bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticancer Activities of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Testa Extract in Combination With Cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil Against Cholangiocarcinoma Cells In Vitro and in Mouse Xenograft Models
Authors: Jeeunngoi Jarckrit , Senawong Gulsiri , Jogloy Sanun , Prompipak Jeerati , Samankul Arunta , Utaiwat Suppawit , Woranam Khanutsanan , Sripa Banchob , Senawong Thanaset
Published: July 2024

Cholangiocarcinoma is an aggressive cancer with limited treatment options. Current therapies, such as cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), often cause side effects and drug resistance. This study investigated a potential new approach by combining a peanut skin extract (KK4-PSE) with these drugs. The extract effectively inhibited the growth of cholangiocarcinoma cells in laboratory studies and showed even greater selectivity for cancer cells compared to healthy cells. When combined with cisplatin or 5-FU, KK4-PSE enhanced the drugs' effects, leading to cell cycle arrest and increased cell death. These combined treatments also reduced levels of proteins that promote cancer cell survival. In animal models, KK4-PSE combined with 5-FU showed superior tumor suppression compared to the combination with cisplatin. Overall, these findings suggest that KK4-PSE may be a promising synergistic agent to improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy for cholangiocarcinoma, warranting further clinical investigation.
Stealth Metasomatism in Granulites from Ivrea (NW Italy): Hydration of the (Variscan) Lower Crust by Melt Flow
Authors: Karastergios Stylianos , Ferrando Simona , Kunz Barbara E. , Frezzotti Maria Luce
Published: July 2024

Granulites and associated dykes from the less well studied southern Ivrea-Verbano Zone (IVZ; around Ivrea town) are characterized by combining field, macro, micro and chemical (major and trace-element mineral composition) data in order to identify chemical and rheological variations in the lower crust that could be relevant for geodynamic implications. The Ivrea granulites are similar to those belonging to the Lower Mafic Complex of the central IVZ. The mafic lithologies experienced a stealth metasomatism (pargasitic amphibole and An-rich plagioclase) that occurred at suprasol-idus conditions by a pervasive reactive porous flow of mantle-derived orogenic (hydrous) basaltic melts infiltrated along relatively few, likely deformation-assisted, channels. Similar metasomatic melts are already reported in the central and northern IVZ, suggesting a massive regional hydration of the lowermost Southalpine mafic crust during the Early Mesozoic. The plastic behavior of the lowermost part of the crust, induced by its metasomatic hydration, could have promoted the Tri-assic extension of the Variscan crust and the beginning of the Alpine cycle.
Enhancing Supplier Engagement through Technology: A Qualitative Exploration of E-Commerce Strategies
Authors: Grant Oliver
Published: July 2024

This qualitative research explores the integration of digital technologies to enhance supplier engagement in e-commerce, examining the transformative impact of AI, blockchain, and IoT on supplier relationship management (SRM). Through semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis with 15 industry experts, the study reveals that digital technologies enable organizations to optimize supply chain operations, improve transparency, and foster collaborative partnerships with suppliers. Strategic initiatives such as co-development projects and joint innovation efforts are pivotal in accelerating product development cycles and enhancing market competitiveness. Emotional intelligence (EI) emerges as critical in cultivating trust, empathy, and effective communication, underscoring the human dimension of supplier relationships amidst technological advancements. Challenges identified include technological complexity, data privacy concerns, and resistance to change, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures and proactive compliance strategies. Economically, organizations benefit from significant cost savings, improved efficiency, and enhanced profitability through digital transformation initiatives in SRM. By leveraging digital platforms and data-driven insights, organizations can optimize procurement processes, streamline operations, and mitigate risks to achieve sustainable growth and resilience.
Extreme Behavior of Competing Risks with Random Sample Size
Authors: Bai Long , Hu Kaihao , Wen Conghua , Tan Zhongquan , Ling Chengxiu
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the impact of random sample sizes on the extreme value theory of competing risks, a significant area in finance and environmental science. We capture limit distributions of two extreme types under random sampling sizes, known as accelerated mixed l-max and p-max stable type distributions. The study presents results for both maxima and minima in competing risks scenarios, addressing cases of independent and non-independent random sample sizes. Numerical examples validate our theoretical findings, demonstrating the applicability of our approach to various random sample size distributions, including time-shifted Poisson or binomial, geometric, and negative binomial distributions.
Exploring the Multifaceted Genus Acinetobacter: The Facts, the Concerns and the Opportunities
Authors: Muleshkova Tsvetana , Bazukyan Inga , Papadimitriou Konstantinos , Gotcheva Velitchka , Angelov Angel , Dimov Svetoslav G.
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the research community has been interested in members of the Acinetobacter genus mainly because of their role as causative agents of nosocomial infections. However, this rich-in-species genus has been proven to play a significant role in different biotechnological processes, such as bioremediation and fermented foods production. To partially fill the lack of information on Acinetobacter’s dualistic nature, in this review, based on literature data, we attempt to summarize the available information on the different roles the members of the genus play by considering their genetic constitution and metabolic properties. We found pieces of evidence of genetic divergence between the pathogenic and non-pathogenic species and strains, which can be explained by their high adaptability to the different ecological niches. In turn, this adaptability could result from intrinsic genetic variability due to mechanisms of horizontal genetic transfer, as well as high mutability determined by the expression of error-prone DNA polymerases. Yet, further studies are needed, especially whole-genome sequencing of non-pathogenic isolates, which for the moment are relatively scarce.
Cognitive Load and Dual-Task Performance in Individuals with and without Forward Head Posture
Authors: Abu-Ghosh Shorouk , Moustafa Ibrahim M. , Ahbouch Amal , Oakley Paul A. , Harrison Deed E.
Published: July 2024

Background: Recent studies have found forward head posture (FHP) to be associated with altered physiology, however, there is a lack of research into whether FHP is associated with altered gait parameters when cognitively challenged. The current study was undertaken to investigate the changes in gait parameters in asymptomatic individuals with FHP when a cognitive dual task is introduced during walking. Methods: Ninety asymptomatic participants were recruited, 45 having FHP defined as having a craniovertebral angle (CVA) < 50, and 45 sex and age-matched controls having normal head posture (NHP) defined as CVA > 55. All participants walked along a 10 meter platform under a control condition (no cognitive load) with 3 consecutive trials while an optical motion-capture system consisting of 8 infrared cameras was used to assess gait kinematics. Secondly, participants were assessed under a dual task cognitive load condition (3 trials while performing simple addition, counting backwards, and answering yes or no questions) to identify the impact on gait kinematics compared to the control condition. Results: Under the single task condition, there were no significant differences for any gait parameter, however, under the dual task condition, 12/13 gait parameters were significantly altered for the FHP group compared to the NHP group (p < .01). A calculation of dual task cost (DTC) percentage showed significant increases in all gait parameters in participants with FHP (p < .02). Correlations between the CVA and gait parameters were not significant for the single task condition, but all gait parameters were correlated to CVA for the dual task condition (p < .01). The correlation between CVA and DTC for all gait variables were also significant (p < .04). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that FHP significantly increases the cognitive cost during walking, highlighting the importance of proper postural alignment for maintaining cognitive function under a dual task condition. Addressing FHP through targeted interventions could improve both physical and cognitive health, enhancing overall well-being and daily functioning.
Biomacromolecules As Immunomodulators: Utilizing Nature’s Tools for Immune Regulation
Authors: Miteva Dimitrina , Kitanova Meglena , Velikova Tsvetelina
Published: July 2024

Although there are numerous available immunomodulators, those of natural origin would be preferable based on their safety profile and effectiveness. The research and clinical interest in immunomodulators have increased in the last decades, especially in the immunomodulatory properties of plant-based therapies. Innovative technologies and extensive study on immunomodulatory natural products, botanicals, extracts, and active moieties with immunomodulatory potential could provide us with valuable entities to develop as novel immunomodulatory medicines to enhance current chemotherapies. This review focuses on plant-based immunomodulatory drugs that are currently in clinical studies. However, further studies in this area are of utmost importance to obtain complete information about the positive effects of medicinal plants and their chemical components and molecules as an alternative to combatting various diseases and/or prevention.
Marine Peloids for Skin Care and Thalasso-Wellness
Authors: MOURELLE MARIA LOURDES , Gómez Carmen Paula , Kashyap Ankurita , Legido José Luis
Published: July 2024

Background: Peloids are therapeutic agents used in thermal and thalasso centers for curative, preventive, and skin care purposes. Marine peloids are those that include seawater and algae, both macro and/or microalgae. The aim of this study is to investigate the suitability of a marine peloid composed by seawater, clay and microalgae for thalasso-wellness and dermocosmetic uses; Methods: the thermophysical properties of the marine peloid were determined and compared with a non-marine peloid using different techniques as densimetry, conductimetry, calorimetry, and viscometry; skin hydration was also measured by means of Corneometry; Results: marine peloid has been shown to be suitable for thermotherapy and thalaso-wellness treatments as its thermophysical properties were similar to other peloids used for this purpose; marine peloids also showed to improve skin hydration after seven days of treatment; Conclusions: this research provides a comprehensive study of the thermophysical properties of a marine peloid composed by clay, seawater and microalgae for thalasso-wellness and cosmetic uses, as well as its moisturizing properties, highlighting its potential as a valuable natural product for skin care applications as well as for wellness treatments in form of cataplasm, poultices and/or wraps.
Genomic Selection for Growth and Wood Traits in Castanopsis hystrix
Authors: Zhang Weihua , Wei Ruiyan , Lin Yuanzhen
Published: July 2024

Castanopsis hystrix, a precious tree species in Southeast Asia, has the advantages of rapid growth and high-quality wood materials. However, there are problems such as long breeding cycle, time-consuming and low efficiency, which greatly restricts the industrial development of C. hystrix. To perform the genome selection (GS) for growth and wood traits and the early selection of superior progeny have great significance for the rapid breeding of new superior varieties of C. hystrix. The 226 clones in the main distribution and 479 progenies within 23 half-sib families were used as experimental materials in this study. Genotyping datasets were obtained by high-throughput re-sequencing technology, and GS studies were conducted on the growth (tree height (H), diameter at breast height (DBH)) and wood (wood density (WD), fiber length (FL), and fiber length-width ratio (LWR)) traits. The coefficient of variation (CV) of five phenotypic traits ranged from 10.1% to 22.73%, the average CV of growth traits was 19.93%, and the average CV of wood traits was 9.72%. The Pearson correlation coefficients between the five traits were almost significantly positive. Based on the Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (GBLUP) model, the broad-sense heritabilities of growth traits were higher than those of wood quality traits, and the different number of SNPs had little effect on the heritability estimation. GS prediction accuracy first increased and then reached a plateau around 3K SNPs for all five traits. The broad-sense heritability of these five traits was significantly positively correlated with their GS predictive ability (r=0.564, P
A Novel Five-Surface Phosphor-in-Glass for High Illumination and Excellent Color Uniformity in Larger Scale LEDs
Authors: Huang Hong-Wei , Huang Chien-Wei , Chen Yi-Chian , Shih Hsing-Kun , Cheng Wei-Chih , Liu Chun-Nien , Chiang Chia-Chin
Published: July 2024

A novel five-surface phosphor-in-glass (FS-PiG) for high illumination and excellent color uniformity in larger-scale LEDs for sensor light source application is demonstrated. YAG phosphor (Y3Al5O12:Ce3+) was uniformly mixed with ceramic and sintered at 680°C to form a phosphor wafer. A sophisticated laser engraving was employed on the phosphor wafer to form a saddle-shaped large-scale FS-PiG LEDs. The performance of the FS-PiG LEDs exhibited the illumination of 401lm, average color temperature (CCT) of 5488K±110K, and color coordinates (CIE) of (0.3179±0.003, 0.3352±0.003). In contrast to convention single-surface phosphor-in-glass (SS-PiG) LEDs, the performance exhibited the illumination of 380lm, average CCT of 5830K±758K, and CIE of (0.3083±0.07, 0.3172±0.07). These indicated that the performance of the FS-PiG LEDs was higher than the SS-PiG LEDs for illumination, CCT, and CIE of 1.7, 7, and 23 times, respectively. Furthermore, the FS-PiG LEDs demonstrate lower lumen loss of 2% and less chromaticity shift of 5.4x10-3 under accelerated aging at 350°C for 1008 hours, owing to the high ceramic melting temperature of up to 510°C. In this study, the proposed FS-PiG larger-scale LEDs having excellent optical performance and high reliability may be the promising candidates to replace the convention phosphor-in-organic silicone material used in high-power LEDs for the next generation of sensor light sources, display, and headlight applications.
Characterization of Antineoplastic Agents Inducing Taste and Smell Disorders Using the FAERS Database
Authors: Hamazaki Risa , Uesawa Yoshihiro
Published: July 2024

Taste and smell disorders can worsen the nutritional status of patients receiving chemotherapy and potentially affect drug treatment. However, there is limited knowledge on antineoplastic agents that induce taste and smell disorders. Therefore, we used the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database to analyze the characteristics of patients and antineoplastic agents in relation to taste and smell disorders. No gender differences related to onset of taste and smell disorders were found, whereas older age was identified as a possible risk factor. Among antineoplastic agent classes, protein kinase inhibitors appeared to be particularly likely to induce taste and smell disorders. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis that taste and smell disorders induced by antineoplastic agents are characterized by “disorder of taste/smell” and “decrease/change of taste and smell.” These findings might be useful in selecting drugs for patients experiencing similar side effects.
Differential Regional Textural Attributes of Tongue in Normal and Acidity Patients in the Light of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Bakshi Debasis , Nawn Debaleena , Pal Sujata , Mitra Chandana , Das Maya , Chatterjee Jyotirmoy
Published: July 2024

Introduction: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), tongue diagnosis plays an important role. Besides shape, colour and textural attributes of tongue regions have significance due to their association with different organs (viz. heart, lung, kidney-bladder, liver-gallbladder and stomach-spleen) in health and disease. Although numerous quantitative methods have been proposed to reduce inter and intra observer variability in tongue diagnosis, almost all of them considered only global colour/ textural features i.e. from entire body of tongue. In this work, regional colour and texture information of tongue have been analysed for healthy subjects (NOM) and patients suffering from chronic acidity-indigestion (ACD). Methods: Tongue boundaries are marked manually in each image and then tongue bodies are automatically partitioned into five regions linked with said internal organs. Rough assessments of regions’ boundaries are obtained from literature and then they are fine-tuned according to experts’ advice. As boundaries are not well defined, regions near the common boundary of two or more organs, are not assigned to any organ. Several first and second order statistical features based on grey scale intensities and a* values of LAB colour space (indicative of redness) have been extracted from five different regions of tongue images. Intragroup analysis using Wilcoxon signed rank test compared different regions within individual study group. Additionally, intergroup analysis using Wilcoxon rank sum test compared tongues of NOM with ACD for each region separately. Results: Intragroup analysis reveals a* values are statistically different (p<0.01) between stomach-spleen and liver-gallbladder regions for ACD while no significant change of a* are noted between these regions of normal tongue. It was found from intergroup analysis that correlation (one of the second order texture features extracted from grey scale images) of heart region has significantly decreased while correlation of kidney, liver-gallbladder and stomach-spleen regions significantly increased from NOM to ACD. Conclusion: This study sheds light on importance of inclusion of regional textural analysis of tongue in quantitative studies and can be applied to automated tongue diagnosis for other diseases.
Long-Term Bonding Performance of One-Bottle vs. Two-Bottle Bonding Agents to Lithium Disilicate Ceramics
Authors: Irie Masao , Okada Masahiro , Maruo Yukinori , Nishigawa Goro , Matsumoto Takuya
Published: July 2024

Objective: The effect of long-term performance of one-bottle or two-bottle bonding agents on the shear bond strength to lithium disilicate ceramics (LDS) were to investigate, and the long-term performance of the bond strength of two-bottle bonding agent (Tokuyama Universal Bond II) was investigated under conditions without hydrofluoric acid solution (abbreviated as HF)-pretreatment of LDS. Methods: Nine resin cements (both self-adhesive and adhesive types) were used. It was investigated 1) the adhesion strength of various resin cements to LDS from the presence or absence of HF-treatment, 2) to determine the effect of the deterioration in three times [after one-day storage (abbreviated as Base), and after 5,000 & 20,000 thermocycles (abbreviated as TC 5k and TC 20k)] of one- and two-component bonding agents. And the difference in degradation between one- and two-component bonding gents consist of the silane coupling agent was performed by chemical analysis (High Performance Liquid Chromatography). Results: The trends of resin cements were statistically not very different for each cement 3 times with HF-conditions. Also ESTECEM II and Super-Bond Universal showed the significant greatest values in two conditions (TC 5k and TC 20k) without HF-condition. In TC 20k, ESTECEM II & Super-Bond Universal showed significantly better results than others when treated with the recommended bonding agents without HF-condition. In TC 20k, there was not much statistically significant difference if pretreated with Tokuyama Universal Bond II without HF-condition. Significance: When using LDS, it was found that long-term durability could be maintained by pretreating with Tokuyama Universal Bond II without pretreating with various hazardous HFs.
Development and Test of Low-Cost Multi-channel Multi-frequency Lock-In Amplifier for Health and Environment Sensing
Authors: Pollastrone Fabio , Fiorani Luca , Bisauriya Ramanand , Menicucci Ivano , Ciceroni Claudio , Pizzoferrato Roberto
Published: July 2024

Laser Photoacoustic Spectrometers (LPAS), which provide photoacoustic spectra for detecting food frauds or adulteration, and fluorescence-based systems for recognition of contamination by heavy metal ions in water are two important families of sensors for health and environmental purposes. Both sensor families require one or more low-frequency Lock-In Amplifiers (LIAs) to extract the signal of interest from background noise. In the cited applications, the required LIA frequency is quite low (up to 1kHz), and this leads to a simplification of the hardware with consequent good results in portability, economy, reduced size, weight and low-cost characteristics. The present system, called ENEA DSP Box Due, is based on a very inexpensive microcontroller proto-board and can replace four commercial LIAs, resulting in significant savings in both cost and space. Furthermore, it incorporates a dual-channel oscilloscope and a sinusoidal function generator. This article outlines the architecture of the ENEA DSP Box Due, its electrical characterization and its applications within a project concerning laser techniques for food and water safety.
A Study to Investigate the Role and Challenges Associated to the Use of Deep Learning in Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Aljehane Nojood Obaidallah
Published: July 2024

The application of deep learning in autonomous vehicles has surged over the years with the advances in technologies. This research explores the integration of deep learning algorithms into autonomous vehicles (AVs), focusing on their role in perception, decision-making, localization, mapping, and navigation. It shows that deep learning, which as a part of machine learning, mimics the human brain's neural networks, enabling advancements in perception, decision-making, localization, mapping, and overall navigation. Techniques like convolutional neural networks are used for image detection and steering control, while deep learning is crucial for path planning, automated parking, and traffic maneuvering. Localization and mapping are essential for AVs' navigation, with deep learning-based object detection mechanisms like Faster R-CNN and YOLO proving effective in real-time obstacle detection. Apart from the roles, the study also revealed that integration of deep learning in AVs faces challenges such as dataset uncertainty, sensor challenges, and model training intricacies. However, these issues can be addressed through increased standardization of sensors, real-life testing for model training, and advancements in model compression technologies can optimize the performance of deep learning in AVs. The study concludes that deep learning plays a crucial role in enhancing the safety and reliability of AV navigation. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the optimal integration of deep learning in AVs, aiming to foster their safety, reliability, and societal acceptance.
The Role of Line-Field Confocal Optical Coherence Tomography in Detecting Extramammary Paget Disease Recurrences: A Pilot Diagnostic Study
Authors: Diet Gwendoline , Lenoir Clément , Fontaine Margot , Boussingault Lucas , Orte Cano Carmen , Mtimet Lyna , Liénard Danielle , Sanak Dilara , Moulart Florine , Bernardi Dana , Trepant Anne-Laure , Perez-Anker Javiera , Puig Susana , Malvehy Josep , Cinotti Elisa , Tognetti Linda , Rubegni Pietro , Perrot Jean-Luc , Marmol Véronique Del , Suppa Mariano
Published: July 2024

Extramammary Paget disease (EMPD) is an uncommon adenocarcinoma of apocrine gland-rich areas, presenting significant diagnostic challenges due to its nonspecific clinical appearance and frequent misidentification as benign, inflammatory skin conditions. Traditional diagnostic methods such as biopsy are invasive and uncomfortable, often required repeatedly due to high recurrence rates. Dermoscopy and non-invasive imaging techniques have been used but provide limited diagnostic accuracy due to their constraints in depth penetration and resolution. Recent advancements in imaging technologies, such as line-field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC-OCT), show promise in enhancing diagnostic precision while minimizing invasive procedures. LC-OCT merges high-resolution imaging with deep penetration capabilities, capturing detailed horizontal and vertical skin images akin to histopathology. This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of LC-OCT in detecting EMPD and its recurrence in 17 clinically suspicious anogenital regions, belonging to 6 patients. Data were collected prospectively at patient bedside by an LC-OCT expert with poor training for EMPD; and, then, reviewed retrospectively by an independent LC-OCT expert with adequate training for EMPD and no concerns about time. The prospective examination yielded 64.7%-accuracy, 71.4%-sensitivity, and 33.3%-specificity. The retrospective analysis achieved 94.1%-accuracy, 100%-sensitivity, and 66.7%-specificity, with the only false positive case being a difficult-to-diagnose concomitant presentation of a lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. Despite the need for specialized training, our results suggest that LC-OCT represents a valuable tool for accurately identifying EMPD and improve its management by reducing unnecessary biopsies. Further studies are needed to standardize its clinical application.
Size Uniformity of CsPbBr3 Perovskite Quantum Dots via Manganese-Doping
Authors: Zhang Mi , Han Xue , Yang Changgang , Zhang Guofeng , Guo Wenli , Li Jialu , Chen Zhihao , Li Bin , Chen Ruiyun , Qin Chengbing , Hu Jianyong , Yang Zhichun , Zeng Ganying , Xiao Liantuan , Jia Suotang
Published: July 2024

The achievement of size uniformity and monodispersity in perovskite quantum dots (QDs) requires the implementation of precise temperature control and the establishment of optimal reaction conditions. Nevertheless, the accurate control of a range of reaction variables represents a considerable challenge. This study addresses the aforementioned challenge by employing manganese (Mn) doping to achieve size uniformity in CsPbBr3 perovskite QDs without the necessity for precise control of the reaction conditions. By optimizing the Mn:Pb ratio, it is possible to successfully dope CsPbBr3 QDs with appropriate concentrations of Mn²⁺ and achieve a uniform size distribution. The spectroscopic measurements on single QDs indicate that the appropriate Mn²⁺ concentrations can result in a narrower spectral linewidth, a longer photoluminescence (PL) lifetime, and a reduced biexciton Auger recombination rate, thus positively affecting the PL properties. This study not only simplifies the size control of perovskite QDs, but also demonstrates the potential of Mn-doped CsPbBr3 QDs for narrow linewidth light-emitting diode applications.
Community-Acquired Klebsiella pneumoniae KPC Invasive Infection: Argentine Case Report
Authors: Castro Maximiliano
Published: July 2024

The incidence of infections due to carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) is rising worldwide. We present the case of a 48-year-old female patient, diabetic, with previous episodes of urinary tract infections that was admitted due to pyelonephritis, later identified to be caused by KPC and ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. Both the patient and her family had no strong epidemiological link with the healthcare system, and for this reason, this case stands out in regional literature since similar reports are scarce and therefore constitutes a reason for alert in health institutions. Further studies are needed in order to ascertain the real incidence of these infections in community settings in Latin America and the Caribbean.
On proving an Inequality of Ramanujan using Explicit Order Estimates of the Mertens Function
Authors: De Subham
Published: July 2024

This research article provides an unconditional proof of an inequality proposed by \textit{Srinivasa Ramanujan} involving the Prime Counting Function $\pi(x)$, \begin{align*} (\pi(x))^{2}<\frac{ex}{\log x}\pi\left(\frac{x}{e}\right) \end{align*} for every real $x\geq \exp(1486)$, using specific order estimates of the \textit{Mertens Function}, $M(x)$. The proof primarily hinges upon investigating the underlying relation between $M(x)$ and the \textit{Second Chebyshev Function}, $\psi(x)$, in addition to applying the meromorphic properties of the \textit{Riemann Zeta Function}, $\zeta(s)$ with an intention of deriving an improved approximation for $\pi(x)$.
Efficacy of a Comprehensive and Personalized Approach for Frail Older People in Valencia (Spain): A Pre-Post Controlled Trial
Authors: Fernández-Salido Mirian , Alhambra-Borrás Tamara , Garcés-Ferrer Jorge
Published: July 2024

Frailty is a common condition in older adults that negatively impacts health and quality of life. This study evaluated a comprehensive, personalized, and coordinated intervention under the Value-Based Care approach to address frailty's multidimensional nature in older people. It em-ployed a pre-post randomized controlled design, involving frail individuals over 65 years in Valencia, Spain. Assessments were conducted at baseline, 12 months (immediately post-intervention), and 18 months. The intervention included a personalized care plan supported by technology, with monthly motivational follow-ups and plan updates by health professionals and participants. Outcomes were measured using an assessment questionnaire that included the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement dataset for the older population: physical health, physical functioning, general mental health, satisfaction with social activities and relationships, ability to carry out usual social roles and activities, pain, general quality of life, loneliness, physical frailty, psychological frailty and social frailty. The study found signifi-cant improvements in physical frailty, quality of life, reduced health resource use and hospitali-zations, and lower levels of pain and depression/anxiety compared to baseline. The findings suggest further research into value-based care approaches, emphasizing the development and activation of personalized, comprehensive programs for older individuals with frailty.
Design and Modelling of MEMS Vibrating Internal Ring Gyroscopes for Harsh Environments
Authors: Gill Waqas Amin , Howard Ian , Mazhar Ilyas , McKee Kristoffer
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the design, modelling, and comparative analysis of two internal MEMS vibrating ring gyroscopes for harsh environmental conditions. The proposed designs investigate the symmetric structure of the vibrating ring gyroscopes that operate at the identical shape of wine glass mode resonance frequencies for both driving and sensing purposes. This approach improves the gyroscope’s sensitivity and precision in rotational motion. The analysis starts with the investigation of the dynamic behaviour of the vibrating ring gyroscope with the detailed derivation of motion equations. A comprehensive evaluation of the design geometry, meshing technology, and simulation results presented on two internal vibrating ring gyroscopes. The two designs are distinguished by their support spring configurations and internal ring structures. Design I comprises eight semicircular support springs and Design II comprises with sixteen semicircular support springs. These designs were modelled and analyzed using finite element analysis (FEA) in Ansys software. The paper further evaluates static and dynamic performance, emphasizing mode matching and temperature stability. The results reveal that Design II, with additional support springs, offers better mode matching, higher resonance frequencies, and better thermal stability compared to Design I. Additionally, electrostatic, modal, and harmonic analyses highlight the gyroscope's behaviour under varying DC voltages and environmental conditions. Furthermore, the study investigates the impact of temperature fluctuations on performance, demonstrating the robustness of the designs within a temperature range of -100°C to 100°C. These research findings suggest that the internal vibrating ring gyroscopes are highly suitable for harsh conditions such as high-temperature applications and space applications.
Managing Newborn Screening Recollections For Sick And Preterm Neonates
Authors: Greaves Ronda , Northfield Jo-Ann , Cross Lauren , Mawad Nazha , Nguyen Thanh , Tan Maggie , O'Connell Michele , Pitt James
Published: July 2024

Some preterm and sick neonates have altered biochemical profiles and follow-up newborn screening (NBS) collections are recommended. The Victorian NBS program historically recommended recollections for babies with birth weight <1500g (managed by the maternity service provider) and 3 weeks post-transfusion (managed by the laboratory). We aimed to determine adherence to current guidelines and review the guidelines to improve NBS performance. To do this we audited data from 348,584 babies between January 2018 and June 2022. Babies with a recorded birth weight of <1500g were filtered for inclusion. For the overall review and visualization of the protocol, we sourced information from the literature, our professional society and tertiary hospital services. A total of 2647 babies had a birth weight recorded between 200 and 1499g. Of these 2036 (77%) had a second sample collected, indicating that >1 in 5 babies were not receiving a follow-up collection. Our timing of recollections for transfused babies, requiring a 3-week follow-up collection, was longer than in other Australasian jurisdictions. A new combined “sick-prem-protocol” was launched to support recollections and after a one-year review achieve 95% compliance. We recommend NBS laboratories audit preterm and sick neonate recollections to ensure appropriate follow-up. This should be supported with a visual process map to aid education and compliance.
Entropy-Driven Crystallization of Hard Colloidal Mixtures of Polymers and Monomers
Authors: Bouzid Olia , Martínez-Fernández Daniel , Herranz Miguel , Karayiannis Nikos Ch.
Published: July 2024

The self-assembly is an intriguing process of great importance in general soft matter and thus re-ceives an ever-growing scientific interest. Its most trivial example is the entropy-driven crystalli-zation of hard spheres. Past works have established the similarities and differences in the phase behavior of monomers and chains made of hard spheres. In the present work, inspired by the dif-ference in the melting points of the pure components, we study, through Monte Carlo simulations, the phase behavior of athermal mixtures composed of fully flexible polymers and individual monomers of uniform size. We analyze how the relative number fraction and the packing density affect crystallization and the established ordered morphologies. A synergetic effect is observed in the crystallization leading to synchronous crystallization of the two species. Structural analysis of the resulting ordered morphologies shows perfect mixing and thus no phase separation, which could split the system into polymer-rich and monomer-rich domains. Due to the constraints imposed by chain connectivity, the local environment of the individual spheres is systematically more spherical and more symmetric compared to the one of spheres belonging to chains. In general, increasing polymer content leads to reduction of the degree of crystallinity. According to the present findings, relative concentration is another determining factor to control the phase behavior of hard colloidal systems based on polymers.
TM – IoV : A Dataset for the Trust Management in the Internet of Vehicles
Authors: Wang Yingxun , Mahmood Adnan , Mohd Sabri Mohamad Faizrizwan , Zen Hushairi
Published: July 2024

The emerging and promising paradigm of the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) employ vehicle-to-everything communication for facilitating vehicles to not only communicate with one another but also with the supporting roadside infrastructure, vulnerable pedestrians, and the backbone network in a bid to primarily address a number of safety-critical vehicular applications. Nevertheless, owing to the inherent characteristics of IoV networks, in particular, of being (a) highly dynamic in nature and which results in a continual change in the network topology and (b) non-deterministic owing to the intricate nature of its entities and their interrelationships, they are susceptible to a number of malicious attacks. Such sort of attacks, if and when materializes, jeopardizes the entire IoV network, thereby putting the human lives at risk. Whilst the cryptographic-based mechanisms are capable of mitigating the external attacks, the internal attacks are extremely hard to tackle. Trust, therefore, is an indispensable tool since it facilitates in the timely identification and eradication of malicious entities responsible for launching internal attacks in an IoV network. To date, there is no dataset pertinent to trust management in the context of IoV networks and the same has proven to be a bottleneck for conducting an in-depth research in this domain. The manuscript-at-hand, accordingly, presents a first of its kind trust-based IoV dataset encompassing 96,707 interactions amongst 79 vehicles at different time instances. The dataset involves 9 salient trust parameters, i.e., packet delivery ratio, similarity, external similarity, internal similarity, familiarity, external familiarity, internal familiarity, reward / punishment, and context, which play a considerable role for ascertaining the trust of a vehicle within an IoV network.
Hydrogen Bonding in Amorphous Indomethacin
Authors: Benmore Chris J , Yarger Jeffrey L. , Davidowski Stephen , Shrader Cyd , Smith Pamela , Byrn Stephen R
Published: July 2024

Amorphous Indomethacin has enhanced bioavailability over its’ crystalline forms, yet amorphous forms can still possess a wide variety of structures. Here, Empirical Potential Structure Refinement (EPSR) has been used to provide accurate molecular models on the structure of five different amorphous Indomethacin samples, that are consistent with their high energy x-ray diffraction patterns. It is found that the majority of molecules in amorphous Indomethacin are non-bonded or bonded to one neighboring molecule via a single hydrogen bond, in contrast the doubly bonded dimers found in the crystalline state. The EPSR models further indicate a substantial variation in hydrogen bonding between different amorphous forms, leading to a diversity of chain structures not found in any known crystal structures. The majority of hydrogen bonds are associated with the carboxylic acid group, although a significant number of amide hydrogen bonding interactions are also found in the models. Evidence of some dipole-dipole interactions are also observed in the more structurally ordered models. The results are consistent a distribution of Z-isomer intra-molecular type conformations in the more disordered structures, that dis-tort when stronger inter-molecular hydrogen bonding occurs. The findings are supported by 1H and 2H NMR studies of the hydrogen bond dynamics in amorphous Indomethacin.
Quality of life of children and adolescents with oncohematological diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zhukovskaya E.V. ,   Dmitry Rogachev National Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Alekseeva S.I. , Nikitina T.P. , Miloserdova Yu.S. , Karelin A.F. , Popa A.V. ,   Dmitry Rogachev National Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Moscow City Pedagogical University, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation,   Dmitry Rogachev National Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Dmitry Rogachev National Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Dmitry Rogachev National Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic is affecting the somatic and mental health of populations across the planet. Patients with cancer form a risk group with severe complications of COVID-19. The objective of the study was to examine the quality of life of children and adolescents after completion of antitumor therapy in a pandemic setting. Materials and methods. Specialists from of the clinical and rehabilitation scientific center “Russkoye pole” of the Dmitri Rogachev National Medical Research Center for Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology conducted a comparative analysis of the results of testing patients and their parents according to the PedsQL™4.0 questionnaires. Results. Patients hospitalized in 2021 have lower physical functioning parameters (63.62) than patients hospitalized before the pandemic in the first half of 2019 (70.89), p < 0.001. Parents reported significantly more positive attitudes towards quality of life assessments during the pandemic compared to those made by children. Conclusion. Differences in quality of life scores between patients in remission of oncohematological diseases before the pandemic and in the pandemic setting based on both children's and parents' assessments have been identified, which may be due to the impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic on some aspects of child and adolescent functioning. Key words: quality of life, oncohematological diseases, COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, children
Simulation of Gas Sweetening Process using Extended NRTL and Stages Efficiency as Modeling Approach
Authors: Kurniawan Aditya , Yusuf Yusmardhany , Hazimizzufar Ahnaf , Herviansyah Wildan Zanuar
Published: July 2024

Gas sweetening is a process to remove CO2 and H2S from natural gas. The current established technology is by using Amine contactor where the solvent used is in form of Amine solution. To simulate the effect of different solvent, electrolyte-NRTL is used to model the equilibrium, and mass transfer-kinetic is used to model the rate-based processes. This modeling approach is rather complex and available only in commercial and proprietary process simulation software. Therefore we propose an alternative modeling approach where we use extended NRTL and stage efficiency to model the acid gas absorption processes. We find that this approach is quite good to describe CO2 absorption, yet unsuccessful to calculate the H2S absorption. Inadequate vapor liquid equilibrium parameter regression for H2S, specifically at low partial pressure might cause the problem. However the stage efficiency approach shows good result where it is comparable to rate-based model and corresponds to current understanding of physico-chemical phenomenon of acid gas absorption.
EFFECT OF TRUST, EASE, AND USEFULNESS ON FINTECH REPURCHASE INTENTION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: Gunawan Winda , Sumantyo Riwi , Putri Novi Tri
Published: July 2024

The research was conducted to determine the effect of trust, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness on the repurchase intention of financial technology among students at Universitas Sebelas Maret. The researchers aimed to understand how these factors influenced studen’s' decisions to continue using Cicil.co.id, a financial technology service designed to assist students with financing their educational needs. The research aimed to examine the effects of trust, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness on student’s repurchase intentions of Cicil.co.id, a financial technology service for educational financing, among Universitas Sebelas Maret students. Using primary data from distributed questionnaires, the study applied validity and reliability tests and multiple linear regression analysis via SPSS version 22. Findings revealed that trust and perceived ease of use significantly influenced repurchase intentions, while perceived usefulness did not.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROCRASTINATION AND SKEPTICISM OF FEB UNS STUDENTS ON INTEREST IN INVESTING
Authors: Kristianto Yehezkiel Yoga Nugraha Adi , Sumantyo Riwi , Wijayadne Devi Rahnjen
Published: July 2024

The habits of students who prefer to procrastinate and doubt something, also influence the attitude in starting an action, one of which is the interest in investing. Student interest in investing is relatively low although the majority of majors in the faculties of economics and business will get knowledge related to the capital market. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a relationship between the character of students in procrastination (procrastination) and skepticism (hesitation) of the students of the Faculty of Economics and Business at Sebelas Maret University on the interest in investing in the capital market. This research is a quantitative study with a sample of research using the Stratified Sampling technique, which is based on the level of levels that exist among FEB UNS students (Diploma-3, Strata-1, Masters, and Doctor). The instrument used was an online questionnaire. Data is processed through the SPSS program using multiple regression analysis and cross tabulation. The results showed that procrastination has a negative and significant effect on the interest in investing in students. Meanwhile, skepticism has a positive and significant effect on the interest in investing in students.
ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCE MARRIED WOMEN’S DECISION TO WORK IN BANYUPUTIH VILLAGE, JEPARA REGENCY
Authors: Ramadhani Dita , Prasetyani Dwi , Sari Vita Kartika , Patoni Abdus Sihab
Published: July 2024

Gender equality and employment opportunities provide a great opportunity for women to enter the labor market. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the decision of married women to work in Banyuputih Village, Jepara Regency. Banyuputih village was chosen as a research location because of the existence of a manufacturing industry that was able to boost the village's economy. The number of samples used in the study were 100 respondents in accordance with the objectives of the study. The independent variables used are the level of education, husband's income and the number of children under five. Data analysis was performed using Binary Logistic Regression because the dependent variable was in the form of dummy. The analysis showed that the level of education had a positive and significant effect, while the husband's income variable and the number of children under five had a negative and significant effect on the decision of married women to work in Banyuputih Village.
ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING REGIONAL ECONOMIC GROWTH (CASE STUDY IN SOLO RAYA 2010-2018)
Authors: Utama Faisal Yoga , Ismoyowati Dewi
Published: July 2024

This study aims to determine the effect of the degree of fiscal decentralization, capital expenditure, and human development index on regional economic growth. This research was conducted on all regencies/municipalities within the scope of the Ex-Karesidenan Surakarta in 2010-2017. The data source used in this research is secondary data taken from the Directorate General of Fiscal Balance website and the Central Bureau of Statistics which is then subjected to further data processing. The data analysis method used is multiple linear regression test using panel data. The results showed that the degree of fiscal decentralization, capital expenditure, and human development index each had a positive and significant effect on regional economic growth. In addition, the degree of fiscal decentralization, capital expenditure, and human development index simultaneously or together have a significant effect on regional economic growth.