bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bintrafusp alfa, a bifunctional fusion protein targeting TGF-β and PD-L1, for recurrent/metastatic cervical cancer after platinum failure: primary results from a phase 2 study
Authors: Li Gui-Ling , Yunokawa Mayu , Lee Jung-Yun , Kim Byoung Gie , Oppermann Christina Pimentel , Zhou Qi , Nishio Shin , Okamoto Aikou , Wu Xiaohua , Mileshkin Linda , Oaknin Ana , Ray-Coquard Isabelle , Hasegawa Kosei , Jehl Genevieve , Vugmeyster Yulia , Zhang Sen , Bajars Marcis , Yonemori Kan , Birrer Michael
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE
Cervical cancer is a common and lethal cancer worldwide. Bintrafusp alfa, a first-in-class bifunctional fusion protein composed of the extracellular domain of the human transforming growth factor β receptor II (TGF-βRII or TGF-β “trap”) fused via a flexible linker to the C-terminus of each heavy chain of an immunoglobulin-G1 antibody blocking programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), was evaluated in women with recurrent/metastatic cervical cancer.
PATIENT AND METHODS
This phase 2, multicenter, international, single-arm study evaluated bintrafusp alfa monotherapy in patients with recurrent/metastatic cervical cancer with disease progression during or after platinum-based chemotherapy. Patients received 1200 mg bintrafusp alfa intravenously once every 2 weeks. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR) per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1 by Independent Review Committee (IRC). This trial was registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04246489).
RESULTS
At data cutoff, 146 of 203 screened patients received ≥1 bintrafusp alfa dose. The study met its primary endpoint to have a 95% confidence interval (CI) above the ORR benchmark of 15%, with an ORR of 21.9% (95% CI 15.5-29.5) per the IRC. Of these patients, 59.4% had a durable response of ≥6 months. At data cutoff, responses were ongoing in 13/32 responders (40.6%). The most common treatment-related adverse events were anemia (17.1%), rash (14.4%), hypothyroidism (10.3%), and pruritus (10.3%). Any-cause adverse events of special interest included anemia (56.2%), bleeding events (55.5%), and immune-related adverse events.
CONCLUSION
This phase 2 study of bintrafusp alfa met its primary endpoint, which may support the potential of a bispecific therapy targeting TGF-β and PD-L1 in recurrent/metastatic cervical cancer.
Decentralized Multi-Agent Path Finding Framework and Strategies Based on Automated Negotiation
Authors: Keskin Mehmet Onur , Canturk Furkan , Eran Cihan , Aydogan Reyhan
Published: June 2023

This paper introduces a negotiation framework to solve Multi-Agent Path Finding (MAPF) Problem for self-interested agents in a decentralized fashion. The framework aims to achieve a good trade-off between the privacy of the agents and the effectiveness of solutions. Accordingly, a token-based bilateral negotiation protocol and two negotiation strategies are presented. The experimental results over four different settings of MAPF problem showed that the proposed approach could find conflict-free path solutions albeit suboptimally, especially when the search space is large and high-density, whereas Explicit Estimation Conflict-Based Search (EECBS) struggles to find optimal solutions. Besides, deploying a sophisticated negotiation strategy that utilizes information about local density for generating alternative paths can yield remarkably better solution performance in this negotiation framework.
Photocatalytic degradation of chlorpyrifos pesticide in aqueous solution using Cu-doped TiO2/GO photocatalysis vicinity of UV and visible light
Authors: Esfandian Hossein , Mirzaei Sogand , Chari Alireza Soltani , Ghadi Reza Abasnezhad , moqadam Iran hasan
Published: June 2023

In this study, the sol-gel method was used to synthesize Cu-doped TiO2/GO composite nanoparticles. The prepared samples were identified utilizing XRD, EDX-SEM, BET, and FT-IR methods. Photocatalytic absorber prepared vicinity of UV light and visible light was used to remove chlorpyrifos pesticide. The effect of factors, such as pH, amount of adsorbent, and irradiation time, on the amount of pesticide removal, was investigated. The maximum efficiency of chlorpyrifos removal was obtained at pH = 2, irradiation time of 80 minutes, and photocatalyst amount of 0.2 g for UV light and visible light, equal to 91.4% and 78.25%, respectively. The Pseudo-first order kinetics as best choice efficiency described the chlorpyrifos degradation process according to Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic with rate constants equal to 0.0301 and 0.0177 min− 1 vicinity of UV light and visible light respectively.
"Healing the Heart: A Retrospective Analysis of Surgical Management of Chronic Constrictive Pericarditis at Tikur Anbessa Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Wondu , Bezabih Abebe , Gullilat Dereje , kassa seyoum
Published: June 2023

Background: Chronic Constrictive pericarditis is a condition that can lead to diastolic heart failure due to a thickened, scarred, and non-compliant pericardium. Surgical intervention in the form of Pericardiectomy is the mainstay of treatment.
Objectives: This retrospective study aims to describe the clinical characteristics, surgical management, and outcomes of patients with Chronic constrictive pericarditis treated with Pericardiectomy at Tikur Anbessa Hospital.
Methods: Medical records of 49 patients who underwent Pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis at Tikur Anbessa Hospital from January 2012 to December 2016 were analyzed retrospectively. Data was collected using a well-structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS 20.
Results: Of the 49 patients, 34 were male (69.4%) and 15 were female (30.6%) with a mean age of 25.06 +/- 13.884 (range 6-80 years). The most common presenting symptoms were shortness of breath (98%), leg swelling (75.5%), abdominal swelling (65.3%), and cough (44.9%). 73.5% of the patients had a medical history of tuberculosis. Median sternotomy was performed in all patients, with 71.4% undergoing total Pericardiectomy and 28.6% undergoing partial Pericardiectomy. The most common intraoperative and immediate post-operative complications were low output syndrome (8.2%), myocardial perforation (6.1%), bleeding (6.1%), and wound infections (4.1%). Mortality within the same admission or within 30 days post-operative was 2%.
Conclusion: Pericardiectomy is an effective treatment for Chronic constrictive pericarditis and associated with excellent functional outcomes. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial in reducing morbidity and mortality. Tuberculosis remains an important cause of constrictive pericarditis in our setting.
Use of Dyna-computed tomography-assisted neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation in the treatment of hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Wang Heping , Tian Liang , Yang Hai , Chen Keyu
Published: June 2023

Objective
The purpose of this study was to evaluate and summarize the technical characteristics and clinical efficacy of using Dyna computed tomography (CT)-assisted neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation to treat hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH).
Patients and Methods
: We treated 42 consecutive patients with HICH who underwent neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation in our department from March 1, 2020 to May 31, 2022. Patients were divided into two groups: Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic group (n = 18) and neuroendoscopic group (n = 24). Retrospective data, treatment efficacy, and outcomes were collected and compared between these two groups.
Results
The operative time in the Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic group was significantly shorter than the operative time in the neuroendoscopic group (mean time 131.6 ± 13.51 vs. 156.6 ± 19.25 min, P < 0.001). Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic group had significantly less intraoperative blood loss than the neuroendoscopic group. (46.94 ± 10.42 vs. 106.46 ± 23.25, P = 0.003). However, patients who underwent Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic had a comparable hematoma clearance rate to those who underwent neuroendoscopic (89.36 ± 7.31 vs. 68.87 ± 19.44%, P = 0.006). The incidence of complications in the Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic group (5.6%) was lower than in the neuroendoscopic group (12.5%), but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.129). Patients who underwent Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation had better 6-month functional outcomes, and the difference was significant. (p = 0.004). Furthermore, multivariable analysis showed that younger age, smaller hematoma volume and Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic were predictors of favorable 6-month outcomes in HICH patients.
Conclusion
In the treatment of HICH, Dyna-CT-assisted hematoma evacuation appears to be safer and more effective than neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation. Dyna-CT-assisted neuroendoscopic hematoma evacuation in hybrid operating rooms may improve the clinical effect and outcomes of patients with HICH.
Cryptographic Analysis of Blur-Based Encryption an in depth examination of resilience against various attack vectors
Authors: Umar Hafiz Gulfam Ahmad , Aoun Muhammad , Kaleem Muhammad Aftab , Rehman Shafiq Ur , khan Madiha Zahir , Younis Muhammad , jamil Muhammad
Published: June 2023

The study evaluates the encryption method's resistance to well-known cryptographic assaults and assesses its robustness against frequent image processing operations. In this paper we evaluate of the blur-based picture encryption method and demonstrates how it is resistant to image processing operations and cryptographic assaults the benefits of the blur-based picture encryption method, highlighting its effectiveness and ease of use. It demonstrates the method's appropriateness for secure multimedia transmission and storage applications while identifying any flaws and outlining prospective improvements. A variety of techniques used in the study, including the Arnold Transform, logistic Map, Henon Map, Modified Arnold Transform, and Baker Map. Additionally, it emphasizes the Gaussian blur algorithm's performance in compared to other methods, highlighting how quickly it encrypts data only 0.0006 seconds. It also emphasizes the Gaussian blur algorithm's faster speed as compared to other algorithms.
Dictatorship, Higher Education, and Social Mobility
Authors: Prem Mounu , Bautista María Angélica , Martínez Luis R. , Muñoz Pablo , González Felipe
Published: June 2023

We study the effect of political regime change on higher education and its distributional consequences. We focus on Chile’s military dictatorship under Augusto Pinochet. After coming to power through a coup in 1973, the Pinochet regime steadily reduced government funding for higher education, which led to fewer openings for new college students and lower tertiary enrollment. These cuts disproportionately affected college applicants from less affluent backgrounds. Exploiting the greater exposure to the contraction of higher education experienced by birth cohorts that reached college age shortly after the 1973 coup, we show that those affected had lower college enrollment, worse labor market outcomes, and struggled to climb the socioeconomic ladder. These findings suggest that the contraction of higher education hindered social mobility and plausibly contributed to the increase in inequality observed under Pinochet.
JEL codes: H52, I23, I24, I25
Structural characterization of biosurfactant produced by marine bacterium Pseudomonas fragi strain F1 (isolated from Persian Gulf) and evaluation of antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity
Authors: Amirinejad Nazanin , Shekarchizadeh Afrooz , Mousavi Maryam , Behzadi Mahla Askarinejad , Hassanshahian Mehdi , Ataie Seyed Ahmad , Hjazi Ahmad , Ibrahim Ahmed jaber
Published: June 2023

The marine environment is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including biosurfactant-producing bacteria that exhibit unique characteristics and functionalities. In this study, we focused on glycolipid biosurfactants produced bacteria in a commensal relationship with marine organisms. We isolated and characterized a biosurfactant-producing strain, Pseudomonas fragi strain F1, which displayed high hemolytic activity (27mm), oil spreading ability (4mm), emulsification index (40%), and decreasing surface tension (31.3 mN/m). Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis revealed the glycolipid nature of the produced biosurfactant. Elemental analysis using CHNS and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed the presence of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, chlorine, potassium, oxygen, and some other elements in the biosurfactant. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the biosurfactant was measured at 350 mg.L− 1, indicating its high efficiency. Furthermore, the biosurfactant demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (the largest obtained ZOI was associated to P. aeruginosa with 27 mm), making it a potential alternative to synthetic drugs. The biosurfactant also exhibited substantial inhibition of biofilm formation and disruption, as well as enzymatic activity reduction in treated bacteria. Moreover, the mixture of biosurfactant and F1 bacterium enhanced the degradation of crude oil (86%), indicating its potential for environmental remediation. These findings highlight the importance of exploring commensal biosurfactant-producing strains in marine environments for hydrocarbon degradation, combating antibiotic resistance, and disrupting microbial biofilms.
Implicating Anoikis and CXCR4 in Osteoarthritis: Predictive Modeling and Therapeutic Insights
Authors: Kuang Yulin , Kuang Haoming , Li Hongfang , Xiong Luojie , Gong Zhichao , Tan Junlan , Kuang Jianjun , Sun Shaoqiu
Published: June 2023

Background
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a globally prevalent joint disorder characterized by complex pathophysiology and diagnostic limitations. The present study aimed to elucidate the potential roles of anoikis-related genes in OA and develop a reliable diagnostic model. Additionally, we investigated the role of hub gene CXCR4 in immune response modulation within OA and explored potential therapeutic agents.
Methods
Gene expression datasets GSE207881 and GSE168505, were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database and analyzed for potential disparities in immune cell infiltration between OA and control samples.
Results
We identified 94 DEGs involved in OA pathogenesis and pinpointed 6 hub genes (CXCR4, PECAM1, CCL5, VWF, MCAM, and CXCL12) with potential roles in OA. The machine learning model, which developed nine models and used SHAP method for interpreting the models, showed high predictive accuracy for OA risk, with CCL5, CXCL12, and CXCR4 emerging as key predictive factors. Notably, CXCR4, an immune system modulator, exhibited potential interactions with immune responses in OA. Furthermore, potential therapeutic compounds were examined using Connectivity Map (CMap) analysis and molecular docking. CMap analysis proposed potential therapeutic compounds, which require further validation.
Conclusions
Our study unveils the association between anoikis-related genes and OA, highlighting the utility of machine learning models for OA risk prediction. It also underscores the significance of CXCR4 in immune response modulation and potential therapeutic strategy in OA. These findings could spur the development of novel diagnostic tools and personalized therapies for OA, although further validations are necessary.
Extending the limits of the abatement cost
Authors: MEUNIER GUY , Ponssard Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2023

Public authorities have to decide whether to support projects to mitigate GHG emissions. In the context of the transition toward Net Zero Emissions, all polluting activities need be decarbonised one day or the other that is, projects should lead to a perpetual clean phase. The relevant questions are which clean technology should be used and when it should be launched. The paper proposes the relevant dynamic cost benefit framework to solve these questions. Under some specific assumptions we derive two metrics of abatement cost, the first one to determine when to implement a given technology, and the second one to compare alternative technologies. The first metric, called the dynamic abatement cost, is defined as the ratio between the annualized incremental cash cost of the new technology by the long term abatement. It is obtained through a marginal cost benefit analysis relative to the launch date. The second metric is an adjustement of the first one to integrate the impact of intermediary abatements along the transitory phase. These two metrics are not simple extensions of current abatement metrics, which ordinarily would provide spurious answers. We generalize our metrics to situations with exogenous technical change, a random arrival of a backstop technology, and when Hotelling's rule does not apply. We show how to incorporate endogenous technical change and spillovers between sub-components of a project. Two applied studies are revisited to highlight the operational interest of our approach.
JEL Classi cation: Q51, Q56, R58
Willingness and Motivation of Egyptian Patients with diabetic retinopathy to Participate in Clinical Trials
Authors: Khalil Ahmad S. , Salamah Moustafa A. , Kotb Ahmed N , Hegab Mohammed A.
Published: June 2023

Purpose
is to identify the motivational factors and barriers to clinical trial recruitment of the Egyptian DR patients.
Patients and methods:
Patients with DM either type I or II came to our outpatient clinic were subjected to fundus examination. Patients with any degree of diabetic retinopathy were included. A questionnaire was distributed to them. It included the sociodemographic, clinical characteristics and questions to identify the motivational factors or barriers to participate in a trial. We divided them according to their tendency for recruitment, the first group that accepts the participation; we asked them about the most motivational factors. The second group that refused the participation, we asked them about their potential barriers.
Results
Among the 206 recruited patients (145/206) (70.4%), accepted to participate while the remaining (61/206) (29.6%) refused to. Fear from blindness was the commonest motivational factor (93.1%) and the risk of side effects was the commonest barrier (100%). Acceptance to participate was higher among those with positive family history (P = 0.01). Refusal to participate was higher in mild NPDR (P < 0.001). Patients with PDR and macular edema accepted to participate (P < 0.001). High education was significantly associated with acceptance compared to those who refuse (81.1% versus 18.9% respectively) (P = 0.004). Ocular history of previous intervention significantly associated with accepting to paricipate (P = 0.001).
Conclusion
Acceptance was unpredictably high. The results of this questionnaire should encourage researchers to conduct more clinical trials.
A unified Bayesian inversion approach for a class of tumor growth models with different pressure laws
Authors: FENG YU , Liu Liu , Zhou Zhennan
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we use the Bayesian inversion approach to study the data assimilation problem for a family of tumor growth models described by porous-medium type equations. The models contain uncertain parameters and are indexed by a physical parameter $m$, which characterizes the constitutive relation between density and pressure. Based on these models, we employ the Bayesian inversion framework to infer parametric and nonparametric unknowns that affect tumor growth from noisy observations of tumor cell density. We establish the well-posedness and the stability theories for the Bayesian inversion problem and further prove the convergence of the posterior distribution in the so-called incompressible limit, $m \rightarrow \infty$. Since the posterior distribution across the index regime $m\in[2,\infty)$ can thus be treated in a unified manner, such theoretical results also guide the design of the numerical inference for the unknown. We propose a generic computational framework for such inverse problems, which consists of a typical sampling algorithm and an asymptotic preserving solver for the forward problem. With extensive numerical tests, we demonstrate that the proposed method achieves satisfactory accuracy in the Bayesian inference of the tumor growth models, which is uniform with respect to the constitutive relation.
Dynamic Modeling and Fault-Tolerant Reconfiguration Strategies for PneumaticallyActuated Soft Snake Robot: Enabling Robust Locomotion in the Presence of Air Leakage
Authors: Bhandari Garima , Yang Jung Min , Pathak Pushparaj Mani
Published: June 2023

Recently, the study of soft robots has become quite popular for their flexibility, safer interaction with humans, and low-cost adaptability to complex and uncertain environments. This paper presents a bond graph model of a pneumatically actuated soft snake robot and novel reconfiguration strategies for the soft snake robot to accommodate the faults caused by air leakage. With the proposed recon-figuration strategies, the soft snake robot can have robust locomotion along the desired trajectory even if an air leakage fault occurs during the locomotion. An efficient procedure of fault detection and isolation is also incorporated into the bond graph model of the robot. We conduct in-depth numerical experiments to validate the proposed robot model’s performance and reconfiguration strategies. Experimental results demonstrate that the soft snake robot, aided with reconfig-uration strategies, achieves straight-line locomotion with the lateral undulation gait despite air leakage faults.
Serum Humanin in Pediatric Septic Shock Associated Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome
Authors: Atreya Mihir , Cvijanovich Natalie Z. , Fitzgerald Julie C. , Weiss Scott L. , Bigham Michael T. , Jain Parag N. , Schwarz Adam J. , Lutfi Riad , Nowak Jeffrey , Thomas Neal J. , Baines Torrey , Haileselassie Bereketeab , Zingarelli Basilia
Published: June 2023

Background
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) disproportionately contributes to pediatric sepsis morbidity. Humanin (HN) is a small peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA and thought to exert cytoprotective effects in endothelial cells and platelets. We sought to test the association between serum HN (sHN) concentrations and MODS in a prospectively enrolled cohort of pediatric septic shock.
Methods
Human MT-RNR2 ELISA was used to determine sHN concentrations on day 1 and 3. The primary outcome was thrombocytopenia associated multi-organ failure (TAMOF). Secondary outcomes included individual organ dysfunctions on day 7. Associations across pediatric sepsis biomarker (PERSEVERE) based mortality risk strata and correlation with platelet and markers endothelial activation were tested.
Results
140 subjects were included in this cohort, of whom 39 had TAMOF phenotype. Concentration of sHN was higher on day 1 relative to day 3, and among those with TAMOF phenotype in comparison to those without. Although, the association between sHN and TAMOF phenotype was not significant after adjusting for age and PRISM-III score in multivariate models, we identified that sHN was independently associated with presence of day 7 sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) (p = 0.032). Further, sHN was higher among those with high PERSEVERE-mortality risk strata and correlated with platelet counts and several markers of endothelial activation.
Conclusion
Among children with septic shock, sHN concentrations were higher among patients with TAMOF phenotype and independently associated with persistent SA-AKI. Pending further validation and rigorous mechanistic studies, interventions aimed at restoring humanin may have therapeutic implications in recovery of organ function among critically ill patients.
The fuzzy support vector data description based on tightness for noisy label detection
Authors: Wu Xiaoying , Liu Sanyang , Bai Yiguang
Published: June 2023

Machine learning is a data-driven approach and as machine learning research advances, noisy labels have become a widely studied issue. Noisy labels can significantly reduce the accuracy of supervised classification models, making it important to address this problem. In this study, we propose a new method for detecting noisy labels in datasets. This method first utilizes a deep pre-trained network to obtain a feature set from the image data. We then introduce a membership degree based on tightness into the support vector data description model to detect noisy data in the dataset. To further verify the accuracy of our method, we construct two noise sets: the density peak noise set and the random noise set. The experimental findings indicate that our proposed algorithm outperforms traditional support vector data description algorithms in detecting noisy labels. Moreover, we use confidence to correct noisy labels in the data. After correcting for noisy labels, the accuracy of image classification is significantly improved.
How to Personalize and Whether to Personalize? Candidate Documents Decide
Authors: Liu Wenhan , Zhou Yujia , Zhu Yutao , Dou Zhicheng
Published: June 2023

Personalized search plays an important role in satisfying users’ information needs owing to its ability to build user profiles based on users’ search histories. Most of the existing personalized methods built dynamic user profiles by emphasizing query-related historical behaviors rather than treating each historical behavior equally. Sometimes, the ambiguity and short nature of the query make it difficult to understand the potential query intent exactly, and the query-centric user profiles built in these cases will be biased and inaccurate. In this work, we propose to leverage candidate documents, which contain richer information than the short query text, to help understand the query intent more accurately and improve the quality of user profiles afterwards. Specifically, we intend to better understand the query intent through candidate documents, so that more relevant user behaviors from history can be selected to build more accurate user profiles. Moreover, by analyzing the differences between candidate documents, we can better control the degree of personalization on the ranking of results. This controlled personalization approach is also expected to further improve the stability of personalized search as blind personalization may harm the ranking results. We conduct extensive experiments on two datasets and the results show that our model significantly outperforms competitive baselines, which confirms the benefit of utilizing candidate documents for personalized web search.
Earliest isotopic evidence of high reliance on plant food in the Late Pleistocene hunter-gatherer population (Taforalt, Morocco)
Authors: Moubtahij Zineb , McCormack Jeremy , Bourgon Nicolas , Trost Manuel , Fuller Benjamin , Smith Geoff , Sinet-Mathiot Virginie , Temming Heiko , Steinbrenner Sven , Hublin Jean-Jacques , Bouzouggar Abdeljalil , Turner Elaine , Jaouen Klervia
Published: June 2023

The transition from hunting-gathering to agriculture stands as one of the most significant dietary revolutions in human history. Yet, due to a scarcity of well-preserved human remains from Pleistocene sites, little is known about the dietary practices of pre-agricultural human groups. Here, we present the first isotopic evidence of pronounced plant reliance among Late Pleistocene hunter-gatherers from North Africa, predating the advent of agriculture by several millennia. Employing a comprehensive multi-isotope approach, we conducted zinc (δ66Zn) and strontium (87Sr/86Sr) analysis on dental enamel, carbon (δ13C), and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope analysis on dentin and bone collagen, alongside single amino acid analysis on humans and fauna from Taforalt (Morocco). Our results unequivocally demonstrate a substantial plant-based component in the diets of these hunter-gatherers. This distinct dietary pattern challenges the prevailing notion of high reliance on animal proteins among pre-agricultural human groups. Additionally, it raises intriguing questions surrounding the absence of agricultural development in North Africa during the early Holocene. This study underscores the importance of investigating dietary practices during the transition to agriculture and provides novel insights into the complexities of human subsistence strategies across different regions.
Supernova Archaeology in a Black-Hole Wind
Authors: Keshet Noa , Behar Ehud
Published: June 2023

Supernovae (SNe) are responsible for the elemental enrichment of the galaxy [1, 2]. High-mass core-collapse SNe are postulated to leave behind a black hole (BH) [3, 4]. In a stellar binary the BH can accrete back its own debris, emit X-rays, and eject winds [5]. Measuring abundances of elements in the outflow, or of the companion [6, 7], can lead to inferences about the historical explosion and identify the long-gone progenitor of the black hole [8]. Here, we exploit a uniquely rich X-ray spectrum of the binary GRO J1655-40 [9-11] to measure seventeen different elements in its wind. The wind is unusually rich in odd-Z elements, such as Na, Al, P, Cl, and K. Such a composition has been predicted for core-collapse SNe of metal-rich massive stars of 40 M⊙ [12, 13], but never before observed. The ionization distribution in the wind [14, 15] features two distinct regions, which reflect changes in its radial profile, and perhaps entrainment of pristine circumstellar supernova debris. It can also explain why the wind differs in composition from that of the stellar companion, where SN debris is mixed with its atmosphere [7]. The difference between the current BH mass of 6.6 M⊙ and theoretical estimates for its birth mass of ∼ 3 M⊙ date the supernova at least 10 million years back if it grew by accretion.
Decoding the Relationship between Cow Milk Proteins and Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Development
Authors: Andrade Luís Jesuino de Oliveira , de Oliveira Gabriela Correia Matos , de Oliveira Luísa Correia Matos , Bittencourt Alcina Maria Vinhaes , Sousa Maristella de Araújo Carvalho , de Oliveira Luís Matos
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease that develops due to the destruction of insulin-producing beta-cells in the pancreas by the immune system. Cow milk is one of the dietary factors associated with the development of T1DM, as it contains proteins that may trigger the autoimmune response.
Objective: To analyze in silico the evidence of molecular mimicry between Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase-65 (GAD-65)/ Human insulin/Zinc Transporter 8 (ZnT8) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) and beta-lactoglobulin (BLG) as a potential trigger for T1DM.
Method: The in silicoanalysis was performed using bioinformatics tools to compare the amino acid sequences of cow milk proteins (BSA and BLG) and human beta-cell autoantigens (GAD-65, Human insulin and ZnT8). The structural and functional characteristics of the proteins were analyzed to identify potential molecular mimicry mechanisms.
Results: The results of the in silico analysis showed significant sequence similarity between BSA, BLG, and GAD-65, Human insulin and ZnT8 ranging from 19.64% to 27.27%. The cow's milk proteins evaluated shared structural features with the beta cell antigens selected for comparison, indicating the potential for molecular mimicry between these proteins. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide further evidence for the potential role of cow milk proteins in the triggering of T1DM. The in silico analysis suggests that molecular mimicry mechanisms between cow milk proteins and human beta-cell antigens may contribute to the autoimmune response that leads to T1DM. This study highlights the importance of dietary factors in the development of T1DM and the need for further research to understand the mechanisms involved.
Six-Tier Architecture for AI-Generated Software Development: A Large Language Models Approach
Authors: Uzair Waqas , Naz Sameen
Published: June 2023

In the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automated software engineering , there is an abundant potential to reimagine traditional practices and enhance operational efficiency. This paper presents the Six-Tier Architecture for AI-Generated Software Development, an innovative framework built upon the theoretical foundations of automated software engineering. This framework leverages large language models (LLMs) to perform tasks across the software development lifecycle, from high-level abstraction to detailed code generation, thereby systematically improving the automation level of software development. A key aspect of this architecture is the integrated iterative refinement process, which ensures system consistency and enables effective modifications in response to emerging changes. By utilizing the capabilities of LLMs in automated code generation , the Six-Tier Architecture offers a robust, flexible, and dynamic approach to AI-assisted software engineering, illustrating a substantial resilience to the intrinsic changes in software development requirements and processes.
Simulation and Experimental Studies of Al Matrix Composites Reinforced with Nano Ceria Ceramics
Authors: Barodiya Dharmesh , Vishwakarma Rohit , Mughal Shaheen Beg , Jain Monil , Saraf Chinmay
Published: June 2023

Aluminum is a widely used material in the aerospace and automotive sector, and several studies have been conducted to improve the mechanical performance of aluminum during the casting process. In the present study, a novel approach is used to improve the mechanical properties of aluminum. During which the ceria ceramic was mixed with aluminum during the stir-casting process. Further, Vickers Micro Hardness Testing was used to investigate the thermo-mechanical properties of materials, such as microstructure and hardness. Additionally, the results were simulated using FEM, and significant parameters determining various thermomechanical properties of the composite were identified. The results indicate the use of ceria ceramic improves aluminum's mechanical properties.
Adoption of Augmented Reality into Nursing Education Programs in Intensive Care in Tertiary Academic Hospitals
Authors: yoo suyoung , Heo Sejin , Song Soojin , Park Aeyoung , Jo Hyung Jung , Cha Won Chul , kim Kyeongsug , Son Meong Hi
Published: June 2023

Background
The introduction of new technologies is transforming traditional educational approaches into ones that incorporate new technologies. The use of technology enhances learning by making it enjoyable and engaging, and this applies to all fields, including nursing education. While the potential of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies for remote clinical skills training has been recognized, research integrating AR into nursing education programs is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop and implement an educational program using AR and evaluate the satisfaction, usability, and acceptance of future nurses as actual users.
Objective
This study aims to utilize AR-based learning platforms to educate ICU nurses on device usage. The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative approach and document the outcomes.
Methods
The AR learning platform utilized in this study was based on Kern's six-step approach, widely used in educational research when introducing new teaching methods. To identify existing issues, interviews were conducted with four nursing education experts, and their insights were incorporated into the development of the AR-based program. Two AR educational programs were developed and applied to actual users, followed by evaluations. The evaluation process consisted of interviews and surveys conducted with four developers and operators to ascertain the necessity of the AR learning program, as well as interviews and surveys conducted with program users.
Results
Overall, the evaluation of AR-based education was positive with participants indicating that AR could improve their actual clinical performance. AR is a technology suitable for self-directed or hands-on learning theory those who interested in experience and self-learning rated the program particularly well. Nurses were found to be receptive to education using new technology.
Conclusions
This study highlights the potential of using AR in nursing education as a successful alternative to traditional education in terms of self-directed learning and practical training. By strategically integrating AR into educational programs, trainees were able to gain valuable practical experience in a safe and controlled environment while maintaining control over their learning journey. The utilization of AR technology fostered active participation, learner-centered self-directed learning, and technological advancement, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of medical education programs.
Exploring Non-English Major Students' Attitudes towards Technology and Preferred Learning Tools at Ho Chi Minh City University of Food Industry
Authors: Hanh Ngo Thi Ngoc
Published: June 2023

Several methods are being used by a growing number of pupils to better their grasp of the English language. The purpose of this research was to collect student feedback on how best to implement and leverage technology in the classroom. The term "technology" is used interchangeably with "digital technology" throughout this study. The primary objectives of this study are to (1) investigate the attitudes of students at Ho Chi Minh City University of Food Industry (HUFI) toward the use of technology in the classroom, (2) identify the types of technological resources that are most popular among HUFI students, and (3) investigate the ways in which these attitudes differ between different groups of students. These three inquiries are designed to learn more about them. The author surveyed 153 students enrolled in English 2 after completing English 1 for a total of 30 weeks. These students came from the Chinese Language, Business Administration, Mechanical Engineering, and Tourism departments. The research points to connections between learner dispositions, cognitive factors, and technological participation. Another key distinction is that boys, in general, are better at using technological devices than girls.
Optimization of urban water pipe network design using fast-messy genetic algorithms (fmGA)
Authors: Alemaw Berhanu Fanta , Jankie Tshepo E.
Published: June 2023

To have an efficient water distribution network, optimal design alternatives need to be identified and analysed using combined hydraulic modelling and optimization. This paper reports on the application of the fast-messy genetic algorithm (fmGA) coupled with hydraulic modelling tool EPANET to assess and select an optimum design and operational alternative for a water distribution pipe network. The sole objective of the optimization modelling was to minimize network costs subject to hydraulic and design constraints. The fmGA was first tested using the benchmark case study of the Hanoi network and then applied to the real network of Maun, Botswana which is considered as the case study. We have compared our results of the fmGA model application with other optimization techniques applied to the Hanoi network. The findings of the test revealed that the fmGA is superior to other popular metaheuristic optimization methods in terms of processing speed with comparable accuracy and pressure constraints fulfilled for all nodes. It also provides the best solution. For the water distribution network of Maun, the best pipeline configuration and route were determined, in which Configuration B is found to be the best and least cost solution to improve the water supply situation in Maun.
Additive Manufacturing-3D Printing in Product Design Education: Learning experiences using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Authors: Ahmad Zamri Ahmad Fazlan , Ahmad Sayuti Nurul 'Ayn , Ab Hamid Abu Hanifa , Mohd Noor Muhamad Aiman Afiq
Published: June 2023

This research on the participation of industrial design students’ experiences in 3D printing and 3D modelling demonstrates that they are successful in fully utilising additive manufacturing in the design process and as a final fabrication method in the product design area. The project begins with the literature review, prototyping tests, and students' participation in 3D modelling in the specific subject of industrial design. The outcome shared a guideline for how to use Rapid Prototyping (RP) 3D Printers in the model-making and prototyping processes. The result was an example of a design project practice that was made by modelling and then printed with 3D printing.
Influencing Factors to mHealth Uptake With Indigenous Populations: Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Goodman Andrew , Mahoney Ray , Spurling Geoffrey , Lawler Sheleigh
Published: June 2023

Background

The advancements and abundance of mobile phones and portable health devices have created an opportunity to use mobile health (mHealth) for population health systems. There is increasing evidence for the feasibility and acceptance of mHealth with Indigenous populations. Providing a synthesis of qualitative findings of mHealth with Indigenous populations will gain insights into the strengths and challenges to mHealth use in Indigenous populations.

Objective

This review aimed to identify and synthesize qualitative data pertaining to the experiences and perceptions of mHealth from the perspectives of end users (patients and service providers) living in the colonial settler democracies of Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the Pacific Islands, and the Sápmi region of northern Europe.

Methods

In May 2021, systematic searches of peer-reviewed, scientific papers were conducted across the 5 databases of PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Qualitative or mixed method studies were included where a mHealth intervention was the primary focus for responding to health challenges with Indigenous populations. Two authors independently screened papers for eligibility and assessed the risk of bias using a modified version of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. A meta-aggregative approach was used to analyze the findings of included studies.

Results

Seventeen papers met the eligibility criteria, 8 studies with patients, 7 studies with service providers, and 2 studies that included both patients and service providers. Studies were conducted in Australia (n=10), Canada (n=2), New Zealand (n=2), Papua New Guinea (n=1), the United States (n=1), and Samoa (n=1). Our interpretation of these qualitative findings shows commonalities between Indigenous patients’ and service providers’ perceptions of mHealth. We summarize our findings in six themes: (1) mHealth literacy, (2) mHealth as a facilitator for connection and support, (3) mHealth content needed to be culturally relevant, (4) mHealth security and confidentiality, (5) mHealth supporting rather than replacing service providers, and (6) workplace and organizational capacity.

Conclusions

This research suggests that mHealth can meet the needs of both patients and service providers when the mHealth intervention is culturally relevant, accounts for digital and health literacy, incorporates interactive components, is supported by workplaces, fits into health provider workflows, and meets security and confidentiality standards. Future mHealth research with Indigenous populations should partner with key representatives (eg, patients, service providers, and executive leaders) in the mHealth design appropriate to the purpose, people, setting, and delivery.
Profitability of Actors in the Value Chain of Commercial Rice
Authors: B. Pumihic Mercedes
Published: June 2023

This qualitative study explored the value chain of commercial rice in Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines. It presented the value chain map of commercial rice highlighting the profitability of each actor involved in the value chain, namely paddy rice farmers, primary traders, millers, retailers, and final traders (wholesalers and retailers). The findings revealed that the miller contributes the highest value-added cost to commercial rice production, accounting for approximately 40.39% of the total, followed closely by the farmers at 39.22%. The primary trader represented 10.93%, while the wholesaler and retailer contributed 6.72% and 2.07% respectively. Analysis of the percentage of profit to cost showed that farmers earned the highest percentage at 32.36%, followed by the retailer at 8.48%, the primary trader at 5.11%, the miller at 2.32%, and the wholesaler at 1.68%. However, when considering the operating cycle of each actor, it became apparent that the primary trader emerged as the highest-earning actor due to their shorter operating cycle compared to other actors in the value chain. Hence, venturing into paddy rice production, trading, milling, and wholesaling of commercial rice in Nueva Vizcaya is profitable, given the wide market demand for rice as a staple food. There is a viable opportunity to enhance profitability among the various actors in the value chain, particularly for farmers, by leveraging appropriate government support programs, specifically by maximizing the utilization of initiatives provided under the Rice Tariffication Law.
Fundamentos teóricos para diseñar cuadros de clasificación como sustento de la legislación archivística en México
Authors: Reyes Olvera Guadalupe Mireya
Published: June 2023

Desde la aprobación de importantes disposiciones en materia archivística, las instituciones públicas en México tienen la obligación de diseñar sus propias herramientas documentales. Al revisar la teoría archivística se comprueba que esta ciencia cuenta con una metodología que contribuye a la correcta organización de archivos. No obstante, en la práctica, los criterios metodológicos que se han implementado son diversos debido a falta de homogeneización como establece la ley. Esto, a pesar de que el Archivo General de la Nación formuló un Instructivo para construir cuadros de clasificación.
Derivado de lo anterior, en esta investigación se establecen tres criterios metodológicos para elaborar cuadros de clasificación. Los aspectos que se proponen tienen fundamento teórico en la archivística. El primer criterio, el estudio de la institución y sus funciones, a través de la identificación de los procedimientos administrativos que ejecuta, a partir de la normatividad que le da sustento jurídico como organismo. El segundo criterio, el principio de procedencia, el elemento científico archivístico en el que se sustenta el proceso de clasificación. Y, el tercero, el estudio de los antecedentes de la institución productora, para conocer el contexto administrativo en el que se han generado los documentos que conforman el archivo.
Design Analysis of Dehydration Trays for Farm Products
Authors: Sonawane Mr. Milind Devidas
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Dehydration of fruits and vegetables is one of the oldest types of preservation techniques well known to man and consists mainly of sun drying or artificial drying of fruits and vegetables. Although food preservation is the primary reason for dehydration, dehydration of fruits and vegetables also reduces the cost of packaging, storage and transportation by reducing the burden and volume of the final product.
About asymptotic properties of bilinear difference equations under stochastic perturbations
Authors: Shaikhet Leonid
Published: June 2023

Rational bilinear difference equations are very popular in research. In
this paper the asymptotic properties of a rational bilinear difference
equation are studied under stochastic perturbations. It is assumed that
stochastic perturbations are proportional to the deviation of the
current value of the equation solution from one of its equilibria (the
zero or nonzero). Some conditions are obtained under which the
considered equilibrium is stable in probability or unstable. The
obtained results are illustrated by numerical simulation of solutions of
the considered stochastic difference equation. It is noted that the
research method used here can be applied to study many other types of
nonlinear difference equations. To readers attention some unsolved
problem of stabilization by noise for stochastic difference equations is
also proposed.