bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Kuliah Praktisi pada MK Kimia Polimer terhadap Capaian Pembelajaran, Motivasi dan Minat Belajar Mahasiswa
Authors: Musawwa Muhammad Miqdam Musawwa
Published: January 2025

Kimia termasuk bidang ilmu yang menjadi pondasi perkembangan sains dan teknologi. Banyak inovasi teknologi berasal dari penelitian kimia, tidak terkecuali di bidang polimer. Mata Kuliah Kimia Polimer (MK-KP) menjadi salah satu MK wajib di Prodi Kimia UII. Dalam penelitian ini, kuliah praktisi diselenggarakan untuk MK-KP dengan tujuan meningkatkan wawasan mahasiswa tentang teknologi terkini, aplikasi polimer pada sektor industri. Kuliah praktisi diselenggarakan sebanyak 7x pertemuan secara daring. Penyelenggaraan kuliah praktisi ini melibatkan PT Aristek Highpolymer Bekasi sebagai mitra industri dari Prodi Kimia UII. Pengaruh kuliah praktisi ini dievaluasi terhadap ketercapaian CPMK, minat dan motivasi mahasiswa dalam MK-KP. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa seluruh mahasiswa berhasil mencapai CPMK MK-KP. Mahasiswa juga menunjukkan minat dan motivasi yang tinggi dalam mengikuti perkuliahan praktisi dengan persentase masing-masing 75% dan 81%. Penelitian ini mendukung kuliah praktisi secara daring untuk dilaksanakan di MK lain.
A seasonal phenological study of the temperate fern Cystopteris fragilis
Authors: Anderson O. Roger
Published: January 2025

Cystopteris fragilis L., a desiccation-tolerant fern species growing on a stone wall (Palisades, NY), was studied from April to September 2024 to document leaf phenological development during a season favorable for growth. The first leaves (ca. 5–7 cm in length) emerged in April. Mature, sori-bearing leaves (15–30 cm in length) appeared in June and persisted until late September, when the majority either dehisced or became dry and decumbent. In June, leaves had a mean specific leaf area of 269.97 ± 12.93, a mean chlorophyll concentration index of 3.56 ± 0.35, and a mean maximum photosynthesis rate of 3.90 ± 0.28 µmol m−2 s−1. Mean stomatal length was 41 ± 0.60 µm, and mean width was 26 ± 0.37 µm. Mean stomatal density in mature leaves was 4,000 ± 200. By September, the mean maximum photosynthesis rate had decreased to 2.30 ± 0.20 µmol m−2 s−1. With respect to leaf fluorescence data, there was a small but statistically nonsignificant decline in mean Fv/Fm during September. Among the more significant findings is the relatively major change in the physiological parameters of this species during autumn, particularly the decline in electron transport variables (ETo/RC and ψ0) in autumn compared with summer (p < 0.05), coupled with a somewhat lower efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm). These changes may contribute to the decline in the photosynthesis rate observed during the transition into dormancy of this desiccation-tolerant species.
From Neurons to Organisations: Awakening Regenerative Leadership through Neuroplasticity, AI, and Integrative Consciousness
Authors: Ooi Rachel Wei Gee
Published: January 2025

The unprecedented challenges of the Anthropocene, such as climate change, social inequality, and rapid technological disruption, have shaped an era where traditional leadership models are increasingly inadequate for navigating complexity and driving systemic change. This paper talks about Regenerative Leadership, a model that changes things for the better using neuroplasticity intelligence, AI to help with decisions, and the AHA SHIFT framework. It gives leaders the flexibility, ethical leadership, cultural change, and systemic thinking they need for long-term success. By aligning organizational growth with societal well-being, this model provides a pathway for fostering innovation, collaboration, and human-centric development.
 
Central to this leadership paradigm is the Trinity Growth Model, which anchors the Awakening phase in the personal transformation of leaders through coaching, neuroplasticity-based practices, and cognitive rewiring. These practices cultivate cognitive flexibility and emotional resilience, enabling leaders to respond to uncertainty and vulnerability while driving systemic change. Leveraging AI as a decision-making tool further enhances leadership by mitigating cognitive biases and providing real-time, data-driven insights, ensuring that decisions align with ethical and sustainability goals.
 
The **5Ps framework—People, Planet, Prosperity, Partnership, and Purpose** serves as the foundation of regenerative leadership, redefining success by expanding its focus beyond profitability to encompass societal impact, ethical governance, and environmental stewardship. Drawing on empirical research and case studies from diverse pioneering organizations, this paper demonstrates how regenerative leadership can transform industries in depth by fostering purpose-driven innovation and cross-sector collaboration.
 
Finally, this research introduces a Regenerative Leadership Playbook, offering actionable strategies for cultivating integrative consciousness in leadership development. We propose future research directions to explore the wider effects of regenerative leadership on organizational performance, leadership adaptability, and societal outcomes. By providing a roadmap for scaling regenerative leadership across diverse industries, this paper envisions a future where leaders drive systemic change and long-term sustainability, ensuring resilience and prosperity for humanity in the Anthropocene.
Strategies for the Transformation of Waste Cooking Oils into High Value Products: A Critical Review
Authors: Beghetto Valentina
Published: January 2025

Waste Cooking Oils (WCOs) ARE produced in large quantities worldwide from hospitality, household and other industrial compartments. Today many Countries have no specific legislation regarding WCOs management, generating a crucial environmental problem. Presently WCOs are mainly employed by industry as feedstock for biodiesel and energy production. Nevertheless, the use of WCOs as a primary feedstock for second generation biodiesel production depends on its availability, and often import of biodiesel or WCOs from other countries is required. Additionally, the EU is pushing towards the privileged use of biowaste for alternative high value products, other than biodiesel, to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Thus, the aim of this review is to give an overall comprehensive panorama of the production, impacts, regulations and restrictions affecting WCOs, and their possible uses to produce high value materials such as bio lubricants, bio surfactants, polymers and polymer additives, road and construction additives, bio solvents among others. Interestingly many reviews have been reported in the literature addressing the use of WCOs for the preparation of a specific class of polymer, but a general comprehensive review on the argument is missing.
Extracranial Vascular Arterial Stiffness Contributes to Cerebral Small Vessel Disease, Stroke, and Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hayden Melvin R , Tyagi Neetu
Published: January 2025

Cerebrocardiovascular disease(s) (CCVD) including coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, and stroke are the number one cause of mortality. Structural and functional properties of the vascular arterial wall play an important role in creating extracranial vascular arterial stiffness (VAS). VAS has emerged as a marker of risk for aging, dementia, vascular contributions to impaired cognition and dementia (VCID), stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic), misfolded proteins (amyloid beta and tau) deposition, neurodegeneration, brain atrophy, and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. VAS is associated with increased oxidative redox stress, inflammation, vascular remodeling and calcification, increased pulse pressure, increased pulse wave velocity, and systolic hypertension, which serves as part of the multiple injurious stimuli to vulnerable neurovascular unit capillaries with high flow and low resistance. Notably, advanceing age, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and vascular calcification are the most common causes of VAS. VAS contributes to cerebral small vessel disease and chronic cerebral hypoperfusion that is capable of instigating neurodegeneration, brain atrophy, and late onset Alzheimer’s disease. This narrative review discusses the evidence that links VAS and microvessel cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) to brain structural and functional abnormalities via a heart, vascular, brain (HVB) axis, which leads to SVD, neurodegeneration, brain atrophy, impaired cognition, and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Valorizing Organic Waste Through Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens): A Sustainable Solution for Aquafeeds with Key Nutrients and Natural Bioactive Polyphenols
Authors: Camperio Julio , Simonton Justin , Paresky Eli , Parodi Jorge , Suarez Jorge A. , Benetti Daniel D.
Published: January 2025

Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL), Hermetia illucens, present a transformative approach to sustainable aquaculture and waste management by converting organic waste into nutrient-rich biomass. This study highlights BSFL-derived products as a sustainable alternative for aquafeeds, delivering essential nutrients and significant concentrations of bioactive and antioxidative polyphenols. We evaluated five organic waste types—Kitchen Waste (KW), Agricultural Waste (AW), Aquaculture Sludge (AS), Aquaculture Offal (AO), and a Mixed diet (MX)—assessing their impact on BSFL growth, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), bioconversion, Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER), survival, and nutritional composition, including Total Polyphenol Concentration (TPC). This is the first report to document and quantify the transfer of polyphenols from waste substrates to larvae, showing that larvae fed plant-based feeds contained significantly higher (5.8 - 7.4 mg GAE/100g) TPC than those fed with an animal-based feed (0.60 - 0.9 mg GAE/100g) (p < 0.05). Our findings emphasize the potential of BSFL to integrate waste valorization into circular economy frameworks, reduce organic waste, and enhance aquafeeds’ functional properties, contributing to ocean sustainability and the global transition to more sustainable aquaculture practices.
Curvature-Induced Electrical Properties of Two-Dimensional Electrons on Carbon Nanotube Springs
Authors: Charoenpakdee Jakkapong , Hutem Artit , Boonchui Sutee
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the mechanisms driving current flow in carbon nanotube (CNT) springs under mechanical strain, addressing the critical gap between experimental observations and theoretical modeling, particularly in asymmetric electrical responses. Leveraging the Dirac equation in curved spacetime, we analyze how curvature-induced scalar and pseudo-gauge potentials shape the behavior of two-dimensional electron gases confined to the curved surfaces of CNT springs. By incorporating time-dependent variations in the Lamé coefficient and curvature parameter, we propose an adiabatic evolution model to characterize strain-induced electronic behavior and develop an equivalent circuit model linking mechanical deformation to electronic dynamics.
The analysis reveals asymmetric electrical responses, including time-dependent currents during stretching and compression cycles, driven by curvature-induced vector potential variations. Fourier analysis uncovers frequency components and phase relationships that explain these asymmetries. Theoretical predictions are validated against experimental data, highlighting curvature-driven energy band shifts, enhanced power output during stretching phases (peaking near 100 Hz), and a proportional relationship between strain and charge storage. These results not only provide a comprehensive theoretical framework for understanding strain-modulated electronic behavior but also underscore the potential of CNT springs in energy harvesting, wearable electronics, and advanced sensing applications. By bridging experimental observations and modeling, this study establishes a foundation for optimizing CNT springs in next-generation electromechanical systems.
Development of a Daycare Center Service Model for the Elderly Through Community Participation: An Action Research Approach
Authors: Pilayon Benjayamas , Chueaduangpui Kanin , Saentho Juthaluck , Kongmant Ruchakron , Turnbull Niruwan
Published: January 2025

Introduction: This study aimed to develop a service model for daycare centers for the elderly through community participation using participatory action research methods. The objectives were threefold: (1) to investigate the current situation of the elderly in the community and their needs for daycare center services, (2) to develop a daycare center for the elderly with active community involvement, and (3) to evaluate the effectiveness of the service delivery at the daycare center for the elderly. Methods: The study was conducted in Ban Kho Sub district, Phon Sawan District, Nakhon Phanom Province. Research participants included 210 elderly individuals surveyed to assess their situation, and 15 key informants, including elderly club leaders, sub district health promotion hospital staff, volunteers, sub district administrative organization officers, and village health volunteers, were specifically selected for in-depth insights. The research process was structured into three phases: Phase 1 focused on studying the situation of the elderly in the community and their service needs; Phase 2 was dedicated to developing the daycare center with community participation; and Phase 3 involved evaluating the service delivery of the daycare center. Results: The results indicated that the development process of the daycare center service model for the elderly, through community participation, involved four key mechanisms: elderly clubs, sub district health promotion hospitals, volunteer teachers or technicians, and village volunteers. Additionally, the supporting mechanisms included academic institutions, hospitals, temples, village heads, the Non-Formal Education Center, foundations, and the sub district administrative organization. The comprehensive service model encompassed five components: health, social, psychological, economic, and environmental aspects. Conclusion: The study successfully developed a daycare center service model for the elderly through community participation, which can be expanded and adapted to other semi-urban and semi-rural contexts. This model demonstrates the importance of community involvement in providing holistic care for the elderly, addressing various aspects of their well-being.
Effect of Treatment on Steroidome in Women with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Hill Martin , Kancheva Radmila , Velíková Marta , Kančeva Ludmila , Včelák Josef , Ampapa Radek , Židó Michal , Štětkářová Ivana , Libertínová Jana , Vosátková Michala , Vítků Jana , Kolátorová Lucie , Škodová Tereza , Kubala Havrdová Eva
Published: January 2025

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system. The manifestation of MS is related to steroid changes during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. As data focusing on the effect of anti-MS drug treatment on steroidome are scarce, we evaluated steroidomic changes (79 steroids) in 60 female MS patients of reproductive age 39 (29, 47) years (median with quartiles) after treatment with anti-MS drugs on the GC-MS/MS platform and immunoassays (cortisol and estradiol). The changes were assessed using steroid levels and steroid molar ratios that may reflect activities of steroidogenic enzymes (SMRs). A repeated measures ANOVA followed by multiple comparisons and OPLS models were used for statistical analyses. The anti-MS treatment decreased steroid levels in follicular phase. Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) such as ofatumumab and ocrelizumab, inhibitors of the sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor (S1PRI), and IFNβ-1a decreased circulating 17-hydroxy-pregnanes and shifted the CYP17A1 functioning from the hydroxylase- toward the lyase step. Decreased conjugated/unconjugated steroid ratios were found after treatment with anti-MS drugs, especially for glatiramer acetate and anti-CD20 mAb. In the luteal phase, IFN-β1a treatment increased steroidogenesis, and both IFN-β1a and ocrelizumab increased AKR1D1 and S1PRI increased SRD5A functioning. Anti-CD20 mAb reduced the functioning of enzymes catalyzing the synthesis of immunomodulatory 7α/β and 16α-hydroxy-androgens, which may affect the severity of MS. The above findings may be important concerning the alterations in bioactive steroids such as cortisol, active androgens and estrogens, neuroactive, neuroprotective and immunomodulatory steroids in terms of optimization of anti-MS treatment.
Transformasi Spiritual dalam Haul Wali: Perspektif Fenomenologi Alfred Schutz Pada Jemaah Abah Guru Sekumpul
Authors: Pratama Muhammad Yogy Qorri Dwi , Mahzumi Fikri
Published: January 2025

The tradition of Haul KH. Muhammad Zaini Bin Abdul Ghani (Abah Guru Sekumpul) in Martapura, south Kalimantan is a phenomenon of contemporary religiousness in Indonesia. This haul tradition has attracted the attention of muslims from various religious, cities dan countries. Abah Guru Sekumpul is a charismatic figure that some muslims believe as a guardian, so that after his death, thousands of muslims attended his haul. This article aims to discover the aspects of spiritual transformation in the congregation by focusing o the personal motives of congregations using the phenomenological theory of Alfred Schutz. This research method uses qualitative research methods. The case study approach became the basis of this study by using data from observations and interviews on key sources of a number of six people. The results of this study show that there are aspects that influence the spiritual transformation of the congregation based on personal motives. There are aspects that affect the spirituality of the congregation both subjectively and objectively. The haul tradition has spiritual motives and financial motives.
Plan de negocio para una empresa de elaboración de jabones personalizados “Meraki” en la ciudad de Lima metropolitana
Authors:   , Torres Ramirez Christopher Jean Piere
Published: January 2025

Se precisa que el presente trabajo es su calidad de Plan de Negocios, se concibe debido a que la actividad comercial en la actualidad ha logrado altos niveles de desarrollo, es por eso la finalidad de la creación del negocio para contribuir con la economía del país, para ello se realizó un estudio de mercado dando por concluida la factibilidad de dicho negocio que es la comercialización de jabones artesanales, satisfaciendo los más exigentes usuarios, donde el percutor de los objetivos empresariales será buscar satisfacer los deseos de los clientes con cada compra y demás celebraciones que ameriten un presente, es allí donde se da nombre a la empresa de sociedad anónima cerrada de jabones artesanales MERAKI S.A.C.
Se debe precisar que la producción de jabón no resulta difícil de producir, pero requiere un cuidado a fin de generar fragancias en los jabones, colores atractivos, texturas suaves y agradables al tacto, con el fin de lograr satisfacer y cautivar a los clientes, se precisa que la fabricación de jabones naturales no es compleja y en el mercado nacional aun es un mercado nuevo para explotar.
Asimismo, se señala que él se conoce que los compuestos del jabón tienen beneficios los cuales sirven para combatir bacterias y microbios, ello contribuye a prevenir enfermedades ayuda a contrarrestar focos infecciosos, por ello se considera al jabón como el principal producto de higiene personal que debe contar cada hogar y debe ser usado por todas las personas de manera recurrente. La empresa desea lograr poder posicionar nuestra marca, diferenciándose por la creatividad y la buena atención, para así a la par ir obteniendo ganancias y poder lograr nuestros objetivos como empresa y como personas...
Diferencias entre el área rural y urbana en el Perú respecto a factores asociados a anemia en niños durante el periodo 2016-2021
Authors:   , Vasquez Akajosi Bruno Sebastian , Sabaducci Carrera Fabrizio
Published: January 2025

Objetivos. Determinar si existen diferencias entre el área urbana y rural en los factores asociados a anemia en niños peruanos durante los años 2016 al 2021. Materiales y Métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional descriptivo transversal retrospectivo utilizando datos secundarios de la "Encuesta Demográfica y de Salud Familiar - ENDES" de los años 2016 a 2021. El diagnóstico de anemia se basó en los valores de referencia de hemoglobina establecidos por la OMS. El análisis y manejo de los datos se realizaron con el software estadístico IBM SPSS versión 27.0, teniendo en cuenta las características del diseño y muestreo complejo de la ENDES en todos los análisis realizados. Resultados. Los niveles de anemia en niños menores de cinco años han mostrado ligeras variaciones con una tendencia a la disminución para el año 2021, con predominancia de casos leves, seguidos por los moderados, y una proporción mucho menor de casos severos. En las áreas urbanas, el principal factor de riesgo es estar en la categoría de pobreza o extrema pobreza, mientras que en las áreas rurales, el mayor factor de riesgo es ser masculino. Además, en ambas zonas, un factor de riesgo clave para que un niño tenga anemia es que la madre no tenga educación formal o solo haya completado la educación primaria, así como la edad del niño, especialmente entre 6 y 23 meses. Conclusiones. Durante el período 2016-2021, en el Perú se muestra un decrecimiento en la incidencia de anemia en niños pequeños, teniendo como principales factores de riesgo bajos niveles económicos en la zona urbana, ser un hijo varón en la zona rural y ser menor de dos años y tener madres con bajo nivel educativo en ambas zonas.
El reconocimiento expreso de la potestad decisoria de los convivientes en las exequias
Authors:   , Bautista Mascaro Jose Luis , Llamoca Quispe Gloria Angelica
Published: January 2025

En este trabajo de investigación, se aborda desde un enfoque dogmático la necesidad de reconocer expresamente los derechos de las parejas de unión de hecho en relación con las exequias reguladas en el artículo 13 del Código Civil Peruano. Aunque en los últimos años hubo avances legislativos que reconocieron derechos para los convivientes, la falta de reconocimiento explícito en cuanto a actos funerarios crea una brecha legal y limita el acceso a la justicia en momentos tan delicados como la muerte de un ser querido. Es por ello que, a través de un análisis conceptual, jurídico y comparativo, se plantea la idea de que los convivientes son merecedores de igual consideración y respeto para ser titulares del mencionado derecho. Finalmente, conforme a los argumentos expuestos, se fundamentan las conclusiones y soluciones correspondientes.
The Effectiveness of Using Smalltalk2me AI in Teaching Speaking Skills
Authors: Maulidianti Irma , Berliana Narisa , Yuliana Yohanes Gatot Sutapa
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study is to find out the effectiveness of using Smalltalk2me AI in teaching speaking skills to secondary students. This quantitative research implemented a one-group pretest-posttest pre-experimental design. The collection of data process consisted of three steps: pre-test, treatment, and post-test. Then the researchers found the results of students’ achievement after they were taught by using Smalltalk2me AI. This research used Microsoft Excel to analyze the data by looking for the mean, standard deviation, T-test value, and T-test table. The findings of this study revealed that the average of the post-test was higher than the average of the pretest (30,75>41). It means that this study discovered a significant or substantial difference between the pre-test and post-test scores for students who had been taught by using Smalltalk2me AI. Therefore, it is possible to infer that Smalltalk2me AI is an excellent tool to teach speaking skills since tenth-grade students at SMA 1 Sajingan could be more active in speaking with high accuracy and great fluency.
Linguistic Landscape Study of Commercial Intra-city Vehicle Inscriptions in African City
Authors: Bukari Francis
Published: January 2025

Universally, an understanding of the Linguistic Landscape (LL) of a group of people is crucial to understanding their language behavioural traits. The study was purposed on exploring the LL of commercial intra-city vehicles in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of Ghana. This single case study with embedded units utilised the multi-stage sampling technique, and the sources of data were: 1) responses from in-depth interviews from some of the commercial intra-city vehicle drivers and 2) the respective inscriptions. An interview guide and an iPhone 12 mobile phone (for pictures) were used to elicit the data. The in-depth interview data were analyzed using Creswell and Poth’s (2018) Analysis Spiral Plan, whereas the signages were analyzed using content analysis. The findings projected a situation where no attention was paid to the indigenous Ahanta language, but rather, major preference was given to the Mfantse and the English languages. The commercial intra-city vehicle drivers cited easy readability and comprehension of the messages as their reasons for preferring the English language. The implication of the study is that the Ahanta language, the indigenous language in Sekondi-Takoradi is endangered. Resultantly, the authorities of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly should work closely with the Ministry of Local Government to heighten individuals’ use of the Ahanta language to save it from death. Also, this calls into sharp attention the need for stakeholders in other jurisdictions to work to improve the use of endangered languages to protect them from extinction.
Language, Power, and Ideology on Joe Biden's Speech: A Critical Discourse Analysis
Authors: Amanda Rifa Alya , Handayani Tuty
Published: January 2025

This study examines Joe Biden's speech delivered during his visit to a Steamfitters training facility in Virginia by using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). This research aims to analyze the substance of Biden's speech in the economic sector by examining the text and sociocultural context, using qualitative research methodology by applying Norman Fairclough's framework of critical discourse analysis. Fairclough's Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) comprises three fundamental components: texts, discourse practices, and sociocultural practices. By using this theory, it is clear that Biden's diction includes specific word categorization through modality, repetition, and the use of first-person singular pronouns to show his full authority and power and to criticize Congressional Republicans. In addition, Biden's speech also served as a political speech and strategic means to rally citizens' support in the United States.
Morphological Analysis of Fashion Terms in Vogue’s Website Article
Authors: Silalahi Elisa Debora
Published: January 2025

Language has evolved into a powerful depiction of the changes and evolutions occurring in the continually expanding fashion business. It is particularly identifiable in the vocabulary employed in the fashion industry, which is getting increasingly sophisticated in both structure and usage. This research aims to examine the word formation process of fashion terminology. As qualitative research, this research utilizes seven articles taken from the Vogue website published between the 5th and 7th of May related to the Coronation of King Charles III as data sources. Applying the word formation process proposed by Yule (2020) reveals that four types of word formation processes occur in 22 fashion terminology: derivation, compounding, borrowing, and multiple processes. The dominance of compounding highlights that fashion items undergo modifications in their type based on the compound terms' heads. Furthermore, the process with the second-highest number is derivation, which was created to meet a constant demand to represent new concepts in fashion terminology. Furthermore, the borrowing process reveals that all loanwords originated in French. It is supported by the fact that Paris, the French capital, is renowned as Europe's fashion center. Furthermore, the last process in this research is multiple processes, which involve two processes: borrowing and compounding.
A Hybrid Theoretical-Numerical-Experimental Framework for Robust Health Monitoring of Thin-Walled Hollow Composite Members using Guided Waves
Authors: Kalgutkar Akshay Prakash , Sikdar Shirsendu , Banerjee Sauvik , Walton Karl , Mishra Rakesh
Published: January 2025

Thin-walled hollow composite members (HCM) are extensively employed in aerospace and automotive industries due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and design flexibility. This study introduces a hybrid theoretical-numerical-experimental framework for robust detection and characterisation of barely visible damage in HCM using guided waves (GW). It focuses on assessing surface abrasion and hairline cracks, two common yet challenging damage types encountered in the field. A semi-analytical finite element (SAFE) formulation is developed for the dispersion analysis alongside numerical simulations using finite element software COMSOL Multiphysics, and experimental validation is performed to ensure accurate and reliable results. The study focuses on GW propagation and scattering behaviour under varying damage scenarios, exploring the effects of damage size, position, and its offset on wave features. Parametric analyses show significant variations in wave characteristics such as group velocity, amplitude, amongst other mode features. A waveform and statistical approach incorporating continuous wavelet transform and energy enables precise damage classification. Results show that abrasion-induced damages cause substantial changes in GW features in terms of DIs and statistical parameters, while hairline cracks marginally affect the damage indices and wave features, aiding in distinguishing between different damage types. These findings contribute to the development of robust damage identification algorithms for structural health monitoring, providing valuable insights for optimising the maintenance and performance of composite structures in critical engineering environments, ensuring safety and operational efficiency.
Chronic lower back pain and its impact on health-related quality of life among undergraduate students of Gulu University, Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tino Martha Lucky , Pitua Ivaan , Nakyeyune Lillian Monica , Okot Jerom , Ssegawa Hellen Patricia , Ebbs Daniel S , Bongomin Felix
Published: January 2025

Background
Chronic lower back pain (CLBP) is a common health problem that affects both young and old individuals worldwide and remains a significant global public health concern. However, studies concerning the prevalence of CLBP among undergraduate students are scarce. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with CLBP and its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among undergraduate students at Gulu University, Uganda.
Methods
Between October and November 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted using self-administered questionnaires. CLBP was defined as non-specific lower back pain lasting more than 12 weeks or more. The Oswestry Disability Index was used to evaluate disability associated with CLBP, and the EuroQoL-5D-5 L was used to evaluate HRQoL (higher scores indicate better HRQoL).
Results
We enrolled 394 participants, 79.2% (n = 312) were males, with a median age of 23 (IQR: 22–24) years. The prevalence of CLBP was 20.6% (n = 81), and 66.8% (n = 263) of the participants were younger than 24 years. With respect to HRQoL scores (median [IQR]), both overall health (0.83 (0.75–0.9) versus 0.67 (0.61–0.78), p < 0.001) and self-reported health (80 (65–90) versus 65 (50–80), p < 0.001) were worse in participants with CLBP than in those without CLBP.
Conclusions
Approximately one in every five participants had CLBP. CLBP is a highly prevalent health problem among students at Gulu University, with a significantly negative impact on their daily life.
Sustained Functional Plasticity can be Induced in Human Parietal Cortex with Adaptation to Reversed Visual Input
Authors: Brewer Alyssa , Lin Ling , Barton Brian
Published: January 2025

As an avenue to explore the extent to which human posterior parietal cortex (PPC) can undergo dynamic reorganization, we used fMRI to investigate the cortical effects of an extreme alteration of visual input. In Experiment-1, subjects adapted to a complete left-right visual-field reversal for two weeks continuously. After 7-10 days, subjects adapted behaviorally, and, in tandem, visual fields in their PPC shifted their visuospatial representations from primarily contralateral to ipsilateral visual field responses. When normal vision was restored, subjects’ behavior and PPC visual-field-map spatial representations returned to normal within one day, indicating that the original contralateral representations were maintained. In Experiment-2, we tested whether these ipsilateral representations persisted by returning the same subjects to the reversed visual environment and showed behavioral and cortical PPC adaptation now occurred within one day. Our results indicate that our subjects’ behavioral adaptation was subserved in PPC visual field maps by functional plasticity: persistent, experience-dependent changes in cortical representations. Understanding such induction of functional plasticity in cortex grants insight into the nature of these visuomotor systems and may foster the development of therapies for cortical damage.
Genetic design of soybean hosts and bradyrhizobial endosymbionts reduces N2O emissions from soybean farming
Authors: Imaizumi-Anraku Haruko , Nishida Hanna , Itakura Manabu , Win Khin , Li Feng , Kakizaki Kaori , Suzuki Atsuo , Ohkubo Satoshi , Sugawara Masayuki , Takahashi Koji , Masuda Sachiko , Shibata Arisa , Shirasu Ken , Fujisawa Yukiko , Tsubokura Misa , Akiyama Hiroko , Shimoda Yoshikazu , Minamisawa Kiwamu
Published: January 2025

Soybeans fix atmospheric N2 through symbiosis with rhizobia, N2-fixing bacteria. The relationship between rhizobia and soybeans, particularly those with high nitrous oxide (N2O)-reducing activities (Nos++), can be used for reducing N2O emissions from agricultural soils. However, inoculating soybeans with Nos++ rhizobia under field conditions often fails because of the competition from indigenous Nos− (no N2O-reducing activities) and Nos+ (normal N2O-reducing activities) rhizobia. Here, we utilized natural incompatibility systems between soybean and rhizobia to address this challenge. Specifically, Rj2 and GmNNL1 inhibit certain rhizobial infections in response to NopP, an effector protein. By combining a soybean line with a hybrid accumulation of the Rj2 and GmNNL1 genes and Nos++ bradyrhizobia lacking the nopP effector gene, we developed a soybean-bradyrhizobial symbiosis system that Nos++ rhizobial inoculants predominantly infect. This optimized symbiotic system substantially reduced N2O emissions in field and laboratory tests, presenting a promising approach for sustainable agricultural practices.
Ubiquitous Memory Augmentation via Mobile Multimodal Embedding System
Authors: Cai Dongqi , Wang Shangguang , Peng Chen , Zhang Zeling , Lane Nicholas , Xu Mengwei
Published: January 2025

Forgetting is inevitable in human memory. Recently, multimodal embedding models have been proposed to vectorize multimodal reality into a unified embedding space. The generated embeddings can be easily retrieved to help mobile users remember and recall information when needed. However, as the model’s capacity increases, its resource consumption also rises. The resulting slow throughput and significant computational resource requirements hinder its deployment on mobile devices. In this paper, we present Reminisce, the first efficient on-device multimodal embedding system that enables high-throughput and precise retrieval on resource-constrained mobile devices. The core design draws inspiration from the memory functions of the human brain, utilizing coarse-grained embeddings to identify likely candidates, which are then refined through query-driven fine-grained retrieval. A series of algorithm-hardware orchestrated optimizations automatically navigates this process and strengthens the embedding quality. Experiments show that Reminisce provides high-quality embedding representation with high throughput while operating silently in the background with negligible memory usage and reduced energy consumption.
The situation of homeless ındividuals in earthquakes and policy recommendations: A phenomenological study
Authors: Usta Galip
Published: January 2025

This study aims to examine in depth the situation of homeless individuals in earthquakes from the perspective of disaster experts and to present social policy recommendations within this scope. The study was planned qualitatively and phenomenology design was preferred. The data of the study were obtained as a result of interviews with 10 people. In the study, four themes were formed as ‘Vulnerability and Access to Basic Needs’, ‘Information and Safety’, ‘Physical and Psychological Effects’ and ‘Empowerment and Social Integration’. In the study, it was evaluated that homeless individuals have difficulties in accessing basic needs, are socially isolated and stigmatised, face more health risks than other individuals, are not sufficiently included in disaster plans, do not have access to sufficient information, have difficulties in accessing information and support services, and face more security problems than other individuals. As a result, in order to carry out an effective disaster management process in earthquakes, it is recommended to include homeless individuals in comprehensive disaster plans, to identify their special needs, to provide support services to prevent social exclusion, to prepare programmes supporting the social integration of homeless individuals and to organise information campaigns.
Handheld Sensor-Based NDVI Measurement as an Alternative to Destructive Sampling for Growth and Yield Assessment in Maize
Authors: Hammad Hafiz Mohkum , Ahmad Ashfaq , Abbas Farhat , Farooque Aitazaz A. , Willkerson Carol , Ahmad Saeed , Hoogenboom Gerrit
Published: January 2025

The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) can be an indicator for plant growth response and ultimately yield to water and nitrogen (N) requirements in semi-arid environments. To assess the growth and development of maize through NDVI measurements under various N and irrigation water regimes, a field trial was conducted over two consecutive years at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, employing split-plot arrangement. The study involved three irrigation water regimes (IWR): normal irrigation, water deficit at the vegetative stage, and water deficit at the reproductive stage. Additionally, five N application rates (NR) were applied: 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 kg ha− 1 during each study year. The canopy reflectance NDVI data was measured using a Handheld GreenSeeker at ten-day intervals. The results showed that deficit irrigation regimes reduced NDVI, with the maximum decrease observed in IWR3 during both growing seasons. The results also revealed that an increase in N fertilizer application rates led to higher values for NDVI, leaf area index, and total dry matter (TDM). A highly significant and positive correlation of LAI and TDM, was observed with NDVI under different irrigation regimes (ranging R2 = 0.67 to 0.97) and N application rates (ranging R2 = 0.58 to 0.97) throughout the entire growing season. Additionally, all other growth and yield parameters of maize showed a positive and significant correlation with the NDVI values. The study findings suggest that utilization of NDVI measured with a handheld GreenSeeker sensor can effectively determine the impact of irrigation and N on maize grown in a semi-arid environment. Therefore, handheld GreenSeeker sensor has emerged as a promising tool as a more efficient and rapid alternative method for non-destructively measuring maize growth and potentially assessing yield.
Selective Manipulation of L-Cysteine Crystal Polymorphs Using Focused Laser Beams
Authors: Sugiyama Teruki , Takahashi Hozumi , Yoshikawa Hiroshi
Published: January 2025

The selective manipulation of crystal polymorphism holds profound implications across diverse scientific and industrial fields, as distinct polymorphs exhibit unique physical and chemical properties. This study demonstrates selective polymorphic manipulation by laser trapping – a technique enabling contactless manipulation and condensation of matter at the nanometer-scale and micrometer-scale. L-cysteine, a ubiquitous amino acid employed in pharmaceuticals and food additives, was targeted. We reveal that continuous-wave laser irradiation yields single crystals of the metastable polymorph, whereas successive irradiation with high-repetition-rate femtosecond laser pulses induces poly-crystallization of the stable form. Crucially, by strategically alternating between these two laser modalities during crystal growth, we can open up new crystallization pathways, including the generation of single crystals of the stable phase. These findings underscore the significant potential of focused laser beams for precision polymorphic engineering, paving the way for the development of advanced materials with tailored properties.
Exploring parent support needs during and after adolescent suicide crisis emergency department visits – A qualitative investigation
Authors: Rheinberger Demee , Boydell Katherine , Armstrong Susanne Oliver , Pollard Sally Ann , Lessing Julia , McGillivray Lauren , Shand Fiona
Published: January 2025

Background
Adolescents are the age cohort most likely to attend an emergency department for suicide crisis, often accompanied by a parent. Parents have reported feeling as though they are not appropriately supported to provide the critical life sustaining care their adolescent needs after discharge from the emergency department. This study sought to understand what types of support parents need as a result of the emergency department presentation.
Method
Semi-structured, online interviews were conducted between February and May 2023. Individuals were eligible to participate if they were parents (biological, step, or adoptive) of adolescents (12–18 years old) who had attended an Australian emergency department for suicide crisis since January 2018. Data was analysed via reflexive thematic analysis.
Results
Twenty biological parents participated in interviews (average age: 46.9 years). Reflexive thematic analysis indicated there were three domains of support parents’ desired: 1) information about, and active involvement in, the emergency department care, 2) information about how to keep their adolescent safe and support recovery, and 3) tools to support parents’ own wellbeing.
Conclusions
These findings provide a preliminary outline of the support parents need and what resources may need to be developed to educate and support parents, which could be integrated into the emergency department procedures. Improving the way in which parents are supported to care for their adolescent may help reduce recurrent incidents of adolescent suicide attempts.
Single longitudinal mode 486.1 nm wavelength laser generation from β-Ba2BO4 -optical parametric amplifier system for ocean detection
Authors: Luo Qihui , Ma Jian , Huang Zizheng , Lu Tingting , Zhang Junxuan , Ma Haoda , Zhu Xiaolei , Chen Weibiao
Published: January 2025

A single longitudinal mode (SLM) 486.1 nm blue pulsed laser was investigated by adopting a single-frequency distributed feedback laser (DFB) injected optical parametric oscillator (OPO) and optical parametric amplifier (OPA) structure, pumped by a 355 nm ultraviolet SLM laser at pulse repetition rate of 200 Hz. The maximum output pulse energy of 22.0 mJ was obtained from this injection seeded OPO/OPA system, corresponding to energy extraction efficiency of 35.4% and peak power density of 46.4 MW/cm2. The central wavelength of output laser pulse was 486.134 nm, which was well matched the H-β Fraunhofer line of solar spectrum, and the detected spectral linewidth was around 120 MHz.
Clinical, laboratory, and bacteriological correlations in neonatal sepsis: A prospective observational study
Authors: Varma Ravindra , Pradhan Monalisa , Shinde Srinivasrao G
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Neonatal sepsis is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings. Timely diagnosis and intervention are critical for improved outcomes. Blood culture is the gold standard for diagnosing neonatal sepsis and allows targeted antimicrobial therapy, and its results may be delayed for up to 48 hours. This study investigated the clinical features, sepsis screening parameters, and bacteriological profiles of neonatal sepsis patients to establish correlations that can guide timely diagnosis and treatment.
Study design: This prospective observational study included 106 neonates admitted with suspected sepsis over two years. Clinical features, septic screening results, and blood culture findings were analysed.
Results: Of the 106 neonates, 51.9% were male, 52.8% were preterm babies, and 71.6% had low birth weights. Respiratory distress (25%) was the most common symptom. Blood cultures were positive for 33.9%, predominantly Klebsiella pneumoniae (66.7%). Among the sepsis screening parameters, the micro-ESR had the highest sensitivity and specificity. Mortality was 3.8%.
Conclusions: Combining clinical features, sepsis screening tests, and blood cultures improves the early detection and management of neonatal sepsis.
Automatic Assistance to Mitigate Rollback Inconsistencies in Collaborative Edits
Authors: Mondal Saikat , Uddin Gias , Roy Chanchal K.
Published: January 2025

The success of technical Q&A sites such as Stack Overflow depends on two key factors: (a) active user participation and (b) the quality of the shared knowledge. Stack Overflow introduced an edit system that allows users to suggest improvements to posts (i.e., questions and answers) to enhance the quality of the content. However, users, such as post owners or site moderators, can reject these suggested edits by rollbacks due to unsatisfactory, low-quality edits or violating edit guidelines. Unfortunately, subjectivity bias in determining whether an edit is satisfactory or unsatisfactory can lead to inconsistencies in the rollback decisions. For example, one user might accept the formatting of a method name (e.g., getActivity()) as a code term, while another might reject it. Such inconsistencies can demotivate and frustrate users whose edits are rejected. Furthermore, several post owners prefer to keep their content unchanged and even resist necessary edits. As a result, they sometimes roll back necessary edits and revert posts to a flawed version, which violates editing guidelines. The problems mentioned above are further compounded by the lack of specific guidelines and tools to assist users in ensuring consistency in user rollback actions. In this study, we investigate the types, prevalence, and impact of rollback edit inconsistencies and propose a solution to address them. The outcomes of this research are fivefold. First, we manually investigated 764 rollback edits (382 questions + 382 answers) and identified eight types of inconsistent rollback. Second, we surveyed 44 practitioners to assess the impact of rollback inconsistencies. More than 80% of the participants found our identified inconsistency types detrimental to post quality. Third, we developed rule-based algorithms and Machine Learning (ML) models to detect the eight types of rollback inconsistencies. Both approaches achieve over 90% accuracy. Fourth, we introduced a tool, iEdit, which integrates these algorithms into a browser extension and assists Stack Overflow users during their edits. Fifth, we surveyed 16 Stack Overflow users to evaluate the effectiveness of iEdit. The participants found the tool’s suggestions helpful in avoiding inconsistent rollback edits.