bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stimulation of secondary metabolism in grape berry exocarps by a nature-based strategy of foliar application of polyols
Authors: Conde Artur , Badim Hélder , Dinis Lia-Tânia , Moutinho-Pereira José , Ferrier Manon , Unlubayir Marianne , Lanoue Arnaud , Gerós Hernâni
Published: March 2024

In grapes under drought stress, polyols accumulate through tight coordination at the molecular level between increased membrane transport of polyols and inhibition of polyol oxidation. Here, the effects on grape metabolism of an exogenous foliar application of polyols as a potential sustainable viticultural practice to increase grapevine performance and berry quality were thoroughly assessed. Grapevines were pulverised with a polyol solution containing 2 mM mannitol and 2 mM sorbitol, and the metabolome of grape berry exocarps and important metabolic pathways associated with berry quality and polyol metabolism were analysed at véraison and mature stages. By combining metabolomics analysis using UPLC-MS, enzyme activity assays and targeted transcriptional analyses, it was demonstrated that foliar application of polyols stimulated by 3.5-fold and 6-fold abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis at véraison and mature grape berries, respectively. It also stimulated the concentration of anthocyanins, stilbenes and total phenolics in exocarps through the upregulation of phenylpropanoid, stilbenoid and anthocyanin biosynthetic pathways shown by increases in phenylalanine-ammonia lyase (PAL) activity (3-fold) and VviPAL1 expression, stilbene synthase 1 (VviSTS1) transcripts (ca. 5-fold), UDP-glucose:flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase (UFGT) activity and VviUFGT1 expression, among other results, at the mature stage, when these changes were most noticeable. Many secondary metabolites synthesised in these pathways identified by UPLC-MS analysis were present at higher quantities in exocarps from polyol-treated plants such as fertaric acid, E-resveratrol, E-piceatannol, piceid, pallidol, E-ε-viniferin, myricetin-hexoside 1, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and malvidin-3-O-(6-p-coumaroyl)-glucoside. Foliar application of low-concentration polyols is, therefore, a promising biostimulant-based strategy to improve grape berry quality and nutritional value in the current context of climate change.
Interaction analysis of sharia financial institution assets, sharia investment and exports on gross domestic product in Indonesia
Authors: Nasyaa Sultan Rasy , Imsar Imsar , Harahap Muhammad Ikhsan
Published: March 2024

IntroductionIn macroeconomics, one of the key indicators influencing a country's economic success is its economic growth. An essential factor in determining a nation's economic growth is the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).ObjectivesThis research aims to analyze the level of interaction between Islamic financial institutions, Sharia investments, and export activities in Indonesia, examining their impact on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the short and long term, spanning the period 2017-2022.MethodThe study employs a quantitative research approach, specifically utilizing the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) method.ResultsThe results of the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) reveal two significant variables in the long term. The causality test results indicate a significant relationship between Indonesian exports and Sharia investment. The Variance Decomposition analysis reveals that Sharia Financial Institution Assets contribute 2.7 percent, followed by Sharia Investment at 0.3 percent, and Indonesian Exports at 0.03 percent to the variation in GDP.ImplicationsThis suggests that Indonesian exports significantly impact Sharia investment, and vice versa. However, concerning Gross Domestic Product (GDP), none of the variables exhibit significance. The development of income across various institutions and economic activities in Indonesia indicates a significant increase in the last three years.Originality/NoveltyThese findings provide valuable insights into the economic dynamics of Indonesia, offering a basis for further research and policymaking.
The influence of financial performance on profitability of sharia commercial banks in Indonesia using the CAMEL method
Authors: Minarni  , Abidin Munirul , Ekowati Vivin Maharani
Published: March 2024

IntroductionResearch on Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia have been extensively conducted, with a focus on banks in general and large banks. However, research specifically targeting medium-sized banks, namely PT Bank Muamalat Indonesia, PT Bank Mega Syariah, PT Bank Panin Dubai Syariah, PT Bank BCA Syariah, and PT Bank KB Bukopin Syariah, is still limited.ObjectivesThis study aims to examine the influence of the financial performance of Islamic banks on their profitability using the CAMEL indicator.MethodThis research is quantitative with a correlational approach. The population in this study consists of 12 Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia, with 5 of them selected as samples. The sampling technique used is purposive sampling. The study utilizes secondary data from quarterly financial ratio reports of Islamic banks published by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The analysis involves evaluating the impact of CAR, NPF, NOM, BOPO, and FDR on ROA using multiple linear regression analysis.ResultsThe findings indicate that, partially, CAR and NPF do not significantly affect the ROA of Islamic banks. However, NOM, BOPO, and FDR have a significant impact on the ROA of Islamic banks.Implicationsthe research motivates Islamic bank management to improve their financial ratios to meet the health criteria set by Bank Indonesia (BI) and OJK. Maintaining healthy financial ratios has implications for the level of trust that customers and potential customers have in Islamic banks and ultimately determines the long-term existence of these banks.Originality/NoveltyThis study contributes to the development of risk management theory by examining the factors influencing the fluctuations in the values of CAR, NPF, NOM, BOPO, and FDR on the ROA of Islamic banks.
Financial risk mitigation of collateral-free kredit usaha rakyat mikro at Bank Syariah Indonesia KCP Ujung Berung 1
Authors: Gustini Yasni , Amaliah Ima , Hartono Budi
Published: March 2024

IntroductionBank Syariah Indonesia participates in disbursing kredit usaha rakyat (KUR) mikro with a maximum financing ceiling of Rp 100 million without requiring collateral. This is worth further investigation, especially from the perspective of financing risk mitigation.ObjectivesThis research aims to identify risk mitigation strategies to reduce the impact on non-performing financings from kredit usaha rakyat mikro.MethodThe study is located at Bank Syariah Indonesia KCP Ujung Berung 1 in the city of Bandung, using a qualitative descriptive method. Research data is processed using interview and documentation techniques.ResultsField findings indicate dynamic disbursement of KUR from January to April, totaling Rp 3.69 million. In April 2023, delinquent credits decreased by 0.5% from 6.6% in March 2023 to 6.1%. This is evidenced by the risk mitigation strategy used to address delinquent credits, which involves identifying customers who meet established criteria and conducting necessary checks, such as BI checking/SLIK, trade checking, and market checking. Additionally, the bank requires customers to obtain life insurance before applying for financing.ImplicationsThe research motivates Islamic bank management to reduce financial risk in financing to micro, small, and medium enterprises by improving their financial risk mitigation.Originality/NoveltyThis study can serve as a reference for banks to reduce the risk of non-performing financing by implementing credit risk mitigation strategies.
Only Euclidean Relativity Provides a Holistic View of Nature
Authors: Niemz Markolf H.
Published: March 2024

Special and general relativity (SR/GR) describe nature “subjectively”, that is, from the perspective of just one observer at a time (one group of observers, to be exact). Mathematically, SR/GR are correct. I show: (1) Physically, SR/GR have an issue. Despite the covariance of SR/GR, there is always just one active perspective. Because of this constraint, there is no holistic view of nature. The issue shows itself in unsolved mysteries. Still, the Lorentz factor and gravitational time dilation are correct. This is why the concepts of spacetime in SR/GR work well except for cosmology and quantum mechanics. (2) Euclidean relativity (ER) describes nature “objectively”, that is, from the perspectives of all objects at once. An object’s (!) proper space d1, d2, d3 and proper time τ span 4D Euclidean spacetime (ES), where cτ may be considered a fourth distance d4. All energy moves through ES at the speed c. An observer’s reality is created by projecting ES orthogonally to his proper space and to his proper time. In SR, these concepts are considered coordinate space and coordinate time. Neither their reassembly to a non-Euclidean spacetime nor the parameterization in SR/GR provides a holistic view. The scalar τ, in particular, cannot factor in an object’s 4D vector “flow of proper time” τ. The SO(4) symmetry of ES is incompatible with waves. This is fine because waves and particles are subjective concepts. A master reality (described by ER) is beyond each observer’s reality (described by SR/GR). ER solves 15 mysteries at once, such as time’s arrow, the Hubble tension, dark energy, and non-locality.
Collatz Conjecture
Authors: Durmagambetov Asset , Durmagambetova Aniyar
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an analysis of the number of zeros in the binary representation of natural numbers. The primary method of analysis involves the use of the concept of the fractional part of a number, which naturally emerges in the determination of binary representation. This idea is grounded in the fundamental property of the Riemann zeta function, constructed using the fractional part of a number. Understanding that the ratio between the fractional and integer parts of a number, analogous to the Riemann zeta function, reflects the profound laws of numbers becomes the key insight of this work. The findings suggest a new perspective on the interrelation between elementary properties of numbers and more complex mathematical concepts, potentially opening new directions in number theory and analysis.
Elementary Particles and Space-Time Curvature
Authors: Lavi Eran Magshim
Published: March 2024

This article begins with exploring fundamental limits in the universe. It examines key principles, such as the uniformity of physical laws and Energy conservation, that lead to maximum speed, locality, and maximum density. These universal limits govern physical phenomena, leading to very interesting results. I demonstrate that quarks and leptons comprise smaller entities named "Quantum Black Holes." These Quantum black holes are relativistically rotating miniature charged black holes consisting of a single core at the highest possible density. Quantum black holes are the only structures small enough in space-time capable of keeping all charges quantized (including gravitational charges.)By the end of the article, I will prove that Quantum black holes explain the deficiencies of SM. They facilitate explanations of quantized gravity, the nature of Luminous and dark Matter, establishing the Mass, size, and (quantized) charges of elementary particles, the nature of neutrino oscillations, and more. Elementary particles release their Energy outward, altering the curvature of nearby space-time and providing new insights into the nature of space-time curvature change. With this understanding, we can characterize movements and processes in space-time using simultaneously five sets of equations: four representing the four charges' types and one representing Dark Matter.
Revolutionizing Parasitic Infection Diagnosis in Northern Nigeria: An Integrated Machine Learning Approach for the Identification of Intestinal Parasites and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: El-Sunais Yusha'u , Eberemu Nkiru Charity
Published: March 2024

Intestinal parasitic infections pose a significant public health challenge in Northern Nigeria, with prevalence rates ranging from 20% to 70%. Traditional diagnostic methods, primarily microscopic examination of stool samples, face limitations such as low sensitivity and high costs. This research addresses these challenges by proposing an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based platform for the identification and counting of intestinal parasites. A total of 651 samples were collected from the 7 Northern State of Nigeria along with questionnaire collecting data on demographic, socio-economic, hygiene habits and environmental factors. Leveraging the You Only Look Once (YOLO) V8 model, trained on a dataset of 360 pre-processed and 467 annotated images, the AI model demonstrated promising performance metrics. Information-Theory-Based approaches including (CIFE, CMIM, DISR and ICAP) were used on various machine learning models (Naïve Bayes, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine and Decision Tree) to analyse the risk factors associated with the parasitic disease. The precision-recall curve, average precision, mean average precision, and F1 score indicated reliable detection and classification across various parasite classes. The accuracy (97%) and AUC (99%) scores shows that CIFE with Random Forest has the best performance indicating the significant risk factors associated with the parasitic diseases. The model exhibited a well-balanced trade-off between precision and recall, showcasing its potential as a cost-effective and accessible tool for improving the diagnosis and treatment of intestinal parasitic infections in resource-limited settings.
Health Benefits of White Mulberry, Sea–Buckthorn, Garlic, Lily of the Valley, Motherwort, and Hawthorn — Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Witkowska Aleksandra , Gryn–Rynko Anna , Syrkiewicz Patrycja , Kitala–Tańska Klaudia , Majewski Michał S
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are a broadly understood concept focusing on vascular and heart dys-function. Lack of physical exercise, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, throm-boembolism, kidney, and lung diseases all contribute to the development of heart and blood vessel dysfunction. Although effective and important, traditional treatment with diuretics, statins, beta–blockers, calcium inhibitors, ACE inhibitors, and anti–platelet drugs remain a second–line treatment after dietary intervention and lifestyle changes. Scientists worldwide are still looking for an herbal product that would be quite effective and free from side effects, either taken together or before the standard pharmacological intervention. Such herbal–originated medication therapy may include Morus alba L. (white mulberry), Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson (sea–buckthorn), Allium sativum L. (garlic), Convallaria majalis L. (lily of the valley), Leonurus cardiaca L. (mother-wort), and Crataegus spp. (hawthorn). Valuable herbal raw materials include leaves, fruits, seeds, and even thorns. This short review focuses on six herbs that can constitute an interesting and po-tential therapeutic option in the management of cardiovascular disorders.
3D Virtual Reality Motionless Imagery Exercise through Avatar in Older People
Authors: LEE Myung Chul , PARK Chang Hoon , HAN Kyung Hun
Published: March 2024

Background: 3D virtual reality (VR) Motionless Imagery Exercise through Avatar (MIEA) was developed to improve elderly’s psychological (cognitive and emotional) and physical health. This study observed the impact of this program on the cognitive functions and emotional well-being and the electrophysiological changes in older adults. Methods: This study was conducted using a randomized controlled trial design. The participants included 38 adults, 65 to 84 years of age, who were physically mobile and neurologically healthy. Among them, 19 participants were assigned to the experimental group, who underwent exercises using elderly avatars in a VR virtual exercise program. The other 19 participants were assigned to the control group who underwent the VR program. Both groups engaged in the VR intervention for 20 minutes three times a week, over six weeks. Results: The cognitive functions, including attention restraint, working memory, and phonemic fluency, of the experimental group showed significant improvements compared to the control group. Regarding emotional well-being, the experimental group showed greater self-efficacy. The electrophysiological changes revealed similar patterns to exercise-induced reactions in electromyography of the experimental group after intervention. Conclusions: These findings confirm that participation in 3D VR MIEA enhances cognitive functions and physical self-efficacy among the elderly. Therefore, 3D VR MIEA can be utilized in the rehabilitation therapy of patients or elderly with limited physical activity.
Robust Combined Adaptive Passivity-Based Control for Induction Motors
Authors: Travieso-Torres Juan Carlos , Ricaldi-Morales Abdiel Josadac , Aguila-Camacho Norelys
Published: March 2024

The need for industrial and commercial machinery to maintain high torque while accurately following a variable angular speed is increasing. To meet this demand, induction motors (IMs) are commonly used with variable speed drives (VSDs) that employ a field-oriented control (FOC) scheme. Over the last thirty years, IMs have been replacing independent connection direct current motors due to their cost-effectiveness, reduced maintenance needs, and increased efficiency. However, IMs and VSDs exhibit nonlinear behavior, uncertainties, and disturbances. This paper proposes a robust combined adaptive passivity-based control (CAPBC) for this class of nonlinear systems that applies to angular rotor speed and stator current regulation inside an FOC scheme for IMs´ VSDs. It uses general Lyapunov-based design energy functions and adaptive laws with σ-modification to assure robustness after combining control and monitoring variables. Lyapunov’s second method and Barbalat Lemma prove that the control and identification error tends to be zero over time. Moreover, comparative experimental results with standard Proportional Integer controller (PIC) and direct APBC, show the proposed CAPBC effectiveness and robustness under normal and changing conditions
A Unifying Hypothesis for the Genome Dynamics Proposed to Underly Neuropsychiatric Phenotypes
Authors: Gericke George Sebastian
Published: March 2024

The sheer number of gene variants and the extent of the observed clinical and molecular heterogeneity recorded in neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs), could be due to the magnified downstream effects initiated by a smaller group of genomic higher order alterations in response to endogenous or environmental stress. Chromosomal common fragile sites (CFS) are functionally linked with microRNA’s, gene copy number variants (CNVs), sub-microscopic deletions and duplications of DNA, rare single-nucleotide variants (SNVs/SNPs) and small insertions/deletions (indels), as well as chromosomal translocations, gene duplications, altered methylation, microRNA and L1 transposon activity and 3-D chromosomal topology characteristics. These genomic structural features have been linked with various NPDs in mostly isolated reports, and have usually only been viewed as areas harboring potential candidate genes of interest. The suggestion to use a higher level entry point, (the ‘fragilome’ and associated features), activated by a central mechanism (‘stress’) for studying NPD genetics, has the potential to unify the existing vast number of different observations in this field. This approach may explain the continuum of gene findings distributed between affected and unaffected individuals, the clustering of NPD phenotypes and overlapping comorbidities, the extensive clinical and molecular heterogeneity and the association with certain other medical disorders.
A High-Homology Region in Bacterial β-Barrel Pore-Forming Toxins
Authors: Nagel Alexey S. , Vetrova Olesya , Rudenko Natalia V. , Karatovskaya Anna P. , Zamyatina Anna , Andreeva-Kovalevskaya Zhanna I. , Salyamov Vadim , Egorova Nadezhda , Siunov Alexander V. , Ivanova Tatiana D. , Boziev Khanafi M. , Brovko Fedor A. , Solonin Alexander S.
Published: March 2024

Pathogenicity of many bacteria including Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus depends on pore-forming toxins (PFTs), which cause lysis of host cells by forming pores in membranes of eukaryotic cells. Bioinformatic analysis revealed in over 600 PFTs a region homologous to the Lys171-Gly250 sequence in hemolysin II (HlyII) from B. cereus, which we designated as “homologous peptide”. Three β-barrel PFTs were used for a detailed comparative analysis. Two of them –HlyII and cytotoxin K2 (CytK2), – are synthesized in Bacillus cereus sensu lato; the third – S. aureus α-toxin (Hla) – is the most investigated representative of the family. Protein modeling showed certain amino acids of homologous peptide to be located on the surface of the monomeric forms of these β-barrel PFTs. We obtained monoclonal antibodies against both a cloned homologous peptide and a 14-membered synthetic peptide DSFNTFYGNQLFMK as part of homologous peptide. The HlyII, CytK2 and Hla regions recognized by the obtained antibodies, as well as an antibody capable of suppressing the hemolytic activity of CytK2, were identified in the course of the work. Antibodies capable of recognizing PFTs of various origins can be useful tools for both identification and suppression of the cytolytic activity of PFTs.
COVID-19 Therapeutics Use by Social Deprivation in England, July 2020–April 2023
Authors: Falola Angela , Squire Hanna , Bou-Antoun Sabine , Løchen Alessandra , Brown Colin S. , Demirjian Alicia
Published: March 2024

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) has disproportionately affected certain demographics in England, exacerbating existing health disparities. Effective therapeutics are a critical line of defence against COVID-19, particularly for patients at elevated risk for severe disease. Surveillance systems were established to monitor usage of COVID-19 therapeutics in hospital and community settings and inform stewardship. Three antiviral therapies: nirmatrelvir plus ritonavir (Paxlovid®), remdesivir (Veklury®), and molnupiravir (Lagevrio®); and two neutralising monoclonal antibody therapies (nMAbs): sotrovimab (Xevudy®) and casirivimab with imdevimab (Ronapreve®); were in use in England between July 2020 to April 2023. This paper aims to illuminate trends in the utilisation of COVID-19 therapeutics treatment in both hospital and community settings, stratified by the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) in England. Chapter 3 of the English Surveillance Programme for Antimicrobial Utilisation and Resistance (ESPAUR) report 2022 to 2023 also discusses the epidemiological surveillance of these five directly-acting antiviral COVID-19 therapeutics use in England between 2022 to 2023.
The Life Cycle of Stemness Explained by Evolutionary Cancer Cell Biology (ECCB)
Authors: Niculescu Vladimir
Published: March 2024

The evolutionary cancer cell biology ECCB explains the deep homology existent between the life cycle of cancer and protists. Due to their origin and sensitivity to oxygen, all non-gametogenic germ lines and germ stem cells (GSCs), including human adult stem cells (ASCs) and cancer stem cells (CSCs), suffer severe DNADSB damage when exposed to stress oxygen content above 6.0% O2 (Urgermline hyperoxia) as occurring in tissue and bloodstream. As a result, GSCs/ASCs/ CSCs lose their stemness potential and convert from a functional asymmetric cyclic phenotype (ACD phenotype) to a dysfunctional symmetric phenotype capable of defective symmetric proliferation (DSCD) that is, however, unable to repair genomic degradation. Genome reconstruction occurs through evolutionary mechanisms evolved by the common ancestor of amoebozoans, metazoans, and fungi. They complete the cycle by removing the damage, reconstructing the functional genome, and reinstating the ASC phenotype. The stemness life cycle acts not only during carcinogenesis, tumorigenesis, and recurrence but also in the life cycle of protists.
Nutritional Guidance through Digital Media for Glycemic Control of Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Valença Marlene Carvalho Teixeira , França Marcelo Santucci , Mattar Rosiane , Granese Roberta , Dualib Patricia Medici , Sanchez Victor Hugo Salcedo , De Almeida-Pititto Bianca , Araujo Júnior Edward , Traina Evelyn
Published: March 2024

Background: The management of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) focuses on dietary interventions, physical activity, and pharmacological therapy. Strategies that enhance adherence to the diet could play a pivotal role in managing this population.
Objective: To compare the effectiveness of outpatient nutritional guidance supplemented by digital media with exclusively standard outpatient nutritional guidance in pregnant women with GDM.
Methods: This was a randomized, patient-blinded clinical trial conducted at the Diabetes and Pregnancy outpatient clinic from February 2021 to January 2023. Pregnant women with GDM were randomly allocated into two groups: the Control Group (CG) received exclusively outpatient nutritional guidance, and the Intervention Group (IG) received outpatient nutritional guidance along with reminders via WhatsApp. Dietary intake (calories, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and fibers) was evaluated using 24-hour dietary recalls (24HR). Glycemic control and the need for pharmacological treatment were also assessed. Mann-Whitney tests were applied to numerical variables, and Fisher's exact test or Chi-square tests were used for categorical variables.
Results: 81 women were included, 34 allocated to the CG, and 47 to the IG. Patients were followed for a period of 4 to 8 weeks. Few differences were observed in glycemic control between the two groups over the follow-up period. There were no statistical differences in pharmacological therapy (p=0.498); 188 24HR were conducted in the CG and 290 in the IG. A statistically significant increase in lipid intake was observed in the IG over the follow-up period compared to the CG (p
The Microscopic Production Characteristics of CO2 Flooding AF-Ter Water Flooding for Tight Oil Sandstones Reservoirs Utilized NMR and Microscopic Visualization Apparatus
Authors: Xue Junjie , Gao Hui , Ma Zhanguo , Shi HuaQiang , Li Xiaoling , Li Teng , Cheng Zhilin , Wang Chen , Li Pan , Zhang Nan
Published: March 2024

The microscopic pore structure of tight sandstone reservoir significantly influences the characteris-tics of CO2 flooding after water flooding. The research was conducted using various techniques such as casting thin sections, high pressure mercury injection, scanning electron microscopy, Nu-clear magnetic resonance (NMR) testing, and a self-designed high-temperatures and high-pressures microscopic visualization displacement system. Three type cores with different pore structures were selected for the flooding experiments and the microscopic visualization displace-ment experiments, including CO2 immiscible flooding, near-miscible flooding, and miscible flood-ing after the conventional water flooding. The characteristics of CO2 flooding and the residual oil distribution after water flooding were quantitatively analyzed and evaluated. The results show that: (1) During the water flooding process, the oil produced from type I and type III samples mainly comes from large and some medium pores. Oil utilization of all pores is significant for type II samples. The physical properties and pore types have a greater impact on water flooding. Type I and II samples are more suitable for near-miscible flooding after water flooding. Type III samples are more suitable for miscible flooding after water flooding. (2) In the CO2 flooding, oil recovery increases gradually with increasing pressure for all three types of samples. Type II core samples have the highest recovery. Before miscibility, the oil recovered from type I and type II samples was primarily from large pores, however, the oil recovery mainly comes from medium pores when reaching miscibility. As for the type III samples, the oil produced in the immiscible state mainly comes from large and medium pores, and the enhanced oil recovery mainly comes from medium and small pores after reaching the near-miscible phase. (3) It can be seen from the microscopic re-sidual oil distribution that oil recovery will increase as the petrophysical properties of the rock model improve. The oil recovery of near-miscible flooding after water flooding regarding the type II model is up to 68.11%. The oil recovery of miscible flooding after water flooding about type III model is the highest at 74.57%. With increasing pressure, the proportion of flake residual oil grad-ually decreases, while the proportion of droplet-like and film-like residual oil gradually increases. Type II samples have a relatively large percentage of reticulated residual oil in the near-miscible stage.
Robotic Multi-Visceral Resection for Locally-Advanced Rectal Cancer: Initial Experiences
Authors: Shamim Muhammad , Jootun Ravish , Tejedor Patricia , Stefan Samuel , Mykoniatis Ioannis , Naqvi Syed , Khan Jim
Published: March 2024

Background:
Locally advanced rectal cancers (10-20%) can present with infiltration into adjacent viscera. R0 resections remain the key factor for better survival. Traditionally these cases have been managed with open surgery. There are some limitations of laparoscopic surgery in these case, which can potentially be overcome by robotic surgery.
Objectives:
To determine the feasibility and outcome results of robotic multi-visceral resection of stage T4 rectal carcinoma.
Methods:
Consecutive patients having locally advanced carcinoma of rectum, who undergone robotic multi-visceral resection as the primary treatment between 2015 -2018 were included, through our database which was maintained prospectively. All perioperative and intraoperative parameters were analyzed. Patient demographics, co-morbidities, preoperative imaging, endoscopic findings, operative data, histopathology results, postoperative hospital course and procedure related postoperative adverse events were noted and analyzed.
Results:
Twenty-one patients with the diagnosis of nonmetastatic locally advanced rectal cancers were operated with Robotic Si/X platform. The median body mass index was 28.5 kg/m2 (range 21-42). The mean blood loss during operation was 20 ml (range 5-200), and the mean duration of surgery was 280 min (range 240-430). The median hospital stay after operation was 6 days (range 4-25 days). On postoperative histopathology, R0 resection rate was 90.5% (19/21).
Conclusions:
The robotic multi-visceral en-bloc resection of stage T4 rectal carcinoma is technically feasible and oncologically safe. Advanced technical skills, accurate radiological staging and careful patient selection can allow the extension of minimal access surgery to this challenging group of patients.
Molecular Basis of Neuronal and Microglial States in the Aging Brain and Impact on Cerebral Blood Vessels
Authors: Maeda Chihiro , Tsuruta Fuminori
Published: March 2024

Brain aging causes a wide variety of changes at molecular and cellular levels, leading to the decline of cognitive functions and increased vulnerability to neurodegenerative disorders. The research aimed at understanding the aging of the brain has made much progress in recent decades. Technological innovations such as single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq), proteomic analyses, and spatial transcriptomic analyses have facilitated the research on the dynamic changes occurring within neurons, glia, and other cells along with their impacts on intercellular communication during aging. In this review, we introduce recent trends of how neurons and glia change during aging and discuss the impact of the brain microenvironment such as the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
In Curative Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer, There Is a High Possibility That 45 Gy in 5 Fractions Will Not Be Tolerated without a Hydrogel Spacer
Authors: Sawayanagi Subaru , Yamashita Hideomi , Ogita Mami , Kawai Taketo , Sato Yusuke , Kume Haruki
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in the treatment of non-metastatic prostate cancer. This study was a phase 1 dose escalation trial conducted in Japan. Patients with histologically proven prostate cancer without lymph node or distant metastasis were enrolled. The prescribed doses were 42.5, 45, or 47.5 Gy in five fractions. Dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as grade (G) 3+ gastrointestinal or genitourinary toxicity within 180 days after SBRT completion and a 6 plus 6 design was used as the method of dose escalation. A total of 16 patients were enrolled, with 6 in the 42.5 Gy group and 10 in the 45 Gy group. No DLT was observed in the 42.5 Gy group. In the 45 Gy group, one patient experienced G3 rectal hemorrhage, and another had G4 rectal perforation, leading to the determination of 42.5 Gy as the MTD. None of the patients experienced biochemical recurrence or death during the follow-up period. We concluded that SBRT for non-metastatic prostate cancer at 42.5 Gy in 5 fractions could be safely performed, but a total dose of 45 Gy increased severe toxicity.
Thinking International Waters as Integrated Ecosystems: A Study of the La Plata River Basin
Authors: Yahn Filho Armando Gallo , Bervig Aline Andressa
Published: March 2024

International basins are divided into sub-basins that are managed at the national and local levels, within the territory of each country, before reaching the level of international concern. The management of international basins could be developed using an integrated water management, based on multi-level governance model in which many actors are involved, from local to international scale. However, in the La Plata River Basin this model is not working, even with international agreements such as the La Plata Basin Treaty, which was signed in 1969. The understanding of political interests behind the law helps to explain its inefficiency. Therefore, considering the lack of a systemic view in an international watershed, it could be possible to have accumulating effects caused by the transformations of watercourses in the sub-basins. Then, the 2014 water crisis in the State of São Paulo, Brazil, is an example of the possible consequences arising from the lack of an integrated water management in the La Plata River Basin. Finally, this article demonstrates that the only way to have water resources utilization efficiency in an international basin is considering it as an integrated ecosystem, in order that any local problem may affect the whole basin.
Influence of Single- and Double-Aging Treatments on the Mechanical and Corrosion Resistance of Alloy 625
Authors: Rivolta Barbara , Gerosa Riccardo , Panzeri Davide
Published: March 2024

The nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloy 625 exhibits an excellent combination of mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. However, the high temperature plastic deformation process and the heat treatment represent critical aspects and the adoption of non-optimal parameters can result in excessive grain coarsening and loss in mechanical strength. This detrimental behavior is worsened by the presence of a narrow region of temperatures and strain rates for complete recrystallization and the absence of phase transformation temperatures. In this alloy, the presence of sufficient amounts of niobium, titanium and aluminum permits slow age-hardening response upon single-aging treatments. Therefore, when the soft- or solution-annealed condition is associated with insufficient mechanical properties, this potentiality can be exploited to improve the mechanical strength and prevent waste of material and resources. Since the precipitation kinetic of the hardening γ^'' phase can be accelerated by prior nucleation treatment, different time-temperature combinations of double aging at 732 °C and 621 °C are investigated to reduce the overall heat treatment time. However, the simultaneous formation of Cr-rich carbides can dramatically affect the intergranular corrosion resistance. For this reason, a performance map is developed to compare all the tested conditions and identify the best compromise in terms of mechanical strength and corrosion rate.
Immunization Non‐Compliance and Its Relationship with Maternal Knowledge among Child under Two Years of Age: A Community‐Based Survey in Urban Slums of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Khaliq Asif , Ali Saher Mukhtar , Zahid Asima , Lokeesan Laavanya , Holmes-Stahlman River , Lassi Zohra S
Published: March 2024

In children, the global burden of vaccines-preventable diseases (VPDs) and deaths can be averted by adopting timely immunization practices. Administering immunization to a child within 28 or 30 days of the designated immunization date is referred to as timely immunization. Delaying or missing vaccinations puts children, especially those in urban slums, at a higher risk of getting sick or dying from different diseases. This study was designed to examine the immunization practices and to measure the determinants of immunization non-compliance in children living in urban slums of Karachi, Pakistan. A community-based retrospective cohort was carried out from October-2018- to August-2019 in six different urban slums of Karachi. Immunization status of children aged less than 2 years was assessed by reviewing their vaccination card. Children from each slum were approached via 30x7 multistage stratified cluster sampling technique. Data of each child was analysed descriptively and inferentially using a statistical software, i.e., Jamovi version 1.2.25. The practice of timely immunization was observed in approximately half of children, i.e., 49.8%(n=457). The immunization rate at birth (first-visit) was 100%, of which 95.7% were timely immunized. Following the second immunization visit, a sharp decline in the immunization rate, including timely immunization rate was observed. Lack of knowledge, childhood illnesses, lack of interest, and vaccines unavailability were the main reasons of immunization non-compliance. However, an increase in paternal education was significantly associated to decrease the odds of immunization non-compliance. A decrease in the practice of timely immunization is replaced by either invalid and/or delayed and/or missed immunization practices. Thus, timely immunization is crucial for preventing the infectious diseases and promoting the health of a child.
Gas Gangrene in a Horse in the Amazon Biome Caused by Clostridium septicum
Authors: de Sousa Loise Araújo , da Silva Leandro Oliveira , Moura Márcio Alan Oliveira , Duarte Marcos Dutra , Cerqueira Valíria Duarte , Silva Rodrigo Otávio Silveira , Salvarani Felipe Masiero
Published: March 2024

Gas gangrene refers to severe necrotizing syndromes in soft tissues of animals caused by Clos-tridium. Five species of histotoxic clostridia are responsible for myonecroses. These agents require a port of entry, such as skin punctures with needles contaminated with bacterial spores. The present case report describes the clinicopathological findings of gas gangrene in a male Quarter horse living in the Brazilian Amazon biome. Clinical examination revealed clinical signs of toxemia and an enlarged left limb. The anamnesis found the administration of medication to this limb. The animal died five hours after its arrival at the veterinary hospital. At necropsy, histopathological lesions characterized by intense muscle necrosis, liquefaction, and gas formation were observed, suggestive of Clostridium lesions, which were confirmed by multiplex PCR. C. septicum was the etiological agent identified.
Prevalence of Condom Use and Associated Factors among Undergraduate Students of Gulu University.
Authors: Otim Brian , Okot Jerom , Nantale Ritah , Kibone Winnie , Madraa Grace , Okot Christopher , Bongomin Felix
Published: March 2024

Background: Condoms have proven to be an effective contraceptive barrier method of family planning and have played a vital role in preventing sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. However, existing evidence shows that utilization of condoms still remains low, especially among youth and adolescents. We aimed to determine the prevalence of condom use and associated factors among the students of Gulu university in Uganda.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students of Gulu University between June and December 2023. The students were accessed from their respective faculties and chosen using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected using a pretested self-administered structured questionnaire. Condom use was defined as use of either male or female condom in the last sexual encounter in the previous six months.
Results: A total of 404 participants, with a median age of 23 years (interquartile range (21.5-24) years) were enrolled in the study, 54.2%(n=219) of whom were male. Overall, 81.4%(n=329) of the participants were in senior classes (year 2,3,4, and 5) and 18.6%(n=75) were in their first year of study. The prevalence of condom use was 53.7%(n=217). Prevalence of condom use was 50.2%(n=109) among male and 49.8%(n=108) among female students. Year of study (senior class)(aPR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.59, 3.54), having a sexual partner (aPR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.89, 2.94), having a sexual partner within campus (aPR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.69, 2.45), experience of condom bursting (aPR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.08, 1.61), having sex in absence of condoms (aPR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.44, 0.70), alcohol use (aPR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.45) were independently associated with condom use.
Conclusion: Just over half of undergraduate students of Gulu university used condoms during sexual encounters. There should be heighten campaigns on condom use to prevent unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
Unveiling the Future of Human and Machine Coding: A Survey of End-to-End Learned Image Compression
Authors: Huang Chen-Hsiu , Wu Ja-Ling
Published: March 2024

End-to-end learned image compression codecs have notably emerged in recent years. These codecs have demonstrated superiority over conventional methods, showcasing remarkable flexibility and adaptability across diverse data domains while supporting new distortion losses. Despite challenges such as computational complexity, learned image compression methods inherently align with learning-based data processing and analytic pipelines due to their well-suited internal representations. The concept of Video Coding for Machines has garnered significant attention from both academic researchers and industry practitioners. This concept reflects the growing need to integrate data compression with computer vision applications. In light of these developments, we present a comprehensive survey and review of lossy image compression methods. Additionally, we provide a concise overview of two prominent international standards, MPEG Video Coding for Machines and JPEG AI. These standards are designed to bridge the gap between data compression and computer vision, catering to practical industry use cases.
Rationality of Irrational Choice: The Logic of the Prisoner’s Dilemma
Authors: Kagan Eugene , Rybalov Alexander , Yager Ronald
Published: March 2024

The goal of the paper is to clarify the observed irrationality of decision making in conflict situations considered as one-step games of two players. To solve such situations, we consider the asymmetry in the relation of the players to their own rewards and the rewards of the opponents. Formalization of the decision-making process is based on recently developed non-commutative operators of multivalued logic algebra. The suggested method is applied to solve the well-known Prisoners’ dilemma game and the other situations of conflict, where it results in the expected strategies.
ML-Enhanced Live-Video Streaming in Offline MANETs: An Applied Approach
Authors: Jesús-Azabal Manuel , Soares Vasco N. G. J. , Galán-Jiménez Jaime
Published: March 2024

Live video streaming has become one of the main multimedia trends in networks in recent years. Providing Quality of Service (QoS) during live transmissions becomes a challenge due to the stringent requirements for low latency and minimal interruptions. This scenario has led to a high dependence on cloud services, implying a widespread usage of Internet connections, which constrains contexts where an Internet connection is not available. Thus, alternatives such as Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) emerge as potential communication techniques. These networks operate autonomously with mobile devices serving as nodes, without the need for coordinating centralized components. However, these characteristics lead to challenges to live-video streaming, such as dynamic node topologies or periods of disconnection. Considering these constraints, this paper investigates the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based classification techniques to provide adaptive streaming in MANETs. For this, a software-driven architecture is proposed to route stream in offline MANETs, predicting the stability of individual links and compressing video frames accordingly. The proposal has been implemented and assessed in a laboratory context, analyzing the model performance and QoS metrics. As a result, the model is implemented in a decision forest algorithm, which provides 95.9% of accuracy. Also, obtained latency values become assumable for video streaming, manifesting a reliable response for routing and node movements.
Implementing Tri-brid Energy Systems for Renewable Integration in Southern Alberta, Canada
Authors: Aftab Mohammad Adnan , Byrne James , Hazendonk Paul , Johnson Dan Johnson , Spencer Locke , Weis Tim
Published: March 2024

The steep decline in the price of wind and solar photovoltaics provides a possibility to decarbonize electricity deeply and affordably. This study uses HOMER Pro energy modeling tool to model an optimized grid-connected renewable energy system for a community in southern Alberta, Canada. The study's goal is to identify the best renewable energy technology combinations that can provide electricity at the lowest levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and has lesser greenhouse gas emission as compared to the electricity produced by traditional fossil fuel. Gleichen, is a small town in southern Alberta and is near to numerous commercial wind and solar projects given the region’s high quality renewable resources. “Tri-brid” systems consisting of wind turbines, solar photovoltaics, and battery energy storage systems (BESS) are considered and compared based on electricity prices, net present cost, and greenhouse gas emissions savings. This tri-brid system is connected to the grid to sell excess electricity generated or buying electricity when there is less or no availability of solar and wind. The tri-brid energy system has an estimated LCOE of 0.0705 CAD/kWh which is competitive with the price of electricity generated by natural gas and coal which is 0.127 CAD/kWh.