bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review on Density Based Clustering Algorithms for Big Data
Authors:   Department of Computer Science, Research and Development Centre, Bharathiyar University, Coimbatore, India, Lakshmi T.Miranda
Published: February 2023

Big data is termed as huge volume of both structured and unstructured dataset. When dealing with these huge dataset several challenges are encountered by the users such as analysis, capture, storage, search, transfer, sharing, and visualization. To handle these complex data sets numerous technologies have been developed such as data mining, web mining, machine learning and optimization methods. From the above technologies data mining technology is considered in this paper. Data mining technology contains various techniques such as classification, prediction and clustering etc., This paper reviews the basic concepts and clustering approaches used for big data and also a comparison study is carried out in DBSCAN, DENCLUE, and OPTICS algorithms. Each of these methods has its own pros and cons. This paper reveals that DBSCAN is efficient than the other algorithms because of its simplicity.
APRM to Isolate Behavior (Frequent or Infrequent) by using Cross-Organizational Process Mining
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Computer Science, Muthurangam Government Arts College, Vellore, TamilNadu, India., Ms Pavithra. J
Published: February 2023

Process mining is a generally youthful and creating research zone with the primary thought of finding, checking and enhancing forms by removing data from occasion logs. Going out on a limb viewpoint on the business procedure administration (BPM) lifecycle has in this manner been perceived as a fundamental research stream. Notwithstanding significant information on hazard mindful BPM with an attention on process configuration, existing methodologies for real time chance observing regard occurrences as confined when identifying dangers. To address this hole, we propose an approach for Anomaly Predictive - Risk Monitoring (APRM). This approach naturally spreads chance data, which has been identified by means of hazard sensors, crosswise over comparable running occasions of a similar procedure progressively. We show APRMs capacity of prescient hazard checking by applying it with regards to a certifiable situation. With the expansion of distributed computing and shared foundations, occasion logs of various associations are accessible for examination where cross-hierarchical process mining remains with the open door for associations gaining from each other. Created proposal comes about demonstrate that the utilization of this approach can help clients to concentrate on the parts of process models with potential execution change, which are hard to spot physically and outwardly.
Simulated Local EPR Correlation: CHSH = 3
Authors: Sanctuary Bryan
Published: February 2023

A statistical simulation is presented which reproduces the correlation obtained from EPR coincidence experiments without non-local connectivity. Defining spin under the quaternion group reveals hyper-helicity, a hitherto missed attribute of spin. Including this in the treatment, reveals two complementary properties: spin polarization and spin coherence. The former has a CHSH value of 2, and spin coherence has a CHSH = 1 giving CHSH = 3 for an EPR pair. The simulation here gives 2.995. We suggest that Nature has CHSH=3 being considerable more than predicted from quantum mechanics of $2\sqrt{2}$. There are no Local Hidden Variables. We suggest that quaternion spin is more fundamental than Dirac spin. A computer program which performs the simulation without non-local connectivity is described.
Structural Strategies of Supramolecular Hydrogels and Their Applications
Authors: Sánchez-Fernández José Antonio
Published: February 2023

Supramolecular structures are of great interest due to their applicability in various scientific and industrial fields. These fields of scientific action include promising applications i biomedical areas, in sensing, and in conductive and electrical phases. The sensible definition of supramolecular molecules is being set by investigators, who, because of the different sensitivities of their methods and observational timescales, may have different views as to what constitute these supramolecular structures. Besides, diverse polymers can be found to offer unique avenues for multifunctional systems with properties in medicine industrial applications. Aspects of this review provide different conceptual strategies to address molecular design, properties, and potential applications of self-assembly materials and the use of metal coordination as a feasible and useful strategy for constructing complex supramolecular structures. In this order of appreciations and ideas order, it is that this review report involves classic topics such as hydrogels that range from their relationship with drug delivery systems, to metallo-supramolecular materials, through applications in ophthalmic systems, in applications that require adhesiveness and electrically conductive hydrogels. This review also addresses systems that are largely based on hydrogel chemistry and the enormous opportunities to design very specific structures for applications that demand enormous specificity.
Mechanochemistry Frees the Thiourea Dioxide (TDO) from the ‘Veils’ of the Solvent, Exposing All Its Reactivity
Authors: Basoccu Francesco , Cuccu Federico , Caboni Pietro , De Luca Lidia , Porcheddu Andrea
Published: February 2023

The synthesis of nitrogen-based heterocycles has always been considered essential in the development of pharmaceuticals in medicine and agriculture. This explains why various synthetic approaches have been proposed in recent decades. However, performing as methods often imply harsh conditions or the employment of toxic solvents and dangerous reagents. Mechanochemistry is undoubtedly one of the most promising technologies currently used for reducing any possible environmental impact due to the worldwide interest in developing solvent-free synthetic pathways. Following this line, we propose a renewed mechanochemical protocol for synthesizing various heterocyclic classes by exploiting the reducing proprieties and the electrophilic nature of thiourea dioxide (TDO). Simultaneously using the ready availability and low cost of a component of the textile industry such as TDO and all the advantages brought by a green technique such as mechanochemistry, we plotted the route towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly methodology for obtaining heterocyclic moieties.
Forecasting Geopolitical Conflicts Using GPT-3 AI: Reali-Ty-Check One Year into the 2022 Ukraine War
Authors: Jungwirth David , Haluza Daniela
Published: February 2023

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the power to generate scenarios and make predictions through the use of advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques. OpenAI’s GPT-3 AI is a state-of-the-art language model that has been trained on a large dataset of text, which allows it to generate hu-man-like text, and it can generate scenarios for different fields. However, GPT-3 was trained on data available up until June 2021, had no access to more recent data nor was connected to the internet. In this study, we investigated the capability of OpenAI’s GPT-3 AI to predict the Ukrainian war es-calation, which started in 2022 and had massive geopolitical effects. We used GPT-3´s capability to generate future scenarios, to check those scenarios for internal consistency, and to create a proba-bility estimate. The results showed that although GPT-3 described an open war as one of the low probability scenarios, its capability on predicting the future was limited. Furthermore, it became evident that checking internal consistency of the generated scenarios could be improved. We ap-preciated GPT-3 as very useful and powerful for generating future scenarios, but also concluded that its prediction capabilities of real-world events are limited, should be used with caution, and require further development.
Traffic Flow with the Adaptive Cruise Control: The Comparison between Autonomous and Manual Driving
Authors: Acerra Ennia Mariapaola , Brasile Claudia , Simone Andrea , Vignali Valeria
Published: February 2023

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is useful in the most dangerous maneuvers such as braking and acceleration. This study assesses how ACC modifies traffic flows by analysing the differences be-tween manual and autonomous driving in connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs). Using a platoon of 80 vehicles, tested in pairs on the road, it was possible to define the speed trends during braking and acceleration and the reaction times to the driving maneuvers (PRT, TH, TCC) with a kinematic data detector. The interactions between the CAV and the driver, have been studied in-novatively, i.e through gaze analysis. Situations of potential danger, characterized by the braking of the vehicle that precedes the car with the driver equipped with the eye tracker tool, have been recreated, considering the influence of the driver’s ACC experience. Results statistically confirmed that with the ACC switched on the reaction times are greater than manual driving (2.4/3.8 sec); this can lead to a reduction in road safety, further motivated by the rapid decrease in speed. The interpolation between automated and human data, finally, has allowed the detection of some criticalities of the system that are fundamental in order to reach the second level of automation.
Analisis Segmentasi Pasar Konsumen Jamu Madura Berdasarkan Aspek Perilaku (Studi Kasus Pada Konsumen Jamu "Sumber Madu" di Kelurahan Demangan Kecamatan Bangkalan Kabupaten Bangkalan Madura).
Authors: Fakhry Muhammad , Jakfar Abdul Aziz , Yayuk Sri
Published: February 2023

Marke·tsegmentation defined as market determination as sub.;.class consumer owning requirement and desire which is much the same to, becoming sub-class which can be reached withthedifferent marketing hotchpotch. ClusterAnalysis is a statistical technique todissociate objects became a certain group which is each other data analysis constructively knowable SPSS so that clusters deputizing consumer segment Madura. Result Klastering from research show have beenformed by 7clusterfrom entireall responder (100) people, among other things is: (1) cluster 1, is very paying attention to group of quality and security in purchase of goods, (2). cluster 2,group taking afancy tojamu Madura, but they remain to price, (3) cluster 3, isgroup which not take asproblem of the price in buying jamu Madura, (4) cluster 4, is group taking afancy tojamu Madura and there is desire to consume the jamu of Madura a more regular again and this group is not fanatical to certain j amu's brand, (5) cluster 5,group.which enough take afancy to thejamu Madura and they desire toconsume thejamu of Madura a more regular, (6) cluster 6, is represent taking afancy to jamu Madura and they buy thejamu alsofor thepresent of existingfamil y outside Bangkalan and to be resold and (7) cluster 7, this group take a fancy to the jamu Madura but in buying their not require the suggestionfrom famil y member orfrom others.
ANALISIS EFISIENSI DAN NILAI TAMBAH PRODUK JAMU (Studi Kasus PT. Jamu Jokotole Bangkalan)
Authors: Istifadhah Istifadhah , Jakfar Abdul Azis , Rahman Askur
Published: February 2023

Industri jamu merupakan salah satu sektor strategis yang mampu menggerakkan roda perekonomian nasional. PT. Jamu Jokotole merupakan salah satu perusahaan obat tradisional yang berada di pulau Madura, kabupaten Bangkalan yang masih memproduksi berbagai macam obat tradisional dengan bahan dasar alami. Produk jamu yang diolah tersebut diharapkan dapat meningkatkan efisiensi dan nilai tambah bagi perusahaan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui nilai efisiensi usaha dan besarnya nilai tambah produk-produk yang diproduksi PT. Jamu Jokotole di Kabupaten Bangkalan Madura. Parameter efisiensi suatu usaha agroindustri dapat dilihat melalui pendekatan Return per Cost Ratio (R/C Ratio) dan metode Hayami untuk menganalisis nilai tambah. Hasil perhitungan analisis efisiensi perusahaan PT. Jamu Jokotole dari masing-masing produk jenis kapsul memiliki nilai efisiensi lebih dari 1. Sedangkan nilai tambah dari masing-masing produk jamu PT. Jamu Jokotole Bangkalan memiliki nilai tambah lebih dari 40 %.
The role of the MOG and MTG in speech recovery of patients with hearing loss: a case study
Authors: Lee Yujun , Chen Maoqing , Yan Zhiqiang , Zhang Wenjia , Zhang Yanlong , Wang Yang , Yan Hao
Published: February 2023

Previous studies show that infants perceive speech left-hemisphere dominantly like adults, but the development of the language brain network in infants is given less attention. Here we show that functional connectivity (FC) with the whole brain in the middle temporal gyrus (MTG) and the middle occipital gyrus(MOG) plays different roles in language development. Two experiments were performed in the present study. In Experiment 1, activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis was employed to identify which brain areas are correlated with the speech outcomes of CI users.Based on the convergent findings, a case study (Experiment 2) was performed with foot reflexological stimulation. Using rs-fMRI, the change of MTG and MOG FC caused by reflexological foot stimulation was examined before age of 3 months and after the age of 6 and 9 months. Compared with control groups, the MTG FC of the infant in the case study is more significantly increased, whereas MOG FC in control is significantly less increased. This suggests MTG and MOG networks play different roles in language development. The increase of MTG FC is linked to good speech perception development, while increased MOG FC indicates poor speech perception development. Our study also shows that the functional status of the MOG and MTG may be used topredict the recovery of speech in CI users.
Contingencies of Climate Geoengineering and Moral Hazard
Authors: Sie Amanda , Brechin Steven R. , Borick Christopher P.
Published: February 2023

Geoengineering (GE) represents technologies designed to address the impacts of climate change. Two major research priorities have emerged. The first is the public’s understanding of and preferences for specific GE approaches and their perceived risks. The second is the moral hazard potential, or the preference for technological fixes that may disincentivize mitigation efforts focused on eliminating reliance on fossil fuels. We extend current research to explore the US public’s preferences for different GE approaches, and whether they predict moral hazard beliefs. We use data from the 2020 National Survey on Energy and the Environment, a nationally representative survey, and employ multinominal logistic regressions to examine the factors that predict prioritization of GE over mitigation. Our findings begin to solve the moral hazard riddle, suggesting a contingency model. We find that trust in scientists, conservative political beliefs, being non-White, and support for stratospheric aerosol injections and ambient air capture positively predicted selecting GE over standard mitigation efforts. The findings suggest that within the US context, moral hazard concerns should be directed towards a specific contingency. Moral hazard may also only be a concern for those who have lower climate risk perceptions but are forced to make climate policy choices. Further research is needed to explain the potential drivers of moral hazard beliefs, both in the US as well as beyond North American and OECD countries.
Head-to-head comparison of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi with [18F]F-FDG PET/CT in radioiodine-resistant follicular-cell derived thyroid cancers
Authors: Ballal Sanjana , Yadav Madhav , Wakade Nicky , Roesch Frank , Moon Euy Sung , Martin Marcel , Sheokand Parvind , Agarwal Shipra , Tripathi Madhavi , Sahoo Ranjit Kumar , Bal Chandrasekhar
Published: February 2023

Purpose
[18F]F-FDG is a standard and valuable diagnostic imaging modality for radioiodine-resistant follicular-cell derived thyroid cancers (RAI-R FCTC). Recently, molecular imaging probes targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have gained prominence and have proved to be a potential alternative to [18F]F-FDG PET/CT in oncological imaging. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic efficacy of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi and [18F]-FDG PET/CT in RAI-R FCTC patients.
Methods
The retrospective study included 117 RAI-R FCTC patients [68 females, 49 males; mean age: 53.2 ± 11.7 years]. Qualitative assessment parameters included comparing patient-based and lesion-based visual interpretation of both scans. The quantitative assessment included comparing standardized uptake values corrected for lean body mass (SULpeak and SULavg). The findings on both scans were validated with the morphological findings of the diagnostic computed tomography.
Results
60 had single remnants, and 9 had bilateral remnant lesions with a complete concordance in the detection rate on both PET scans. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi showed a higher detection efficiency rate for lymph nodes (sensitivity 95.4% vs 86.6%, p < 0.0001), liver metastases (100% vs. 81.3%; p < 0.0001), brain metastasis (100% vs. 43.4%; p-0.0003). Except for brain metastasis (SULpeak [68Ga]Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi vs. [18F]-FDG: 13.9 vs. 6.7) and muscle metastasis (SULpeak FAPI vs. FDG: 9.56 vs. 5.62), there was no significant difference in the median SUL uptake values between the radiotracers.
Conclusion
[68Ga]Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi showed a superior detection efficiency for lymph nodes, liver, bowel, and brain metastasis. Unlike [18F]F-FDG, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi can be used as theranostic probes in RAI-R FCTC. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi provided a complimentary benefit to the [18F]F-FDG-PET/CT scan in the imaging of RAI-R FCTC.
ANN Based Estimation of Pore Pressure of Hydrocarbon Reservoirs - A case study
Authors: Kianoush Pooria , Mohammadi Ghodratollah , Hosseini Seyed Aliakbar , Khah Nasser Keshavarz Faraj , Afzal Peyman
Published: February 2023

In seismic methods, pore pressure is estimated by converting seismic velocity into pore pressure and calibrating it with pressure results during the well-testing program. This study has been carried out using post-stack seismic data and sonic and density log data of 6 wells in one of the fields in SW Iran. While an optimum number of attributes is selected, the General regression (GRNN) provides higher accuracy than Back Propagation (BPNN) at the initial prediction stages. However, Acoustic Impedance (AI) is the most applicable seismic attribute used as root and reverses AI for estimating P-wave and density. Using a set of attributes can train the system to estimate the property. The correlation coefficient of actual and predicted P-wave using an AI seismic attribute has been calculated as 0.74 and the multi-attribute technique as 0.79. Also, density and three attributes reach from 0.57 to 0.60, which shows a better relationship between seismic attributes and density. After determining optimum layers with the principal components analysis (PCA), formation pressure was modeled with the feed forward-backpropagation (FFBP-ANN) method. Five information layers, including gamma, Vp, AI, density, and overburden pressure, have the most linear convergence with the initial pressure model and are used to modify the ANN model of effective pressure.
Modulation of Electronic Structure of Single-Atom Catalysts for Sustainable Production of Full-Spectrum Amines from Renewable Biomass
Authors: Liu Wu-Jun , Zhou Xiao , Min Yuan , Huang Jia-Wei , Chen Jie-Jie , Wu Yuen , Yu Han-Qing
Published: February 2023

Using renewable biomass to replace fossil resources for producing low-carbon-footprint but high-value chemicals is a sustainable approach to pursue a carbon-neutral society. Herein, a boron nitrogen doped carbon (BNC) confined Pd single atom catalyst (Pd SAs/BNC) is synthesized and used as a robust catalyst toward the reductive amination reaction to produce low-carbon-footprint amines from renewable biomass. Because of the finely tuned electron structure, the as-synthesized single atom catalyst delivers an ultrahigh turn-over frequency value (max. 1368 h− 1) in the reductive amination of aldehydes/ketones and demonstrates a great conversion capacity for various aldehyde/ketone and amine/nitro-compound substrates. Extensive characterizations and density functional theory calculations show that the highly polar metal-N site formed between the central Pd single atom and its neighboring N and B atoms favors hydrogen activation from the donor (reductants) and hydrogen transformation to the receptor (C = O group), resulting in a great selectivity. This system could be further extended to directly produce various aromatic and furonic amines from renewable lignocellulosic biomass, and their greenhouse gas emission potentials are negative compared to those of fossil-fuel resource-based amines. This work offers a highly efficient and sustainable approach to construct C-N bonds for the production of numerous amines from carbon-neutral biomass resources.
The prognostic analysis of non-small cell lung cancer with unexpected pleural cavity dissemination
Authors: Wang Guige , Guo Chao , Ren Tianyao , Li Shanqing
Published: February 2023

Background: The prognosis of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is poor. At present, incidental pleural cavity dissemination during operation is still unavoidable. The clinicopathological features and the best way to deal with incidental pleural cavity dissemination during operation has not been determined.
Methods: 58 NSCLC patients with pleural cavity disseminated incidentally found during surgery were included in our retrospective research from December 2012 to August 2018 according to the 8th edition of TNM staging. None of these had distant metastasis.
Results: Univariate and multivariate analysis revealed that targeted therapy was the only predictor of prognosis. Among patients receiving lymph node sampling or dissection, univariate analysis revealed that more advanced stage, lymph node metastasis, and higher proportion of metastatic lymph nodes were associated with worse progression-free survival (PFS). Smoking, more advanced stage, higher proportion of metastatic lymph nodes and no targeted therapy were significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS). Multivariate analysis recognized targeted therapy as the only predictor of prognosis. In patients not receiving targeted therapy, pleural cavity infusion chemotherapy seemed to be beneficial both to PFS and OS, but without statistical significance. Multivariate analysis found that lymph node metastasis was the only predictor of PFS, but no predictor of OS.
Conclusions: Targeted therapy is the best treatment for NSCLC patients with incidentally pleural cavity dissemination if there was target gene mutation. Pleural cavity infusion chemotherapy has potential survival benefit for patients without target gene mutations. Lymph node metastasis is not beneficial to the prognosis of patients with pleural cavity dissemination.
Short-term effects of sunn hemp intercropping management in a maize-based system on the soil fertility of a Plinthic Cambisol in Free State, South Africa
Authors: Gura Isaac , Dzvene Admire , Tesfuhuney Weldemichael , Walker Sue , Ceronio Gert
Published: February 2023

Intercropping is a promising strategy of improving soil fertility in no-till rainwater harvesting practices. However, the effect of intercropping forage legumes at various planting times and densities on soil fertility response under the in-field rainwater harvesting (IRWH) technique remains unknown in South Africa. The objective of this study was to determine the seasonal effect of sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) intercropping at different planting periods and densities into maize (Zea mays L.) after two growing seasons on selected soil fertility of a Plinthic Cambisol in Free State, South Africa. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with a factorial combination replicated thrice. The factorial combination consisted of three sunn hemp plantings dates viz., at maize planting, planting at V15 maize growth stage, and R1 maize growth stage, and three sunn hemp planting densities viz., 16.1 plants m− 2, 32.1 plants m− 2, and 48.1 plants m− 2. The results showed that the interaction of sunn hemp planting date and density was significant (p < 0.05) on soil organic matter (SOM) and Zinc (Zn). The growing season had a significant impact on changes in SOM, nitrogen (N), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), manganese (Mn), and iron (Fe). Due to the intercropping periods and planting densities, the retention of sunn hemp residues with varying quantities and qualities may have influenced the soil nutrient dynamics in the short-term. Significant changes in soil fertility may take longer, and future research should be carried out in agricultural regions with different soil mineral matrices.
The effect of scenario-based training on the Core competencies of nursing students
Authors: Sadeghi Mohammad , Nematollahi Monirsadat , Farokhzadian Jamileh , Khoshnood Zohreh , Eghbalian Mostafa
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Competency is defined as the variety of skills and knowledge required to perform a specific task. Due to the specificity of pediatric nursing, students face some challenges in acquiring core competencies. Therefore, the use of new training methods in pediatric nursing is necessary. One of the modern learning methods is learning based on clinical scenarios. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effect of scenario-based education on the core competencies of nursing students.

Method

This quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test and post-test design. All participants (n = 72) were selected via the census method and randomly divided into intervention (N = 33) and control groups (N = 40). The data were collected using a demographic information questionnaire and the Nursing Students' Clinical Competencies Questionnaire. Before the intervention, both groups completed the pre-tests. After one month, the students in both groups completed post-tests.

Results

The average score of core competencies for the students in the intervention group after the training (247.05, SD = 36.48) increased compared to before the intervention (229.05, SD = 36.58) (P > 0.05). The average score of the core competencies for the students in the control group after the training was 237.05 (SD = 36.33) compared to 235.56 (SD = 27.94) before the intervention, with no significant difference (P < 0.05). The independent t-test did not show a significant difference between the control and intervention groups before and after the intervention (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The results indicated the effectiveness of scenario-based training on the core competencies of students in the intervention group. Accordingly, nursing administrators and professors are recommended to incorporate new scenario-based teaching and learning methods in educational programs of universities. It is also necessary to conduct more research into the effectiveness of this method in combination with other training methods like team-based and problem-based training.
Flash flooding in semiarid alluvial fan apron systems: processes, forms and human activity interactions in the Menor Sea basins (Spain)
Authors: Muñoz-López Fernando , beltran francisca Segura segura , Bersi Mohand , Sanchis-Ibor Carles
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a holistic analysis of the September 12–15, 2019, flash flood in the Mar Menor basin (Spain). The research aims to analyse the causal factors, define the flooding processes and establish criteria to detect the active zone in highly anthropized alluvial apron systems. For this purpose, several data sources were combined: digital elevation models, ortophotos, precipitation and gauging data, geomorphological and flood hazard mapping and second-generation Sentinel-2 images, which were interpreted using a turbid water index. Results allow a complete characterization of flash flood processes in alluvial fan apron systems and highlight different behaviors in the different sectors of these complex fan systems. They show an important discrepancy between the actual flood processes and the official hazard mapping, which highlights the need to develop quali-quantitative approaches to better understand flood processes in alluvial apron systems. The research also shows that floods in Mediterranean alluvial apron systems must be considered as mixt processes, resulting of nature and culture interactions, because of the longstanding tradition of runoff use and management through different traditional infrastructures. Future flood mitigation strategies should recover or imitate these ancestral solutions and should lead to a radical change in urban planning design on these areas.
Structural characteristics of cocoa-based agroforestry systems can mitigate citrus Phytophthora foot rot disease intensity
Authors: MVONDO Etienne AKOUTOU , NOMO Lucien BIDZANGA , AMBANG Zachée , MANGA Faustin BELLA , NDO Eunice Golda Danièle , CILAS Christian
Published: February 2023

Tropical agroforestry systems are recognized as an attractive way to reconcile productivity and ecosystem services without compromising the agrosystem. However, to optimize ecosystem services, the structure of existing agroecosystems must be improved to enhance interactions within them. In this study, we evaluated the combined effect of shade rate and spatial structure of citrus trees in cocoa-based agro-forestry systems (CBAS) on Phytophthora foot rot disease (PFRD). A set of 33 CBAS of 2500 m2 was established in five citrus production basins in the humid forest zones of Cameroon. The citrus spatial structure was analyzed by the Ripley method. Field data, including the specific composition of the experimental plots, the tree’s geographical position, as well as their structural characteristics, were used to reconstruct CBAS in 3D. Subsequently, citrus trees were divided into 9 treatments based on the amount of shade they received (dense shade, light shade, or no shade) and their spatial structure (regular, aggregated, or random) in the CBAS. PFRD intensity was calculated by measuring the extent of the PFRD lesion relative to the circumference of the citrus crown. Citrus trees with a regular spatial structure, and located under dense or light shade showed low PFRD intensity. Citrus trees with an aggregated spatial structure, regardless of their shade situation, as well as those with a random spatial structure and no shade, showed high PFRD intensity compared to all other treatments. These results show that appropriate management of shade rate and spatial structure in CBAS can significantly contribute to the control of PFRD and thus promote citrus production in complex agroforests. For the first time, it is demonstrated that optimizing the combined effect of shade rate and spatial structure of associated trees would allow the design of optimal models of resilient agroforestry systems, capable of self-regulating pests and reducing chemical pesticide use.
Impact of Palm dates fruit intake in the alleviation of gastrointestinal manifestations of autistic children: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Metwally Ammal M. , Yousef Walaa , Abdel-Latif Ghada A. , El-Din Ebtissam M. Salah , El-Sonbaty Marwa M. , Sallam Sara F. , Nassar Maysa S. , Raouf Ehab R. Abdel , Hashish Adel F. , Elwan Ahmed M. , Mehanna Nayra Sh. , Ibrahim Nihad A. , Etreby Lobna A. El , Elshamy Nada H. , Swailem Saleh M. Al , Goda Amira A.
Published: February 2023

Aim:This study aimed at evaluating the regular intake of palm dates fruit for 12 weeks in alleviating gastrointestinal (GI) severity symptoms among autistic Egyptian children aged 3-12 years and exploring predictors for non-responsiveness to its intake.Methodology:183 Participants were randomly assigned to receive one of three regimens with completed analysis as follows; 1st: 3 dates fruit/day (47 cases), 2nd: 5 dates fruit/day (42 cases), and 3rd: non-dates group (42 cases). Responders were those who showed a reduction of GI symptoms from High- to Low- GI-Problems based on the GI Severity Index score (6-GSI)Results:There was an improvement in the GI severity symptoms with a significant reduction from the baseline of constipation and stool smell scores for the two dates fruit regimens than the non-dates group (p<0.001). 76.4 % of participants on the dates fruit regimens were responders versus 23.6 %. The study identified a deficiency of the baseline level of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium species’ log, any pathogenic microorganisms in participants’ stool, and those at inevitable risk of malnutrition as predictors for non-responsiveness to dates fruit intake.Conclusion:The current study confirmed the beneficial impact of dates fruit regular intake as a remedy for severe GI symptoms.
Parameter extraction of photovoltaic module model by using Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm based on simulated annealing method
Authors: DKHICHI Fayrouz
Published: February 2023

Reliable and accurate parameter identification of solar modules model is necessary to evaluate the performances and to control the behavior of photovoltaic systems. In this work, Levenberg-Marquardt combined with simulated annealing algorithm is proposed to extract the five parameters from the experimental data points (IPV - VPV) of Photowatt-PWP 201 polycrystalline module. The quality evaluation of the obtained outcomes is ensured by the analysis of the objective function accuracy. Therefore, the proposed method provides the highest precision compared to the results of the most recent methods reported in the literature. Moreover, a study of the convergence process has been established in the aim to observe the adjustment way of the five parameters and to assess the influence of the damping factor on the objective function optimization. The superiority of the proposed method in terms of accuracy have been tested and proven by using the IPV (VPV)measurements of SM55 mono-crystalline photovoltaic module.
Seasonal Indian Ocean primary productivity and key drivers
Authors: Maishal Subhadeep , Kuttipurath Jaynarayan , P Anjanyan
Published: February 2023

Oceanic Net primary production (NPP) results from the photosynthesis of marine plankton, which accounts for half of the global primary production and influences the carbon cycle, and transfers organic matter and energy to marine ecosystems. Anthropogenic activities severely stress the ocean ecosystem through warming and acidification and have significantly altered NPP. In this context, we assess the long-term changes in NPP in the Indian Ocean (IO) with respect to the changes in physical processes and nutrient input to the oceans. Under the extreme warming scenario, the western AS shows a positive trend (0.7–0.9 °C/yr) in summer, where the basin-wide seasonal maximum in NPP is observed (400–500 mg/m3). Similarly, the rise in SST and decline in DNO3 in the upwelling-prone regions like western AS, Seychelles-Chagos Thermocline Ridge (SCTR), and southwest AS have adversely affected the NPP in IO. Contrary to this, cooling is observed in the northern AS during winter (-0.1–0.2 °C/yr), combined with the rise in DFe concentration, favour the NPP there. A decline in NPP in the IO (-25.31 mg/yr) will adversely affect the marine food chain and biogeochemical cycles.
Synthesis and Characterization of Gamma Irradiated Polyvinyl Chloride/Graphite Carbon Nitride Nanocomposite Films for Electronic Applications
Authors: Sharaf Abdelhameed , Elhady M. A. , Abdel-Galil A. , Eladl Shaban , Nasr A.
Published: February 2023

This study introduces the synthesis of graphite-carbon nitrite (g-C3N4) using thermal treatment of urea. The prepared powder is treated to generate nanoparticles. The structure and grain size of the g-C3N4 have been obtained via X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique and transmission electron microscope. The graphite-carbon nitride on Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC/g-C3N4) nanocomposite films were produced by mixing different concentrations (0, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 20 wt%) of nanoparticles with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) solutions. The structure and elemental composition of the prepared nanocomposites films PVC/g-C3N4 were studied by using X-ray diffractions (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), (EDX), infrared spectroscopy (IR) and electron spin resonance (ESR). Also, spectral distribution of the optical absorbance for the PVC/g-C3N4 nanocomposites films was studied in the wavelength range from 190 to 1100 nm. Thermal stability of the investigated nanocomposites films was investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis technique (TGA). The effect of various concentrations of the g-C3N4 and different doses of gamma-rays on the polymeric matrix and electrical properties of PVC film also has been investigated. The g-C3N4 additives on PVC influenced the crystal structure and optical properties of the nanocomposites films. The nanocomposite film with 10% g-C3N4 achieved higher values of the refractive index and optical conductivity compared with the other films. With different doses of gamma-ray irradiation, the crystal structure and optical properties of PVC/g-C3N4 nanocomposite films were changed in accordance to the cross-linking process within the PVC polymeric chains where a structural rearrangement can be occurred as a result of gamma irradiation. The elemental composition and morphological study of PVC/ g-C3N4 nanocomposite films have been checked by the scanning electron microscopy which indicated the homogeneous dispersion of g-C3N4 nanoparticles within PVC network. Finally, electrical properties of PVC/g-C3N4 nanocomposite films with different ratios and distinct gamma doses also have been studied.
Female Social Adaptability of the Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
Authors: Thalgott Emma , Cotter Brianna
Published: February 2023

The cognition of roaches has been a rising topic of study for behavioral psychology and entomology. As researchers have started using Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches for virology or comparative psychology, they have noted unique behavior in relationships and recognition. Female Madagascar Cockroaches show adaptability in behavior in order to fulfill the colony's social needs through the adoption of orphaned nymphs and the rise of a female alpha when lacking a male. Females were set in separate containers with three nymphs of the same species. Elliptorhina chopardi females and nymphs made up a colony lacking a male. Through behavioral observation, it was determined that females quickly took to their adopted nymphs, through proximity and anxious, defensive behavior when separated or startled. These animals raise nymphs until adulthood, and nymphs show evidence of recognition of mothers in adulthood. Females that adopt and raise nymphs adapt their behavior to raise nymphs they did not birth. The nymphs follow secure attachment and are easily handleable and social, whereas nymphs without a secure mother show no boldness. A female in a male-absent colony will eventually take on male behavior such as stilting and guarding, along with a preference for a male-specific diet. Females are highly adaptable in their roles, representing higher cognition, and that social structures are integral to the development and survival of Madagascar Cockroaches, presenting that they can be a useful tool in comparative psychology.
Upward shift of breeding sites to the remote forest streams and spatial distribution of Anopheles mosquitoes in Korea, 2022
Authors: Hong Hyelee , Eom Tae Hui , Trinh Thuy-Tien Thi , Tuan Bao Duong , Park Hyun , Yeo Seon-Ju
Published: February 2023

Background
Limited information is available regarding the characterization of the current Anopheles breeding site in Korea, although malaria is still endemic.
Methods
Here, we explored Anopheline adults and breeding sites at three villages (WL, Wollong-myeon; PJ, Paju-eup; MS, Munsan-eup) at Goyang city and two villages (HS, Haseong-myeon; WG, Wolgot-myeon) at Gimpo near the demilitarized zone (DMZ) in Gyeonggi-do province, Korea from May to September 2022. Besides, a natural environmental factor associated with the seasonal abundance of Anopheles larvae was recently identified. Light traps were used to monitor mosquitos in the field in villages where P. vivax malaria cases had previously been reported. Anopheles mosquito adults were used to determine species of mosquito adults by polymerase chain reaction sequencing. Collected larvae were cultured at different concentrations of dissolved oxygen (DO) to investigate the effect of DO on larvae development.
Results
Anopheles sinensis was the most prevalent spp, showing that An. sinensis, An. pullus, An. sineroides, An. belenrae, and An. lidesayi accounted for 41.67% (33/60), 1.67% (1/60), 3.33% (2/60), 5.00% (3/60), 3.33% (2/60), respectively, (each mosquito spp./total Anopheles adult) at WG. New breeding site of Anopheles larvae was found in a forest stream at WG and associated with the forest environment. The Anopheline mosquito larvae distribution to deeper forest zone (< 100 m from human residence) and the upward shift in the most remote littoral area of the forest stream was found in Korea. Notably, the DO was significantly higher in the forest stream than in the tap water, showing 8.45 ± 0.11 and 9.7 ± 0.17 (mean ± SD) mg/L of DO, respectively, and it was confirmed in vitro culture, implying the relevance of DO in Anopheles larvae growth.
Conclusions
This study suggests the potential retreat of Anopheline mosquito larvae distribution to deeper forest zone and thus, the implementation of control measures in forest areas across the DMZ area may be requested to eradicate malaria vectors in Korea.
Economic growth and Inequality: The Kuznets Hypothesis in high inequality African regions
Authors: Mhaka Simbarashe , Sahdev Anupa
Published: February 2023

The cohort of high inequality African regions have jointly served to restrict the aggregate decline of the African inequality, in particular the Sub-Saharan region. This article investigates the determinants of economic inequality in the African regions of high inequality. We empirically test for the Kuznets’ inverted-U curve relationship in these regions. We construct a country-year panel for Middle and Southern African countries from 2000 to 2019 and employ the fixed effect panel regression model. Our results reveal an anti-Kuznets U-shaped relationship between inequality and economic growth for both regions. The numerical estimates for all specifications are however diminutive. The results depict that the drivers for reducing economic inequality in Southern Africa region are society rights and equality - an attribute of democracy and education. In the case of Middle Africa, the drivers for reduction in inequality are domestic government health expenditure, financial globalisation, social rights and equality. The results imply that economic growth is inadequate, hence additional policy levers are required to tackle the problem of economic inequality in these regions.
JEL Classifications: D63, O4, C13
Support and information needs identified in a survey of adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Paulukonis Susan T. , Coker Niani , Brocks-Capla NeDina , Rowley Carolyn , Madrigal Daniel S. , Torres Kimble M. , Capla Antwan
Published: February 2023

Newborn screening and early treatment for sickle cell disease has dramatically improved outcomes for impacted children, but adults with the disease live with chronic and acute pain, organ damage, a high risk of mortality, and diminished quality of life. Adults’ access to quality care and knowledgeable providers is limited compared to other genetic diseases.
Adults living with the disease and associated with two community-based organizations were asked to complete a survey describing their health education and information needs with regard to sickle cell, as well as their challenges finding supportive and knowledgeable care. Nearly 600 responses were received.
Respondents describe their information needs, such as the best care providers nearby, insurance options, connections to support groups. Questions also address the utility of different types of support services, as ranked by respondents. Respondents also described actions they take when experiencing a vaso-occlusive/pain crisis and answered an open-ended question about their greatest needs to improve quality of life.
Findings suggest that support groups along with knowledgeable and compassionate care are important identified needs to those living with sickle cell disease. Respondents noted reliance on friends and family as well as social media for information about their disease. They reported that the emergency room was the primary source of medical care sought when an acute pain crisis happens. These survey results highlight the many unmet needs for adults living with sickle cell disease.
Oro-dental phenotyping and report of three families with RELT-associated amelogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Dure-Molla Muriel de La , Resende Kemelly Karolliny , Riou Margot Charlotte , Yamaguti Paulo Marcio , Fournier Benjamin , Rondeau Sophie , Pacot Laurence , Berdal Ariane , Mazzeu Juliana , Cormier-Daire Valérie , Gaucher Céline , Acevedo Ana
Published: February 2023

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a group of rare genetic conditions characterized by quantitative and/or qualitative tooth enamel alterations. AI can manifest as an isolated trait or as part of a syndrome. Recently, five biallelic disease-causing variants in the RELT gene were identified in 7 families with autosomal recessive amelogenesis imperfecta (ARAI). RELT encodes an orphan receptor in the tumor necrosis factor (TNFR) superfamily expressed during tooth development, with unknown function. Here, we report one Brazilian and two French families with ARAI and a distinctive hypomineralized and hypoplastic phenotype with posteruptive enamel loss, and occlusal attrition. Using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), four novel RELT variants were identified (c.120 + 1G > A, p.(?); c.120 + 1G > T, p.(?); c.193T > C, p.(Cys65Arg) and c.1260_1263dup, p.(Arg422Glyfs*5)). Our findings extend the knowledge of ARAI dental phenotypes and expand the disease-causing variants spectrum of the RELT gene.
Quicksort for Referenced Items
Authors: de champeaux dennis
Published: February 2023

A recent experiment has convinced us that sorting native types (int, float, etc) require algorithms that differ from sorting referenced items. The former benefits from minimizing array operations (by using insertion sort for segments up to 45 length) at the expense of comparison operations (supported by the hardware), while the latter benefits from minimizing comparison operations, which can be arbitrary expensive. Most experimental research in the preceding 60 years used sorting integer arrays and observing swap counts instead of comparison counts. We present several one- and three-pivot versions for sorting referenced items. These versions: • have guaranteed NlogN performance (ignoring cache congestions), • have linear complexity on constant arrays, • are hybrids with four members dealing with different segment ranges, one of them is also responsible for ‘difficult’ segments and heapsort for when the recursion depth is too high, • use a novel technique to obtain better pivots, which reduces the timings substantially, • outperform all versions we have identified for referenced items, and • have comparison counts for sorting uniform distributions that are close to the theoretical minimum. One of our experiments challenges the viability of multi-pivot Quicksort.