bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Combustion Mode and Thrust Performance of Rotating Detonation Scrarmjet Engines
Authors: Qingwu Wang , Xuedong Zhang
Published: March 2024

This article primarily focuses on the numerical simulation and theoretical analysis of these two combustion modes:deflagration and detonation. The research indicates that as the combustible mixture injected into the combustion chamber increases, the combustion mode transitions from deflagration combustion to self-sustaining detonation combustion and then to forced detonation combustion to maintain stable combustion in the chamber. Under self-sustaining detonation combustion mode, as the amount of combustible mixture injected into the chamber increases, the number of detonation waves gradually increases from one to multiple and the angle between the detonation waves and the inflow changes from acute to right angles. In the forced detonation combustion mode, the minimum shock wave intensity required to initiate detonation combustion can be obtained by drawing a tangent from the Rayleigh line. The structure generating oblique shock waves in the combustion chamber needs to match the shock wave intensity. In the detonation combustion mode, both the exit total temperature and specific impulse of the combustion chamber increase with the increase in Mach number at the inlet, while the pressure ratio decreases. This article provides a reference for the design of the combustion chamber in supersonic combustion ramjet engines.
Human physiologic changes with exposure to a new concept conducted electrical weapon
Authors: Dawes Donald , Ho Jeffrey , Kunz Sebastian , Kuo Jonathan , Knack Sarah
Published: March 2024

Axon Enterprise, Inc. has developed a new concept Conducted Electrical Weapon (CEW). Instead of the traditional high-voltage, electrically paired 2- or 4-probe design, the new CEW uses a lower-voltage, variable waveform, floating probe polarity, independently targeted 10 probe design. With this design, electrical connections can occur between any probes. With 10 probes independently targeted and deployed, field efficacy should be higher than the traditional CEW designs. Additionally, the new CEW uses an ignitable primer system to propel the probes instead of the compressed gas in prior weapons. This, along with other incremental design changes such as thinner wires and a redesigned probe, should afford better accuracy at longer distances and better probe adherence. With the possibility of up to 10 probes on target (the current firmware limits the total connections between probes to 4), the possibility of anterior-posterior transthoracic connections, probes potentially rapidly alternating polarity, a waveform that can vary with load, and with higher velocity probes, this new CEW presents new areas for safety study. The authors used their previously published human physiology methodology to study 8-second exposures using different numbers of probes (up to 6; maximum 4 connections between probes) and connection locations. In our study, venous blood was drawn pre-exposure, immediately post-exposure, at 1 hour and at 24 hours post-exposure. Blood variables studied included potassium, pH, lactate, troponin, CK and catecholamines. EKGs were done immediately pre and post exposure and continuous spirometry was performed. There were 27 subjects in our study. There were no clinically significant blood marker changes except for modest changes in pH and lactate and catecholamines immediately post-exposure consistent with prior weapons and rises in CK which were similar to prior multi-shot weapons. The spirometry data had mixed results. There were no dysrhythmias, ectopy or ischemic changes on any EKGs.
Trends, epidemiology and causes of maternal deaths over a decade (2013-2022) in a context of crisis among 8 health zones in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Mwene-Batu Pacifique , Ndokabilya Eustache , Lembebu Jean Corneille , Ngaboyeka Gaylord , Mary Meighan , tapis Hannah , Dramaix Michelle , chimanuka Christine , Chiribagula Christian , Bigirinama Rosine , hermans Michel P , Bisimwa Ghislain
Published: March 2024

Background
Maternal mortality (MM) remains a real scourge that hits hardest in the poorest regions of the world, particularly those affected by conflict. However, despite this worrying reality, few studies have been conducted about MM in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The study aimed to describe the trends as well as the epidemiological profile and causes of maternal deaths between 2013 and 2022 in Eastern DRC.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted between March 2023 and August 2023 in eight Health Zones (HZ), five in South Kivu Province (Mwana, Minova, Miti-Murhesa, Kamituga and Idjwi) and three in North Kivu Province (Kirotshe, Karisimbi and Kayna) in the eastern region of the DRC. Data from registers and medical records of maternal deaths recorded in these zones over the last 10 years (2013–2022) were extracted along with information on the number of deliveries and live births. Differences in sociodemographic, clinical parameters, Blood and ultrasound tests and suspected causes of death between provinces were assessed using chi-square and non-parametric Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests, with a 5% significance level.
RESULTS
From 2013 to 2022, the study sites experienced two significant drops in MMR (in 2015 and 2018), and a spike in 2016–2017. Nonetheless, the combined MMR (across study sites) started and ended the 10-year study period at approximately the same level (53 in 2013 and 57 in 2022). Overall, 62,6% of the deaths were reported from secondary hospital. Most deaths were of married women in their thirties (93.5%). Almost 47.8% had not completed four antenatal consultations (ANC). The main direct causes of death were, in decreasing order of frequency: post-partum haemorrhage (55.2%), uterine rupture (14.0), hypertensive disorders (8.4%), abortions (7.7%) puerperal infections (2.8%) and placental abruption (0.7%).When comparing among provinces, reported abortion-related maternal mortality (14.1% vs 0%, p = 0,001) was significantly more frequent in North Kivu than in South Kivu.
CONCLUSION
This study imperatively highlights the need for targeted interventions to reduce maternal mortality. By emphasizing the crucial importance of antenatal consultations, intrapartum/immediate post-partum care and quality of care, significant progress can be made in guaranteeing maternal health and reducing many avoidable deaths.
In Vitro Color Stability of Bleached Teeth Using Peroxide-Free Bleaching Gel, Carbamide Peroxide and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: AlKheraif Abdulaziz A. , Wasi Aisha , Adam Tasneem R.
Published: March 2024

This in vitro study investigates the effects of various bleaching agents on the color stability of extracted human teeth in two different staining media, Pepsi and saffron. Twenty human incisors were randomly allocated into four groups: a control group that was not treated with bleach, two groups treated with different concentrations of carbamide peroxide (22% and 16%), and a group treated with a peroxide-free bleaching agent containing phenolmidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP). Color measurements were taken at baseline, after bleaching, and following staining with either Pepsi or saffron. Statistical analysis revealed the bleaching treatments significantly affected the color, with the PAP-based bleaching agent demonstrating the lowest level of color change. Post hoc analysis confirmed significant differences between all pairs of groups, with Group 4 (PAP-based) showing the lowest mean color change. The study highlights the efficacy of peroxide-free bleaching agents and underscores its potential as a safe and effective alternative to traditional peroxide-based bleaching agents. Limitations include the in vitro nature of the study and the relatively small sample size. Future research should explore the long-term effects of different bleaching agents and staining conditions on safety and tooth color stability.
Biological Degradation of Aflatoxin in Dried Figs
Authors: KÖSE Senem ÖZTÜRK , BIYIK Hacı Halil
Published: March 2024

In this study, it was aimed to identify the microorganisms isolated from aflatoxin-containing dried figs, the biodegradation of aflatoxin and the products resulting from biodegradation studies. Within the scope of the study, adapted microorganisms in aflatoxin-containing dried figs were isolated and preliminary screening studies were carried out to determine their morphological/molecular identification and aflatoxin degradation properties. In biodegradation studies of aflatoxin, both microorganism cultures and supernatants were examined separately. Aflatoxin biodegradation occurred with the isolated microorganisms Bacillus cereus HBB532, Bacillus safensis HBB 526, Periesta megaterium HBB 522, Zygosaccharomyces rouxii HBB 542 and Zygosaccharomyces pseudorouxii HBB 545. Biodegradation amounts were determined using high pressure liquid chromatography. QTOF-LC/MS analyzes were performed to determine the degradation products formed after biodegradation in the samples where aflatoxin biodegradation took place. With these microorganisms, the amount of aflatoxin in dried figs was reduced by 50% or more. As a result of biodegradation, 22 degradation products were identified. This study is the first aflatoxin biodegradation study conducted using dried figs. In this study, aflatoxin biodegradation was evaluated with the matrix effect.
Effect of Seed Cycling on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Ajith K , Meera raman
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study is to assess the effects of Seed cycling on menstrual cycle, hirsutism and blood sugar in PCOS. 32 women with PCOS who fulfilled the selection criteria were included in this open label interventional study. Menstrual history, measurement of body weight, BMI, random blood sugar and Ferriman Galleway scoring for hirsutism were done at baseline. The subjects were given 10 grams of seeds to be taken every day four times for 3 months.30 subjects completed the study. The above parameters were measured before and after three months. The results were analysed using paired T test. A significant reduction in BMI and Improvement in menstrual cycle was observed after seed therapy. The mean reduction in the BMI, 25.85 ± 3.4 in pre and post its 22.75 ± 4.3 respectively by end of 3 months respectively.
SLAM in Weak Environment Information Applications using Swarm Robots
Authors: Guo Jikai , Li Dayou , Qiu Renxi
Published: March 2024

Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (SLAM) in weak environment information scenarios where there are only sparse and ambiguous references available presents significant challenges. Feature sparsity and repetitive elements of landmarks impose difficulties in establishing stable tracking and lead perception overlap. The point-line matching based approach presented in this paper provides additional geometric context that makes it easier to distinguish between similar features. This method identifies landmarks as points, extrapolates lines from consecutive point observations, and generates point-line pairs using geometric and appearance-based criteria. The pairs serve as unique identifiers for locations and, hence, effectively solves the identical perceptions problem. To optimize this solution further, we introduce the generation of trajectory graphs, allowing the swarm to refine its map and location estimates iteratively. Experimental results validate that our approach outperforms traditional methods in the challenging weak environment information applications.
An Efficient Formulation for Studying the Dynamics of Double-wishbone Suspension of Generic Geometry with Jounce and Steering Inputs
Authors: Ashtekar Vyankatesh , Bandyopadhyay Sandipan
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive theoretical and numerical framework for highly efficient and accurate simulation of the dynamics of complex rigid-body systems. The proposed methodology is demonstrated in the context of a double-wishbone suspension system, which is a representative example of a highly constrained spatial mechanism, since it has five rigid links, a spring and a damper, but possesses only two degrees-of-freedom. The proposed framework is used to simulate the forward and inverse dynamic problems, as well as a combination of both. In the forward dynamic simulation, a system of differential algebraic equations is developed and solved in an efficient manner, reducing the number of ordinary differential equations to be solved to the minimum possible. Consequently, the simulation is found to run 225 times faster than the physical system. The results are verified by comparing them with those obtained from a commercial multi-body dynamic simulator. The proposed framework can be used to simulate similar complex multi-body systems with multiple kinematic constraints.
Organizational profiles and personal factors affecting Health-related quality of life among older persons diagnosed with depressive disorders: path analysis and GEE
Authors:   1.	Thida Mulalint,   2.	Acharaporn Seeherunwong,   3.	Sasima Tongsai,   4.	Napaporn Wanitkun
Published: March 2024

Background
Knowledge about mental health service use for depression, mediating organizational profiles, and personal factors on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among older persons is critical to the health service system. Our study aimed to explore HRQoL six months through one year after persons received services for depression, and explains the effect of organizational profiles and personal factors on HRQoL, mediated through continued mental health service use. It also explains organizational profiles and personal factors affecting HRQoL.
Method
This study is a cross-sectional analytic study with information on 424 older persons (≥ 60 years) diagnosed with depressive disorder (DD)—medical record information provided data on personal and clinical factors. HRQoL and attitude toward depression and its treatment (ATDS) were obtained six months to one year after diagnosis with DD. HRQoL was measured using the EuroQol Group's EQ-5D Index and a visual analog scale (EQ-VAS). Organizational profiles were obtained from the authorized staff of 12 hospitals identified by latent class analysis into two classes. Descriptive statistics and path analysis tested mediated factors, and a marginal linear regression model using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) analyzed the final model.
Results
HRQoL at six months to one year was assessed as good and higher than in previous studies. Continuing mental health service use was not a mediated variable among organizational profiles and personal factors. HRQoL of older persons with DD is associated with personal factors, including age, sex, comorbidity, ATDS, perceived social support, and sufficient income. However, high and low-resource organizational profiles did not affect HRQoL.
Conclusions
These findings are crucial for reconsidering the quality of care and mental health services in general hospitals.
The causal effect of childhood violence on experiences of intimate partner victimisation and perpetration in later adolescence and young adulthood: a cohort study in Uganda
Authors: Carter Daniel , Bhatia Amiya , Allen Elizabeth , Knight Louise , Zinke-Allmang Anja , Nakuti Janet , Mirembe Angel , Akim Aggrey , Atuhaire Lydia , Kyegombe Nambusi , Weiss Helen , Seeley Janet , Datzberger Simone , Namy Sophie , Nevatia Tvisha , Parkes Jenny , Naker Dipak , Devries Karen
Published: March 2024

Eliminating violence against women and children are part of Sustainable Development Goals 4, 5 and 16. Using data from a prospective cohort of 3438 young people in Luwero, Uganda followed at a median age of 13 years, 17 years, and 21 years, we find that childhood violence from teachers, peers, and caregivers increases risk of subsequent intimate partner violence (IPV) victimisation in women and perpetration in men. Among women, risk of adult IPV victimisation is increased by experience of both severe childhood violence, as well as normative acts like corporal punishment. We use a causal mediation analysis to show that childhood violence has long-term impacts on young adulthood IPV victimisation that are not through pathways involving experiences of IPV in adolescence. Our results reinforce the importance of preventing childhood violence and suggest that addressing both normative and severe violence could lower women’s risk of intimate partner violence in early adulthood.
Patterns, outcomes, and preventability of clinically manifest drug-drug interactions in older outpatients: A subgroup analysis from a six-year-long observational study in North India
Authors: Kaur Upinder , Reddy Jaideep , Re Noti Taruni Srija , Gambhir Indrajeet Singh , Yadav Ashish Kumar , Chakrabarti Sankha Shubhra
Published: March 2024

Purpose:
Older adults are vulnerable to adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and drug-drug interactions (DDIs). Evidence on clinically-manifest DDIs in older outpatients is scanty. The present study aims to report clinically-manifest DDIs, their risk factors, and preventive measures.
Methods:
This was a subgroup analysis of a six-year (2015–2021) long prospective study conducted in a tertiary hospital in North India. Older outpatients with ADRs constituted the study participants.
Results
Among 933 ADRs reported in 10400 patient registrations, clinically-manifest DDIs occurred in 199 (21.3%). DDIs accounted for 29.9%, 26.5%, and 21.3% of drug-related metabolic, vascular, and nervous system disorders respectively. Movement disorders (n = 18), hypotension (n = 16), and hypoglycemia (n = 15) were the common manifestations. 86% of DDIs were pharmacodynamic type and 13.1% were immune-mediated. Around 35% of DDIs required hospitalization with hyponatremia, movement disorders, and acute kidney injury as the common reasons. Older adults with Parkinsonism, acute infection, coronary artery disease, neuropsychiatric illness, and diabetes respectively had 3.14, 2.78, 1.97, 1.82-, and 1.77 times higher odds of DDIs. Those receiving ≥ 10 drugs had 5.33 times higher odds of DDIs compared to individuals receiving 1–4 drugs. ‘Avoiding the causative drug’, ‘optimal monitoring of the patient’, and ‘start-low and go-slow’ policy together, could prevent 85% of DDIs.
Conclusions
Every-fifth case of ADRs and nearly one-third of ADR-related hospitalizations in older adults are related to DDIs. Movement disorders, hypotension, and hypoglycemia are the common manifestations. A holistic approach with drug omission, optimal patient monitoring, and slow titration of therapy can prevent significant DDIs in the old.
Enhanced Avalanche Effect Analysis Algorithm Considering both Single and Double Key Pair RSA Algorithms
Authors: Horra Eden Megerssa , Beyene Asrat Mulatu , Techan Sofonias Yitagesu
Published: March 2024

Avalanche effect analysis is one of the metrics used to evaluate the security strength of cryptographic algorithms. Existing Avalanche effect analysis algorithms are based on fixed bit length, statistical & manual inputs, one-bit change only, and manual counting & calculation. They do not, for instance, consider analyzing the strength of double key pair Rivest, Shamir and Adelman (RSA) algorithms that are widely used in cloud platforms. Therefore, in this work, we have proposed an Enhanced Avalanche Effect Analysis Algorithm of Single and Double Key Pair RSA Algorithms (EAE-SDKP-RSA). In this algorithm, N bit changes, flexible bit length, automated counting & calculation, and double key pair RSA are considered. Then, avalanche effect analysis of both single key pair (SKP) and double key pair (DKP) RSA algorithms is conducted and the results are compared using the proposed avalanche effect analysis algorithm. Results show that the avalanche effect performance of RSA, Enhanced and Secured RSA Key Generation Scheme (ESRKGS), Hidden Modulus (HM) RSA, Modified RSA (MRSA) and Double Key Pair and Hidden Modulus (DKPHM) RSA is found to be more than 50%, on average, which shows that they can withstand both direct flipped bit and compliment of flipped bit attacks.
Species Identification of Palm Leaf Manuscript Based on Py-GC/MS
Authors: CHEN Qingle , Yimin YANG , Bin Han , JIANG Hongen
Published: March 2024

Palm Leaf Manuscripts (PLMs) are commonly crafted from leaves of the talipot palm (Corypha umbraculifera) and the palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer). To identify PLMs made from these two palm species, one chemical marker from the talipot palm and three from the palmyra palm are identified by application of Pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). These markers have successfully and been identified in recently manufactured PLMs as well as certain naturally aged PLMs, which indicates that they have specific identification values. The results of principal component analysis (PCA) on selected lignin pyrolysis products reveal a significant difference between the talipot palm and the three groups of the palmyra palm. For the identification of aged PLMs, a combination of the two analytical methods (Py-GC/MS and PCA) is necessary for accurate determination and discrimination of markers. This study provides a solid scientific foundation for determining the source plant species of ancient PLMs.
Enhancing the classification accuracy by intra-concentration and the distance between the class boundaries instead of the class centers
Authors: Tabaghsar Bahman Jafari , Forghani Yahya , Sheibani Reza
Published: March 2024

The softmax loss function is a commonly used loss function in the field of classification, which aims to increase the angle between two classes in feature space. However, it has some limitations such as class overlap and treating all misclassifications equally, and issue with imbalanced classes. Recently, the I2CS (Intra concentration and inter-separability) loss function has been proposed with a different approach from the softmax loss function, which is compressing data at the center and increasing class distance through the class center, which makes it able to overcome some of the limitations such as class-imbalanced problems, outliers and discover samples of unseen classes. Nevertheless, it still suffers from class overlap problem. Therefore, we have designed a new loss function with a novel approach to not only overcome the limitations of the softmax loss function but also address the class overlap issue of I2CS, and be effective in dealing with class imbalances. Furthermore, our purpose loss function has been thoroughly tested on a variety of standard benchmark datasets such as MNIST, CIFAR, and LFW as well as on imbalanced MNIST class, showcasing enhanced performance when contrasted with the softmax loss function and other widely-used loss functions.
Relationship between Farnesoid X Receptor and Macrophage Polarization Status in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yu Hong , Huang Guodong , Li Li , Lei Zhang , Lu Hongda
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Colorectal cancer exhibits insensitivity to immunotherapy, which may be associated with the polarization state of macrophages in the immune microenvironment. This study aims to investigate the expression of the Farnesoid X receptor in colorectal cancer, and analyze its correlation with clinical pathological features and the polarization state of macrophages.
Methods: Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the expression of FXR in colorectal cancer tissues, as well as the infiltration of M1 and M2 macrophages. Statistical analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between farnesoid X receptor expression and clinical pathological characteristics, as well as macrophage polarization status.
Results: The positive rates of farnesoid X receptor in tumor cells and tumor stroma were 29.03% and 45.16%, respectively. The expression of farnesoid X receptor in tumor cells was associated with tumor location. The expression of farnesoid X receptor in tumor stroma was associated with the polarization status of macrophages, with a higher infiltration of M1 macrophages and a higher M1/M2 ratio in the farnesoid X receptor-positive group, indicating better immunotherapy outcomes and a favorable prognosis.
Conclusion: farnesoid X receptor is expressed in both colorectal cancer tumor cells and tumor stroma, and is closely related to the clinical pathological characteristics and immune microenvironment of colorectal cancer.
Enrichment of Artemia franciscana with soybean-lecithin and its beneficial effect on biochemical composition of broodstocks and fatty acids composition of eggs in Cichlid Green Terror (Aequidens rivulatus)
Authors: Jamali Hadi , Ahmadifard Nasrollah , Noori Farzaneh , Agh Naser , Gisbert Enric
Published: March 2024

In the current study, the performance of soybean lecithin-enriched adult Artemia franciscana and its beneficial effects as a replacement for commercial diet were evaluated by determining the biochemical and fatty acid composition of broodstocks and eggs of green terror cichlid (Aequidens rivulatus) for 90 days. Eight hundred and ten fish (3.1 ± 0.2 g) were randomly allotted into glass aquaria (80 L) and assigned to ten dietary treatments at five different replacement levels (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) of the commercial diet (CD) with either un-enriched Artemia (UA) or lecithin-enriched Artemia (EA). Based on the results, enrichment of Adult Artemia with soy lecithin increased body lipid content in 25% EN, 50% EN and 75% EN treatments, although there was no significant difference between dry matter, crude protein and ash between the diet groups (P < 0.05). The highest level of total polar lipid (18.26%) was observed in broodstocks of Green Terror fed 50CD: 50EA. Based on fatty acid composition, the highest amount of saturated fatty acids of broodstocks of Green Terror was revealed in 75CD: 25UA and 50CD: 50UA treatments. The lowest amount of monounsaturated fatty acids was observed in the 50CD: 50EA treatment. The highest amount of DHA (17.81%) was observed in 25CD: 75EAtreatment. The fatty acid analysis of eggs showed significantly higher SFA and lower MUFA in 75CD: 25EA treatment. Furthermore, the PUFA and DHA level exhibit significantly higher in 50CD: 50EA treatment. In conclusion, the 50CD: 50EA diet improved the lipid and fatty acid composition of Green Terror cichlid fish and therefore, this feeding strategy can be recommended in upgrading the nutritional management of this species.
Pomelo Fiber-Stabilized Oil-in-Water Emulsion Gels: Fat Mimetic in Plant-Based Ice Cream
Authors: Li Xuerui , Zhou Shengquan , Chen Haohan , Zhang Ruojie , Wang Lufeng
Published: March 2024

Plant-based ice cream has become a popular option among consumers as it represents a healthy lifestyle. A critical challenge in current research is creating a stable, oil-based system as a cream substitute. This study investigates using a pomelo fiber and soy protein isolate-based emulsion as a viable cream substitute in ice cream. Findings demonstrate that pomelo fiber, combined with soy protein isolate, effectively stabilizes corn oil, forming an oil-in-water emulsion gel. Increasing the proportion of pomelo fiber increases the elastic modulus of the emulsion, reduces the average particle size and improves stability. The gel emulsion oil enhances stability, reduces the ice cream slurry's stability index, and improves overrun rate and melt resistance. Sensory evaluation confirmed that the emulsion gel, based on pomelo fiber and soy isolate protein, acts as an effective and novel fat mimetic in plant-based ice creams, offering a groundbreaking method for replacing traditional fats in their formulation.
Conversing with business process-aware Large Language Models: the BPLLM framework
Authors: Bernardi Mario Luca , Casciani Angelo , Cimitile Marta , Marrella Andrea
Published: March 2024

Traditionally, process-aware Decision Support Systems (DSSs) have been enhanced with AI functionalities to facilitate quick and informed decision-making. In this context, AI-Augmented Business Process Management Systems have emerged as innovative human-centric information systems, blending flexibility, autonomy, and conversational capability. Large Language Models (LLMs) have significantly boosted such systems, showcasing remarkable natural language processing capabilities across various tasks. Despite the potential of LLMs to support human decisions in business contexts, empirical validations of their effectiveness for process-aware Decision Support are scarce in the literature.In this paper, we propose the Business Process Large Language Model (BPLLM) framework, a novel approach for enacting actionable conversations with human workers. BPLLM couples Retrieval-Augmented Generation with fine-tuning, to enrich process-specific knowledge.Additionally, a process-aware chunking approach is incorporated to enhance the BPLLM pipeline. The approach has been evaluated in various experimental scenarios to assess its ability to generate accurate and contextually relevant answers to users' questions. The empirical study shows the promising performance of the framework in identifying the presence of particular activities and sequence flows within the considered process model, offering insights into its potential for enhancing process-aware DSSs.
Cytometry in the short-wave infrared
Authors: Lin Ching-Wei , Liu Te-I , Wang Jhih-Shan , Nguyen Ai-Phuong , Raabe Marco , Quiroz Carlos , Lin Chih-Hsin
Published: March 2024

Cytometry plays a crucial role in characterizing cell properties, but its restricted optical window (400-850 nm) limits the number of stained fluorophores that can be detected simultaneously and hampers the study and utilization of short-wave infrared (SWIR; 900-1,700 nm) fluorophores in cells. Here we introduce two SWIR-based methods to address these limitations: SWIR flow cytometry and SWIR image cytometry. We develop a quantification protocol for deducing cellular fluorophore mass. Both systems achieve a limit of detection of ~0.1 fg cell−1 within a 30-min experimental timeframe, using individualized, high-purity (6,5) single-wall carbon nanotubes as a model fluorophore and macrophage-like RAW264.7 as a model cell line. This high-sensitivity feature reveals that low-dose (6,5) serves as an antioxidant, and cell morphology and oxidative stress dose-dependently correlate with (6,5) uptake. Our SWIR cytometry holds immediate applicability for existing SWIR fluorophores and offers a solution to the issue of spectral overlapping in conventional cytometry.
Effect of exogenous lipids contamination on blood gas analysis
Authors: Pighi Laura , Salvagno Gian Luca , Tiziani Elena , Castellini Maria Elena , Ferraro Roberta , Henry Brandon M. , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

Background. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of contamination of venous blood with a lipid-containing solution on parameters measured by a modern blood gas analyzer.
Methods. We collected venous blood from 17 healthcare workers (46±11 years; 53% women) into three blood gas syringes containing 0%, 5% and 10% lipid-containing solution. Blood gas analysis was performed within 15 min from sample collection on GEM Premier 5000, while triglycerides and serum indices were assays on Roche COBAS C702.
Results. Triglycerides concentration increased from 1.0±0.3 mmol/L in the uncontaminated blood gas syringe, to 39.4±7.8 and 65.3±14.4 mmol/L (both p<0.001) in syringes with 5% and 10% final lipid contamination. The lipemic and icteric indices increased accordingly. Statistically significant variation was noted for all analytes except hematocrit and COHb in the syringe with 5% lipids, while only COHb did not vary in the syringe with 10% lipids. Significant increases were observed from 5% lipid contamination for pO2, SO2 and lactate, while the values of pH, pCO2, sodium, potassium, chloride, ionized calcium, glucose, hematocrit (10% contamination), hemoglobin and MetHB decreased. All these changes except lactate and CoHb exceeded their relative performance specifications.
Conclusions. Artifactual hyperlipidemia caused by contamination with exogenous lipids can have a clinically significant impact on blood gas analysis. Manufacturers of blood gas analyzers must be persuaded to develop new instruments equipped with serum indices.
Enhancement of ubiquitination-dependent mitophagy by unconventionally-acting PROTACs
Authors: Wen Long-ping
Published: March 2024

Enhancing mitophagy, a naturally-occurring cellular process for elimination of damaged mitochondria, holds great promise for the intervention of many human diseases. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional molecules that induce ubiquitination and subsequent proteasome-mediated degradation of a target protein through simultaneously binding to the target protein and an E3 ubiquitin ligase. However, the narrow cavity of the proteasome prevents the degradation of mitochondria. Here we show that the E3 ubiquitin ligase MAP3K1, when recruited to the outer mitochondria membrane (OMM) protein TSPO or VDAC by our PROTAC-designed molecules (termed “mitophagy-enhancing chimeras”, or MECs), induced extensive K63 ubiquitination of TSPO and other OMM proteins, reminiscent of the PINK1-activated PARKIN, without triggering proteasome-mediated degradation of TSPO. Aided by NBR1 and Nur77, this increased K63 ubiquitination of OMM proteins triggered mitophagy exclusively for damaged mitochondria, leading to improved mitochondria function and diminished cellular ROS. With the capability to enhance mitophagy at low nanomolar concentrations, MECs effectively inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation, abrogated acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury and mitigated high-fat diet-induced obesity in mice. Our work provided a proof-of-concept for developing unconventionally-acting PROTACs to achieve degradation of damaged mitochondria and possibly other organelles.
cmahalanobis: A R Package for Computing Mahalanobis Distance Between Factors
Authors: Gioia Flavio
Published: March 2024

Mahalanobis distance is a measure of dissimilarity between two vectors of multi- variate random variables, based on the covariance matrix. This distance is useful for statistical matching or statistical fusion of data, as well as for detecting differ- ences between factors. In this paper, we present the cmahalanobis package, a R package that provides a function to compute the Mahalanobis distance between every pair of species in a list of data frames. Each data frame contains the obser- vations of a species with some variables. The cmahalanobis package is based on the formula of the Mahalanobis distance and exploits the stats functions of R for matrix computation. The cmahalanobis package offers several options for han- dling missing data, standardizing variables, and selecting relevant variables. The cmahalanobis package differs from other similar packages for its simplicity, flexi- bility, and speed. We show some applications of the cmahalanobis package with real data sets embedded in R, such as mtcars and iris, and with the BFI dataset RDocumentation and William Revelle (2024), which contains 2800 observations and 25 personality items representing five factors that are: Agreeableness, Consci- entiousness, Extraversion, Neuroticism, and Opennness. We illustrate the results with graphs and tables. We conclude that the cmahalanobis package is an effec- tive and practical tool for computing the Mahalanobis distance, and we suggest some possible extensions or improvements for the future of the package
Elucidating the role of the XCL1/XCR1 chemokine axis in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis : implications for novel therapeutic interventions
Authors:   , Tondello Camilla
Published: March 2024

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is precipitated by the autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing beta-cells in the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. Chemokines have been identified as major conductors of the islet infiltration by autoaggressive leukocytes, including antigen-presenting cells and islet autoantigen-specific T cells. We have previously generated a roadmap of the gene expression in the islet microenvironment during T1D in a mouse model and found that most of the chemokine axes are chronically upregulated during T1D. We focused our attention on CXCL10/CXCR3, CCL5/CCR5, CXCL16/CCR6, CX3CL1/CX3CR1, and XCL1/XCR1. First, we found that the absence of CCR6 and of CX3CR1 diminished T1D incidence in a mouse model for T1D. Further, the XCL1/XCR1 chemokine axis is of particular interest, since XCR1 is exclusively expressed on convention dendritic cells type 1 (cDC1) that excel by their high capacity for T cell activation. Here we demonstrate that cDC1 expressing XCR1 are present in and around the islets of patients with T1D and of islet-autoantibody positive individuals. Further, in an inducible mouse model for T1D, we show that XCL1 plays an important role in the attraction of highly potent dendritic cells expressing XCR1 to the islets. XCL1-deficient mice display a diminished infiltration of XCR1+ cDC1 and subsequently also a reduced magnitude and activity of islet autoantigen-specific T cells. XCR1-deficient mice display a reduced magnitude and activity of islet autoantigen-specific T cells. A 3D-visualization of the entire pancreas reveals that both XCL1-deficient mice and XCR1-deficient mice indeed maintain most of their functional islets after induction of the disease. Thus, the absence of XCL1 results in a profound decrease in T1D incidence. The XCR1-deficiency also reduces T1D incidence, even if in a less drastic way compared to XCL1-deficiency. An interference with the XCL1/XCR1 chemokine axis might constitute a novel target for the therapy for T1D.
Hydrodynamic shape optimization of an autonomous and remotely-operated vehicle via a multi-surrogate model
Authors:   State Key Laboratory of Structural Analysis for Industrial Equipment, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China, Liu Jian , Yue Qianjin , Wu Shanghua ,   School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China, Yue Xiufeng ,   School of Economics and Management, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
Published: March 2024

The design requirements for the hydrodynamic performance of underwater vehicles vary significantly depending on the application. Optimization without an initial model results in challenges such as large design domains, nonlinear complexity, and high data requirements. To optimize the hydrodynamic performance during the design process, in this paper, a multi-surrogate model was employed to progressively design the shape of an autonomous and remotely-operated vehicle. Based on the data characteristics of different stages, this approach strikes a balance among data quantity, prediction accuracy, and multi-objective requirements. An artificial neural network prediction surrogate model was constructed based on the principle of the minimum prediction factor using the optimal Latin hypercube sampling method. During the optimization of the design domain, the optimum objective was to minimize the dimensionless force (G(x)). During the multi-objective optimization stage, a regression kriging surrogate model was constructed based on a support vector product. The optimization objectives were to maximize volume and minimize dimensionless forces. This enabled the overall design process to attain optimal Pareto solutions within the design domain while simultaneously ensuring high prediction accuracy and minimum data requirements. The results obtained are consistent with the simulation comparison, thus verifying the reliability of the entire optimization process.
Exploring kinetically induced bound states in triangular lattices with ultracold atoms: Spectroscopic approach
Authors: Morera Navarro Ivan , Weitenberg Christof , Sengstock Klaus , Demler Eugene
Published: March 2024

Quantum simulations with ultracold fermions in triangular optical lattices have recently emerged as a new platform for studying magnetism in frustrated systems. Experimental realizations of the Fermi Hubbard model revealed striking contrast between magnetism in bipartite and triangular lattices. In bipartite lattices magnetism is strongest at half filling, and doped charge carriers tend to suppress magnetic correlations. In triangular-type lattices for large U/t and t>0, antiferromagnetism (ferromagnetism) gets enhanced by doping away from n=1 with holes (doublons) because kinetic energy of dopants can be lowered through developing magnetic correlations, corresponding to formation of magnetic polarons. Snapshots of many-body states obtained with quantum gas microscopes demonstrated existence of magnetic polarons by revealing the magnetic correlations around dopants at temperatures that considerably exceed superexchange energy scale. In this paper we discuss theoretically that additional insight into properties of magnetic polarons in triangular lattices can be achieved using spectroscopic experiments with ultracold atoms. We consider starting from a spin polarized state with small hole doping and applying a two-photon Raman photoexcitation, which transfers atoms into a different spin state. We show that such magnon injection spectra exhibit a separate peak corresponding to formation of a bound state between a hole and a magnon. This polaron peak is separated from the simple magnon spectrum by energy proportional to single particle tunneling and can be easily resolved with currently available experimental techniques. For some momentum transfer there is an additional peak corresponding to photoexciting a bound state between two holes and a magnon. We point out that in two component Bose mixtures in triangular lattices one can also create dynamical magnetic polarons, with one hole and one magnon forming a repulsive bound state.
An Investigation on Consumer Behavior Concerning “Trendy Drink” in Islamic View
Authors: Syafira Shofwah , Wijayanti Farah Nur Syafi`ah , Wildatika Nerning Galidha
Published: March 2024

This study was aimed to determine drivers of consumer trust, satisfaction and recommendation to others regarding “Trendy Drink” Mixue Ice Cream Tea.  Based on literature review, most of consumer behavior studies were investigated by a single method. Furthermore, research on consumer perspectives concerning food safety in Islamic were still limited. Hence, we extended this study using mixed method. Sampling used is purposive with characteristics Moslem, 17 years old or over and has purchased Mixue Ice Cream and tea in the outlet. Firslty, open-ended interviews were carried out to gather data amplified by second phase of data collection was online survey and the data of 234 participants were analyzed utilizing SEM-PLS. Study revealed that consumers perceived food as safe attributed to its appearance, taste, smell, certification and quality. Additionally, study uncobered that food safety and information credibility were prominent drivers of consumer behavior. This paper explored an underexposed concern on product safety in Islamic view. It contributes to the marketing field empirically, theoretically and practically by extending the implementation of food safety, source of credibility theory, and Maslow`s hierarchy of need theory in the Islamic marketing and food beverages context. Additionally, applying a mixed-method for data analysis broadened the research results` generalisability.
VIRTUAL RECONSTRUCTION, A MUSEOLOGICAL PRACTICE FOR 19TH CENTURY RAILWAY ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
Authors:   University of Guanajuato (Universidad de Guanajuato – UGTO), Crespo José Armando Pérez
Published: March 2024

In the context of theoretical and exhibition practices of contemporary museums and in the immersive field of communication and historical heritage, this study provides a virtual reconstruction of the architectural heritage of a defunct 19th century American railway station derived from the historical infrastructure of independent Mexico. Traditional construction systems, as well as their historical roots and architectural morphology, are re-evaluated toward understanding and ratifying the three-dimensional modeling and the knowledge-generating potential of the architectural heritage, in computational tools and for a global audience, tapping into 21st century museological advances.
Review: Designing Green Spaces for Health: Using Plants to Reduce the Spread of Airborne Viruses
Authors:   Eurasian International College, Henan University, Henan, China, Youpeng Li
Published: March 2024

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a virus-borne infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. COVID-19 transmission risks are increased in crowded, poorly ventilated areas where infected people spend longer periods of time together in close contact. Outbreaks have been noted in situations where people congregate, particularly in overcrowded indoor settings, and talk, yell, breathe deeply, or sing, such as restaurants, choir practises, fitness classes, nightclubs, workplaces, and places of worship. The daily increase of COVID-19 cases and deaths has resulted in a worldwide lockdown, quarantine, and certain limitations. Scientists and researchers from all around the world are working to solve this challenge. How can a designer contribute in such a situation? It is a matter of thinking about how the effect of COVID-19 can be reduced through the use of minor indoor plants used in homes or workplaces. This book focuses on integrating plants into spatial design to decrease viral infectiousness in various working and living environments. It discusses techniques for indoor and outdoor green design using plants that are expected to be useful for influenza virus tolerance and infectiousness decrease.
The Portrayal of Female Figure on Greek Interwar Cigarette Packs as a Form of emancipation, Allure and Sexism
Authors:   Art and Design Historian, Faculty of Interior Architecture, School of Applied Arts and Culture, University of West Attica/Hellenic Open University., Tsoumas Johannis , Diamantopoulou Evangelia ,   Assistant Professor, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, School of Economics and Political Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Published: March 2024

The Greek interwar period is indicative of the formation of the social class and moral profile of women in the rest of the twentieth century. It is the period during which small, but significant changes were observed in the personal and social status quo of the hitherto oppressed women in the province, but also in the large urban centers of the country. At the same time, many innovative changes took place in several mass production fields, rendering thus the interwar period an important experimental, but also pioneering era. One of these changes was the decision of the local tobacco companies to expand the sale of their products to the female consumer audience, following the promotion and sales model of western markets. The depiction of the female figure on Greek cigarette packs constituted a bold business initiative, as it was believed that in this way women would initially become familiar with and later would fervently adopt a product that was traditionally addressed to a male market. This research focuses on the dual interpretation of the use of sensual female figures in cigarette packets of the Greek interwar period both through the concepts of emancipation and liberation on the part of female consumers and through the concepts of sexism and gender inequality on the part of male consumers.
Posthuman Body and Visuality: Local and Virtual Interface in New Media Art
Authors:   Department of Art History and Art Appreciation, Faculty of Fine Arts, Jamia  Millis Islamia, Kulkarni Mrinal
Published: March 2024

The term “posthuman” is used to characterise ways of existence brought about by hypothetical improvements to human nature brought about by technical and applied scientific advancements. It also denotes the decentering of human uniqueness and the triumph of humanistic ideas. The posthuman condition is an opportunity to restore the balance between humans and nonhumans, advance horizontal ontologies, expand the boundaries of ethics, and extend rational mastery, surmounting humanity’s biological limitations. Hypervisuality of the images situates the body as an instrument and a site for the local, global and virtual interplays of online global audiences and offline located/situated producers and consumers. This paper will study the concept of the posthuman body and visuality in the context of current art practices. It will analyse the shift new media brings in the concept of body from painting, and sculpture to the new media artworks.