bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-thermal-budget electrically active thick polysilicon for CMOS-First MEMS-last integration
Authors: Michael Aron , Chuang Ian Yao-Hsiang , Kwok Chee Yee , Omaki Kazuo
Published: June 2024

Low-thermal-budget, electrically active, and thick polysilicon films are necessary for building a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) on top of a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). However, the formation of these polysilicon films is a challenge in this field. Herein, for the first time, the development of in situ phosphorus-doped silicon films deposited under ultrahigh-vacuum conditions (~10−9 Torr) using electron-beam evaporation (UHVEE) is reported. This process results in electrically active, fully crystallized, low-stress, smooth, and thick polysilicon films with low thermal budgets. The crystallographic, mechanical, and electrical properties of phosphorus-doped UHVEE polysilicon films are studied. These films are compared with intrinsic and boron-doped UHVEE silicon films. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) are used for crystallographic and surface morphological investigations. Wafer curvature, cantilever deflection profile and resonance frequency measurements are employed to study the mechanical properties of the specimens. Moreover, resistivity measurements are conducted to investigate the electrical properties of the films. Highly vertical, high-aspect-ratio micromachining of UHVEE polysilicon has been developed. A comb-drive structure is designed, simulated, fabricated, and characterized as an actuator and inertial sensor comprising 20-μm-thick in situ phosphorus-doped UHVEE films at a temperature less than 500 °C. The results demonstrate for the first time that UHVEE polysilicon uniquely allows the realization of mechanically and electrically functional MEMS devices with low thermal budgets.
Cold atom microwave clock based on intracavity cooling in China space station
Authors: Deng Siminda , Ren Wei , Xiang Jingfeng , Zhao Jianbo , Li Lin , Zhang Di , Wan JinYin , Meng Yanling , Jiang XiaoJun , Li Tang , Liu Liang , Lü Desheng
Published: June 2024

Atomic clocks with higher frequency stability and accuracy than traditional space-borne atomic clocks are the cornerstone of long-term autonomous operation of space-time-frequency systems. We proposed a space cold atoms clock based on an intracavity cooling scheme, which captures cold atoms at the center of a microwave cavity and then executes in situ interactions between the cold atoms and microwaves. As a result of the microgravity environment in space, the cold atoms can interact with the microwaves for a longer time, which aids in realizing a high-precision atomic clock in space. This paper presents the overall design, operational characteristics, and reliability test results of the space atomic clock based on the intracavity cooling scheme designed for the operation onboard the China space station. In addition, the engineering prototype performance of the space cold atoms microwave clock is also presented. The ground test results for the clock show a fractional frequency stability of 1.1 × 10−12 τ−1/2 reaching 2.5 × 10−15 at 200,000 s, providing solid technical and data support for its future operation in orbit.
CLEMD, a circuit-level electrical measurements dataset for electrical energy management
Authors: Al-Khadher Omar , Mukhtaruddin Azharudin , Hashim Fakroul Ridzuan , Azizan Muhammad Mokhzaini , Mamat Hussin , Aqlan Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Enhancing energy efficiency in commercial buildings is crucial for reducing energy consumption. Achieving this goal requires careful monitoring and analysis of the energy usage patterns exhibited by different devices. Nonetheless, gathering data from individual appliances in commercial buildings presents difficulties due to the large number of appliances, complex installations, and costs. This paper presents the Circuits-Level Electrical Measurements Dataset (CLEMD). The measurement was conducted at the main switchboard to a set of distribution boards instead of measuring at the individual loads. The data is gathered from an institutional setting. It consists of 42 records of vital electrical parameters including voltage, current, frequency, real power, reactive power, apparent power, power factor, and odd harmonics for electrical currents. The device deployed in the measurement were industry-grade and had a high sampling rate of 200 kHz. The measurements were done over a 40-day period, from September 16 2023 to October 25 2023. CLEMD is the first Malaysian public dataset on circuit-level electricity consumption and offers analysis opportunities in different research areas such as electricity load disaggregation at circuit level, circuit identification, load profile forecasting, and pattern recognition.
The Pan-Canadian Chemical Library: A Mechanism to Open Academic Chemistry to High-Throughput Virtual Screening
Authors: Bedart Corentin , Shimokura Grace , West Frederick G. , Wood Tabitha E. , Batey Robert A. , Irwin John J. , Schapira Matthieu
Published: June 2024

Computationally screening chemical libraries to discover molecules with desired properties is a common technique used in early-stage drug discovery. Recent progress in the field now enables the efficient exploration of billions of molecules within days or hours, but this exploration remains confined within the boundaries of the accessible chemistry space. While the number of commercially available compounds grows rapidly, it remains a limited subset of all druglike small molecules that could be synthesized. Here, we present a workflow where chemical reactions typically developed in academia and unconventional in drug discovery are exploited to dramatically expand the chemistry space accessible to virtual screening. We use this process to generate a first version of the Pan-Canadian Chemical Library, a collection of nearly 150 billion diverse compounds that does not overlap with other ultra-large libraries such as Enamine REAL or SAVI and could be a resource of choice for protein targets where other libraries have failed to deliver bioactive molecules.
Topographical and histological analysis of keratinized mucosal grafts removal techniques an ex-vivo study in porcine mandibles
Authors: dos Santos Kleber Vinícius Rodrigues , Leles José Luiz Rodrigues , Roriz Virgílio Moreira , Leles Cláudio Rodrigues
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to assess the surface and tissue quality of keratinized mucosa grafts (KMG) obtained using the conventional scalpel and mucotome techniques. This was an experimental in vitro/ex vivo study involving six porcine hemi-mandibles. Specimens were harvested using both the mucotome and conventional scalpel techniques, with randomization determining the choice of technique for tissue removal. The specimens were prepared following predefined laboratory protocols and subsequently subjected to optical microscopy for evaluating epithelial and connective tissue and scanning electron microscopy for topographical and 3D profilometry analysis. Tissues harvested using the mucotome exhibited a linear base and uniform thickness, along with the presence of submucosa and fibrous connective tissue, all of which are ideal for graft success. Differences in the surface characteristics of specimens obtained through the two techniques were observed during a comparative analysis of images obtained through both microscopy types. KMG obtained using the mucotome technique displayed greater uniformity and reduced undesirable cell presence compared to the scalpel technique, thereby enhancing the likelihood of success in soft tissue graft surgical procedures. This study provides valuable insights to oral healthcare professionals and may contribute to future research aimed at achieving more successful surgeries, shorter postoperative recovery times, reduced discomfort, and an overall more positive patient experience.
Photothermal and radiotherapy with alginate-coated gold nanoparticles for breast cancer treatment
Authors: Ghaffarlou Mohammadreza , Rashidzadeh Hamid , Mohammadi Ali , Mousazadeh Navid , Barsbay Murat , Sharafi Ali , Gharbavi Mahmoud , Danafar Hossein , Javani Siamak
Published: June 2024

Radiation therapy and phototherapy are commonly used cancer treatments that offer advantages such as a low risk of adverse effects and the ability to target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. A promising strategy for cancer treatment involves using nanoparticles (NPs) in combination with radiation and photothermal therapy to target cancer cells and improve treatment efficacy. The synthesis of gold NPs (AuNPs) for use in biomedical applications has traditionally involved toxic reducing agents. Here we harnessed dopamine (DA)-conjugated alginate (Alg) for the facile and green synthesis of Au NPs (Au@Alg-DA NPs). Alg-DA conjugate reduced Au ions, simultaneously stabilized the resulting AuNPs, and prevented aggregation, resulting in particles with a narrow size distribution and improved stability. Injectable Au@Alg-DA NPs significantly promoted ROS generation in 4T1 breast cancer cells when exposed to X-rays. In addition, their administration raised the temperature under a light excitation of 808 nm, thus helping to destroy cancer cells more effectively. Importantly, no substantial cytotoxicity was detected in our Au@Alg-DA NPs. Taken together, our work provides a promising route to obtain an injectable combined radio enhancer and photothermally active nanosystem for further potential clinic translation.
Effects of multimodal explanations for autonomous driving on driving performance, cognitive load, expertise, confidence, and trust
Authors: Kaufman Robert , Costa Jean , Kimani Everlyne
Published: June 2024

Advances in autonomous driving provide an opportunity for AI-assisted driving instruction that directly addresses the critical need for human driving improvement. How should an AI instructor convey information to promote learning? In a pre-post experiment (n = 41), we tested the impact of an AI Coach’s explanatory communications modeled after performance driving expert instructions. Participants were divided into four (4) groups to assess two (2) dimensions of the AI coach’s explanations: information type (‘what’ and ‘why’-type explanations) and presentation modality (auditory and visual). We compare how different explanatory techniques impact driving performance, cognitive load, confidence, expertise, and trust via observational learning. Through interview, we delineate participant learning processes. Results show AI coaching can effectively teach performance driving skills to novices. We find the type and modality of information influences performance outcomes. Differences in how successfully participants learned are attributed to how information directs attention, mitigates uncertainty, and influences overload experienced by participants. Results suggest efficient, modality-appropriate explanations should be opted for when designing effective HMI communications that can instruct without overwhelming. Further, results support the need to align communications with human learning and cognitive processes. We provide eight design implications for future autonomous vehicle HMI and AI coach design.
Multi-stage framework for optimal incorporating of inverter based distributed generator into distribution networks
Authors: Hamza Shrouk A. , Yousef Mariem Y. , Ali A. A. , Masry Said M. El , Mosa Magdi A.
Published: June 2024

Recently, hydrogen-based distributed generators (DG) have gained significant attention for modern energy generation systems. These modem DGs are typically outfitted with power electronics converters, resulting in harmonic pollution. Furthermore, increasing the growth of modern nonlinear loads may result in exceeding the harmonic beyond the permitted level. This research proposes a framework for optimal incorporation of inverter-based distributed generation (a fuel cell connected to an AC distribution system) for minimizing power losses, enhancing the voltage profile, and limiting both total and individual harmonic distortion according to the IEEE-519 standard. In addition, for accounting system sustainability, the proposed framework considers load variation and the expected rise in demand. Therefore, the suggested framework comprises three stages, which include fundamental and harmonic power flow analysis. The first stage identifies the optimal size and location of the DG in relation to the base load operating condition. While, with the optimal DG of the first stage, the amount of harmonic pollution may violate the limits during a high level of nonlinear load penetration, as a result, the second stage resizes the DG, considering the connection bus of the first stage, to mitigate the harmonics and optimize the system at a higher level of nonlinear load penetration. Both the first and second stages are performed off-line, while the third stage optimizes the system operation during run time according to loading conditions, harmonic pollution, and the available DG capacity of the previous stages. DG’s harmonic spectrum is represented according to recently issued IEEE 1547-2018 for permissible DG’s current distortion limits. The suggested approach is applied and evaluated using an IEEE 33-bus distribution system for various combinations of linear and nonlinear loads. For run-time operation throughout the day, the presented framework reduces the energy losses from 5.281 to 2.452 MWh/day (about 53.57% energy savings). This saving is associated with voltage profile enhancement without violating the permissible standard levels of harmonics and other system constraints.
A Siamese deep learning framework for efficient hardware Trojan detection using power side-channel data
Authors: Nasr Abdurrahman , Mohamed Khalil , Elshenawy Ayman , Zaki Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Hardware Trojans (HTs) are hidden threats embedded in the circuitry of integrated circuits (ICs), enabling unauthorized access, data theft, operational disruptions, or even physical harm. Detecting Hardware Trojans (HTD) is paramount for ensuring IC security. This paper introduces a novel Siamese neural network (SNN) framework for non-destructive HTD. The proposed framework can detect HTs by processing power side-channel signals without the need for a golden model of the IC. To obtain the best results, different neural network models such as Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) are integrated individually with SNN. These models are trained on the extracted features from the Trojan Power & EM Side-Channel dataset. The results show that the Siamese LSTM model achieved the highest accuracy of 86.78%, followed by the Siamese GRU model with 83.59% accuracy and the Siamese CNN model with 73.54% accuracy. The comparison shows that of the proposed Siamese LSTM is a promising new approach for HTD and outperform the state-of-the-art methods.
Thymoquinone attenuates diabetes-induced hepatic damage in rat via regulation of oxidative/nitrosative stress, apoptosis, and inflammatory cascade with molecular docking approach
Authors: Hafez Mona H. , Ez Elarab Samar M. , Tohamy Hossam G. , El-Far Ali H.
Published: June 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a complex metabolic condition that causes organ dysfunction. The current experiment sought to determine the effect of thymoquinone (TQ) on hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in diabetic rats prompted by streptozotocin (STZ) (55 mg/kg body weight i/p). The animals were allocated into control, TQ (50 mg/kg B.W. orally administered for 4 succeeding weeks), Diabetic, and Diabetic + TQ groups. This study confirmed that TQ preserves the levels of insulin, fasting blood glucose, HOMA β-cell indices, HbA1c %, body weight, and lipid profile substantially relative to the DC group. Furthermore, hepatic antioxidant (CAT, GSH, and T-SOD) values were reduced. Conversely, the enzymatic activity of liver functions (AST, ALT, ALP, cytochrome P450, and hepatic glucose-6-phosphatase), lipid peroxidation (MDA), pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6), nitric oxide (NO) and inflammatory marker (CRP) enhanced with STZ administration, which is substantially restored after TQ treatment. Relative to the diabetic rats, TQ reestablished the hepatic architectural changes and collagen fibers. Additionally, TQ downregulated the intensity of the immunohistochemical staining of pro-apoptotic marker (caspase-3), p53, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) proteins in hepatic tissues. Furthermore, TQ displayed abilities to interact and inhibit the binding site of caspase-3, interleukin-6 receptor, interleukin-1 receptor type 1, TNF receptor superfamily member 1A, and TNF receptor superfamily member 1B in rats following the molecular docking modeling. All these data re-establish the liver functions, antioxidant enzymes, anti-inflammatory markers, and anti-apoptotic proteins impacts of TQ in STZ-induced DM rats. Founded on these outcomes, the experiment proposes that TQ is a novel natural supplement with various clinical applications, including managing DM, which in turn is recommended to play a pivotal role in preventing the progression of diabetes mellitus.
Yttrium oxide nanoparticles ameliorates calcium hydroxide and calcium titanate nanoparticles induced genomic DNA and mitochondrial damage, ROS generation and inflammation
Authors: Mohamed Hanan R. H. , Farouk Ahmed H. , Elbasiouni Salma H. , Nasif Kirolls A. , Safwat Gehan
Published: June 2024

Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2NPs), calcium titanate (CaTiO3NPs) and yttrium oxide (Y2O3NPs) nanoparticles are prevalent in many industries, including food and medicine, but their small size raises concerns about potential cellular damage and genotoxic effects. However, there are very limited studies available on their genotoxic effects. Hence, this was done to investigate the effects of multiple administration of Ca(OH)2NPs, CaTiO3NPs or/and Y2O3NPs on genomic DNA stability, mitochondrial membrane potential integrity and inflammation induction in mouse brain tissues. Mice were orally administered Ca(OH)2NPs, CaTiO3NPs or/and Y2O3NPs at a dose level of 50 mg/kg b.w three times a week for 2 weeks. Genomic DNA integrity was studied using Comet assay and the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within brain cells was analyzed using 2,7 dichlorofluorescein diacetate dye. The expression level of Presenilin-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) genes and the integrity of the mitochondrial membrane potential were also detected. Oral administration of Ca(OH)2NPs caused the highest damage to genomic DNA and mitochondrial membrane potential, less genomic DNA and mitochondrial damage was induced by CaTiO3NPs administration while administration of Y2O3NPs did not cause any remarkable change in the integrity of genomic DNA and mitochondrial membrane potential. Highest ROS generation and upregulation of presenilin-1, TNF-α and IL-6 genes were also observed within the brain cells of mice administrated Ca(OH)2NPs but Y2O3NPs administration almost caused no changes in ROS generation and genes expression compared to the negative control. Administration of CaTiO3NPs alone slightly increased ROS generation and the expression level of TNF-α and IL-6 genes. Moreover, no remarkable changes in the integrity of genomic DNA and mitochondrial DNA potential, ROS level and the expression level of presenilin-1, TNF-α and IL-6 genes were noticed after simultaneous coadministration of Y2O3NPs with Ca(OH)2NPs and CaTiO3NPs. Coadministration of Y2O3NPs with Ca(OH)2NPs and CaTiO3NPs mitigated Ca(OH)2NPs and CaTiO3NPs induced ROS generation, genomic DNA damage and inflammation along with restoring the integrity of mitochondrial membrane potential through Y2O3NPs scavenging free radicals ability. Therefore, further studies are recommended to study the possibility of using Y2O3NPs to alleviate Ca(OH)2NPs and CaTiO3NPs induced genotoxic effects.
Neuroinflammation is dependent on sex and ovarian hormone presence following acute woodsmoke exposure
Authors: Wardhani Kartika , Yazzie Sydnee , Edeh Onamma , Grimes Martha , Dixson Connor , Jacquez Quiteria , Zychowski Katherine E.
Published: June 2024

Woodsmoke (WS) exposure is associated with significant health-related sequelae. Different populations can potentially exhibit varying susceptibility, based on endocrine phenotypes, to WS and investigating neurological impacts following inhaled WS is a growing area of research. In this study, a whole-body inhalation chamber was used to expose both male and female C57BL/6 mice (n = 8 per group) to either control filtered air (FA) or acute WS (0.861 ± 0.210 mg/m3) for 4 h/d for 2 days. Neuroinflammatory and lipid-based biological markers were then assessed. In a second set of studies, female mice were divided into two groups: one group was ovariectomized (OVX) to simulate an ovarian hormone-deficient state (surgical menopause), and the other underwent Sham surgery as controls, to mechanistically assess the impact of ovarian hormone presence on neuroinflammation following FA and acute WS exposure to simulate an acute wildfire episode. There was a statistically significant impact of sex (P ≤ 0.05) and statistically significant interactions between sex and treatment in IL-1β, CXCL-1, TGF-β, and IL-6 brain relative gene expression. Hippocampal and cortex genes also exhibited significant changes in acute WS-exposed Sham and OVX mice, particularly in TGF-β (hippocampus) and CCL-2 and CXCL-1 (cortex). Cortex GFAP optical density (OD) showed a notable elevation in male mice exposed to acute WS, compared to the control FA. Sham and OVX females demonstrated differential GFAP expression, depending on brain region. Overall, targeted lipidomics in phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) serum and brain lipids demonstrated more significant changes between control FA and acute WS exposure in female mice, compared to males. In summary, male and female mice show distinct neuroinflammatory markers in response to acute WS exposure. Furthermore, ovarian hormone deficiency may impact the neuroinflammatory response following an acute WS event.
Synergistic effect of Salvadora persica and chitosan nanoparticles against oropharyngeal microorganisms
Authors: Balto Hanan , Bekhit Mounir Salim , Auda Sayed H. , Elansary Afaf , Bhat Ramesa Shafi , Marraiki Najat , Al-Hadlaq Solaiman
Published: June 2024

Herbal medicine combined with nanoparticles has caught much interest in clinical dental practice, yet the incorporation of chitosan with Salvadora persica (S. persica) extract as an oral care product has not been explored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined effectiveness of Salvadora persica(S. persica) and Chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) against oropharyngeal microorganisms. Agar well diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimal lethal concentration assays were used to assess the antimicrobial activity of different concentrations of ethanolic extracts of S. persica and ChNPs against selected fungal strains, Gram-positive, and Gram-negative bacteria. A mixture of 10% S. persica and 0.5% ChNPs was prepared (SChNPs) and its synergistic effect against the tested microbes was evaluated. Furthermore, the strain that was considered most sensitive was subjected to a 24-h treatment with SChNPs mixture; and examined using SEM, FT-IR and GC–MS analysis. S. persica extract and ChNPs exhibited concentration-dependent antimicrobial activities against all tested strains. S. persica extract and ChNPs at 10% were most effective against S. pneumoni, K. pneumoni, and C. albicans. SEM images confirmed the synergistic effect of the SChNPs mixture, revealing S. pneumonia cells with increased irregularity and higher cell lysis compared to the individual solutions. GC–MS and FT-IR analysis of SChNPs showed many active antimicrobial phytocompounds and some additional peaks, respectively. The synergy of the mixture of SChNPs in the form of mouth-rinsing solutions can be a promising approach for the control of oropharyngeal microbes that are implicated in viral secondary bacterial infections.
Geographical adaptability for optimizing the recommendation of soybean cultivars in the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Corbellini Marcos , Bobek Daniel Vicente , de Toledo José Francisco Ferraz , Ferreira Lenio Urzeda , Santana Dthenifer Cordeiro , Gilio Thiago Alexandre Santana , Teodoro Larissa Pereira Ribeiro , Teodoro Paulo Eduardo , Tardin Flavio Dessaune
Published: June 2024

Yield multi-location trials associated to geostatistical techniques with environmental covariables can provide a better understanding of G x E interactions and, consequently, adaptation limits of soybean cultivars. Thus, the main objective of this study is understanding the environmental covariables effects on soybean adaptation, as well as predicting the adaptation of soybean under environmental variations and then recommend each soybean cultivar to favorable environments aiming maximize the average yield. The trials were carried out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replicates over three years, in 28 locations. Thirty-two genotypes (commercial and pre-commercial) representing different maturity groups (7.5–8.5) were evaluated in each trial were covering the Edaphoclimatic Region (REC) 401, 402 and 403. The covariables adopted as environmental descriptors were accumulated rainfall, minimum temperature, mean temperature, maximum temperature, photoperiod, relative humidity, soil clay content, soil water avaibility and altitude. After fitting means through Mixed Linear Model, the Regression-Kriging procedure was applied to spacialize the grain yield using environmental covariables as predictors. The covariables explained 32.54% of the GxE interaction, being the soil water avaibility the most important to the adaptation of soybean cultivars, contributing with 7.80%. Yield maps of each cultivar were obtained and, hence, the yield maximization map based on cultivar recommendation was elaborated.
The GEA pipeline for characterizing Escherichia coli and Salmonella genomes
Authors: Dickey Aaron M. , Schmidt John W. , Bono James L. , Guragain Manita
Published: June 2024

Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli are major food-borne human pathogens, and their genomes are routinely sequenced for clinical surveillance. Computational pipelines designed for analyzing pathogen genomes should both utilize the most current information from annotation databases and increase the coverage of these databases over time. We report the development of the GEA pipeline to analyze large batches of E. coli and S. enterica genomes. The GEA pipeline takes as input paired Illumina raw reads files which are then assembled followed by annotation. Alternatively, assemblies can be provided as input and directly annotated. The pipeline provides predictive genome annotations for E. coli and S. enterica with a focus on the Center for Genomic Epidemiology tools. Annotation results are provided as a tab delimited text file. The GEA pipeline is designed for large-scale E. coli and S. enterica genome assembly and characterization using the Center for Genomic Epidemiology command-line tools and high-performance computing. Large scale annotation is demonstrated by an analysis of more than 14,000 Salmonella genome assemblies. Testing the GEA pipeline on E. coli raw reads demonstrates reproducibility across multiple compute environments and computational usage is optimized on high performance computers.
Synergistic effects of boron and saponin in mitigating salinity stress to enhance sweet potato growth
Authors: Younis Uzma , Danish Subhan , Datta Rahul , Al Obaid Sami , Ansari Mohammad Javed
Published: June 2024

Salinity stress significantly hinders plant growth by disrupting osmotic balance and inhibiting nutrient uptake, leading to reduced biomass and stunted development. Using saponin (SAP) and boron (B) can effectively overcome this issue. Boron decreases salinity stress by stabilizing cell walls and membranes, regulating ion balance, activating antioxidant enzymes, and enhancing water uptake. SAP are bioactive compounds that have the potential to alleviate salinity stress by improving nutrient uptake, modulating plant hormone levels, promoting root growth, and stimulating antioxidant activity. That’s why the current study was planned to use a combination of SAP and boron as amendments to mitigate salinity stress in sweet potatoes. Four levels of SAP (0%, 0.1%, 0.15%, and 0.20%) and B (control, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L B) were applied in 4 replications following a completely randomized design. Results illustrated that 0.15% SAP with 20 mg/L B caused significant enhancement in sweet potato vine length (13.12%), vine weight (12.86%), root weight (8.31%), over control under salinity stress. A significant improvement in sweet potato chlorophyll a (9.84%), chlorophyll b (20.20%), total chlorophyll (13.94%), photosynthetic rate (17.69%), transpiration rate (16.03%), and stomatal conductance (17.59%) contrast to control under salinity stress prove the effectiveness of 0.15% SAP + 20 mg/L B treatment. In conclusion, 0.15% SAP + 20 mg/L B is recommended to mitigate salinity stress in sweet potatoes.
Associations of mixed metal exposure with chronic kidney disease from NHANES 2011–2018
Authors: Shi Xiaoru , Wang Xiao , Zhang Jia , Dang Ying , Ouyang Changping , Pan Jinhua , Yang Aimin , Hu Xiaobin
Published: June 2024

Metals have been proved to be one of risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes, but the effect of mixed metal co-exposure and potential interaction between metals are still unclear. We assessed the urine and whole blood levels of cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and renal function in 3080 adults from National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) (2011–2018) to explore the effect of mixed metal exposure on CKD especially in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Weighted quantile sum regression model and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression model were used to evaluate the overall exposure impact of metal mixture and potential interaction between metals. The results showed that the exposure to mixed metals was significantly associated with an increased risk of CKD in blood glucose stratification, with the risk of CKD being 1.58 (1.26,1.99) times in urine and 1.67 (1.19,2.34) times in whole blood higher in individuals exposed to high concentrations of the metal mixture compared to those exposed to low concentrations. The effect of urine metal mixture was elevated magnitude in stratified analysis. There were interactions between urine Pb and Cd, Pb and Mn, Pb and Hg, Cd and Mn, Cd and Hg, and blood Pb and Hg, Mn and Cd, Mn and Pb, Mn and Hg on the risk of CKD in patients with T2DM and no significant interaction between metals was observed in non-diabetics. In summary, mixed metal exposure increased the risk of CKD in patients with T2DM, and there were complex interactions between metals. More in-depth studies are needed to explore the mechanism and demonstrate the causal relationship.
Research on dust control technology and numerical simulation of conical guiding air curtain in fully mechanized excavation face
Authors: Meng Xin , Gao Qiqiang , Li Jie , Zhao Guoan
Published: June 2024

The dust pollution caused by the operation of fully mechanized heading face poses a serious threat to the safety production of operators and working face. To reduce dust concentration at the fully mechanized heading face, this study analyzed dust samples collected from various positions to understand the particle size distribution characteristics. Based on these findings, a conical diversion air conditioning (CDAC) device was designed to create a radial air curtain for dust control in the roadway cross-section. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was then employed to investigate the airflow and particle dynamics when the cone-shaped deflector was in closed and open states. The results show that in the fully mechanized heading face, the dust distribution in the working area of the roadheader driver is relatively dense, and the dust particles with particle size ≤ 8 μm account for a large proportion. When the CDAC device is deployed, the axial airflow in the roadway is changed into a rotating airflow along the roadway wall, and an air screen is established in the working area of the roadheader driver to block the outward diffusion of dust. When the pressure air outlet is arranged 30 m away from the tunneling head, the pressure air volume is set to 400 m3/min, and the CDAC device can better form the air curtain barrier to block the dust particles. It provides a new method for effectively controlling the dust concentration of the fully mechanized heading face and directly ensuring the health of the roadheader driver.
Sociodemographic predictors of parenting stress among mothers in socio-economically deprived settings in rural and urban Kenya and Zambia
Authors: Okelo Kenneth Odhiambo , Kitsao-Wekulo Patricia , Onyango Silas , Wambui Elizabeth , Hardie Iain , King Josiah , Murray Aja Louise , Auyeung Bonnie
Published: June 2024

Parental stress occurs when parenting demands exceed the resources available to cope with parenting. Previous research has identified household wealth, educational level, marital status, age, and number of dependent children as predictors of parental stress. However, limited evidence exists from sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigated the sociodemographic predictors of parenting stress among mothers in Kenya and Zambia. This cross-sectional study utilised baseline secondary data from parenting intervention programs implemented in Kisumu County (rural Kenya), Nairobi County (Urban Kenya), and Chisamba District (rural Zambia). Out of 913 caregivers recruited for the parenting program, 844 with complete data were included in the analysis. The mean age was 1.0 (SD = 0.7) years. Parental stress was measured using the Parental Stress Score (PSS) tool and demographic questionnaires were used to collect demographic information. Mean PSS were compared across study sites, and a multiple linear regression model was used to examine associations between sociodemographic predictors (household income, educational level, marital status, maternal age, child age, and number of children aged < 5 years) and PSS, adjusting for clustering and other predictors. From the results, the mean PSS in rural Kenya was 37.6 [SD = 11.8], in urban Kenya was 48.4 [SD = 4.2], and in rural Zambia was 43.0 [SD = 9.1]. In addition, the significant association between PSS and mothers’ income and educational level was only observed in Kenyan study sites (income: Kenya rural β = -0.40, p < 0.001**; Kenya urban, β = − 0.33, p = .02*; Zambia rural, β = − 0.01, p = 0.7) education: Kenya rural, β = − 0.25, p = .005**; Kenya urban, β = − 0.14, p = 0.07; Zambia rural, β = 0.04, p = 0.3). However, marital status, mother’s age, child’s age, and the number of children below five years were not associated with PSS. The results revealed that mothers’ income and education level were negatively associated with PSS, indicating that higher socioeconomic status can buffer the effects of parental stress.

Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/) database (ID Number: PACTR20180774832663 Date: 26/July/2018; (ID number: PACTR201905787868050 Date: 06/May/2019.
Fast connectivity gradient approximation: maintaining spatially fine-grained connectivity gradients while reducing computational costs
Authors: Nenning Karl-Heinz , Xu Ting , Tambini Arielle , Franco Alexandre R. , Margulies Daniel S. , Colcombe Stanley J. , Milham Michael P.
Published: June 2024

Brain connectome analysis suffers from the high dimensionality of connectivity data, often forcing a reduced representation of the brain at a lower spatial resolution or parcellation. This is particularly true for graph-based representations, which are increasingly used to characterize connectivity gradients, capturing patterns of systematic spatial variation in the functional connectivity structure. However, maintaining a high spatial resolution is crucial for enabling fine-grained topographical analysis and preserving subtle individual differences that might otherwise be lost. Here we introduce a computationally efficient approach to establish spatially fine-grained connectivity gradients. At its core, it leverages a set of landmarks to approximate the underlying connectivity structure at the full spatial resolution without requiring a full-scale vertex-by-vertex connectivity matrix. We show that this approach reduces computational time and memory usage while preserving informative individual features and demonstrate its application in improving brain-behavior predictions. Overall, its efficiency can remove computational barriers and enable the widespread application of connectivity gradients to capture spatial signatures of the connectome. Importantly, maintaining a spatially fine-grained resolution facilitates to characterize the spatial transitions inherent in the core concept of gradients of brain organization.
Synergistic combination of different types of functional motif in Rb(NO3)(SO3NH3) for realizing excellent ultraviolet optical nonlinearity
Authors: Song Yunxia , Lin Chensheng , Zhao Xin , Yan Tao , Ye Ning , Tian Haotian , Luo Min
Published: June 2024

By combining the π-conjugated [NO3] unit with the non-π-conjugated [SO3NH3] unit, a promising ultraviolet nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal RbNO3SO3NH3 with excellent comprehensive performance was successfully obtained.
Mapping and research analysis on freshwater fish vaccines in Indonesia of the last decade (2013-2023), in reference to Streptococcus sp.
Authors: Putri Annisa Wening Maharani , Kurnianingtyas Frederika Niken , Hidayah Elmi , Satriyanto Budi , Syahidah Dewi
Published: June 2024

Streptococcosis caused by Streptococcus sp. in freshwater fish in Indonesia leads to serious diseases, massive fish mortality, and significant economic losses. A preventive measure through fish vaccination can help to stop the spread of Streptococcosis. This study conducted research mapping and clustering on vaccines for Streptococcus sp. in freshwater fish in Indonesia (VSFI) over the last decade. The aim was to identify trends in the research and recommend future research topics. Relevant documents from 2013-2023 were retrieved using Scopus, Semantic Scholar, and Google Scholar search engines in July 2023, resulting in 61 docs, which then declined to 31 docs after final refinement. The metadata was organized using Mendeley before being submitted to VOSviewer software (Vv). An Open Knowledge Map (OKM) was used to plot the VSFI research clusters. Vv showed eight clusters, while OKM showed five. Both analyses suggest that future research can be directed toward candidate vaccines against Streptococcosis, especially which is caused by S. agalactiae. Nile tilapia was the most used fish in the related research. The results of this study could assist other scientists in identifying research clusters and expanding their investigation into fish vaccine development against Streptococcus sp.
Evaluation of pearl oyster (Pinctada maxima) spawning using natural and artificial induction methods to increase the seed production
Authors: Utami Diah Ayu Satyari , Nisa Putri Inda Hayatun , Nisa Andina Chairun , Ilham  , Abrori Mohsan , Sudiarsa I Nyoman , Kusmiatun Anik , Kiswanto Arie
Published: June 2024

The increasing pearl jewelries production leads to an increasing demand for pearl oyster (Pinctada maxima) seeds of certain sizes. The induction spawning method is an important factor in producing pearl oyster seeds. This study aimed to evaluate natural and artificial induction methods for pearl oyster spawning using wild and farmed broodstocks to determine efficient seed production. Treatments applied were natural spawning induction of wild and farmed broodstocks (A), natural spawning induction of farmed broodstocks (B), and artificial induction of farmed broodstocks (C). After spawning completed, reproductive performances of the pearls for each treatment were observed with parameters of total number of eggs, number of hatching eggs, and the hatching rate. Pearl oyster seeds were reared for 43 days and fed twice a day with a mixture of phytoplankton. At the rearing stage, we observed the morphology, number, size, and survival of larvae. Natural spawning induction with wild male and farmed female broodstocks showed the highest total number of eggs (32,000,000 eggs) and the highest hatching rate (25%) compared to natural induction and artificial induction with all farmed broodstocks. However, natural spawning induction of wild male and farmed female broodstocks showed higher survival and normal seed growth to the spat stage compared to other spawning induction methods.
Feed intake assessment on sub-adult spiny lobster Panulirus homarus fed a range of pellet and fresh feeds under a variety of feeding regimes
Authors: Giri I Nyoman Adiasmara , Sudewi  , Selamet Bejo , Irvin Simon , Haryanti  , Jones Clive
Published: June 2024

Low feed intake has been considered a major problem in applying formulated feed for grow-out of spiny lobster (Panulirus homarus). This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of fishery hydrolysate in feed formulation and the co-feeding of formulated feed with fresh food on the feed intake of spiny lobster. Five experiments of feed intake assessment were conducted using either different sources (tuna, crustacean and mussel) or levels (0%, 1%, 2% and 3%) of hydrolysates, and experiments on different feeding schemes where lobsters fed either only formulated feed or formulated feed and fresh food. Each experiment was performed for 2 weeks using 16 fiberglass tanks (300 L) filled with seawater and each experiment has 4 treatments with 4 replicates. The experiment showed that including fish hydrolysate 2%, crustacean hydrolysate 1% (dry) or 2% (liquid), or 2 % tuna hydrolysate in feed increased the feed intake of spiny lobster. Feed intake of formulated feed decreased when they fed in combination with mixed fresh food. Feed intake of lobster fed mixed fresh food was lower than that fed either mussel or crab only, and lobster fed only fish exhibited the lowest feed intake.
Types of fishing gear in Salah Nama Island, Musi River South Sumatra
Authors: Sudarmo Agnes Puspitasari , Dwirastina Mirna , Ditya Yoga Candra
Published: June 2024

The estuary of Musi River and the swamps at Salah Nama Island are fishing areas for local fishers from Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatra. The fishers are well adapted to fish habitat complexities and fish biodiversity by operating various types of fishing gear. Description of fishing gear is a type of information needed for fisheries management. This study aims to make an inventory of fishing gear operated by the local fishers and assess the conformity of the fishing gear with existing regulations. Field surveys and interviews were carried out from March to May 2023 involving fishers around the island. As expected, their catches were dominated by estuarine fishes. This study identified three categories of fishing gear, namely traps (sengkirai, traps for shrimps), gillnets (seluang nets, driftnets, tangkul, and cast nets), and hooks in the form of longlines. The specifications of all fishing gear complied with the existing regulations.
Influence of harvest time on carotenoids content of brown seaweed (Padina sp. and Sargassum sp.) infused oil
Authors: Wahyuni Tuti , Laksono Hendrawan , Soraya Maya , Perwatasari Dayu Dian , Hidayat Taufik , Murdinah
Published: June 2024

Brown seaweeds (Padina sp. and Sargassum sp.) - infused oil is a seaweed extract product, that uses an edible oil (virgin coconut oil) as a solvent using the maceration method. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of harvest time of brown seaweed in the rainy and dry seasons on the carotenoid content of the seaweed-infused oil. The measurement of carotenoid content as β-carotenes in seaweed-infused oil has been done using the UV-visible spectrophotometer. Padina sp. and Sargassum sp. that grow in the dry season produced seaweed-infused oil with β-carotenes of 8.54±1.20 µg/ml and 96.48±26.90 µg/ml, and those vegetate in the rainy season 163.79±37.56 µg/ml and 350.88±32.89 µg/ml, respectively. Seaweed-infused oil contains higher carotenoid pigments from brown seaweed that harvested in the rainy than those in the dry season which they grow naturally throughout the years.
SHARKlock holmes: Applications of DNA forensic in tackling illegal trade of sharks and rays in Southeast Asia Region
Authors: Prasetyo Andhika P. , Kurniawan  , Muslimin Boby , Purwoko Rudy Masuswo , Rahardjo Budi , Anwar Nurmila , Solihin Deden , Yuliandini Tri , Sudarisman Risris , Endratmo Edo , Hadi Sarminto
Published: June 2024

Globally, the market demand for fins, uncontrolled bycatch, and illegal fishing are all contributing to the sharp decline in shark and ray populations. Within two decades (2002–2021), ASEAN countries provided 19.4% of 15.06 million tons (2.9 million tons) of elasmobranch species landings, with Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand dominating. Moreover, ASEAN product variety, taxonomic uncertainty, and trade complexity make endangered species trade control challenging. The existence of legally protected and endangered elasmobranch species in the Asian market has been the subject of multiple investigations, which has brought attention to the inadequacies of present management and conservation strategies. The development of DNA-based methods for identifying elasmobranchs and present new approaches to combat the problem of illegal shark and ray fin trafficking, such as high-throughput sequencing (HTS) as an alternative to conventional DNA barcoding. Enhancing trade monitoring could provide persistent benefits for shark and ray resources in Southeast Asian ecosystems and populations, while also promoting a legal, sustainable, and traceable trade.
Multi-objective analysis of performance in mileage based on the minimization of several vehicle polluting features
Authors: Vanegas Gloria , Samaniego Franklin , Basantes Marlon , Lizarzaburu Annabelle
Published: June 2024

This paper analyses the fuel consumption and emissions of and from various kinds of automobiles. The aim is to identify the set of automobiles models that produce the least pollution and provide the higher mileage. To complete the analysis, a multi-objective optimization problem (MOP) has been proposed with a visual representation methodology of the Pareto front (Level Diagram); in this way, it has been determined that the highest compromise values corresponding to the utopian point determine a mileage performance of 16.30 [km/l]. Finally, it is important to highlight that the MOP has facilitated the analysis process, which helps the Decision Maker (DM) in the adequate selection of the final solution, based on the available knowledge of the set of optimal solutions.
Proposals for revitalizing urban post-industrial areas: A case study of a French town
Authors: Merylova Iryna , Zinkevych Oksana , Bordun Maryna , Zinkevych Andrii , Rabenseifer Roman
Published: June 2024

The article aims to investigate the current state and identify potential development pathways for the small industrial town of Lavaveixles-Mines in the Creuse Department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, France. The purpose of this study is to develop and propose architectural and urban planning measures and initiatives for the restoration and reactivation of post-industrial areas using the case of the researched city. The methodology used in this research is based on an interdisciplinary approach that combines architecture, urban planning, urbanism, history, sociology, economics, and ecology. This has contributed to the development of innovative solutions aimed at revitalizing outdated industrial territories while preserving their unique identity. As a result, the most effective concept for architectural and urban planning transformation of the city was found and some specific methods and techniques presented in this study were developed.