bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic carbon in surface sediments of Chaunskaya Bay (East Siberian Sea): results of pyrolytic analysis using the Rock-Eval method
Authors: Poltavskaya Natalina A. , Gershelis Elena V. , Charkin Aleksandr N. , Yaroshchuk Elena I. , Guseva Natalya V. , Semiletov Igor P.
Published: January 2024

Relevance. Dictated by the need to assess functioning of the biogeochemical regime of the Arctic region by studying geochemical properties of organic matter of bottom sediments on the example of the Chaunskaya Bay (East-Siberian Sea). Aim. To study the spatial variability of geochemical parameters of organic matter of bottom sediments of the Chaunskaya Bay using the Rock-Eval method, as well as to identify a possible relationship between the parameter TOC and the pelite fraction. Objects. Samples of bottom sediments of the Chaunskaya Bay (East Siberian Sea). Sampling took place in stages from three horizons (upper 0–2 cm, intermediate 2–5 cm, lower 5–10 cm) during a comprehensive scientific expedition to the R/V "Academician Oparin" in September–October 2020. Methods. Granulometric composition of bottom sediments was determined using the Analysette 22 NanoTec particle analyzer (Fritsch, Germany). The analysis of hydrocarbon compounds of organic matter was performed using pyrolytic analysis on the device (Rock Eval 6 Turbo of Vinci Technologies, France). Results. The results of pyrolytic analysis considered by the authors have shown that such factors as the primary productivity of the waters of the studied water area and the processes of erosion of the coastal zone play a decisive role in the formation of the composition of the TOC in bottom sediments of the Chaunskaya Bay. We also do not exclude the contribution of river runoff to the composition of the TOC in bottom sediments; however, we consider it small due to the insignificant inflow of river sediments into the waters of the studied area. The pyrolytic data obtained by us indicate that both the marine component (primary productivity) and the terrigenous component (erosion of the coastal complex) are present in the composition of the TOC in bottom sediments of the studied area.
AS IDEIAS POLÍTICAS DE CARLOS LACERDA NA TRANSIÇÃO DE 1945: anticomunismo e reformismo
Authors: MEDEIROS FABRÍCIO FERREIRA DE
Published: January 2024

O objetivo deste texto é analisar a participação de Carlos Lacerda na transição política de 1945, com destaque para as suas reflexões sobre o contexto histórico. Jornalista prestigiado no Rio de Janeiro, antigo Distrito Federal, Lacerda foi um dos maiores críticos do legado getulista e do apoio oferecido pelos comunistas a Vargas no início dos anos 1940. Porém, mais do que isso, é preciso atentar para o viés reformista presente em seu pensamento político, expresso na defesa de uma combinação entre bem-estar social, democracia e liberdade acomodada ao sistema capitalista. Salvo tais considerações, pautarei minha interpretação nos textos publicados por Carlos Lacerda nos jornais Correio da Manhã e Diário Carioca, entre 1945 e 1946, buscando compreender o contexto político e como o jornalista se posicionou nas disputas pelo poder.
Los paquetes deSolve y phaseR para la resolución numérica de Ecuaciones Diferenciales Ordinarias con R
Authors: Mosquera López Saulo
Published: January 2024

En el lenguaje R se han desarrollado paquetes específicos que posibilitan el tratamiento numérico de problemas de valor inicial para ecuaciones y sistemas de ecuaciones diferenciales. En particular, el paquete deSolve permite, entre otros, la solución numérica y gráfica de problemas de valor inicial para ecuaciones diferenciales ordinarias y el paquete phaseR el análisis cualitativo de sistemas autónomos de ecuaciones diferenciales ordinarias, en una y dos dimensiones. El propósito de este artículo es el de ilustrar el uso del paquete deSolve con una modificación de la ecuación logística y el sistema de Chen y el paquete phaseR con un modelo que generaliza la ley de Hooke.
Supporting teacher noticing based on student mathematical thinking through video club
Authors: ÖZDEMİR BAKİ Gülşah , AKGÜN Levent
Published: January 2024

Video clubs, which are accepted as one of the video-based professional development models, are environments where teachers come together to analyze class videos and develop discourses based on these analyses. This study aims to examine the development of secondary school mathematics teachers' skills to notice student mathematical thinking through a video club design. The study was conducted in the context of a video club with five secondary mathematics teachers that lasted for 12 weeks. The data collection tools of the research, which use the case study from qualitative research designs are video club discussion meetings, written notes taken by teachers while monitoring video lessons and reports containing reflective opinion. The data obtained were analyzed in a theoretical framework. The findings reveal that teachers participating in the video club process focused more on student thinking in the actor dimension, adopted an interpretive analytical approach based on student mathematical thinking in the following weeks and presented pedagogical suggestions based on student thinking by detailing their interpretations. In addition, the findings indicate that the transitions between dimensions that teachers noticed may be related. Research results support that the video club is an efficient process for improving teachers' noticing skills.
Da cor da pele ao consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes
Authors: Zanardo Maria Luiza Rosa , Fonseca Gustavo Schemer da , Gomes Caroline de Barros
Published: January 2024

Introdução: A Insegurança Alimentar (IA) faz-se quando o acesso aos alimentos é inadequado em quantidade e qualidade. A problemática se alavancou com a pandemia de COVID-19, acometendo novos indivíduos e intensificando a realidade daqueles que já a enfrentavam. Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre as características sociodemográficas de indivíduos em IA e seu consumo alimentar durante a pandemia. Métodos: Pesquisa transversal realizada entre maio a agosto de 2021 em Avaré-SP com usuários da Atenção Primária à Saúde. Aplicou-se um questionário socioeconômico, a Escala Brasileira de Insegurança Alimentar e os marcadores de consumo alimentar da Vigilância de Fatores de Risco e Proteção para Doenças Crônicas por Inquérito Telefônico (VIGITEL). Modelos de regressão logística foram utilizados para investigação das associações no programa SPSS v.20.0, considerando p < 0,05. Resultados: Dos 207 entrevistados, 57,0 % estavam em algum nível de IA. Quanto aos marcadores, 62,8 % não possuíam consumo adequado de frutas e 55,1 % não ingeriram adequadamente legumes e verduras, sendo que a situação de IA reduziu também as chances de consumo adequado desses grupos alimentares. Baixos níveis de escolaridade aumentaram as chances de estar em IA, enquanto aposentadoria e cor de pele branca foram identificados como fatores de proteção. Discussão: A situação de IA refletiu negativamente no consumo alimentar de frutas, verduras e legumes e sua prevalência foi maior em indivíduos pardos e pretos. A garantia do Direito Humano à Alimentação Adequada deve ser pauta prioritária de políticas públicas, com profissionais de saúde capacitados para identificação e proposição de ações efetivas.
Análise da mortalidade fetal em uma maternidade terciária do estado do Ceará, Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Ayane Layne de Sousa , Oliveira Viviane de Sousa , Pessôa Neto José Armando , Miranda Luisa Rolim , Feitosa Francisco Edson de Lucena , Paiva Jordana Parente
Published: January 2024

Objetivos: Identificar as principais causas de mortalidade fetal em uma maternidade terciária do estado do Ceará. Metodologia: Coorte retrospectivo descritivo com análise de prontuários no período de 17 de agosto a dezembro de 2018 na Maternidade Escola Assis Chateaubriand em Fortaleza-CE. Foi utilizada a plataforma Redcap para consolidação dos dados. Resultados: Foram avaliados um total de 48 casos, sendo identificadas 39,6% de causa materna, 33,3% de causa fetal, 12,5% dos óbitos como causa indeterminada, 10,4% devido alteração de líquido amniótico, 4,2% de causa placentária. O principal fator relacionado à causa materna foi doença hipertensiva, representando 73,7% dos casos; diabetes 10,5%; lupus, uso de drogas e outras causas representaram 5,3% cada. No presente estudo, foram identificados 58,7% de óbitos fetais tardios, quando existe boa vitalidade fetal. Logo, se os riscos tivessem sido detectados precocemente, a idade gestacional da resolução poderia ter sido melhor programada, evitando o desfecho negativo. Conclusão: Óbito fetal é um importante marcador de qualidade de serviço. Pré-natal de qualidade e assistência hospitalar adequada diminuiriam as taxas de óbitos evitáveis. Mesmo existindo profilaxia na gestação, as síndromes hipertensivas, por exemplo, ainda são uma importante causa de óbito fetal. A mortalidade fetal é um problema de saúde pública e pode estar relacionada a uma má assistência à saúde.
Ritonavir reverses resistance to docetaxel and cabazitaxel in prostate cancer cells with acquired resistance to docetaxel
Authors: van der Putten Eric , Wosikowski Katja , Beijnen Jos H. , Imre Gábor , Freund Colin R.
Published: January 2024

Aim: Docetaxel is a microtubule-stabilizing drug used for the treatment of several cancers, including prostate cancer. Resistance to docetaxel can either occur through intrinsic resistance or develop under therapeutic pressure, i.e., acquired resistance. A possible explanation for the occurrence of acquired resistance to docetaxel is increased drug efflux via P-glycoprotein (P-gp) drug transporters.

Methods: We have generated docetaxel-resistant cell lines DU-145DOC10 and 22Rv1DOC8 by exposing parental cell lines DU-145DOC and 22Rv1 to increasing levels of docetaxel. Gene expression levels between DU-145DOC10 and 22Rv1DOC8 were compared with those of their respective originator cell lines. Both parental and resistant cell lines were treated with the taxane drugs docetaxel and cabazitaxel in combination with the P-gp/CYP3A4 inhibitor ritonavir and the P-gp inhibitor elacridar.

Results: In the docetaxel-resistant cell lines DU-145DOC10 and 22Rv1DOC8, the ABCB1 (P-gp) gene was highly up-regulated. Expression of the P-gp protein was also significantly increased in the docetaxel-resistant cell lines in a Western blotting assay. The addition of ritonavir to docetaxel resulted in a return of the sensitivity to docetaxel in the DU-145DOC10 and 22Rv1DOC8 to a level similar to the sensitivity in the originator cells. We found that these docetaxel-resistant cell lines could also be re-sensitized to cabazitaxel in a similar manner. In a Caco-2 P-gp transporter assay, functional inhibition of P-gp-mediated transport of docetaxel with ritonavir was demonstrated.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that ritonavir restores sensitivity to both docetaxel and cabazitaxel in docetaxel-resistant cell lines, most likely by inhibiting P-gp-mediated drug efflux.
Association of a Global Invasive Pest Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) with the Local Parasitoids: Prospects for a New Approach in Biological Control
Authors: Nurkomar Ihsan , Putra Ichsan Luqmana Indra , Buchori Damayanti , Setiawan Fajar
Published: January 2024

Spodopotera frugiperda is a worldwide invasive pest that has caused major economic damage. According to classical biological control theory, natural enemies that can control invasive pests come from the area of origin as the pests that have gone through coadaptation processes. However, the new association’s approach suggests that local natural enemies are equally capable to control invasive pests. Due to the lack of data on the association of S. frugiperda and local natural enemies, research was conducted through a rapid survey to study the population density of S. frugiperda in Yogyakarta, Indonesia and to study the diversity of parasitoid associated with S. frugiperda. The results showed the difference in S. frugiperda population and parasitism rate, with 15 parasitoid species associated with S. frugiperda. Four egg parasitoids, eight larval parasitoids, and three pupal parasitoids were found to be associated with S. frugiperda for three years after it was first discovered in Indonesia. A new association was found between S. frugiperda and three parasitoid species, consisting of two egg parasitoids (Platygasteridaesp.01 and Platygasteridaesp.02) and a larval parasitoid (Eupelmidaesp.01). A relatively new association was found between S. frugiperda and two larval parasitoids (Coccygidium sp. and Stenobracon sp.), and an existing association was found between seven species including an egg parasitoid Telenomus remus, three larval parasitoids (Cotesia sp., Microplitis sp., Campoletis sp.), and three pupal parasitoids (Brachymeria lasus, B. femorata, and Charops sp.). Telenomus remus is the most dominant parasitoid, with a higher abundance and parasitism rate. This study also reported the first findings of the association of S. frugiperda with the larval parasitoid Megaselia scalaris in Indonesia. The result suggests another method for biological control using the new association approach since local natural enemies can foster quick adaptation to invasive pests.
Maximum Ismail’s Second Entropy Formalism of Heavy-Tailed Queues with Hurst Exponent Heuristic Mean Queue Length Combined with Potential Applications of Hurst Exponent to Social Computing and Connected Health
Authors: A Mageed Dr Ismail
Published: January 2024

The theory of Ismail's non-extensive maximum entropy solution (NME) is described in detail. It is used as an inductive inference technique for heavy-tailed queues with a non-robust mean queue length and a non-extensive "long-range" interaction. In our novel method, we substitute the non-robust mean queue length for the conventional Pollaczeck-Khinchin mean queue length. In other words, the new non-extensivity parameter q will be included in the resulting state probability function. Numerical portraits are provided to capture the influential effect of the derived formalism, , on the stable M//1 queue with heavy tails. More potentially, some applications of Hurst Exponent to social computing and connected health are provided. Conclusion with some challenging open problems and possible future research pathways are given.
In Vivo and In Vitro Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of the Synthetic Peptide LyeTx I mn∆K, Derived From Lycosa erythrognatha Spider Toxin, Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Authors: Vieira Ana Paula Gonçalves Coelho , De Souza Amanda Neves , Lima William Gustavo , Brito Julio Cesar Moreira , Simião Daniela Carolina , Gonçalves Lucas Vinicius Ribeiro , Cordeiro Lídia Pereira Barbosa , Scoaris Denise de Oliveira , Fernandes Simone Odília Antunes , Resende Jarbas Magalhães , Bechinger Burkhard , Verly Rodrigo Moreira , De Lima Maria Elena
Published: January 2024

The urgent global health challenge posed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections demands effective solutions. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent promising tools of research of new antibacterial agents and LyeTx I mn∆K, a short synthetic peptide based on the Lycosa erythrognatha spider venom, is a good representative. This study focused on analyzing some antimicrobial activities of LyeTx I mn∆K, including minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations, synergy and resensitization assays, lysis activity, the effect on biofilm, and the bacterial death curve in MRSA. Additionally, its characterization was conducted through isothermal titration calorimetry, dynamic light scattering, calcein release, and finally, efficacy in a mice wound model. The peptide demonstrating remarkable efficacy against planktonic cells and biofilms of MRSA, outperforms vancomycin in terms of rapid bactericidal action and anti-biofilm effects. The mechanism involves significant membrane damage. Interactions with bacterial model membranes, including those with lysylphosphatidylglycerol (LysylPOPG) modifications, highlight versatility and selectivity of this compound. Also, the peptide has the ability to sensitize resistant bacteria to conventional antibiotics, showing potential for combinatory therapy. Furthermore, using an in vivo model, was showed that a formulated gel containing the peptide proved superior to vancomycin in treating MRSA-induced wound in mice. Together the results highlight LyeTx I mnΔK as a promising prototype for the development of effective therapeutic strategies against superficial MRSA infections.
Bayesian Neural Networks for Estimating Chlorophyll-A Concentration Based on Satellite-Derived Ocean Colour Observations
Authors: Hammoud Mohamad Abed El Rahman , Papagiannopoulos Nikolaos , Brewin Robert J.W. , Raitsos Dionysios E. , Knio Omar , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: January 2024

This study explores the use of Bayesian Neural Networks (BNNs) for estimating chlorophyll-a concentration ([CHL-a]) from remotely sensed data. The BNN model enables uncertainty quantification, offering additional layers of information compared to traditional ocean colour models. An extensive in situ bio-optical dataset is utilized, generated by merging 27 data sources across the world’s oceans. The BNN model demonstrates remarkable capability in capturing mesoscale features and ocean circulation patterns, providing comprehensive insights into spatial and temporal variations in [CHL-a] across diverse marine ecosystems. In comparison to established ocean colour algorithms, such as Ocean Colour 4 (OC4), the BNN shows comparable performance in terms of correlation coefficients, errors, and biases when compared with the in situ data. The BNN, however, further provides critical information about the distribution of [CHL-a], which can be used to assess uncertainties in the prediction. Moreover, the BNN model’s ability to provide more information for coastal waters, especially with higher spatial resolution imagery, offers valuable advantages for marine research and management. By quantifying uncertainty, the model builds confidence in [CHL-a] predictions, even in regions with limited data coverage. This is reflected by the spread in the model predictions, where the BNN can detect a range of uncertainty bounds that reflect confidence in the retrievals. Introducing BNNs as probabilistic ocean colour models represents a significant advancement, enabling more accurate and reliable predictions of [CHL-a] in the global oceans.
The Impact of Non-pharmaceutical Interventions on COVID-19 in Workers and Residents of Nursing Homes in Geneva: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Menon Lakshmi Krishna , Wisniak Ania , Regard Simon , Stringhini Silvia , Guessous Idris , Balavoine Jean-François , Kherad Omar
Published: January 2024

Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), including social distancing, wearing personal protective equipment, and lockdown measures, have been at the forefront of outbreak control in nursing homes. We used a mixed methodology to assess which NPIs nursing homes in the canton of Geneva, Switzerland, followed for their staff and residents during the first wave of the pandemic, between March 1, 2020 and June 1, 2020. For the qualitative component, we interviewed the attending physicians and/or director of each nursing home. Based on in-vivo codes, NPIs for nursing home workers and residents in each nursing home were thematically classified as: maximally restrictive, moderately restrictive, and minimally restrictive. In the quantitative component, we calculated incident rate ratios (IRR) for infection between the three levels of COVID-19-related measures taken in these nursing homes. We found an equal distribution of maximally (n=4), moderately (n=4), and minimally (n=4) restrictive NPIs. The extent of restriction did not show to be significantly associated with the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 cases among residents (maximally restrictive IRR = 3.90, 95%CI 0.82-45.54, p = 0.184; moderately restrictive IRR = 3.55, 95%CI 0.75-41.42, p = 0.212 ; minimally restrictive IRR = reference). Variabilities in NPIs adopted by nursing homes, and the number of COVID-19 cases appear to be randomly affected.
The Impact of Solid Waste on the Growth of Helianthus annuus and Helianthus Giant for Soil Phytoremediation
Authors: Golfinopoulos Spyridon K. , Chatzilaris Eleftherios , Kalavrouziotis Ioannis K. , Varnavas Soterios P.
Published: January 2024

An investigation studied the impact of various solid waste types on Helianthus plant growth, encompassing both Helianthus annuus and Helianthus giant. Common sunflowers (Helianthus) were cultivated to assess the influence of soil substrates with differing compositions and solid waste concentrations on plant growth and morphology. Materials included fireplace ash, oil burner dust, forge dust, land of Milos (pozzolan), and land of Milos mixed with olive core. The aim was to determine if Helianthus could remediate soil contaminated by these wastes. Results re-vealed plant growth relied on substrate quality and quantity. High concentrations of fireplace ash and oil burner dust were detrimental, while forge dust, land of Milos, and olive core combinations supported satisfactory growth and improved resistance. Generally, Helianthus annuus outper-formed Helianthus giant. These findings highlight Helianthus' potential for soil restoration and decontamination under specific substrate conditions concerning solid waste type and concentration.
Adsorption and Desorption Behavior of Partially Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide on Longmaxi Shale
Authors: Li Jun , Luo Tao tao , Cheng Ting ting , Lei Ying , Xing Meng Ya , Pan Bing , Fu Xiao
Published: January 2024

Large-scale volumetric fracturing is generally used during shale gas development. The return rate of fracturing fluid is low, and a large amount of slickwater will be retained in the reservoir. The adsorption and desorption of partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM), an additive commonly used in slickwater, on the surface of shale was studied using Longmaxi Shale from the Sichuan Basin. The experimental results showed that the mass ratio of the HPAM solution to shale reached saturation adsorption at 20:1 when the concentration of HPAM solution was 1000 mg/L and 25:1 when the concentration of HPAM solution was 500 mg/L. The mass ratio of the HPAM solution to shale was fixed at 25:1, and the adsorption equilibrium was reached at a HPAM concentration of 1000 mg/L when the aqueous solution temperature was 30°C and 800 mg/L when the aqueous solution temperature was 60°C. The Langmuir adsorption model yielded a better fit than the Freundlich adsorption model. The adsorption equilibrium time at 30°C was at 60 min for a HPAM concentration of 500 mg/L, while for a concentration of 1000 mg/L, it was at 90 min. The adsorption equilibrium time at 60°C was 40 min for a HPAM concentration of 500 mg/L, whereas it was 60 min for a HPAM concentration at 1000 mg/L. The pseudo-second order kinetics model yielded better fits than the pseudo-first order kinetics model. The adsorption of HPAM on shale was strong, and the adsorbed HPAM resembled cobwebs adhering to the shale surface. HPAM on the surface of shale after adsorption could resist the desorption capacity of water. However, when the amount of adsorbed HPAM on shale increased significantly, the amount of residual HPAM on the surface of the shale decreased rapidly during desorption in deionized water. The desorption of HPAM on the shale surface followed a modified desorption model. The higher the concentration of HPAM adsorbed on the shale surface was, the easier it was to desorb, the easier it was to be removed from the shale.
On the Kullback-Leibler Divergence Formalism (Kldf) of the Stable Mg1 Queue Manifold, Its Information Geometric Structure and Its Matrix Exponential
Authors: A Mageed Dr Ismail
Published: January 2024

The paper explores the Kullback-Leibler divergence formalism (KLDF) applied to the stable MG1 queue manifold. It explores the analytic forms of state probabilities and their maximization based on entropy functionals, subject to normalization and mean value constraints. The credibility of KLDF is justified through consistency axioms, and the application of Rényi's and Tsallis's formalisms on a stable M/G/1 queue is examined, resulting in novel state probabilities and insights into information theory of Queue Learning.
Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Mpox in Cisgender and Transgender Women and Non-Binary Individuals Assigned to Female Sex at Birth: A Comprehensive, Critical Global Perspective
Authors: Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Woldegerima Woldegebriel Assefa , Wu Jianhong , Converti Manlio , Szarpak Lukasz , Crapanzano Andrea , Odeh Marwan , Farah Raymond , Khamisy-Farah Rola
Published: January 2024

The 2022-2023 Mpox multi-country outbreak, identified in over 110 WHO Member States, revealed a predominant impact on cisgender men, particularly those engaging in sex with men, while less frequently affecting women. This disparity prompted a focused investigation into the gender-specific characteristics of Mpox infections, particularly among women, to address a notable knowledge gap. This review systematically gathers and analyzes scientific literature and case reports concerning Mpox infections in women, covering a broad geographical spectrum including regions such as Buenos Aires, Brazil, Northern California, Colombia, Nigeria, Europe, Vietnam, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States. The analysis delves into various aspects of Mpox in women, including clinical features, epidemiology, psychological impacts, preparedness strategies, and case studies, with particular attention to pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions. Empirical data from multiple studies underscore the unique epidemiological and clinical patterns of Mpox in women. In the United States, a small percentage of Mpox cases were reported among cisgender women, with a notable portion involving non-Hispanic Black or African American, non-Hispanic White, and Hispanic or Latino ethnicities. The primary transmission route was identified as sexual or close intimate contact, with the virus predominantly manifesting on the legs, arms, and genital areas. Further, a study in Spain highlighted significant disparities in diagnosis delays, transmission modes, and clinical manifestations between genders, indicating a different risk profile and disease progression in women. Additionally, a case from Vietnam linked to a new Mpox sublineage in women emphasizes the role of women in the transmission dynamics and the importance of genomic monitoring. This review emphasizes the necessity for inclusive surveillance and research to fully understand Mpox dynamics across diverse population groups, including women. Highlighting gender and sexual orientation in public health responses is crucial for an effective approach to managing the spread and impact of the disease. The findings advocate for a gender-diverse assessment in health services and further research to explore the nuances of Mpox transmission, behavior, and progression among different groups, thereby enhancing the global response to Mpox and similar public health challenges.
Role of ADAMTS13, von Willebrand factor cleaving protease, in liver ischemia-reperfusion injury: Proposal of hepatic thrombotic microangiopathy
Authors: Hirao Hirofumi , Kubota Toyonari
Published: January 2024

Although a disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type-1 motifs 13 (ADAMTS13) serve as the cleaving protease of vWF-multimers, its role in liver ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), as well as partial liver transplantation (pLT), remains unknown. First, ADAMTS13 deficient mice were subjected to IRI to investigate the impact on hepatic IRI. Hepatic IRI significantly decreased serum ADAMTS13 activity, while simultaneously up-regulated intrahepatic vWF expression. Ablation of ADAMTS13 aggravated liver IRI by promoting platelet aggregation and disturbing microcirculation in the liv-er accompanied by exacerbated transaminase release and enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokine/chemokines levels. Adjunctive supplementation of recombinant ADAMTS13 (rADAMTS13) improved hepatic microcirculatory failure observed in ADAMTS13-null mice. Immunohistochemistry revealed massive platelet aggregation within hepatic micro-vasculatures in ADAMTS13-null mice, which was attenuated by rADAMTS13 treatment. Consequently, peripheral platelet counts, transaminase release, and pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines levels deteriorated in ADAMTS13-null mice, while ameliorated by rADAMTS13 administration. Notably, rADAMTS13 improved IRI-induced pathologies even in WT mice compared with those without. Next, we tested rADAMTS13 in the rat pLT model. Similarly, in rat pLT, ADAMTS13 supplementation attenuated the aforementioned pathologies observed in the experimental mouse model. In conclusion, ADAMTS13 plays a pivotal role in alleviating both hepatic microcirculation and inflammatory responses, thus providing a novel therapeutic approach against LT-related stress.
Influence of the Gain-Bandwidth of the Front-End Amplifier on the Performance of a QEPAS Sensor
Authors: Lombardi Luigi , Matarrese Gianvito , Marzocca Cristoforo
Published: January 2024

The quartz tuning fork used as an acoustic sensor in Quartz-Enhanced Photo-Acoustic Spectroscopy gas detection systems is usually read-out by means of a transimpedance preamplifier, based on a low-noise operational amplifier closed in a feedback loop. The gain-bandwidth product of the operational amplifier used in the circuit is a key parameter which must be properly chosen to guarantee that the circuit works as expected. Here we demonstrate that, if the value of this parameter is not sufficiently large, the response of the preamplifier exhibits a peak at a frequency which does not coincide with the series resonant frequency of the quartz tuning fork. If this peak frequency is selected for modulating the laser bias current and is also used as reference frequency of the lock-in amplifier, a penalty results in terms of signal to noise ratio at the output of the QEPAS sensor. This worsens the performance of the gas sensing system in terms of ultimate detection limits. We show that this happens when the front-end preamplifier of the quartz tuning fork is based on some amplifier models that are typically used for such application, both when the integration time of the lock-in amplifier filter is long, to boost noise rejection, and when it is short, in order to comply with a relevant measurement rate.
Sound of Surveillance: Enhancing Machine Learning-Driven Drone Detection with Advanced Acoustic Augmentation
Authors: Kümmritz Sebastian
Published: January 2024

In response to the growing challenges in drone security and airspace management, this study introduces an advanced drone classifier, capable of detecting and categorizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) based on acoustic signatures. Utilizing a comprehensive database of drone sounds across EU-defined classes (C0 to C3), this research leverages machine learning (ML) techniques for effective UAV identification. The study primarily focuses on the impact of data augmentation methods—pitch shifting, time delays, harmonic distortion, and ambient noise integration—on classifier performance. These techniques aim to mimic real-world acoustic variations, thus enhancing the classifier's robustness and practical applicability. Results indicate that moderate levels of augmentation significantly improve classification accuracy. However, excessive application of these methods can negatively affect performance. The study concludes that sophisticated acoustic data augmentation can substantially enhance ML-driven drone detection, providing a versatile and efficient tool for managing drone-related security risks. This research contributes to UAV detection technology, presenting a model that not only identifies but also categorizes drones, underscoring its potential for diverse operational environments.
A Qualitative and Comparative Performance Assessment of Logically Centralized SDN Controllers by Mininet Emulator
Authors: Sheikh Mohammad Nowsin Amin , Hwang I Shyan , Raza Muhammad Saibtain , Ab-Rahman Mohammad Syuhaimi
Published: January 2024

Software-defined networking (SDN) divides a traditional network into a programmable data plane and a centralized control plane. This technology is expected to transform traditional network companies that provide flexible and intelligent network operations. The core component utilized to oversee every data plane action is the controller in the control plane. In order to achieve optimal performances, the controller’s performance and capabilities are therefore crucial. There are lots of controller research available in existing literature. Nevertheless, no qualitative comparison study of OpenFlow-enabled distributed but logically centralized controllers exists for them. This article also includes a quantitative investigation of the performance of several distributed but logically centralized SDN controllers in custom network scenarios using Mininet, as well as a thorough qualitative comparison of them. More precisely, we give a qualitative evaluation of their attributes and classify and categorize 13 distributed but logically centralized SDN controllers according to their capabilities. Additionally, we offer a comprehensive SDN emulation tool called Mininet-based SDN controller performance assessment in this study. Using six performance metrics—bandwidth, round- trip time, delay, jitter, packet loss, and throughput—this work also assesses five distributed but logically centralized controllers against two custom network scenarios (uniform and non-uniform host distribution). Our investigation shows that the OpenDayLight controller performs the best across all performance criteria, with the exception of delay, packet loss and round trip time, where the Ryu controller excels. In the entire experiment, the HyperFlow and ONOS controller performs the worst in terms of all performance metrics. Finally, we discuss detailed research findings on the performance. These experimental results provide a decision-making guideline when selecting a controller.
Enhancing Stress Detection: A Comprehensive Approach through rPPG Analysis and Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Fontes Laura , Machado Pedro , Vinkemeier Doratha , Yahaya Salisu , Bird Jordan J. , Ihianle Isibor Kennedy
Published: January 2024

Stress has emerged as a major concern in modern society, significantly impacting human health and well-being. Statistical evidence underscores the extensive social influence of stress, especially in terms of work-related stress and associated healthcare costs. This work addresses the critical need for accurate stress detection, emphasising its far-reaching effects on health and social dynamics. Focusing on remote stress monitoring, this work proposes an efficient deep learning framework to discern stress from facial videos. In contrast to research on wearable devices, this paper investigates the application of *dl for stress detection based on *rppg. The methodology involves selecting suitable *dl models (*lstm, *gru, *1dcnn), optimising hyperparameters, and investigating augmentation techniques. 1D-CNNv1 model achieved the best performance compared to other approaches, particularly with augmentation techniques such as linear interpolation and white noise, achieving a stress classification accuracy of 95.83% while maintaining excellent computational efficiency. The experimental results demonstrate the use of *dl for stress detection based on *rppg, with the potential to make significant contributions to the international standard in the field.
Study of the Radiation Impact of a Uranium Mining Enterprise on the Surrounding Soil and Flora in Turkestan Region
Authors: Sartayeva Khalima , Baiseitova Nurila , Khalikova Gulmira , Kurmanbay Usen , Alimkulova Gulnara , Anarbayeva Akerke
Published: January 2024

The research aimed at the ecological assessment of the environment around uranium mining enterprises in the Turkestan region. The authors examined the state of the soil and vegetation for 2021-2023, their chemical composition and the effects of radiation. Excesses of background radiation were detected by alpha and beta studies. To study the structural organization of plant communities, we conducted floristic studies in the areas immediately adjacent to NAC “Kazatomprom” enterprises. The general habitus, size, number and shape of vegetative parts of plants were taken into account as comparison parameters. The flora growing in the study areas of the Suzak district of the region, which is distinguished by its uniqueness and narrow relevance to the ecological conditions of the area, was taken as biological objects of study. To determine the ecological state of the adjacent territories of NAC “Kazatomprom” and for physical, chemical and taxonomic analyses, 78 soil samples and 37 plant samples were obtained. The studied samples were taken near settlements N, B and S, which are closest to the territories of NAC “Kazatomprom”.
Linking Entrepreneurship to Productivity: Developing a Composite Indicator for Farm-Level Innovation in UK Agriculture with Secondary Data
Authors: Gadanakis Yiorgos , Campos-González Jorge , Jones Philip
Published: January 2024

In agriculture, the intricate relationship between innovation, productivity, and entrepreneurship is underexplored. Despite the widely recognised role of innovation in driving productivity, concrete indicators and comprehensive farm-level studies are lacking. This research aims to unravel this complexity by exploring the impact of innovation, specifically in agricultural entrepreneurship, on transformative changes in farm productivity. Using a two-stage analysis with the Malmquist Index (MI) of total factor productivity (TFP) on cereal farms from the Farm Business Survey (FBS) over 11 years, the study identifies innovators and, it assesses changes in productivity, technical efficiency, and economic efficiency. The second stage decomposes the MI to understand factors enabling innovation, including changes in technology scale. Objectives include a literature review to map innovation variables, integrating FBS data for validation and assessing productivity impacts from asset enhancements and changes in farming scale. Results reveal significant productivity variation and a moderate overall improvement. Future research directions emphasize expanded data collection on managerial behaviours and technology investments' role in efficiency frontier shifts. The study concludes by emphasising nuanced agricultural policies that leverage farmers' knowledge for innovation through enhanced management efficiency. It advocates for a departure from the 'bigger is better' mentality, proposing educational programs and support services to encourage informed decision-making. This forward-looking approach aims to inform future policies and enhance understanding of the intricate dynamics between agricultural innovation, productivity, and entrepreneurship.
Unification of Mind and Matter through Hierarchical Extension of Cognition: A New Framework for Adaptation of Living Systems
Authors: Nakajima Toshiyuki
Published: January 2024

Living systems must solve the problem of realizing their environment to act appropriately to maintain external relationships and internal order for survival and reproduction. This problem is a biological version of the philosophical enigma of how the self can escape solipsism. This study develops a comprehensive model to solve this adaptation problem. LSs must be composed of material entities that have the property of detecting their external states. The detection of the outside is conceptualized as “cognition,” a related state change that occurs at three levels of nested hierarchy: physical, chemical, and semiotic cognitions. Any entity that cognizes the surroundings is a “cognizer.” The hierarchical extension of cognition to all levels of the world provides a monistic view that only cognizers exist. Semiotic cognition is essential for the emergence and evolution of life. Living systems invented semiotic cognitions based on physical and chemical cognitions to manage the probability distribution of events that occur to them. This study proposes a theoretical model in which semiotic cognition is an adaptive process in which inverse causality operations produce particular internal states as symbols that signify hidden external states. This operation makes the living systems aware of the external world.
Advancements in Photovoltaic Cell Materials: Silicon, Organic, and Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Machín Abniel , Márquez Francisco
Published: January 2024

The evolution of photovoltaic cells is intrinsically linked to advancements in the materials from which they are fabricated. This review paper provides an in-depth analysis of the latest developments in silicon-based, organic, and perovskite solar cells, which are at the forefront of photovoltaic research. We scrutinize the unique characteristics, advantages, and limitations of each material class, emphasizing their contributions to efficiency, stability, and commercial viability. Silicon-based cells are explored for their enduring relevance and recent innovations in crystalline structures. Organic photovoltaic cells are examined for their flexibility and potential for low-cost production, while perovskites are highlighted for their remarkable efficiency gains and ease of fabrication. The paper also addresses the challenges of material stability, scalability, and environmental impact, offering a balanced perspective on the current state and future potential of these material technologies.
Surface Topography, Microbial Adhesion, and Immune Responses in Silicone Mammary Implant-Associated Capsular Fibrosis
Authors: Schoberleitner Ines , Baier Leoni , Lackner Michaela , Zenz Lisa-Maria , Coraca-Huber Debora C. , Ullmer Wendy , Damerun Annabelle , Faserl Klaus , Sigl Stephan , Steinkellner Theresia , Winkelmann Selina , Sarg Bettina , Egle Daniel , Brunner Christine , Wolfram Dolores
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women globally, often necessitating mastectomy and subsequent breast reconstruction. Silicone mammary implants (SMIs) play a pivotal role in breast reconstruction, yet their interaction with the host immune system and microbiome remains poorly understood. This study investigates the impact of SMI surface topography on host antimicrobial responses, wound proteome dynamics, and microbial colonization. Biological samples were col-lected from ten human patients undergoing breast reconstruction with SMIs. Mass spectrometry profiles were analyzed for acute and chronic wound proteomes, revealing a nuanced interplay between topography and antimicrobial respondseproteins. 16S rRNA sequencing assessed mi-crobiome dynamics, unveiling topography-specific variations in microbial composition. Surface topography alterations influenced wound proteome composition. Microbiome analysis revealed heightened diversity around rougher SMIs, emphasizing topography-dependent microbial inva-sion. In vitro experiments confirmed staphylococcal adhesion, growth, and biofilm formation on SMI surfaces, with increased texture correlating positively with bacterial colonization. This comprehensive investigation highlights the intricate interplay between SMI topography, wound proteome dynamics, and microbial transmission. The findings contribute to understanding host-microbe interactions on SMI surfaces, essential for optimizing clinical applications and minimizing complications in breast reconstruction.
An Improved Skin Lesion Classification Using a Hybrid Approach with Active Contour Snake Model and Lightweight Attention-Guided Capsule Networks
Authors: Behara Kavita , Bhero Ernest , Agee John Terhile
Published: January 2024

Skin cancer is a prevalent type of malignancy on a global scale, and the early and accurate diag-nosis of this condition is of utmost importance for the survival of patients. The clinical assessment of cutaneous lesions is a crucial aspect of medical practice, although it encounters several obsta-cles, such as prolonged waiting time and misinterpretation. The intricate nature of skin lesions, coupled with variations in appearance and texture, presents substantial barriers to accurate clas-sification. As such, skilled clinicians often struggle to differentiate benign moles from early ma-lignant tumors in skin images. Although deep learning-based approaches such as convolution neural networks have made significant improvements, their stability and generalization continue to confront difficulties, and their performance in accurately delineating lesion borders, capturing refined spatial connections among features, and using contextual information for classification is suboptimal. To address these limitations, we propose a novel approach for skin lesion classification which combines snake models of Active Contour (AC) Segmentation, ResNet50 for feature ex-traction and a Capsule Network with a fusion of lightweight attention mechanisms, to attain the different feature channels and spatial regions within feature maps, enhance the feature discrimi-nation, and improve accuracy. We employed the Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD) optimization algorithm to optimize the model's parameters. The proposed model is implemented on publicly available datasets, namely HAM10000 and ISIC 2020. The experimental results showed that the proposed model achieved an accuracy of 98% and AUC-ROC of 97.3%, showcasing substantial potential in terms of effective model generalization compared to existing state-of-the-art (SOTA) approaches. These results highlight the potential for our approach to reshape automated derma-tological diagnosis and provide a helpful tool for medical practitioners.
A Certificateless Verifiable Bilinear Pair Free Conjunctive Keyword Search Encryption Scheme for IoMT
Authors: Long Weifeng , Zeng Jiwen , Wu Yaying , Gao Yan , Zhang Hui
Published: January 2024

The Internet of Medical Things(IoMT) has powerful cloud computing ability and efficient data collection ability, which can improve the accuracy and convenience of medical work. As most communications are over open networks, data should encrypted before uploading to ensure the confidentiality of sensitive user data. Searching for encrypted data has become a challenging problem. Public key Encryption with Keyword Search (PEKS) supports the search of encrypted data and provides data privacy protection. PEKS has become a trendy technology, but PEKS still has the following problems: 1. The cloud server, as a semi-honest but curious third party, is likely to return some wrong search results to save computing and bandwidth resources. 2. The single keyword search inevitably produces irrelevant results, wasting computing and bandwidth resources. 3. Most PEKS schemes use bilinear pairing, so the computational efficiency is relatively low. 4. PEKS schemes based on Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) or identity-based cryptography inevitably face problems with certificate management or key escrow. 5. Most PEKS schemes face serious security threats such as Keyword Guessing Attacks (KGA) and File Injection Attacks (FIA). To solve the above problems, we propose a new certificateless verifiable bilinear pair-free conjunctive keyword search encryption scheme(CLVPFCKS) for IoMT using multi-signature.
Messages from the Winners
Authors:   Editorial Office
Published: January 2024

Message from the Winner

Fumihiko Imamura

Message from the Winner

Ryohei Kato

Message from the Winner

Chun-Hao Shao

Message from the Winner

Pei-Chun Shao

Message from the Winner

Fang-Ming Kuo

Message from the Winner

Reo Kimura