bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of optical tweezer technology reveals that PfEBA and PfRH ligands, not PfMSP1, play a central role in Plasmodium falciparum merozoite-erythrocyte attachment
Authors: Kals Emma , Kals Morten , Lees Rebecca A. , Introini Viola , Kemp Alison , Silvester Eleanor , Collins Christine R. , Umrekar Trishant , Kotar Jurij , Cicuta Pietro , Rayner Julian C.
Published: September 2024

Malaria pathogenesis and parasite multiplication depend on the ability of Plasmodium merozoites to invade human erythrocytes. Invasion is a complex multi-step process involving multiple parasite proteins which can differ between species and has been most extensively studied in P. falciparum. However, dissecting the precise role of individual proteins has to date been limited by the availability of quantifiable phenotypic assays. In this study, we apply a new approach to assigning function to invasion proteins by using optical tweezers to directly manipulate recently egressed P. falciparum merozoites and erythrocytes and quantify the strength of attachment between them, as well as the frequency with which such attachments occur. Using a range of inhibitors, antibodies, and genetically modified strains including some generated specifically for this work, we quantitated the contribution of individual P. falciparum proteins to these merozoite-erythrocyte attachment interactions. Conditional deletion of the major P. falciparum merozoite surface protein PfMSP1, long thought to play a central role in initial attachment, had no impact on the force needed to pull merozoites and erythrocytes apart, whereas interventions that disrupted the function of several members of the EBA-175 like Antigen (PfEBA) family and Reticulocyte Binding Protein Homologue (PfRH) invasion ligand families did have a significant negative impact on attachment. Deletion of individual PfEBA and PfRH ligands reinforced the known redundancy within these families, with the deletion of some ligands impacting detachment force while others did not. By comparing over 4000 individual merozoite-erythrocyte interactions in a range of conditions and strains, we establish that the PfEBA/PfRH families play a central role in P. falciparum merozoite attachment, not the major merozoite surface protein PfMSP1.
The novel roles of RNA m6A modification in regulating the development, infection, and oxidative DNA damage repair of Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhang Borui , Cui Tongshan , Chen Shanshan , Zhang Can , Wang Zhiwen , Liu Xili
Published: September 2024

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a vital post-transcriptional regulator, is among the most prevalent RNA modifications in eukaryotes. Nevertheless, the biological functions of m6A in oomycetes remain poorly understood. Here, we showed that the PsMTA1 and PsMTA2 genes are orthologs of human METTL4, while the PsMET16 gene is an ortholog of human METTL16. These genes are implicated in m6A modification and play a critical role in the production of sporangia and oospores, the release of zoospores, and the virulence of Phytophthora sojae. In P. sojae, m6A modifications are predominantly enriched in the coding sequence and the 3’ untranslated region. Notably, the PsMTA1 knockout mutant exhibited reduced virulence, attributed to impaired tolerance to host defense-generated ROS stress. Mechanistically, PsMTA1-mediated m6A modification positively regulates the mRNA lifespan of DNA damage response (DDR) genes in reaction to plant ROS stress during infection. Consequently, the mRNA abundance of the DDR gene PsRCC1 was reduced in the single m6A site mutant ΔRCC1/RCC1A2961C, resulting in compromised DNA damage repair and reduced ROS adaptation-associated virulence in P. sojae. Overall, these results indicate that m6A-mediated RNA metabolism is associated with the development and pathogenicity of P. sojae, underscoring the roles of epigenetic markers in the adaptive flexibility of Phytophthora during infection.
Numerical modelling of masonry structural joint repointing: finite element analysis based on experimental investigations
Authors: Churilov Sergey , Dumova-Jovanoska Elena
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the efficacy of joint repointing as a strengthening technique for unreinforced masonry (URM) structures via experimental data combined with advanced numerical modelling. The numerical simulations demonstrated remarkable alignment with the experimental data, validating the efficacy of the proposed modelling approach. The finite element analysis results were consistent with the experimentally observed stress–strain relationships, failure modes, and ultimate capacities of the masonry panels. The calibrated model successfully replicated the enhanced performance of the strengthened specimens, particularly in terms of increased compressive and shear strengths. Although parametric studies were not performed directly in this study, the validated numerical model provides a solid foundation for future investigations. The accurate reproduction of experimental results through finite element modelling facilitates the potential for extensive parametric analyses, which could explore various strengthening configurations and material properties without the need for costly and time-consuming physical experiments—particularly valuable for assessing and optimising retrofitting strategies for existing URM buildings, particularly in seismic-prone regions. This research contributes significantly to the field of structural engineering by demonstrating the potential of simplified micromodelling techniques to capture the intricacies of masonry behaviour at the meso-level.
Liraglutide and Colesevelam Change Serum and Fecal Bile Acid Levels in a Randomized Trial With Patients With Bile Acid Diarrhea
Authors: Ellegaard Anne-Marie , Kårhus Martin L. , Krych Lukasz , Sonne David P. , Forman Julie L. , Hansen Svend H. , Dragsted Lars Ove , Nielsen Dennis S. , Knop Filip K.
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Both liraglutide and colesevelam improve bile acid diarrhea symptoms. Colesevelam binds excess amounts of diarrhea-causing bile acids in the colon, whereas the mode of action for liraglutide remains elusive. In this article, we examined the impact of colesevelam and liraglutide treatment on the concentrations of bile acids in serum and feces and the fecal microbiota composition to better understand the 2 drugs' modes of action.

METHODS:

Bile acid species were analyzed in serum and fecal samples from a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy trial at baseline and after 3 and 6 weeks of orally administered colesevelam (1,875 mg twice daily, n = 26) or subcutaneously administered liraglutide (uptitrated by weekly increments of 0.6 mg from 0.6 to 1.8 mg daily, n = 26) in patients with 75selenium-homotaurocholic acid test-verified, idiopathic, or postcholecystectomy bile acid diarrhea. Fecal microbiota composition was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing at the same time points.

RESULTS:

Colesevelam increased the fecal concentrations of all bile acid species, whereas it decreased serum concentrations of secondary bile acids. Liraglutide induced a small increase in serum unconjugated bile acid concentrations without affecting fecal bile acid concentrations. No changes in fecal microbiota composition were observed with either treatment.

DISCUSSION:

Colesevelam and liraglutide exhibit distinct effects on serum and fecal bile acid concentrations with colesevelam reducing serum concentrations of secondary bile acids and promoting fecal bile acid excretion, whereas liraglutide enhances serum concentrations of unconjugated bile acids, potentially through deceleration of small intestinal transit time allowing more time for passive absorption of bile acids.
Cobot Control Using Virtual Reality for the Needs of Industry 4.0
Authors:   Politechniki Rzeszowska, Wydział Elektrotechniki i Informatyki, Salach Mateusz , Stęchły Arkadiusz , Paszkiewicz Andrzej , Organiściak Patryk , Budzik Grzegorz
Published: September 2024

Industry 4.0 is undergoing continuous evolution. Management and monitoring systems implemented in the industrial infrastructure are able to collect and process more and more data, then, based on dedicated algorithms, make decisions, and consequently send specific control commands to devices and technological processes. At the same time, there is growing interest in combining devices with other seemingly disparate technologies. An example of creating such coexistence is the integration of sensory solutions with virtual reality. Such activities contribute to the creation of digital twins of devices and processes, which in turn enables remote and in many cases automatic control of physical objects and the course of real processes. In the course of this research, such an approach has been used to develop a solution that allows a robot to be controlled from anywhere and at any time. This work presents a prototype of a solution providing remote control of a cobot arm robot.
Measurement of Thermal Camera’s Parameters’ Method Using an Automated Test Bench
Authors:   Wojskowa Akademia Techniczna, Instytut Optoelektroniki, Mścichowski Mariusz , Sawicki Krzysztof , Sosnowski Tomasz , Firmanty Krzysztof , Kastek Mariusz , Bareła Jarosław
Published: September 2024

To achieve precise and repeatable measurements of thermal camera’s parameters, it is essential to eliminate human error. For this purpose, an automated test bench has been developed that allows fully automatic, semi-automatic and manual control of the measurement process. The designed stand supports remote control via Ethernet interface or USB connection. The developed software enables control, data recording and parameter determination of thermal cameras. The test bench ensures high quality and reliability of thermal measurements, enabling controlled examination of camera characteristics with minimal operator involvement.
Automatic Diagnosis of Railway Track Elements Using Deep Learning Neural Networks
Authors:   Uniwersytet Radomski im. Kazimierza Pułaskiego, ul. Malczewskiego 29, 26-600 Radom, Bojarczak Piotr , Nowakowski Waldemar
Published: September 2024

The article discusses a method for automatic diagnostics of a railway track. It consists in automatic evaluation of the technical condition of selected track elements, such as rails, wooden and concrete sleepers, fasteners and turnouts. It was carried out on the basis of analysis of video images of railroad track elements recorded by two line cameras placed on the diagnostic carriage. The selected FCN-8 deep learning neural network was used to assess the technical condition of the surveyed elements, and the effectiveness of the applied algorithm was determined on the basis of such measures as IoU, Precision, Recall. Conclusions on the application of the FCN-8 network in the automatic classification of features of selected railroad track elements are presented. The results obtained were compared with other methods used in vision diagnostics.
Modeling and Identification of Electromechanical Actuators for the ILR-33 AMBER Rocket
Authors:   Lukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Aviation, Aleja Krakowska 110/114, 02-256 Warsaw, Kierski Jan , Graczyk Hubert
Published: September 2024

The aim of the work was to develop a method for modeling, testing, and identifying electromechanical actuators for rocket applications. Works were performed using a prototype solution designed for the ILR-33 AMBER suborbital rocket, developed by Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Aviation. A set of physical relationships was used to create system’s mathematical model, including Kirchhoff’s laws, Newton’s laws, and nonlinear friction models. System’s tests were then performed. A new method of results analysis was applied herein to gather unknown parameters for the model and to confirm an elevated level of convergence between both model and experiment in all cases analyzed. The identification approach proved itself to be effective and useful. A complex approach concerning modeling, testing and identification of such actuators was explained for the first time in this paper. The methods presented herein can be applied in other disciplines, wherever electromechanical actuator systems are used, and where their proper identification is necessary to ensure system reliability and safety. Presented solutions are simple to implement, and the test stands do not require expensive measurement equipment. The results obtained permit to create a high fidelity model at a reasonably low computational cost.
Examining the Impact of Digital Microcredit Programs on Borrower Poverty: Evidence from the M-Shwari Program in Kenya
Authors: Rastogi Shriya , Pal Anandi , Lim Joe Hswen , Patra Shyam
Published: September 2024

Since the late 1990s microfinance policies have gained significant momentum in Sub-Saharan Africa to promote financial inclusion and alleviate poverty. Additionally, the widespread adoption of mobile technology and increased access to the internet over the last decade has meant that FinTech has played a major role in reshaping the financial industry. There is still conflicting research analysing the impact of digital microcredit programs on poverty. This has motivated us to examine this topic further. This study delves into the impact of a digital microcredit program on poverty, focusing on the M-Shwari program implemented in Kenya. Our findings differ from the existing literature as we see the need for differentiating between the short-run (income) and long-run (asset value). We find a net positive and significant effect of digital microcredit on the value of assets.
METHODOLOGY FOR STUDYING THE COMBUSTION OF SOLID AND LIQUID SUBSTANCES A CLOSED VOLUME
Authors: Makarova T. P. , Baturo A. N. , Bezborodov Yu. N.
Published: September 2024

The development of new methods for testing substances and materials is a relevant area that allows to assess the fire hazard of substances, including modern materials, the composition of which is constantly improving and changing. There are and are created special conditions in the premises, under which combustion acquires a completely different character. An example of such conditions can be combustion in a closed volume, when there is no oxygen access and no energy exchange with the environment. We present a technique that allows us to study the combustion of solids and liquids in a closed volume and to control the parameters of the gas medium. The purpose of the technique is to study the kinetics of combustion of solids and liquids in a closed volume by controlling the parameters and investigating their influence on each other (temperature of the gas medium, reduction of light transmission of combustion products, total oxygen concentration, mass loss of samples). A description of the three stages and the order of their realization is given. The laboratory bench developed by the author is briefly described. The results of the research are supposed to be used to expand the understanding of the nature and kinetics of combustion of substances and materials in a closed volume, as well as to assess the fire hazard of substances whose combustion can occur in a closed volume.
DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A SYSTEM OF METRICS FOR EVALUATING THE QUALITY OF SOFTWARE PRODUCTS
Authors: Garanin I. V. , Sadovskaya N. E.
Published: September 2024

This article discusses the development and implementation of a system of metrics for assigning employees of various levels of training to projects of varying complexity. Quality is an important aspect of software development, therefore, the development of a system that allows you to evaluate and control the assignment of employees to projects at various stages of creating a software product is an urgent task. The article suggests an approach to the development of such a system based on the analysis of existing methods and practices. The system of metrics for assessing competencies and complexity of projects may include various indicators, such as the number of integrations of a project, the complexity of the code, or experience in implementing complex integration projects or experience in implementing similar projects. The implementation of the system will allow you to evaluate the project and assign to it a certain training of analysts, testers and developers at various stages of software product development, which will allow you to implement it competently and without a large number of errors, as well as reduce development time. In addition, the article discusses the methodology of using a system of metrics for assigning human resources. This includes analyzing the data obtained, identifying trends and errors, as well as taking appropriate measures to assign resources to projects. Using the system will allow development companies to make more informed decisions regarding the quality of software products and increase customer satisfaction. In general, the article presents the basic principles and methods of developing and implementing a system for implementing a control system and assigning employees to projects, as well as describes the practical applications and benefits of using such a system.
A MODEL OF THE MAGNETIC FIELD OF A CRACK SURROUNDED BY A UNIFORM EDDY CURRENT
Authors: Shkatov P. N.
Published: September 2024

Eddy current probes with uniform eddy currents, which are increasingly often used in practice, use the measurement of various components of the magnetic field of a defect arising when the current flows around surface cracks. The patterns of formation of components of the magnetic field strength of the defect that are orthogonal to the surface of the tested object (normal) Hn, as well as parallel to the plane of the crack (tangential) Ht are quite obvious and allow us to establish that their extreme values arise in the plane of the crack above its ends and center, respectively. At the same time, there does not exist a satisfactory model of the mechanism of formation of the axial component Hx, directed perpendicular to the crack plane. Both experiments and numerical calculations show the complex character of the function Hx. It has 4 regions with different directions in the vicinity of the crack, and its four extrema arise at a certain distance from the plane of the crack and are shifted relative to the axis of symmetry. The lack of a simple model of the formation of the function Hx makes it difficult to understand the functioning and develop appropriate eddy current transducers. The present paper addresses this problem.
The Effect of Inheritance Receipt on Labor Supply: A Longitudinal Study of Japanese Women
Authors: Hamaaki Junya , Ibuka Yoko
Published: September 2024

This study examines the effect of inheritance receipt on labor supply, exploring the empirical issues associated with inheritance expectations, informal caregiving, and liquidity constraints. The literature has not examined the possibility that ignoring the labor supply increase associated with the termination of caregiving can lead to an underestimation of the decrease in labor supply after inheritance. Based on a dataset of Japanese women, we found that inheritance decreased labor supply, primarily through changes in the extensive margin, particularly for recipients in their 50s and under 40 years of age with children. Unlike labor supply, household expenditures hardly change after an inheritance. Furthermore, unanticipated inheritances reduce labor supply compared to anticipated inheritances. Additionally, controlling for the termination of caregiving responsibilities resulted in a 25 % larger estimate of the wealth effect of inheritance receipt on labor supply. Finally, pre-inheritance liquidity constraints have no effect on changes in labor supply.
New concept for control material in glucose point-of-care-testing for external quality assessment schemes
Authors: Kaiser Patricia , Kramer Udo , Rosenthal Hannah , Genz Christian , Weiss Nathalie , Schellenberg Ingo , Spannagl Michael
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Until now, the external quality assessment (EQA) of glucose point-of-care testing (POCT) has lacked a high quality, suitable and commutable control material to assess measurement accuracy. Here we present a concept for determining the accuracy of glucose measurements, which uses human whole blood and does not require stabilising agents.

Methods

This new generation of quality control samples uses a bead that contains a specific amount of glucose. The bead is then dissolved in a whole blood matrix by the EQA participant immediately before the POCT. We analysed its suitability as an EQA material with respect to its reproducibility, homogeneity and stability, and applied it in an EQA pilot study. The glucose target value was determined using the reference measurement procedure and served as an evaluation criterion for the accuracy of the EQA survey results.

Results

The homogeneity and stability of the new control material fulfilled the quality requirements of ISO 17043. Based on the reference measurement value for glucose, the results of the pilot EQA scheme showed a pass rate of 84.6 % for the participating POCT devices. The acceptance limit was a 15 % permitted deviation from the target value according to Rili-BAEK. All of the device collectives deviated from the target value by 0–4.4 % with the exception of one device type, which deviated by 21 %.

Conclusions

The new concept offers, for the first-time, whole blood-based trueness controls for glucose POCT analysis for external quality assurance. The concept does not require the addition of any stabilising reagent and is easy to use.
How do experts determine where to intervene on test ordering? An interview study
Authors: Podolsky Eyal , Hudek Natasha , McCleary Nicola , McCudden Christopher , Presseau Justin , Brehaut Jamie C.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Lab testing is a high-volume activity that is often overused, leading to wasted resources and inappropriate care. Improving test ordering practices in tertiary care involves deciding where to focus scarce intervention resources, but clear guidance on how to optimize these resources is lacking. We aimed to explore context-sensitive factors and processes that inform individual decisions about laboratory stewardship interventions by speaking to key interest holders in this area.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with test-ordering intervention development experts and authors of test-ordering guidance documents to explore five broad topics: 1) processes used to prioritize tests for intervention; 2) factors considered when deciding which tests to target; 3) measurement of these factors; 4) interventions selected; 5) suggestions for a framework to support these decisions. Transcripts were double coded using directed-content and thematic analysis.

Results

We interviewed 14 intervention development experts. Experts noted they frequently consider test volume, test value, and patient care when deciding on a test to target. Experts indicated that quantifying many relevant factors was challenging. Processes to support these decisions often involved examining local data, obtaining buy-in, and relying on an existing guideline. Suggestions for building a framework emphasized the importance of collaboration, consideration of context and resources, and starting with “easy wins” to gain support and experience.

Conclusions

Our study provides insight into the factors and processes experts consider when deciding which tests to target for intervention and can inform the development of a framework to guide the selection of tests for intervention and guideline development.
Effect of scale factor on the dynamic response of frame foundations
Authors: Ahmed Ameer A. , Fattah Mohammed Y. , Mohsen Makki K.
Published: September 2024

In geotechnical engineering, a scale factor “n” is a numerical ratio that relates the physical properties of a physical model to those of a prototype. The effect of scale factor on the dynamic response of a frame foundation used for high-speed turbo machines is examined through numerical analyses to clarify the influence of scaling dimensions, frequency, static and dynamic loads, and scaled models’ material on the dynamic responses of the frame foundation. The static and dynamic analyses were conducted using Ansys Workbench software. The total number of analyses used to investigate the scale factor effect was 28. Both modal and harmonic analyses were performed to calculate the natural frequencies and displacement responses of the scaled and prototype models under the scaled dynamic loading. Five scale factors were used in this study for concrete models (1, 20, 25, 32, and 40), and two additional analyses on steel models of scale (1 and 20) were used to study the material scaling. The prototype results were first verified, and then the models were investigated after scaling the dynamic loads and dimensions. The results of this study revealed the importance of scaling the frequency when studying the high-speed turbo machine foundation models to reflect the correct responses of the prototype foundation.
Statistical comparison analysis of different real-time kinematic methods for the development of photogrammetric products: CORS-RTK, CORS-RTK + PPK, RTK-DRTK2, and RTK + DRTK2 + GCP
Authors: Monjardín-Armenta Sergio A. , Rangel-Peraza Jesús Gabriel , Sanhouse-García Antonio J. , Plata-Rocha Wenseslao , Rentería-Guevara Sergio Arturo , Mora-Félix Zuriel Dathan
Published: September 2024

Traditional photogrammetry techniques require the use of Ground Control Points (GCPs) to accurately georeference aerial images captured by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). However, the process of collecting GCPs can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and costly. Real-time kinematic (RTK) georeferencing systems eliminate the need for GCPs without deteriorating the accuracy of photogrammetric products. In this study, a statistical comparison of four RTK georeferencing systems (continuously operating reference station (CORS)-RTK, CORS-RTK + post-processed kinematic (PPK), RTK + dynamic RTK 2 (DRTK2), and RTK + DRTK2 + GCP) is presented. The aerial photo was acquired using a Dà-Jiāng Innovation Phantom 4 RTK. The digital photogrammetric processing was performed in Agisoft Metashape Professional software. A pair of global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs) receiving antennas model CHC x900 were used for the establishment of check points (CPs). The accuracy of photogrammetric products was based on a comparison between the modeled and CP coordinates. The four methods showed acceptable planimetric accuracies, with a root mean square error (RMSE)
X,Y
ranging from 0.0164 to 0.0529 m, making the RTK-CORS + PPK method the most accurate (RMSE
X,Y
= 0.0164 m). RTK-CORS + PPK, RTK-DRTK2, and RTK-DRTK2 + GCP methods showed high altimetric accuracies, with RMSEZ values ranging from 0.0201 to 0.0334 m. In general, RTK methods showed a high planimetric and altimetric accuracy, similar to the accuracy of the photogrammetric products obtained using a large number of GCPs.
Exploring the barriers and underlying factors of utilizing a motorcycle without a license among adolescent boys: a qualitative study in Iran
Authors: Karimiankakolaki Zohreh , Mohammadi Parvin , Khadibi Maryam , Sharma Manoj
Published: September 2024

Background

Motorcyclists constitute the highest proportion of victims of road traffic accidents. Riding a motorcycle without a license in teenagers is one of the accident-causing behaviors. Therefore, the current study was conducted with the aim of qualitatively investigating the obstacles and underlying factors of utilizing a motorcycle without a license among adolescent boys in Iran.

Methodology

The present research qualitative research employed the grounded theory approach. The study population of the current research included all teenagers aged 10–18 years old in Farsan City of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province in 2023. The sample size was 14 obtained on the principle of data saturation using the purposeful sampling method. Interviews with participants using a semi-structured questionnaire were conducted. For data coding, MAXQDA 2022 software was used, and data analysis was done with open, axial, and selective coding methods.

Results

The lowest age at the first experience riding a motorcycle was 10 years old. Most of the cases had their first experience of riding a motorcycle at the age of 14 years. By achieving theoretical saturation in the interviews, 51 open codes were identified, and our qualitative data analyses resulted in 7 obstacles to unlicensed motorcycling in 4 categories. “Traffic rules and the desire to get a license”, “accidents and financial, life and insurance losses”, “the existence of a suitable structure for motorcycle riding training”, and “opposition of families and unavailability of motorcycles”. Also, regarding the 15 factors underlying driving a motorcycle without a license, 7 categories, “disregarding traffic rules”, “inappropriate educational structure”, “excitement and pleasant feeling”, “spending life and free time”, “enthusiasm and love” Youth”, “Encouragement and support of significant others and availability of motorcycles”, “Economic problems” were obtained.

Conclusions

According to the findings, the obstacles and underlying factors of riding motorcycles without a license were identified from the perspective of teenagers, by focusing on these factors and also changing or modifying the things that can be changed, the occurrence of this behavior and ultimately the resulting injuries can be reduced.
Long wavelength fluoride optical glass fibers performance signature in high speed local area data networks
Authors: Prabu Ramachandran Thandaiah , Viruthachalam Velmurugan , Sweeti Sharon , Sree Sripada Rama , Kumar Chandran Ramesh , Addanki Satish , Mahmoud Saber Ali
Published: September 2024

This paper has clarified long wavelength fluoride optical glass fibers performance signature in high speed local area data networks. The signal attenuation and the total fiber pulse broadening are studied versus network length for various fluoride optical glass fibers and AS2 Se3 glass fiber at various spectral wavelengths. The total signal delay time is demonstrated with fiber numerical aperture with 15 km network length for various fluoride optical glass fibers and AS2 Se3 glass fiber at 2.5 μm optimum spectral wavelength. Total fiber signal bandwidth, total Shannon channel bit rate, and NRZ/RZ channel data rate transmission are clarified with 15 km network length for various fluoride optical glass fibers and AS2 Se3 glass fiber at 2.5 μm optimum spectral wavelength.
Advancing New Governance Models for Gender Data in Climate Resilience Funding
Authors: Ezirigwe Jane
Published: September 2024

Globally, between USD 850 to USD 940 billion was allocated for 2021 climate finance. However, a mere 0.01 percent of this was directed towards projects addressing both climate change and women’s rights. Unfortunately, the climate crisis is not gender-neutral. Yet, gender data analysis and the significant role of women in climate action are often overlooked, resulting in critical issues being underrepresented in climate budgets. In today’s data-driven world, gender data assumes a critical role in highlighting women’s significant contributions to climate change, thereby influencing funding decisions. Within this context, the Room 9 sub-group of the “17 Rooms initiative” is currently exploring the potential of data cooperatives to facilitate financing for women’s groups transitioning towards climate-resilient practices. This paper explores the intersection of gender data and climate resilience funding and advocates for improved governance models that ensure accurate, comprehensive, and meaningful representation of gender data in climate funding decision-making processes.
Linear Pottery Culture sites west of the Oder river in the Federal state of Brandenburg, Germany
Authors: Cziesla Erwin
Published: September 2024

After colonising the loess uplands of Bohemia, Moravia and Poland, c. 5500 cal BC, the earliest farming societies (LBK) spread northwest along the Oder valley; then expansion ended at Uckermark, where 119 findspots are located. Newly found sites indicate changes to housing and livestock-farming techniques, in particular the specialised production of dairy products.
A Prefrontal→Periaqueductal Gray Pathway Differentially Engages Autonomic, Hormonal, and Behavioral Features of the Stress-Coping Response
Authors: Skog Timothy D. , Johnson Shane B. , Hinz Dalton C. , Lingg Ryan T. , Schulz Emily N. , Luna Jordan T. , Beltz Terry G. , Romig-Martin Sara A. , Gantz Stephanie C. , Xue Baojian , Johnson Alan K. , Radley Jason J.
Published: September 2024

The activation of autonomic and hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) systems occurs interdependently with behavioral adjustments under varying environmental demands. Nevertheless, laboratory rodent studies examining the neural bases of stress responses have generally attributed increments in these systems to be monolithic, regardless of whether an active or passive coping strategy is employed. Using the shock probe defensive burying test (SPDB) to measure stress-coping features naturalistically in male and female rats, we identify a neural pathway whereby activity changes may promote distinctive response patterns of hemodynamic and HPA indices typifying active and passive coping phenotypes. Optogenetic excitation of the rostral medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) input to the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) decreased passive behavior (immobility), attenuated the glucocorticoid hormone response, but did not prevent arterial pressure and heart rate increases associated with rats’ active behavioral (defensive burying) engagement during the SPDB. In contrast, inhibition of the same pathway increased behavioral immobility and attenuated hemodynamic output but did not affect glucocorticoid increases. Further analyses confirmed that hemodynamic increments occurred preferentially during active behaviors and decrements during immobility epochs, whereas pathway manipulations, regardless of the directionality of effect, weakened these correlational relationships. Finally, neuroanatomical evidence indicated that the influence of the rostral mPFC→vlPAG pathway on coping response patterns is mediated predominantly through GABAergic neurons within vlPAG. These data highlight the importance of this prefrontal→midbrain connection in organizing stress-coping responses and in coordinating bodily systems with behavioral output for adaptation to aversive experiences.
Analysis of a Simplified Predictive Function Control Formulation Using First Order Transfer Function for Adaptive Cruise Control
Authors: Syed Abdullah Syed Idros B , Zainuddin Mohamed Al Sideque , Abdullah Muhammad , Tofrowaih Khairul Amri
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a formulation and analysis of a low computation Predictive Functional Control (PFC), which is a simplified version of the more advanced Model Predictive Control (MPC) for an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system by using a representation of first order closed-loop transfer function. In this work, a non-linear mathematical model of vehicle longitudinal dynamics is considered as a control plant. Then, a simple Proportional Integral (PI) controller is employed as an inner loop to identify the first-order relationship between its actual and desired trajectory speed according to the reasonable time constant based on the logical response of pedals pressing. To directly control the whole plant, the PFC is formulated as an outer loop to track the desired speed together with the convergence rate based on a user preference while satisfying constraints related to acceleration and safe distancing. Since PFC is formulated based on the first-order transfer function, the prediction and tuning processes are straightforward and specific to this system. The simulation results confirm that the proposed controller managed to track the desired speed while maintaining a comfortable driving response. Besides, the controller also can retain safe distancing during the car following application, even in the presence of unmeasured disturbance. In summary, this framework can avoid the need to formulate an inverse non-linear model that is typically used when deploying a hierarchical control structure to compute the throttle and brake pedals pressing as it has been replaced with an inner loop PI controller. The performance also is comparable yet more conservative due to the simplification. These findings can become a good reference for designing and improving the ACC controller, as the framework can be easily generalized for any type of vehicle for future work.
Measurable Fishing as An Attempt of Preventing Overfishing Phenomenon in Indonesian Waters
Authors: Roisah Kholis , Rahayu Rahayu , Susetyorini Peni , Yusliwidaka Arnanda , Aziz Saidatul Nadia Abd
Published: September 2024

This research focuses on analyzing the effectiveness of the provision about the measurable fishing as specified in the Government Regulation Number 11 of 2023 as an attempt of preventing overfishing and maintaining the sustainability of biodiversity in Indonesian waters and sea territory. This study is a normative research with statute approach. The data used was secondary one consisting of primary legal, secondary legal, and non-legal materials. Overfishing phenomenon is a serious problem endangering ocean resource and environment. Some countries have reported the overfishing problems damaging the sea ecosystem. Indonesia is one of countries predictably encountering overfishing phenomenon, particularly in northern Java water territory. The indicators of overfishing phenomenon are smaller size of fish and fewer fish caught requiring the fishermen to go farther to catch fish. The fact of overfishing leads to a policy about zone-based measurable fishing and catching quota. This policy can cease overfishing phenomenon because it can control and monitor fish catch, and thereby makes resource and environment better in water or sea territory. Considering the conclusion of research, the concept of measurable fishing formulated by Indonesia is based on zone and quota. Zone base prioritize equal share for the fishermen, promotes economic growth, and determines the capacity of catch allowed for a certain species, while quota base focuses on the limitation of fish catching level based on the potency of fish caught that can control the fishing rate according to the fish resource.
Ribų valdymas asmeninių socialinių paslaugų erdvėje: samprata, iššūkiai ir galimybės
Authors: Gevorgianienė Violeta , Šumskienė Eglė , Genienė Rasa , Žalimienė Laimutė , Dunajevas Eugenijus
Published: September 2024

In the face of external threats, Lithuania's personal social services system must adapt to ensure the continued delivery of services. It must respond to the need to change the content of services, expand the scope of services to include new clients, attract or admit new social service providers, and manage the boundaries between formally provided social services and other individuals and organizations offering assistance. The aim of this article is to define the concepts of 'boundaries' and 'boundary work' in the context of personal social services' resilience to external threats and to investigate how actors from different social spaces—formal (institutionalized) social service providers and non-formal (non-institutionalized) social assistance providers—characterize their interactions with each other and perform 'boundary work'. Research methods include interviews and focus groups. Research participants comprise: 1) formal social service providers (8 focus groups), and 2) informal actors operating in municipalities of different sizes (10 interviews). The study revealed that crises lead to shifts in the boundaries between the activities of different social service providers, increased interactions between actors from different social spaces, the creation of new cooperation networks, emerging opportunities for action, and limitations in their activities. In this phase of challenges and the search for solutions, new social service providers emerge and the contours of new forms of assistance take shape. Reflecting on the experience of crises allows for the construction of future projections for possible recurrent threats.
Combination of control factors influencing application uniformity of a low-pressure pivot sprinkler spray unit
Authors: JM Mohammed , AS Abdullahi , SM Musa
Published: September 2024

The objective of any pivot irrigation system is to ensure uniformity of application of water which can be achieved when responsible factors such as pressure, drop tube lengths, nozzle size etc. are adequately designed. This indoor experiment conducted in a 44m2 laboratory facility tends to evaluate the extent of the influence of some sprinkler design parameters on the performance of a low pressure single pivot sprinkler spay unit. The parameters considered are; pressures of 9,12, 15 and 19Psi, nozzle sizes of 4.17, 5.56, 6.95 and 8.14 mm and drop tube lengths of 1, 1.2 and 1.5m. In this experiment an inverted U-shaped frame designed to support a spray sprinkler at different heights was used. The hydraulic installation with manual throttle valves for controlling water distribution was used to supply pressurized water to the spray model sprinkler. A number of 64 graduated catch-cans with 0.16 m diameter and 0.2m height were used. The cans were arranged in eight radial legs with a distance of 1m apart. The system was run for one hour then the caught volumes were measured manually using a graduated cylinder with a capacity of 500 mL. The catch-cans data were used to determine uniformity coefficients. Line graphs were used to show relationships between the parameters measured. The experiment shows that there is strong relationship between the parameters considered. It indicated that the coefficient of uniformity (CU) and distribution uniformity of lower quarter DUlq increases with increase in nozzle size and pressure. It also shows that the largest nozzle size and pressure within the limits of this experiment gave the best CU and (DUlq) values of 96% and 90% at 1.5m height. Lager nozzle sizes with lower pressure reduces the CU and DUlq values. It is concluded from this experiment that though pressure, nozzle size and height of application influences the uniformity of application, larger nozzle sizes accompanied by higher pressure and height of application resulted in good uniformity of application. It is therefore imperative that while operating Pivot Sprinkler systems, careful selection of nozzle diameters, operating pressure and drop tube heights, sprinkler can be used to apply the ideal amount of irrigation water needed to refill the crop root zone that can neither cause runoff nor harm the crop and also provide the best uniformity possible under the prevailing wind and management conditions.
CONTEXTUALIZATION OF D. CHYZHEVSKY’S HISTORICAL-PHILOSOPHICAL CONCEPT: FROM PHILOSOPHY IN UKRAINE (1926) TO ESSAYS ON THE HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY IN UKRAINE (1931)
Authors: TERLETSKY Vitalii
Published: September 2024

Chyzhevsky’s work Essays on the History of Philosophy in Ukraine has become a fundamental study of the history of Ukrainian philosophy since its publication in 1931. But even earlier, Chyzhevsky wrote the work Philosophy in Ukraine. An Attempt at Historiography (1926), its first part had a second edition (1929) and contained some additions and clarifications. Chyzhevsky’s reaction to the reviews of the first edition of his Philosophy in Ukraine included in the second edition of this work is interesting and worthy of attention. In it, he responds to the comments and objections made by the reviewers of the first edition of the work (by Y. Kolubovsky, V. Zaikyn, I. Mirchuk, S. Hessen). This reaction has a twofold nature. On the one hand, Chyzhevsky admits that some points in his work require correction, in particular, the assessment of the role of Protestantism in the development of Ukrainian philosophical thought, the need for a more detailed consideration of the worldview of such thinkers as Gogol, Kostomarov, Shevchenko. On the other hand, Chyzhevsky, clarifying his position, continues to defend his principles, according to which he includes certain authors in the “canon” of Ukrainian philosophy. At the same time, he still admits that some authors should be included in this “canon” (... Spir). Chyzhevsky also responds to the Marxist review of P. Hanin (P. Demchuk), but does not stop at her meaningful remarks. However, some of these remarks are not unfounded, as they relate to Chyzhevsky’s evaluative judgments expressed about Skovoroda and philosophy in Kharkiv after Schad. A more careful analysis and comparison of the two editions of Philosophy in Ukraine (1926, 1929) and Essays on the History of Philosophy in Ukraine in the cases of Skovoroda, Schad, and Jakob proves that Chyzhevsky changed his initial, sometimes harsh, evaluative judgments to neutral ones. There is no reason to definitely assert that such changes occurred under the direct influence of reviews. However, there are reasons to affirm that many innovations and reassessments in Essays correlate with the remarks formulated in the reviews. In contrast to Western European favorable reviews of Essays (S. Hessen, G. Frolovsky, V. Zaikyn, D. Doroshenko, N. Lossky), the reaction of Soviet philosophy turned out to be unscientific and ideologically engaged (Y. Bilyk, V. Yurynets).
THE HISTORIOGRAPHY OF EARLY NEO-THOMISM AND THE STUDY OF THE VIEWS OF UKRAINIAN NEOTOMISTS OF THE FIRST HALF OF THE XX CENTURY
Authors: SHEREMETA Oksana
Published: September 2024

In the article, the author substantiates the thesis that the study of the historiography of early Neo-Thomism is extremely important for research on the history of its Ukrainian branch and, accordingly, the creation of its Ukrainian historiography. Early Neotomism is a significant stage in the development of Neotomism. Under its influence, Ukrainian neo-Thomists Andrei Sheptytsky, J. Slipyj, and M. Konrad formed their views. Its study is an important part of the historiography of Ukrainian Neo-Thomism. The study of early Neo-Thomism helps not only to objectively assess the views of Ukrainian Neo-Thomists, but also to distinguish the views of thinkers who do not belong to it, as in the case of H. Kostelnyk. The historiography of the issue includes not only the works of Ukrainian thinkers and studies devoted to their views, but also the sources of Neotomism, the works of foreign Neotomists, and studies that help to reconstruct the inherent context of the ideas of the representatives of the movement in Ukraine. The most important of these types of works are the encyclicals of the Popes and documents of the Church, the works of Neo-Thomist philosophers, and the achievements of researchers of this period. They help to recreate the context and clarify the features of early Neo-Thomism. The main one is objective idealism, which is used to criticise subjectivism in philosophy. The next feature is the reference not directly to the works of Thomas Aquinas, but to the encyclicals of the Popes, Church documents, and the works of famous Neo-Thomists. Thus, the absence of direct references to St Thomas is not a reason to think that a thinker cannot be a Neotomist. The study of early Neo-Thomism is an important part of the historiography of Ukrainian Neo-Thomism. His research will make it possible not only to objectively assess the views of Ukrainian neo-Thomists, but also to distinguish the views of thinkers who do not belong to it. As a result, it can be argued that the study of the historiography of early neo-Thomism is extremely important for research on the history of its Ukrainian branch and, accordingly, for the creation of the historiography of the issue.