bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Irisin Improves Preeclampsia by Promoting Embryo Implantation and Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Zhu Dawei , Huang Jie , Wu Yujie , Fan Lin , Liu Yijun , Zhang Qianwen , Li Li , Han Jian , Liu Xinghui
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific disorder with unclear pathogenesis. Irisin, a recently identified exercise-induced factor, significantly influences lipid metabolism and cardiovascular function. Nonetheless, its role in trophoblast development during human placentation and the related intracellular signaling pathways remain poorly understood.

METHODS:

We assessed peripheral blood irisin expression in early pregnancy among patients with preeclampsia and its correlation with key clinical indicators. In trophoblast cell lines and mice, we used exogenous irisin and viral knockdown to investigate functional changes. Phosphorylation-specific antibody arrays and dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to explore downstream molecular mechanisms, which were subsequently validated in trophoblast cell lines and relevant gene knockout mice.

RESULTS:

In early pregnancy, patients with preeclampsia exhibit decreased peripheral blood irisin levels, occurring earlier than traditional predictive markers, such as PLGF (placental growth factor) and sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1). Furthermore, irisin concentration is positively correlated with proteinuria and abnormal blood pressure during pregnancy. Exogenous irisin significantly enhanced trophoblast cell migration, invasion, and proliferation while inhibiting apoptosis. It also increased STAT (signal transducers and activators of transcription) 4 phosphorylation and its binding to the GLUT (glucose transporter)-3 promoter, resulting in elevated GLUT-3 expression and glucose uptake in trophoblast cells. In vivo, increased peripheral irisin promoted embryo implantation, vascular remodeling, and enhanced glucose uptake, whereas reduced irisin resulted in a preeclampsia-like phenotype characterized by elevated blood pressure, proteinuria, renal-placental dysfunction, adipose accumulation, and restricted fetal growth.

CONCLUSIONS:

Peripheral irisin improves preeclampsia by promoting embryo implantation and vascular remodeling through the activation of the STAT4/GLUT-3 pathway. Reduced peripheral irisin may contribute to preeclampsia-like pathologies. This study supports the advocacy for appropriate exercise during early pregnancy and provides new insights for preeclampsia prevention.
Head and shoulders—The impact of an extended head model on the simulation and optimization of transcranial electric stimulation
Authors: Van Hoornweder Sybren , Cappozzo Vittoria , De Herde Laura , Puonti Oula , Siebner Hartwig R. , Meesen Raf L.J. , Thielscher Axel
Published: November 2024

Electric field calculations are increasingly used for dose characterization of transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), but existing open-source head models are inaccurate for extracephalic montages that include electrodes placed on the neck or shoulder. We introduce the “Ernie Extended” model, an MRI- and CT-derived open-source head model extending to the upper shoulder region. Simulations of extracephalic tES targeting the cerebellum and supplementary motor area show significant differences in electric fields when using Ernie Extended compared to the non-extended Ernie model. Additionally, we propose an electrode layout that complements the electroencephalography 10–20 system with extracephalic electrode positions. We demonstrate the use of this layout for optimizing multi-electrode tES montages for cerebellar stimulation, enhancing focality, and reducing off-target stimulation, particularly of the spinal cord. Our results highlight the practical value of the Ernie Extended model for accurately characterizing doses produced by extracephalic tES montages and when targeting more caudal brain regions.
A telescopic independent component analysis on functional magnetic resonance imaging dataset
Authors: Mirzaeian Shiva , Faghiri Ashkan , Calhoun Vince D. , Iraji Armin
Published: November 2024

Brain function can be modeled as dynamic interactions between functional sources at different spatial scales, and each spatial scale can contain its functional sources with unique information, thus using a single scale may provide an incomplete view of brain function. This paper introduces a novel approach, termed “telescopic independent component analysis (TICA),” designed to construct spatial functional hierarchies and estimate functional sources across multiple spatial scales using fMRI data. The method employs a recursive independent component analysis (ICA) strategy, leveraging information from a larger network to guide the extraction of information about smaller networks. We apply our model to the default mode network (DMN), visual network (VN), and right frontoparietal network (RFPN). We investigate further on the DMN by evaluating the difference between healthy people and individuals with schizophrenia. We show that the TICA approach can detect the spatial hierarchy of the DMN, VN, and RFPN. In addition, the TICA revealed DMN-associated group differences between cohorts that may not be captured if we focus on a single-scale ICA. In sum, our proposed approach represents a promising new tool for studying functional sources.
Diaspora as a Catalyst in India-United Arab Emirates (UAE) Cooperation
Authors: Pattnaik Jajati K. , Ghoble Vrushal T. , Panda Chandan K.
Published: November 2024

The Indian diaspora plays a crucial role in developing strong bilateral synergies between India and the UAE. The collaboration includes remittances, trade, connectivity, tourism, education, health, culture and cuisine, among other things. The quantum of investment and trade cooperation between both countries explains the depth of their relationship. This penetration is linked to the Indian diaspora, which shapes the constituents of meaningful cooperation. The Indian migrant inflow into the UAE started to increase in the 1970s, drawn by the oil economy, coupled with global events such as globalisation and economic liberalisation. The UAE’s political dispensation, albeit conservative, has allowed the diasporic communities the space to pursue their aspirations in myriad fields. The Indian diaspora capitalises on this scope for shared success. Therefore, this paper examines the constituents of bilateralism, the India–UAE partnership and their mutual dependencies, and the role of the Indian diaspora as a significant factor in the bilateral exercise.
Uncovering Class in Central Asian Diaspora in Russia
Authors: Vorobeva Ekaterina
Published: November 2024

The diaspora has long been regarded as an empowering, egalitarian community, with its internal inequalities largely overlooked. In particular, little is known about how socioeconomic status affects intradiasporic relations. The current study challenges the romanticised perception of the diaspora by shedding light on its internal class disparities. Focusing on the Central Asian diaspora in Russia, the research demonstrates that diaspora elites may be involved in capitalising on the precarity of vulnerable diasporans. More specifically, Central Asian migrant entrepreneurs have been found to weaponise diaspora solidarity to exploit and subjugate migrant workers.
Indian Diaspora and the Popularity of Indian Cuisine in Thailand in the Digital Era
Authors: Srichampa Sophana
Published: November 2024

The study delves into Indian cuisine in Thailand, using data from online sources that focus on content related to Indian cuisine, restaurants and grocery stores. The study applies content analysis to explore identity and the linguistic landscapes in Indian culinary practices. Indian cuisine is gaining popularity among Thais, becoming a part of their cultural heritage and showcased on digital platforms. Restaurants and grocery stores feature Indian dishes, ingredients and packaged foods, and their online platforms facilitate easy access to this cuisine. In the linguistic landscape of Indian restaurant names, bilingual names are the most prevalent, followed by monolingual names, with trilingual and quadrilingual names being less common. The potential of Indian cuisine in Thailand is evident through its introduction in convenience stores and the importation of Indian ingredients, enhancing India’s soft power and influencing economic and social dynamics in the region.
‘We Still Exist’
Authors: Khorattana Prapatsara , Sherer Penchan Pradubmook
Published: November 2024

This ethnographic study explores the life histories of 12 key informants of Siamese descent who were living in Myanmar but illegally fled into Thailand following civil unrest and thus became a diaspora in their motherland. The study was conducted from 2018 to 2022 in the Singkhon diaspora community of Ban Rai Krao village near the Thai-Myanmar border, in Prachuap Kiri Khan province, Thailand. It used the Critical Medical Anthropology (CMA) perspective, the concept of social suffering, and borderland anthropology to illustrate the traumatic experiences of the Singkhon and their participation in social movements for citizenship rights, land ownership and, particularly, public healthcare access. Although they have cooperated with Thai Nationality Reintegration Networks for decades, they have run into difficulties as a result of power relations within capitalism and bureaucratic delays. Furthermore, the Covid-19 pandemic made it more difficult for those without ID cards to access government assistance and healthcare.
On a new genus and twelve new species of jumping spiders from southwestern China (Araneae, Salticidae, Salticinae, Euophryini)
Authors: WANG WEIHANG , YU YING , ZHANG JUNXIA
Published: November 2024

A new genus, Eremitarys gen. nov., and twelve new species of the tribe Euophryini from southwestern China are described: Eremitarys fulva sp. nov., Euochin ailao sp. nov. (♂♀), E. mang sp. nov. (♂), E. memorabilis sp. nov. (♂), E. miao sp. nov. (♂), E. pingbian sp. nov. (♂♀), E. yangtze sp. nov. (♂♀), E. yeyu sp. nov. (♂♀), E. yuan sp. nov. (♂), E. yuxi sp. nov. (♂♀), E. zunyi sp. nov. (♂♀), and Zabka dianmian sp. nov. (♂♀). Diagnostic illustrations and photographs are provided.
Remarks on the genus Emeljanovianus Dlabola, 1965 (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadellidae), with description of a new species from Italy
Authors: GUGLIELMINO ADALGISA , SANNA FRANCESCO , BÜCKLE CHRISTOPH
Published: November 2024

Emeljanvianus hyperprocessatus sp. n. from Italy is described and illustrated. It is closely related to E. medius (Mulsant & Rey, 1855) and E. hilaris (Melichar, 1900) but is easily distinguished from these species by the structure of the male genitalia, specifically the aedeagus and the pygofer lobe process. Taxonomic problems concerning E. medius and E. hilaris and their distribution in the Palearctic region are discussed. The synonymy of E. medius and E. signatus (Haupt, 1917) is confirmed.
Temporal and Cultural Significance of the Nablus Clock Tower: An Architectural Analysis
Authors: Shehada Ziad
Published: November 2024

The renowned clock tower of Nablus serves as a prominent testament to the city’s rich historical and cultural legacy. This article presents a structural analysis of the Nablus Clock Tower, examining its temporal and cultural importance within the broader regional context. By investigating its history, evolution, and functional role, the article draws on archival sources, historical documents, and architectural plans, tracing the tower’s journey from its inception to its contemporary state. The discussion not only explores Nablus’s historical background but also outlines the influences and events that culminated in the construction of the Clock Tower. The study further examines the clock tower’s practical role as a timekeeping structure, a communal gathering spot, and a symbol of urban development. Through comparisons with contemporaneous clock towers that share similar architectural characteristics, the research highlights the distinctive features that set the Nablus Clock Tower apart. The fusion of elaborate design elements and unique cultural elements, together with the innovative integration of the tower into its surrounding urban environment, has elevated the tower into both a distinguished object of public landmark and a pivotal point of cultural interaction. This examination ultimately illuminates the historical and architectural significance of the Nablus Clock Tower, emphasizing its profound cultural resonance. By sitting the tower within the broader temporal and cultural framework of the region, this work enriches the understanding of Nablus’s multifaceted heritage, providing new insights that enhance the appreciation of the city’s cultural layers across time.
Evaluation of the Sensitivity of Thirteen (13) Promising Cassava Varieties to Diseases (Viruses-Bacteria) and Pests (Mealybugs-Mites) in Central Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Essis Brice , Hala Kinampinan , Coulibaly Klotioloma , Dibi Konan , N’Zué Boni
Published: November 2024

Cassava (Manihot esculenta), a plant with starch-rich roots, plays a crucial role in global food security. For producers, it has become both a subsistence and cash crop. In Côte d’Ivoire, it ranks second among crops after yam. However, cassava is severely affected by bacteria, fungi, viruses, mites, and mealybugs, causing yield losses ranging from 20% to 90%. This study was conducted at the Food Crop Research Station (FCRS) of the National Center for Agronomic Research (NCAR) in Bouake in central Côte d’Ivoire. The plant material consisted of thirteen varieties of cassava of the Manihot esculenta species, from the national cassava collection. It aimed to assess the performance of thirteen promising cassava varieties, originating from the national cassava collection, against these diseases and pests under natural infestation conditions. The results revealed that the Yacé variety showed the highest sensitivity to viruses, with an incidence (I) of 96.25% and a severity index (IGS) of 2.8. In contrast, the Yavo variety was the least sensitive, with an incidence of 11.50% and a severity index of 1.3. All varieties studied demonstrated high sensitivity to bacterial blight and mite attacks, with high incidence rates observed in Bocou1 (71.25%) and Bocou3 (68.75%). However, mealybug infestation was relatively low, ranging from 8.75% (Yavo) to 33.75% (Bocou2). Except for mosaic disease, the severity indices for diseases and pests were similar across all varieties.
Physicochemical Characterization of Gasoline and Analysis of the Vulnerability and Criticality of Atmospheric Pollutants in N'Djamena
Authors: Adannou Haroun , Fall Ndiassé , Samuel Ntamack , III Simon
Published: November 2024

In this work we made an analysis for the physicochemical characterization of gasoline sold on the roadsides of the city of N'Djamena. For our first experience on the storage of gasoline in cans exposed to the sun, we noticed the formation of lumps and solid particles at the bottom of the cans. We then sampled a sample by district and subjected it to the analysis conditions. The analyses focused on Density at 15°C; ASTM distillation; Reid vapor pressure, Octane number; Determination of corrosion of copper blades as well as Determination of sulfur content. The results of the analyzed contraband gasolines are out of specifications under normal analysis conditions. Despite the many studies carried out on air pollution by particles, uncertainties remain. It is more or less complex to treat particulate pollution in urban areas, this is in fact due to the modifications resulting from different meteorological factors (wind, precipitation, etc.), topographical (slope, etc.) and urban morphological, which constitute limiting factors in the dispersion of these pollutants, thus, different maps have been studied according to the vulnerability and criticality of the accentuated situation relating to pollution throughout the city of N'Djamena. The results confirm the presence of particles that can affect human health. In addition to the presence of all the elements that we have been able to discover, there is on average the result of the presence of PM10 particles which is: 66.98016239 ug/m3 well above the WHO guideline which recommends 50 μg/m3/day as well as the daily average for PM2.5 which is: 56.83616723 ug/m3 well above the WHO guideline which recommends 25 μg/m3/day. The objective of this article is to clearly present the urgency of air pollution throughout the territory in order to take a binding decision on the current situation based on the proliferation and illicit sale of petroleum products in the city of N'Djamena, particularly gasoline.
The Eectricity Crisis and the Feasibility of Nuclear Energy in Egypt
Authors: Youssef Abeer
Published: November 2024

The power outage crisis is increasing in Egypt, negatively affecting many other sectors such as industry, agriculture, and trade. In light of the lack of sufficient capacity to meet the growing needs of consumers, which has led to regular power shortages and power outages. While Egypt needs additional energy, the production of gas and oil needed to generate thermal energy decreased in 2014, and Egypt moved from an exporter of natural gas to a net importer. In addition to this, the volume of subsidies allocated to energy increased, the rise in global prices for oil and natural gas, and the need for huge investments to create Power generation plants, development of transportation networks, and distribution of electrical energy, which led to pressure on the general budget. A continuous and reliable supply of electricity is needed for Egypt's social and economic development. Accordingly, the government encouraged the development of new energy, invited the private sector to participate in energy generation, and a number of government reforms were made in order to enhance competition in the energy market, which required the need to study the possibility of providing it using nuclear energy. Its stations have a high load capacity, operate almost at full capacity all the time, are characterized by the stability of the electrical network and energy independence, and avoid the risks of fuel price shocks, and the costs of generating electricity from them decrease with increasing production. The importance of this research lies in highlighting the challenges facing the structure of the electricity sector in Egypt, and studying the advantages enjoyed by nuclear energy as the most important renewable energy sources in the world. Its importance also lies in comparing nuclear energy with other energy sources, and trying to benefit Egypt from obtaining this energy for use. In economic development projects, rationalizing tariffs and supporting their access to the poor. This research is divided into:The first topic: The electricity generation crisis in Egypt and a development vision for the contribution of nuclear energy to its solution, The second topic: trends in development planning for establishing nuclear plants in Egypt. The electricity generation crisis in Egypt and a development vision for the contribution of nuclear energy to its solution.
Correlation and Regression Analyses of Disease and Agronomic Traits of Ethiopian Mustard (Brassica Carinata A. Braun.) Genotypes
Authors: Aboye Birhanu , Gemeda Alemu
Published: November 2024

Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata A. Braun) is an important oilseed crop with significant potential for food and energy production. The study evaluated 36 genotypes using a 6 x 6 lattice design to analyze correlations and regression among traits, aiming to understand their relationships and identify key traits for developing high-performing varieties. The analysis of variance revealed significant variation (p < 0.001) for traits including seed yield, flowering time, maturity date, disease resistance, thousand seed weight, oil content and oil yield; indicating the potential for genetic improvement. However, traits such as downy mildew resistance, leaf spot and branching showed non-significant variation, suggesting these traits may be more influenced by environmental factors than by genetic differences among the genotypes. Pearson correlation coefficients highlighted significant relationships among traits. Days to flowering (r = 0.687) and maturity (r = 0.029) positively correlated with yield, while disease traits negatively impacted seed yield. Notably, Thousand Seed Weight (r = 0.985) strongly correlated with yield, underscoring the importance of seed size. A multiple regression model explained 99.7% of the variation in seed yield, with a highly significant intercept (1863.35, p < 0.001). Key associations were found with secondary branches (12.32), oil content (-46.79) and oil yield (2.19). This study confirms the potential for improving Ethiopian mustard yield through genetic selection of key traits. It is recommended that breeding programs focus on enhancing seed size and disease resistance while considering environmental factors to maximize yield potential.
Response of Yield of Shallot (Allium ascalonium L.) to Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates and Spacing Under Irrigation at Mulo, Ethiopia
Authors: Hailu Alemu , Jalata Zerihun
Published: November 2024

The shallot (Allium ascalonium L.) is one of the important alliaceous crops cultivated in many tropical countries. It is an important horticultural crop used to flavor the local stew "wot" and a source of income for farmers in Ethiopia. However, the productivity of shallot is low at study area due to various limiting factors such as low soil fertility, plant population and lack of improved agronomic practices. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of intra-row spacing and nitrogen fertilizer levels on growth, yield and quality of shallot at Mulo District, Oromia Regional state, Ethiopia during 2021/22 off season. The treatments consisted of four intra-row spacing (5, 10, 15 and 20) cm and four levels of nitrogen fertilizer (0, 50, 100 and 150) kgNha-1 tested in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on shallot yield was collected. The interaction effect of intra-row spacing and nitrogen fertilizer influenced the marketable yield, unmarketable yield, bulb weight, bulb fresh weight, bulb dry weight, dry matter and total yield. As a result, the treatment combination of 150kgha-1 nitrogen and 15cm intra-row spacing yielded the highest net benefit of shallot (Eth-Birr 1,012,274), followed by the treatment combination of 150kgha-1 nitrogen and 20 cm intra-row spacing. In conclusion, the above findings indicated that the combined application of 150kgNha-1 with 15 cm spacing can improve shallot growth and productivity in the Mulo district area. However, more research needs to be done in different seasons and locations, taking into account the application rate of nitrogen fertilizer and different intra-row spacing, to generate more reliable information.
Pros and Cons of Different Irrigation Scheduling Approaches: A Review
Authors: Asefa Addisu , Tadesse Minda
Published: November 2024

Scheduling irrigation involves making a decision of how much water to apply and when. Three factors enter into the decision: water needs of the plants, water availability, and storing capacity of the soil around the roots. When to irrigate should be greatly influenced by water needs of the plants. Irrigation scheduling (IS) aims to give plants the right amount of water at the right times in order to promote plant growth and achieve high yield and/or quality. The four most popular ways of operating irrigation scheduling includes: evapotranspiration and water balance (ET-WB), soil moisture status, plant water status, and models based irrigation scheduling. When the four types of irrigation scheduling systems are thoroughly examined, it becomes clear that they are all centered on soil moisture, which serves as a link or bridge between crop water needed for growth and irrigation management). A few studies have been accomplished on pros and cons of different irrigation scheduling approaches. The purpose of this review was to provide some information on pros and cons of four selected irrigation scheduling methods, viz: evapotranspiration and water balance (ET-WB), soil moisture status, plant water status, and models based irrigation scheduling. When the four types of irrigation scheduling systems are thoroughly examined, it becomes clear that they are all centered on soil moisture, which serves as a link or bridge between crop water needed for growth and irrigation management. Plant-based techniques can need professional oversight since farmers may find it difficult to understand the tracked data, which reduces the dependability of irrigation. When built software or a procedure is based on a well-calibrated model, model-based methods are simpler for users. When compared to the soil moisture sample irrigation scheduling approach, the evapotranspiration losses irrigation scheduling method uses less irrigation water regardless of the minimal yield difference.
School Principal’s Perspective on Continuing Institutional Growth Development of an Education of Private School in Phnom Penh
Authors: Seam Chanthoul
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to explore the school principal’s perspective on continuing institutional growth development. The school principal's job is hard in a number of ways. School principals have to balance their jobs as site manager and instructional leader on a regular basis. This study looked into and identified the knowledge and learning opportunities that school leaders, particularly those who head schools with bilingual programs, rely on to lead their schools. School leadership and management are recognized as key determinants for school reforms; however, little is known about the effects of school principals’ leadership as perceived by teachers on teaching and learning outcomes. Education is main key element for develop family value, community, country, and all sectors in the world. So, school leader must be set clear policy, vision, mission, and core value for students ’achievement. School principal need to have strong commitment and long perspective for develop institutions by change their leadership styles, infrastructures, and school development’s plans. According to data collection and analysis of Mean = 3.29; Std. Deviation = 6.19 from 30 school principals and vice school principals from private school located in Phnom Penh show that: Schools or institutional growth development depend on school principal leadership styles and long perspective for development institutions. Another researchers or scholar can be choose leadership behavior, employee ’mindset change, integrated technology for institution for next studies.
An Examination of Ethiopian Data on the Coffee Value Chain from a Systemic Perspective
Authors: Tolesa Shibeshi , Tolesa Barasa
Published: November 2024

Ethiopia's principal export crop is coffee. Currently, one of the most profitable exports for nations in East Africa, including Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, is coffee. Ethiopia is recognized as the source and major hub of Arabica coffee varietal. Global coffee production is insignificant, with over 70 nations and approximately 25 million growers producing coffee. Seventeen percent of coffee producers worldwide are from Ethiopia. Ethiopia, which produces 4.46 percent of the world's coffee, is the world's fifth-largest producer, behind only Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Indonesia. the biggest and most prolific grower in Africa, making up around 43.15% of the continent. Ethiopian coffee varieties vary greatly in terms of genetic variety. The nation has also captured the attention of the world because of its inherent. More than 60% of the world's coffee is produced by the top three countries—Brazil, Vietnam, and Colombia together. Ethiopia is the eighth-largest supplier of coffee to the world market, accounting for 3–3.7 percent. Sixty countries import coffee from Ethiopia. The top 10 countries to import Ethiopian coffee, in terms of value, were Italy, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Belgium, South Korea, China, the United Arab Emirates, and Taiwan. They make up 84% of the whole. Japan moved up from sixth place in 2020–2021 to fourth place in the world for coffee imports in 2021–2022.
Late Local Recurrence of Carcinoma in situ - Only Bladder Cancer
Authors: Nishimura Masanori , Ueno Syun , Nomura Takeshi
Published: November 2024

Late recurrence (LR) of bladder cancer after radical cystectomy (RC) is rare, and few studies have been conducted. We report a case of local LR of bladder cancer 10.3 years after RC. The pathology at RC was almost carcinoma in situ (CIS) only. The patient underwent metastasectomy, and treatment with an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) achieved a complete response (CR). A 61-year-old woman was referred to our hospital for macrohematuria and bladder irritability in June 2012. She underwent RC along with pelvic lymph node dissection and ileal conduit creation. The pathologic findings were CIS, G2>G3, pT1, pN0. She visited our hospital with complaints of lower abdominal discomfort in November 2022, and recurrence was found on the pelvic floor by abdominal computed tomography. Metastasectomy confirmed metastasis of urothelial carcinoma. As salvage therapy, systemic chemotherapy with a platinum agent and an ICI were administered, leading to CR. Long-term follow-up should be considered for patients with bladder cancer, even for early-stage CIS-only tumors. Metastasectomy could be the primary option for LR of bladder cancer after RC.
Adaptive Generalized Extended State Observer for a Single Phase PV Grid-connected System Operating Under the Sudanese-Sahelian Climate of Cameroon
Authors: null Yaouba , Ayang Albert , Tom Ahmat , Djongyang Noël
Published: November 2024

Knowing the health of a system allows to guarante its efficiency and sustainability. The state observer is one of several techniques used by authors to estimate system state. This paper focuses on the problem of simultaneous states estimation of DC (Direct Current) and AC (Alternating Current) sides of a single-phase Photovoltaic (PV) grid-connected operating under the Sudanese-Sahelian climate of Cameroon. A generalized extended state observer (GESO) has been designed to simultaneously estimate the three states and the three disturbances of the system. A good estimation of the state and disturbances is achieved by the appropriate choice of the observer gain and the disturbance compensation gain resulting from the correct pole placement. The GESO robustness has been tested by varying the PV voltage and grid voltage. When there are no input fluctuations, the estimation errors of nominal states and disturbances converge to zero. The fluctuation in PV voltage resulting from partial shading has a significant impact on the boost converter current. The boost converter current varies proportionally with the drop in voltage due to partial shading from 55% to 59%. Under the grid voltage fluctuation, the boost converter current remains stable while the DC bus voltage and inverter current are significantly affected. The proposed GESO prove its robustness to perturbations from the PV array and grid side into the Single-Phase PV Grid-connected System. This paper contributes to the study of observers applied to the PV system and points the way to future work on diagnosing faults in PV systems operating in Cameroon's Sudanese-Sahelian climate.
Preparation of Ready-to-use Therapeutic Foods Based on Soy, Millet, Rice, Corn, and Sugar for the Management of infant with Moderate Acute Malnutrition
Authors: N’guessan Anon , Aka Francis , Yeboue Kouame , Gnonde Adelaide , Ake-Tano Sassor , Yapi Ahoua
Published: November 2024

The prevalent number of children in developing countries from suffering MAM is increasing daily and this has significant cost implications for their treatment. Therefore, the management of MAM should be a public health priority. Ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF) play a fundamental role in the management protocol for severe acute malnutrition in children aged 6 to 59 months. In our study, we aim to enhance the value of ready-to-use foods prepared from local products, namely soya, millet, rice, maize and sugar (SOMRIS10-16). The objective was to develop a formula meeting the recommended nutritional and microbiological requirements in order to use it as a substitute for reference products for the treatment of moderate acute malnutrition. It has allowed to develop a ready-to-use therapeutic food using the linear programming technique, then produced according to traditional methods. The nutritional and microbiological qualities have been determined and confirm that the formula based on soy, millet, rice, corn, and sugar (SOMRIS10-16), meets the nutritional and microbiological needs recommended for children with moderate acute malnutrition. It will be subjected to the clinical trial processes in force in order to use it with complete peace of mind.
Study of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Family Planning: Case of Female Staff of the Communal Medical Center (CMC) of Flamboyants, Conakry, Guinea
Authors: II Sow , Tangaly Diallo , Koussy Bah , Massa Keita , Aziz Balde , Sidy Diallo , Djibril Balde , M’mah Sylla , Talibe Balde , Abdourahamane Diallo , Sory Balde , Telly Sy
Published: November 2024

Introduction: The aim was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of female staff on family planning at the Flamboyants Communal Medical Center. Methods: This was a 3-month cross-sectional, prospective, descriptive and analytical study involving women (doctors, midwives, laboratory technicians and nurses) working at the Flamboyants CMC and agreeing to participate in the study. Results: The contraceptive prevalence was 61.9%. All respondents were aware of FP (100%). The most commonly cited contraceptive methods were: the intrauterine device (IUD) at 85.7%, the Jadelle implant (79.4%) and the contraceptive pill (68.3%). More than 8 out of 10 respondents (81.0%) were in favor of using family planning. Most of the respondents, 74.5%, discussed family planning with their spouses and 70.2% of the spouses were in favor of FP. The most frequently used method was the pill (59.0%). The factors associated with the use of FP were: dialogue with the spouse on contraception (p = 0.018), marriage (p = 0.012) and good attitude of the spouse towards FP (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Improving this prevalence would require the involvement of spouses and midwives during counseling during antenatal and postpartum follow-up.
Synthesis and Characterization of a New Hybrid Polyoxometalate Compound: Bis(3-aminopropyl)ammonium Hexatungstotellurate(VI) Octahydrate
Authors: Gueye Papa , Yaffa Lamine , Seye Dame , Pouye Serigne , Stoica Alexandru-Constantin , Diop Cheikh , Sidibé Mamadou
Published: November 2024

Synthesis strategy of hybrids Polyoxometalates have drawn a lot of attention owing to interesting. Herein, we describe, the one pot process used to synthesize a new hybrid polyoxotungstate, (C6H20N3)2[TeW6O24].8H2O, at a temperature of 200°C. This preparation was carried out by mixing equimolar amounts of H2WO4, C6H17N3, and H6TeO6. The compound was characterized by infrared and UV-visible spectroscopy techniques, as well as by X-ray diffraction. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic system with the space group P21/c. The unit cell are: a = 8.74874(14) Å, b = 12.5894(2) Å, c = 18.5176(3) Å, α = 90°, β = 92.6078(14)°, γ = 90°. The compound consists of a non-protonated Anderson-type heteropolyanion [TeW6O24]6- stabilized by two organoammonium cations [C6H20N3]3+ and eight water molecules. The polyoxoanion [TeW6O24]6- adopts an Anderson-Evans type structure of class A. Thus, the polyanion is bult of six {WO6} units surrounding a {TeO6} octahedron. The six {WO6} are linked together by edges sharing and connected around the heteroatom, via oxygen atoms, forming a planar structure with approximate D3d symmetry. The cohesion of the three-dimensional structure is ensured by hydrogen bonds between the polyanions, the organoammonium groups, and the water molecules, thereby providing significant stability to the compound. UV–Visible absorption spectroscopy shows a strong absorption band at 296nm attributed to Ligand-Metal Charge Transfer (LMCT) transition of the O→W and the main IR absorption bands of the polyanion appear at: 942 cm⁻¹, 875 cm⁻¹, 766 cm⁻¹ and 599 cm-¹.
Comparative Evaluation of Tomato Varieties: A Comprehensive Analysis of Yield Attributes
Authors: Joshi Bhuwan , Satyal Sukriti
Published: November 2024

This article presents a comprehensive comparative evaluation of tomato varieties. The study focused on key yield attributes, including plant height, fruits per cluster, fruit diameter, fruit length, yield per hectare, days to 50% flowering, and maturity. Significant variations in plant height were observed among the varieties. Monoprecos had the tallest plant height (125.73 cm), while 2-HRDTOM035 was the shortest (83.26 cm). The number of fruits per cluster varied, with HRD109 producing the most (7.33) and HRDTOM084 the least (3.86). HRDTOM084 excelled in fruit dimensions, having the largest fruit diameter (19.88 mm) and fruit length (5.94 cm), whereas HRD109 showed the smallest diameter (10.16 mm). Yield per hectare also differed significantly, with HRDTOM084 delivering the highest yield (11.06 t/ha), and 2-HRDTOM035 recording the lowest (4.84 t/ha). The study also analyzed days to 50% flowering, revealing HRDTOM084 as the slowest to flower (48.60 days) and Monoprecos as the quickest (30.60 days). Days to maturity mirrored these results, with HRDTOM084 taking the longest to mature (93.73 days). In comparison, earlier studies with nine open-pollinated and hybrid varieties in other regions, such as Khajura and Lumle, revealed similar patterns in yield and growth, confirming the genetic diversity in tomato production. Overall, HRDTOM084 emerged as the most promising variety for commercial cultivation due to its superior yield, fruit size, and productivity, while Monoprecos and 2-HRDTOM035 may be suitable for environments that require shorter growth cycles. This review highlights the importance of selecting tomato varieties based on specific traits, such as plant height, yield potential, fruit quality, and adaptability to local growing conditions, to optimize production. Future research could focus on enhancing disease resistance and studying performance under different climatic conditions to further improve tomato cultivation practices in Nepal.
Temperature Increases Threaten the Congo Basin Rainforest in the Twenty-First Century More than Precipitation Changes
Authors: Cook Kerry H. , Vizy Edward K. , Andrews Patrick C. , Zhao Siyu
Published: November 2024

Western and central equatorial Africa—the Congo basin region—is one of the most convectively active regions on the planet. It supports a large, diverse tropical forest and sequesters carbon. Despite its importance, the region is understudied and poorly observed. Seasonality in the Congo basin region is defined by variations in precipitation, not temperature. The equinoctial seasons produce the highest rainfall rates. Summers are also wet, while winters are dry. A number of studies have analyzed precipitation trends in observations, but a clear signal has not emerged. GCMs do not represent the regional climate with high accuracy, and their projections disagree. Analyses of the forest health, however, document a decline. Here, convective-permitting model simulations with a 3-km resolution are used to predict greenhouse gas–forced changes in the climate of the Congo basin. Implications of the simulated changes for the health of the Congolese rainforest are evaluated. Simulated surface temperatures in the Congo basin region increase by 4.0–5.4 K by the end of the century, depending on region and season. Increases in atmospheric water vapor and changes in clouds provide important feedbacks to the radiative forcing. No statistically significant changes in regional-scale precipitation occur, but convective storms intensify locally. Since estimates based on optimal temperatures for photosynthesis suggest 4-K warming causes a decline in tropical forests, these results suggest that temperature increases pose a greater threat to the health of the Congolese rainforest than precipitation changes in the twenty-first century.
Biomechanical properties of human articular cartilage under compressive loads
Authors: Boschetti Federica , Pennati Giancarlo , Gervaso Francesca , Peretti Giuseppe M. , Dubini Gabriele
Published: November 2024

The function of articular cartilage is to support and distribute loads and to provide lubrication in the diarthrodial joints. Cartilage function is described by proper mechanical and rheological properties, strain and depth‐dependent, which are not completely assessed. Unconfined and confined compression are commonly used to evaluate the Young's modulus (E) and the aggregate modulus (HA), respectively. The Poisson's ratio (ν) can be calculated indirectly from the equilibrium compression data, or using the biphasic indentation technique; it has recently been optically evaluated by using video microscopy during unconfined compression. The transient response of articular cartilage during confined compression depends on its permeability k; a constant value of k can be easily identified by a simple analytical model of confined compression tests, whereas more complex models or direct measurements (permeation tests) are needed to study the permeability dependence on deformation. A poroelastic finite element model of articular cartilage was developed for this purpose. The elastic parameters (E,ν) of the model were evaluated performing unconfined compression creep tests on human articular cartilage disks, whereas k was identified from the confined test response. Our combined experimental and computational method can be used to identify the parameters that define the permeability dependence on deformation, as a function of depth from articular surface.
Mechano‐acoustic determination of Young's modulus of articular cartilage
Authors: Saarakkala Simo , Korhonen Rami K. , Laasanen Mikko S. , Töyräs Juha , Rieppo Jarno , Jurvelin Jukka S.
Published: November 2024

The compressive stiffness of an elastic material is traditionally characterized by its Young's modulus. Young's modulus of articular cartilage can be directly measured using unconfined compression geometry by assuming the cartilage to be homogeneous and isotropic. In isotropic materials, Young's modulus can also be determined acoustically by the measurement of sound speed and density of the material. In the present study, acoustic and mechanical techniques, feasible for in vivo measurements, were investigated to quantify the static and dynamic compressive stiffness of bovine articular cartilage in situ. Ultrasound reflection from the cartilage surface, as well as the dynamic modulus were determined with the recently developed ultrasound indentation instrument and compared with the reference mechanical and ultrasound speed measurements in unconfined compression (n=72). In addition, the applicability of manual creep measurements with the ultrasound indentation instrument was evaluated both experimentally and numerically. Our experimental results indicated that the sound speed could predict 47% and 53% of the variation in the Young's modulus and dynamic modulus of cartilage, respectively. The dynamic modulus, as determined manually with the ultrasound indentation instrument, showed significant linear correlations with the reference Young's modulus (r2=0.445, p<0.01, n=70) and dynamic modulus (r2=0.779, p<0.01, n=70) of the cartilage. Numerical analyses indicated that the creep measurements, conducted manually with the ultrasound indentation instrument, were sensitive to changes in Young's modulus and permeability of the tissue, and were significantly influenced by the tissue thickness. We conclude that acoustic parameters, i.e. ultrasound speed and reflection, are indicative to the intrinsic mechanical properties of the articular cartilage. Ultrasound indentation instrument, when further developed, provides an applicable tool for the in vivo detection of cartilage mechano‐acoustic properties. These techniques could promote the diagnostics of osteoarthrosis.
Role of cell‐associated matrix in the development of free‐swelling and dynamically loaded chondrocyte‐seeded agarose gels
Authors: Kelly Terri‐Ann N. , Wang Christopher C.‐B. , Mauck Robert L. , Ateshian Gerard A. , Hung Clark T.
Published: November 2024

Chondrocytes embedded in agarose and subjected to dynamic deformational loading produce a functional matrix with time in culture, but there is usually a delay in the development of significant differences compared to free swelling. In this study, we hypothesized that the initial presence of a cell‐associated matrix would expedite construct development in response to dynamic deformational loading. Seeded samples with enzymatically isolated chondrocytes and chondrons (the chondrocyte and its pericellular matrix) and examined the effects of seeding density and dynamic loading on the development of tissue properties. At 60 million/ml, dynamic loading significantly augmented the development of material properties in chondrocyte‐ and chondron‐seeded constructs. Biochemical content and histological analysis indicated that the deposition of GAG, link protein and collagens are affected by the pre‐existing cell‐associated matrix of the chondron‐seeded samples. The pericellular matrix associated with the chondrons did not expedite the development of material properties in response to deformational loading, disproving our hypothesis. The relative concentration and distribution of matrix proteins may play a major role in the disparate responses observed for the chondrocyte‐ and chondron‐seeded cultures. In further support of these findings, culturing chondrocytes in agarose for two weeks prior to the application of deformational loading also did not exhibit expedited construct development.
Flexibility of type I collagen and mechanical property of connective tissue
Authors: An Kai‐Nan , Sun Yu‐Long , Luo Zong‐Ping
Published: November 2024

The hierarchical organization of the connective tissue, more specifically, the musculoskeletal soft tissue, has been extensively studied. With advancements in experimental methodology, investigation of the structure–function relationship has provided more insight into how the mechanical integrity of the tissue is created. Such information is essential in the linking the macroscopic loading environment of the tissue to the microscopic level of the tissue to be experienced by the cell. The flexibility and elastic modulus of gross connective tissue, the fascicle, the fiber and then the collagen molecule are compared based on the data available in the literature.
Mathematical framework for modeling tissue growth
Authors: Volokh K.Y.
Published: November 2024

A phenomenological continuum mechanics framework for modeling growth of living tissues is proposed. Tissue is considered as an open system where mass is not conserved. The momentum balance is completed with the full‐scale mass balance. Constitutive equations define simple growing materials. ‘Thermoelastic’ formulation of a simple growing material is specified. Within this framework traction free growth of a cylinder is considered. It is shown that the theory accommodates the case where stresses are not generated in uniform volumetric growth. It is also found that surface growth corresponds to a boundary layer solution of the governing equations.