bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Groundwater Quality Assessment for Drinking and Irrigation Purposes in Khartoum Area- between two Niles–Sudan
Authors: Abdelwdood Braa , Elsheikh Abdalla
Published: August 2024

The Nile and groundwater waters are the two sources for drinking and irrigation water in Khartoum corridors. The assessment of groundwater quality is of high priority for safe uses of water. The suitability of groundwater for drinking purpose was made by applying water quality index (WQI). For irrigation purpose the assessment was based on the Percentage of sodium, Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), Permeability index (PI), Residual sodium carbonate (RSC), Kelly’s ratio (KR), Magnesium adsorption ratio (MAR) and Chloro-alkaline indices (CAI). The water quality index (WQI) reveals that all groundwater samples are found between excellent and good category of water and appropriate for drinking purposes. It is indicated that 95% and 96% of groundwater samples are grouped as excellent water for Gezira and Sandstone aquifers respectively, the remaining samples grouped as Good water. Most of the characteristics of irrigation water which calculated for the groundwater of Sandstone aquifers are more suitable for irrigation than the groundwater for Gezira aquifers (%Na, SAR, PI %, RCS, MAR%, KR and CAI). In the Sandstone aquifers the water quality adjacent to the Blue Nile is excellent than water quality adjacent to the White Nile. WQI is influenced by T.D.S in Gezira aquifers and by Nitrogen compounds in Sandstone aquifers.
Short- and Long-Term Outcomes of Patients Admitted with Infective Endocarditis Who Undergo Patient-Directed Discharge: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Crooker Kyle , He YuTing , Lahey Tim , Hickey Tess , HoddWells Max , Sarathy Ashwini , Teng Torrance , Muniz Sean , Lor Jennifer , Chang Amy , Tompkins Bradley J. , Hale Andrew
Published: August 2024

Background
There is an increase of patients with infective endocarditis who undergo patient-directed discharge prior to completion of the recommended duration of parenteral antibiotics. Outcomes of patients with infective endocarditis who do or do not undergo patient-directed discharge have not been clearly elucidated.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was done on all adult patients with infective endocarditis admitted at a single center between 2010–2020 who did or did not undergo patient-directed discharge. The authors compared baseline characteristics as well as 30-day, 90-day, 1-year, and 2-year outcomes.
Results
A total of 389 patients were included, with 47 in the patient-directed discharge cohort and 342 in the non-patient-directed discharge cohort. The patient-directed discharge cohort was younger and more likely to use intravenous drugs, but less likely to suffer from chronic diseases. The patient-directed discharge cohort was more likely to be infected with S. aureus, to experience right-sided valvular disease, and to receive less parenteral antibiotics. While there was no significant difference in mortality, the patient-directed discharge cohort had increased risk of complications.
Conclusions
Patients with infective endocarditis who undergo patient-directed discharge have significantly different baseline characteristics and are more likely to have complications of infective endocarditis when compared to non-patient-directed discharge, but with no significant difference in mortality.
Wavefront Reconstruction Based on Multi-directional Orthogonal Lateral Shearing Interferometry
Authors: Zhu Yahui , Tian Ailing , Wang Hongjun , Liu Bingcai
Published: August 2024

The shear wavefront in a single direction, which has the phase deviation of the missing orthogonal direction in the interference pattern, there are the limitation of phase sampling points on the shear direction, it has a certain impact on achieving high spatial resolution in wavefront reconstruction. To achieve high-precision wavefront reconstruction of more sampled data in multi-orthogonal shear directions. In our investigation, a wavefront reconstruction method based on multi-directional orthogonal lateral shearing interferometry was studied. By establishing a relationship model corresponding to multi-directional differential wavefront and differential Zernike polynomials, the principle of wavefront reconstruction based on differential Zernike polynomials, a wavefront reconstruction method for multi-directional orthogonal lateral shearing interferometry is proposed. Firstly, the effectiveness of multi-directional orthogonal shearing interferometry wavefront reconstruction was verified by simulation research. Then, a mathematical model for multi-directional orthogonal lateral shearing interferometry of wavefront testing was established. Finally, the measurement verification of actual experimental that the spherical wavefront was carried out, by comparing the repeatability measurement with the measurement results of the ZYGO interferometer, the relative measurement error precision of RMS was better than 0.01λ.
OCIS codes: (120.3180) Interferometry; (230.0230) Optical devices; (120.3940) Metrology; (120.5050) Phase measurement.
Targeted ultrasound-mediated molecular diagnosis and tumor microenvironment remodeling of pancreatic cancer with aPD-L1-modified docetaxel-loaded phase-transition nanoparticles
Authors: Tang Yi , Shen Qingling , Lin Peng , Zhuo Minling , Gan Yajiao , Su Yixi , Qian Qingfu , Lin Liwu , Xue Ensheng , Chen Zhikui
Published: August 2024

Early diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is challenging because of its depth, which often leads to misdiagnosis during ultrasound examinations. The unique PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME) is characterized by significant fibrous tissue growth, and high interstitial pressure hinders drug penetration into tumors. Additionally, hypoxia and immune suppression within the tumor contribute to poor responses to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, ultimately leading to an unfavorable prognosis. This study, aPDL1-DTX/PFP@Lipid nanoparticles were synthesized and had an average diameter of 61.63 nm with 84.3% antibody modification. We demonstrated that the nanoparticles exhibited excellent PDAC-targeting capabilities both in vitro and in vivo. Upon exposure to low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) stimulation, the nanoparticles underwent a phase transition to form microbubbles with substantial molecular ultrasound diagnostic effects, and combined treatment resulted in a tumor growth inhibition rate of 88.91%. This treatment strategy also led to the infiltration of CD8+ T cells, the downregulation of Treg cells, the promotion of M1 macrophage polarization, the inhibition of fibrosis to reduce tumor stromal pressure, and the facilitation of perfluoropropane (PFP) gasification to release O2 and improve tumor hypoxia. In conclusion, aPD-L1-modified liquid‒vapor phase-transition nanoparticles loaded with docetaxel (DTX) were successfully combined with ultrasound for the molecular diagnosis and targeted treatment of PDAC. aPDL1-DTX/PFP@Lipid nanoparticles could reshape the PDAC TME, offering a new approach for ultrasound-mediated diagnosis and treatment with promising clinical applications.
Job Satisfaction and Its Determinants Among Nurses at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
Authors: Muhammed Seid , Adal Ousman
Published: August 2024

Aim
The main goal of the study is to examine the level of job satisfaction and its determinants among nurses at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
Methods
The research used a quantitative approach. Primary data was collected using an institutional-based cross-sectional study from 178 respondents through a simple random sampling technique. The data was collected from June 12–19, 2022. Demographic data and job-related satisfaction were measured using the Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS) by Paul E. Spector.
Results
The descriptive statistics of this study revealed that nurses at TIbebe Ghion Specialized Hospital are slightly satisfied, with a mean score of 3.3 and a satisfaction percentage of 56.5%. The study also showed that job satisfaction has a significant and positive correlation with the sex of the respondents, concluding that sex influences the overall job satisfaction level of nurses.
Estimation of karst carbon sink in typical karst system in pediment of Taihang Mountain, northern China.
Authors: Wu Ya Zun , Ren Suya , Lin Yun , Wang Yiyang
Published: August 2024

The increase of global carbon dioxide concentration leads to climate change and accurate estimation of carbon sink fluxes from rock weathering in karst regions is of great significance to the current global carbon cycle and climate change. However, sulfide oxidation in coal-bearing strata in karst areas of northern China forms sulfuric acid that enters the karst groundwater system and participates in the dissolution of carbonate rocks, making carbon sink estimates potentially too high. To accurately estimate carbon sinks, we selected a typical foothill karst system in northern China. The effects of sulfuric acid on carbonate weathering and carbon sink flux were quantitatively evaluated by applying the Galy model and water chemistry methods. Twenty-nine data sets were analyzed for the dry and wet seasons. The results show that the karst groundwater ions in the spring area mainly originated from the weathering and dissolution of carbonate rocks and partly from the weathering and dissolution of silicate rocks. The total HCO3- flux in the spring area is 296.49´103mol/km2·a-1. When only carbonic acid dissolution was considered, the rock dissolution rate was 300.83´103mol/km2·a-1 and the total consumed CO2 flux was 191.82´103mol/km2·a-1. When carbonic acid and sulfuric acid were jointly involved, the rock dissolution rate was 364.33´103mol/km2·a-1 and the total consumed CO2 flux was 162.17´103mol/km2·a-1. With the participation of sulfuric acid, the rock dissolution rate was elevated by 21.11%, while the consumed CO2 flux decreased by 15%, and the sink reduction effect of sulfuric acid dissolution on karst carbon sinks was obvious. And the carbon sink rate in wet season more than doubled compared with that in dry season. This study provides a basis for the evaluation of carbon sinks in northern China.
Experimental Study to Improve the Strength of Expansive Soil in Egypt Using Different Percentage of Bitumen
Authors: Hakeem Beshoy M. , Hakeem Beshoy
Published: August 2024

Clayey soils naturally shrink and swell, which can have a major impact on buildings due to differential settlements. In semi-arid and arid regions of the world, expansive soils present a significant maintenance challenge for geotechnical practicing engineers. This paper investigates the effect of using six different percentages of bitumen to improve the properties of expansive soils in Egypt. Extensive soil samples were taken from three locations, including the 6th of October (Very high potential expansiveness), El-Mokatam area (High potential expansiveness), Abo-Tartor (El-Kharga, El-Wadi EL- Gedid) (Medium potential expansiveness). Each soil sample set is mixed with bitumen at percentages of 0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, 12%, and 15% by weight to generate six different mixtures. Testing was done on the classification, specific gravity, Atterberge limits, compaction properties, free swell, swelling potential, swell pressure, and compressive strength of the natural and treated soils. The results indicated that, when bitumen content was increased to 15%, the liquid limit decreased by 41.5%, 37.23%, and 35.21% for very high potential expansiveness, high potential expansiveness, and medium potential expansiveness, respectively. Also, free swell, swelling potential, and swell pressure decreased by 68%, 65.5%, and 70% for very high potential expansiveness when bitumen content was increased to 15%. For high potential expansiveness, free swell, swelling potential, and swell pressure decreased by 67.2%, 62.26%, and 45%. In addition, increasing bitumen percentage by 15%, decreased by 33.5%, 55%, and 31.43 for medium potential expansiveness. In this study, the effect of using bitumen on shear strength characteristics, optimum water content, max. dry density, swell limit, shrink limit, and shrink-swell limit for very high, high, medium potential expansiveness have been studied. It was concluded that bitumen stabilization using for improvement the properties of expansive soil in Egypt. Finally, a new set of correlation equations was proposed to estimate the swelling characteristics in relation to the bitumen addition percentage to expansive soil.
An implementation strategy bundle targeting knowledge and costs to implement the combined lifestyle intervention ProMuscle for community-dwelling older adults: a mixed-methods pilot study
Authors: Laag Patricia J. , Dorhout Berber G , Veenhof Cindy , Barten Di-Janne JA , Schoonhoven Lisette
Published: August 2024

Background
ProMuscle is an evidence-based lifestyle intervention for community-dwelling older adults, combining exercise and nutrition. This pilot study investigated the feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity of a recently developed Implementation Strategy Bundle to implement ProMuscle in seven community settings in the Netherlands.
Method
This mixed-methods study followed an exploratory sequential approach. Eight physical therapists and three dieticians received a digital implementation toolbox in which the Implementation Strategy Bundle was further specified into chronologically described activities targeting the two main barriers ‘knowledge’ and ‘costs’. Quantitative data were collected through surveys at baseline, 3 months and 8 months post-implementation. A process evaluation consisted of monthly project meetings and a 90-minute focusgroup 8 months post-implementation. Quantitative data were statistically analyzed and informed the interview guide of the focusgroup. Field notes, memos and transcript of the focus group were thematically analyzed.
Results
Quantitative results showed the implementation strategy bundle was acceptable (mean = 4.31 ± 0.54, 5-point Likert scale) and feasible (mean = 4.61 ± 0.42). Most activities were executed as proposed, indicating good fidelity. The process evaluation indicated the strategy bundle as helpful and easy to use, with suggestions for improvement. Low recruitment rates and a long start-up resulted in two of the 16 practices delivering ProMuscle. Extra activities to enhance collaboration seems needed to overcome these barriers.
Conclusion
This mixed-methods pilot study showed that the implementation strategy bundle addressing barriers on knowledge and costs is feasible and acceptable for implementing ProMuscle in multiple community care settings. Suggestions from this pilot should be considered before investigating the effectiveness in a larger trail.
Deep Learning and Machine Learning Based Highly Accurate Prediction of Reflection for Multi Layers Anti-Reflection Coatings
Authors: OKTAY Semih , DURU İremnur , BAKIR Halit , TABARU Timuçin Emre
Published: August 2024

Optical filters are specialized structures designed to selectively transmit specific regions of the optical spectrum while blocking others. These filters achieve their desired properties using a variety of materials and methods. This work focuses on designing and optimizing multilayer optical filters utilizing Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) techniques. A dataset is created from Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) simulations of Germanium (Ge) substrates coated with alumina (Al2O3) or silica (SiO2). The dataset consists of bands 3–5, typical for medium-wave infrared (MWIR) and long-wave infrared (LWIR) bands, and includes reflectance values for wavelengths varying between 3 µm and 12 µm. Six ML algorithms and a DL model, including artificial neural networks (ANN) and convolutional neural networks (CNN), are evaluated to determine the most effective approach for predicting reflectance properties. Bayesian optimization is used to fine-tune the hyperparameters of the DL model, achieving optimum performance. The results show that ML models, particularly decision tree, random forest, and bagging methods, outperform the DL model in predicting reflectance values and provide a valuable reference for designing and fabricating optical thin-film filters.
Fault Analysis of Kusheriki Map Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Udoutun Charles Brendan , Oden Michael I
Published: August 2024

Faults plays a crucial role in various sector of the economy, and the understanding of fault is essential in the exploration of geothermal energy, mining, management of water and agricultural resources, construction and infrastructure, hazard mitigation, oil and gas exploration, and tourism. Kusheriki is part of Nigerian Basement Complex, located within the Pan-African mobile belt, sandwiched between the West African Craton and the Congo Craton. The area lies within latitudes N10° 00´ and N11° 00´ and longitudes E6° 00´ and E7° 00´. The basement complex is predominantly composed of three formations, Kushaka Formation, Kusheriki Psammite Formation, and the Birnin Gwari Schist Formation. Kusheriki is located in Niger state in Nigeria and is 102 km away from Minna the Niger state capital and 200 km away from Abuja the capital of Nigeria with a land area of 923,768 km2, the principal goal of this study is to analyze the lineaments on Kusheriki map. Study of fault in the area is important as it is a potential host to rare metals, hydrothermal activities and mineralization. Fault analysis on Kusheriki map (sheet 31 Nigerian Geological Survey Agency) of Northwestern Nigeria shows dominant orientations of NNE-SSW, NE-SW (Pan-African), NW-SE (pre-Pan-African), and NNE to N-S which is related to dextral faulting. Analysis of about 75 lineaments measured on the geological map of Kusheriki sheet 31, shows longest fault to be 38.8 to 39 km, analysis of individual fault reveals that the normal fault with 39 km and orientation of 0 – 30o is the longest, the longest probable fault is 15 km with orientation of 20o – 30o, the longest tear faults is 25 km and display a unimodal trend of NE-SW with orientation of 50o – 60o, the longest major quartz vein is 5 km with orientation of 40o – 50o and displays a less prominent E-W trend. The result of the analysis shows that the major quartz vein in the area lies parallel between the normal fault, probable fault and the tear fault. As result of the analysis, geochemical analysis should be carried out on the quartz vein to study the economic minerals hosted by the vein and geophysical investigation carried out to know the depth of the vein.
Timing anomaly detection based on GRU-INEncoder
Authors: Han Shiqian , Wu Junxia , Wang Jun
Published: August 2024

In the field of unsupervised timing anomaly detection, existing methods face challenges in capturing long-range dependencies and dynamic timings due to the scale of the data and multiple feature dimensions. This paper presents a novel method for timing anomaly detection that effectively extracts long-range dependencies and dynamic timing features by leveraging stacked encoders and gated recurrent units (GRUs). Moreover, it introduces a multi-branch attention mechanism to extract local and global features, thereby enhancing the model's ability to perceive information at different scales. The local attention captures fine-grained time series changes, while the global attention focuses on long-term trends and overarching patterns. Experimental results demonstrate that our method significantly outperforms existing time-series anomaly detection methods across several publicly available datasets, such as SMD, MSL, and SMAP, affirming its superiority in terms of accuracy and robustness.
Relationship between spinons and magnetic fields in a fractionalized state
Authors: Cao Gang , Zhang Yu , Zhao Hengdi , Cao Tristan , Nandkishore Rahul
Published: August 2024

The 4d-electron trimer lattice Ba4Nb1-xRu3+xO12 features a universal heavy spinon Fermi surface that underpins both a quantum spin liquid (QSL) and an adjacent heavy-fermion strange metal (HFSM), depending on Nb content; the itinerant spinons as heat carriers render the charge-insulating QSL a much better thermal conductor than the HFSM [1]. Here we report that application of a magnetic field up to 14 T surprisingly breaks the signature temperature-linearity of the heat capacity of both phases below 150 mK, inducing a rapid rise in the heat capacity by as much as 5000%, whereas the AC magnetic susceptibility and the electrical resistivity show little response up to 14 T in the same milli-Kelvin temperature range. Furthermore, the magnetic field readily suppresses the thermal conductivity, and more strongly with decreasing temperature below 4 K by up to 40%. All these complex thermal phenomena indicate a powerful simplifying principle: Application of a magnetic field adversely weakens the itineracy of spinons and eventually destroys it with decreasing temperature, leading to an unprecedented quantum state featuring the astonishing rise in the heat capacity, thus entropy in the most unlikely circumstances of milli-Kelvin temperatures and strong magnetic fields. We present and discuss possible explanations.
Size control and oscillations of active droplets in synthetic cells
Authors: Boekhoven Job , Sastre Judti , Thatte Advait , Bergmann Alexander , Stasi Michele , Tena-Solsona Marta , Weber Christoph
Published: August 2024

Oscillations in the formation and dissolution of molecular assemblies inside living cells are pivotal in orchestrating various cellular functions and processes. However, designing such rhythmic patterns in synthetic cells remains a challenge. Here, we demonstrate the spontaneous emergence of spatio-temporal oscillations in the number of droplets, size, and position within a synthetic cell. The coacervate-based droplets in these synthetic cells sediment and fuse at the cell’s bottom. Through a newly discovered size control mechanism, the sedimented, large droplets shrink by expelling droplet material. The expelled molecules nucleate new droplets at the top of the synthetic cell, which grow and sediment again. These oscillations are sustained by converting chemical fuel into waste and can continue for hundreds of periods without evidence of fatigue. Strikingly, the period of the oscillation is in the minute's regime and tunable. These findings bring us closer to creating more life-like materials and de novo life.
CANTAC-seq analysis reveals E2f1 and Otx1 as a coupled repressor-activator pair co-modulating zygotic genome activation in Xenopus tropicalis
Authors: Chen Wei , Cui Huanhuan , Liang Weizheng , Shi Zhaoying , Zhang Luming , Li Guipeng , Chen Rui , Tian Chi , Gan Diwen , Shi Xinyao , Sun Zhiyuan , Zhu Qionghua , Fang Liang , Huang Hongda , Hu Yuhui , Chen Yonglong
Published: August 2024

Zygotic genome activation (ZGA) is tightly associated with the modulation of chromatin accessibility via maternal transcription factors. However, due to technical limitations, it remains elusive how the chromatin regulatory landscape is established during Xenopus tropicalis (X. tropicalis) ZGA and DNA binding transcription regulators involved in this process have therefore been underexplored. Here, by developing CANTAC-seq, we generated a first genome-wide map of accessible chromatin of early X. tropicalis embryos and found that the open chromatin landscape is progressively established at cis-regulatory elements during ZGA. Based on the motif analysis and perturbation experiments, we demonstrated E2f1, a well-known transcriptional activator, maintains a repressive chromatin environment independent of its negative effect on cell cycle progression before the MBT. Moreover, we identified another maternal factor Otx1 counteracts the inhibitory function of E2f1. The dynamic balance between the two factors determines the temporal regulation of a set of genes required for zygotic gene transcription and germ layer differentiation.
Performance Enhancement of Plate Heat Exchangers Using MWCNTs-SiO2 Hybrid Nanofluids: A CFD Analysis on Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop Characteristics
Authors: Heris Saeed Zeinali , Zolfagharian Nima , Mousavi Seyed Borhan , Nami Shamin Hosseini
Published: August 2024

Heat exchangers play a vital role in numerous sectors like power generation and automotive manufacturing. Enhancing the energy efficiency of these exchangers stands as a significant hurdle. Utilizing nanofluids emerges as an optimal solution to augment heat transfer rates, leveraging their superior thermal conductivity while addressing economic constraints linked with traditional heat exchanger technologies. The motivation for this study is to consider the comprehensive synergistic features of MWCNTs, SiO2, and hybrid MWCNTs–SiO2 EG-based nanofluids in plate heat exchangers. This was achieved by simulating a plate heat exchanger using CFD (Fluent and Gambit softwares) considering the comparison of two SiO2, MWCNTs, and their hybrid forms at different mass concentrations. The Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) method was employed to model turbulent flows, and the nanoparticles were compared in both single-phase and two-phase states, with their properties derived from experimental studies. Moreover, Nusselt number, convective heat transfer coefficient, and pressure drop variations were computed at different Reynolds numbers. The findings indicated an increase in the Nusselt number with the incorporation of the hybrid nanofluid, achieving a maximum enhancement of 11.19% in comparison to EG at a Reynolds number of 240 and a concentration of 0.86 wt.%. Noticeably, the pressure drop remained negligible at lower Reynolds numbers, exhibiting marginal variations up to 0.3% at higher Reynolds numbers. At a concentration of 0.86 wt.% and a Reynolds number of 480, the introduction of MWCNTs, hybrid, and SiO2 nano-additives resulted in respective increases in the heat transfer coefficient by 21.02%, 10.76%, and 2.16% and corresponding alterations in pressure drop of 0.11%, 0.04%, and 0.02%.
Comparing pruned Llama 3 and Llama 2 models for on-device AI assistants
Authors: Liu Bo
Published: August 2024

Sparse connectivity is ubiquitous in biological neural networks. In the machine learning field, it has a long history to train dense neural networks then prune them for sparse connectivity. Recently, this research direction was extended to pruning and sparsifying large language models (LLMs), for which many numerical methods have been invented. Previously, we adopted one of such methods to prune the Llama-2 7B model, in order to develop small-sized language models for on-device AI assistants. We figured out that its sparsity limit is 60\%, at which the pruned Llama-2 7B model could generate fluent and helpful answers to daily queries despite occasional factual inaccuracies. In this article, we extended previous pruning and evaluation methods to the newly-released Llama-3 8B model. We found that this Llama 3 model has a sparsity limit of 53\%, at which it produced fewer factual inaccuracies than Llama 2 at the sparsity limits but required more parameters. We hypothesized that the accuracy improvement is due to the longer context window and larger training dataset used in Llama 3, while the increased parameter requirement is due to its versatility in generating both text and code output. Based on these results and insights, we proposed future directions to boost the model performance after pruning, paving the way for lightweight LLMs as on-device AI assistants.
A qualitative study of the ecology of stigma experiences - An application of the ecological model to stigma experiences of trans-women from Ghana. BSGH019
Authors: Shamrock Osman Wumpini , Guure Chris , Reeves Jacquetta , Ni Zhao , Turner DeAnne , Haruna Aliyu , Nimako Isaac Gyasi , Leblanc Natalie , Wilton Leo , Abu-Ba’are Gamji Rabiu
Published: August 2024

Trans-women in Ghana experience stigma from institutions, social groups, and individuals. Yet, studies are needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the nature of stigma experienced by trans-women, especially in Ghana and West Africa. This study employs an ecological model to qualitatively explore the ecology of stigma experiences of trans-women living in urban slums in Accra, Ghana (N=20). Findings revealed stigma across various ecological levels. At the public policy level, the LGBTQ+ bill emerged as a key driver of stigma. Various subcategories related to this bill included: (a) Restricted freedoms of expression and isolation from harm, (b) LGBTQ+ bill potential for facilitating violence, and (c) fear of arrest and jail time. At the institutional level, trans-women encountered stigma in three areas. The first was in the healthcare sector involving Rude/unwelcoming gestures and behaviors. The second was from law enforcement officers and included (a) harassing attitudes from law officers, and (b) extortion. Community-level stigma encompassed: (a) insults, name-calling, (b) possible harm from gender expression, and (c) fear of attacks. At the interpersonal level, Trans-women experienced: (a) invasion of privacy, (b) leaving home due to safety, (c) threat of bodily harm, and (d) rejection. At the individual/self-stigma level, trans-women experienced (a) self-doubt and internal struggles, and (b) sense of regret and guilt. Findings highlight the unique experiences and pervasive and multi-layered stigma faced by trans-women across different levels of society. Addressing stigma experiences requires a multi-tiered approach that tackles issues from public policy to individual self-acceptance.
Light-use Efficiency and Fruit Dry Matter Content Affect Fresh Yield of Sweet Pepper
Authors: Homma Masaru , Onodera Yasuko , Kanzaki Masaaki , Kaneko So , Ahn Dong-Hyuk
Published: August 2024

Improving the productivity of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum) is essential to meeting the increasing global demand. This can be partially accomplished by investigating and determining high-yield traits, thereby enabling the selection or breeding of high-yield plants. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the high-yield traits of sweet pepper by analyzing its yield components. We analyzed yield components of commercially available cultivars (red and yellow) that were hydroponically grown in a greenhouse (e.g., total fruit fresh weight, fruit dry weight, fruit dry matter content, total dry matter production, and light-use efficiency) using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r). Our results showed the following: the total fruit fresh weight was positively and negatively correlated with the fruit dry weight (r = 0.83; P < 0.001) and fruit dry matter content (r = –0.70; P < 0.001), respectively; the fruit dry weight was positively correlated with the total dry matter production (r = 0.50; P < 0.01), and the total dry matter production was positively correlated with the light-use efficiency (r = 0.93; P < 0.001); and the cultivars with the high total fruit fresh weight were characterized by the notably low fruit dry matter content and high light-use efficiency (e.g., ‘Gialte’). In conclusion, high-yielding sweet peppers are characterized by a low fruit dry matter content and high light-use efficiency.
Nitrogen Fertilization in Snap Bean Following a Legume in the Sandy Soils of North Florida
Authors: Singh Rajkaranbir , Hochmuth Robert C. , Arruda Huggins de Sá Leitão Diego , Sharma Lakesh K.
Published: August 2024

Despite being a legume, snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lacks nodulation genes, restricting its ability for nitrogen (N) fixation through rhizobia, making N fertilization essential for maximizing yields. However, conventional fertilizer application may lead to N losses due to a lack of synchronization between plant uptake and N availability. A promising option could be controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs), which can be custom-formulated to synchronize nutrient release with plant growth needs, promoting efficient resource use. Field studies were conducted at the North Florida Research and Education Center-Suwannee Valley (NFREC-SV) in Live Oak, FL, during the spring of 2021 and 2022. The experiments also investigated broadcasting and banding application methods of the University of Florida’s recommended N rate (112 kg·ha−1). The experimental design comprised 10 treatments, including five N rates (0, 56, 112, 168, and 224 kg·ha−1 N) and two fertilizer sources (ammonium nitrate and CRF), applied to ‘Caprice’ in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Results showed a significant yield improvement with N fertilization vs. the zero-N control. However, no yield increase was observed beyond 56 kg·ha−1. This finding could be due to the residual N from a preceding peanut crop rotation in both years. No notable variation in quality metrics (pod length and width) occurred above the 56 kg·ha−1 threshold. The results also revealed that the choice between conventional or CRF did not exert any statistically significant differences in snap bean yield. In addition, fertilizer broadcast and banding treatments yielded the same results.
On the Virasoro fusion kernel at $c=25$
Authors: Ribault Sylvain , Tsiares Ioannis
Published: August 2024

We find a formula for the Virasoro fusion kernel at c=25c=25, in terms of the connection coefficients of the Painlevé VI differential equation. Our formula agrees numerically with previously known integral representations of the kernel. The derivation of our formula relies on a duality c\to 26-cc→26−c that is obeyed by the shift equations for the fusion and modular kernels. We conjecture that for c<1c<1 the fusion and modular kernels are not smooth functions, but distributions.
Study of service quality, price sensitivity, and passenger satisfaction in India’s airline sector
Authors: Wilfred Vinoj , V. Rama Prasad M. , P. Senthil Kumar J.
Published: August 2024

Understanding the determinants of customer satisfaction is crucial for airlines to maintain and grow their customer base. This study aims to analyze how various service quality dimensions and prices impact airline attractiveness using the service quality (SERVQUAL) model. Data were collected from 400 respondents through an online questionnaire using the convenience sampling method. The respondents included a diverse mix of frequent flyers, occasional travelers, and business professionals, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of passenger perspectives in the Indian airline sector. This study tested the hypotheses by analyzing the data using structural equation modelling (SEM) to understand the relationships between service quality attributes, price, passenger satisfaction, and airline attractiveness. The results indicate that empathy, price, tangibles, and satisfaction determinants positively develop attractiveness among passengers to use and continue in airline services. The relationships between empathy and satisfaction (β = 0.130, t = 2.317, p = 0.021), tangibles and satisfaction (β = 0.214, t = 4.321, p = 0.000), price and satisfaction (β = 0.425, t = 7.825, p = 0.000) were statistically significant, and satisfaction positively influenced airline attractiveness (β = 0.895, t = 75.529, p = 0.000). The assurance, reliability, responsiveness attributes must improve to attract passengers. The results provide insights into aviation industry and help them to make better policies and strategies to implement services and customer satisfaction to sustain heavy aviation competition in India.
AcknowledgmentThe authors express gratitude to GITAM University, department heads, leadership of department of management and all individuals who have supported and contributed to the successful execution of this study.
Maintaining groundwater collection over the rainy season with water ATM price reductions: a study in Kitui County, Kenya
Authors: Ingram Will , Nyaga Cliff , Mugo Peter , Kavata Annah , Gannon Kate , Thomson Patrick
Published: August 2024

Rainy seasons across rural sub-Saharan Africa see a dramatic reduction in the collection of groundwater from water points, exposing communities to health risks and reducing sustainability of service providers. Kenyan water service provider FundiFix operates water points in dispersed rural communities in semi-arid Kitui County and sees five to ten times less water collected, and revenues close to zero, during rainy seasons. Water ATMs record precise volumes of water dispensed and allow for timely price changes. It was hypothesised that reducing price from 3 KES to 1 KES per jerrycan would cheaply maintain clean water collection and possibly increase revenue. FundiFix tested this intervention over the March-April-May 2023 rainy season at three water ATM piped schemes and communicated the price reduction to users, with a fourth control unchanged. This did little to nothing to maintain the collection of water at dry season levels. This shows other practitioners that to address the seasonality challenge price reductions need to be combined with deeper understanding of user behaviour, which requires further study. This study only cost 100 USD in lost revenue from reduced price. Implications for practitioners are outlined. Conditional transfers of water credit to users, rather than price reductions, are discussed.
THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL TRADE ON THE ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES OF COUNTRIES ALONG THE BELT AND ROAD
Authors: Han Chao , Bai Junju , Zou Siyuan
Published: August 2024

The purpose of the study is to analyse the impact of digital trade on economic growth and development strategies of the countries along the "Belt and Road". The article identifies the provisions of the Development Strategies of the SCO member states in the field of cross-border electronic interaction, aimed at increasing the share of GDP and improving the levels of competitiveness of national economies of the SCO countries, strengthening the social protection of citizens and reducing poverty. The analysis of the dynamics of the e-commerce market volumes of the SCO member states (cross-border trade + local segment of online sales) was carried out, and a significant increase in the growth of national economies of the SCO countries during the implementation of the "One Belt, One Road" project, achieved on the basis of strengthening cross-border electronic interaction with the People's Republic of China, was proved. It is concluded that the creation of detailed plans, "road maps" and mecha
High-throughput Sequencing Reveals that BCR and TCR Repertoires as Potential Prognostic Biomarkers for Pediatric Patients with B-ALL
Authors: Li Fu , Yang Xiaomei , Wang Xiuxiu , Mi Jiajia , Mou Xiao , Song Li , Zheng Libo
Published: August 2024

Background:

B-ALL is a hematologic malignancy that recurs in approximately
10-20% of children and has a poor prognosis. New prognostic biomarkers are needed to improve
individualized therapy and achieve better clinical outcomes.

Methods:

In this study, high-throughput sequencing technology was used to detect the BCR and
TCR repertoires in children with B-ALL.

Results:

We observed a gradual increase in the diversity of the BCR and TCR repertoires during
the developmental stages (Pro-, Common-, Pre-B-ALL) of precursor B-ALL cells. Conversely, as
minimal residual disease (MRD) levels on day 19 of induction therapy increased, the BCR/TCR
repertoire diversity decreased. Furthermore, the BCR/TCR repertoire diversity was significantly
greater in B-ALL patients at low risk and those harboring the ETV6/RUNX1 fusion than in patients
with medium-risk disease and those harboring the ZNF384 fusion. Notably, the abundance
of BCR/TCR clones varied significantly among patients with B-ALL and different clinical characteristics.
Specifically, patients with Pre-B-ALL, low-risk disease, D19MRD levels <1%, and harboring
the ETV6/RUNX1 fusion exhibited a predominance of BCR/TCR small clones. In our
study, we noted an imbalanced occurrence of V and J gene utilization among patients with BALL;
however, there seemed to be no discernible correlation with the clinical attributes.

Conclusion:

BCR/TCR repertoires are expected to be potential prognostic biomarkers for patients
with B-ALL.
Phytovesicular Nanoconstructs for Advanced Delivery of Medicinal Metabolites: An In-Depth Review
Authors: Pandey Vishal , Rathee Sunny , Sen Debasis , Jain Sanjay K. , Patil Umesh K.
Published: August 2024

:

Phytochemicals, the bioactive compounds in plants, possess therapeutic benefits, such
as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pharmacological activities. However, their clinical use is often
hindered by poor bioavailability and stability. Phytosome technology enhances the absorption and
efficacy of these compounds by integrating vesicular systems like liposomes, niosomes, transfersomes,
and ethosomes. Phytosomes offer diverse biological benefits, including cardiovascular protection
through improved endothelial function and oxidative stress reduction. They enhance cognitive
function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases in the nervous system, aid digestion
and reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal system, and provide hepatoprotective effects by enhancing
liver detoxification and protection against toxins. In the genitourinary system, phytosomes
improve renal function and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. They also modulate the
immune system by enhancing immune responses and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Additionally, phytosomes promote skin health by protecting against UV radiation and improving
hydration and elasticity. Recent patented phytosome technologies have led to innovative formulations
that improve the stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy of phytochemicals, although
commercialization challenges like manufacturing scalability and regulatory hurdles remain.
Secondary metabolites from natural products are classified into primary and secondary
metabolites, with a significant focus on terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and nitrogen-containing
compounds. These metabolites have notable biological activities: antimicrobial, antioxidant, antibiotic,
antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. In summary, this review amalgamates
the latest advancements in phytosome technology and secondary metabolite research, presenting a
holistic view of their potential to advance therapeutic interventions and contribute to the ever-evolving
landscape of natural product-based medicine.
Phosphofructokinase-1 in Cancer: A Promising Target for Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Ishaq Ali Raza , Younis Tahira , Lin Shankun , Usman Muhammad , Wang Tingfang , Chen Zhe-Sheng
Published: August 2024

Tumor cells have distorted enzymatic houses, which change the metabolic state from
oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis with high lactate levels in a hypoxic environment. Redrafting
the metabolic profile is an emerging hallmark of cancer. Glycolytic enzyme amplification
occurs in about 70% of all malignancies. Current studies have found that PFK-1 overexpression
is linked to cell migration, proliferation, and Overall Survival (OS) rate in various human
cancer cell lines. This review intended to uncover the bona fide therapeutic target for cancer
therapy and elucidate the role of PFK-1 in cancer. Furthermore, this review has outlined the
listed pharmacological and genetic inhibitors of PFK-1. Following this review, future studies on
PFK-1 should emphasize the molecular pathways implicated in PFK-1 overexpression in cancer
development. The terms "PFK-1", "PFKP-1", "PFKL-1", "PFKM-1", "PFKM-1 and cancer",
"PFKP-1 and cancer", "PFKL-1 and cancer", and "inhibitors of PFK-1" were used to retrieve
the information from a variety of databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and
ScienceDirect. In a variety of malignancies, inhibiting the expression of PFK-1 isoforms has
been reported to be the most effective therapeutic method. Overexpression of PFK-1 isoforms
induces the Warburg effect, cell proliferation, and carcinogenesis by downregulating apoptotic
proteins, such as active caspase-3, caspase-9, and caspase-8. YY1, synoviolin, Sh-RNA-507,
SNAI, miR-520a/b/e, miR-128, and β-miR-6517 are some of the putative genetic inhibitors
against PFK-1 that have been used to manage the development of malignancies. Pharmacological
inhibitors, such as penfluridol, synoviolin/HRD1, quercetin, ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3, triptolide,
worenine, acetylsalicylic acid, and salicylic acid, can regulate the advancement of malignancies
by inhibiting PFK-1. Thus, PFK-1 is a promising molecular biomarker for cancer treatment.
A prospective investigation can validate the unbiased approaches for discovering brandnew
PFK-1 inhibitors for cancer treatment.
Electrodeposition of Sacrificial Layer, Al2O3/ZnTPP film, onto NiTi Orthodontic Wire: Surface Characterizations and Electrochemical Investigations
Authors: Venkateshwaran Venkatraman , Sridharan Gokul , Ganapathy Dhanraj , Sundramoorthy Ashok K.
Published: August 2024

Background:

NiTi (nickel-titanium) alloy wires are widely used in orthodontics due to
their unique properties, such as shape memory and superelasticity. However, these wires can be susceptible
to corrosion in the oral environment, which can compromise their mechanical performance
and longevity. Zinc tetraphenyl porphyrin (ZnTPP) is a corrosion inhibitor that forms a protective
layer on the aluminum oxide (Al2O3) surface, acting as a barrier against corrosive agents.

Objective:

The electrodeposition of a sacrificial layer of Al2O3 with ZnTPP was carried out onto Ni-
Ti orthodontic wire to enhance the corrosion resistance.

Methods:

10 mM aluminum nitrate was dissolved in 10 mL of 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution
(PBS), which was used as an electrolyte. Firstly, electrodeposition of Al2O3 on NiTi wire was carried
out by using cyclic voltammetry by potential scanning between 0 and -2.0 V at a scan rate of 50
mV/s for 50 cycles. Secondly, 10 mL of 1 mM ZnTPP in 0.1 M PBS and ethanol (1:1) was prepared
and used as an electrolyte. Electrodeposition of ZnTPP onto Al2O3/NiTi wire was achieved by cyclic
voltammetry through the potential window of 0 to -2.0 V at a scan rate of 50 mV/s for 50 cycles.

Results:

The ZnTPP/Al2O3/NiTi wire displayed a potentiodynamic polarization resistance of 412931
Ω, with high stability compared to the bare NiTi wire (396421 Ω). Additionally, the corrosion rate
for the ZnTPP/Al2O3/NiTi wire was measured as 0.254 mm/year, which was notably lower than that
of the bare NiTi wire (0.540 mm/year). This decrease in corrosion rate can be attributed to the presence
of the ZnTPP/Al2O3 film, which renders the NiTi wire electrically insulative and significantly
increases its impedance compared to the bare NiTi wire.

Conclusion:

The bilayer coating of Al2O3 and ZnTPP has proven to significantly improve the corrosion
resistance and stability of the wires. Thus, these materials can be considered for coating orthodontic
archwires with improved corrosion stability.
Light-Weighted Dynamic Encryption Decryption Algorithm (DEnDecA) for Internet of Things
Authors: Kalsi Jasvir Singh , Ubhi Jagpal Singh , Raju Kota Solomon
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

A recent boom in the development of IoT-enabled products has accelerated
data transmission from end clients to cloud services and vice versa. Being resource-constrained,
IoT devices have lower computational support, especially at IoT end nodes; hence, the probability
of data breach has also increased to a greater extent.

Methods:

A lightweight security algorithm for the Internet of Things (IoT) is a matter of concern
for data security and integrity. IoT nodes transmit the data into small chunks and are vulnerable to
attacks, such as probing attacks. In this study, a new approach of algorithm hopping using dynamic
switching of encryption algorithm has been proposed.

Results:

Dynamic Encryption Decryption Algorithm (DEnDecA) proves to be a lightweight choice
of encryption by providing high-security shielding over less secure algorithms by their dynamic selection
without any human interaction or interface. The hopping has been implemented using
MATLAB along with AES-32, AES-64, and AES-128.

Conclusion:

The results show only 8-bit data overhead and 2ms to 8ms additional time for encryption/
decryption for data ranging from 1KB to 1MB for AES-128, AES-64, and AES-32 algorithms