bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Anti-Tumor and Hypoglycemic Effects of Total Flavonoids from Willow Buds
Authors: Zhang Peng , Fan Lulu , Zhang Dongyan , Zhang Zehui , Wang Weili
Published: November 2023

Salix babylonica L. is a species of willow tree that is widely cultivated worldwide as an ornamental plant, but its medicinal resources have not yet been reasonably developed or utilized. Herein, we extracted and purified the total flavonoids from willow buds (PTFW) for component analysis in order to evaluate their in vitro anti-tumor and hypoglycemic activities. Through Q-Orbitrap LC-MS/MS analysis, a total of 10 flavonoid compounds were identified (including flavones, flavan-3-ols, and flavonols). The inhibitory effects of PTFW on the proliferation of cervical cancer HeLa cells, colon cancer HT-29 cells, and breast cancer MCF7 cells were evaluated using an MTT assay. Moreover, the hypoglycemic activity of PTFW was determined by investigating the inhibitory effects of PTFW on α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The results indicated that PTFW significantly suppressed the proliferation of HeLa cells, HT-29 cells, and MCF7 cells, with IC50 values of 1.432, 0.3476, and 2.297 mg/mL, respectively. PTFW, at different concentrations, had certain inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, with IC50 values of 2.94 mg/mL and 1.87 mg/mL, respectively. In conclusion, PTFW at different doses exhibits anti-proliferation effects on all three types of cancer cells, particularly on HT-29 cells, and also shows significant hypoglycemic effects. Willow buds have the potential to be used in functional food and pharmaceutical industries.
Analytical Methods Based on the Mass Balance Approach for Purity Evaluation of Tetracycline Hydrochloride
Authors: Lee Sunyoung , Baek Song-Yee , Kwon Ha-Jeong , Choi Ki Hwan , Han Jeesoo
Published: November 2023

Analytical methods based on the mass balance approach were developed for the purity evaluation of tetracycline hydrochloride, a representative salt compound used in pure veterinary drug analysis. The purity assignment method was used to quantify individual classes of impurities via independent analytical techniques. The mass fraction of the free base or salt form contained in a high-purity organic compound with a hydrochloride salt can be determined. The chloride content by ion chromatography-conductivity detector (IC-CD) and general classes of impurities, including structurally related impurities by liquid chromatography–ultraviolet (LC-UV) detector, water by Karl Fischer (KF) coulometric titration, residual solvents by headspace sampler gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS-GC/MS), and non-volatiles by thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), were considered to calculate the purity of the mass fraction. The chloride content of the salt compound can be considered the main impurity in the mass fraction of the free base in the salt compound. A purity assay using quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance (q-NMR) as a direct determination method was performed to confirm the results of the mass balance method. The assigned purities of the tetracycline free form and its salt form in mass fraction were (898.80 ± 1.60) mg/g and (972.65 ± 1.58) mg/g, respectively, which are traceable to the international system of units (SI). Thus, the procedure for evaluating the purity of the free base and salt forms in the salt compound is newly demonstrated in this study.
Furthering the Development of Virtual Agents and Communication Robot Devices through the Consideration of the Temporal Home
Authors: Pooley Andrew C. , May Andrew , Mitchell Val
Published: November 2023

This paper extends current research on Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) within Human–Computer Interaction (HCI), focusing on how future virtual agents and communication robots can support the temporal structures and routines within the home. We recruited representatives from 15 households with varied compositions, ranging from single inhabitants to full nest families. Drawing upon P.G. Wodehouse’s The Inimitable Jeeves as an inspiration, the methodology sought to imitate the relationship between a recruitment agency worker (researcher) and an employer (participant) seeking to hire a personal assistant (e.g., a virtual agent or communication robot device) for their home. A ‘household audit’ comprising a guided household tour and an architectural survey was conducted to ascertain the nuanced spatiotemporal routines within the home. The study analysed the responses of participants using the Labovian narrative schema, a traditional method in linguistics research. The findings were then examined through the lens of Reddy et al.’s temporal features of work to understand how domestic work unfolds within the home from a temporal perspective. We argue that the temporal concepts discussed by Reddy et al. provided valuable insights into the temporal dynamics of everyday activities and could inform the design of virtual agents and communication robotic devices to fulfil their roles as domesticated ‘personal assistants’.
The Effects of Zinc on Proprioceptive Sensory Function and Nerve Conduction
Authors: Elliott Elizabeth R. , Brock Kaitlyn E. , Taul Alaina C. , Asadipooya Artin , Bocook Devin , Burnette Tessa , Chauhan Isha V. , Chhadh Bilal , Crane Ryan , Glover Ashley , Griffith Joshua , Hudson JayLa A. , Kashif Hassan , Nwadialo Samuel O. , Neely Devan M. , Nukic Adel , Patel Deep R. , Ruschman Gretchen L. , Sales Johnathan C. , Yarbrough Terra , Cooper Robin L.
Published: November 2023

Zinc (Zn2+) is an essential element that can promote proper organ function, cell growth, and immune response; it can also, however, be present in too great a quantity. Zinc toxicity caused by overexposure may result in both minor and major physiological effects, with chronic exposure at low levels and acute exposure at high levels being harmful or even toxic. This investigation examines the effects of acute exposure to relatively high concentrations of Zn2+ on sensory nerve function and nerve conduction. A proprioceptive nerve in marine crab (Callinectes sapidus) limbs was used as a model to assess the effects of Zn2+ on stretch-activated channels (SACs) and evoked nerve conduction. Exposure to Zn2+ slowed nerve condition rapidly; however, several minutes were required before the SACs in sensory endings were affected. A depression in conduction speed and an increase followed by a decrease in amplitude were observed for the evoked compound action potential, while the frequency of nerve activity upon joint movement and stretching of the chordotonal organ significantly decreased. These altered responses could be partially reversed via extensive flushing with fresh saline to remove the zinc. This indicates that subtle, long-term exposure to Zn2+ may alter an organism’s SAC function for channels related to proprioception and nerve conduction.
Ambifictional Counterfactuals
Authors: Bassford Andrew D.
Published: November 2023

In this paper, I argue that David Lewis’s possible world semantics for counterfactual discourse and for fictional discourse are apparently inconsistent and in need of revision. The problem emerges for Lewis’s account once one considers how to evaluate ambifictional counterfactuals. Since this is likely not a concept familiar to most, and since it does not appear that the problem has been previously recognized in the critical literature, I will begin by rehearsing Lewis’s possible worlds semantics for counterfactuals and fiction. Then I will explicate the distinction between intrafictional, extrafictional, interfictional, and ambifictional propositions. Next, I will state what an ambifictional counterfactual proposition is, and explain why this kind of discourse confounds Lewis’s system. I will conclude, finally, with a brief discussion of how the Lewisian would be best advised to resolve the paradox.
Tunable Vernier Series-Coupled Microring Resonator Filters Based on InGaAs/InAlAs Multiple Quantum-Well Waveguide
Authors: Peng Zhifeng , Arakawa Taro
Published: November 2023

We demonstrate a fourth-order Vernier serious-coupled microring resonator (MRR) filter based on the InGaAs/InAlAs five-layer asymmetric coupled quantum-well (FACQW) waveguide. As the tuning of the main resonance wavelength is driven by the electrorefractive index change in the FACQW layer caused by the quantum-confined Stark effect (QCSE), the MRR filter has lower tuning power consumption and high-speed operation. The free spectral range (FSR) of the MRR filter is extended to 9.4 nm. The main resonant peak is discretely tuned within one FSR, leading to an increase in the wavelength channel.
Sand Erosion Resistance and Failure Mechanism of Polyurethane Film on Helicopter Rotor Blades
Authors: Zheng Linfeng , Fan Jinjuan , Gong Qing , Sun Wei , Jia Xinghui
Published: November 2023

Polyurethane is widely used on the surface of composite materials for rotor blades as sand erosion protection materials. The failure mechanism investigation of polyurethane film under service conditions is useful for developing the optimal polyurethane film for rotor blades. In this article, the sand erosion test parameters were ascertained according to the service environment of the polyurethane film. The sand erosion resistance and failure mechanism of polyurethane film at different impact angles were analyzed by an infrared thermometer, a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), and a laser confocal microscope (CLSM). The results show that the direct measurement method of volume loss can better characterize the sand erosion resistance of the polyurethane film compared to traditional mass loss methods, which avoids the influence of sand particles embedded in the polyurethane film. The sand erosion resistance of polyurethane film at low-angle impact is much lower than that at high-angle impact. At an impact rate of 220 m/s, the volume loss after sand erosion for 15 min at the impact angle of 30° is 57.8 mm3, while that at the impact angle of 90° is only 2.6 mm3. The volume loss prediction equation was established according to the experimental data. During low-angle erosion, the polyurethane film damage is mainly caused by sand cutting, which leads to wrinkling and accumulation of surface materials, a rapid increase in roughness, and the generation of long cracks. The linking of developing cracks would lead to large-scale shedding of polyurethane film. During high-angle erosion, the polyurethane film damage is mainly caused by impact. The connection of small cracks caused by impact leads to the shedding of small pieces of polyurethane, while the change in the roughness of the film is not as significant as that during low-angle erosion. The disordered arrangement of the soft and hard blocks becomes locally ordered under the action of impact and cutting loads. Then, the disordered state is restored after the erosion test finishes. The erosion of sand particles leads to an increase in the temperature of the erosion zone of the polyurethane film, and the maximum temperature rise is 6 °C, which does not result in a significant change in the molecular structure of the polyurethane film. The erosion failure mechanism is cracking caused by sand cutting and impact.
Thermodynamic Assessment of the Fe–Mn–Ni System and Diffusion Mobility of Its Face-Centered Cubic Phase
Authors: Wang Min , Fan Guodong , Ma Chengyang , Mei Yu , Luo Tao , Zheng Weisen , Wang Jiang
Published: November 2023

Through extrapolation of updated binary descriptions, the Fe–Mn–Ni system was thermodynamically elucidated in a self-consistent way. The obtained thermodynamic description was confirmed to be reliable by measuring phase equilibria at relatively low temperatures. Our current thermodynamic evaluation can describe the phase stabilities over a wide temperature range and provide a reliable thermodynamic factor for the diffusion mobility optimization. For the face-centered cubic (FCC) phase in the investigated alloy system, optimization of diffusion mobilities was accomplished with the CALPHAD method. Interdiffusivities were extracted based on the composition-distance profiles of diffusion couples investigated herein. Through comprehensive diffusion behavior comparisons, our proposed diffusion mobilities were confirmed.
Recent Advances in Nanoencapsulated and Nano-Enhanced Phase-Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage: A Review
Authors: Khlissa Faïçal , Mhadhbi Mohsen , Aich Walid , Hussein Ahmed Kadhim , Alhadri Muapper , Selimefendigil Fatih , Öztop Hakan F. , Kolsi Lioua
Published: November 2023

Phase-change materials (PCMs) are becoming more widely acknowledged as essential elements in thermal energy storage, greatly aiding the pursuit of lower building energy consumption and the achievement of net-zero energy goals. PCMs are frequently constrained by their subpar heat conductivity, despite their expanding importance. This in-depth research includes a thorough categorization and close examination of PCM features. The most current developments in nanoencapsulated PCM (NEPCMs) techniques are also highlighted, along with recent developments in thermal energy storage technology. The assessment also emphasizes how diligently researchers have worked to advance the subject of PCMs, including the creation of devices with improved thermal performance using nano-enhanced PCMs (NEnPCMs). This review intends to highlight the progress made in improving the efficiency and efficacy of PCMs by providing a critical overview of these improvements. The paper concludes by discussing current challenges and proposing future directions for the continued advancement of PCMs and their diverse applications.
Pipette-Free and Fully Integrated Paper Device Employing DNA Extraction, Isothermal Amplification, and Carmoisine-Based Colorimetric Detection for Determining Infectious Pathogens
Authors: Nguyen Hanh An , Lee Nae Yoon
Published: November 2023

A pipette-free and fully integrated device that can be used to accurately recognize the presence of infectious pathogens is an important and useful tool in point-of-care testing, particularly when aiming to decrease the unpredictable threats posed by disease outbreak. In this study, a paper device is developed to integrate the three main processes required for detecting infectious pathogens, including DNA extraction, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and detection. All key reagents, including sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), NaOH, LAMP reagents, and carmoisine, are placed on the paper device. The paper device is operated simply via sliding and folding without using any bulky equipment, and the results can be directly observed by the naked eye. The optimized concentrations of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and carmoisine were found to be 0.1%, 0.1 M, and 0.5 mg/mL, respectively. The paper device was used to detect Enterococcus faecium at concentrations as low as 102 CFU/mL within 60 min. Also, E. faecium spiked in milk was successfully detected using the paper device, demonstrating the feasible application in real sample analysis.
Rehabilitation of Patients with Arthrogenic Muscular Inhibition in Pathologies of Knee Using Virtual Reality
Authors: Flórez Fonnegra Juan Pablo , Pino Prestan Andrea Carolina , López Lucelly López , Yepes Juan C. , Pérez Vera Z.
Published: November 2023

Arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI) refers to muscular alterations that are generated, producing biomechanical motor control and movement problems, leading to deficiencies in strength and atrophy. Currently, there exist methods that involve virtual reality (VR) and have been well perceived by physiotherapists. The present research measured the potential benefits in terms of therapeutic adherence and speed of recovery, through a comparative analysis in a healthcare provider institution, in Medellín, Colombia, with and without the aid of VR. For this purpose, dynamometry, and surface electromyography (sEMG) signal acquisition tools were used. The treatment involved neuromodulation, ranges of motion and mobility work, strengthening and reintegration into movement, complemented with TENS, NMENS and therapeutic exercise, where the patient was expected to receive a satisfactory and faster adherence and recovery. A group of 15 people with AMI who include at least 15 min of VR per session in their treatment were compared with another group who received only the base treatment, i.e., the control group. Analyzing the variables individually, it is possible to affirm that VR, as a complement, statistically significantly improved the therapeutic adherence in 33.3% for CG and 37.5% for IG. Additionally, it increased strength with both legs, the symmetry between them, and decreased the level of pain and stiffness that is related to mobility.
Performance Analysis of the Spanish Men’s Top and Second Professional Football Division Teams during Eight Consecutive Seasons
Authors: Errekagorri Ibai , López del Campo Roberto , Resta Ricardo , Castellano Julen
Published: November 2023

The present study aimed to analyse the performance of the Spanish men’s top (LaLiga1) and second (LaLiga2) professional football division teams for eight consecutive seasons (from 2011–2012 to 2018–2019). The variables recorded were Passes, Successful Passes, Crosses, Shots, Goals, Corners, Fouls, Width, Length, Height, distance from the goalkeeper to the nearest defender (GkDef) and total distance covered (TD). The main results were that (1) LaLiga1 teams showed lower values of Length from 2013–2014, and lower values of GkDef and TD from 2014–2015; (2) LaLiga2 teams showed fewer Passes and lower values of GkDef and TD from 2014–2015, and fewer Goals and lower values of Length from 2015–2016; and (3) LaLiga1 teams showed more Passes, Successful Passes, Shots and Goals and higher values of TD compared to LaLiga2 teams during the eight-season period. This study concludes that LaLiga1 teams showed fewer final offensive actions, LaLiga2 teams showed fewer Passes and Goals and the teams of both leagues played in a space with greater density (meters by player), covering less distance as the seasons passed. The information provided in this study makes it possible to have reference values that have characterised the performance of the teams.
A Sparse-Array Design Method Using Q Uniform Linear Arrays for Direction-of-Arrival Estimation
Authors: Zhang Jin , Xu Haiyun , Ba Bin , Mei Fengtong
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, sparse arrays have been a hotspot for research in the direction of arrival (DOA). In order to achieve a big value for degrees of freedom (DOFs) using spatial smoothing methods, researchers try to use multiple uniform linear arrays (ULAs) to construct sparse arrays. But, with the number of subarrays increasing, the complexity also increases. Hence, in this paper, a design method, named as the cross-coarray consecutive-connected (4C) criterion, and the sparse array using Q ULAs (SA-UQ) are proposed. We first analyze the virtual sensor distribution of SA-U2 and extend the conclusions to SA-UQ, which is the 4C criterion. Then, we give an algorithm to solve the displacement between subarrays under the given Q ULAs. At last, we consider a special case, SA-U3. Through the analysis of DOFs, SA-UQ can find underdetermined signals. Moreover, SA-U3 can obtain DOFs close to other sparse arrays using three ULAs. The simulation experiments prove the performance of SA-UQ.
Soft Sensor Modeling Method for the Marine Lysozyme Fermentation Process Based on ISOA-GPR Weighted Ensemble Learning
Authors: Lu Na , Wang Bo , Zhu Xianglin
Published: November 2023

Due to the highly nonlinear, multi-stage, and time-varying characteristics of the marine lysozyme fermentation process, the global soft sensor models established using traditional single modeling methods cannot describe the dynamic characteristics of the entire fermentation process. Therefore, this study proposes a weighted ensemble learning soft sensor modeling method based on an improved seagull optimization algorithm (ISOA) and Gaussian process regression (GPR). First, an improved density peak clustering algorithm (ADPC) was used to divide the sample dataset into multiple local sample subsets. Second, an improved seagull optimization algorithm was used to optimize and transform the Gaussian process regression model, and a sub-prediction model was established. Finally, the fusion strategy was determined according to the connectivity between the test samples and local sample subsets. The proposed soft sensor model was applied to the prediction of key biochemical parameters of the marine lysozyme fermentation process. The simulation results show that the proposed soft sensor model can effectively predict the key biochemical parameters with relatively small prediction errors in the case of limited training data. According to the results, this model can be expanded to the soft sensor prediction applications in general nonlinear systems.
Simultaneous Sensing and Actuating Capabilities of a Triple-Layer Biomimetic Muscle for Soft Robotics
Authors: García-Córdova Francisco , Guerrero-González Antonio , Zueco Joaquín , Cabrera-Lozoya Andrés
Published: November 2023

This work presents the fabrication and characterization of a triple-layered biomimetic muscle constituted by polypyrrole (PPy)-dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS)/adhesive tape/PPy-DBS demonstrating simultaneous sensing and actuation capabilities. The muscle was controlled by a neurobiologically inspired cortical neural network sending agonist and antagonist signals to the conducting polymeric layers. Experiments consisted of controlled voluntary movements of the free end of the muscle at angles of ±20°, ±30°, and ±40° while monitoring the muscle’s potential response. Results show the muscle’s potential varies linearly with applied current amplitude during actuation, enabling current sensing. A linear dependence between muscle potential and temperature enabled temperature sensing. Electrolyte concentration changes also induced exponential variations in the muscle’s potential, allowing for concentration sensing. Additionally, the influence of the electric current density on the angular velocity, the electric charge density, and the desired angle was studied. Overall, the conducting polymer-based soft biomimetic muscle replicates properties of natural muscles, permitting simultaneous motion control, current, temperature, and concentration sensing. The integrated neural control system exhibits key features of biological motion regulation. This muscle actuator with its integrated sensing and control represents an advance for soft robotics, prosthetics, and biomedical devices requiring biomimetic multifunctionality.
Quantitative Colorimetric Sensing of Carbidopa in Anti-Parkinson Drugs Based on Selective Reaction with Indole-3-Carbaldehyde
Authors: Palladino Pasquale , Rainetti Alberto , Lettieri Mariagrazia , Pieraccini Giuseppe , Scarano Simona , Minunni Maria
Published: November 2023

The quality of life of patients affected by Parkinson’s disease is improved by medications containing levodopa and carbidopa, restoring the dopamine concentration in the brain. Accordingly, the affordable quality control of such pharmaceuticals is very important. Here is reported the simple and inexpensive colorimetric quantification of carbidopa in anti-Parkinson drugs by the selective condensation reaction between the hydrazine group from carbidopa and the formyl functional group of selected aldehydes in acidified hydroalcoholic solution. An optical assay was developed by using indole-3-carbaldehyde (I3A) giving a yellow aldazine in EtOH:H2O 1:1 (λmax~415 nm) at 70 °C for 4 h, as confirmed by LC-MS analysis. A filter-based plate reader was used for colorimetric data acquisition, providing superior results in terms of analytical performances for I3A, with a sensitivity ~50 L g−1 and LOD ~0.1 mg L−1 in comparison to a previous study based on vanillin, giving, for the same figures of merit values, about 13 L g−1 and 0.2–0.3 mg L−1, respectively. The calibration curves for the standard solution and drugs were almost superimposable, therefore excluding interference from the excipients and additives, with very good reproducibility (avRSD% 2–4%) within the linear dynamic range (10 mg L−1–50 mg L−1).
Knowledge and Self-Assessment of Dental Injuries and Oral Health among Croatian Professional Water Polo Players: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tadin Antonija , Buzov Josip
Published: November 2023

Objectives/Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate oral health knowledge, and the incidence of self-reported dental injuries incidence, the frequency of mouthguard use, oral hygiene habits, and oral health status among professional water polo players. Materials and Methods: During the 2022/2023 season, 114 water polo players from the Croatian First League participated in a questionnaire-based online survey. The data collected included sociodemographic and professional attributes, oral health knowledge questions, dental injury experiences, and practices related to mouthguard use. Respondents also rated their own oral health status and oral hygiene habits. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a regression analysis. Results: The respondents demonstrated inadequate knowledge of oral health, with a mean score of 6.4 ± 2.6 out of 12. Better knowledge correlated positively with older age (p ˂ 0.05) and consistent flossing (p = 0.014). Additionally, 27.2% (31 of 114) of reported dental injuries were related directly to incidents which occurred while participating in water polo. These injuries occurred more frequently during games (54.8%) and often involved the anterior maxillary incisors (71.0%) due to player contact (87.1%). Awareness of mouthguards was high (93.9%), whereas their actual use was low (7.0%) because 35.1% of respondents reported discomfort wearing them. The respondents’ self-assessments revealed widespread dental problems, including tooth sensitivity (13.3%), erosion (15.8%), calculus (28.1%), and pigmentation (7.9%). Conclusions: The research results indicate a lack of adequate knowledge among the respondents regarding oral health. This deficit was not associated with oral hygiene habits or oral cavity conditions. These findings highlight the disparities in oral health awareness and practices associated with water polo participation and emphasize the importance of education and prevention efforts.
A Comprehensive Survey of Cybersecurity Threats, Attacks, and Effective Countermeasures in Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Alnajim Abdullah , Habib Shabana , Islam Muhammad , Thwin Su , Alotaibi Faisal
Published: November 2023

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) ecosystem faces increased risks and vulnerabilities due to adopting Industry 4.0 standards. Integrating data from various places and converging several systems have heightened the need for robust security measures beyond fundamental connection encryption. However, it is difficult to provide adequate security due to the IIoT ecosystem’s distributed hardware and software. The most effective countermeasures must be suggested together with the crucial vulnerabilities, linked threats, and hazards in order to protect industrial equipment and ensure the secure functioning of IIoT systems. This paper presents a thorough analysis of events that target IIoT systems to alleviate such concerns. It also offers a comprehensive analysis of the responses that have been advanced in the most recent research. This article examines several kinds of attacks and the possible consequences to understand the security landscape in the IIoT area. Additionally, we aim to encourage the development of effective defenses that will lessen the hazards detected and secure the privacy, accessibility, and reliability of IIoT systems. It is important to note that we examine the issues and solutions related to IIoT security using the most recent findings from research and the literature on this subject. This study organizes and evaluates recent research to provide significant insight into the present security situation in IIoT systems. Ultimately, we provide outlines for future research and projects in this field.
Growth Hormones in Broad Bean (Vicia faba L.) and Radish (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus L.) Are Associated with Accumulated Concentrations of Perfluoroalkyl Substances
Authors: Groffen Thimo , Kuijper Niels , Oden Sevgi , Willems Tim , Bervoets Lieven , Prinsen Els
Published: November 2023

In this study, we grew radish (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus L.) and broad beans (Vicia faba L.) in a greenhouse on soils spiked with a mixture of 15 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and investigated the association between accumulated ∑PFAS concentrations, growth, and hormone levels. Short-chained PFASs dominated aboveground tissues, whereas long-chained PFASs were most abundant in the plant roots. Our results showed that the presence or absence of exodermal Casparian strips, as well as the hydrophobicity and anion exchange capacities of PFASs, could explain the translocation of PFASs within plants. Significant associations found between accumulated PFAS concentrations and levels of gibberellins (GA1 and GA15), methionine, and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) imply potential effects of PFASs on plant development and growth. This study provides the first evidence of associations between PFAS accumulation in plants and growth hormone levels, possibly leading to growth reduction of the apical dome and effects on the cell cycle in pericycle cells and methionine metabolism in plants.
Polystyrene Nanoplastics in Aquatic Microenvironments Affect Sperm Metabolism and Fertilization of Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamark, 1819)
Authors: Contino Martina , Ferruggia Greta , Indelicato Stefania , Pecoraro Roberta , Scalisi Elena Maria , Salvaggio Antonio , Brundo Maria Violetta
Published: November 2023

The continuous and unregulated discharge of wastes and pollutants into the aquatic environment has required constant monitoring of the risks incurred by aquatic ecosystems. Alarmism arises from plastic pollution as larger artifacts release nanoscale fragments that can contact free-living stages such as gametes, embryos, and larvae. Specifically, the interaction between spermatozoa, released in water in externally fertilizing species, and the surrounding microenvironment is essential for successful fertilization. Activation and kinematics of movement, proper maintenance of ionic balance, and chemotactism are processes highly sensitive to even minimal perturbations caused by pollutants such as polystyrene nanoplastics. Spermatozoa of Mytilus galloprovincialis (M. galloprovincialis), an excellent ecotoxicological model, undergo structural (plasma membrane ruptures, DNA damage) and metabolic (reduced motility, fertilizing capacity) damage upon exposure to 50 nm amino-modified polystyrene nanoplastics (nPS-NH2). Nanoplastics of larger diameter (100 nm) did not affect sperm parameters. The findings highlighted the negative impact that plastic pollution, related to nanoparticle diameter and concentration, could have on sperm quality and reproductive potential of organisms, altering the equilibrium of aquatic ecosystems.
Diagnostic Assessment in the Wet and Dry Seasons of Simple Weirs Constructed by Small-Scale Farmers in the Northern Region Provinces of Zambia
Authors: Kabwe Alex Lushikanda , Hyodo Masahiro , Ogata Hidehiko , Sagawa Yoshihiro , Adachi Yoshinao , Ishii Masayuki
Published: November 2023

An intervention recently made in Zambia is the promotion of small-scale irrigation using simple weirs, which aims to encourage small-scale farmers in the country’s rural areas to engage in irrigated food production throughout the dry season. This irrigation method relies on conventional weirs to divert the river’s flow. This study was carried out in three northern region provinces of Zambia between November 2022 and January 2023 to conduct a functional diagnostic assessment of simple weirs during the dry and rainy seasons. In this study, 15 simple weirs were chosen for investigation. The goal of this study was to determine their physical status, identify their problems and scope, and evaluate simple weirs’ potential for river water diversion. According to this study, 26% of the weirs had broken sections and 67% were in excellent condition (being recently maintained and restored). Despite the challenges mentioned earlier, farmers have continued to construct them because they cannot afford to purchase stone or concrete irrigation structures due to the location and/or small-scale area available for irrigation development. Simple weirs may act as a beneficial supplement to irrigation technologies. The use of local building materials and the use of traditional skills is encouraged by this technology.
Cortical Organoid-on-a-Chip with Physiological Hypoxia for Investigating Tanshinone IIA-Induced Neural Differentiation
Authors: Zhi Yue , Zhu Yujuan , Wang Jinglin , Zhao Junqi , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: November 2023

Cortical organoids represent cutting-edge models for mimic human brain development during the early and even middle stage of pregnancy, while they often fail to recreate the complex microenvironmental factors, such as physiological hypoxia. Herein, to recapitulate fetal brain development, we propose a novel cortical organoid-on-a-chip with physiological hypoxia and further explore the effects of tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) in neural differentiation. The microfluidic chip was designed with a micropillar array for the controlled and efficient generation of cortical organoids. With low oxygen, the generated cortical organoids could recapitulate key aspects of early-gestational human brain development. Compared to organoids in normoxic culturing condition, the promoted neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and neuronal maturation were observed in the present microsystem, suggesting the significance of physiological hypoxia in cortical development. Based on this model, we have found that Chinese herbal drug Tan IIA could promote neural differentiation and maturation, indicating its potential therapeutic effects on neurodevelopmental disorders as well as congenital neuropsychiatric diseases. These results indicate that the proposed biomimetic cortical organoid-on-a-chip model with physiological hypoxia can offer a promising platform to simulate prenatal environment, explore brain development, and screen natural neuroactive components.
Neural network predictions of drawdown from groundwater abstraction in the Egebjerg catchment, Denmark
Authors: Dahl Mathias Busk , Vilhelmsen Troels Norvin , Enemark Trine , Hansen Thomas Mejer
Published: November 2023

Results from numerical simulations play a vital role in the decision process of everyday groundwater management. However, these simulations can be time-consuming for large-scale investigations, and it can be necessary to apply approximate methods instead. This study investigates the abilities of a neural network to replicate simulated drawdown from groundwater abstraction in a numerical groundwater model of the Egebjerg catchment, Denmark. We follow a generalised methodology that uses the information within the deterministic numerical model to create a training set for the neural network to learn from and extend the method to work in a 3D Danish groundwater model case. We compare the abilities of the trained neural network with the results of conventional computations in terms of speed and accuracy and argue that this approach has the potential to improve decision support for decision-makers within groundwater management.
İzmir Körfez’inde Dağılım Gösteren Benekli Hani (Serranus hepatus Linnaeus, 1758) Balığının Büyüme ve Beslenme Özellikleri
Authors: IRMAK Erhan , MATER Savaş
Published: November 2023

Bu çalışmada, İzmir Körfezi’nde benekli hani balığının (Serranus hepatus, L.,1758) yaş, büyüme ve beslenme özellikleri tespit edilmesi hedeflenmiştir. Ocak 2005–Nisan 2005 tarihleri arasında, İzmir Körfezi’nden trol ağı ile aylık olarak toplam 1062 adet S. hepatus elde edilmiştir. Bireylerin 0-III yaş grupları arasında dağılım gösterdiği belirlenmiştir. Minimum, maksimum ve ortalama total boy sırasıyla, 6.0, 11.6 ve 9.51 ± 0,71 cm’dir. Minimum, maksimum ve ortalama ağırlık sırasıyla, 3.71, 25.49 ve 13.04 ± 2,85 g’dır. Total boy-ağırlık ilişkisi esas alınarak hesaplanan boy ağırlık ilişkileri, W=0.0182*L2.91, r= 0.94 olarak tespit edilmiştir. Von Bertalanffy büyüme parametreleri tüm bireyler için Lt = 12.52 * [1-e-0.435 (t+1.194)] ve Wt= 39.80 * [1-e-0.135 (t+1.035)]2.91 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Türün genel beslenme özelliklerini tespit etmek amacıyla mide içeriği incelenmiş ve temel besin grubunun dekapod krustaseler olduğu ortaya çıkmıştır.
SEGURANÇA DO TRÁFEGO AQUAVIÁRIO E A ECONOMIA AZUL
Authors: LUIZ GOMES MARTINS FERREIRA PEDRO
Published: November 2023

The sea and Brazil have always been close because it was through him that the country was discovered and is currently its main route to foreign trade, in addition to being a source of energy, food and mineral resources. The relationship between the nation and the sea can be understood by studying the operation of Brazilian waterway traffic and how maritime safety is important for national development. To develop this theme, this article provides an overview of basic concepts of waterway traffic and the Blue Economy, discussing traffic safety actions that allow economic development at sea to ensure the safety of vessels. Thus, it concludes that the protection of Brazilian waters, in addition to imposing the sovereignty of the country, is crucial for the future of the country.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DA FISCALIZAÇÃO DO TRÁFEGO AQUAVIÁRIO PARA A PREVENÇÃO DA POLUIÇÃO POR ÓLEO NAS ÁGUAS
Authors: SILVA FONSECA FERREIRA NADIA
Published: November 2023

In the current scenario of globalization, waterways are trully relevant for the flow of various products throughout the world, with emphasis on the commercialization and movement of oil and its derivatives. In this sense, the purpose of this article is to present the importance of monitoring vessel traffic in the Brazilian waters for the prevention of oil pollution. To this end, the definitions of oil pollution and its impacts on the environment and the country's economy will initially be introduced. Next, the rules relating to the topic that exist at a global and national level will be explained. Finally, the existing mechanisms in Brazil for the inspection and control of vessels and incidents related to oil pollution in the waters will be presented, concluding the crucial role of this inspection in order to avoid and/or minimize the risk of polluting incidents.
When you cannot ask the judge: Using the case to explore judicial culture
Authors: Cahill-O'Callaghan Rachel
Published: November 2023

Much of our understanding of the judicial role and culture is grounded in data gathered through interviews, surveys, and observations of judges.  However, in the UK access to the judiciary and the nature and form of questions you can ask of them is strictly controlled.  This paper argues that the case is an important artefact of judicial culture. The analysis of judicial decisions provides an insight into the factors that shape the decision-making culture and the influence of culture on individual decision makers. The analysis of cases raises important questions about the decision-making culture in the highest court.
influencia de científicos británicos a lo largo del siglo XX en la consolidación de la epidemiología
Authors: Bottasso Oscar
Published: November 2023

El manuscrito hace referencia a los acontecimientos más salientes que se fueron dando a lo largo del siglo XX, gestados por un grupo de investigadores británicos, cuyos desarrollos y aportes le dieron un gran espaldarazo a la epidemiología; la cual desde una mirada originalmente descriptiva pasó a alcanzar un notable componente analítico. Logros que a su vez han incidido favorablemente sobre otros campos disciplinares fomentando la realización de investigaciones clínicas aplicadas con gran impacto en salud humana.
Studi Ekologi dan Morfometrik Kepiting Kelapa (Birgus Latro L.): Studi Kasus di Desa Waonu, Pulau Kadatua, Sulawesi Tenggara
Authors: Mustapa Faizal , Ramli Muh. , Said Anwar , Wibowo Dwiprayogo
Published: November 2023

Birgus latro L. adalah kepiting pertapa darat terbesar di dunia. Spesies ini tersebar luas di pulau-pulau terpencil Indo-Pasifik di daerah tropis, tetapi populasinya menurun drastis. Tujuan penelitian ini mengidentifikasi ekologi dan kelimpahan relatif dari keberadaan Birgus latro L. di Pulau Kadatua, Kabupaten Buton, Sulawesi Tenggara. Metode penelitian yang dilakukan dengan pendekatan kuantitatif dan observasi lapangan. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui survei visual, uji parameter lingkungan, dan morfometrik kepiting kelapa. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian memperlihatkan bahwa kepiting kelapa hadir dalam kondisi tertentu dan dipengaruhi oleh kondisi lingkungannya. Habitat kepiting kelapa ini lebih menyukai tekstur tanah berpasir-lempung dengan suhu tanah antara 28-30°C dan kelembaban antara 70-90%. Curah hujan, pH tanah, dan vegetasi sekitar habitat Birgus latro L. mempengaruhi kehidupannya seperti ketersediaan sumber makanan dan tempat berlindung dari ancaman predator. Analisis morfometrik dan kelimpahan kepiting kelapa berdasarkan 4 stasiun pengamatan memperlihatkan bahwa rata-rata ukuran dan berat kepiting kelapa bervariasi yang dipengaruhi oleh lokasi habitatnya. Semakin dekat dari pemukiman masyarakat ukuran kelas panjang karapas kepiting kelapa semakin kecil, sebaliknya apabila kehidupan kepiting kelapa berada jauh dari pemukiman dan aktivitas manusia maka ukuran kelas panjang karapas kepiting kelapa akan semakin besar dan jumlah populasinya semakin banyak. Kelimpahan relatif memperlihatkan bahwa kepiting kelapa hampir tidak ditemukan pada malam hari tanpa umpan. Penelitian ini memiliki implikasi penting dalam pengelolaan ekosistem pesisir, khususnya dalam upaya konservasi kepiting kelapa dan habitat-habitatnya. Selain itu, penelitian ini juga dapat menjadi sumbangan pengetahuan dalam konteks ekologi kepiting kelapa secara lebih luas di wilayah Sulawesi Tenggara.
Estimation of Uplink Channels for Multiple Users Using Tensor Modeling in RIS-Aided MISO Communication
Authors: ŞENYUVA Rıfat Volkan
Published: November 2023

In this paper estimation of uplink channels using tensor modeling is addressed for multiple users in a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)-aided multiple-input single-output (MISO) communication. The coherence interval is divided into structured frames of pilot symbols transmitted by the users and pattern of phase shifts applied by the RIS in order to estimate the base station (BS)-RIS channels and the RIS-user’s channels. Estimation methods that use tensor modeling including Khatri-Rao Factorization (KRF) and bilinear alternating least squares (BALS) are applied to the signal model. Numerical results show that both KRF and BALS are superior to the LS estimator by 10 dB SNR for the correlated Rayleigh fading channel model.
Akut Rockwood Tip 5 Akromioklaviküler Eklem Çıkıklarında Uygulanan Çift Düğme İmplantı Tekniğinin Fonksiyonel ve Radyolojik Sonuçları
Authors: ALTUN Ozan , ERGİŞİ Yılmaz , USLU Mehmet Baran , ÖZDEMİR Erdi , DAŞAR Uygar
Published: November 2023

Amaç: Akut tip 5 akromioklavikular eklem çıkıklarında çift düğme implantı tekniğinin orta dönemde klinik, fonksi-yonel ve radyolojik sonuçlarını ortaya koymayı hedefledik.
Materyal ve metod: Kliniğimizde Ocak 2019- Haziran 2021 tarihleri arasında akromiyoklaviküler eklem çıkığı nedeniyle çift düğme implantı tekniği kullanılarak cerrahi tedavi edilmiş hastalar geriye dönük olarak tarandı. Son poliklinik kontrollerinde hastaların omuz radyografilerinden etkilenmemiş omuzda korakoklaviküler mesafeleri ile çift düğme implantı tekniği uygulanan omuzdaki korakoklaviküler mesafeleri ölçüldü. Aynı zamanda hastaların omuz radyografileri incelenerek redüksiyon kaliteleri ve akromioklaviküler eklemin Kellgren-Lawrence sınıflama-sına göre osteoartrit durumu not edildi. Hastaların son poliklinik kontrollerinde; ağrı durumları Visual Analog Score, fonksiyonel durumları Constant-Murley omuz skorlama sistemi kullanılarak değerlendirildi.
Bulgular: Çalışmaya 15’i erkek, 1’i kadın olmak üzere toplam 16 hasta dâhil edildi. Dâhil edilen hastaların yaş orta-laması 42,1 (19-66) idi. Ortalama takip süresi 28.0 (15-44) ay idi. Son poliklinik kontrolünde, etkilenmemiş omuzda ölçülen korakoklaviküler mesafe ortalama 7,7±1.0 mm , düğme implantı tekniği uygulanan omuzda ortalama kora-koklaviküler mesafe 8,4± 2.0 mm olarak ölçüldü. Redüksiyon kalitesi dağılımı; 1 hastada tip 4, 2 hastada tip 2, 1 hastada tip 3, 12 hastada ise tip 1 olarak görüldü. Hastalardan 1’inde evre 2 ve 2’sinde ise evre 3 olmak üzere toplam 3 hastada akromioklaviküler eklem osteoartriti gelişimi gözlenirken 13 hastada osteoartrit gelişimi gözlen-medi. Ameliyat sonrası son poliklinik kontrollerinde ortalama Visual analog ağrı skoru 1,3 (0-4), ortalama modifiye Constant skoru ise 86,1 (73-93) olarak ölçüldü.
Sonuç: Akut tip 5 akromioklaviküler eklem çıkıklarında uygulanan çift düğme implantı tekniğinin başarılı ve güvenli bir cerrahi prosedürdür.
ТЕОРЕТИЧНЕ ПІДГРУНТЯ ІНСТИТУЦІОНАЛЬНОГО РОЗВИТКУ ГРОМАДЯНСЬКОГО СУСПІЛЬСТВА
Authors: РАТУШНЯК В. В.
Published: November 2023

В статті приділяється увага теоретичному підґрунтю формування інституціонального розвитку громадянського суспільства. Актуалізація теми статті підтверджується необхідністю формування та розвитку сучасного українського громадянського суспільства діяльність якого впливає на численні сфери суспільного життя та розвиток держави в цілому. Матеріал статті деталізує складові інституціональних перетворень сучасного громадянського суспільства, поєднуючи демократію, права людини; політичну участь; боротьбу з корупцією; соціальну справедливість; екологічні питання; міжнародну співпрацю та культурний розвиток в єдиний необхідний механізм розвитку. Аналіз сучасних наукових розробок обраного напрямку дослідження свідчить про наявність великої кількості праць закордонних та вітчизняних вчених, в яких приділяється увага вирішенню проблем пов’язаних інституціональним розвитком громадянського суспільства. Враховуючи це, дана стаття є продовженням наукового пошуку вирішення зазначеної актуальної проблеми сучасності. Доведено необхідність дослідження сучасних викликів та тенденції у політиці та суспільстві, які сприяють розвитку більш динамічної та адаптивної політичної модернізації в різних країнах світу, що дало змогу з’ясувати необхідність інституціонального розвитку громадянського суспільства в умовах демократичної трансформації України В статті доведено, що мета та основні завдання інституціонального розвитку громадянського суспільства це удосконалення діяльності сучасних інститутів громадянського суспільства, що повинно привести до активного розвитку демократичної, правової соціальної держави, в якої члени громадянського суспільства об’єднуються для прийняття важливіших для держави рішень, захисту прав, свобод та інтересів громадян. В дослідженні визнана необхідність функціонування меланізмів управління для розвитку інститутів громадянського суспільства, метою роботи яких є досягнення спільного блага, що спрямовується на підвищення рівня соціально-економічного розвитку держави.