bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Student Co-Creation of Resources in a Second Year Linear Algebra Course
Authors: Richard Morgiane , Brady-Van den Bos Mirjam
Published: September 2024

In this project, we investigated how designing their own tutorial questions could help level 2 mathematics students negotiate the often-challenging transition from level 1 in the Scottish curriculum. One student from the level 2 linear algebra course at the University of Aberdeen volunteered to create practice questions on topics of linear algebra they selected. Through analysis of the participantâ€™s interview, we showed, in accordance with the literature, that the activity benefited them in terms of study skills (motivation, focus, independence), in terms of mathematics learning (deep learning and mathematical knowledge construction). We also found that the activity had contributed to improving the volunteerâ€™s resilience to learning mathematics, and their sense of legitimate participation in the mathematics community. This has not been discussed in the literature and is a significant finding considering the known difficulty for mathematics students, in particular women, to feel they â€˜belongâ€™. This research further suggests that if the activity took place in groups, it could also help develop a peer-support community which students could rely on to negotiate the transition to level 2.
Effects of Ascorbic, Citric, and Humic Acids on Maize Stem and Leaf Anatomy
Authors: Kadhum Jazran Jard , Hamza Jalal Hameed , Hasan Muazaz Azeez , Al-Amery Maythem , Serson William , Seleiman Mahmoud F , Battaglia Martin , Rihan Hail Z
Published: September 2024

درست التغيرات التشريحية في الأنسجة الداخلية للساق والورقة عند معاملة البذور والنبات بالأحماض لتعزيز النمو والتطور في الذرة الصفراء خلال فصلي الربيع لعامي 2019 و2020. تم تطبيق تصميم القطاعات الكاملة المعشاة بترتيب الالواح المنشقة بثلاثة مكررات. تضمنت الالواح الرئيسة معاملات التغذية الورقية (حامض الأسكوربيك (AA) وحامض الستريك (CA) بتركيز 100 ملغم لتر-1، وكذلك حامض الهيوميك (HA) بتركيز 1 مل لتر -1. تم استخدام الماء المقطر كمعاملة مقارنة. وتضمنت الالواح الثانوية معاملات نقع البذور بنفس المعاملات. كشفت نتائج تحليل المقطع العرضي للساق وجود اختلافات في حجم الحزم الوعائية بين المعاملات المختلفة بالمقارنة مع معاملة المقارنة، وأن التغذية الورقية باستخدام CA أظهرت نتائج متفوقة في كلا الموسمين. كما تفوقت البذور المنقوعة في CA و HA على المعاملات الاخرى. كان هناك تداخل معنوي بين التغذية الورقية بالـ CA ونقع البذور بالماء المقطر في عام 2019، أما في عام 2020 فتفوقت معاملة التداخل بين التغذية الورقية بالـ CA ونقع البذور بالـ HA على بقية المعاملات. ومن المهم أن نلاحظ أن المعاملات كان لها تأثير محدود على بشرة أوراق النبات، مع ملاحظة آثار طفيفة فقط. على سبيل المثال، تسببت المعاملات بالـ AA و CA في حدوث بعض التشوه في أشكال بعض الثغور في البشرة العلوية عند مقارنتها بمعاملة المقارنة. أدت المعاملات باستخدام الـ AA و HA إلى زيادة في حجم خلايا البشرة العادية، مع جدران خلايا أكثر استقامة، بينما في معاملة المقارنة، كانت جدران الخلايا متموجة فضلاً عن ذلك كان هناك زيادة وتوسع في حجم خلايا الفلين والسيليكا في النباتات المعاملة. تسهم هذه الدراسة في فهم التغيرات التشريحية التي تحدث في الأوراق والسيقان خلال فترات الإجهاد في موسم نمو الذرة الصفراء، وتسلط الضوء على التأثيرات المحتملة للمعاملات الحامضية على وظائف النبات.
Synthesis and photocatalytic applications of TiO2-CQDs nanocomposites prepared by biological methods
Authors: Jabbar Maryam S. , Mahmood Olfat A. , Jameel Zainab N. , Jihad Noor. J.
Published: September 2024

في هذه الدراسة ، تم تصنيع CQDs بالطريقة الخضراء بأستخدام عصير البرتقال والايثانول تم خلطها عند درجة حرارة منخفضة نسبيا بواسطة عملية الكربنة الحرارية المائية، وتم تحضير حبيبات TiO2   بواسطة طريقة .sol-gel وكذلك تم تحضير المركبات النانوية و TiO2-CQDs بنسب وزنية مختلفة بواسطة الخلط الانزلاقي والمعالجة الحرارية. أظهرت نتائج FESEM تكوين مواد  نانوية بأشكال مختلفة وبمعدل حجم حبيبي صغير كشف المجهر الإلكتروني النافذ عالي الدقة أن TiO2 طور (anatase) يتجمع في أشكال وأحجام كروية في الغالب أقل من 15 nm. كان لنقاط الكميات الكمية قطر موحد نسبيًا، وشكل كروي ذو بنية بلورية عالية، وحجم أقل من 2 nm. تُظهر أطياف  FTIR للمواد النانوية المحضرة وجود النطاق العريض عند (450–4000) cm-1  يتوافق مع اهتــزاز التمدد لمجموعات الهيدروكسيل المنتهية في العينات. أظهرت نتائج التحليل الطيفي المرئي للأشعة فوق البنفسجية أن امتصاصية المتراكبات النانوية  (TiO2-CQD) تزداد مع زيادة نسبة CQDs ، وكانت قيمة فجوة الطاقة البصرية  3.14 eV و 3.07 eV  للمواد TiO2 و CQDsعلى التوالي. وانخفضت قيم فجــوة الطاقة للــمتراكبات TiO2-CQDs النانــوية مع زيادة معدل CQDs ضمن المدى 1.85–2.72) eV  ) . تم اختبار أداء التحفيز الضوئي عن طريق تحلل صبغات الميثيلين الأزرق (MB) والميثيل البرتقالي (MO) تحت تأثير إشعاع الأشعة الفوق البنفسجية. أظهرت النتائج أن جميع  المواد المتراكبة المحضرة بنسب مختلفة كانت لها كفاءة تحفيزية ضوئية أعلى من TiO2 NPs ، وأن كفاءة التحفيز الضوئي تزداد مع زيادة نسبة . CQDs كانت كفاءة التحلل لكل من الميثيلين الأزرق (MB) والميثيل البرتقالي (MO) عند 84% و % 39 عند240 دقيقة على التوالي.
Bacterial protein meal digestibility, digestive enzyme activity and kinetics in barramundi (Lates calcarifer) and tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) juveniles
Authors: Boucher Richard Le , Wu Chenyi , Chung Weiqiang , Sapri Tuty Adilah Binte , Koon Meng , Tan Lydia Shun En , Ng Jessalin Kai Lin , Lee Co Sin
Published: September 2024

Single-cell protein meals, particularly bacterial protein meals (BPMs), show promise as alternative protein sources for fish diets. However, their digestibility in non-salmonid species remains underexplored. This study evaluated the apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) of a BPM derived from brewery by-products when fed to barramundi (Lates calcarifer) and tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). Two cohorts of 150 barramundi (48.9 ± 4.2 g, 95 dph) and 150 tilapia (48.7 ± 11.4 g, 219 dph) were raised in recirculated systems with brackish water (28°C, 5 ppt salinity) over two trials. Fish performance, ADCs for 42 fatty acids and 17 amino acids, and gut enzyme activity, including the Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) for trypsin, chymotrypsin, and leucine aminopeptidase, were assessed. Both species exhibited high thermal-unit growth coefficients (1.7–1.9) and low feed-conversion ratios (1.1) on control diets. Barramundi had a slightly but significantly higher diet ADC for protein (95.8 ± 0.5%) compared to tilapia (94.8 ± 0.6%) (P < 0.05), consistent across most essential amino acids except lysine. Conversely, barramundi showed lower digestibility for PUFA (92.0%) and omega-6 (85.7%) than tilapia. The ADCs of BPM for dry matter and protein were higher in barramundi (66.3 ± 5.8% and 87.5 ± 0.9%) than in tilapia (54.1 ± 5.1% and 71.8 ± 5.3%). Tilapia exhibited higher gut enzyme activities than barramundi, and these activities were unaffected by BPM incorporation (P > 0.05), indicating no presence of digestive inhibitors in the tested BPM. The affinity of digestive trypsin in both species (Km = 11.8–15.1) was 3 to 30 times higher than that measured in other fish species. High affinities for chymotrypsin, and leucine aminopeptidase were observed in both tilapia (240.0 ± 58.6; 132.2 ± 3.2, respectively) and barramundi (425.7 ± 50.7; 70.0 ± 2.2, respectively) and significant interaction suggest that the relationship between diet and enzyme kinetics varies between species. This study demonstrates that both barramundi and tilapia can effectively digest the tested BPM, with barramundi showing superior efficiency. It underscores the importance of tailoring aquafeed ingredients to specific species based on nutrient digestibilities and enzyme kinetics.
Room-temperature Ferromagnetism, Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropy, and Anisotropic Magnetoresistance in Epitaxially Stabilized Air-stable Chromium Tellurides
Authors: Palakkal Jasnamol , Tschesche Anna , Henning Pia , Meyer Tobias
Published: September 2024

Chromium telluride (Cr(1+δ)Te2) thin films of various δ were prepared using a hybrid pulsed laser deposition technique by varying the flux rate of a Te-molecular beam source. We found that the thickness and nanocrystalline quality of the films increased with the Te-flux. All three films prepared showed hexagonal layering with the same out-of-plane lattice constant. Increasing the Te-flux rate stabilized the CrTe, Cr2Te3, and CrTe2 phases of the telluride, and they showed different magnetic transition temperatures (TC) from film to film, corresponding to their composition. The tellurides show anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) and a metal-to-insulator transition (MIT) at the vicinity of their respective TCs, with the highest TC of 324 K unveiled by Cr2Te3. These stoichiometry-controlled room-temperature ferromagnetic air-stable 2D materials prepared using the hybrid deposition technique can significantly advance further development of 2D materials for magnetic device applications.
Title: Comparative Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty and Bipolar Hip Hemiarthroplasty in Femoral Neck Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Haghpanah Behnam , Taheri Ehsan , Salimi Omid , Seifi Shakiba , Amini Alireza , Heidarpour Kousha , Khalifehsoltany Ali , Sohrabi Ali
Published: September 2024

Femoral neck fractures, particularly prevalent among the elderly, demand timely and appropriate treatment due to high costs and the potential for severe complications. Selecting the correct treatment method is essential to prevent long-term issues such as dislocation and the need for reoperation. This study compares the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) and bipolar hip hemiarthroplasty (BHA) in treating femoral neck fractures. This retrospective, applied, observational, and descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 48 patients (24 in the THA group and 24 in the BHA group). Patient information was obtained from the surgical archives of Shariati Hospital in 2020–2021. During a telephone call, patients were asked questions from the Oxford Hip Scoring Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test, and significance was tested. Results are presented quantitatively. Results showed that patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty scored an average of 7.5 points higher than those who had bipolar hemiarthroplasty, a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). This suggests that total arthroplasty may offer better overall performance and outcomes in terms of pain reduction and joint efficiency for patients over 50 years old. The superiority of total arthroplasty was observed across all age groups, with the most pronounced difference in the 60–69 age range (14.43 points), followed by the 50–59 age group (2.15 points), and the smallest difference in patients 70 years and older (1.38 points). These findings indicate that total hip arthroplasty may be particularly beneficial for patients between 50 and 69 years old, while the advantage becomes less pronounced in patients 70 years and older. Individual patient factors, including comorbidities and activity levels, should guide the choice between THA and BHA. Further research with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up periods is necessary to confirm these results and inform optimal clinical decision-making for treating femoral neck fractures.
WITHDRAWN: An experimental study on the effects of moisture content and confining pressure on the damping ratio of silty clay
Authors: Chen Jianshen , Chen Guoqiang , Pan Yuangui , Zheng Yuchao , Zhang Huijian , Shao Shiyou , Lu Feng
Published: September 2024

The damping ratio is a crucial dynamic parameter in soil. In order to study the damping ratio characteristics of silty clay, dynamic triaxial tests were conducted. Two influencing factors, moisture content and confining pressure, were considered, and the specific effects and sensitivities of changes in these factors on the damping ratio were discussed in detail. The research results indicate that an increase in moisture content leads to an increase in the damping ratio of silty clay, while an increase in confining pressure results in a decrease in the damping ratio. The relationship curve between the damping ratio and dynamic shear strain (λ–γd) demonstrates distinct phase characteristics. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the damping ratio to moisture content is generally higher than its sensitivity to confining pressure, with significant differences in sensitivity observed across different phases. This study uncovers the complex influence of moisture content and confining pressure on the mechanical properties of silty clay, providing an important reference for a deeper understanding of its behavior in various conditions.
Evaluating tumor microenvironment hypoxia and microvessel density in breast cancer models using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) DWI
Authors: Deng Yi , Han Chao-gang , Deng Zi-qin , Yang Shou-yi , Wu Zhuo-han , Liu Jia-li , Ma Jia-ming
Published: September 2024

This study was designed to assess the diagnostic value of quantitative diffusion-weighted (DW) and intravascular micro-imaging magnetic resonance imaging (IVIM)-derived DW metric values predictive for hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α)+ clusterofdiffe-rentiation31(CD31)/microvascular density(MVD) levels in a nude mouse model with breast cancers. Quantitative parameters for apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), the diffusion components including D and pseudodiffusion, known as fraction with free water (D*), were derived from fitting results of a breast cancer model in 33 nude mice. Immunohistochemistry was performed to analyze HIF-1α and MVD levels using CD31. The associations of these variables with pathological features were evaluated. The diagnostic performance of quantitative imaging indices was evaluated by the Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC) and Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Conclusion: DWI quantitative parameters, especially the D and ADC values from IVIM-DWI, are helpful for evaluating hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment and MVD of tumors.
AI-Based Fault Detection and Isolation for UPQCs: Modelling, Simulation, and Power Quality Improvement
Authors: Nishad D. K. , Tiwari A. N. , Khalid Saifullah
Published: September 2024

Unified Power Quality Conditioners (UPQCs) enhance power quality in electrical distribution networks. However, faults in UPQCs can lead to power quality issues and system outages. This paper investigates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques for advanced fault detection and isolation in UPQCs. We propose modeling and simulating various AI-based approaches, including artificial neural networks (ANNs), fuzzy Logic, and hybrid neuro-fuzzy systems. The primary objective is to develop an efficient, accurate, and real-time fault detection system that improves the overall performance and reliability of UPQCs. Simulation results demonstrate that AI techniques can accurately detect and classify faults. While AI-based fault detection in UPQCs is promising, challenges such as real-time data processing and interpretation must be addressed for widespread adoption. Future research directions include deep learning architectures, unsupervised learning, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, and explainable AI to further enhance fault detection capabilities in UPQCs. Addressing these challenges will contribute to developing intelligent and self-healing power distribution networks, with AI-based fault detection playing a pivotal role.
Reconfigurable and Dynamic QoS Provisioning in Optical DCN Architecture for Cloud-Centric Real-time Applications
Authors: Bera Sougata , Pani Chandi
Published: September 2024

The escalating demand for cost-effective and traffic-optimizing applications has placed significant strain on current electrical packet-switched Data Center Networks (DCNs), which are hampered by bandwidth limitations. Optical circuit-switched DCNs, with their advanced capabilities of high data rates and enhanced bandwidth, offer a promising solution to these challenges but are impeded by prolonged reconfiguration times. To address these constraints, various passive optical device-based solutions have been proposed. Furthermore, in mixed traffic environments, there is a pressing need for dynamic Quality of Service (QoS) provisioning. This paper introduces a novel reconfigurable and dynamic QoS-provisioned DCN architecture designed to tackle these challenges. The proposed architecture employs a heuristic algorithm that enables real-time network reconfiguration, optimizing resource allocation and reducing latency while ensuring QoS. The effectiveness of the architecture is demonstrated through comprehensive simulations and hardware-based implementations. The architecture, referred to as Passive Optical Data Center Switch (PODS), integrates an Arrayed Waveguide Grating Router (AWGR) with a controller unit. The controller manages the dynamic placement of packets in buffers according to service class, with the added capability of reusing buffers from other service classes. This approach enhances QoS provisioning and enables path reconfiguration via a loopback method, thereby mitigating blocking and congestion. The scalability, high throughput, low latency, service reliability, and power efficiency of the PODS architecture are validated under real-time traffic conditions. Performance comparisons with existing passive optical DCN architectures, such as PODCA, reveal substantial improvements in delay, throughput, and blocking probability. The framework was simulated using Python on the Google Colab platform within a Windows environment, yielding a 46.3% reduction in latency and a 5% improvement in network load compared to the PODCA architecture. Additionally, a laboratory test bench model comprising 7 Top of Rack (ToR) switches and Raspberry Pi modules was constructed. This small-scale model featured 112 communication links utilizing 16 different wavelengths and achieved optimal performance with 14 buffers per ToR. Implementation of the proposed algorithm resulted in an 18.3% reduction in blocking probability across the entire architecture and eliminated blocking in high-priority real-time traffic under full network load conditions. The findings demonstrate that the reconfigurable DCN architecture presented in this study significantly enhances QoS delivery, effectively meeting the evolving demands of cloud services and data-intensive applications.
Explore Cross-Codec Quality-Rate Convex Hulls Relation for Adaptive Streaming
Authors: Nia Masoumeh Farhadi
Published: September 2024

With the ongoing advancement of video technology and the emergence of new video platforms, suppliers of video contents are striving to ensure that the video quality meets the desire of consumers. Accessing a limited amount of channel bandwidth, they are often looking for a novel approach to decrease the use of data and thus the required energy and cost. This study evaluates the Quality Rate performance of H.264, H.265, and VP9 codecs across resolutions (960×544, 1920×1080, 3840×2160) to optimize video quality while minimizing bitrate, crucial for energy and cost efficiency. At this approach, original videos at native resolutions were encoded, decoded, and rescaled using FFmpeg. For each resolution, encoding and decoding were performed at various quantization levels. Quality Rate (QR) curves were generated using PSNR and VMAF metric against bitrate. Convex Hull curves were then derived and mathematically modelled for each resolution. The procedure was systematically applied to H.264, H.265, and VP9 codecs. Results indicate that increasing CRF values reduce bitrate, PSNR, and VMAF, with PSNR ranging between 20–40 dB. Logarithmic polynomial modelling of convex hulls demonstrated high accuracy, with low RMSE and high R-Squared values. These findings suggest that the convex hull of one codec can predict the performance of others, aiding future content-driven prediction methodologies and enhancing adaptive streaming efficiency.
The Association Between Atherogenic Index of plasma and Serum Uric Acid: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hu Bingchao , Yu Wanqian , Zou Huiming , Li Ping
Published: September 2024

Metabolic diseases are significantly correlated with the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP). However, there is currently no conclusive data establishing a direct connection between AIP and serum uric acid (SUA) levels. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) covering the years 2007 to 2016 were used in this cross-sectional investigation. 10,247 people in all participated in the study. By using the logarithm (base 10) of the ratio of triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, AIP was calculated. The concentration of SUA was the dependent variable. The connection between AIP and SUA levels was tested using a multi-factor logistic regression model and a limited three-sample technique. Sub-group analysis and interaction testing were also carried out. In the completely adjusted model, the study found a curvilinear relationship between AIP and the chance of higher SUA levels. Serum uric acid (SUA) levels were directly correlated with an increase in AIP values when the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) was less than 0.81. Nevertheless, serum uric acid (SUA) levels consistently decreased with increasing AIP values when the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) exceeded 0.81. Moreover, the probability of having high SUA levels was significantly higher in those in the top 25% of AIP than in those in the lowest 25% of AIP (β = 0.6195, 95% CI: 0.54–0.68, P < 0.001). This association was consistent for every category.there is an inverted U-shaped nonlinear relationship between SUA levels and AIP among adult US population. This suggests that higher AIP levels could lead to higher SUA levels.
LLM-3D Print: Large Language Models To Monitor and Control 3D Printing
Authors: Farimani Amir Barati , jadhav Yayati , Pak Peter
Published: September 2024

Industry 4.0 has revolutionized manufacturing by driving digitalization and shifting the paradigm toward additive manufacturing (AM). Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), a key AM technology, enables the creation of highly customized, cost-effective products with minimal material waste through layer-by-layer extrusion, posing a significant challenge to traditional subtractive methods. However, the susceptibility of material extrusion techniques to errors often requires expert intervention to detect and mitigate defects that can severely compromise product quality. While automated error detection and machine learning models exist, their generalizability across diverse 3D printer setups, firmware, and sensors is limited, and deep learning methods require extensive labeled datasets, hindering scalability and adaptability. To address these challenges, we present a process monitoring and control framework that leverages pre-trained Large Language Models (LLMs) alongside 3D printers to detect and address printing defects. The LLM evaluates print quality by analyzing images captured after each layer or print segment, identifying failure modes and querying the printer for relevant parameters. It then generates and executes a corrective action plan. We validated the effectiveness of the proposed framework in identifying defects by comparing it against a control group of engineers with diverse AM expertise. Our evaluation demonstrated that LLM-based agents not only accurately identify common 3D printing errors, such as inconsistent extrusion, stringing, warping, and layer adhesion, but also effectively determine the parameters causing these failures and autonomously correct them without any need for human intervention.
The impact of increasing tree cover on landscape metrics and connectivity
Authors: Speak A. F. , Holt C. , Bispo P. A. , McHenry E. , Dennis M.
Published: September 2024

CONTEXT: The United Kingdom has a low percentage cover of woodland which exists in small, highly fragmented patches. Plans to increase the cover from 14.5% to 17.5% by 2050 will require guidance to help target the planting of new forests to maximise ecological connectivity.
OBJECTIVES: This study develops a novel approach to landscape simulation utilising real world spatial boundary data.
METHODS: Three different future woodland creation goals (+10,30 and 50 %) are tested in Colne Valley river watershed, alongside manipulations of the mean new patch size and the mode in which new woodland is created in relation to existing woodland.
RESULTS: Scenarios which expanded existing woodland and used riparian planting created larger, more connected patches with more core area. The model outputs are used to assess the impact of the UK woodland increase plans, and past woodland creation efforts are assessed.
CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that proximal growth offers the greatest benefits in terms of biodiversity, but in terms of habitat connectivity smaller isolated woodland patches may also be needed as stepping stones to aid dispersal.
Comprehensive Genetic Diversity Assessment of Promising Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Genotypes Using RAPD, ISSR, and iPBS Markers
Authors: Başak İbrahim , Muradoğlu Ferhad , Özer Göksel , Güler Emrah
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the genetic diversity and relationships among different walnut genotypes using three molecular markers: RAPD, ISSR, and iPBS. The RAPD markers produced 23 polymorphic bands, with an average of 7.77 bands per primer and a 75.53% polymorphism rate. ISSR markers generated 22 polymorphic fragments, averaging 8.50 fragments per primer with a 75.65% polymorphism rate. iPBS markers yielded 65 bands, with 72.39% being polymorphic and an average of 11.75 fragments per primer. The PIC values were highest for RAPD markers (average 0.31), followed by ISSR (0.25) and iPBS markers (0.22). RAPD markers also had the highest resolving power (RP) with an average value of 4.93, followed by iPBS (4.80) and ISSR markers (3.90). The diversity parameters, particularly the number of effective alleles, observed heterozygosity, and expected heterozygosity, indicated that the ISSR marker system exhibits the highest genetic diversity among the walnut genotypes. The Mantel test results showed significant correlations among the marker types, especially between iPBS markers and the combined marker analysis, emphasizing the importance of integrating multiple marker systems for a comprehensive assessment of genetic diversity. Clustering and Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) revealed consistent genetic relationships and clustering patterns, with certain genotypes showing close genetic affiliations across all marker systems. This study emphasizes the value of using a combination of molecular markers to gain a thorough understanding of genetic variability in walnut genotypes, essential for conservation and breeding efforts. Future research should continue to use multiple marker systems to further understand the genetic structure and diversity in walnuts and other economically important species.
Deep Reinforcement Learning based Path Planning with Dynamic Trust Region Optimization for Automotive Application
Authors: Arumugam Vengatesan , Alagumalai Vasudevan , Sriniva Venkataramanan
Published: September 2024

Graphical abstract
Abstract
Multi-robot path planning must adapt to difficult situations, allowing autonomous navigation in both static and dynamic barriers in complicated environments. However, defining the best planning strategies for certain applications remains unsolved. This study focused at three methods for learning complex robotic decision-making principles such as Trust Region Policy Optimization (TRPO), Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO), and Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL). Furthermore, proposed a novel technique for obstacle avoidance and autonomous navigation called Dynamic Improvement Trust Region Policy Optimization with Covariance Grid Adaptation (DITRPO-CGA). Initially, created the Dynamic Improvement Proximal Policy Optimization with Covariance Grid Adaptation (DIPPO-CGA) based on PPO to assure collision-free policies. Next, developed a DRL technique that integrates DIPPO-CGA, resulting in the DITRPO-CGA algorithm, which improved the flexibility of multi-robot systems in different situations. During training process, DIPPO-CGA is utilized to optimize the multi-robot multi-task policies, ensuring least distance obstacle avoidance and target completion. The proposed DIPPO-CGA algorithm reaches the target within minimum distance. The findings showed that when compared to PPO, TRPO, and DIPPO-CGA, the proposed DITRPO-CGA algorithm achieves a higher convergence rate, faster target achievement and reaches the positions more quickly.
Ion Sequential Therapy Aligned With Pathological Changes Enhances Cardiac Function After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ye Xiaofeng , Zhong Yiming , Zhang Zhaowenbin , Huang Shixing , Shen Ao , Qian Bei , Long Qiang , Qi Zhaoxi , He Xiaojun , Zhang Yecen , Chang Lan , Hai Wangxi , Wang Xinming , You Zhengwei , Zhao Qiang , Chang Jiang
Published: September 2024

Myocardial infarction can induce a microenvironmental imbalance of trace element ions within the human body. This study initially investigated the change patterns of zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) ions throughout the natural course of myocardial infarction. Our results uncovered temporal and spatial shifts in the levels of Zn and Cu ions. Leveraging these observed time-based ion variation patterns, we devised a Zn-Cu ion sequential therapy tailored to address the phased requirements of body for these trace elements after myocardial infarction. Zn-Cu ion sequential therapy exhibited significant efficacy in a rat model of myocardial infarction, effectively restoring cardiac function while enhancing cardiomyocyte metabolic activity. Its efficacy hinges on the capacity of Zn-Cu ion sequencing to precisely regulate the Period circadian protein homolog 2 (Per2), which is strikingly linked to the circadian rhythm. By sequentially administering Zn and Cu ions during different phases of myocardial infarction, we maintained elevated Per2 protein levels, fostering a more conducive environment for the repair of damaged cardiomyocytes. Based on the observed change patterns of Zn and Cu ion in the infarcted region, we subsequently introduced an in-situ Zn-Cu ion sequential therapy for myocardial infarction. Utilizing a perfusable multifunctional epicardial device (PerMed), we established a stable ion microenvironment "reservoir" within the infarcted zone. This design enables precise spatiotemporal regulation of ion concentration and balance, thereby optimizing cardiomyocyte repair and regeneration. In conclusion, this study presents an ion sequential therapy strategy that aligns with pathological changes arising from the altered microenvironment post-myocardial infarction. Furthermore, it offers a therapeutic concept for precise ion supplement to address ion imbalances arising from various other diseases.
Buyer Beware: confounding factors and biases abound when predicting omics-based biomarkers from histological images
Authors: Dawood Muhammad , Branson Kim , Tejpar Sabine , Rajpoot Nasir , Minhas Fayyaz
Published: September 2024

Recent advances in computational pathology have introduced deep learning methods to predict molecular biomarkers from routine histology whole slide images (WSIs). In this work, we identify and report some key limitations of these approaches, including the oversight of biomarkers interdependencies during model training and inference. Through statistical analysis, we first demonstrate significant interdependencies among molecular factors, revealing both pathobiologically driven associations and potential spurious correlations that vary across datasets. Subsequently, through permutation testing and stratification analysis, we showed that the predictive performance of WSI-based predictors for a certain biomarker is contingent on the status of other biomarkers, particularly those exhibiting mutually exclusive or co-occurring patterns. For instance, models trained using standard approaches to predict progesterone receptor status in breast tumours perform no better than random guessing (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.50) in cases with CDH1 mutations. This suggests that due to significant interdependencies among molecular factors in the training data, these models capture aggregated influences rather than predicting individual biomarker status independently. Additionally, we found that the predictive accuracy of WSI-based models varies across patient subgroups with different histological grades or mutational loads. Furthermore, we demonstrate that for certain biomarkers, predictions from deep learning models offer little advantage over simpler models based on pathologist-assigned grade information. Our findings over a large multi-institutional dataset of patients (n = 8,221) suggest revisiting model training protocols to consider biomarker interdependencies at all stages, from problem definition to usage guidelines. This includes selecting diverse datasets to reflect clinical heterogeneity, defining prediction variables or grouping patients based on co-dependencies, designing models to disentangle complex relationships, and stringent stratification testing. Clinically, failing to recognise such model errors can lead to suboptimal decisions, necessitating appropriate usage guidelines for predictive models.
Metagenomic analysis of a glacial ice core record from the contiguous United States
Authors: Kvitko Brian , Wallace Jason , Desai Hanish Vasudev , Lavender Heather F. , Mijatovic Jovana , Techtmann Stephen , Christner Brent C. , Smith Amy
Published: September 2024

Glacial ice preserves time-sequenced records of preserved microbes, offering access to historic pre-anthropic metagenomes. As proof-of-concept, we three tested methods to recover ancient DNA from a ~250-year ice core from Wyoming's Upper Fremont Glacier for metagenomic sequencing. Direct amplification of filter-concentrated melt water (eDNA) was a simple and effective method for metagenomics. We observed higher microbial diversity, enriched nitrogen-cycling genes, and higher abundance of Nitrosopira, Rhodanobacter and Polaromonas sequences in 1790 CE samples compared to 1900-1961 CE samples. The documented microbial variation may be attributable to changes in climate and land use over the last two centuries.
Der ‹Homo digitalis› und seine Spezies im Anthropozän
Authors: Schenk Sabrina
Published: September 2024

Die Figur des ‹Homo digitalis› kann als anthropologische Resonanz angesehen werden auf die seit einigen Jahren intensiv geführten Debatten um die digitale Transformation von Technologien und Medienkonstellationen. Bio-, Nano- und Geo-Technologien dringen weit in das vor, was bislang als ‹Natur› galt und was die menschlichen Ressourcen und seine Umwelt bezeichnet hat, aber auch seinen eigenen kreatürlichen Anteil. Die humanen Möglichkeiten werden dabei so weit über ihre Grenzen hinaus verschoben, dass sie als Auflösungserscheinungen des ‹homo sapiens› wahrgenommen werden. Mit der anthropologischen Figur des ‹Homo digitalis› lassen sich zum einen damit verbundene Befürchtungen in den Blick nehmen, zum anderen ist sie eingebunden in Gegenwartsdiagnosen, mit deren Begriffen ‹Anthropozän›, ‹Posthumanismus› oder auch ‹kybernetischer Naturzustand› sich jeweils unterschiedliche Aussagen über die Stellung des Menschen verbinden.Die ‹Genese› des ‹Homo digitalis› lässt sich über die Rekonstruktion der historischen Reflexion über (Körper- und Geist-)Maschinen als ‹Spiegel des Menschen› nachzeichnen. Anhand von zwei aktuellen Theoriesprachen lassen sich sowohl die besondere Morphologie des ‹Homo digitalis› als auch die Rolle seiner Spezies angesichts der Gleichzeitigkeit von Technologisierung und Umweltzerstörung aufklären. Eine kybernetische bzw. medienökologische Perspektive macht dabei deutlich, dass es keine Zeit vor der Verbindung von Mensch und Maschine gegeben hat, der Weg hinter die Technisierung ‹zurück› also eine Illusion ist. Darauf baut auch eine posthumanistische Perspektive auf, wenn sie neue Beschreibungsweisen für die Wahrnehmung des techno-sozialen Zusammenhangs entwickelt, um die spezifischen Konstellationen und Bedingungen zu erhellen, in denen sich der ‹Homo digitalis› bewegt.
ESTUDO DO PROCESSO DE FABRICAÇÃO DE BISCOITO DE POLVILHO
Authors: Fonseca Fernanda Isabela , Ferreira Mariana Félix , Couto Renan Evangelista
Published: September 2024

O presente artigo trata de um estudo de caso realizado em uma fábrica de biscoitos, localizada na cidade de Lajinha (MG). O objetivo foi estudar o processo de fabricação de um de seus produtos, o biscoito de polvilho. Através da observação direta e entrevistas, foi verificado que a fabricação do biscoito de polvilho, a partir da seleção da matéria-prima, percorre as áreas funcionais da cozinha, corte, forno, descanso, empacotamento e estoque. Também foram estudados alguns tempos de produção, arranjo físico das áreas funcionais e funcionamento de máquinas e equipamentos, assuntos relacionados ao projeto dos métodos de trabalho.
In Vivo Models of Steroid-Induced Intraocular Hypertension
Authors: Tang Wanyu , Dang Yalong
Published: September 2024

:

Corticosteroids are widely utilized for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive
properties but often lead to ocular complications, including ocular hypertension. If untreated, ocular
hypertension can progress to optic nerve atrophy and eventually result in steroid-induced glaucoma,
which poses a risk of irreversible visual damage. Approximately 40% of individuals experience
increased intraocular pressure after steroid use, and around 6% develop glaucoma. Although
steroid-induced glaucoma is usually temporary and reversible if the treatment duration is under a
year, prolonged exposure can cause permanent vision impairment. The pathogenesis of steroid-induced
glaucoma is suggested to arise from increased outflow resistance of aqueous humor, primarily
due to decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinases. This deficiency promotes the deposition
of extracellular matrix and the dysfunction of trabecular meshwork cells. Additionally, modifications
in the actin cytoskeleton increase the stiffness and alter the morphology of trabecular meshwork,
further impeding aqueous humor outflow. Molecular changes, such as elevated expression
of the MYOC gene, have also been implicated in restricting aqueous outflow. Various animal models,
including rats, mice, primates, rabbits, cattle, sheep, cats, and dogs, have been developed to
study steroid-induced glaucoma. These models exhibit pathological, pathophysiological, and
molecular similarities to human disease, making them valuable for research. This review aims to
summarize common animal models of steroid-induced ocular hypertension, discussing their advantages
and limitations. The goal is to help researchers select appropriate models for future studies,
thereby advancing the understanding of disease mechanisms and developing preventive strategies.
Exploring Tryptophan-based Short Peptides: Promising Candidate for Anticancer and Antimicrobial Therapies
Authors: Rai Neha , Tiwari Richa Tripathy , Sahu Adarsh , Verma Ekta , Rathore Swati , Patil Shailendra , Patil Asmita Gajbhiye
Published: September 2024

Background:

Ultra-short peptides are essential therapeutic agents due to their heightened selectivity
and reduced toxicity. Scientific literature documents the utilization of dipeptides, tripeptides, and tetrapeptides as
promising agents for combating cancer. We have created a range of tryptophan-based peptides derived from
literature sources in order to assess their potential as anticancer drugs.

Methods:

We present the results of our study on the antibacterial and anticancer effectiveness of 10 ultra-short
peptides that were produced utilizing microwave-assisted solid phase peptide synthesis. The synthesized peptides
underwent screening for in vitro antibacterial activity using the agar dilution method.

Results:

HPLC, LC-MS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopy were used to analyze the synthesized peptides. In
tests using the HeLa and MCF-7 cell lines, the synthesized peptides' anticancer efficacy was assessed. The study
found that two peptides showed potential median inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 3.9±0.13 μM and
1.8±0.09 μM, respectively, and showed more activity than the reference medication doxorubicin.

Conclusion:

The antibacterial activity of synthesized peptides 3b and 4b was found to be better than the other
synthetic peptides. MIC value of roughly 5–50 μg/mL for peptides 3a, 4c, and 4d showed strong antifungal activity
against Candida albicans. The synthesized peptides were also evaluated for their anticancer activity against
HeLa and MCF-7 cell lines, and found that peptides 3e and 4e were more potent than other peptides against doxorubicin.
Sedimentation Analysis Study in Lake Tondano Due to the Development of the Surrounding Area
Authors: Hendratta Liany Amelia , Laurentia Susilawati Cicilia , KOH Deuk Koo , Monica La’la , Ratu Yosua Aditya
Published: September 2024

Background

Population growth has increased the need for food, putting great pressure on the environment. This has triggered economic development and land use alternation, which have a major impact on the hydrological cycle. Natural and human factors have impacted the water catchment area of uncontrolled land cover changes in Lake Tondano, which is shallow from a depth of 36 meters to 14 meters due to soil erosion.

Objective

This research emphasizes the assessment of the lake, considering the efforts of conservation and analyzing its influence on the erosion rate and shallowing of the lake. The impact of land use dynamics on sedimentation is essential in providing alternative efforts for land conservation and, subsequently, optimum utilization.

Methods

The analyzing process requires rainfall data and land use maps, including soil type maps and land slope data, while the process itself is assisted by spreadsheets and GIS. In addition, the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) and Sediment Delivery Ratio (SDR) model deliver the expected result of the total sediment production entering the lake.

Results

The calculated total value of actual sediment production governs the thickness of sediment deposition at the bottom of the lake.

Conclusion

The research concludes that the thickness of sediment deposition at lake bottom can be resolved by the total value of actual sediment production, whereas the value is analyzed from the USLE and SDR models previously correlated to bathymetry measurement.
Investigating the Relationship between the General Health of Mothers and their Maternal Performance following Vaginal Childbirth
Authors: Izaddoost Niloufar , Parsaie Sahar , Choobdarnezhad Masoumeh , Pezaro Sally , Amiri-Farahani Leila
Published: September 2024

Background

Birthing parents need to use specialized skills as the first caregivers of the newborn. Several factors may affect maternal performance, the general health of the birthing parent (e.g., mother) being one of them. Yet, there is a paucity of research in this area, particularly in Iran, and evidence remains inconsistent. Consequently, this study aimed to determine any correlations between maternal performance and the general health of mothers following vaginal childbirth in the context of Iran.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with people identifying as mothers (n = 450) who had given birth (< two months) and been referred for the vaccination of their newborn. The multi-stage sampling method was carried out from April 2022 to February 2023. Participants who met the inclusion criteria completed a demographic and obstetric information questionnaire, along with the Barkin maternal performance and general health questionnaire. To investigate the relationship between maternal performance and the general health of the mothers, an independent t-test analysis was conducted . The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

The mean age of participants was 26.78, and the mean total score of maternal performance was 91.04 (0 - 120). The highest and lowest scores related to the ‘maternal competence’ and the ‘maternal needs’ domains, respectively. Overall, 76.89% of participants had a favorable general health condition (a score of less than 3.5 is considered favorable). There was no statistically significant difference identified in terms of maternal performance scores between those with a favorable and those with an unfavorable general health status.

Conclusion

Although the results of the present study did not show a significant relationship between the general health of mothers and maternal performance, this research builds on a growing body of evidence in the context of Iran. Despite recording high maternal performance scores in this sample, it will be important to enhance and maintain good mental health in all childbearing people, particularly following vaginal childbirth, as it is this which will enhance care and outcomes overall.
Studi Hubungan antar Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Pendapatan Petani Kentang di Kabupaten Gowa untuk Pembangunan Berkelanjutan dalam rangka menunjang Ketahanan Pangan Nasional
Authors: Dwianto Agus
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini menganalisis bagaimana luas lahan, modal, dan hasil produksi mempengaruhi pendapatan petani adalah tujuan dari budidaya kentang, dalam konteks Desa Kanreapia di Kabupaten Gowa. Tujuannya adalah untuk mengungkap dinamika spesifik yang mempengaruhi pendapatan petani kentang di Kabupaten Gowa dalam rangka menunjang ketahanan pangan nasional. Keunikan penelitian ini terletak pada dinamika di Desa Kanreapia, yang dapat memberikan kontribusi pengetahuan dan keilmuan yang berbeda dari pengetahuan yang sudah ada saat ini. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis regresi untuk menilai signifikansi statistik dari luas lahan, modal, dan produksivitas pertanian terhadap pendapatan petani. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa luas lahan dan modal tidak mempengaruhi, sementara hasil produksi dan pendapatan menunjukan nilai positif signifikan. Implikasi praktis dari penelitian ini adalah dapat menjadi rekomondasi bagi para pembuat kebijakan dan praktisi yang terlibat dalam pembangunan pertanian berkelanjutan, dan memberikan strategi untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan finansial petani kentang di Indonesia.
‘Unlearning this Desire to Vanish': Rape, Illness, and the Politics of Testimony in Lucia Osborne-Crowley’s I Choose Elena and Amy Berkowitz’s Tender Points
Authors: Marqués-López Isabel
Published: September 2024

In recent years, life writing by survivors of sexual violence has attempted to contest the stigma of shame traditionally attached to women’s testimony. Among these authors, disabled and chronically ill survivors find themselves doubly marginalized by the patriarchal discourses prevalent in culture and medical spaces. For this reason, in their writing, they vindicate political and ethical approaches to their condition, based on emphasizing their bodily experience against the silencing of culture and institutions. This essay looks at Lucia Osborne Crowley’s I Choose Elena (2019) and Amy Berkowitz’s Tender Points (2015) as two examples of memoirs exploring the intersections between sexual trauma and chronic illnesses like endometriosis and fibromyalgia, as well as the possibilities for writing to contest stigma and move towards an ethical audience, inside and outside medical spaces. In their memoirs, these authors expose the physical, socioeconomic, and institutional boundaries that they encounter while vindicating political and engaged ways to live in their bodies.