bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Identification of Vitellogenin Gene Family and Comparative Analysis of Their Involvement in Ovarian Maturation in Exopalaemon carinicauda
Authors: Wang Jiajia , Tang Shuai , Ge Qianqian , Wang Qiong , He Yuying , Ren Xianyun , Li Jian , Li Jitao
Published: January 2024

Vitellogenin (Vtg) is a precursor of yolk proteins in egg-laying vertebrates and invertebrates and plays an important role in vitellogenesis and embryonic development. However, the Vtg family remains poorly characterized in Exopalaemon carinicauda, a major commercial mariculture species found along the coasts of the Yellow and Bohai Seas. In this study, 10 Vtg genes from the genomes of E. carinicauda were identified and characterized. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the Vtg genes in crustaceans could be classified into four groups: Astacidea, Brachyra, Penaeidae, and Palaemonidae. EcVtg genes were unevenly distributed on the chromosomes of E. carinicauda, and a molecular evolutionary analysis showed that the EcVtg genes were primarily constrained by purifying selection during evolution. All putative EcVtg proteins were characterized by the presence of three conserved functional domains: a lipoprotein N-terminal domain (LPD_N), a domain of unknown function (DUF1943), and a von Willebrand factor type D domain (vWD). All EcVtg genes exhibited higher expression in the female hepatopancreas than in other tissues, and EcVtg gene expression during ovarian development suggested that the hepatopancreas is the main synthesis site in E. carinicauda. EcVtg1a, EcVtg2, and EcVtg3 play major roles in exogenous vitellogenesis, and EcVtg3 also plays a major role in endogenous vitellogenesis. Bilateral ablation of the eyestalk significantly upregulates EcVtg mRNA expression in the female hepatopancreas, indicating that the X-organ/sinus gland complex plays an important role in ovarian development, mostly by inducing Vtg synthesis. These results could improve our understanding of the function of multiple Vtg genes in crustaceans and aid future studies on the function of EcVtg genes during ovarian development in E. carinicauda.
Graphislactone A, a Fungal Antioxidant Metabolite, Reduces Lipogenesis and Protects against Diet-Induced Hepatic Steatosis in Mice
Authors: Lee Yeonmi , Jang Hye-Rim , Lee Dongjin , Lee Jongjun , Jung Hae-Rim , Cho Sung-Yup , Lee Hui-Young
Published: January 2024

Graphislactone A (GPA), a secondary metabolite derived from a mycobiont found in the lichens of the genus Graphis, exhibits antioxidant properties. However, the potential biological functions and therapeutic applications of GPA at the cellular and animal levels have not yet been investigated. In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of GPA in mitigating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its underlying mechanisms through a series of experiments using various cell lines and animal models. GPA demonstrated antioxidant capacity on a par with that of vitamin C in cultured hepatocytes and reduced the inflammatory response induced by lipopolysaccharide in primary macrophages. However, in animal studies using an NAFLD mouse model, GPA had a milder impact on liver inflammation while markedly attenuating hepatic steatosis. This effect was confirmed in an animal model of early fatty liver disease without inflammation. Mechanistically, GPA inhibited lipogenesis rather than fat oxidation in cultured hepatocytes. Similarly, RNA sequencing data revealed intriguing associations between GPA and the adipogenic pathways during adipocyte differentiation. GPA effectively reduced lipid accumulation and suppressed lipogenic gene expression in AML12 hepatocytes and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In summary, our study demonstrates the potential application of GPA to protect against hepatic steatosis in vivo and suggests a novel role for GPA as an underlying mechanism in lipogenesis, paving the way for future exploration of its therapeutic potential.
Glutathione Reductase Expression and Its Prognostic Significance in Colon Cancer
Authors: Brzozowa-Zasada Marlena , Piecuch Adam , Bajdak-Rusinek Karolina , Michalski Marek , Klymenko Olesya , Matysiak Natalia , Janelt Kamil , Czuba Zenon
Published: January 2024

Maintaining a balanced redox state within cells is crucial for the sustenance of life. The process involves continuous cytosolic disulfide reduction reactions to restore oxidized proteins to their reduced thiol forms. There are two main cellular antioxidant pathways—the thioredoxin (Trx) and glutathione (GSH)/glutaredoxin (Grx) systems. In the GSH/Grx system, glutathione reductase (GR; GSR) catalyses the reduction of GSH disulfide (GSSG) to its sulfhydryl form (GSH), which can then further reduce oxidized Grxs. GR is an essential enzyme that helps in maintaining the supply of reduced glutathione-GSH, which is a significant reducing thiol found in most cells and known for its antioxidant properties. Therefore, it can have a significant impact on cancer development. To investigate this further, we performed an immunohistochemical analysis of GR protein expression in colon adenocarcinoma samples collected from patients with primary colon adenocarcinoma (stage I and II) and patients with metastasis to regional lymph nodes (stage III). The results of our study revealed a significant relationship between the immunohistochemical expression of GR and tumour histological grade, depth of invasion, regional lymph node involvement, staging, and PCNA immunohistochemical expression. It was found that 95% of patients with stage I had low levels of GR expression, whereas 89% of patients with stage III had high levels of immunohistochemical expression. A high level of expression was also detected in the patients with stage II of the disease, where almost 63% were characterized by a high expression of GR. The Western blot method revealed that the highest level of expression was found in the LS 174T cell line, which corresponds to stage II. The results of our study indicate that the immunohistochemical expression of GR may act as an independent prognostic factor associated with colon adenocarcinoma patients’ prognosis.
Assessment of Genetic Stability in Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes by Using Droplet Digital PCR
Authors: Park Ji Won , Bae Su Ji , Yun Jun Ho , Kim Sunhee , Park Misun
Published: January 2024

Unintended genetic modifications that occur during the differentiation and proliferation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can lead to tumorigenicity. This is a crucial concern in the development of stem cell-based therapies to ensure the safety and efficacy of the final product. Moreover, conventional genetic stability testing methods are limited by low sensitivity, which is an issue that remains unsolved. In this study, we assessed the genetic stability of hiPSCs and hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes using various testing methods, including karyotyping, CytoScanHD chip analysis, whole-exome sequencing, and targeted sequencing. Two specific genetic mutations in KMT2C and BCOR were selected from the 17 gene variants identified by whole-exome and targeted sequencing methods, which were validated using droplet digital PCR. The applicability of this approach to stem cell-based therapeutic products was further demonstrated with associated validation according to the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines, including specificity, precision, robustness, and limit of detection. Our droplet digital PCR results showed high sensitivity and accuracy for quantitatively detecting gene mutations, whereas conventional qPCR could not avoid false positives. In conclusion, droplet digital PCR is a highly sensitive and precise method for assessing the expression of mutations with tumorigenic potential for the development of stem cell-based therapeutics.
NAD+ Precursors Reverse Experimental Diabetic Neuropathy in Mice
Authors: Chandrasekaran Krish , Najimi Neda , Sagi Avinash R. , Yarlagadda Sushuma , Salimian Mohammad , Arvas Muhammed Ikbal , Hedayat Ahmad F. , Kevas Yanni , Kadakia Anand , Kristian Tibor , Russell James W.
Published: January 2024

Abnormal NAD+ signaling has been implicated in axonal degeneration in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). We hypothesized that supplementing NAD+ precursors could alleviate DPN symptoms through increasing the NAD+ levels and activating the sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) protein. To test this, we exposed cultured Dorsal Root Ganglion neurons (DRGs) to Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) or Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN), which increased the levels of NAD+, the SIRT1 protein, and the deacetylation activity that is associated with increased neurite growth. A SIRT1 inhibitor blocked the neurite growth induced via NR or NMN. We then induced neuropathy in C57BL6 mice with streptozotocin (STZ) or a high fat diet (HFD) and administered NR or NMN for two months. Both the STZ and HFD mice developed neuropathy, which was reversed through the NR or NMN administration: sensory function improved, nerve conduction velocities normalized, and intraepidermal nerve fibers were restored. The NAD+ levels and SIRT1 activity were reduced in the DRGs from diabetic mice but were preserved with the NR or NMN treatment. We also tested the effect of NR or NMN administration in mice that overexpress the SIRT1 protein in neurons (nSIRT1 OE) and found no additional benefit from the addition of the drug. These findings suggest that supplementing with NAD+ precursors or activating SIRT1 may be a promising treatment for DPN.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Analysis of the Oxacephem Antibiotic Flomoxef against Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacterales from Dogs
Authors: Kusumoto Mizuki , Jitsuiki Makoto , Motegi Tomoki , Harada Kazuki
Published: January 2024

Flomoxef (FMX) may be a potential alternative to carbapenems for dogs infected with Enterobacterales-producing extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL-E). However, the appropriate dosage of FMX in dogs with ESBL-E infections has yet to be established. This study was carried out to establish appropriate treatment regimens for FMX against ESBL-E infections in dogs using a pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics (PK–PD) approach. Five dogs were intravenously administered at a bolus dose of FMX (40 mg/kg body weight). Serum concentrations of FMX were calculated with high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and then applied to determine PK indices based on a non-compartmental model. The cumulative fraction of response (CFR) was estimated based on the dissemination of minimum inhibitory concentrations among wild-type ESBL-E from companion animals. From the results, the dosage regimens of 40 mg/kg every 6 and 8 h were estimated to attain a CFR of >90% for wild-type isolates of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis for dogs. By contrast, all regimens had a CFR of <80% for ESBL-producing Enterobacter cloacae. Our results indicated that dosage regimens of 40 mg/kg FMX every 6 and 8 h can be a non-carbapenem treatment for canine infections of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis, but not for those of ESBL-producing Enterobacter cloacae.
SkQ3 Exhibits the Most Pronounced Antioxidant Effect on Isolated Rat Liver Mitochondria and Yeast Cells
Authors: Rogov Anton G. , Goleva Tatyana N. , Aliverdieva Dinara A. , Zvyagilskaya Renata A.
Published: January 2024

Oxidative stress is involved in a wide range of age-related diseases. A critical role has been proposed for mitochondrial oxidative stress in initiating or promoting these pathologies and the potential for mitochondria-targeted antioxidants to fight them, making their search and testing a very urgent task. In this study, the mitochondria-targeted antioxidants SkQ1, SkQ3 and MitoQ were examined as they affected isolated rat liver mitochondria and yeast cells, comparing SkQ3 with clinically tested SkQ1 and MitoQ. At low concentrations, all three substances stimulated the oxidation of respiratory substrates in state 4 respiration (no ADP addition); at higher concentrations, they inhibited the ADP-triggered state 3 respiration and the uncoupled state, depolarized the inner mitochondrial membrane, contributed to the opening of the mPTP (mitochondrial permeability transition pore), did not specifically affect ATP synthase, and had a pronounced antioxidant effect. SkQ3 was the most active antioxidant, not possessing, unlike SkQ1 or MitoQ, prooxidant activity with increasing concentrations. In yeast cells, all three substances reduced prooxidant-induced intracellular oxidative stress and cell death and prevented and reversed mitochondrial fragmentation, with SkQ3 being the most efficient. These data allow us to consider SkQ3 as a promising potential therapeutic agent to mitigate pathologies associated with oxidative stress.
Innovative Energy Approach for Design and Sizing of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
Authors: Martini Daniele , Aimar Martino , Borghetti Fabio , Longo Michela , Foiadelli Federica
Published: January 2024

In Italy, the availability of service areas (SAs) equipped with charging stations (CSs) for electric vehicles (EVs) on highways is limited in comparison to the total number of service areas. The scope of this work is to create a prototype and show a different approach to assessing the number of inlets required on highways. The proposed method estimates the energy requirements for the future electric fleet on highways. It is based on an energy conversion that starts with the fuel sold in the highway network and ends with the number of charging inlets. A proposed benchmark method estimates energy requirements for the electric fleet using consolidated values and statistics about refueling attitudes, with factors for range correction and winter conditions. The results depend on assumptions about future car distribution, with varying numbers of required inlets. The analysis revealed that vehicle traffic is a critical factor in determining the number of required charging inlets, with significant variance between different SAs. This study highlights the necessity of incorporating factors like weather, car charging power, and the future EV range into these estimations. The findings are useful for planning EV charging infrastructure, especially along major traffic routes and in urban areas with high-range vehicles relying on High-Power DC (HPDC) charging. The model’s applicability to urban scenarios can be improved by considering the proportion of energy recharged at the destination. A key limitation is the lack of detailed origin–destination (OD) highway data, leading to some uncertainty in the calculated range ratio coefficient and underscoring the need for future research to refine this model.
Influence of Porosity on Fatigue Behaviour of 18Ni300 Steel SLM CT Specimens at Various Angles
Authors: Cerezo Pablo M. , Aguilera Jose A. , Garcia-Gonzalez Antonio , Lopez-Crespo Pablo
Published: January 2024

In order to improve understanding of the fatigue behaviour in additive manufactured samples, this research delves into the challenging interplay between building parameters, particularly fabrication angles, and the presence of pores. The primary objective is to explore the characterisation of these pores and unravel their relationship with the fatigue properties of the material under investigation. Through a systematic analysis of porosity distribution in various fabrication orientations, supplemented by a detailed examination of the elemental dispersion around specific porous structures using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, a consistent behavioural pattern emerges across the samples. In assessing fatigue behaviour, an examination of the variables reveals that only area and aspect ratio significantly influence the behaviour of the samples. Such studies can contribute substantially to academic research in the field of material science and engineering.
Atypical Complications during the Course of COVID-19: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Mallhi Tauqeer Hussain , Safdar Aqsa , Butt Muhammad Hammad , Salman Muhammad , Nosheen Sumbal , Mustafa Zia Ul , Khan Faiz Ullah , Khan Yusra Habib
Published: January 2024

COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory disease, but numerous studies have indicated the involvement of various organ systems during the course of illness. We conducted a comprehensive review of atypical complications of COVID-19 with their incidence range (IR) and their impact on hospitalization and mortality rates. We identified 97 studies, including 55 research articles and 42 case studies. We reviewed four major body organ systems for various types of atypical complications: (i) Gastro-intestinal (GI) and hepatobiliary system, e.g., bowel ischemia/infarction (IR: 1.49–83.87%), GI bleeding/hemorrhage (IR: 0.47–10.6%), hepatic ischemia (IR: 1.0–7.4%); (ii) Neurological system, e.g., acute ischemic stroke/cerebral venous sinus thrombosis/cerebral hemorrhage (IR: 0.5–90.9%), anosmia (IR: 4.9–79.6%), dysgeusia (IR: 2.8–83.38%), encephalopathy/encephalitis with or without fever and hypoxia (IR: 0.19–35.2%); (iii) Renal system, e.g., acute kidney injury (AKI)/acute renal failure (IR: 0.5–68.8%); (iv) Cardiovascular system, e.g., acute cardiac injury/non-coronary myocardial injury (IR: 7.2–55.56%), arrhythmia/ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation (IR: 5.9–16.7%), and coagulopathy/venous thromboembolism (IR: 19–34.4%). This review encourages and informs healthcare practitioners to keenly monitor COVID-19 survivors for these atypical complications in all major organ systems and not only treat the respiratory symptoms of patients. Post-COVID effects should be monitored, and follow-up of patients should be performed on a regular basis to check for long-term complications.
An Ultra-Energy-Efficient Reversible Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata 8:1 Multiplexer Circuit
Authors: Alharbi Mohammed , Edwards Gerard , Stocker Richard
Published: January 2024

Energy efficiency considerations in terms of reduced power dissipation are a significant issue in the design of digital circuits for very large-scale integration (VLSI) systems. Quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA) is an emerging ultralow power dissipation approach, distinct from traditional, complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology, for building digital computing circuits. Developing fully reversible QCA circuits has the potential to significantly reduce energy dissipation. Multiplexers are fundamental elements in the construction of useful digital circuits. In this paper, a novel, multilayer, fully reversible QCA 8:1 multiplexer circuit with ultralow energy dissipation is introduced. The power dissipation of the proposed multiplexer is simulated using the QCADesigner-E version 2.2 tool, describing the microscopic physical mechanisms underlying the QCA operation. The results show that the proposed reversible QCA 8:1 multiplexer consumes 89% less energy than the most energy-efficient 8:1 multiplexer circuit previously presented in the literature.
Dry and Hydrothermal Co-Carbonization of Mixed Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) for Solid Fuel Production
Authors: Longo Andrei , Alves Octávio , Sen Ali Umut , Nobre Catarina , Brito Paulo , Gonçalves Margarida
Published: January 2024

The present study aims to test several conditions of the thermochemical pretreatment of torrefaction and carbonization to improve the physical and combustible properties of the Portuguese RDF. Therefore, two different types of RDF were submitted alone or mixed in 25%, 50%, and 75% proportions to dry carbonization processes in a range of temperatures between 250 to 350 °C and residence time between 15 and 60 min. Hydrothermal carbonization was also carried out with RDF samples and their 50% mixture at temperatures of 250 and 300 °C for 30 min. The properties of the 51 chars and hydrochars produced were analyzed. Mass yield, apparent density, proximate and elemental analysis, ash mineral composition, and higher heating value (HHV), among others, were determined to evaluate the combustion behavior improvement of the chars. The results show that after carbonization, the homogeneity and apparent density of the chars were increased compared to the raw RDF wastes. The chars and hydrochars produced present higher HHV and lower moisture and chlorine content. In the case of chars, a washing step seems to be essential to reduce the chlorine content to allow them to be used as an alternative fuel. In conclusion, both dry and wet carbonization demonstrated to be important pretreatments of the RDF to produce chars with improved physical and combustion properties.
LeGO-LOAM-FN: An Improved Simultaneous Localization and Mapping Method Fusing LeGO-LOAM, Faster_GICP and NDT in Complex Orchard Environments
Authors: Zhang Jiamin , Chen Sen , Xue Qiyuan , Yang Jie , Ren Guihong , Zhang Wuping , Li Fuzhong
Published: January 2024

To solve the problem of cumulative errors when robots build maps in complex orchard environments due to their large scene size, similar features, and unstable motion, this study proposes a loopback registration algorithm based on the fusion of Faster Generalized Iterative Closest Point (Faster_GICP) and Normal Distributions Transform (NDT). First, the algorithm creates a K-Dimensional tree (KD-Tree) structure to eliminate the dynamic obstacle point clouds. Then, the method uses a two-step point filter to reduce the number of feature points of the current frame used for matching and the number of data used for optimization. It also calculates the matching degree of normal distribution probability by meshing the point cloud, and optimizes the precision registration using the Hessian matrix method. In the complex orchard environment with multiple loopback events, the root mean square error and standard deviation of the trajectory of the LeGO-LOAM-FN algorithm are 0.45 m and 0.26 m which are 67% and 73% higher than those of the loopback registration algorithm in the Lightweight and Ground-Optimized LiDAR Odometry and Mapping on Variable Terrain (LeGO-LOAM), respectively. The study proves that this method effectively reduces the influence of the cumulative error, and provides technical support for intelligent operation in the orchard environment.
Fourth-Order Quadratic Buck Converter Controller Design
Authors: Pop Gabriela-Madalina , Pop-Calimanu Ioana-Monica , Lascu Dan
Published: January 2024

This paper aims to outline the process of dimensioning a controller tailored for a fourth-order step-down converter. In order to conduct a thorough small-signal analysis, it is imperative to find the state–space model in matrices form. Given its fourth-order nature, the control-to-output transfer function also aligns with this order, although its degree is ultimately reduced to a second-order using the tfest function. It is remarkable that the design of the type III error amplifier assumes a central position in the overall controller design process. The theoretical analysis was then subjected to rigorous validation via simulation, with particular attention paid to the step response in both input voltage and output resistance. This study developed from the desire to validate the efficacy of reducing the control-to-output transfer function degree using the tfest function, aiming to highlight a fourth-order converter to which controller design theory can be applied, related to that for a second-order converter.
Lateral Evasive Maneuver with Shared Control Algorithm: A Simulator Study
Authors: Sarabia Joseba , Marcano Mauricio , Díaz Sergio , Zubizarreta Asier , Pérez Joshué
Published: January 2024

Shared control algorithms have emerged as a promising approach for enabling real-time driver automated system cooperation in automated vehicles. These algorithms allow human drivers to actively participate in the driving process while receiving continuous assistance from the automated system in specific scenarios. However, despite the theoretical benefits being analyzed in various works, further demonstrations of the effectiveness and user acceptance of these approaches in real-world scenarios are required due to the involvement of the human driver in the control loop. Given this perspective, this paper presents and analyzes the results of a simulator-based study conducted to evaluate a shared control algorithm for a critical lateral maneuver. The maneuver involves the automated system helping to avoid an oncoming motorcycle that enters the vehicle’s lane. The study’s goal is to assess the algorithm’s performance, safety, and user acceptance within this specific scenario. For this purpose, objective measures, such as collision avoidance and lane departure prevention, as well as subjective measures related to the driver’s sense of safety and comfort are studied. In addition, three levels of assistance (gentle, intermediate, and aggressive) are tested in two driver state conditions (focused and distracted). The findings have important implications for the development and execution of shared control algorithms, paving the way for their incorporation into actual vehicles.
A Generative Model to Embed Human Expressivity into Robot Motions
Authors: Osorio Pablo , Sagawa Ryusuke , Abe Naoko , Venture Gentiane
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a model for generating expressive robot motions based on human expressive movements. The proposed data-driven approach combines variational autoencoders and a generative adversarial network framework to extract the essential features of human expressive motion and generate expressive robot motion accordingly. The primary objective was to transfer the underlying expressive features from human to robot motion. The input to the model consists of the robot task defined by the robot’s linear velocities and angular velocities and the expressive data defined by the movement of a human body part, represented by the acceleration and angular velocity. The experimental results show that the model can effectively recognize and transfer expressive cues to the robot, producing new movements that incorporate the expressive qualities derived from the human input. Furthermore, the generated motions exhibited variability with different human inputs, highlighting the ability of the model to produce diverse outputs.
Delay and Energy Efficient Offloading Strategies for an IoT Integrated Water Distribution System in Smart Cities
Authors: Velayudhan Nibi Kulangara , S Aiswarya , Devidas Aryadevi Remanidevi , Ramesh Maneesha Vinodini
Published: January 2024

In the fast-moving world of information and communications technologies, one significant issue in metropolitan cities is water scarcity and the need for an intelligent water distribution system for sustainable water management. An IoT-based monitoring system can improve water distribution system management and mitigate challenges in the distribution network networks such as leakage, breakage, theft, overflow, dry running of pumps and so on. However, the increase in the number of communication and sensing devices within smart cities has evoked challenges to existing communication networks due to the increase in delay and energy consumption within the network. The work presents different strategies for efficient delay and energy offloading in IoT-integrated water distribution systems in smart cities. Different IoT-enabled communication network topology diagrams are proposed, considering the different water network design parameters, land cover patterns and wireless channels for communication. From these topologies and by considering all the relevant communication parameters, the optimum communication network architecture to continuously monitor a water distribution network in a metropolitan city in India is identified. As a case study, an IoT design and analysis model is studied for a secondary metropolitan city in India. The selected study area is in Kochi, India. Based on the site-specific model and land use and land cover pattern, delay and energy modeling of the IoT-based water distribution system is discussed. Algorithms for node categorisation and edge-to-fog allocation are discussed, and numerical analyses of delay and energy models are included. An approximation of the delay and energy of the network is calculated using these models. On the basis of these study results, and state transition diagrams, the optimum placement of fog nodes linked with edge nodes and a cloud server could be carried out. Also, by considering different scenarios, up to a 40% improvement in energy efficiency can be achieved by incorporating a greater number of states in the state transition diagram. These strategies could be utilized in implementing delay and energy-efficient IoT-enabled communication networks for site-specific applications.
Towards a Co-Creative Immersive Digital Storytelling Methodology to Explore Experiences of Homelessness in Loughborough
Authors: Turpin Holly , Cain Rebecca , Wilson Michael
Published: January 2024

Despite the potential use of digital storytelling with marginalised groups, there are few examples of its application in homelessness or examinations of co-creative relationships in this context. Along with digital storytelling, this research used immersive media (virtual reality and 360 degree video) to explore place-based social exclusion. In the feasibility study, with four doctoral researchers at Loughborough University as participants, immersive digital stories were co-created. The aim of this study was to understand how to create place-based immersive digital stories, through adapting existing digital storytelling methods and the co-creation of virtual reality, to inform best practices for future studies involving participants who have experienced homelessness. Participants created maps and empathy timelines, shared stories, recorded voiceovers and edited footage. The researcher facilitated this and recorded the 360-degree filmed footage. The final stories proved to explore place-based social exclusion. Co-creative relationships were found to be more significant between the researcher and individual participant than amongst the participants as a group. With immersive media, the researcher’s experience formed an active part of the finished pieces. Despite this, participants described their role as director, being ultimately in control. These findings will influence the methods that will be used in the future with those who have experienced homelessness in Loughborough. They also show how immersive media in digital storytelling can strengthen co-creation and acknowledge the researcher in the story.
Two-Dimensional Ferroelectrics: A Review on Applications and Devices
Authors: De Luca Gabriella Maria , Rubano Andrea
Published: January 2024

Over the last few years, research activities have seen two-dimensional (2D) materials become protagonists in the field of nanotechnology. In particular, 2D materials characterized by ferroelectric properties are extremely interesting, as they are better suited for the development of miniaturized and high-performing devices. Here, we summarize the recent advances in this field, reviewing the realization of devices based on 2D ferroelectric materials, like FeFET, FTJ, and optoelectronics. The devices are realized with a wide range of material systems, from oxide materials at low dimensions to 2D materials exhibiting van der Waals interactions. We conclude by presenting how these materials could be useful in the field of devices based on magnons or surface acoustic waves.
Directional Differences in Thematic Maps of Soil Chemical Attributes with Geometric Anisotropy
Authors: Ribeiro Dyogo Lesniewski , Maltauro Tamara Cantú , Guedes Luciana Pagliosa Carvalho , Uribe-Opazo Miguel Angel , Dalposso Gustavo Henrique
Published: January 2024

In the study of the spatial variability of soil chemical attributes, the process is considered anisotropic when the spatial dependence structure differs in relation to the direction. Anisotropy is a characteristic that influences the accuracy of the thematic maps that represent the spatial variability of the phenomenon. Therefore, the linear anisotropic Gaussian spatial model is important for spatial data that present anisotropy, and incorporating this as an intrinsic characteristic of the process that describes the spatial dependence structure improves the accuracy of the spatial estimation of the values of a georeferenced variable in unsampled locations. This work aimed at quantifying the directional differences existing in the thematic map of georeferenced variables when incorporating or not incorporating anisotropy into the spatial dependence structure through directional spatial autocorrelation. For simulated data and soil chemical properties (carbon, calcium and potassium), the Moran directional index was calculated, considering the predicted values at unsampled locations, and taking into account estimated isotropic and anisotropic geostatistical models. The directional spatial autocorrelation was effective in evidencing the directional difference between thematic maps elaborated with estimated isotropic and anisotropic geostatistical models. This measure evidenced the existence of an elliptical format of the subregions presented by thematic maps in the direction of anisotropy that indicated a greater spatial continuity for greater distances between pairs of points.
ChatGPT and Bard in Plastic Surgery: Hype or Hope?
Authors: Labouchère Ania , Raffoul Wassim
Published: January 2024

Online artificial intelligence (AI) tools have recently gained in popularity. So-called “generative AI” chatbots unlock new opportunities to access vast realms of knowledge when being prompted by users. Here, we test the capabilities of two such AIs in order to determine the benefits for plastic surgery while also assessing the potential risks. Future developments are outlined. We used the online portals of OpenAI’s ChatGPT (version 3.5) and Google’s Bard to ask a set of questions and give specific commands. The results provided by the two tools were compared and analyzed by a committee. For professional plastic surgeons, we found that ChatGPT and Bard can be of help when it comes to conducting scientific reviews and helping with scientific writing but are of limited use due to the superficiality of their answers in specific domains. For medical students, in addition to the above, they provide useful educational material with respect to surgical methods and exam preparation. For patients, they can help when it comes to preparing for an intervention, weighing the risks and benefits, while providing guidance on optimal post-operative care. ChatGPT and Bard open widely accessible data to every internet user. While they might create a sense of “magic” due to their chatbot interfaces, they nonetheless can help to increase productivity. For professional surgeons, they produce superficial answers—for now—albeit providing help with scientific writing and literature reviews. For medical students, they are great tools to deepen their knowledge about specific topics such as surgical methods and exam preparation. For patients, they can help in translating complicated medical jargon into understandable lingo and provide support for pre-operative as well as post-operative care. Such AI tools should be used cautiously, as their answers are not always precise or accurate, and should always be used in combination with expert medical guidance.
Application of Pebbles for Geotechnical Seismic Isolation (GSI): Experimental Parametric Study
Authors: Banović Ivan , Radnić Jure , Grgić Nikola , Galić Marko
Published: January 2024

Low-income regions do not have the economic strength to use conventional isolators; therefore, low-cost alternatives are needed. The recent series of earthquakes in Turkey has once again demonstrated the destructive power of this natural disaster and highlighted the need for high-quality earthquake-resistant structures. In this context, a comprehensive experimental parametric study on the use of natural stone pebbles (ASL-1) and stone pebbles in combination with a geogrid layer (ASL-2) as suitable materials for a GSI system is conducted and the main results are presented. The seismic behavior of five different models was tested using four different acceleration diagrams with different peak ground accelerations (PGAs). Characteristic displacements, accelerations, and strains were measured. The results and conclusions presented are based on the integration and synthesis of several previously conducted studies.
Research on Trajectory Tracking Control of a Semi-Trailer Train Based on Differential Braking
Authors: Wang Wencong , Li Gang , Liu Shuwei
Published: January 2024

How to improve the driving performance of the vehicle while carrying out path tracking control has become a hot issue in current research. In this paper, an MPC (Model predictive control) path tracking control algorithm incorporating differential braking control is proposed. By establishing a vehicle dynamics model of a semi-trailer train, the model predictive control theory is adopted for path tracking. Then, the vehicle dynamics model, considering the additional yaw moment, is established to design the differential braking control strategy. Under low-speed working conditions, the PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) algorithm is used to solve the additional yaw moment with the yaw rate of the tractor traveling alone as the desired value. Under high-speed working conditions, the Fuzzy PID algorithm is used to solve the additional yaw moment with the control objective of reducing the articulation angle. Simulation models are built using MATLAB/Simulink, and TruckSim for numerical experimental validation. The numerical experimental results show that the differential braking control method proposed in this paper can improve the maneuverability of vehicles driving in low-speed conditions and the stability of vehicles driving in high-speed conditions without decreasing the precision of path tracking control.
Primary care transformation in Scotland: a qualitative evaluation of the views of patients
Authors: Donaghy Eddie , Sweeney Kieran , Henderson David , Angus Colin , Cullen Morag , Hemphill Mary , Wang Harry HX , Guthrie Bruce , Mercer Stewart W
Published: January 2024

Background

The new Scottish GP contract introduced in April 2018 aims to improve quality of care through expansion of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) to enable GPs to spend more time as expert medical generalists with patients with complex needs.

Aim

To explore patients’ views on the changes in general practice in Scotland since the inception of the new contract.

Design and setting

Qualitative study with 30 patients (10 living in urban deprived areas, 10 living in urban affluent/mixed urban areas, and 10 living in remote and rural areas).

Method

In-depth semi-structured interviews with thematic analysis.

Results

Patients were generally unaware of the new GP contract, attributing recent changes in general practice to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ongoing concerns included access to GP consultations (especially face-to-face ones), short consultation length with GPs, and damage to continuity of care and the GP–patient relationship. Most patients spoke positively about consultations with MDT staff but still wanted to see a known GP for health concerns that they considered potentially serious. These issues were especially concerning for patients with multiple complex problems, particularly those from deprived areas.

Conclusion

Following the introduction of the new Scottish GP contract, patients in this study’s sample were accepting of first contact care from the MDT but still wanted continuity of care and longer face-to-face consultations with GPs. These findings suggest that the expert generalist role of the GP is not being adequately supported by the new contract, especially in deprived areas, though further quantitative research is required to confirm this.
EFEKTIVITAS PENDIDIKAN PENCEGAHAN PERUNDUNGAN TERHADAP PENGETAHUAN & SIKAP SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Kusmiati Sri , Ariyanti Metia , Cahyaningsih Henny , Nursyamsiyah Nursyamsiyah
Published: January 2024

Bullying is one of the problems that can occur in elementary school children. Bullying is the intentional and repeated abuse of power. Interventions to prevent bullying behavior are needed to increase the knowledge and attitudes of elementary school students so that bullying can be prevented. This study aimed to see the effectiveness of bullying prevention interventions through small group discussions on the knowledge and attitudes of elementary school students. The research design was quasi-experimental with a pre-post test randomized two-group design approach. The sample used in this study was 72 students divided into control and intervention groups. The intervention is to provide bullying prevention education through small group discussions using modules. Data analysis in each group was carried out using the Wilcoxon test and analyzing data between groups using the Mann-Whitney test. The results showed an average difference after the intervention was carried out in the treatment and control groups, with a p-value of 0.000. Bullying prevention education through small group discussions using effective modules increases the knowledge and attitudes of elementary school students.
Nouvelles hypothèses sur l’origine du Liber glossarum
Authors: Grondeux Anne , Cinato Franck
Published: January 2024

Le Liber glossarum est généralement présenté comme un glossaire inspiré des Étymologies d’Isidore de Séville. On montre ici qu’il est encore plus étroitement lié à l’encyclopédie sévillane, au sens où il préserve plusieurs états des dossiers isidoriens : les dépouillements préparatoires, des rédactions intermédiaires, les aboutissements ultimes, toujours fidèles à la famille espagnole des Étymologies. Plus que d’un glossaire ou d’une encyclopédie alphabétique, il s’agit d’un produit hybride qui fusionne des florilèges et des glossaires.
Des rouleaux des morts inédits du haut Moyen Âge évoquant notamment l’archevêque Hugues de Reims
Authors: Pezé Warren
Published: January 2024

Cet article propose l’édition commentée de plusieurs rouleaux des morts et documents apparentés, datant des ix-xe siècles et venant s’ajouter à la courte liste des rouleaux du haut Moyen Âge. Deux rouleaux copiés dans le ms. BnF, latin 13351 sont originaires des abbayes de Saint-Denis et Prüm ; leur principal intérêt réside dans leur préambule, une partie du rouleau généralement éliminée lors de la copie des rouleaux dans les formulaires. Le rouleau de Saint-Denis est stylistiquement proche des rouleaux du Bassin parisien préservés dans le ms. BnF, latin 11379. Le rouleau de Prüm, en revanche, est plus original. D’une part, il apporte une nouvelle preuve des liens entretenus par Prüm en Francie occidentale à la fin de la période carolingienne. D’autre part, il s’agit d’un texte au style précieux et alambiqué, largement inspiré de l’oeuvre d’Aldhelme de Malmesbury, ce qui démontre la compétition littéraire que se livrent les abbayes à travers les rouleaux. Par ailleurs, le ms. BnF, latin 1597A, a préservé, comme formulaire, une série de titres (ou réponses aux rouleaux) originaires de Reims, dans la première moitié du xe siècle. Ces titres font référence au jeune archevêque Hugues, fils d’Herbert II de Vermandois, ainsi qu’à l’hôtelier Giso attesté dans d’autres sources, ce qui permet de les dater des années 920, confirmant le diagnostic paléographique de Bernhard Bischoff.
Los neologismos bubulcaritas (y derivados) y bovizare en la obra espiritual latina de Arnau de Vilanova
Authors: Mensa i Valls Jaume
Published: January 2024

rÉtude des néologismes bubulcaritas (et dérivés) et bovizare dans l’oeuvre spirituelle d’Arnau de Vilanova. Bubulcus, bubulcaritas, bubulcaris, bubulcariter apparaissent trente-huit fois et bovizare deux fois, dans des oeuvres écrites entre les années 1302 et 1305 (plus particulièrement dans l’inédit Antidotum contra venenum effusum per fratrem Martinum de Atheca). Ces termes sont utilisés au sens figuré et servent au médecin et au théologien catalan pour décrire, qualifier et principalement réprouver la
Cum tamen aduersos cogor habere deos (Rome, -50)… Manducando filius meus panem ego morieba de famen (Burgos, + 950) : le latin et ses métamorphoses en diachronie longue, des fluctuations du latin classique aux nouvelles régulations du protoroman
Authors: Banniard Michel
Published: January 2024

Cet article a pour but de présenter une synthèse à propos des découvertes et progrès récents dans le domaine de l’évolution langagière du latin classique au protoroman, après un demi-siècle de recherche innovante due au concept neuf de sociolinguistique diachronique mis en oeuvre dans une convergence commune par un nombre significatif de chercheurs travaillant aussi bien en histoire de l’Antiquité tardive et du haut Moyen Age qu’en philologie latine et romane, et qu’en linguistique. En premier lieu, il définit une nouvelle zone chronologique s’étendant du troisième au septième siècle et un nouvel objet spécifique, la dite «latinophonie tardive » , tous deux définis comme un terme intermédiaire spécifique, du point de vue tant chronologique que typologique, entre la latinophonie classique et la romanophonie archaïque. En second lieu, il réfute l’explication de ce profond changement langagier par le recours démodé à une décomposition générale du latin en tant que conséquence mortelle d’une civilisation «décadente » , et il insiste à rebours sur le rôle éminent des facteurs internes positifs à l’oeuvre dans cette métamorphose. En troisième lieu, il cite une série de documents pragmatiques dont la langue écrite doit être caractérisée non plus comme du «vieux » latin, mais comme du latin «nouveau » , autrement dit du roman archaïque, fréquemment caché (dans le passé) et se dissimulant (dans le présent) sous une graphie latiniforme, régulière ou erratique, comme les propres acteurs de ces siècles comblaient adroitement le fossé invoqué entre la langue parlée et la langue écrite : l’histoire documentée par écrit des langues romanes doit ainsi commencer dès le huitième siècle.
Uno zibaldone «artificiale» di Paolo Diacono : Paris, BnF, Lat. 528, fol. 121-139
Authors: Russo Adriano
Published: January 2024

Le manuscrit Paris, BnF, lat. 528 est un livre scolaire assemblé à l’abbaye de Saint-Denis entre la fin du VIII e et le début du IX e siècle. Les fol. 121-139 (= P) peuvent être isolés et considérés comme une unité codicologique autonome. Ils sont indépendants aussi quant à leur contenu. Ils transmettent un recueil de poèmes provenant de l’entourage carolingien (des années 70 et 80 du VIIIe siècle) et des textes didactiques. Le compilateur de ce corpus montre des intérêts conformes à ceux des intellectuels qui participaient aux réformes scolaires voulues par Charlemagne au début de son règne. Certains aspects du corpus poétique de P permettent d’envisager l’hypothèse que ce manuscrit soit une sorte de recueil personnel de Paul Diacre, formé par l’assemblage de textes qu’il avait recueillis pendant son séjour en France (782-785), et qui circulaient sur des papiers ou des fiches personnels. L’étude des matériaux non-poétiques de
Glossari e altre raccolte
Authors: Gatti Paolo
Published: January 2024

Panoramica sui principali tipi di raccolte lessicografiche latine (Festo, Nonio, Fulgenzio e Synonyma Ciceronis, Differentiae verborum, glossari). Si suggerisce anche di attualizzare il Thesaurus glossarum emendatarum di Georg Goetz.
Syrma id est longaria : analisi e fortuna di una glossa controversa
Authors: Artemisio Francesca
Published: January 2024

Il contributo ricostruisce l’origine e la fortuna di una particolare definizione della voce greca syrma (longaria o longae manus scriptura) in epoca medievale. Nella sua accezione primigenia di «veste tragica » , il termine presenta nel latino d’epoca classica esigue attestazioni, e ancor minori sono i casi in cui esso assume il valore metonimico di «tragedia » ; non sarà dunque un caso che il grecismo, per la sua rarità, abbia attirato l’attenzione degli esegeti carolingi, ai quali si deve, probabilmente per sovrapposizione di informazioni, la nascita di un tecnicismo grafico.