bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Application of Machine Learning Techniques in Geotechnical Engineering: A Review and Comparison
Authors: Shao Wei , Yue Wenhan , Zhang Ye , Zhou Tianxing , Zhang Yutong , Dang Yabin , Wang Haoyu , Feng Xianhui , Chao Zhiming
Published: September 2023

With the development of data collection and storage capabilities in recent decades, abundant data have been accumulated in geotechnical engineering fields, providing opportunities for the usage of machine learning approaches. Thus, a rising number of scholars are adopting machine learning techniques to settle geotechnical issues. In this paper, the application of three popular machine learning algorithms, support vector machine (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), and decision tree (DT), as well as other representative algorithms in geotechnical engineering, is reviewed. Meanwhile, the applicability of diverse machine learning algorithms in settling specific geotechnical engineering issues is compared. The main findings are as follows: ANN, SVM, and DT have been widely adopted to solve a variety of geotechnical engineering issues, such as the classification of soil and rock types, predicting the properties of geotechnical materials, etc. Based on the collected relevant research, the performance of random forest (RF) in sorting soil types and assessing landslide susceptibility is satisfying; SVM has high precision in classifying rock types and forecasting rock deformation; and backpropagation ANNs and Hopfield ANNs are recommended to forecast rock compressive strength and soil settlement, respectively.
ACMKC: A Compact Associative Classification Model Using K-Modes Clustering with Rule Representations by Coverage
Authors: Mattiev Jamolbek , Davityan Monte , Kavsek Branko
Published: September 2023

The generation and analysis of vast amounts of data have become increasingly prevalent in diverse applications. In this study, we propose a novel approach to address the challenge of rule explosion in association rule mining by utilizing the coverage-based representations of clusters determined by K-modes. We utilize the FP-Growth algorithm to generate class association rules (CARs). To further enhance the interpretability and compactness of the rule set, we employ the K-modes clustering algorithm with a distance metric that binarizes the rules. The optimal number of clusters is determined using the silhouette score. Representative rules are then selected based on their coverage within each cluster. To evaluate the effectiveness of our approach, we conducted experimental evaluations on both UCI and Kaggle datasets. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in the rule space (71 rules on average, which is the best result among all state-of-the-art rule-learning algorithms), aligning with our goal of producing compact classifiers. Our approach offers a promising solution for managing rule complexity in association rule mining, thereby facilitating improved rule interpretation and analysis, while maintaining a significantly similar classification accuracy (ACMKC: 80.0% on average) to other rule learners on most of the datasets.
A Cubic B-Spline Collocation Method for Barrier Options under the CEV Model
Authors: Yu Xiwei , Hu Qing , Sun Yudong
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we construct a new numerical algorithm for the partial differential equation of up-and-out put barrier options under the CEV model. In this method, we use the Crank-Nicolson scheme to discrete temporal variables and the cubic B-spline collocation method to discrete spatial variables. The method is stable and has second-order convergence for both time and space variables. The convergence analysis of the proposed method is discussed in detail. Finally, numerical examples verify the stability and accuracy of the method.
Existence of Fuzzy Fixed Points and Common Fuzzy Fixed Points for FG-Contractions with Applications
Authors: Sagheer Dur-e-Shehwar , Rahman Zainab , Batul Samina , Aloqaily Ahmad , Mlaiki Nabil
Published: September 2023

This article contains results of the existence of fuzzy fixed points of fuzzy mappings that satisfy certain contraction conditions using the platform of partial b-metric spaces. Some non-trivial examples are provided to authenticate the main results. The constructed results in this work will likely stimulate new research directions in fuzzy fixed-point theory and related hybrid models. Eventually, some fixed-point results on multivalued mappings are established. These theorems provide an excellent application of main theorems on fuzzy mappings. The results of this article are extensions of many already existing results in the literature.
Delivery Times Scheduling with Deterioration Effects in Due Window Assignment Environments
Authors: Mao Rong-Rong , Wang Yi-Chun , Lv Dan-Yang , Wang Ji-Bo , Lu Yuan-Yuan
Published: September 2023

In practical problems, in addition to the processing time of the job, the impact of the time required for delivering the service to customers on the cost is also considered, i.e., delivery time, where the job processing time is a simple linear function of its starting time. This paper considers the impact of past-sequence-dependent delivery times (which can be referred to as psddt) on the studied objectives in three types of due windows (common, slack and different due windows). This serves to minimize the weighted sum of earliness, tardiness, starting time and size of due window, where the weights (coefficients) are related to the location. Through the theoretical analysis of the optimal solution, it is found that these three problems can be solved in time O(NlogN), respectively, where N is the number of jobs.
Boundary Value Problem for a Loaded Pseudoparabolic Equation with a Fractional Caputo Operator
Authors: Aitzhanov Serik , Bekenayeva Kymbat , Abdikalikova Zamira
Published: September 2023

Differential equations containing fractional derivatives, for both time and spatial variables, have now begun to attract the attention of mathematicians and physicists; they are used in connection with these equations as mathematical models of various processes. The fractional derivative equation tool plays a crucial role in describing plenty of natural processes concerning physics, biology, geology, and so on. In this paper, we studied a loaded equation in relation to a spatial variable for a linear pseudoparabolic equation, with an initial and second boundary value condition (the Neumann condition), and a fractional Caputo derivative. A distinctive feature of the considered problem is that the load at the point is in the higher partial derivatives of the solution. The problem is reduced to a loaded equation with a nonlocal boundary value condition. A way to solve the considered problem is by using the method of energy inequalities, so that a priori estimates of solutions for non-local boundary value problems are obtained. To prove that this nonlocal problem is solvable, we used the method of continuation with parameters. The existence and uniqueness theorems for regular solutions are proven.
On Miller–Ross-Type Poisson Distribution Series
Authors: Frasin Basem Aref , Cotîrlă Luminiţa-Ioana
Published: September 2023

The objective of the current paper is to find the necessary and sufficient conditions for Miller–Ross-type Poisson distribution series to be in the classes ST*(γ,β) and KT(γ,β) of analytic functions with negative coefficients. Furthermore, we investigate several inclusion properties of the class Yσ(V,W) associated of the operator Iα,cε defined by this distribution. We also take into consideration an integral operator connected to series of Miller–Ross-type Poisson distributions. Special cases of the main results are also considered.
Influence of Build Orientation on Surface Roughness and Fatigue Life of the Al2024-RAM2 Alloy Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF)
Authors: Konecna Radomila , Varmus Tibor , Nicoletto Gianni , Jambor Michal
Published: September 2023

Additive manufacturing of high strength Al alloys brings problems with hot cracking during rapid solidification. One of the ways to solve this challenge is technology developed by the Elementum 3D company. The way consists of inoculation by ceramic nanoparticles using RAM technology. When applying the L-PBF method, a very fine equiaxed microstructure with exceptional properties and without cracks is created. This paper offers the results and discussion of the microstructure, surface roughness and fatigue life of the high-strength Al2024-RAM2 alloy made from a gas atomized powder with an additive of 2 wt.% ceramic nanoparticles on the base of Ti. The specimens for fatigue tests were produced in different orientations relative to the building platform and left in the as-built conditions with different surface quality (roughness). The specimens were T6 heat-treated. The treatment caused a coarsening of a part of the fine grains. After T6 heat treatment, the hardness increased significantly, which occurred by precipitation hardening. Fatigue tests of specimens with different build orientation were performed in plane bending and the experimentally determined fatigue life was discussed in terms of surface roughness and material microstructure.
Effect of Growth Stages and Lactic Acid Fermentation on Anti-Nutrients and Nutritional Attributes of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Authors: Naseem Adila , Akhtar Saeed , Ismail Tariq , Qamar Muhammad , Sattar Dur-e-shahwar , Saeed Wisha , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Bartkiene Elena , Rocha João Miguel
Published: September 2023

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a winter-season green, leafy vegetable grown all over the world, belonging to the family Amaranthus, sub-family Chenopodiaceae. Spinach is a low-caloric food and an enormous source of micronutrients, e.g., calcium, folates, zinc, retinol, iron, ascorbic acid and magnesium. Contrarily, it also contains a variety of anti-nutritional factors, e.g., alkaloids, phytates, saponins, oxalates, tannins and many other natural toxicants which may hinder nutrient-absorption. This study was aimed at investigating the effect of fermentation on improving the nutrient-delivering potential of spinach and mitigating its burden of antinutrients and toxicants at three growth stages: the 1st growth stage as baby leaves, the 2nd growth stage at the coarse stage, and the 3rd growth stage at maturation. The results revealed the significant (p < 0.05) effect of fermentation on increasing the protein and fiber content of spinach powder from 2.53 to 3.53% and 19.33 to 22.03%, respectively, and on reducing total carbohydrate content from 52.92 to 40.52%; the effect was consistent in all three growth stages. A significant decline in alkaloids (6.45 to 2.20 mg/100 g), oxalates (0.07 mg/100 g to 0.02 mg/100 g), phytates (1.97 to 0.43 mg/100 g) and glucosinolates (201 to 10.50 µmol/g) was observed as a result of fermentation using Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. Fermentation had no impact on total phenolic content and the antioxidant potential of spinach, as evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. This study proposes fermentation as a safer bioprocess for improving the nutrient-delivering potential of spinach, and suggests processed powders made from spinach as a cost-effective complement to existing plant proteins.
Identification, Antioxidant Capacity, and Matrix Metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) In Silico Inhibition of Haloarchaeal Carotenoids from Natronococcus sp. and Halorubrum tebenquichense
Authors: Delgado-Garcia Mariana , Gómez-Secundino Osvaldo , Rodríguez Jorge A. , Mateos-Díaz Juan Carlos , Muller-Santos Marcelo , Aguilar Cristobal N. , Camacho-Ruiz Rosa Maria
Published: September 2023

Natural pigments from haloarchaea are of great interest; bacterioruberin is the major pigment, it shows higher antioxidant power when compared with β-carotene. However, characterization of bacterioruberin and its isomers along with its antioxidant and the matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) inhibition activities in extracts from Natronoccoccus sp. TC6 and Halorubrum tebenquichense SU10 was not previously described, being the aim of this work. The carotenoids profile was performed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, thin-layer chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS). Antioxidant capacity was determined for DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. In addition, MMP-9 inhibition was studied using docking simulations. The carotenoid profile of studied strains was composed of bacterioruberin, some derivatives like mono, bis, and tris anhydrobacterioruberin, and also some bacterioruberin cis isomers. The carotenoid pools showed antioxidant capacity for DPPH > ABTS > FRAP; Natronococcus sp. TC6 carotenoid pool was better for ABTS and DPPH, while Halorubrum tebenquichense SU10 carotenoid pool was better for FRAP. Additionally, docking and molecular dynamics suggest that bacterioruberin inhibits MMP-9 through hydrophobic interactions near the catalytic site. Bacterioruberin shows the higher binding energy of −8.3 (kcal/mol). The carotenoids profile of both strains was elucidated, their antioxidant activity and singular participation of each carotenoid on MMP-9 in silico inhibition were evaluated.
Safety Analysis of Extended Platelet Shelf-Life with Large-Volume Delayed Sampling on BACT/ALERT® VIRTUO® in Australia
Authors: Cheng Anthea , Das Anindita , Chaw Khin , Dennington Peta M. , Styles Claire E. , Gosbell Iain B.
Published: September 2023

Transfusion-transmitted bacterial infection (TTBI) is the leading cause of transfusion-transmitted infections. Platelet components are more likely to be associated with bacterial contamination due to their storage requirements. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood introduced the bacterial contamination screening (BCS) of all platelet components in 2008. The process was recently updated with the use of BACT/ALERT® VIRTUO®, a large-volume delayed sampling (LVDS) protocol and extending platelet shelf-life to seven days. This article describes the results from the routine BCS of platelet components in Australia. Use of VIRTUO has resulted in lower false-positive rates, reducing wastage and improving platelet inventory. Our findings show that the combination of LVDS and VIRTUO improves the safety of platelet transfusions through earlier time to detection, especially for pathogenic bacterial species. Pathogenic bacteria grew within 24 h of incubation with a clear delineation between pathogenic and non-pathogenic species. The data show this protocol is very safe, with no TTBI cases during this time. There were no TTBI reports in recipients of platelet components that subsequently had a positive culture with Cutibacterium species, probably due to the low pathogenic potential of these organisms and slow replication in aerobic platelet bags. We conclude there is no advantage in incubating culture bottles beyond five days.
Simulating the Impact of Ore and Water Quality on Flotation Recovery during the Life of a Mine
Authors: Aaltonen Annukka , Izart Caroline , Lyyra Mikko , Lang Aleksandra , Saari Eija , Dahl Olli
Published: September 2023

Blending of different ore types in the concentrator feed contributes significantly to maintaining a high recovery of valuable minerals with required grades in the concentrate. It is feasible to develop an ore-blending scheme over the life of a mine already in the design phase of the plant. In addition to ore characteristics, water quality is known to impact mineral recovery. A blending plan could also be developed for the different water streams of a future concentrator. This paper describes a novel modeling and simulation approach to predict metallurgical response combining ore types and water quality. The model is based on kinetic laboratory flotation test data, and it was tested on a case study. As a result, rougher flotation grade-recovery curves dependent on ore types and water quality are presented over the predicted life of the mine. The simulation results can be exploited in project design to maximize the recovery of valuable minerals and to ensure environmentally sound and profitable mining operations. Overall, the developed modeling tool can be applied widely for minerals processed by using froth flotation and water types available for kinetic laboratory flotation tests.
Long Non-Coding RNA TUG1 Gene Polymorphism and TUG1 Expression Level as Molecular Biomarkers of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Tawfeek Gehan Abd-Elfatah , Kasem Heba , Abdallah Eman Ali , Almulhim Mohammed , Almulhim Abdullah , Albarqi Mohammed , Elzorkany Khaled Mohamed Amin
Published: September 2023

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) TUG1 acts as a proto-oncogene, allowing the proliferation of tumor cells, and it has been related to inflammation. Therefore, we aimed in this study to investigate for the first time the role of TUG1 gene polymorphism and the TUG1 level as biomarkers in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and their link to lupus nephritis 145 SLE. A total of 145 healthy controls were subjected to clinical and laboratory evaluation. The disease activity was assessed by the SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) score. SLE patients were divided into two subgroups according to the presence of lupus nephritis. The TUG1 gene polymorphisms rs5749201 and rs886471 were determined by Sanger sequencing, and TUG1 expression was assessed by qRT-PCR. There was a significant increase in the risk of SLE AA, TA, dominant genotypes, and the A allele of rs5749201 (p < 0.001) by 4.9-, 10.1-, 6.5-, and 2.5-fold in comparison to the relative control. GG and TG, dominant genotypes and the G allele of rs886471 (p < 0.01) increased the risk by 5.09-, 11.9-, 6.5-, and 2.6-fold. AA, A allele, dominant and recessive rs5749201genotypes increased the risk of lupus nephritis by 16.6-, 7.4-, 7.1-, and 12.2-fold, respectively (p < 0.05). GG, dominant and recessive genotypes, and the G allele of rs886471 increased the risk of lupus nephritis by 17.04-, 7.8-, 9.4-, and 6.08-fold, respectively (p < 0.05). Additionally, the AG haplotype increased the risk of SLE and lupus nephritis by 2.7- and 7.8-fold, respectively. The AA rs5749201 and GG rs886471 variants are significantly associated with more severe disease (p < 0.001). TUG1 expression was significantly higher in SLE than in the control and in the lupus nephritis than in non-lupus nephritis cases (p < 0.05). Interestingly, AA rs5749201 and GG rs886471 were significantly associated with higher TUG1 levels (p < 0.001). It was also found that AA rs5749201 and high SLEDAI were predictors of lupus nephritis. Overall, our findings illustrated for the first time that TUG1 gene rs5749201 and rs886471 variants were associated with increased risk of SLE, more severe disease, and lupus nephritis, and the TUG1 level could be used as a diagnostic biomarker of SLE and lupus nephritis.
Rift Valley Fever Virus—Infection, Pathogenesis and Host Immune Responses
Authors: Nair Niranjana , Osterhaus Albert D. M. E. , Rimmelzwaan Guus F. , Prajeeth Chittappen Kandiyil
Published: September 2023

Rift Valley Fever Virus is a mosquito-borne phlebovirus causing febrile or haemorrhagic illness in ruminants and humans. The virus can prevent the induction of the antiviral interferon response through its NSs proteins. Mutations in the NSs gene may allow the induction of innate proinflammatory immune responses and lead to attenuation of the virus. Upon infection, virus-specific antibodies and T cells are induced that may afford protection against subsequent infections. Thus, all arms of the adaptive immune system contribute to prevention of disease progression. These findings will aid the design of vaccines using the currently available platforms. Vaccine candidates have shown promise in safety and efficacy trials in susceptible animal species and these may contribute to the control of RVFV infections and prevention of disease progression in humans and ruminants.
Case Series of Primaquine-Induced Haemolytic Events in Controlled Trials with G6PD Screening
Authors: Kosasih Ayleen , James Robert , Chau Nguyen Hoang , Karman Michelle M. , Panggalo Lydia Visita , Wini Lyndes , Thanh Ngo Viet , Obadia Thomas , Satyagraha Ari Winasti , Asih Puji Budi Setia , Syafruddin Din , Taylor Walter R. J. , Mueller Ivo , Sutanto Inge , Karunajeewa Harin , Pasaribu Ayodhia Pitaloka , Baird J. Kevin
Published: September 2023

Primaquine for radical cure of Plasmodium vivax malaria poses a potentially life-threatening risk of haemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients. Herein, we review five events of acute haemolytic anaemia following the administration of primaquine in four malaria trials from Indonesia, the Solomon Islands, and Vietnam. Five males aged 9 to 48 years were improperly classified as G6PD-normal by various screening procedures and included as subjects in trials of anti-relapse therapy with daily primaquine. Routine safety monitoring by physical examination, urine inspection, and blood haemoglobin (Hb) assessment were performed in all those trials. Early signs of acute haemolysis, i.e., dark urine and haemoglobin drop >20%, occurred only after day 3 and as late as day 8 of primaquine dosing. All patients were hospitalized and fully recovered, all but one following blood transfusion rescue. Hb nadir was 4.7 to 7.9 g/dL. Hospitalization was for 1 to 7 days. Hb levels returned to baseline values 3 to 10 days after transfusion. Failed G6PD screening procedures in these trials led G6PD-deficient patients to suffer harmful exposures to primaquine. The safe application of primaquine anti-relapse therapy requires G6PD screening and anticipation of its failure with a means of prompt detection and rescue from the typically abrupt haemolytic crisis.
A Systematic Review of the Recent Techniques Commonly Used in the Diagnosis of Mycoplasma bovis in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Okella Hedmon , Tonooka Karen , Okello Emmanuel
Published: September 2023

Early detection of Mycoplasmal mastitis is greatly hampered by late seroconversion, slow growth of Mycoplasma organisms, intermittent shedding, and the high cost of diagnostic tests. To improve future diagnostic development, examining the available techniques is necessary. Accordingly, the present study systematically reviewed M. bovis diagnostic studies published between January 2000 and April 2023 utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol. The protocol registration was performed according to the Open Science Framework (osf.io/ug79h), and the electronic search was conducted in the World Catalog, Mendeley, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, Semantic Scholar, PubMed, Google Scholar, Prime Scholar, and PubMed Central databases using a Boolean operator and inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the 1194 pieces of literature retrieved, 67 studies were included. Four broad categories of up to 16 diagnostic approaches were reported: microbial culture, serological, DNA-based, and mass spectrometry. Overall, DNA-based techniques were the most published (48.0%), with recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) as the most promising user-friendly, equipment-free techniques. On the other hand, mass spectrometry was reported as the least utilized (2.9%) given the high equipment cost. Though costly and laboratory-allied, DNA-based techniques, particularly PCRs, were reported as the most rapid and specific approach.
Bacteriophage Bioengineering: A Transformative Approach for Targeted Drug Discovery and Beyond
Authors: Cui Longzhu , Veeranarayanan Srivani , Thitiananpakorn Kanate , Wannigama Dhammika Leshan
Published: September 2023

Bacteriophages, the viruses that infect and replicate within bacteria, have long been recognized as potential therapeutic agents against bacterial infections [...]
Influence of Vitamin D on Periodontal Inflammation: A Review
Authors: Meghil Mohamed M. , Cutler Christopher W.
Published: September 2023

The active form of vitamin D is the hormonally active 1,25(OH)2D3 (Vit D) vitamin, which plays an important role in bone biology and host immunity. The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is a nuclear ligand-dependent transcription factor expressed by many cells. Ligation of VDR by VitD regulates a wide plethora of genes and physiologic functions through the formation of the complex Vit D-VDR signaling cascade. The influence of Vit D-VDR signaling in host immune response to microbial infection has been of interest to many researchers. This is particularly important in oral health and diseases, as oral mucosa is exposed to a complex microbiota, with certain species capable of causing disruption to immune homeostasis. In this review, we focus on the immune modulatory roles of Vit D in the bone degenerative oral disease, periodontitis.
Development and Refinement of a Matrix Competency Framework, with Associated Entrustable Professional Activities, to Support Initial Pharmacy Education in Kuwait
Authors: Moreau Pierre , Qaddoumi Mohammad , Al-Taweel Dalal , Alghanem Sarah , Bayoud Tania , Alowayesh Maryam , Al-Soraj Monerah , Hedaya Mohsen , Al-Haqan Asmaa , Alsane Danah
Published: September 2023

The development of competency frameworks serves as the foundation for the development of competency-based education. It is vital to develop a country-specific framework to address the specific needs of the local population for pharmacy services. This study aimed to describe the development process of a competency framework for undergraduate pharmacy education in Kuwait with a unique matrix structure. The process started with the development of guiding principles for curriculum revision and implementation, as well as the identification of global educational outcomes. This process was followed by: (A) a needs assessment with key stakeholders; (B) development of the initial competency framework; and (C) refinement of the framework. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed to identify the main competency domains that students need to perform the identified entrustable professional activities (EPAs). Five population needs were identified by the needs assessment, with 17 EPAs suggested to fulfill those needs. In addition, 11 competency domains were identified. The initial competency framework was created as a 3 × 8 matrix, with 3 professional and 8 transversal competency domains. Refinement of the framework resulted in the removal of redundancies and the development of a global behavior competency profile. The development of a matrix competency framework and associated EPAs for Kuwait serves as a foundation for preparing pharmacists to fulfill local population needs and expanding the scope of practice in the country.
Bio-Stimulant for Improving Simmondsia chinensis Secondary Metabolite Production, as Well as Antimicrobial Activity and Wound Healing Abilities
Authors: El Sherif Fadia , AlDayel Munirah , Ismail Mohammad Bani , Alrajeh Hind Salih , Younis Nancy S. , Khattab Salah
Published: September 2023

Simmondsia chinensis is a dioecious, long-lived perennial shrub. Its leaves contain several antioxidant flavonoids that have numerous pharmacological effects. Various strategies have been explored to propagate jojoba with enhanced pharmacological values. This research evaluates the bio-stimulatory impacts of He–Ne laser seed irradiation on seed germination, plantlet growth, and alteration of the composition and bioactivities of phytochemicals in jojoba plants. Jojoba seeds were irradiated for 5, 10, and 15 min before in vitro germination. Germination, growth, and multiplication parameters were recorded during germination, multiple-shoot induction, and rooting stages. The wound healing and antimicrobial activities of methanolic extracts from plant lines obtained from the non-irradiated (control) and 10 min irradiated seeds were compared by excision wound model in Wistar male rats and zone of inhibition assay. Our study revealed that laser irradiation increased seed germination, with the highest percentage observed in seeds irradiated for 10 min. Plant lines from the 10 min irradiated seeds produced more explants with higher explant heights and numbers of leaves, more roots, and higher photosynthetic pigment contents than those of control and other laser testings. By comparing plant extracts from the control and 10 min treatments, we observed that extracts from the 10 min treatment exhibited higher percentages of wound contraction and shorter epithelialization periods. In addition, these extracts also resulted in higher levels of angiogenesis elements (VEGF, TGF-β1, and HIF-1α) and reduced the inflammation regulators (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and NFκB) in the experimental rats. In concordance, extracts from the 10 min treatment also explained raised antibacterial activities towards Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Our findings show that pre-sowing seed treatment with a He–Ne laser (632.8 nm) could be a good technique for stimulating S. chinensis plant growth and increasing the impact compound levels and biological activities.
Divergence in Glyphosate Susceptibility between Steinchisma laxum Populations Involves a Pro106Ser Mutation
Authors: Hoyos Veronica , Plaza Guido , Palma-Bautista Candelario , Vázquez-García Jose G. , Dominguez-Valenzuela José Alfredo , Alcántara-de la Cruz Ricardo , De Prado Rafael
Published: September 2023

The characterization of the mechanisms conferring resistance to herbicides in weeds is essential for developing effective management programs. This study was focused on characterizing the resistance level and the main mechanisms that confer resistance to glyphosate in a resistant (R) Steinchisma laxum population collected in a Colombian rice field in 2020. The R population exhibited 11.2 times higher resistance compared to a susceptible (S) population. Non-target site resistance (NTSR) mechanisms that reduced absorption and impaired translocation and glyphosate metabolism were not involved in the resistance to glyphosate in the R population. Evaluating the target site resistance mechanisms by means of enzymatic activity assays and EPSPS (5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase) gene sequencing, the mutation Pro106Ser was found in R plants of S. laxum. These findings are crucial for managing the spread of S. laxum resistance in Colombia. To effectively control S. laxum in the future, it is imperative that farmers use herbicides with different mechanisms of action in addition to glyphosate and adopt Integrate Management Programs to control weeds in rice fields of the central valleys of Colombia.
Antimicrobial Resistance of Heterotrophic Bacteria and Enterobacteriaceae Inhabiting an Anthropogenic-Affected River Stretch in Bulgaria
Authors: Tsvetanova Zvezdimira , Najdenski Hristo
Published: September 2023

The increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of pathogens is a significant threat to human and animal health, but it is also an environmental challenge for water resources. The present study aimed to quantify heterotrophic bacteria resistant to five groups of antibiotics (ABs) in a selected Yantra River stretch (including its tributary, the Belitsa River); to assess AMR prevalence among Enterobacteriaceae; and to assess the impact of urban effluents or rural runoff on AMR prevalence along the river course at eight sampling points. Culture-dependent methods were used in a population-based study of total AMR and for AB susceptibility testing of Enterobacteriaceae isolates. The data reveal significant differences in AMR dissemination and a lower (up to 10%) proportion of different types of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in the Yantra River water compared to the Belitsa River (up to 20%). The incidence of resistant Enterobacteriaceae isolates was in the range of 1% to gentamicin to 36% to ampicillin, including multidrug resistance of 19%, and different AMR patterns of isolates from each river. The prevalence of AMR among aquatic bacteria highlights the need for adequate waste water treatment and for management, monitoring and control of treatment processes to limit anthropogenic pressure through discharge of untreated or incompletely treated waste water and to ensure the ecological well-being of receiving waters.
Sterba’s Problem of Evil and a Penal Colony Theodicy
Authors: Harrison Gerald
Published: September 2023

Sterba argues that God would be ethically bound to implement a set of exceptionless evil prevention requirements. However, he argues that the world as we know it is not as it would be if God were applying them. Sterba concludes that God does not exist. In this paper, I offer a penal colony theodicy that will show how the world as we know it is entirely compatible with God’s implementation of such evil prevention requirements.
A Recommender System for Increasing Energy Efficiency of Solar-Powered Smart Homes
Authors: Meteier Quentin , El Kamali Mira , Angelini Leonardo , Abou Khaled Omar
Published: September 2023

Photovoltaic installations can be environmentally beneficial to a greater or lesser extent, depending on the conditions. If the energy produced is not used, it is redirected to the grid, otherwise a battery with a high ecological footprint is needed to store it. To alleviate this problem, an innovative recommender system is proposed for residents of smart homes equipped with battery-free solar panels to optimise the energy produced. Using artificial intelligence, the system is designed to predict the energy produced and consumed for the day ahead using three data sources: sensor logs from the home automation solution, data collected by the solar inverter, and weather data. Based on these predictions, recommendations are then generated and ranked by relevance. Data collected over 76 days were used to train two variants of the system, considering or without considering energy consumption. Recommendations selected by the system over 14 days were randomly picked to be evaluated for relevance, ranking, and diversity by 11 people. The results show that it is difficult to predict residents’ consumption based solely on sensor logs. On average, respondents reported that 74% of the recommendations were relevant, while the values contained in them (i.e., accuracy of times of day and kW energy) were accurate in 66% (variant 1) and 77% of cases (variant 2). Also, the ranking of the recommendations was considered logical in 91% and 88% of cases. Overall, residents of such solar-powered smart homes might be willing to use such a system to optimise the energy produced. However, further research should be conducted to improve the accuracy of the values contained in the recommendations.
Perimeter Control Method of Road Traffic Regions Based on MFD-DDPG
Authors: Zheng Guorong , Liu Yuke , Fu Yazhou , Zhao Yingjie , Zhang Zundong
Published: September 2023

As urban areas continue to expand, traffic congestion has emerged as a significant challenge impacting urban governance and economic development. Frequent regional traffic congestion has become a primary factor hindering urban economic growth and social activities, necessitating improved regional traffic management. Addressing regional traffic optimization and control methods based on the characteristics of regional congestion has become a crucial and complex issue in the field of traffic management and control research. This paper focuses on the macroscopic fundamental diagram (MFD) and aims to tackle the control problem without relying on traffic determination information. To address this, we introduce the Q-learning (QL) algorithm in reinforcement learning and the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm in deep reinforcement learning. Subsequently, we propose the MFD-QL perimeter control model and the MFD-DDPG perimeter control model. We conduct numerical analysis and simulation experiments to verify the effectiveness of the MFD-QL and MFD-DDPG algorithms. The experimental results show that the algorithms converge rapidly to a stable state and achieve superior control effects in optimizing regional perimeter control.
Bistability of AlGaAs/GaAs Resonant-Tunneling Diodes Heterostructural Channel
Authors: Vetrova Natalia , Kuimov Evgeny , Sinyakin Vladimir , Meshkov Sergey , Makeev Mstislav , Shashurin Vasiliy
Published: September 2023

This paper presents an effective compact model of current transfer for the estimation of hysteresis parameters on the volt-ampere characteristics of resonant-tunneling diodes. In the framework of the compact model, the appearance of hysteresis is explained as a manifestation of internal bistability due to interelectronic interaction in the channel of the resonant-tunneling structure. Unlike the models based on the method of equivalent circuits, the interelectronic interaction in the compact model is taken into account using the concentration parameter. Model validation allowed us to confirm the high accuracy of the model not only at the initial section of the volt-ampere characteristics, but also at the hysteresis parameters traditionally predicted with low accuracy, namely the loop width (∆ < 0.5%) and contrast (∆ < 7%). Thus, it is concluded that the models are promising for integration into systems for synthesizing the electrical characteristics of resonant-tunneling diodes.
A Review of Approaches for Mitigating Effects from Variable Operational Environments on Piezoelectric Transducers for Long-Term Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Brunner Andreas J.
Published: September 2023

Extending the service life of ageing infrastructure, transportation structures, and processing and manufacturing plants in an era of limited resources has spurred extensive research and development in structural health monitoring systems and their integration. Even though piezoelectric transducers are not the only sensor technology for SHM, they are widely used for data acquisition from, e.g., wave-based or vibrational non-destructive test methods such as ultrasonic guided waves, acoustic emission, electromechanical impedance, vibration monitoring or modal analysis, but also provide electric power via local energy harvesting for equipment operation. Operational environments include mechanical loads, e.g., stress induced deformations and vibrations, but also stochastic events, such as impact of foreign objects, temperature and humidity changes (e.g., daily and seasonal or process-dependent), and electromagnetic interference. All operator actions, correct or erroneous, as well as unintentional interference by unauthorized people, vandalism, or even cyber-attacks, may affect the performance of the transducers. In nuclear power plants, as well as in aerospace, structures and health monitoring systems are exposed to high-energy electromagnetic or particle radiation or (micro-)meteorite impact. Even if environmental effects are not detrimental for the transducers, they may induce large amounts of non-relevant signals, i.e., coming from sources not related to changes in structural integrity. Selected issues discussed comprise the durability of piezoelectric transducers, and of their coupling and mounting, but also detection and elimination of non-relevant signals and signal de-noising. For long-term service, developing concepts for maintenance and repair, or designing robust or redundant SHM systems, are of importance for the reliable long-term operation of transducers for structural health monitoring.
Exploring Responses to Community Violence Trauma Using a Neighborhood Network of Programs
Authors: Gebo Erika , Franklin Brianna
Published: September 2023

Responses to community violence should include interventions not just for those who are offenders but also for those who are victims of the violence and community members who are affected by the violence. In this study, one city’s public health response to victims of community violence using a neighborhood trauma team network (NTTN) is explored. Neighborhood trauma teams provide victims and their families with psychological first aid, logistical guidance, and referral to long-term therapeutic services. These teams also provide referral and community meeting support for community residents exposed to violence. To better understand program operations and identify the strengths and challenges of this response model, semi-structured interviews with lead program staff were used as well as a review of program documents. The results show that the NTTN has a clear purpose in meeting immediate client needs, but ambiguity exists in the network’s role in community healing and in community violence prevention. The NTTN response is mapped onto a social–ecological framework of violence prevention to contextualize this community-based public health response in the broader public health–criminal justice setting in which it operates. Implications for NTTN function and coordination are discussed.
Dual Vocational Education and Training Policy in Andalusia: The Nexus between the Education System and the Business Sector in the Higher-Level Training Cycle of Early Childhood Education
Authors: Jiménez Ramírez Magdalena , García Rocío Lorente , García Fuentes Juan
Published: September 2023

Dual vocational education and training (dual VET) is a recent policy aimed at establishing strong connections between the education system and the business sector. It serves to ensure the continuity of training, reduce early school leaving, and actively involve the business sector in the training and qualification of students, known as apprentices. Consequently, this approach has a favourable impact on their successful integration into the labour market upon completion of the dual training program. In this study, we investigate the implementation of dual VET in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain, focusing on the higher-level training cycle of early childhood education, which falls under the professional family of sociocultural and community services. Through a thorough analysis of interview accounts involving various stakeholders, we shed light on the outcomes of this policy’s implementation. The findings suggest that this emerging policy may have a positive impact on the employability of young individuals by enabling in-company training, which provides them an opportunity to showcase their vocational skills and to combine practical experience with theoretical knowledge. Work mentors are identified as essential contributors to the success of in-company training, as they help foster the necessary capabilities to ensure that dual VET is perceived as a comprehensive training experience rather than as just work experience.
From Migrant to Transnational Families’ Mental Health: An Ethnography of Five Mexican Families Participating in Agricultural Labour in Canada
Authors: Escrig-Pinol Astrid , Gastaldo Denise , Cortinois Andrea A. , McLaughlin Janet
Published: September 2023

This focused critical ethnography aimed to deepen our understanding of the impact of participating in a temporary, cyclical, low-wage migration program on the mental and emotional health (MEH) of Mexican women and their non-migrating family members. Except for global care chains research, the field of migrant mental health has paid limited attention to the importance of transnational family dynamics and the MEH of relatives beyond the workers’ children. The current study broadens this framework to examine how family-level changes brought about by migration affect the MEH not only the migrant and her children, but also extended family members. Participants included five women employed in the Canadian Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program and an average of five non-migrating members of their families in Mexico. The study combined four data generation methods: participant observation, ‘emojional’ calendars, semi-structured interviews, and sociodemographic questionnaires. Study participants’ MEH was significantly influenced by gendered selection processes and the cyclical pattern of migration. Similar impacts were observed within and across four groups of participants (workers, their children, the children’s caregivers, and extended family members) during their periods apart and together. There were significant effects of their relative’s migration on the MEH of extended family members, a population group commonly overlooked in the literature. Findings from this study suggest that public health research, programs, and policies using a transnational approach are best suited to effectively address the impacts of migration on the MEH of migrants and their non-migrating families.
Research on E-Commerce Platforms’ Return Policies Considering Consumers Abusing Return Policies
Authors: Liu Huixin , Du Feng
Published: September 2023

Currently, major e-commerce platforms are competing to improve their return services, while merchants are suffering from consumers abusing return policies. We developed a dual oligopoly model consisting of two e-commerce platforms, one offering a lenient return policy and the other enforcing a stringent one, to investigate the effectiveness of lenient return policies in the presence of opportunistic consumers. We examine the impact of the proportion of opportunistic consumers, cross-network effects, gains from dishonest returns, and penalties on the scale of users and profits for both platforms. The findings indicate that: (1) As the proportion of opportunistic consumers increases, multi-homing merchants tend to be single-homing on a platform with a stringent return policy. This reduces the number of consumers on a platform with a lenient return policy and lowers the platform’s profit. Moreover, increased gains from dishonest returns worsen the situation. (2) Network effects on merchants from the consumer side significantly affect the effectiveness of lenient return policies. (3) Enforcement of penalties for dishonest returns could prevent an exodus of consumers and merchants from platforms that offer lenient return policies. However, it does not raise profits. In other words, its impact on the success of lenient return policies is limited.
INCRUSTACIONES EN LOS SISTEMAS DE ABASTECIMIENTO DE AGUA POTABLE. FORMACIÓN Y MÉTODOS DE INHIBICCIÓN
Authors: Contreras Ramírez Jesús Miguel , Nieves-Rivas Jesús Javier
Published: September 2023

La cal u otras sales se encuentran en su forma disuelta en casi todas las aguas. En el lenguaje común, los carbonatos de calcio y de magnesio le confieren dureza al agua. Técnicamente hablando, dependiendo de la temperatura del agua, los minerales/sales disueltas comienzan a precipitar, formando incrustaciones en las superficies. La incrustación puede ser causada por muchas sales diferentes, pero una de las sales que forman escamas más comunes es el carbonato de calcio. La incrustación causa muchos problemas, tales como taponamiento del equipo, transferencia de calor limitada y caudales reducidos en muchos procesos industriales que utilizan grandes cantidades de agua. La inhibición de la incrustación se puede conseguir con aditivos químicos a los que se suele denominar inhibidores de incrustaciones. Los compuestos antiincrustacion más comunes son inhibidores a base de fosfato, fosfonato y policarboxilato. En este artículo de revisión se resumió el concepto de incrustaciones, varios inhibidores de incrustaciones, mecanismos, rendimiento comparativo, conceptos que podrían ser de útilidad para los profesionales que trabajan en la industria petrolera e industrias del gas.
La sostenibilidad en el discurso promocional de las empresas enoturísticas del estado de Guanajuato, México
Authors: Montiel Flores Julio César
Published: September 2023

Existen diferentes sentidos que derivan del concepto de sostenibilidad que permean en contenidos que, diseñados para la promoción de productos y servicios, comunican una relación estrecha con el medio ambiente; sin embargo, la sostenibilidad también descansa en otros aspectos como lo sociocultural y lo económico. El objetivo de esta investigación fue mostrar los elementos que tienen que ver con la sostenibilidad en el discurso promocional de las empresas enoturísticas del estado de Guanajuato, a fin de identificar las asimetrías existentes entre las directrices medioambiental, sociocultural y económica. Entre los resultados se encontraron que no todas las empresas enoturísticas del estado manifiestan expresamente elementos sostenibles en sus negocios; no obstante, otorgan significativa importancia al fomento y promoción de la cultura del vino, a la valoración de la naturaleza y el paisaje, así como al aprendizaje experiencial de las actividades derivadas de la producción de uva y de vinos.