bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Group Optimization Algorithm with Dynamic Disturbance Strategy
Authors: Wang Ye , Lin Yisen , Qu Huichen , Wang Ruyue
Published: May 2023

In order to improve the convergence accuracy and speed of social group optimization algorithm, so as to improve the overall performance of the algorithm, a social group optimization algorithm with dynamic disturbance strategy( DDSGO) is proposed. The proposed algorithm improved the initialization population and the two learning stages in the SGO algorithm respectively. When initializing the population, the DDSGO algorithm replaces the initial population generated randomly with a reverse learning strategy to ensure that the diversity of the population is improved; In the improvement stage, the dynamic self-reflection coefficient is used to expand the search range of the optimal solution in the initial stage, and accelerate the speed of the population convergence to the optimal solution in the later stage, so that the population as a whole can quickly converge to the optimal solution. In the acquisition stage, the tent mapping is used to generate chaotic disturbance to increase the diversity of the population, which can increase the possibility of the algorithm jumping out of the local optimal solution. The experimental results based on the standard test function show that the proposed DDSGO algorithm is significantly improved in terms of convergence speed, convergence accuracy and stability compared with the comparison algorithms, and the overall performance of the algorithm is improved. The DDSGO algorithm has been used to solve the pressure vessel design optimization problem in order to further verify the effectiveness of the DDSGO algorithm. The experimental results show that the DDSGO algorithm is superior to the comparison algorithms, which proves that the DDSGO algorithm can be used to optimize the actual engineering design optimization problem.
Unveiling the Sweetness: Evaluating Yield and Quality Attributes of Early Generation Sweet Corn (Zea mays L.var. saccharata) Inbred Lines through Morphological, Biochemical and Marker-based Approaches.
Authors: Usman Shah Mohammad , Shikari Asif Bashir , Bhat Muhammad Ashraf , Wani Shabir Hussain , Yousuf Nida , Waza Showkat Ahmad , Khan Raheel Shafeeq , Shazia F , Sheikh Faroq Ahmad
Published: May 2023

Background Sweet corn is gaining tremendous demand worldwide due to urbanization and changing consumer preferences. However, genetic improvement in this crop is limited due to narrow genetic base and other undesirable agronomic traits that hinders the development of superior sweet corn genotypes.Methods A study was undertaken to carry out morphological and biochemical evaluation of 80 early generation inbred lines (S2) of sweet corn that were developed from a cross between two sweet corn hybrids (Mithas and Sugar-75) at Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops, Khudwani, SKUAST Kashmir during Kharif 2020. Furthermore, validation for favourable recessive alleles for sugar content was also done using SSR markers. The 80 sweet corn inbreds evaluated for phenotypic characterization showed wide range of variability with respect to different traits studied. The highest content of total carotenoids was found in the inbred S27 (34µgg− 1) followed by the inbred S65 (31.1µgg− 1). The highest sugar content was found in the S60 (8.54%) followed by the S14 (8.34%). Comparing the results of scatter plot for biochemical traits with morphological traits, it was revealed that inbreds S9, S23, S27 and S36 contains high levels of total sugars and total carotenoids along with moderate values for yield contributing traits indicating that these inbred lines could be utilized as source of favourable alleles in sweet corn breeding programmes after further validation for yield attributes, disease resistance and other preferable agronomic traits.Conclusion The results of the present study, has identified several inbreds harbouring desirable biochemical and agro morphological attributes related to high yield. Consequently, the study will not only enhance the genetic base of sweet corn germplasm but will also lead to development of high-yielding hybrids with improved quality. Molecular characterization of 60 inbred lines led to the identification of seven inbreds viz., S21, S28, S47, S48, S49, S53, and S54, which were sugary at both the loci (umc2061 and bnlg1937) and were also found to possess high sugar content through biochemical analysis, indicating their potential as desirable candidates for breeding programs aimed at improving sweet corn yield and quality. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of these molecular markers in facilitating marker-assisted selection for important traits in sweet corn breeding.
Pharmacogenetic and clinical predictors of voriconazole concentration in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients receiving CYP2C19-guided dosing
Authors: Robinson Myra , Morris Sarah , Jandrisevits Elizabeth , Lopes Karine , Hamilton Alicia , Steuerwald Nury , Druhan Lawrence , Avalos Belinda , Copelan Edward , Ghosh Nilanjan , Grunwald Michael , Patel Jai
Published: May 2023

CYP2C19-guided voriconazole dosing reduces pharmacokinetic variability, but many patients remain subtherapeutic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of candidate genes and a novel CYP2C haplotype on voriconazole trough concentrations in patients receiving CYP2C19-guided dosing. This is a retrospective candidate gene study in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) patients receiving CYP2C19-guided voriconazole dosing. Patients were genotyped for ABCB1, ABCG2, CYP2C9, CYP3A4, CYP3A5, and the CYP2C haplotype were genotyped. Of 185 patients, 36% were subtherapeutic (of which 79% were normal or intermediate metabolizers). In all patients, CYP2C19 (p < 0.001), age (p = 0.018), and letermovir use (p = 0.001) were associated with voriconazole concentrations. In the subset receiving 200 mg daily (non-RM/UMs), CYP2C19 (p = 0.004) and ABCG2 (p = 0.015) were associated with voriconazole concentrations; CYP2C19 (p = 0.028) and letermovir use (p = 0.001) were associated with subtherapeutic status. CYP2C19, ABCG2, age, and letermovir use were associated with voriconazole concentrations and may be used to improve voriconazole precision dosing.
Systematic Photophysical Interaction Studies Between Newly Synthesised Oxazole Derivatives and Silver Nanoparticles: Experimental and DFT Approach
Authors: Mannopantar Santosh R , Patil V. S. , Prabhala Pavankumar , Lalasangi A. S. , Kalasad M. N. , Kulkarni Vijay. K.
Published: May 2023

In this study, the photophysical properties of oxazole derivatives such as 5-(furan-2-yl) -4-tosyloxazole (OX-1) and 5-(2-bromothiazol-4-yl)-4-tosyloxazoles (OX-2) were investigated using theoretical and experimental techniques. The ground and excited state dipole moments were empirically obtained utilising the solvatochromic shift technique and several solvatochromic correlations such as Lippert's, Bakhshiev's, KawskiChamma- Viallet's, and solvent polarity equations. The ground state dipole moments, HOMO-LUMO and molecule electrostatic potential map were also computed using ab initio calculations and evaluated using Gaussian 09 W software. Furthermore, spectroscopic interactions between newly synthesised dyes (OX-1 and OX-2) and freshly synthesised silver nanoparticles (size 40 nm) were studied. Increased absorbance and widening of absorption spectra for both dyes in the presence of varied quantities of silver nanoparticles show the potential of dye-nanoparticle interactions. Fluorescence quenching has been detected for both dyes in the presence of colloidal silver nanoparticles, indicating dynamic quenching, and a significant overlap between the absorption and emission spectra of the silver nanoparticle reveals that fluorescence quenching is also due to energy transfer.
Psychometric properties of the RED-Technostress questionnaire in Peruvian workers
Authors: Shimabukuro-Lara Jose , Ayala-Napan Roberto , Neyra-Ruiz Natalia , Nuñez-Mendoza Jiro , Quispe-Linares Rodrigo , Reyes-Perez Moises , Facho-Cornejo Jhoselit , Gomez-Fuertes Alberto , Álvarez-Huari María , Piedra Dina Calonge-De la
Published: May 2023

Background
Technostress is defined as the restlessness, fear, tension and anxiety that arises when learning and using technologies related to the use of the computer, directly or indirectly, and that, in the last place, ends with a psychological and emotional rejection that prevents continue to learn or use such technologies. This research aimed to adapt to the Peruvian context and evaluate the psychometric properties of the RED- technostress questionnaire, to demonstrate the validity and reliability of this instrument within the implementation in Peruvian organizations.
Methods and measures
258 workers participated online, mainly from the Lima-Peru region, who were working at the time of answering the questionnaire, removing those cases that showed univariate atypical influences.
Results
Content-based validity evidence was obtained; based on internal structure, through confirmatory factor analysis, obtaining acceptable goodness-of-fit indices with a second proposed model, removing three elements; and based on relation to other constructs. Likewise, acceptable reliability values ​​were found for the second model.
Conclusion
The RED- technostress questionnaire is valid and reliable to apply in the Peruvian context and it is recommended to use the model proposed in this research.
Modeling Roadway Temperatures for Wildfire Evacuation and Assessment of Pavement Damage
Authors: Barzegar Mohammadreza , Wen Haifang
Published: May 2023

Wildfires can cause enormous loss of assets and human lives, and thus, timely evacuation from the wildfire zone is critical to saving lives. Understanding evacuation route conditions, including traffic and temperature data, is imperative for safe evacuation. This study modeled the temperature conditions of an evacuation roadway within a wildfire zone, using the 2018 Camp Fire in Butte County, California as an experiment. The numerical modeling program, FlamMap, was used in this study to analyze the temperature conditions of an evacuation route. The results show that the temperature of the evacuation roadway increased quickly in a matter of a few hours. The change of roadways temperatures ranged from 3⁰C to 297⁰C within five hours after ignition, depending on the specific location along the roadway and other conditions. The results from this study can be used to understand temperature conditions for effective evacuation and to estimate roadway damage as well.
The synergic impacts of salt mixture and frost damage on rock decay: implications for the deterioration of rock-hewn heritages
Authors: Wang Yinghong , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2023

Soluble salt and freeze-thaw are two significant weathering factors inducing deterioration in rock-hewn heritages. While much research has focused on the influences of salt weathering and freeze-thaw separately, a realistic scenario reveals that the two processes often coincide in nature, making rock's decay process more complex and faster. We investigate how the synergic impact of salt weathering and freeze-thaw affect the severity of deterioration on rock-hewn heritage using materials and climatic conditions informed by rock-hewn heritage sites in SE China. The experiment was carried out on five types of stones sampled from the area of or close to the World Heritage Site, the West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou (WLCL), China. Samples were subject to 25 ageing cycles that comprised three phases: salt impregnation phase in 20℃/3hrs + freezing phase in -10℃/15hrs + evaporation phase in 50℃/6hrs). The mixture of Na2SO4-MgSO4 was utilised as the contamination substance based on the salt content determination of the stone heritage in the WLCL. Deterioration patterns, dimensional changes, pore structure and physic-mechanical properties, including surface hardness and splitting tensile strength, were determined. Results showed that the significant porous stone (porosity > 5%) with a higher proportion of micropores, e.g. flint, was more susceptible to the salt mixture, demonstrating pronounced surface detachment, deformation and strength decline. Dolomitic-rich carbonate stone with low porosity also shows deterioration, though their dimensional expansion and decline in mechanical properties are relatively minor. Most rock specimens' pore size distribution shifts to a higher magnitude, causing an enlargement in their average pore radius and an increase in mesopores. The relatively compact dolomitic limestone specimens developed new pores with a mean pore diameter of 6.5nm. This suggests that combining the two weathering factors would damage the appearance and nature of rock-hewn heritage by reshaping pore structure, weakening the cohesion between grains and consequently damaging the rock's initial fabric and strength.
Balance Disorders and Pain: An Analysis Based on the 2003-2004 NHANES Survey After Propensity Score Matching.
Authors: Tu Xiaoxian , Hu Feng , Tu Zhiyuan , Zhang Wenming , wu zhe
Published: May 2023

Purpose
Using a statistical approach to causal inference, to test the association between balance disorders and pain, providing a higher level of evidence.
Methods
Analysis of the Prevalence of Balance Disorders and Pain Based on NHANES Data To analyze the difference between the prevalence of pain in the balance disorder population and the balance population, logistic analysis was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) of the effect of balance disorder on pain. Differences between groups and odds ratios were then calculated after propensity score matching of the two groups according to demographic characteristics.
Results
The weighted prevalence of balance disorders was 26.09%, and the weighted prevalence of pain, neck pain, and low back pain was 48.25%, 22.63%, and 39.22%, respectively. The prevalence of pain, neck pain, and low back pain was higher in the pre- and post-matched pain disorder group than in the balanced group(Before PSM, pain, 605(71.94%) VS 1070(48.09%), 95%CI ,20.17–27.53%. After PSM, pain, 605(71.94%) VS 409(48.63%), 95%CI, 18.76–27.85%). Multifactorial logistic regression, controlling for other variables, showing pain odds ratios associated with balance disorders (Before PSM, OR, 2.61, 95%CI, 2.192 to 3.110, p < 0.001. After PSM, OR, 2.747, 95%CI, 2.240 to 3.370, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
In the U.S. adult population over the age of 40, those with balance disorders had more pain, neck pain, and low back pain than those without balance disorders; there is a strong association between balance problems and pain. Balance is a risk factor for pain.
Kinetics of COVID-19 mRNA primary and booster vaccine-associated neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern in long-term care facility residents: A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Kakugawa Tomoyuki , Doi Keiko , Ohteru Yuichi , Kakugawa Hiroyuki , Oishi Keiji , Kakugawa Masahiro , Hirano Tsunahiko , Mimura Yusuke , Matsunaga Kazuto
Published: May 2023

Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains a threat to vulnerable populations such as long-term care facility (LTCF) residents, who are often older, severely frail, and have multiple comorbidities. Although associations have been investigated between COVID-19 mRNA vaccine immunogenicity, durability, and response to booster vaccination and chronological age, data on the association of clinical factors such as performance status, nutritional status, and underlying comorbidities other than chronological age are limited. Here, we evaluated anti-spike IgG and neutralizing activity against the wild-type virus and Delta and Omicron variants in the sera of LTCFs residents, outpatients, and healthcare workers before the primary vaccination, at 8, 12, and 24 weeks after the primary vaccination, and approximately 3 months after the booster vaccination. This 48-week prospective longitudinal study was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (Trial ID: UMIN000043558).
Results
Of 114 infection-naïve participants (64 LTCF residents, 29 outpatients, and 21 healthcare workers), LTCF residents had substantially lower anti-spike IgG levels and neutralizing activity against the wild-type virus and Delta variant than outpatients and healthcare workers over 24 weeks after the primary vaccination. In LTCF residents, booster vaccination elicited neutralizing activity against the wild-type virus and Delta variants comparable to that of outpatients, whereas neutralizing activity against the Omicron variants was comparable to that of outpatients and healthcare workers. Multiple regression analyses showed that age was negatively correlated with anti-spike IgG levels, neutralizing activity against the wild-type virus, and Delta variant after the primary vaccination. However, multivariate regression analysis revealed that poor performance status and hypoalbuminemia were more strongly associated with a lower humoral immune response than age, number of comorbidities, or sex after primary vaccination. In contrast, booster vaccination counteracted the negative effects of poor performance status and hypoalbuminemia on humoral immune response.
Conclusions
LTCF residents exhibited suboptimal immune responses following primary vaccination. Although older age is significantly associated with a lower humoral immune response, poor performance status and hypoalbuminemia are more strongly associated with a lower humoral immune response after primary vaccination. Thus, booster vaccination is beneficial for older adults, especially those with a poor performance status and hypoalbuminemia.
Effects of grazer density, season and landcover on bird guilds in a restored conservation area
Authors: Lovász Lilla , Korner-Nievergelt Fränzi , Amrhein Valentin
Published: May 2023

Context Grazing by large herbivores is an increasingly used management tool in European nature reserves. A challenge in grassland conservation is to maintain both the openness and the heterogeneity of the habitat, to support their animal communities, including birds. Horses and cattle are often used to create and maintain patchy landscapes, especially in rewilding projects, but the influence of grazers on birds is often debated by conservationists.Objectives We studied how the abundance and species richness of birds of four foraging guilds are related to the area use of Highland cattle and Konik horses in an alluvial grassland. We also investigated how season and landcover influences the spatial distribution of individuals and species of different bird guilds on the grazed area.Methods We equipped all grazers with GPS-collars to assess the density of their hourly positions. We made weekly transect counts of birds to describe their distribution, and carried out landcover surveys to describe the habitat. We used GAMM models in a spatially explicit framework.Results Open-area foraging birds were clearly associated with higher grazer densities, and aerial, wetland and woodland birds also seemed to profit from low-intensity year-round grazing. Most bird species and individuals were observed on open landscapes scattered with woody patches and waterbodies, and at areas with moderate grazer density. The number of birds on the grazed area was about twice as on the ungrazed control area.Conclusions A heterogenous landscape maintained by low-intensity grazing seems to fulfil the needs of birds with different feeding ecologies.
In silico studies of N-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-4-(3-chloropyridin-2-yl) piperazine-1-carboxamide derivatives as potent TRPV1 antagonists using 3D QSAR, ADMET and Molecular Docking
Authors: TOUGHZAOUI Abdelilah , CHEDADI oussama , AISSOUQ Abdellah EL , Ouardi youssef El , BOUACHRINE Mohammed , OUAMMOU Abdelkrim , MORADI kamal
Published: May 2023

TRPV1 is a promising therapeutic target given its involvement in pain management and inflammation. TRPV1 antagonists are increasingly sought after for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties with fewer side effects. This study focused on the design of new effective TRPV1 antagonists by replacing the pyridine ring of BCTC with a pyrimidine ring. Significant 3D-QSAR models were developed using CoMSIA and CoMFA methods and showed a satisfactory correlation between experimental and predicted activity (Q2 = 0.715; R2 = 0.988; SEE = 0.048). Electrostatic, hydrophobic fields and hydrogen bond acceptors contributed significantly to the biological activity of studied compounds. Molecular docking analysis validated the 3D-QSAR models and explained the interactions of the most active ligands with the binding site. These results permitted prediction of new compounds, whose pharmacokinetic properties, toxicity and pharmacodynamics effects were assessed using ADMET and drug similarity.
Adolescents hospitalized in an acute psychiatric ward: a retrospective comparison between the pre-Covid-19 and pandemic periods
Authors: lorenzo rosaria di , Cutino Anna , Morgante Martina , Panini Giulia , Rovesti Sergio , Filippini Tommaso , Ferri Paola
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND. Covid-19 pandemic has negatively impacted child and adolescent mental health. The primary outcome of this study was the evaluation of Covid-19 impact on minors’ hospitalizations in an acute psychiatric ward. METHOD. With an observational and retrospective design, we collected selected variables among adolescents hospitalized in an acute psychiatric ward from 01/07/2017 to 30/06/2022. Data were statistically processed. RESULTS. Our sample was composed of 118 minors with an average age of 15.7 ± 1.2 SD, mostly represented by females (61%) and Italians (60.2%), who had 204 hospitalizations. The number of admissions by years drastically decreased in 2020 concomitantly with Covid19 lockdown and increased in the first half of 2022. Admission rates were higher in winter and spring, except in 2020 when admissions decreased (p = 0.000). In our sample, females more frequently had suicidal behaviour and acute anxiety (p = 0.000) at admissions and more often were discharged with acute stress reactions, eating disorders and mood disorder diagnoses. Differently, males were more frequently hospitalized for aggressive behaviour (p = 0.000) and were more often discharged with ADHD diagnosis (p = 0.000). At multiple linear regression, the duration of hospitalization (dependent variable) was negatively associated with “pandemic period” (p = 0.017) and “absent aggressive behaviour” (p = 0.003), and positively with “autism” diagnosis (p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS. We highlighted the more stressful impact of Covid-19 pandemic on female adolescents, who required more psychiatric hospitalizations, in particular for suicidal behaviour, anxiety and mood disorders.
Optimized ANN-based Approach for Estimation of Shear Strength of Soil
Authors: RABBANI AHSAN , SAMUI PIJUSH , KUMARI SUNITA
Published: May 2023

The shear strength of the soil (SSS) is a significant attribute which is employed most frequently throughout the design phase of construction projects. The conventional approach of determining shear strength (SS) in the laboratory is one which is costlier as well as time taken process. The ability to precisely predict the SSS without the need for laborious and expensive testing in a laboratory is just one of the real-world needs of geotechnical professionals. In this paper an attempt has been made to develop a common methodology for predicting the SSS using optimized models. For this purpose, three additional optimized algorithms (GA, MPA, and PSO) were utilized to improve the bias and weight of the ANN's learning parameters, and three optimized ANNs (ANN-GA, ANN-MPA, and ANN-PSO) were developed. Validation of all the developed optimized models was executed using RMSE, R2, RSR, WI, and NSE, indices. After validation of optimized models it was found that out of three ANN-GA produces good modelling outcome in training as well as in testing phase and outperforming other models. It has been shown that the GA develops the most trustworthy ANN, and this was also validated by the rank analysis of developed models. When trying to predict SSS, it has been shown that the liquidity index (LI) is the key factor to take into consideration. This was determined by plotting the feature significance plot along with the feature selection plot. Following the LI, the water content (wc)) is the second most important input variable that has an effect on the value of the parameter of interest being investigated in the present investigation. In a broad sense, it was found that the factors associated to water were the primary characteristics that impact the prediction of SSS.
A Conceptual Framework on the Role of Backward Integration in Sustainable Access to Malaria Intervention Commodities in Nigeria
Authors: MOKUOLU Olugbenga Ayodeji , IDACHABA Innocent Odekina , BABATUNDE Musibau Adetunji , SULEIMAN Kafayat Oluwafunke , MOKUOLU Toluwani Ayobami , LAWAL Lukman , OSOFISAN Adenike Oyinlola
Published: May 2023

Background: Over the last two decades, global stakeholders and the Nigerian government have invested approximately $2 billion in malaria control, reducing parasite prevalence to 23% from 42% in 2010. However, there is a risk that the modest gains will be reversed due to unmet resource gaps. Backward integration is presented in this paper as a viable option for sustainable funding of malaria intervention commodities in Nigeria.
Methods: Following a critical appraisal of the resource profile and malaria expenditure, a conceptual framework on backward integration as a means of ensuring long-term supply of malaria intervention commodities was developed. The study analyzed secondary annual data from the National Malaria Elimination Programme to estimate commodity needs for the period 2018-2020, as well as total resources committed and the financial gap.
Findings: The funds needed to implement national malaria interventions from 2018 to 2020 totaled US$ 1,122,332,318, of which US$ 531,228,984 (47.3%) were funded. The Nigerian government contributed 2.5%, the Global Fund (26.7%), the President's Malaria Initiative [PMI] (16.5%), and the Department for International Development [DFID] (6.2%). The funding shortfall was $591,103,335, or 52.7% of the needs. Various funding scenarios were evaluated for their relative merits and limitations, including advocacy for more external funding, bank borrowing, increased domestic resources, and backward integration.
Interpretation: The study concluded that backward integration should be used, based on a government-led public-private partnership that will increase local production of malaria intervention commodities that are accessible and affordable through market-based demand and supply arrangements.
Hybrid Collaborative Intrusion Detection System Based on Blockchain & Machine Learning
Authors: Jemili Farah , Korbaa Ouajdi
Published: May 2023

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) have traditionally been designed with a centralized structure, where a single device is responsible for monitoring the entire network. However, with the increasing complexity and scale of modern networks, this approach has become less effective. Centralized IDS can suffer from performance issues, limited scalability, and vulnerability to targeted attacks. To address these limitations, there is a growing need to develop collaborative IDS that can distribute the workload across multiple devices and better handle large-scale networks. Collaboration enables IDS to detect intrusions more effectively by combining and analyzing data from multiple sources. The adoption of blockchain technology is essential in achieving a collaborative IDS. Blockchain provides a secure, decentralized way to store and exchange information between different devices, which is critical for building trust and ensuring the integrity of the system. Furthermore, machine learning algorithms can be used to improve the performance of IDS by detecting new and emerging threats. Machine learning can help to identify patterns and anomalies in network traffic, enabling the system to detect and respond to attacks more effectively. By combining these approaches, a reliable and scalable detection system can be developed. The collaborative IDS using blockchain technology and machine learning algorithms can improve the accuracy and efficiency of detecting network intrusions while maintaining the security and integrity of the system.
Employability skills of alumni students: requirements and expectancies
Authors: Utkirov Abbos
Published: May 2023

Purpose – The aim of this study is to explore the views of young and experienced professionals in Uzbekistan and their relevance to labour market requirements in order to improve employment.
Design/methodology/approach – The data was collected using a quantitative approach; online semi-structured questionnaire was disseminated to 607 WIUT alumni students applying a Likert Scale question.
Findings – The results indicate that WIUT library program is current and well-planned. However, the activities do not fully meet the needs of young and experienced graduates. Shortage of staff impacted on applying LRC curriculum effectively.
Research limitations – The factors that impact an individual's income are numerous, and the data that has been collected is not in-depth enough to make substantive correlations between library usage and income.
Practical implications – The findings will assist in planning LRC activities and developing teaching approaches at WIUT. Furthermore, existing and new graduates can advance market driven skills and boost their employability.
Originality/value – This research is the initial investigation conducted in Uzbekistan that examines how university library operations impact the employability skills of graduates. It is also one of the earliest studies that looks into the experiences of former students in terms of employability skills.
Effect of kuratsuki Kocuria on sake’s taste varies depending on the combination with different sake yeast strains
Authors: Yazaki Ayano , Nishida Hiromi
Published: May 2023

Sake brewery-inhabiting (kuratsuki) bacteria affect the flavor of sake and sake yeast mainly produces the flavor of sake. Thus, kuratsuki bacteria may alter the metabolism of sake yeast through interactions between kuratsuki bacteria and sake yeast. In this study, we used the kuratsuki Kocuria strain TGY1127_2 and three sake yeast strains, AK25, K901, and K1801. Although the Brix and acidity during sake production using AK25 differed between sake with and without kuratsuki Kocuria, those using K901 and K1801 did not differ. Thus, sake yeast AK25 interacted with kuratsuki Kocuria and changed its metabolic characteristics. Based on the Brix and acidity changes, it is uncertain whether the K901 and K1801 strains affect sake yeast metabolism. In contrast, the effect of kuratsuki Kocuria on sake’s taste varied depending on the combination of different sake yeast strains. Thus, each sake yeast strain interacted with the kuratsuki bacterium and changed its metabolic characteristics, resulting in a change in the taste of sake. The findings of this study can lead to the brewing of sake using different types of kuratsuki bacteria which can affect the sake’s taste.
Mesoporous Effects on SiC Fiber Matrix Combined with Active Metal Oxides for Atmospheric Gas Sensing under High Temperature Conditions
Authors: Otgonbayar Zambaga , JOO Young Jun , Cho Kwang Youn , Park Sang Yul , Park Kwang Youl , Oh Won-Chun
Published: May 2023

CO2 and O2 gas sensing tests were conducted on mesoporous WO3 (mWO3) and β−SiC/In2O3/SnO2/mWO3 (SCISOW) quaternary structured gas sensor materials at room temperature and under various high-temperature conditions. The recorded results indicated the incorporation of mWO3 effectively improved gas detection responses compared to the results of our previous studies. The electrochemical properties and surface morphology of the nanocomposites were analyzed by XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, XPS, Raman, EIS, PL, Tafel and LSV methods. All quaternary-structured nanocomposites showed a good response to gas at different temperature variations. Therefore, the excellent electronic conductivity and topography of the nanocomposite increased its gas-sensing ability and changed the usability of the β−SiC/In2O3/SnO2/mWO3 nanocomposite. Gas sensing tests indicated that SCISOW103 nanocomposites showed high resistivity with excellent gas sensing response to CO2, compared to other quaternary nanocomposites and mWO3. Therefore, the electrochemical and technical parameters that change its value are directly related to the electrical conductivity of the sensor material, and the conductivity/resistivity of the sensor material plays a critical role in adjusting the sensitivity of a gas sensor. We believe that the quaternary SCISOW nanocomposites we propose offer new advanced materials for gas sensing tests and open up new opportunities in the field of research.
Identification of Alzheimer's disease from MRI image employing a probabilistic deep learning-based approach and the VGG16
Authors: GUPTA ASHISH , GUPTA DEEPAK , GUPTA SHYAM SUNDER
Published: May 2023

Deep learning model performance is the major factor in dealing with this problem. Several learning techniques such as deep feature extraction and classification were introduced. The presented deep triplet network employs a function of a conditional loss. To make up for the model's short sample size and enhance performance. The described deep triplet network incorporates a conditional loss function. The basic network of this architecture is influenced by VGG16, and testing is being done on an open-access set of imaging data. Experiments reveal that the presented approach has better cutting-edge techniques in regard to effectiveness. However, a number of researchers and scientists are working to develop techniques for earlier identification utilising MRI images in an effort to slow the progression of AD. In this study, two MRI datasets that included 6900, as well as 6136 images, as well as 6136 images have been utilised for the early identification of AD. The DL algorithm is applied by employing a deep Triplet network, producing the outcome in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, precision, and F1-score as (99.62%, 97.25, 98.39, and 97.14), and (96.1%, 95.71, 95.75, and 95.11) for dataset 1 as well as dataset 2. The results are also contrasted with those of earlier studies, which came to the conclusion that the presented approach performs better. Finally, The study is also useful for identifying different ML and DL methods which can be applied to research AD stage detection and identification early.
Electrofluids as liquid conductors with tunable gauge factors
Authors: Schmidt Dominik , Kraus Tobias , Gonzalez-Garcia Lola
Published: May 2023

Flexible and stretchable electronics require both sensing elements and stretching-insensitive electrical connections. Conductive polymer composites and liquid metal structures are highly deformable but strongly change their conductivity upon elongation. Macroscopic Kirigami structures combine stretchability with constant conductivity, but their use is limited by geometrical restraints. Here, we introduce concentrated conductive particle suspensions based on Carbon Black as conductive “Electrofluid”. When using incompatible solvents, large agglomerates form that reduce the electrical percolation threshold by one order of magnitude and act as microscopic Kirigami-like structures with very small gauge factors < 0.4. In compatible solvents, well-dispersed fillers exhibit high percolation thresholds, high stiffness, and positive piezoresistivity (gauge factor > 2). Electrofluids enable the rational design of sustainable soft electronics components by simple solvent choice and can be used both as sensor and electrode materials, as we demonstrate.
Self-regulation of the posterior-frontal brain activity with real-time fMRI neurofeedback to influence conscious perception
Authors: Kim Sunjung , Rocha Josue Luiz Dalboni da , Birbaumer Niels , Sitaram Ranganatha
Published: May 2023

The Global Neuronal Workspace (GNW) hypothesis states that the visual percept is available to conscious awareness only if recurrent long-distance interactions among distributed brain regions activate neural circuitry extending from posterior regions to prefrontal regions above a certain excitation threshold. To directly test this hypothesis, we trained human participants to increase blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) signals with real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rtfMRI) based neurofeedback simultaneously in four specific regions of the occipital, temporal, insular and prefrontal parts of the brain. Specifically, we hypothesized that up-regulation of the mean BOLD activity in the posterior-frontal brain regions lowers the perceptual threshold for visual stimuli, while down-regulation raises the threshold. Our results showed that participants were able to perform up-regulation of the posterior-frontal brain activity but not down-regulation. Furthermore, the up-regulation training led to a significant reduction of the visual perceptual threshold, but no significant change of perceptual threshold was observed after down-regulation training. These findings partially support the GNW hypothesis of consciousness perception, to the extent that up-regulation of the posterior-frontal regions improves conscious awareness of stimuli. However, further questions as to whether the posterior-frontal regions can be down-regulated at all, and whether down-regulation raises the perceptual threshold remain unanswered.
Dispel some mist on circulating biopterins: measurement, physiological interval and pathophysiological implication
Authors: Wang Shao-Ting , Wang Hai-Bo
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND: Biopterins, including tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), dihydrobiopterin (BH2) and biopterin (B), are critical cofactors for aromatic amino acid and nitric oxide synthases. Apart from their acknowledged significance in various endocrine diseases, there are noticeable research gaps and controversies on related experimental outcomes, for example analytical art, physiological interval and pathophysiological implication.
METHODS: Combining chemical derivatization and cold-induced phase separation in sample pretreatment, a new LC-MS/MS method was developed for global profiling biopterins in plasma. On this basis, the impact of anti-oxidation was specifically clarified. Afterwards, 215 apparently normal participates were enrolled to investigate the physiological interval of biopterins. And the relations between biopterins and the routine biochemical indicators were analyzed to explore the biopterins’ pathophysiological implications.
RESULTS: The method was validated to be reliable for detecting biopterins in the whole physiological ranges. Timely anti-oxidation was proved essential for accurate assessment of biopterins. The observed overall mean (± SDs) levels were 3.51 (± 0.94) ng/mL for BH4, 1.54 (± 0.48) ng/mL for BH2, 2.45 (± 0.84) for BH4/BH2 and 5.05 (± 1.14) ng/mL for total biopterins. The status of all the biopterins was tightly correlated with age. The levels of BH2 and BH4/BH2 revealed gender-specific differences. In specific, the healthy problems of hyperuricemia and overweight could cause distinct change on biopterins status in vivo.
CONCLUSIONS: Coupling with proper anti-oxidation, the newly developed method can accurately determine the global biopterins status in plasma. The observed physiological intervals and pathophysiological implications provide fundamental but inspiring supports for further biopterins-based researches.
Assessing Vitamin D Knowledge Among Syrian Adults: A population-based cross-sectional Study.
Authors: Malek Omar , Hajjeh Mhd Yaman Al , Safiah Mhd Homam , Alourfi Zaynab
Published: May 2023

Background
The importance of vitamin D is increasing daily as more studies reveal its links to several benefits for the human body and the wide array of consequences that its deficiency has, that’s why we wanted to assess the knowledge level of vitamin D among the people living in Damascus, Syria.
Methods
This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Syrian Private University. A validated self-administered questionnaire was asked to be filled in by Syrian adults aged 18 and above, using google forms, between the 8th of August 2022 and the 5th of October 2022.
Results
1168 participants were included. 1098 (94.1%) were of Syrian nationality, ages of [18–28 years] made the majority of the sample 634 (54.3%). Two-thirds of the sample does not belong to the medical field 769 (65.8%). The results of this paper showed a high level of knowledge among the participants for sources of vitamin D (83.9% ± 26.2%) and its benefits (75.8% ± 23.5%) but they lacked knowledge of treatment (50.6% ± 30.2%) and for the causes (45.1% ± 26.4%) and consequences (65.1% ± 47.7%) of deficiency, the general knowledge on vitamin D was (60.3% ± 18.6%).
Conclusion
This is the first population-based paper in Syria to evaluate the general awareness of vitamin D and it indicates an average of good knowledge. We discussed some of the inadequate knowledge regarding several aspects such as “Causes of vitamin D deficiency” which had the lowest knowledge (45.1% ± 26.4%). We found a strong correlation between vitamin D knowledge and level of education, father’s / mother’s level of education, economic status, working in the medical field and the source of knowledge on vitamin D. Effective strategies should be made to raise awareness, and further research is recommended for a nationwide assessment.
Farming the planet with better nitrogen use
Authors: Liu Pu , Xu Hang , Liu Sheng , Ding Jia , Lu Xiankai , Zhong Buqing , Guo Yixin , Lu Xiao , Zhao Yuanhong , Zhang Xiuying , Wang Songhan , Liu Xuejun , Xu Wen , Si Ruotong , Goulding Keith , Liu Lei
Published: May 2023

Feeding an increasingly affluent population is a huge challenge facing global agriculture. In contrast to “large-scale farming” in developed economies (e.g. Europe and the United States), developing countries are dominated by “smallholder farms” relying on traditional farming practices but increasingly with substantial nitrogen overuse leading to severe environmental degradation and adverse human health. Here, we explore the potential for better nitrogen use by synthesizing the global relationship between farm size and nitrogen use for 16 major crops, assess the impact of farm size on nitrogen flows, and link these with air quality modelling to produce an integrated assessment of nitrogen-related environmental and health outcomes related to farm size. We find that increasing farm size in developing countries can contribute to more efficient and sustainable farming practices, which could decrease nitrogen overuse, ammonia emissions and nitrogen deposition by 20-25%, increase nitrogen use efficiency by 2-8%, and save over 142,000 premature deaths per year related to PM2.5 air pollution. Although a large one-time investment is required for increasing farm size, there would be substantial progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals, associated with food security, a clean environment and improved human health.
Adopting a citizen science approach in translational experimental medicine research in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A study protocol
Authors: Shah Syed Ghulam Sarwar , Barrado-Martín Yolanda , Marjot Thomas , Tomlinson Jeremy W. , Kiparoglou Vasiliki
Published: May 2023

Background Citizen science approaches are widely and successfully used in biological, environmental, and ecological sciences; however, they are rarely applied in other domains, such as translational health research, notably in the field of liver disease and metabolism. This citizen science study aims to explore the application of the citizen science approach in a translational experimental medicine experiment on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and a 12-week lifestyle and weight loss program. In this methodological paper we describe the process of involving citizen scientists in the study.Methods In his exploratory study, we will recruit a convenience sample of thirty-one participants (with and without NAFLD) and a half-dozen citizen scientists (members of public). Citizen scientists will work alongside clinical and non-clinical researchers in a translational experimental medicine study on NAFLD. Citizen scientists will be involved in the co-design and/or review of data collection tools (e.g., semi-structured open-ended questionnaire surveys and semi-structured wellbeing diaries completed by the participants), co-analysis of data on participants’ experiences and motivations, co-drafting of research findings and papers, and suggesting policy recommendations. Citizen scientists will be provided training in research tasks undertaken by them. Citizen scientists will be either co-authors or their names will be mentioned in the acknowledgements in research paper(s) based on the level of research contributions.Discussion Lessons learned from implementing citizen science in this study will help better understand the advantages and disadvantages of using citizen science in the field of translational medicine research. It will also provide insights as to how citizen science can be integrated in other translational research studies.Conclusion Involving citizen scientists in translational medicine research is important for extending research opportunities for member of the public; however, there may be methodological challenges, which may be identified and resolved by more research studies.
Zur Geschichte der Ophthalmika vom 18. bis zum 20. Jahrhundert
Authors:   , Zayyeni Mani
Published: May 2023

Diese Dissertation untersucht die Entwicklungsgeschichte der ophthalmologischen Arzneimittel mit Fokus auf den Zeitraum 18. bis 20. Jahrhundert.
A dignidade como conceito quase avaliativo: Uma resposta à falácia naturalista por John Finnis
Authors: Machado Ayrton Borges , Pinheiro Victor Sales
Published: May 2023

Este trabalho procede a uma crítica da função do conceito de dignidade no âmbito da teoria de John Finnis, examinando rigorosamente os seus pressupostos e os limites normativos. Chega-se à conclusão de que a dignidade não pode ser chamada realmente normativa na teoria da lei natural de Finnis, senão que, seguindo uma aproximação da terminologia de Waldron, ela possui uma função quase avaliativa, que consiste em ser um elemento fundante dos requisitos de razoabilidade e outros fundamentos, limitando a normatividade dos comandos éticos e jurídicos, sem ser diretamente normativa. Para tanto, primeiro expõe-se os dois momentos da teoria de Finnis a respeito da dignidade, o primeiro menos metafísico, e o segundo declaradamente dependente de pressupostos metafísicos. Na segunda parte apresenta-se a posição dos críticos da teoria de Finnis, que são relevantes para o debate da dignidade. Por fim expõe-se a tese central, de que a dignidade não é diretamente normativa, mas apenas quase avaliativa.
Perfeccionismo estatal: Uma análise crítica de John Rawls a partir da nova teoria da lei natural de John Finnis
Authors: Queiroz Leonardo , Pinheiro Victor
Published: May 2023

O presente artigo tem como propósito apresentar o perfeccionismo estatal defendido pela tradição neoclássica da lei natural – especialmente a partir do filósofo analítico do Direito John Finnis. Tal teoria argui que o Estado pode intervir na vida de seus cidadãos em prol de uma perspectiva de vida boa ou de florescimento humano. Como problemática central, no entanto, questiona-se o fato de que, em uma sociedade plural e democrática, supostamente existiria a indispensabilidade de uma atuação estatal neutra, a qual não beneficia os indivíduos tendo como base visões polêmicas e contraditórias de excelência. Assim, com o objetivo de perscrutar a demanda exposta, em primeiro lugar investiga-se a concepção apoiada por John Rawls, proeminente defensor do antiperfeccionismo estatal no século 20; em seguida, analisa-se a fundamentação da teoria política finnisiana – comunidade, florescimento e autoridade – para que, por fim, após a crítica dirigida aos argumentos rawlsianos, a delimitação do bem comum político, na condição de âmbito de atuação estatal na conduta das pessoas, possa surgir como uma alternativa política perfeccionista.