bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Blockchain-Based Fish Supply Chain Framework for Maintaining Fish Quality and Authenticity
Authors: Ismail Shereen , Nouman Muhammad , Reza Hassan , Vasefi Fartash , Zadeh Hossein Kashani
Published: March 2024

The fish supply chain (FSC) industry faces a significant challenge in terms of maintaining fish quality and authenticity throughout the chain. The main goal of modern FSC systems is tracking and tracing the fish product at each stage, from harvester to end customer, as well as assessing its quality and authenticity. Integrating FSC with new technologies, such as Blockchain (BC), Big Data, Artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT), enhances fish product traceability, authenticity, visibility, and security. We propose a BC-based FSC framework that follows a layered architecture consisting of a SC layer, an IoT layer, and a BC layer. We integrate a new AI-based hand-held device, a Quality, Adulteration & Traceability (QAT) device, that can identify fish species and assess fish quality. We leverage the key features of BC and smart contracts, deployed over the Ethereum platform for the proposed framework integrated with QAT technology. Extensive validation of smart contracts is conducted to prove its practical feasibility.
Synthesis, In silico studies, and biological evaluation of newer N, N'-Phthaloyl GABA Aldehyde/ Aniline analogs as Anti-Epileptic
Authors: KURMI RAJAN KUMAR , Srivastava Snigdha , Shina Reema Sinha
Published: March 2024

The main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain is 4-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Phthalimide acts as a sodium channel antagonist, one of the finest targets for treating epilepsy is the sodium channel and JNK kinase activity is inhibited to treat epilepsy. a novel compound with multiple targets of action for the treatment of epilepsy also anti-oxidant activity has been designed. The compounds are designed in two series aldehydes and aniline. Docking of all the designed compounds has been done with the suitable protein GABA-AT, sodium channel, JNK protein, and anti-oxidant from protein bank. QSAR was done for constructing many linear regression models. In combination with the developed Docking and QSAR outcomes, ADMET has been performed for the active compounds. The result shows that 11 of the compounds have excellent binding energy in docking with all the receptors and also have good QSAR results and follow the ADMET. The structural understanding of human GABA-AT inhibition was obtained from molecular dynamics simulation studies for compound no. 11 at 5 nanoseconds. Synthesis and pharmacological activity also suggest that the designed compound no.11 be considered the best Novel Compound.
Historiography and Toll of World War I and World War II Famines in Iran
Authors: MAJD MOHAMMAD GHOLI
Published: March 2024

Abstract. The remarks by the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution on the toll of the famines that afflicted occupied Iran in World War I and World War II indicate a desire to incorporate these calamities in Iran’s national narrative and collective memory. His criticism of famine historiography and stated toll numbers, and the unfolding catastrophic famine in Gaza, justify and necessitate a fresh look at each famine’s historiography and toll. This article re-estimates the toll of each famine by including many overlooked and neglected primary sources and in ways not previously done. It builds a trajectory of Iran’s demographic development from 1810 to 1944, and derives the toll of each famine. The World War II famine and typhus epidemics had claimed 5.5 million victims and Ayatollah Khamenei’s criticisms concerning its stated duration and toll valid. World War I famine was also more deadly, though the 1869-73 famine was not far behind. At least 15.5 million Iranians died in the two world wars, a fact nowhere reflected in the history of the conflicts. Iran’s 1944 population of 12 million was unchanged from that of 1850 and a century of population growth obliterated
Individual progression of S100 calcium-binding protein beta as a surrogate for epilepsy risk: rationale and design of a meta-analysis project
Authors: He Jianxun , Li Beilei , Miao Chuhan
Published: March 2024

Introduction: This study aims to elucidate the clinical diagnostic value of S100 Calcium Binding Protein beta (S100B) in epilepsy, a topic of ongoing debate among European and Asian epilepsy research centres.Methods and analysis: A structured long-term research plan was developed, comprising three phases. Phase one involves observational studies investigating the correlation between S100B levels in serum or cerebrospinal fluid and epilepsy. Phase two integrates observational and randomised controlled data to establish baseline S100B levels across diverse epilepsy demographics, underpinning the predictive value of S100B for epilepsy. Phase three focuses on randomised controlled trials to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of S100B as an epilepsy biomarker.Ethics and dissemination: All enrolled patients will provide written consent. The ethics committee of the Second People’s Hospital of Gansu Province, Affiliated Hospital of Northwest Minzu University, China, approved the study (GSSEY2022-KY009-01).Registration: The study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023425431).
All-Solid-State Post-Compression of Low Energy Pulses at High Repetition Rate
Authors: Marčiulionytė Vaida , Banys Jonas , Vengelis Julius , Tamošauskas Gintaras , Dubietis Audrius
Published: March 2024

We demonstrate a proof-of-principle of simple all-solid-state post-compression setup for low energy, high repetition rate laser pulses, where spectral broadening was performed using a combination of highly nonlinear bulk materials in a simple single pass geometry. 75 fs, 210 nJ pulses from an amplified 76 MHz, 15.7 W Yb:KGW oscillator after sequential spectral broadening in ZnS and YAG samples of 2 mm and 15 mm thickness, respectively, were compressed to 37 fs by means of Gires–Tournois interferometric mirrors. The post-compressed pulses with an average power of 11.47 W demonstrated reasonable spatial-spectral homogeneity of the beam with the spectral overlap parameter V>83% and good beam quality with Mx2=1.28 and My2=1.14.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Twelve Groups of Diseases Related- Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Roszkowska Paulina , Klimczak Emilia , Ostrycharz Ewa , Rączka Aleksandra , Wojciechowska-Koszko Iwona , Dybus Andrzej , Cheng Yeong-Hsiang , Yu Yu-Hsiang , Mazgaj Szymon , Hukowska-Szematowicz Beata
Published: March 2024

Keywords: gut microbiota; small intestinal bacteria overgrowth; SIBO; diet, dysbiosis; microbial ecology.
Development of Multi-part Field-Shapers for Magnetic-Pulse Welding Using Nanostructured Cu-Nb Composite
Authors: Zaytsev Evgeny , Krutikov Vasiliy , Spirin Alexey , Paranin Sergey
Published: March 2024

Magnetic pulse welding (MPW) employs high pulsed magnetic field to accelerate parts against each other thus forming an impact joining. Single-turn tool coils and field-shapers (FS) used in MPW operate under the most demanding conditions: a magnetic field of 40-50 T with a period of tens of microseconds. For conventional copper and bronze coils intense thermo-mechanical stresses lead to rapid degradation of the working bore. This work is aimed to improve the efficiency of field-shapers and focused on development of 2- and 4-slit FS with nanocomposite Cu 18Nb wire brazed as FS inner current-carrying layer. The measured ratio of magnetic field to discharge current was 56.3 and 50.6 T/MA for 2- and 4-slit FS respectively. FEM calculations of magnetic field generation showed its 6-9% and 3% variation for 2- and 4-slit FS respectively. The results of copper tube compression have shown an ovality of 27% and 7% for 2- and 4-slit FS respectively. The measured deviation of weld joining length was 11% and 1.4% in 2- and 4-slit FS respectively. Compared to the previous experiments on the whole steel inductor, the novel FS showed significantly better results in terms of efficiency and homogeneity of the magnetic field.
Panmacular Micropulse Laser Treatment of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy: Two-Year Follow-Up of Morphological and Functional Parameters
Authors: Latalska Małgorzata , Dresler Sławomir , Rejdak Robert
Published: March 2024

Aim: To evaluate the panmacular subthreshold micropulse laser treatment results among patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and their correlation with functional and morphological parameters. Material and methods: The examined group included 10 non-treated and 41 treated patients with acute, recurrent, and chronic CSC (13 F, 38 M, mean age 44.11±6.5) and 14 healthy controls (6 F, 8 M, mean age 45±9.3). The BCVA examination, ophthalmoscopy, microp-erimetry, angio-OCT and OCT were performed. The medical history regarding chronic general disorders and known risk factors were recorded. Results: Complete resorption of SRF was obtained in 100% aCSC, 86.66% cCSC, and 63.63% r CSC. BCVA and RetSens significantly improved most of the patients treated in aCSC. The lowest BCVA and RetSens, but the largest pachyvessel and disease duration, were found in rCSC. A strong negative correlation between final BCVA and disease duration was found. No patient demonstrated laser lesions following treatment. Conclusions: The panmacular MPLT therapy leads to long-term enhancement of functional and morphological parameters in all CSC patients. The acute CSC patients showed the most significant improvement. The procedure is safe and could be considered a preferred treatment option for all active CSC cases. Timely treatment is crucial for beneficial outcomes.
Typology of Business Incubators in Spain according to the Stages of Startups Incubation
Authors: Asensio-Ciria Ana , De-Pablos-Heredero Carmen , Blanco Jiménez Francisco José , García Martínez Antón
Published: March 2024

The aim of this work was to classify the business incubators in Spain according to the four phases of startups incubation. Taking into account that the graduation rate implies greater survival and business success of the incubated companies, they have been identified at each stage of the incubation (spread of entrepreneurship, pre-incubation, advanced incubation, and graduation). The activities that present higher impacts on the success of the incubated companies and the activities carried out by the incubator that have a greater relevance on the graduation of the companies have concretely been considered. Principal component (PC) cluster analysis have been applied. All the incubation variables were used simultaneously, reducing their number, and grouping them into factors, finally the cases were grouped according to these latent variables. Principal components analysis reduced dimensionality to 8 factors with a 74 % of explained variance. Factor 1 was positively related to pre-incubation variables, factor 2 was linked to training and collaboration variables within the entrepreneurship diffusion phase. Factor 3 called activity monitoring and control and was related to phase 3 or basic incubation variables. Clusters analysis facilitates the grouping of incubators into three clusters: Group 1 (16 % of the total), incubators with strong deficits in incubation phases 1, 2 and 3. They are small Business Incubators, often located in rural areas or cities and low graduation rate. Group 2 (30 %), business incubators with very high graduation rate, and strongly positive values in factor 1 and 2. Factor 3 although positive is susceptible to improvement. They are the largest incubators and usually located in industrial and technological parks. Group 3 (54 %) is the majority, with values close to cluster 2 and 3.
A Systematic Review of the Application of GOCI to Water Quality Monitoring of Inland and Coastal Waters
Authors: Shao Shidi , Wang Yu , Liu Ge , Song Kaishan
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, as eutrophication in inland and coastal waters (ICWs) has increased due to anthropogenic activities and global warming, so has the need for timely monitoring. Compared with traditional sampling and laboratory analysis methods, satellite remote sensing technology can provide macro-scale, low-cost, and near real-time water quality monitoring services. The Geostationary Ocean Color Imager (GOCI), integrated onboard the Communication Ocean and Meteorological Satellite (COMS) from the Republic of Korea, was the first geostationary ocean color observation satellite and was operational from April 1, 2011 to March 31, 2021. Over ten years, GOCI has observed oceans, coastal waters, and inland waters within its 2,500 km×2,500 km target area centered on the Korean Peninsula. The most attractive feature of GOCI, compared with other commonly used watercolor sensors, was its high temporal resolution (1h, eight times daily from 0 UTC to 7 UTC), providing the opportunity to monitor the quality of ICWs, where optical properties can change rapidly throughout the day. This systematic review aims to comprehensively review GOCI features and applications in ICWs, analyzing progress in atmospheric correction algorithms and water quality monitoring. Analyzing 123 articles from the Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) through a bibliometric quantitative approach, we examined GOCI’s strength and performance with different processing methods. These articles reveal that GOCI played an essential role in monitoring the ecological health of ICWs in its observation area in East Asia. GOCI has led the way to a new era of geostationary ocean satellites, providing new technical means for monitoring water quality in oceans, coastal zones, and inland lakes. We also discuss the challenges encountered by geostationary satellites in monitoring water quality and provide suggestions for improvements.
Design of a Reverse Processing Network for Sub-Optimal Fruit in a Retail Store Using an Milp Model
Authors: Chowdhury Mohammed Arfat Raihan
Published: March 2024

Modernizing the retail sector is essential to societal progress toward creating a smart city. The retail sector is crucial to the development of a smart city because of its adaptability and capacity for innovation. However, due to their perishability, supermarkets throw away a lot of fruits and vegetables. This article discusses the design of a sub-optimal process for processing sorted fruits using a reverse logistics approach, demonstrating how productivity can be increased despite constraints on processing capacity. This paper presents the results of a case study conducted in a Qatari supermarket that offers a variety of regular fruit processing techniques. In order to maximize output and cut down on waste, this project aimed to develop a reverse logistics system for imperfect fruit.
High Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) in Acute Hypoxic Respiratory Failure: Management of Multi-Organ Failure
Authors: Das Sudipa
Published: March 2024

High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy has emerged as a non-invasive respiratory support method with potential benefits in various conditions, including acute hypoxic respiratory failure (AHRF). This essay provides an overview of HFNC therapy, focusing on its indications based on institutional protocols, a critical appraisal of the FLORALI study and European Respiratory Society (ERS) guidelines regarding its use in AHRF, and its impact on clinical practice. The FLORALI study, a multicentre randomized controlled trial, and the ERS guidelines offer insights into the efficacy and safety of HFNC compared to conventional oxygen therapy (COT) and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). The synthesis of this information informs clinical decision-making and highlights considerations for managing patients with AHRF, including the influence of other organ failures on treatment strategies.
Market Value of Nanotechnology-Based Products in Agriculture: Current Status and Future Sustainability Goals in the Era of Climate Change
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Figueiredo Ronnie , Avagyan Artur A. , Movsesyan Hasmik S. , Rajput Vishnu D. , Minkina Tatiana M. , Singh Rupesh Kumar , Sousa João Ricardo , Ghazaryan Karen
Published: March 2024

Nanotechnology has become a popular topic in agricultural and animal research, generating sig-nificant global interest. Nanoparticles (NPs)-enabled agriculture and animal husbandry (AHs) products have three main principles: crop production, protection, and nutrient enrichment. Re-search on this topic has grown exponentially in recent years, with an increasing number of peer-reviewed literature and patents on NPs-enabled agriculture and AH products. This study examines and collects data on the various applications of NPs-enabled agricultural products for crop production, protection, and livestock improvement from the core nanotechnological database. The search returned several types of NPs and products used in agriculture and AH, countries that utilize these products at a commercial level, and analysis of these data by phyton, R-statistical software. Our findings show remarkable growth of nanotechnology in agriculture, AH, and re-search fields for future sustainability goals in the era of climate change
Influence of Ni Doping on Oxygen Vacancy-Induced Changes in Structural and Chemical Properties of CeO2 Nanorods
Authors: Zhu Yuanzheng , Wang Weixia , Chen Gejunxiang , Li Huyi , Zhang Yuedie , Liu Chang , Wang Hao , Cheng Ping , Chen Chunguang , Seong Gimyeong
Published: March 2024

In recent years, cerium dioxide (CeO2) has attracted considerable attention owing to its remarkable performance in various applications, including photocatalysis, fuel cells, and catalysis. This study explores the effect of nickel (Ni) doping on the structural, thermal, and chemical properties of CeO2 nanorods, particularly focusing on oxygen vacancy-related phenomena. Utilizing X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), alterations in crystal structure and peak shifts were observed, indicating successful Ni doping and the formation of Ni2O3 at higher doping levels, likely due to non-equilibrium reactions. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed changes in oxygen release mechanisms, with increasing Ni doping resulting in the release of lattice oxygen at lower temperatures. Raman spectroscopy corroborated these findings by identifying characteristic peaks associated with oxygen vacancies, facilitating the assessment of Ni doping levels. Overall, this study underscores the substantial impact of Ni doping on CeO2 nanorods, shedding light on tailored catalytic applications through modulation of oxygen vacancies while preserving the nanorod morphology.
Retrospective Correlation of the Circulation Time of Test Bolus Injections in MR Angiography and Cardiac Function
Authors: Möller David Frederik , Mohorko Borut , Aschauer Theresia Elisabeth , Schwager Tobias , Aschauer Manuela Adelinde
Published: March 2024

This retrospective study examines 248 test-bolus examinations preceding contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) to extract clinically relevant data for critical limb ischemia (CLI) management. Methods involved a retrospective review of test-bolus exams, analysing 60 graphs for time-to-peak (TTP), full-width half-maximum (FWHM) time, and time to continual rise in signal intensity. These values were correlated with heart function parameters (ejection fraction, ASA-Classification, Lee-Index, and MET-Score). Results indicate a mean TTP of 31.2 ± 7.3s, showing a correlation between ejection fraction and ASA classification. Patients with atrial fibrillation exhibited prolonged TTP compared to those without. Despite population heterogeneity, findings facilitate risk stratification for limb-saving interventions in CLI. TTP emerges as a potential clinical cardiovascular parameter and a risk factor for vascular interventions. Given the variation in injection protocols across centres, this study underscores the importance of precise bolus arrival time documentation for future multicentre studies.
Transforming African Healthcare with AI: Paving the Way for Improved Health Outcomes
Authors: ANDIGEMA ANGYIBA , Tania Cyrielle NGNOTOUOM NGNOKAM , Lethicia Danaëlle MAFO KAMGA , Ekwelle EWANE
Published: March 2024

The healthcare situation in Africa is characterized by limited resources and a high burden of disease, presenting significant challenges to the healthcare systems in the region. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in African healthcare holds immense potential for addressing these challenges and improving health outcomes. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current healthcare landscape in Africa and the urgent need for AI-driven solutions.In addition to discussing the potential applications of AI in African healthcare, such as disease diagnosis, treatment planning, and medical imaging analysis, this manuscript seeks to shed light on the specific challenges hindering the implementation of AI in the region. By providing detailed examples and case studies, we aim to offer insights into the obstacles that need to be overcome and potential solutions that can be pursued.By leveraging AI technologies, Africa has the opportunity to revolutionize its health systems, bridging the gap in access to quality healthcare across the continent. The objective of this review article is to not only highlight the potential benefits that AI can bring to African healthcare but also to emphasize the urgent need for action and collaboration in implementing and scaling up AI innovations in the region. By doing so, African countries can pave the way for improved health outcomes and ensure that their populations receive the healthcare services they deserve.
A Rare Onset of T Lymphoid Blast Crisis in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia with Two Distinct Blast Populations
Authors: Mongia Alessandra , Romano Francesca , Ciullini Mannurita Sara , Peruzzi Benedetta , Bencini Sara , Parrini Daniela , Fasano Laura , Fanelli Alessandra
Published: March 2024

In chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a clonal proliferative disorder of granulocytic lineage, the 90%‐95% of cases are characterized by t(9;22) (q34.1;q11.2) translocation, leading to the Philadelphia chromosome (1). Rarely, CML patients directly present a blast crisis, mostly of myeloid origin (2, 3). Herein, we describe one rare CML case, showing an unusual early T lymphoid blastic crisis.
Meteoritic Matter and Spherules in a Presumed Impact Crater at Emmerting, Germany
Authors: Procházka Václav , Kalenda Pavel , Martinec Petr , Mizera Jiří , Thinová Lenka , Trojek Tomáš , Kletetschka Günther , Štorc Richard , Adámek Jan , Švanda Pavel
Published: March 2024

Bulk composition, mineralogy and microchemistry of various fractions of the filling of the Crater No. 4 at Emmerting were investigated. Here we present mainly the fine fractions, which, in contrast to pebbles larger than ca. 4 cm, are relatively poor in material affected by melting. A 0.1 mm long meteorite fragment without ablation features was found, and remelted fragments of the same body have been identified. The projectile was dominated by enstatite, also containing forsterite, basic plagioclase, Ni-rich pyrrhotite and troilite, kamacite, silica, and probably merrillite. The molten fragments contain porous Mg-rich glass (indicating temperature > 1500 °C), minor Fe oxides, and occasionally uncommon Ni-rich minerals. The bulk composition and electron microprobe show that the amount of meteoritic material is low (<< 1 %), and it is not unequivocally manifested even in platinum-group elements abundances and osmium isotope ratios (the latter, however, were only measured in two samples). This can be explained by dilution of the filling by particles brought after the crater formation, and by probably achondritic composition of the projectile. Relatively large hollow spheroid Fe oxide particles were observed in thin sections from the magnetic fraction. A Mn oxide hollow spherule has also been found. In magnetically separated filling from the nearby Crater No. 5, bulk chemical composition points to contamination with several metals and metalloids probably due to influence of recent alluvial sediments. Therefore, the extent of meteoritic contamination in this crater may be even smaller.
Sustainable Development in Africa: Analyzing the Interplay of Environmental Taxes, Productive Capacities, and Urban Growth
Authors: Dahmani Mounir , Ben Youssef Adel
Published: March 2024

This study examines the complex relation among environmental taxes, productive capacities, urbanization, and their collective effects on environmental quality in Africa, drawing on two decades of data from twenty African countries. It situates the study within the broader discourse on sustainable development and economic growth, emphasizing the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) framework to examine the relationship between economic development, characterized by urban expansion and increased productive capacities, and the adoption of environmental taxes amidst the continent’s diverse economic and environmental environments. Using advanced econometric techniques, including the Cross-Section Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) model and the Dynamic Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (DCCEMG) estimator, the study addresses data challenges such as cross-sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity. The results provide important insights into the dynamics of environmental quality in relation to economic and urban growth and the role of environmental taxation. The study proposes tailored policy strategies aimed at strengthening sustainable development initiatives in line with international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals. These strategies advocate for a nuanced application of environmental taxes and the promotion of productive capacities to enhance environmental sustainability across the African continent.
The Impact of Combinated Process of Electrolysis and Activated Sludge Process on Municipal Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Hutňan Miroslav , Jankovičová Barbora , Zakhar Ronald , Šoltýsová Nikola
Published: March 2024

Electrochemical methods are used for the treatment of both municipal and industrial wastewater, either independently or in conjunction with biological methods. This conjunction is used for pretreatment or posttreatment of biologically treated wastewater. In our work, we focused on the combination of these processes, where pre-electrolysis was used to produce dissolved iron before the activation process. Electrolysis was also directly introduced into the activation using either iron or carbon electrodes. The surface of one iron electrode was 32.2 cm2, the applied voltage was 21 V, and the supplied current was 270 mA. The surface of one carbon electrode was 7.54 cm2, the supplied current was 82.5 mA, and the applied voltage was 21 V. From laboratory research on the treatment of synthetic municipal wastewater using a combination of electrolysis and activation processes, it resulted that the use of iron electrodes increased the efficiency of phosphorus removal compared to its precipitation with iron salts. The electrolysis had a positive effect on the sedimentation properties of sludge and the destruction of filamentous microorganisms. Electrolysis negatively affected the respiration rates of activated sludge and the efficiency of denitrification. However, it did not have a negative impact on the nitrification activity of the sludge.
Genomic Insight into the COVID-19 Severity in MAFLD Patients: A Single-Center Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Buchynskyi Mykhailo , Oksenych Valentyn , Kamyshna Iryna , Budarna Olena , Kamyshnyi Oleksandr
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes asso-ciated with the interferon pathway (IFNAR2 rs2236757), antiviral response (OAS1 rs10774671, OAS3 rs10735079), and viral entry (ACE2 rs2074192) on COVID-19 severity and their association with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (MAFLD). We did not observe a significant association between the investigated SNPs and COVID-19 severity. While the IFNAR2 rs2236757 A allele correlated with higher creatinine levels upon admission and the G allele with lower band neu-trophils upon discharge, these findings require further investigation. The distribution of OAS gene polymorphisms (rs10774671, rs10735079 did not differ between MAFLD and non-MAFLD patients. Our study population's distribution of ACE2 rs2074192 genotypes and alleles differed from the European reference population. Overall, our findings suggest that these specific SNPs may not be major contributors to COVID-19 severity in our patient population, highlighting the potential role of other genetic factors and environmental influences.
Evidence for Hemispheric-Scale Bicentennial Periodicity in Northern Hemisphere Temperature
Authors: Ogurtsov Maxim
Published: March 2024

Eight reconstructions of temperature in the Northern Hemisphere covering 1192-2015 years were analyzed using both Fourier, wavelet and principal component approaches. A hemispheric-scale cyclicity with a period of 170-250 years was found present in Northern Hemisphere temperature for more than the last millennium. It is shown that this variation may have a certain contribution to warming in the first half of the 20th century. However, the last 4-5 decades are most likely a period of decline of this cycle. Possible origins of the revealed bicentennial periodicity are discussed.
Anisotropic Generalization of the ΛCDM Universe Modelwith Application to the Hubble Tension
Authors: Grøn Øyvind G.
Published: March 2024

I deduce an exact and analytic Bianchi type I solution of Einstein’s field equations which generalizes the isotropic ΛCDM universe model to a corresponding model with anisotropic expansion. The main point of the article is to present the anisotropic generalization of the ΛCDM universe model in a way suitable for investigating how anisotropic expansion modifies observable properties of the ΛCDM universe model. Although such generalizations of the isotropic ΛCDM universe model have been considered earlier, they have never been presented in this form before. Several physical properties of the model are pointed out and compared with properties of special cases such as the isotropic ΛCDM universe model. The solution is then used to investigate the Hubble tension. It has recently been suggested that that the cosmic large scale anisotropy may solve the Hubble tension. I consider those earlier suggestions and find that the formulae of these papers lead to the result that the anisotropy of the cosmic expansion is too small to solve the Hubble tension. Then I investigate the problem in a new way, using the exact solution of the field equations. This gives the result that the cosmic expansion anisotropy is still too small to solve the Hubble tension in the general Bianchi type I universe with dust and LIVE (Lorentz Invariant Vacuum Energy with a constant energy density which is represented by the cosmological constant) and anisotropic expansion in all three directions – even if one neglects the constraints coming from the requirement that the anisotropy should be sufficiently small, so that it does not have any significant effect upon the results coming from the calculations of the comic nucleosynthesis during the first ten minutes of the universe. If this constraint is taken into account, the cosmic expansion anisotropy is much too small to solve the Hubble tension.
Coniocybe Ach. Revisited
Authors: Temu Stela Gilbert , Tibell Sanja , Tibuhwa Donatha Damian , Tibell Leif
Published: March 2024

Calicioids form a research field that has encompassed ascomycetous fungi with stalked ascomata similar to those of the lichen genus Calicium. Early generic circumscriptions in calicioid lichens and fungi were mainly based on morphological and secondary chemistry information. After the introduction of molecular data, taxonomy in the group has been reconsidered. Here, based on a broad geographical sampling, Coniocybe Ach. was revised using molecular and morphological features. Three loci (ITS, LSU and rpb1) were compared to infer its phylogenetic position, and a total of 52 new sequences (14 ITS, 24 LSU and 14 rpb1) were produced. Coniocybe was revised and emended to include, apart for its type C. furfuracea, also C. brachypoda and C. confusa. In addition, a new species Coniocybe eufuracea, was described, and a key to the species of Coniocybe provided.
Exploring Predictive Validity of Multifactorial Injury Risk Models and Associated Clinical Measures in the U.S. Population
Authors: Eckart Adam , Ghimire Pragya Sharma , Stavitz James
Published: March 2024

Background Popular movement-based injury risk screens have been shown to lack predictive precision, leading to interest in multifactorial models. Furthermore, there is a lack of research regarding injury risk assessment for those currently or planning to be recreationally active. This study aims to provide injury risk insights by analyzing multifactorial injury risk models and as-sociated clinical measures in the U.S. population. Methods Data related to injury, inflammatory markers, physical functioning, body composition, physical activity, and other variables from 21,033 respondents were extracted from NHANES. Odds ratios for self-reported injury were calculated for single predictors and risk models. Case-control and principal component analyses (PCA) were conducted to elucidate confounders and identify risk factor clusters, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to test the precision of a risk factor cluster to identify pain points and functional difficulties. Results Sociodemographic, individual, and lifestyle factors were strongly associated with higher odds of injury. Increases in fibrinogen and C-reactive protein were significantly associated with all risk groups. Membership to the high-risk group (age over 40, obesity, no muscle-strengthening activities, sedentary lifestyle, and low back pain) predicted at least one functional difficulty with 67.4% sensitivity and 87.2% specificity. In the injury group, bone turnover markers were higher, yet confounded by age and there was a significantly higher prevalence of self-reported osteoporosis compared to the control. In males, low testosterone was associated with injury, and higher estradiol was associated with pain and functional difficulties. In females, higher levels of follicle-stimulating hormone were associated with functional difficulties. PCA revealed four high-risk profiles, with markers and activities showing distinct loadings. Conclusion A comprehensive approach to injury risk assessment should consider the nexus of aging, lifestyle, and chronic disease to enhance tailored injury prevention strategies, fostering safe and effective physical activity participation and reducing the burden of musculoskeletal disorders.
Multi-locational Evaluation of Forage-suited Selected Sudan Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L. R.Br.) Accessions Identified High-Yielding and Stable Genotypes in Irrigated, Arid Environments
Authors: Babiker Sara A. E. , Khair Mohammed A. M. , Ali Abdelraheem A. , Abdallah Mohamoud A. M. , Hagelhassan Asim M. E. , Mohamed Eltahir I. , Kamal Nasrein M. , Tsujimoto Hisashi , Tahir Izzat S. A.
Published: March 2024

: Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L) R. Br) is a subtropical grain and forage crop. It is privileged with several desirable forage attributes. Nevertheless, research on pearl millet is limited especially as a forage crop in the developing countries. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to investigate the field performance and stability of pearl millet genotypes for forage yield across seven environments. The study was conducted in seven environments (combination of locations and seasons) during 2016/2017-2018/2019 seasons. Twenty-five pearl millet genotypes, selected based on forage yield from a core collection of 200 accessions, were arranged in alpha lattice design with three replications. The parameters measured were fresh forage yield, days to flowering, plant height, number of culms m-2, leaf to stem ratio, and stem girth. The combined analysis revealed that environments, genotypes and their interaction had significant effects on all traits studied except the genotypic effect on stem girth. Across the seven environments, four genotypes (G14, G01, G12, and G22) out-yielded the check genotype in fresh matter yield by 20.7, 16.5, 11.0 and 9.8%, respectively. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis showed that the genotype, environment and their interaction were highly significant (P≤0.001) for fresh matter yield. The results of AMMI Stability Values (ASV) and the genotype selection index (GSI) combined with the AMMI estimate-based selection showed that genotypes G14, G22 and G01 were the most stable and adapted genotypes and were superior to the check genotype. These results indicate that forage pearl millet varieties could be developed directly through evaluation of the wealth available collections or indirectly through hybridization in crop breeding programs.
Vaccine Literacy and Hesitancy among Parents and Legal Guardians of Elementary School-Aged Children in the Midwest
Authors: Cicchiello Margaret , Lichtenstern Charles Robert , Lamichhane-Khadka Reena
Published: March 2024

Parental refusal of childhood vaccines is a growing public health concern. Numerous reasons exist for this refusal, including religious, personal, and philosophical beliefs, and safety concerns. However, parental refusal of childhood vaccines is not simply an individualized problem for the family; this impacts herd immunity and affects the entire community. To improve vaccination rates among the pediatric population, understanding the thought process and decision-making behind parental opposition and refusal of vaccinations is essential. Using a survey developed to assess attitudes towards recommended childhood vaccines and the COVID-19 vaccine, this study examined the correlation between vaccine literacy and hesitancy among parents and legal guardians of elementary school-aged children in the Midwest. Responses were analyzed using Chi-squared tests on “R” software. Significant negative correlations were found between COVID-19 hesitancy and vaccine literacy, and resistance towards all vaccines and vaccine literacy. No significant negative correlations were found between hesitancy towards all vaccines and vaccine literacy, or hesitancy and literacy among different income and education brackets. Our results suggest that vaccine education may lessen vaccine hesitancy among parents and may be an essential factor in improving vaccination rates among the pediatric population.
PatchFusion: Patch-based Nonrigid Tracking and Reconstruction of Deformable Objects using a Single RGB-D Sensor
Authors: Zhao Mingyuan , Yu Xuexin , Xu Long
Published: March 2024

This paper introduces PatchFusion, an innovative approach for nonrigid tracking and reconstruction of deformable objects using a single RGB-D sensor. Existing methods face challenges in accurately capturing the rapid deformations of soft and flexible objects, thereby limiting their utility in diverse scenarios. Our approach overcomes this challenge by employing a dynamic patch-based framework that adapts to rapid inter-frame motions. Firstly, patch-wise rigid transformation fields for non-overlapping patches are solved via Iterative Closest Point (ICP) by incorporating geometric features as additional similarity constraints, thereby enhancing robustness and accuracy. Secondly, deformation optimization based on a nonrigid solver is applied to refine the coarse transformation fields. In order to enable simultaneous tracking and reconstruction of deformable objects, the patch-based rigid solver is designed to run in parallel with the nonrigid solver, serving as a plug-and-play module requiring minimal modifications for integration while enabling real-time performance. Following a comprehensive evaluation, PatchFusion showcases superior performance in effectively dealing with rapid inter-frame deformations when compared to existing techniques, rendering it a promising solution with broad applicability across domains such as robotics, computer vision, and human-computer interaction.
Optimising Plate Thickness in Interlocking Inter-Module Connections for Modular Steel Buildings: A Finite Element and Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Elsayed Khaled , Mutalib Azrul A. , Elsayed Mohamed , Azmi Mohd Reza
Published: March 2024

Modular steel buildings (MSBs) interlocking inter-module connections (IMCs) have piqued researchers’ interest. However, the existing literature has not yet studied the optimisation of its plate thicknesses. This paper, therefore, focuses on optimising interlocking (IMCs) plate thickness in (MSBs), leveraging previous experimental and numerical simulation methodologies. Various numerical models for four MSBs interlocking (IMCs) with plate thicknesses (4 mm, 6 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm) were developed under compression loading conditions. The study’s novelty lay in its comprehensive parametric analysis, which evaluated the slip phenomenon in (MSBs) connections and introduced a slip prediction model validated against empirical data. Further innovative machine learning approach was utilised to predict slip values based on applied force through a random forest regression model trained using the 'Treebagger' function. Sensitivity analysis and comparisons with alternative methods were utilised to underscore the reliability and applicability of the findings. The results showed that 11.03 mm was the optimal plate thickness for interlocking (IMCs) in modular steel buildings, with up to 8.08% reduced material costs. Increasing plate thickness boosts its deformation resistance by up to 50.75%. ‘TreeBagger’ random forest for anomaly detection and machine learning improves slip prediction up to 7% at higher force levels.
Hybridized Encoder Decoder based LSTM and GRU Architectures for Stocks and Cryptocurrency Prediction
Authors: Dip Das Joy , Thulasiram Ruppa K. , Thavaneswaran Aerambamoorthy
Published: March 2024

This work addresses the intricate task of predicting the prices of diverse financial assets, including stocks, indices, and cryptocurrencies, each exhibiting distinct characteristics and behaviors under varied market conditions. To tackle the challenge effectively, a novel hybridized architecture, AE-GRU, integrating the encoder-decoder principle with GRU is designed. The experimentation involves multiple activation functions and hyperparameter tuning. With extensive experimentation and enhancements applied to AE-LSTM, the proposed AE-GRU architecture still demonstrates significant superiority in forecasting the annual prices of volatile financial assets from multiple sectors mentioned above. Thus, the novel AE-GRU architecture emerges as a superior choice for price prediction across diverse sectors and fluctuating market scenarios by extracting important non-linear features of financial data and retaining the long-term context from past observations.
Feasibility of Predicting Surgical Duration in Endometriosis Using Numerical Multi-Scoring System of Endometriosis (NMS-E)
Authors: Ichikawa Masao , Shiraishi Tatsunori , Okuda Naofumi , Matsuda Shigeru , Nakao Kimihiko , Kaseki Hanako , Ichikawa Go , Akira Shigeo , Toyoshima Masafumi , Kuwabara Yoshimitu , Suzuki Shunji
Published: March 2024

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the NMS-E represents a valuable preoperative diagnostic tool for endometriosis, effectively correlating with the disease's severity and surgical outcomes. Incorporating the NMS-E into clinical practice could significantly enhance the management of endometriosis by addressing current diagnostic limitations and guiding surgical planning.
Unraveling Verapamil's Multidimensional Role in Diabetes Therapy: From β-Cell Regeneration to Cholecystokinin Induction
Authors: Arefanian Hossein , Al Madhoun Ashraf , Al-Rashed Fatema , Alzaid Fawaz , Bahman Fatemah , Nizam Rasheeba , Alhusayan Mohammed , John Sumi Elsa , Jacob Sindhu , Williams Michayla R , Abu Khalaf Nermeen , Shenouda Steve , Joseph Shibu , AlSaeed Halemah , Kochumon Shihab , Mohammad Anwar , Koti Lubaina , Sindhu Sardar , Abu-Farha Mohamed , Abubaker Jehad , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse , Ahmad Rasheed , Al-Mulla Fahd
Published: March 2024

This study unveils verapamil's compelling cytoprotective and proliferative effects on pancreatic β-cells amidst diabetic stressors, spotlighting its unforeseen role in augmenting cholecystokinin (CCK) expression. Through rigorous investigations employing MIN6 β-cells and zebrafish models under type 1 and type 2 diabetic conditions, we demonstrate verapamil's capacity to significantly boost β-cell proliferation, enhance glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and fortify cellular resil-ience. A pivotal revelation of our research is verapamil's induction of CCK, a peptide hormone known for its role in nutrient digestion and insulin secretion, which signifies a novel pathway through which verapamil exerts its therapeutic effects. Furthermore, our mechanistic insights reveal that verapamil orchestrates a broad spectrum of gene and protein expressions pivotal for β-cell survival and adaptation to immune-metabolic challenges. In vivo validation in a zebrafish larvae model confirms verapamil's efficacy in fostering β-cell recovery post-metronidazole inflic-tion. Collectively, our findings advocate for verapamil's reevaluation as a multifaceted agent in diabetes therapy, highlighting its novel function in CCK upregulation alongside enhancing β-cell proliferation, glucose sensing, and oxidative respiration. This research enriches the therapeutic landscape, proposing verapamil not only as a cytoprotector but also as a promoter of β-cell re-generation, thereby offering fresh avenues for diabetes management strategies aimed at pre-serving and augmenting β-cell functionality.
Monitoring Kingfisher Breeding Phases by Using Temperature Data Loggers: Benefits and Limitations
Authors: Hadravová Alena , Peške Lubomír , Čech Martin
Published: March 2024

In recent years, thanks to continuous technological development, temperature data loggers have been used to collect data from the breeding progress of birds, which can be used, e.g. to obtain information on the length of incubation breaks, to detect the start of incubation or to record unsuccessful breeding. Temperature data loggers have been used in various types of bird nests, but not in a „closed“ nests such as a burrow or cavity. The study presents the results of using a temperature data loggers in natural nest holes of the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis). Their nests, which lack substantial insulating structures, are primarily influenced by the relatively stable soil temperature. The temperature of the space inside a nest chamber was measured on a continuous basis with an interval of 1 minute between measurements. The measurement was carried out from egg laying/incubation to a successful leave of the nest chamber/death of chicks (5 nests on 3 different streams in 3 breeding seasons). The temperature curves showed the laying of the eggs, the start of incubation, the successful flight out of the nest chamber or the death of the chicks in the nest chamber. It was not always possible to determine exactly when the chicks hatched from the temperature data.