrahim
Published: March 2024

Nanoporous membranes promise energy-efficient water desalination. Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), like graphene, exhibits outstanding physical and chemical properties, making it a promising candidate for water treatment. We employed Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics simulations to establish accurate modeling of Na+ and Cl- permeation through hydrogen passivated nanopores in graphene and h-BN membranes. In these complex systems the classical potentials cannot properly account for the physics at play. We demonstrate that ion separation works well for the h-BN by imposing a barrier of 0.13 eV and 0.24 eV for Na+ and Cl- permeation respectively, compared to the graphene where the Cl- ion faces a negative barrier of 0.68 eV and is prone toward blockade and Na+ permeation is associated with a slightly negative barrier of 0.03 eV. From the change in the solvation shell, we get the following trend: Na/h-BN > Na/G > Cl/G > Cl/h-BN. We argue that the trend in the permeation barrier changes to Cl-h-BN > Na-h-BN > Na-G > Cl-G due to a combination of several interactions, including the distortion of the water network induced by the ions, the ion-water interaction, and the ion-nanopore interaction. Overall, the desalination performance of h-BN surpasses that of their graphene counterparts.
Identification and Analysis of the Key Factors Which Prevent or Contribute to the Development of Power Purchase Agreements on the Road to Climate Neutrality and Meeting the Related Sustainability Goals
Authors: Tantau Adrian , Niculescu Elena , Fratila Laurentiu , Stanciu Costel , Alpopi Cristina
Published: March 2024

The analysis of the key factors which prevent or contribute to the promotion and development of the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) in order to meet the sustainability goals represents an important issue which worth being investigated, especially in the situation in which entering in bilateral relations inside this contract has a powerful meaning in achieving new climate targets, developing and improving the use of green energy, and promoting a sustainable green economy. The main goal of this research is to identify and analyze the main factors which help or pre-vent the promotion and development of a PPA, in order to meet the sustainability goals by promoting a green economy. For this research survey based on comparative analysis, questionnaires and interviews with energy experts, Spearman’s correlation matrix and IBM SPSS Statistics for Window are also used.
The results suggest that although there are positive interest and an open attitude towards the PPA from both sides (sellers and buyers), but there is still place for improvement, the lack of knowledge or the insufficient measures taken so far being two of the reasons way until now in Romania we do not have a developed PPA market and the level of knowledge regarding this type of mechanism is quite low.
FMRP and its Multifunctionality: From Cytosol to Nucleolus and Back
Authors: Taha Mohamed S. , Ahmadian Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2024

Silencing of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene and consequently lack of synthesis of FMR protein (FMRP) are associated with fragile X syndrome, which is one of the most prevalent inherited intellectual disabilities. FMRP is a multifunctional protein involved in many cellular functions in nearly all subcellular compartments under normal conditions and under conditions of cellular stress in both neuronal and non-neuronal cell types. This is achieved through its trafficking signals, nuclear localization signal (NLS), nuclear export signal (NES), and nucleolar localization signal (NoLS), as well as its RNA and protein binding domains, and is modulated by various post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, and methylation. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the interaction networks of FMRP with a special focus on FMRP stress-related functions, including stress granule formation, mitochondrion and endoplasmic reticulum plasticity, ribosome biogenesis, cell cycle control, and DNA damage response.
Design and Evaluation of a Memory Recalling Virtual Reality Application for Elderly Users
Authors: Anastasiadou Zoe , Dimitriadou Eleni , Lanitis Andreas
Published: March 2024

Virtual Reality (VR) can be useful in efforts that aim to improve wellbeing of older members of the society. Within this context, the work presented in this paper aims to provide to elderly a user-friendly and enjoyable Virtual Reality (VR) application incorporating memory recalling and storytelling activities that can promote mental awareness, so that negative side effects related to brain inactivity are prevented. An important aspect of the proposed VR application is the presence of a virtual audience that listens to the stories presented by elderly users, and interacts with the user. In an effort to maximize the impact of the VR application, research was conducted to study whether the elderly are willing to use the VR application and whether they believe it can help to improve well-being and reduce the effects of loneliness and social isolation. The results show that elderly users are positive towards the use of such an application in everyday life, as a means of improving their overall well-being.
Application Of Machine Learning To Understand Pfas Occurrence, Distribution, Transport And Removal In Water
Authors: Ajao Adewale
Published: March 2024

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are arguably the most common water contaminants in the world today. While several research experiments have been done to understand and remove PFAS from the environment, there is still a lot of unknown. Little has been known about the use of Machine learning (ML) to understand PFAS. This work hence reviews some leading ML approaches and applications in PFAS studies in the distribution, transport, removal, and occurrence predictions of PFAS. Several evaluation matrices were examined and used to perform this function. There are still a lot of areas whereby ML can be used to improve our PFAS knowledge base, some of these were briefly stated in this review.
Comparison of Drone-Assisted Maize Seedling Detection Models Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Jia Zhijie , Zhang Xinglong , Yang Hongye , Lu Yuan , Liu Jiale , Yu Xun , Feng Dayun , Gao Kexing , Xue Jianfu , Ming Bo , Nie Chenwei , Li Shaokun
Published: March 2024

Effective agricultural management in maize production operations starts with the early quantification of seedlings. Accurately determining plant presence allows growers to optimize planting density, allocate resources, and detect potential growth issues early on. This study presents an in-depth analysis of multiple object detection models used by drones to count maize seedlings, while concurrently investigating the influence of planting density, flight altitude, and plant growth stage. The findings of this study demonstrate that one-stage models are able to more accurately detect maize seedlings than two-stage models. In particular, YOLOv8n exhibits outstanding performance, achieving an F1-score of over 0.92 under various density conditions and maintaining a stable performance, especially under densities below 105,000 plants/ha. Additionally, planting density and growth stage were observed to significantly affect detection accuracy, with performance declining as density and growth stage increased. Image resolution and detection were impacted by flight altitude, with lower flights producing higher-quality results. Ultimately, YOLOv8n displays optimal performance under various conditions, providing crucial data to support intelligent decision-making. This research offers valuable insights into the application of object detection technology and provides a basis for the future development of precision agriculture.
Adaptive Control of Quadrotors in Uncertain Environments
Authors: Leitao Daniel , Cunha Rita , Lemos Joao M
Published: March 2024

The problem addressed in this article consists of the motion control of a quadrotor, comprising model disturbances and uncertainties. In order to tackle model uncertainty, adaptive control based on reinforcement learning is used. The distinctive feature of this article, in comparison with other works on quadrotor control using reinforcement learning is the exploration of the underlying optimal control problem in which a quadratic cost and a linear dynamics allow an algorithm that runs in real time. Instead of identifying a plant model, adaptation is obtained by approximating the performance index given by the Q-function using directional forgetting recursive least squares that rely on a linear regressor build from quadratic functions of input/output data. The adaptive algorithm proposed is tested in simulation in a cascade control structure that drives a quadrotor. Simulations show the improvement in performance that results when the proposed algorithm is turned on.
Exploiting Properties of Student Networks to Enhance Learning in Distance Education
Authors: Tsoni Rozita , Paxinou Evgenia , Gkoulalas-Divanis Aris , Karapiperis Dimitrios , Kalles Dimitrios , Verykios Vassilios S. S.
Published: March 2024

Distance Learning has become the new standard, especially after the pandemic and due to the technological advances, that are incorporated into the teaching procedure. At the same time, the augmented use of the internet has blurred the borders between distance and conventional learning. Students interact mainly through LMSs, leaving their digital traces that can be leveraged to improve the educational process. This work aims to propose a model that can capture the students' behaviors based on the clickstream data associated with the discussion forum and additionally to suggest interpretable patterns that will support education administrators and tutors in the decision-making process. To achieve our goal, we use Social Network Analysis (SNA) as networks represent complex interactions in a meaningful and easily interpretable way. Moreover, simple or complex network metrics are becoming available to provide valuable insights into the students’ social interaction. This study concludes that by leveraging the imprint of these actions in an LMS and using metrics of SNA, differences can be spotted in the communicational patterns that go beyond simple participation recording. Although HITS and PageRank algorithms were created with completely different targeting, it is shown that they can also reveal methodological features in students’ communicational approach.
Phosphate Uptake and Its Relation with Arsenic Toxicity in Lactobacilli
Authors: Corrales Daniela , Alcántara Cristina , Clemente María Jesús , Vélez Dinoraz , Devesa Vicenta , Monedero Vicente , Zúñiga Manuel
Published: March 2024

Use of probiotic lactobacilli has been proposed as a strategy to mitigate damage associated to exposure to toxic metals. Their protective effect against cationic metal ions, such as those of mercury or lead, is believed to stem from their chelating and accumulating potential. However, their retention of anionic toxic metalloids, such as inorganic arsenic, is generally lower. Through the construction of mutants in phosphate transporter genes (pst) in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strains, coupled with arsenate [As(V)] uptake and toxicity assays, we determined that the incorporation of As(V), which structurally resembles phosphate, is likely facilitated by phosphate transporters. Surprisingly, inactivation in Lc. paracasei of PhoP, the tran-scriptional regulator of the two-component system PhoPR, a signal transducer involved in phosphate sensing, led to an increased resistance to arsenite [As(III)]. In comparison to the wild type, the phoP strain exhibited no differences in the ability to retain As(III), and there were no observed changes in the oxidation of As(III) to the less toxic As(V). These results reinforce the idea that specific transport, and not unspecific cell retention plays a role in As(V) biosorption by lactobacilli, while they reveal an unexpected phenotype for the lack of the pleiotropic regulator PhoP.
International Comparative Analysis of Advanced Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Demand Characteristics Using the Bass Diffusion Model
Authors: Kim Su-Beom , Song Soo Jin , Yoo Yeong Hyoen , Lim Dar Oh
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This paper proposed the direction of future supply and demand management policies through demand prediction and demand characteristics analysis of advanced diagnostic imaging equipment using new medical technology.Methods: This study used the Bass Diffusion Model to analyze demand characteristics for advanced diagnostic imaging equipment. Derived diffusion coefficients were applied for medium to long-term demand predictions (2021-2050). Parameter estimation employed non-linear regression analysis (SPSS 27.0). Demand characteristics were further analyzed using the ratio of the Bass model’s innovation to imitation coefficients for each country and device.Results: Comparing the imitation coefficients (q/p ratio) for computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) among South Korea, the United States, and Japan, South Korea has the highest q/p ratio for both CT and MRI. This implies that the influence of opinion leaders and group pressure is relatively more significant in South Korea, particularly in CT purchases. In the demand prediction results, South Korea’s q/p ratio for CT and MRI is notably larger, suggesting that institutional pressures and collective decision-making, rather than individual clinical decisions, play a significant role in the purchase of advanced diagnostic imaging Equipment. The q/p ratio for advanced diagnostic imaging Equipment in South Korea is higher than in other countries, reflecting a large power distance in the adoption of these technologies.Conclusions: This study utilizes the Bass Diffusion Model to predict the demand for advanced diagnostic imaging equipment in South Korea, Japan, and the United States. Findings highlight that imitation, not innovation, is the main driver of diffusion, with South Korea showing a faster adoption rate for CT and MRI. The study identifies factors influencing diffusion in South Korea, noting the impact of the quantity system on CT and the absence of influence on MRI. CT diffusion is positively linked to the quantity-based payment system, while MRI remains unaffected.