bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE EFFECT OF INTEREST RATES AND INFLATION ON ISLAMIC STOCK RETURNS IN COMPANIES LISTED ON THE JAKARTA ISLAMIC INDEX
Authors: Cahyanti Irni Sri , Janwari Yadi , Solehudin Ending , Jubaedah Dedah
Published: July 2024

This research is motivated by macroeconomic fluctuations through interest rates and inflation followed by fluctuations in Islamic stock returns. This study aims to describe and analyze: 1) The effect of interest rates on Islamic stock returns in companies listed on the Jakarta Islamic Index; 2) The effect of inflation on the return of Islamic stocks in companies listed on the Jakarta Islamic Index; 3) The effect of interest rates and inflation simultaneously on the return of in companies listed on the Jakarta Islamic Index. This research method is with quantitative types, descriptive methods of analysis and empirical juridical approaches. The samples used by 8 companies listed in the Jakarta Islamic Index for the 2016-2022 period were taken by purposive sampling techniques. Data collection techniques use documentation through secondary data and data analysis methods (Panel Data Regression). The results showed that: 1) Interest rates partially had a positive and insignificant effect on the return of Islamic shares in companies listed on the Jakarta Islamic Index; 2) Inflation partially has a positive and insignificant effect on the return of sharia shares in companies listed on the Jakarta Islamic Index; 3) Simultaneously, interest rates and inflation have an insignificant effect on the return of Islamic stocks in companies listed on the Jakarta Islamic Index.
SKELETON ANALYSIS OF Tursiops truncatus REGIO COSTAE AND SCAPULA STRANDED ON SENGGIGI BEACH, WEST LOMBOK
Authors: Qodri Hasby faizul , Rahmawati Septyana Eka , Riwu Katty Hedriana Priscilia , Barmawi Muhammad , Kholik
Published: July 2024

The dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is the most studied and most common species of cetacean in captivity. In this study, the size results obtained were the ribs and scapula. The first measure is a difference from the proximal to the distal end between the literature and this study. the second and third sizes have long, short, and longer proximal to distal differences. The fourth, fifth and sixth sizes show that the bones of T.truncatus are smaller than those of the Numataphocoena yamashitai species and the seventh size shows that the differences between T.truncatus and the Numataphocoena yamashitai species are several short and long costae. For the scapula, the dimensions of the first and second bones are larger than the present study species T.truncatus and Numataphocoena yamashitai. The sizes of the three results from this study are almost the same as the species Numataphocoena yamashitai except for the species Prosqualodon marplesi, which is larger than this study and research in California. The fourth size, which is 49.0 mm from head to tuberculum, is larger than the species T.truncatus and Numataphocoena yamashitai studied. The fifth size, the diameter of the rib head of this research species is smaller than the species Numataphocoena yamashitai and Prosqualodon marplesi, both of which are smaller than T.truncatus, and some of these differences are caused by food, habitat and environmental conditions.
DIFFERENCES IN INTERFERON GAMMA LEVELS IN TREATMENT OF TUBERCULOSIS IN INTENSIVE PHASE AND ADVANCED PHASE
Authors: Kuncara Rachmad Bayu , SY. Didik Widiyanto  , Ririh Jatmi Wikandari  , Wiwit Sulistyasmi
Published: July 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC). Anti-tuberculosis drugs given to active TB sufferers consist of 3 or 4 combinations. Tuberculosis treatment is divided into intensive phase treatment (2 weeks) and continuation phase (16 weeks / 4 months). Interferon gamma (IFN Î³) is a protein belonging to the cytokine family which plays a role in eliminating MTB bacteria through a cell-mediated immunity mechanism. The aim of this study was to analyze differences in gamma interferon levels in the intensive phase and advanced phase of tuberculosis treatment. This research method is an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design (cross sectional study). The research design used was a randomized post test only control group design. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal Wallis test with statistical test results obtained with a p value of 0.033 (> 0.05), meaning there was a difference in IFN Î³ levels in the intensive phase and advanced phase of tuberculosis treatment.
Planificación automática de trayectorias libres de colisión para robots en entornos 3D
Authors:   , Rodríguez Urbano Francisco José
Published: July 2024

La realización de tareas en entornos 3D complejos, mediante el uso de robots, presenta como problema clave la planificación de trayectorias libres de colisión. Este problema consiste en encontrar una serie de configuraciones intermedias para un robot, de forma que éste se mueva de un punto inicial a un punto final, evitando las posibles colisiones, no sólo con los obstáculos del entorno, sino también con el propio robot y la pieza que éste transporta durante algunas fases de la tarea. En esta tesis se presenta el desarrollo e implementación de un entorno de programación para la planificación y generación automática de trayectorias libres de colisión de robots articulares de hasta seis grados de libertad, en entornos 3D modelados por poliedros rectos. Los paquetes desarrollados han sido implementados y verificados en varios robots reales, y aplicados a la resolución de tareas complejas como el transporte de piezas de grandes dimensiones
A Novel Static Analysis Approach Using System Calls for Linux IoT Malware Detection
Authors: Ramamoorthy Jayanthi , Gupta Khushi , Kafle Ram C. , Shashidhar Narasimha K. , Varol Cihan
Published: July 2024

The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices on Linux platforms has heightened concerns regarding vulnerability to malware attacks. This paper introduces a novel approach to investigating the behavior of Linux IoT malware by examining syscalls and library syscall wrappers extracted through static analysis of binaries, as opposed to the conventional method of using dynamic analysis for syscall extraction. We rank and categorize Linux system calls based on their security significance, focusing on understanding malware intent without execution.Feature analysis of the assigned syscall categories and risk ranking is conducted with statistical tests to validate their effectiveness and reliability in differentiating between malware and benign binaries. Our findings demonstrate that potential threats can be reliably identified with an F1 score of 96.86%, solely by analyzing syscalls and library syscall wrappers. This method can augment traditional static analysis, providing an effective preemptive measure to enhance Linux malware analysis. This research highlights the importance of static analysis in strengthening IoT systems against emerging malware threats.
Temperature Dependence of the Thermo-Optic Coefficient of GeO2-doped Silica Glass Fiber
Authors: Rego Gaspar Mendes
Published: July 2024

In this paper we derived an expression that allows the determination of the thermo-optic coefficient of weakly-guiding germanium-doped silica fibers, based on the thermal behavior of optical fiber devices, such as, fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs). The calculations rely on the full knowledge of the fiber parameters and on the temperature sensitivity of FBGs. In order to validate the results, we estimated the thermo-optic coefficient of bulk GeO2 glass at 293 K and 1.55 m to be 18.3x10-6 K-1. The determination of this value required to calculate a correction factor which is based on the knowledge of the thermal expansion coefficient of the fiber core, the Pockels’ coefficients (p11=0.125, p12=0.258 and p44=-0.0662) and the Poisson ratio (=0.161) of the SMF-28 fiber. To achieve that goal, we estimated the temperature dependence of the thermal expansion coefficient of GeO2 and we discussed the dispersion and temperature dependence of Pockels’ coefficients. We have presented expressions for the dependence of the longitudinal and transverse acoustic velocities on the GeO2 concentration used to calculate the Poisson ratio. We have also discussed the dispersion of the photoelastic constant. An estimate for the temperature dependence of the thermo-optic coefficient of bulk GeO2 glass is presented for the 200-300 K temperature range.
Bacterial Communities Across Multiple Ecological Niches (Water, Sediment, Plastic, and Snail Gut) in Mangrove Habitats
Authors: Al-Tarshi Muna Hashil , Dobretsov Sergey , Al Belushi Mohammed A.
Published: July 2024

Microbial composition across substrates in mangroves, particularly in the Middle East, remains unclear. This study characterized bacterial communities in sediment, water, Terebralia palustris snail guts, and plastic associated with Avicennia marina mangrove forests in two coastal lagoons in the Sea of Oman using 16S rDNA gene MiSeq sequencing. The genus Vibrio dominated all substrates except water, which featured unique genera Sunxiuqinia and Pseudomonas. There were significant differences in bacterial communities on different substrata, in particular plastic. Snail guts harbored the highest number of unique Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) in both lagoons. Plastic in the polluted Sawadi lagoon with low salinity harbored distinct genera like Vibrio, Aestuariibacter, Zunongwangia, and Jeotgalibacillus absent in Qurum lagoon with higher salinity and low pollution. Sawadi lagoon exhibited higher species diversity in sediment and plastic substrates, Qurum lagoon demonstrated lower overall species diversity. The PCA indicates that environmental factors like salinity, pH, and nutrient levels significantly influence bacterial community composition across substrates. Variations in organic matter and potential anthropogenic influences, particularly from plastics, further shape bacterial communities. This study highlights the complex microbial communities in mangrove ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of considering multiple substrates in mangrove microbial ecology studies.
A Comparison of Reading Strategies Among Spanish Speaking University Students in Different Programs of English for Specific Purposed
Authors: Ribadeneira Vacacela Andrea Sofia
Published: July 2024

This study examined the relationships of reading strategies among different programs of English for Specific Purposes (ESP). A total of ninety-seven students in four ESP programs in Ecuador were surveyed regarding their reading strategies. The results found that there were significant differences among the four programs. These findings were discussed in regard to whether differences in reading strategies could potentially influence teaching effectiveness, learning outcomes, and English language applications.
Machine Learning for Valve Plate Fault Prediction of Piston Pump
Authors: Rojek Marcin , Blachnik Marcin
Published: July 2024

The article evaluates the use of machine learning methods to predict valve plate failures in hydraulic pumps. To conduct this assessment, a laboratory setup was developed that allowed the creation of a training dataset containing both the normal operating state of the pump and the operating state with three different valve plate damages. Five different predictive models were evaluated, including three composite models based on decision trees: Random Forest, Gradient-Boosted Trees, and Rotation Forest, as well as the kNN algorithm and a neural network. The analysis showed that neural networks achieved the highest prediction accuracy, enabling a prediction accuracy level of 89%. The kNN algorithm ranked second, and tree-based algorithms performed 4% worse than the neural network. Additionally, the attribute importance analysis revealed that leak flow, pressure output together with output flow, are the most important parameters for accurate prediction.
The Impact of the Expansion and Contraction of China Cities on Carbon Emissions, 2002–2021, Evidence from Integrated Nighttime Light Data
Authors: Qian Jiaqi , Guan Yanning , Yang Tao , Ruan Aoming , Yao Wutao , Deng Rui , Wei Zhishou , Zhang Chunyan , Guo Shan
Published: July 2024

Urbanization is a dynamic process. At different stages of urbanization, polices of managing car-bon emissions should be adjusted. In this paper, two types of nighttime light data and statistical data of 68 cities in China from 2002 to 2021 are used to establish an urban development evalua-tion system comprising population, economy, construction, and society subsystems. Then, cities were categorized into expanding, contracting, and stable types to understand the uncertainty of urbanization's impact on carbon emissions. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) Integrated nighttime light data is used to extract built-up area boundaries, achieving an overall accuracy ranging from 68.75% to 98.4%, with kappa coefficients ranging between 0.60 and 0.94. (2) Ex-panding cities were concentrated in the eastern coastal regions, while contracting cities were mainly located in inland cities with traditional industries. Urban agglomerations in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Yangtze River Delta region, and Chengdu-Chongqing metropolitan demonstrate synchronized characteristic of urbanization development. (3)Economy and con-struction have a greater impact on carbon emissions than population and society. For expanding cities, the focus of carbon emission governance should prioritize rational land use planning. Conversely, for contracting cities, emphasis should be placed on adjusting economic structures.
Knowledge Management in the Practice of Economic and Social Activities of the West Pomeranian Local Government in the Field of Mitigating the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sikora Mariusz , Romańczuk Michał , Miciuła Ireneusz
Published: July 2024

The West Pomeranian Anti-Crisis Package was an effective tool of the Voivodeship Executive Board of West Pomeranian self-government, which was used to combat and counteract and counteract the social and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Anti-Crisis Package was prepared with a view to undertaking systemic, but also point-based measures in order to save and protect regional health care, entrepreneurs, the labour market, but also to use the existing social capital of non-governmental organizations involved in measures reducing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The West Pomeranian Anti-Crisis Package, as evidenced not only by the financial outlays incurred, but also by the outcome of implementing measures achieved in 2020 and their continuation in 2021.
Sputnik V-induced Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 Variants during the Dissemination of the Gamma Variant in Venezuela
Authors: Franco Christopher , Cornejo Alejandro , Rodríguez Mariajosé , García Alexis , Belisario Inirida , Mayora Soriuska , García Alexis , Jaspe Rossana Celeste , Hidalgo Mariana , Parra Nereida , Liprandi Ferdinando , Zambrano José Luis , Rangel Hector Rafael , Pujol Flor Helene
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic was characterized by the emergence and succession of SARS-CoV-2 variants able to evade the antibody response induced by natural infection and vaccination. In this study, IgG reactivity and neutralizing capacity of the serum of individuals vaccinated with Sputnik V was determined against the spike glycoprotein (S) of the ancestral and different viral variants. At 42 days’ post vaccination, the frequency of recognition and reactivity to S protein of the omicron variant was lower compared to the other variants. There was higher reactivity to Alpha and Delta S protein compared to ancestral S protein. A higher neutralization titer was seen against the ancestral variant compared to the variants, especially Omicron. Some sera exhibited a higher neutralization titer to the Gamma variant, compared to the ancestral variant. This may be due to exposure to this variant during the period of its spread in the country, which coincided with the period of the clinical trial. A correlation was found between reactivity to S and neutralization titer to each variant. These results suggest that antibodies induced by Sputnik-V can recognize, persist and neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating in Venezuela, with Omicron being the one that best evades this response.
Inter-molecular Interactions of High Concentration Antibody Formulation Resulting in Problems of Viscosity, Opalescence and Phase Separation
Authors: Arakawa Tsutomu , Nishinami Suguru , Shiraki Kentaro , Tomioka Yui , Akuta Teruo
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Currently, antibodies are major therapeutic modalities in biopharmaceutical research and development. Because of required high dose for certain clinical applications, antibodies are formulated at high protein concentration for convenience of administration, shipping and storage. We will describe the inter-molecular interactions that can occur in such a crowded environment of high protein concentration. Two types of repulsive interactions, i.e., electrostatic and excluded volume effects, and three types of attractive interactions, i.e., hydrophobic, electrostatic and cross-linking, need to be considered in such a crowded environments. We then show consequences of such inter-molecular interactions, leading to high viscosity, opalescence and phase separation of antibody solutions. Co-solvents are used to control the stability, structure and molecular interactions and thereby to alleviate these solution problems. Among various co-solvents, arginine has been extensively used to suppress protein-protein interactions at high protein concentration. Arginine weakly but extensively interacts with aromatic/hydrophobic groups as well as charged groups on proteins, leading to effective suppression of viscosity, opalescence and phase separation of antibody solution.
Improved Strategies for Modeling Sick Sinus Syndrome in Rats: Balancing Efficacy and Animal Care
Authors: He Liming , Shi Xinxin , Wang Yucheng , Huang Shuwei
Published: July 2024

Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a disease of sinus rhythm abnormalities. This study aimed to establish an SSS model by injecting 3% NaOH into the jugular vein(JV). Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham, 3% NaOH, and 10% NaOH groups. Anesthetized rats underwent electrocardiogram recording before right JV exposure. Rats in the experimental groups received NaOH injections at 0.01 ml/s, while the sham group did not. Model success was evaluated after one hour. Heart rate(HR) and rhythm were documented at 1 hour, 1 week, and 2 weeks post-molding, including HE staining, membrane ion transcription and expression, and calcium ion content test. In the 3% NaOH group, the model establishment rate was 87%, and the mortality rate was 13%, whereas in the 10% NaOH group, they were 57% and 43% respectively (P < 0.01). The HR of the 3% NaOH group decreased at multiple time points post-molding (P < 0.001), presenting as arrhythmias such as sinus bradycardia. The JV sustained less damage, with necrosis of P cells, changes in membrane ion channels, and reduced calcium ion distribution. In conclusion, JV injection of 3% NaOH can establish the SSS model and benefit animals.
BDNF-Regulated Modulation of Striatal Circuits and Implications for Neurological Diseases
Authors: Wolf Daniel , Ayon-Olivas Maurilyn , Sendtner Michael
Published: July 2024

Neurotrophins, particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), act as key regulators of neuronal development, survival and plasticity. In this review, we focus on the role of BDNF for corticostriatal plasticity in movement disorders, including Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and dystonia. We discuss the mechanisms how dopaminergic input modulates BDNF/TrkB signaling at corticostriatal synapses and the involvement of these mechanisms in neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Disruption of these pathways can lead to aberrant plasticity, ultimately affecting motor function. Advancing our understanding of these mechanisms could pave the way towards innovative therapeutic strategies aiming at restoring neuroplasticity and enhancing motor function in these diseases.
Celiac Disease Image Classification using Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Carreras Joaquim
Published: July 2024

Celiac disease is a gluten-sensitive immune-mediated enteropathy of the small intestine that occurs in genetically predisposed individuals. Abnormal immune response results in mucosal inflammation, villous atrophy, and crypt hyperplasia. This study was a proof-of-concept exercise that used a convolutional neural network to classify hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) histological images of celiac disease, normal small intestine control, and non-specified duodenal inflammation; 7294, 11,642, and 5966 images, respectively. The trained network classified celiac disease images with high performance (accuracy 99.7%, precision 99.6%, recall 99.3%, F1-score 99.5%, and specificity 99.8%). Interestingly, when the same network (already trained for the 3 class images), analyzed duodenal adenocarcinoma (3723 images), the new images were classified as duodenal inflammation in 63.65%, small intestine control in 34.73%, and celiac disease in 1.61% of the cases. Finally, when the network was retrained using the 4 histological subtypes of images, all performance parameters were above 99% for celiac disease. In conclusion, the convolutional neural network (CNN)-based deep neural system was able to classify medical histological images with high performance. Narrow artificial intelligence (AI) is designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, but it operates within limited constraints and is task specific.
Interpolation of Nitrogen Fertilizer Use in Canada from Fertilizer Use Surveys
Authors: Dyer James Arthur , Pearson Angela , Desjardins Raymond Louis
Published: July 2024

Because Canadian Nitrogen (N) fertilizer use has more than doubled since 1990 (1.2 to 2.9 MtN by 2021), a better understanding of this trend is needed. A comprehensive set of Recommended N Rates (RNR) that agreed with fertilizer sales data from 1996 and 2001 was compared with the Fertilizer Use Survey (FUS). The FUS was conducted from 2014 to 2021, with 2017 being the most representative year for these data. Using non-parametric statistics, confidence intervals were derived from the histograms used to present the FUS data. N application rates from the RNR for Canola, Spring and Duram wheat, and Oats in the west were all below their respective FUS confidence intervals, whereas N application rates for Grain corn showed almost no difference in N use between the RNR and FUS. Crop-specific N application rates interpolated from the RNR and FUS were integrated over their respective crop areas and plotted against national fertilizer sales records from 1990 to 2021. The rapid increase in N use between 2001 and 2017 (0.89 MtN), 90% of it (0.80 MtN) in Western Canada, was primarily due to increased application rates per crop, rather than crop area changes. The FUS-RNR interpolations were a good approximation of N sales records and could improve farm GHG emissions modelling. The economically important crops in Western Canada should be the main focus for N-related GHG reduction measures, but production losses need to be avoided.
Use of Cosmetics in Pregnancy and Neurotoxicity: Increased Risk of Congenital Enteric Neuropathies
Authors: Jones Kendra , Wessel Lucas M. , Schäfer Karl-Herbert , Tapia-Laliena María Ángeles
Published: July 2024

The inclusion of various chemical substances in personal care products (PCPs) and cosmetic formulations can be associated with disruption and damage to the nervous system. Microplastics, benzophenones, parabens, phthalates and metals are among the most common chemical substances found in cosmetics that have been shown to induce neurotoxic mechanisms. Although cosmetic neurotoxin exposure is believed to be minimal, different exposure scenarios of cosmetics suggest that these neurotoxins remain a threat. Special attention should be paid to early exposure in the first gestation weeks, when critical processes, like the migration and proliferation of the neural crest derived cells start to form the ENS. Importantly, cosmetic’s neurotoxins can cross the placenta barrier and so affect the future embryo, but are also secreted in the breast milk, so that babies remain exposed for longer periods, even after birth. In this review we explore how neurotoxins contained in cosmetic and PCPs may have a role in the pathogenesis of various neurodevelopment disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, and therefore also in congenital enteric aganglionosis as well as in postnatal motility disorders. Understanding the mechanisms of these chemicals used in cosmetic formulations and their role in neurotoxicity is crucial to determining the safety of use for cosmetic products during pregnancy.
Innovative Optimization of Darrieus Vertical Turbines Farms via Machine Learning and Meta-Heuristic Algorithms
Authors: Zareh Masoud , Sattarzadeh Saem
Published: July 2024

This study optimizes the placement and farm layout of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) using a neural fuzzy network, an advanced machine learning system, and meta-heuristic algorithms. The methodology introduces a novel approach to enhance turbine efficiency and overall farm performance. The objective is to determine the optimal configuration of vertical axis wind turbines using a neural-fuzzy system and meta-heuristic optimizers. Turbine efficiency and power generation rates are assessed through three-dimensional numerical simulations based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations. This innovative design, featuring straight blades with bevel-angle vortex generators, represents a significant advancement over traditional straight-blade VAWTs. Comparative analyses demonstrate that the oblique configuration exhibits higher average output moment and power. A novel concept integrates the strengths of Darrieus VAWTs, enhancing efficiency through vortex generator integration. Simulation results are validated with empirical data, confirming the superior aerodynamic efficiency and increased power generation of the oblique configuration. Inspired by the optimal group movements of birds, this study recommends adopting the oblique arrangement for improved wind turbine performance.
Current-Mode Control of a Distributed Buck Converter with a Lossy Transmission Line
Authors: Röbenack Klaus , Gerbet Daniel
Published: July 2024

This article presents a buck converter in which the inductor has been replaced by a transmission line. This approach would be practically conceivable if the power supply and load have a greater spatial distance. In the time domain, this new converter can be described by a system of coupled partial and ordinary differential equations. In the frequency domain, a transcendental transfer function is obtained. For comparison with an equivalently parameterized conventional converter, Padé approximants are derived. A linear controller is designed for the converter topology under consideration.
Real-Time Home Automation System using BCI Technology
Authors: Drăgoi Marius Valentin , Nisipeanu Ionuț , Frimu Aurel , Tălîngă Ana Maria , Hadăr Anton , Dobrescu Tiberiu Gabriel , Suciu Cosmin Petru , Manea Andrei Rareș
Published: July 2024

Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) processes and converts brain signals to provide 20 commands to output devices to carry out certain tasks. The main purpose of BCI is to replace or 21 restore missing or damaged functions of disabled people including neuromuscular disorders like 22 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), cerebral palsy, stroke, or spinal cord injury. Hence, BCI does 23 not use neuromuscular output pathways. Scientists have used several techniques like 24 Electroencephalography (EEG), intracortical, and Electrocorticographic (ECoG) to collect brain 25 signals which are used to control robotic arms, prosthetics, wheelchairs, and several other devices. 26 The non-invasive method of EEG is used for collecting and monitoring the signals of the brain. 27 Implementing EEG-based BCI technology in home automation systems may facilitate a wide range 28 of tasks for people with disabilities. It is important to assist and empower individuals with paralysis 29 to engage with existing home automation systems and gadgets in this particular situation. This 30 paper proposed a home security system to control a door and a light using EEG-based BCI. The 31 system prototype consists of the EMOTIV Insight™ headset, Raspberry PI 4, servo motor to 32 open/close the door, and LED. The system can be very helpful for disabled people including arm 33 amputees who cannot close/open doors or use remote control to turn on/turn off doors. The system 34 includes an application made in Flutter to receive notifications on the smartphone related to the 35 status of the door and the LEDs. The disabled person can control the door as well as the LED using 36 his/her brain signals detected by the EMOTIV Insight™ headset.
In Search of Phytoremediation Candidates: Eu(III) Bioassociation and Root Exudation in Hydroponically Grown Plants
Authors: Klotzsche Max , Dück Viktor , Drobot Björn , Vogel Manja , Raff Johannes , Stumpf Thorsten , Steudtner Robin
Published: July 2024

Lanthanides and actinides are emerging contaminants, but little is known about their uptake and distribution by plants and their interactions in the rhizosphere. To better understand the fate of these metals in plants, we assessed the bioassociation of 2, 20 and 200 µM Eu(III) by five hydroponically grown crops endemic to Europe. The metal’s concentration and its speciation was monitored by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and laser spectroscopy, whereas root exudation was investigated by chromatographic methods. It has been shown, that Eu(III) bioassociation is a two-stage process, involving rapid biosorption followed by accumulation in root tissue and distribution to the stem and leaves. Within 96 h of exposure time, the plant induces a change of Eu(III) speciation in the liquid medium, from a predominant Eu(III) aquo species, as calculated by thermodynamic modelling, to a species with longer luminescence lifetime. Root exudates such as citric, malic, and fumaric acid were identified in the cultivation medium and affect Eu(III) speciation in solution, as was shown by a change in the thermodynamic model. These results contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the fate of lanthanides in the biosphere and provide a basis for further investigations with the chemical analogues Cm(III) and Am(III).
Weighted Composition Operators between Bers-Type Spaces on Generalized Hua-Cartan-Hartogs Domains
Authors: Wang Ziyan , Su Jianbing
Published: July 2024

We address weighted composition operators between Bers-type spaces on generalized Hua-Cartan-Hartogs domains and provide necessary and sufficient conditions for their boundedness and compactness. We then apply our results to study the boundedness and the compactness of weighted composition operators between Bers-type spaces on five different domains: generalized Hua domains, Cartan-Hartogs domains, generalized Cartan-Hartogs domains, generalized Cartan-Hartogs domains over different Cartan domains and generalized ellipsoidal-type domains.
The Carbon Footprint of Spanish University Websites
Authors: Sanchez-Cuadrado Sonia , Morato Jorge
Published: July 2024

first_pagesettingsOrder Article ReprintsOpen AccessArticleThe Carbon Footprint of Spanish University Websitesby Sonia Sanchez-Cuadrado 1 andJorge Morato 2,*1Department of Library and Information Science, Complutense University of Madrid, 28010 Madrid, Spain2Department of Computer Science, Carlos III University of Madrid, Leganes, 28911 Madrid, Spain*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5670; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135670 (registering DOI)Submission received: 31 May 2024 / Revised: 22 June 2024 / Accepted: 23 June 2024 / Published: 3 July 2024(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Education in the Digital Society: Applying Communication Technologies and Digital Tools to Education) Downloadkeyboard_arrow_down Browse Figures Versions NotesAbstractThe consumption of digital content is essential for economic and scientific development, leading to a high dependence on information and communication technologies, which significantly impacts the environment. Quantifying this ecological impact is challenging due to its intangible nature and the diversity of factors. This research focuses on assessing the energy consumption and CO2 production of Spanish university websites to evaluate their levels of digital pollution and environmental impact. The calculation of the carbon footprint considers factors related to energy consumption and the use of green or renewable energies. The findings indicate that only 17% of university websites can be considered environmentally friendly. There are significant differences in CO2 consumption and emissions depending on whether the websites implement environmentally sound practices. This study highlights the lack of initiatives aimed at reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with web information management. The study shows that Spanish universities have the potential to contribute to the reduction in CO2 emissions by implementing sustainable development practices on their websites. Furthermore, it fosters awareness about technology usage and its environmental impact, promoting the adoption of green and sustainable approaches.
Tool Path Design of Metal Powder Extrusion in Additive Manufacturing for Suppressing Shape Error Caused During Sintering
Authors: Suzuki Tomoya , Tateno Toshitake
Published: July 2024

Metal Additive manufacturing (AM) can produce mechanical parts of complex structures such as lattice structures and hollow structures that are difficult to fabricate by subtractive processing. The main AM methods using metal materials are powder bed fusion (PBF), directed energy deposition (DED), and material extrusion (ME). The ME method is acknowledged as being inexpensive and convenient for manufacturing parts. However, the ME method using metal material requires a sintering process using a furnace after the AM process. Sintering generates shape errors in parts with a hollow structure, which is a characteristic of AM. Various factors cause shape errors, including the temperature control parameters in sintering. In this study, we investigated the effect of tool paths on shape errors caused in sintering and proposed a tool path that suppresses shape error. Experiments on the effect of the infill structure on shape error revealed that a smooth contact between the contour path and infill path can suppress shape errors in sintering. It was also determined that the overlap of infill paths decreases shape errors in sintering. These results demonstrate that the dominant factor causing shape errors is the tool path, rather than the kind of the infill structure. Based on this result, another experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of tool paths on shape errors in sintering. Among the tool path features, we focused on the material amount instability caused by retraction and excessive self-overlapping at the contact points between the contour and infill paths. The results demonstrated that the unstable feeding of material at the contact points owing to retraction and excessive self-overlapping caused a non-uniform filling rate and thickness variations in the specimens. This, in turn, affected the shape error in sintering.
Fabrication of Rose Petal Surface Using Release-Coated UV-Curable Resin via Ultraviolet Nanoimprint Lithography
Authors: Wakasa Takuto , Fujiwara Kazuki , Taniguchi Jun
Published: July 2024

Organisms often have superior abilities. For example, the moth’s eyes block the reflection of light, preventing even the slightest light from escaping. Morpho butterflies have vivid colors despite their lack of pigmentation. The superhydrophobicity of lotus leaves is another example, which is attributed to their characteristic surface structure. We have recreated an interesting property by mimicking the structure of rose petals. When a drop of water falls on a rose petal, it adheres to the petal like a sphere. The droplets stay in place when the petals are inverted in this state. This phenomenon is called the rose petal effect. The surface of the petals is lined with microscale hemispherical structures, and each surface has additional nanoscale grooves. The effect is due to the hierarchical structure of nano- and microstructures. When water is dropped onto these structures, the surfaces of the nanostructures become air pockets, preventing water from entering the grooves. This results in stronger water repellency compared to that of the same material with a smooth surface. In contrast, when water penetrates the microstructure, the surface area becomes larger than that of a smooth surface, increasing adhesion. This is called the Wenzel mode. Here, we attempted to reproduce this structure on film using a combination of high-throughput techniques; ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography (UV-NIL) and roll pressing. The manufacturing process comprises two main steps. First, a nanopillar structure called a moth-eye structure is fabricated over the entire surface using UV-NIL. This serves the same purpose as the nanoglobe structure. Next, microscale holes are drilled on the surface using a roll press method. The resulting depressions immobilize water droplets and improve adhesion. Despite the strong water repellency obtained through this method, with a contact angle of more than 140±b°, up to 9 µL of water droplets remained attached to the film even when the film was turned over. Because this method can impart adhesion at any position on the water-repellent surface, it can be applied to microdroplet transport.
Öznenin Epistemik Dışlayıcılığından Nesnenin Nesneliğine: Alev Ebüzziya’nın Sonsuz Formda Sade Çanakları
Authors: Zararsız Pınar , Küçükalp Kasım
Published: July 2024

Sanat, tarih boyunca duygu ve düşüncelerin estetik tezahürü olarak kendini gösterirken, felsefe ise daha çok kavramsal ve teorik bir düşünme biçimi olarak ilerlemiştir. Bu iki disiplinin etkileşimi, düşüncenin salt bir zihinsel süreç olmaktan çıkıp, estetik bir biçimde ifade edilmesi gerekliliği üzerinde önemli bir felsefi tartışma alanı açmıştır. Özellikle 19. yüzyılda başlayan düşüncenin estetize edilmesi tartışmaları, günümüz felsefelerinde önemini korumaktadır. Bu düşüncenin temelinde yatan sebep, modern düşüncenin epistemik özneye merkezi ve dışlayıcı bir ontolojik statü vermesiyle ortaya çıkan özne-nesne dikotomisinin yarattığı indirgemeci, totalleştirici ve mütahakkim bakış açısıdır. Sanat, özellikle, Heidegger’in alımladığı şekliyle, bu indirgemeci tutumun aşılması, hakikatin açığa çıkması ve sonsuza tanıklık etme imkanını sağlaması ile önemli bir araç olarak görülür.

Sanat ve felsefenin kesiştiği noktada, Alev Ebüzziya’nın seramik çanakları, yalnızca estetik nesneler olarak değil, derinlemesine bir felsefi soruşturmanın somut örnekleri olarak değerlendirilmektedir. Onun eserleri, özne-nesne dikotomisinin dayattığı sınırları bulanıklaştırır, anlamı yeniden düşünmeye davet eder, mutlak normlara meydan okur. Heidegger'in sanatın hakikati açığa çıkarmada nasıl bir araç olduğunu vurgulayan görüşleri, Ebüzziya'nın çalışmalarının anlam dünyasını kavramak için önemli bir referans noktası sunar. Bu makale, Türk seramik sanatçısı Alev Ebüzziya’nın sonsuz formda sade çanaklarını sanat felsefesi perspektifinden değerlendirerek, düşüncenin estetize edilmesi gerekliliği üzerine ortaya konmuş felsefi yaklaşımlarla ilişkisini kurmaktadır.
Ultrahigh thermal stability and piezoelectricity of lead-free piezoceramics through mimicking PZT’s MPB structure
Authors: Zhai Jiwei , xu lihui , Lin Jinfeng , yang yuxuan , zhao zhihao , Shi Xiaoming , Ge Guanglong , Qian Jin , Shi Cheng , li guohui , wang siming , zhang yang , Shen Bo , Fu Zhengqian , Huang Houbing , Wu Haijun
Published: July 2024

High-performance (K, Na)NbO3 (KNN) based piezoceramics is attractive as an alternative to Pb-based piezoceramics because of the growing concerns for environmental sustainability. Unfortunately, the serious contradiction between the high piezoelectricity generated by the construction of polymorphic phase boundary (PPB) and their uniquely poor temperature stability is a huge obstacle to the applications for KNN-based ceramics. In this study, the 0.94(Na0.56K0.44)NbO3-0.03Bi0.5Na0.5ZrO3-0.03(Bi0.5K0.5)HfO3 textured ceramics possess a novel phase boundary similar to MPB in PZT via the synergistic optimization of diffusion phase boundary and crystal orientation. As a result, the prominent comprehensive piezoelectricity with a giant d33 ∼ 550 ± 30 pC/N and ultrahigh temperature stability (d33 change rate less than 1.2% within 25 to 150 ℃, and less than 10% within 25-250 °C) were obtained, representing a significant breakthrough in lead-free piezoelectric ceramics. This study demonstrates a strategy of constructing a new-type phase boundary with MPB feature to solve the issue of temperature instability in high-performance KNN-based ceramics, which greatly accelerates the development and application of lead-free piezoelectric ceramics.
Prenatal stress and gestational epigenetic age: No evidence of associations based on a large prospective multi-cohort study
Authors: Murgatroyd Chris , Salontaji Kristina , Smajlagic Dinka , Page Christian , Sanders Faye , Jugessur Astanand , Lyle Robert , Tsotsi Stella , Haftorn Kristine , Felix Janine , Walton Esther , Tiemeier Henning , Cecil Charlotte , Bekkhus Mona
Published: July 2024

Psychological stress during pregnancy is known to have a range of long-lasting negative consequences on the development and health of offspring. Here, we tested whether a measure of prenatal early-life stress was associated with a biomarker of physiological development at birth, namely epigenetic gestational age, using foetal cord-blood DNA-methylation data. Longitudinal cohorts from the Netherlands (Generation R Study [Generation R], n = 1,396), the UK (British Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children [ALSPAC], n = 642), and Norway (Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study [MoBa], n1 = 1,212 and n2 = 678) provided data on prenatal maternal stress and genome-wide DNA methylation from cord blood and were meta-analysed (pooled n = 3,928). Measures of epigenetic age acceleration were calculated using three different gestational epigenetic clocks: “Bohlin”, “EPIC overlap” and “Knight”. Prenatal stress exposure, examined as an overall cumulative score, was not significantly associated with epigenetically-estimated gestational age acceleration or deceleration in any of the clocks, based on the results of the pooled meta-analysis or those of the individual cohorts. No significant associations were identified with specific domains of prenatal stress exposure, including negative life events, contextual (socio-economic) stressors, parental risks (e.g., maternal psychopathology) and interpersonal risks (e.g., family conflict). Further, no significant associations were identified when analyses were stratified by sex. Overall, we find little support that prenatal psychosocial stress is associated with variation in epigenetic age at birth within the general paediatric population.
Astrocytic Bestrophin1 in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex Modulates the Formation and Persistence of Morphine Addiction Memory
Authors: Sun Linlin , Liu Zepeng , Li Yifan , Lin Xiaorui , Huo Yu , Guo Shengyang , Fan Xiang , Ye Xinzhi , Yao Yun , Liu Jiao , Wang Ning , Song Sen , Li Yijing
Published: July 2024

Emerging evidence indicates that astrocytes play a vital role in both the establishment and preservation of memories. However, their specific contribution to addiction-related memory remains largely unresolved. In this study, we observed alterations in Ca2+ dynamics within astrocytes of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) during the acquisition, recent retrieval, and remote retrieval phases of morphine-conditioned place preference (CPP). Selective activation of Gi signaling in ACC astrocytes during the acquisition phase, rather than during retrieval or transfer phases, led to a significant and prolonged increase in the morphine CPP score. In contrast, activation of Gq signaling led to a reduction in the CPP score, which was both diminished and shortened. Additionally, we noted a significant increase in astrocytic Bestrophin 1 (BEST1) expression in the ACC during the morphine CPP acquisition phase. Selective knockdown of BEST1 from ACC astrocytes elevated astrocytic Ca2+ dynamics, expanded astrocytic coverage, alleviated astrocytic glutamate release, and altered the density of synapses between the dorsal hippocampus (dCA1) and ACC within the astrocytic microdomains. Mice lacking astrocytic BEST1 displayed impaired activity in ACCdCA1 neurons and decreased CPP scores. These findings suggest that ACC astrocytes modulate the connectivity between dCA1 and ACC neurons, possibly through extrasynaptic glutamate activity, thereby regulating the strength and persistence of morphine-associated memory.
Advanced Composite Triboelectric Nanogenerator from Bacterial Cellulose and MgAl-LDH Nanosheets: Synthesis, Performance, and Mechanistic insight
Authors: Mohsom Phitchayaphorn , Suktep Natdanai , Pongampai Satana , Pakawanit Phakkhananan , Chiu Te-Wei , Maluangnont Tosapol , Vittayakorn Naratip , Charoonsuk Thitirat
Published: July 2024

Rapid development of modern wearable-implantable medical devices has led to research on mechanical energy harvesting technologies, especially triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) for being sustainable/flexible power supply or self-powered sensor. The most challenge part is searching advanced materials and designing them with excellent electrical performance while being flexible, lightweight, and non-toxic. Layered double hydroxides (LDH) have sparked research interest owing to the facile tunability of composition, morphology, and physicochemical properties. In this work, magnesium aluminum layer double hydroxide (MgAl-LDH) nanosheets were employed as a dielectric filler dispersed onto bacterial cellulose (BC) matrix, prior to the application as a friction layer in TENG. Phase identification, functional groups, and morphology of the nitrate-intercalated MgAl-LDH layered crystals have been investigated, including the nanosheets (NS) colloid exfoliated therefrom in formamide. Mechanistic insight with a detailed discussion of experimental results linked to scientific theory is deeply explained. The optimized BC/MgAl-LDH NS (1.5%v/v) film, simply prepared by casting, delivers the open-circuit voltage (VOC), short-circuit current (ISC), and maximum output power (Pmax) of 88.5 V, 87.7 µA and 1250 µW (138 µW/cm2), respectively. The composite serves not only as a nanogenerator driving 200 LEDs but also as a self-powering sensor detecting finger movements that might be useful for developing trigger finger monitoring in future.