bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possibilities and Limits of forensic Social Work in the prison Environment
Authors: Planka T. , Mackinova M. , Olah M.
Published: April 2024

The term forensic refers to anything related to the justice system, the legal system of a state and the responsibilities of social workers in dealing with and resolving legal problems. The very meaning of the term suggests as much. Forensic social work can be broadly characterized as a specialization in social work that focuses on law, legal issues and litigation. In a narrower sense, forensic social work refers to the knowledge, skills, measures and procedures applied when working with forensic social work clients. With this narrower definition, forensic social work can be considered synonymous with the term criminal justice social work (Neszméry, 2021). The primary purpose of our study is to empirically state and define the possibilities, roles and importance of social work in the prison setting. The ethical and legal framework and position of the forensic social worker in the prison setting, as well as their role and scope of practice in this setting, are directly related to this. Secondarily, we analyze crime in the prison environment and its prevention, as forensic social workers also encounter this socio-pathological phenomenon in addition to many others. In connection with this topic and the focus of the study, we also provide a definition of basic terms in the field of forensic social work. We include a number of factors that influence the functioning of a forensic social worker in the prison environment and shape the actual practice of the forensic social worker as the basic starting points of the conducted study and empirical research. The most important factors, which represent the basic starting points of the empirical research and the conducted study, are ranked as follows: practice, representing the basic performance and delivery of social work in the prison environment; prevention, meaning the prevention of criminal behavior and other forms of undesirable behavior in the prison environment; the position of the forensic social worker and all the related possibilities for the performance of his/her position, but also the limitations of the performance of his/her activities in the prison environment; and finally, communication, which constitutes the basic tool and means of communication between the forensic social worker and his/her client in the prison environment, between the state authorities, other organizations and the forensic social worker, but also between the convicted person and his/her family
Possible social Risk and Risks arising from Information and Telecommunication Tools in the Hands of second primary Education Stage Pupils in Slovakia
Authors: Vankova K.
Published: April 2024

The current era is characterised by many technologies with online access. This paper lists the most significant negative phenomena associated with the use of modern technologies: the harmfulness of Internet use in general, Internet addiction, bullying through information and communication technologies (ICT), sites with toxic content, defamation and intolerance, false and fraudulent messages and conspiracies, radicalization, communication with unknown people via the Internet and explicit content. Other risks include: the spread of child pornography, sexting and cyberbullying. Our research and its results will show how information and telecommunication technologies are used by second primary education stage pupils attending selected primary schools. The paper concludes with recommendations for practice that emerged from the empirical findings.
The role of GeoGebra software in conceptual understanding and engagement among secondary school student
Authors: Hidayat Riyan , Noor Wan Nurazlina Wan Mohd , Nasir Nurihan , Ayub Ahmad Fauzi Mohd
Published: April 2024

This study aims to identify the impact of GeoGebra software on conceptual understanding and engagement in the topic of Functions and Quadratic Equations in One Variable in high school. The study was conducted in a quasi-experimental design with 60 students at a secondary school in Muallim district. The study results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inference, and the Pearson Correlation. Descriptive analysis indicates that students have a strong grasp of the topic taught, particularly showing high conceptual understanding and maximum engagement in interactive activities. Inference statistics reveal a significant difference in conceptual understanding levels between the treatment and control groups among Level Four students regarding Quadratic Functions and Equations in a Variable. In addition, there were significant differences in student engagement between the treatment and control groups. There is a significant relationship between the level of student engagement and students’ conceptual understanding of Quadratic Functions and Equations in One Variable for both groups. In conclusion, using GeoGebra software has an impact on the relationship between understanding the concept and involving students in learning the topic of Quadratic Functions and Equations in a Variable.
Role of root exudates on the transformation and ecological effect of engineering nanomaterials in soil system: A critical review
Authors: Wei Xiaohe , Miao Xinyu , Zhou Qixing , Ouyang Shaohu
Published: April 2024

Due to the widespread use of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) for soil
remediation and nano-enabled sustainable agriculture, there is a growing
concern regarding the behavior and fate of ENMs released into soil
systems in the presence of natural root exudates (REs). Herein, we
investigate the influence of REs on the fate and ecological effect of
ENMs from a comprehensive perspective. We summarize the key roles
reported in the literature for REs in physical changes (e.g.,
adsorption, dispersion/aggregation), chemical changes (e.g.,
oxidation/redox reactions, and dissolution), and biotransformation of
ENMs, which will further determine the ecological risk of ENMs in
natural soil systems. Moreover, this review highlights the potential
adverse effects of ENMs on different soil organisms (e.g., bacteria,
plants, and eisenia foetida) in the presence of REs. The remaining
unclear mechanisms (e.g., oxidative stress and DNA damage) of ENMs
toxicity at the cellular level influenced by REs are reviewed and
presented. Finally, the review concludes by addressing the current
knowledge gaps and challenges in this field.
Interaction of tryptophan metabolites with the human aryl hydrocarbon receptor in silico: tryptophan as antagonist and failure of kynurenine to dock
Authors: Badawy Abdulla , Dawood Shazia
Published: April 2024

It is almost universally thought that modulation of immune function by
tryptophan (Trp) metabolites involves activation of the aryl hydrocarbon
receptor (AhR) mainly by kynurenine (Kyn), based on enhanced expression
of cytochrome P-450 enzymes and their increased activities in cell
systems and in vivo. However, DiNatale et al. (Toxicol. Sci. 2010; 115:
89-97) reported the failure of Kyn at 10 M to activate the AhR, whereas
a similar concentration of kynurenic acid (KA) was effective. The recent
study by Solvay et al (J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11: e006728) called
into question the direct link between Kyn and the AhR and demonstrated
down regulation of the AhR by Trp. In the present study, we have
performed for the first time molecular docking in silico to the human
AhR of the above and a range of other Trp metabolites produced in the
various degradative pathways and by gut microbiota. We demonstrate that,
of 29 Trp metabolites, only Kyn and 3-hydroxykynurenine fail to dock to
the AhR and propose that AhR activation by Kyn is an indirect effect
mediated by KA. The strongest docking is observed with FICZ
(6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole), cinnabarinic acid,
5-hydroxytryptophan, N-acetyl serotonin and indol-3-yllactic acid. We
propose that Trp, which docks strongly to the AhR is an AhR antagonist.
Differences in AhR activation by Trp metabolites in cell systems and in
vivo may be determined by the prevailing physiological conditions. The
strong docking of 5-hydroxyindoles to the AhR may underpin the effects
of serotonin pathway metabolites on biological processes.
Regulation and mechanism of organic selenium on quorum sensing, biofilm and antioxidant effects of Lactobacillus paracasei
Authors: Lou Zaixiang , Dong Jiale , Tao Hongwei , Tan Yeexuan , Wang Hongxin
Published: April 2024

The study focused on the impact and action mechanism of different
organic selenium products on the bioactivity of two strains of
Lactobacillus paracasei. The growth, antioxidant activity,
extracellular polysaccharide secretion, quorum sensing and biofilm
formation of the strains before and after the addition of organic
selenium crude products and three organic selenium standard were
evaluated. The results showed that the addition of crude organic
selenium had a promoting effect on the growth, antioxidant activity,
extracellular polysaccharide, biofilm formation, and AI-2 activity of
the strain. The organic selenium standards had a regulatory effect
(positive and negative) on biofilm formation and the activity of the QS
signal molecule AI-2 in the strain. L-selenocysteine had the strongest
regulatory effect, with maximum GIM1.80 biofilm formation when it
reached a critical concentration of 0.4 μg/ml; L-selenomethionine
resulted in the highest activity of the signal molecule AI-2 of
GDMCC1.155, when it reached a critical concentration of 0.4 μg/ml. The
results of scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that organic
selenium effectively improved the morphology and structure of the
bacterial cells of the two strains. Molecular docking revealed that the
mechanism by which organic selenium regulates quorum sensing in
Lactobacillus was achieved by binding two crucial receptor
proteins (histidine protein kinase HKP and periplasmic binding protein
LuxP) from specific sites. It provides a new alternative (organic
selenium) for regulating the viability and beneficial activity of
Lactobacillus paracasei. Significance statement: The
study found that organic selenium can both positively and negatively
regulate quorum sensing and biofilm formation of Lactobacillus,
and the critical concentrations have also been obtained. Meanwhile, it
was found that organic selenium can promote the growth, antioxidant
activity, and biofilm formation of Lactobacillus by activating
quorum sensing, so as to better exert its probiotic properties.
Furthermore, the regulating mechanism of organic selenium on the
activity of Lactobacillus was revealed. This study provides a new
alternative for regulating and stimulating the beneficial activity of
probiotics.
Candidate biomarkers in intrauterine adhesions revealed by label-free quantitative proteomics
Authors: Ren Yiwen , Li Feiyan , Ye Jingxuan , Zhu Congxin , Li Yong
Published: April 2024

Background:With the mounting number of intrauterine operations, the
incidence of intrauterine adhesion continues to rise. However, the
specific pathogenesis of intrauterine adhesion has not been clear and
there is no fundamental treatment so far. Objective:IUA is an
endometrial fibrosis illness that gravely jeopardizes the reproductive
health of women of reproductive age. We elucidated the pathogenesis of
IUA at the protein level to provide a more effective research basis for
diagnosis and treatment. Methods: This study collected 15 endometrial
tissue samples and divided them into three comparison groups
(Adhesion/Control group, Endometrium/Adhesion group, and
Endometrium/Control group). Label-free quantitative proteomics was used
to identify differentially expressed proteins and performed a
comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. The research was followed by a
quantitative analysis of selected target proteins using a parallel
reaction monitoring method. Results: 1328, 290, and 1335 differential
proteins were found in each comparison group. Many features of the
differential proteins were also identified by GO enrichment analysis and
KEGG pathways analysis. Parallel reaction monitoring analysis was
performed to quantify 14 target proteins (PGM5, CAMK2G, ABHD6, MYLK,
SYNPO2, LTF, PTPN11, TGF-β1, SLC4A1, PROS1, IRAG1, ADIPOQ, HLA-DRB3,
COQ6). Among them, TGF-β1 was previously reported as a significant
protein in intrauterine adhesion, while other proteins were newly
discovered. Conclusions: These proteins are anticipated to develop as
biomarkers for intrauterine adhesion and have a specific role in
diagnosis and therapy.
Impact of dry (air classification) and wet fractionation on pea protein molecular structure and gelling properties
Authors: Kottage Samitha , Samaranayaka Anusha , Bhowmik Pankaj , Chen Lingyun
Published: April 2024

Dry fractionation is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective
method to separate protein fractions. While most research has focused on
the structure and functional properties of pea protein isolates (PPI),
the information on dry fractionated pea protein (DFPP) is limited. This
study compared DFPP (protein content (PC)-50.7%, insoluble fiber-17%),
to PPI (PC-80.1%, insoluble fiber-8.33%), in terms of the protein
structure, solubility, and heat-induced gelation. SDS-Page,
size-exclusive chromatographic, and Fourier-transform infrared
spectrophotometer analysis indicated that DFPP contained the major
protein components in pea, and their native structures were well
maintained. Whereas for PPI, some proteins were lost during wet
extraction, and partial protein unfolding and aggregation were observed.
At neutral pH, DFPP showed significantly higher solubility
(44.64±0.55%) than PPI (12.09±1.42%). Interestingly, DFPP showed good
gelling capacity as reflected by lower gelling concentration and higher
gel mechanical strength and elasticity compared to those made from PPI.
The DFPP gels were twice higher in mechanical strength (7.71±0.21kPa)
than that prepared from PPI at pH 7. Strong gels were also obtained for
DFPP at pH 5. The gel morphology revealed phase separation between
protein and polysaccharides by heating, with stick-shaped fiber
(10-25μm) dispersed in the continuous protein networks. Eventually, the
polysaccharides including fiber and starch helped strengthen the gel
network by acting as fillers. This knowledge will help to expand the
applications of DFPP as a gelling ingredient in food formulations, but
also allow industry to benefit from the dietary fiber co-exist in the
protein to develop healthier food products using a holistic approach.
Plasma Endogenous Metabolome as Superior Biomarkers for Chemotherapy-Related Adverse Effects Compared to Drug and Its Metabolites: A Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Li Mingming , Yan Tao , Chen Jiani , Wang Zhipeng , Gao Shouhong , Deng Yi , Qu Shi , Liu Xuan , Huang Lifeng , Hou Xingyun , Tao Xia , Yang Mengxuan , Chen Wansheng
Published: April 2024

Background: Adverse effects resulting from Capecitabine-based
chemotherapy pose a significant concern in clinical practice. While the
pharmacokinetics (PK) approach has been commonly used to investigate the
toxicity of Capecitabine, its predictive ability remains limited. This
study aims to assess whether pre-chemotherapy endogenous plasma
metabolome can offer improved predictive values for Capecitabine
chemotherapy-related adverse events (CRAEs). Methods: Plasma samples
were collected from colorectal cancer patients at different time points:
0 hours (before), and 1, 2.5, 4 hours after oral Capecitabine
administration, to assess individual variations in exposure levels of
Capecitabine and its metabolites. Additionally, the endogenous
metabolome profile was analyzed using UHPLC-MS/MS and UHPLC/Q-TOF-MS.
Results: Capecitabine and its metabolites can predict two CRAEs, with
5-FU, 5’-DFCR, and FUH2 exposures being associated with diarrhea and
thrombocytopenia, respectively. In contrast, identified plasma
engougenous biomarker metabolites can predict all seven observed CRAEs.
These CRAE-related endogenous plasma metabolites are involved in various
physiological functions, including cell proliferation, maintenance, and
inflammation. Pre-chemotherapy endogenous plasma metabolites established
superior predictive performance for CRAEs (AUROC values ranging from
0.834 to 0.984) compared to conventional drug exposure (AUROC values
ranging from 0.737 to 0.773). Additionally, the endogenous plasma
metabolome demonstrated a strong correlation with Capecitabine and its
metabolite exposures. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that
pre-chemotherapy endogenous plasma metabolome serve as superior
biomarkers for predicting Capecitabine-related adverse effects,
surpassing the value of exposures to Capecitabine and its metabolites.
This finding holds significant potential in guiding personalized
medicine approaches.
On the Correlation between Fatigue Behaviour and the Multiphase Microstructure of a Super Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Moreira Aida B. , Costa Ana P. O. , Ribeiro Laura M.M. , Santos Abel D. , Jesus Abilio De
Published: April 2024

Super duplex stainless steels (SDSS) have an ideally dual-phase
microstructure composed of austenite and ferrite. However, due to
variations in cooling rate, secondary phases (SP), such as sigma, may
arise, jeopardising the fatigue performance. This work investigates the
correlation between macroscale fatigue behaviour and the multiphase
microstructure in SDSS. Fatigue tests were conducted using miniature
specimens representative of three regions of a cast C-Ring with
different cooling rates, meaning distinct SP amounts. A numerical model
was proposed to assess the fatigue test parameters. SEM and EBSD
techniques were used to quantify the SP and analyse the fatigue-crack
propagation, complemented by hardness and tensile test results.
Regression models were developed to correlate the percentage of SP, the
fatigue resistance and the number of cycles to failure, and to predict
the microstructural stress concentrations from the amount of SP. In
addition, a methodology is proposed for predicting S-N curves as a
function of the amount of SP. The results show a high correspondence in
the increase of the percentage of SP with the decrease in fatigue life.
The fatigue strength, for a given number of cycles to failure, tends to
decrease linearly with increasing the SP. The microstructural stress
concentration factor tends to increase with increasing SP. The research
described in this manuscript contributes to further knowledge on
predicting the behaviour of SDSS under different cyclic conditions,
which can be valuable for optimizing design and performance in various
applications.
Acute atopic dermatitis and urticaria imprints peripheral monocytes with proinflammatory-prone signature
Authors: Cheng Shih-Chin , Dang Buyun , Lv Yinyin , Gao Qingxiang , Zhang Jia , Chen Meihua , Ren Jun , Xu Hongzhi
Published: April 2024

Background IL-4 and IL-13, pivotal components of type 2
immunity, have been implicated in inducing trained immunity in myeloid
cells. However, the precise inflammatory response of monocytes in
individuals with type 2 immune disorders remains uncertain.
Objective To investigate the nuanced inflammatory response of
monocytes in patients with type 2 immune disorders, specifically atopic
dermatitis and urticaria, upon exposure to LPS stimulation.
Methods We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)
from patients diagnosed with atopic dermatitis and urticaria. Monocytes
were isolated from PBMCs and subjected to targeted LPS stimulation. RNA
extraction followed by RNA-seq and ATAC-seq analyses were conducted to
elucidate molecular responses. Results Monocytes from patients
with type 2 immune disorders exhibited an augmented inflammatory
response upon LPS stimulation. RNA-seq analysis demonstrated significant
upregulation of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-12, and
IL-1b. Moreover, there was a conspicuous enrichment of signaling
pathways associated with inflammation. ATAC sequencing revealed
heightened chromatin accessibility in patient monocytes, particularly in
the promoter regions of inflammatory genes. Conclusion Our
findings unveil an intensified pro-inflammatory response in monocytes
following LPS stimulation in type 2 immune disorders such as atopic
dermatitis and urticaria. The comprehensive RNA and chromatin analyses
underscore the pivotal role of type 2 immune responses in shaping the
epigenetically defined inflammatory phenotypes of peripheral monocytes.
The Efficacy and Safety of HER2-targeted Antibody-Drug Conjugates in Gastric and Gastro-oesophageal Junction Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ye Ziqi , Song Fanghua , Cheng Zhenhao , Wu Sen , Zhou Feiyan
Published: April 2024

Background: The HER2-targeted antibody‒drug conjugate (ADC) is a novel
approach for anti-HER2 treatment, and its efficacy in breast cancer
patients has been demonstrated in clinical studies. However, the overall
efficacy and safety of the various HER2-targeted ADCs in patients with
gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancer has not been reported.
Method: The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of
Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were
systematically searched. We assessed the quality of the included studies
and then/span>extracted the overall response rate (ORR),
disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall
survival (OS) to conduct the meta-analysis. Furthermore, we performed
subgroup and sensitivity analyses to explore the sources of
heterogeneity. The MINORS and RoB2 were used to assess the quality of
the included studies, and STATA 17.0 software was used for data
analysis. Results: Six single-arm studies and 2 randomized controlled
trials (RCTs) with a total of 871 patients were included. The pooled ORR
and DCR were 29% (95% CI: 20%-38%) and 71% (95% CI: 56%-86%),
respectively. The pooled mOS and mPFS were 9.68 months (95% CI:
7.78-11.58 months) and 5.60 months (95% CI: 4.59-6.61 months),
respectively. The incidence rates of all-grade adverse events (AEs) and
grade≥3 AEs were 98.8% and 58.8%, respectively (95% CI:
43.0%-74.5%). Conclusion: HER2-targeted ADCs showed great survival
benefits in GC/GEJC patients as second- and later-line treatments.
However, the relatively high incidence of grade≥3 AEs needs to be
considered.
Sialic Acid in the Regulation of Blood Cell Production, Differentiation, and Turnover
Authors: Lau Joseph , Irons Eric Edward , GC Sajina
Published: April 2024

Sialic acid is a unique sugar moiety that resides in the distal and most
accessible position of the glycans on mammalian cell surface and
extracellular glycoproteins and glycolipids. The potential for sialic
acid to obscure underlying structures has long been postulated, but the
means by which such structural changes affect directly biological
processes continues to be elucidated. Here, we appraise the growing body
of literature detailing the importance of sialic acid for the
generation, differentiation, function, and death of hematopoietic cells.
We conclude that sialylation is a critical post-translational
modification utilized in hematopoiesis to meet the dynamic needs of the
organism by enforcing rapid changes in availability of lineage-specific
cell types. Though long thought to be generated only cell-autonomously
within the intracellular ER-Golgi secretory apparatus, emerging data
also demonstrate previously unexpected diversity in the mechanisms of
sialylation. Emphasis is afforded to the mechanism of extrinsic
sialylation, whereby extracellular enzymes remodel cell surface and
extracellular glycans, supported by charged sugar donor molecules from
activated platelets.
Dehydrative Alkylation of Phenols with Alcohols via Formation of Triflate
Authors: Ni Shengjun , Zhou Fengyan , Zhang Wenzhi , Ma Jie
Published: April 2024

An efficient synergistic trityl cation
([Ph3C][B(C6F5)4])/triflic anhydride (Tf2O) catalyzed alkylation
of phenols with alcohols is reported. Benefiting from formation of the
triflate in situ, cheap and readily available active alcohols can be
used as the alkylating reagents and the reaction proceeds under mild
reaction conditions, with broad substrate scope. This protocol enables
the synthesis of ortho-selective phenols and 2,4,6-trisubstitued phenols
containing three different alkyl groups. tert-Amyl triflate was
synthesized and mechanistic studies support a triflate-mediated
alkylation process.
Prevalence of β-lactamase enzyme producing uropathogenic E.coli isolates amongst diabetic and non-diabetic patients
Authors: S Aneesha , Palavesam Suganthi , Lakshmi Yamini
Published: April 2024

Urinary tract infections are common and occasionally life threatening
condition amongst diabetic and non-diabetic patients. The present study
investigated the distribution of β-lactamase enzyme producing
uropathogenic E.coli isolates amongst diabetic and non-diabetic
patients. Collected isolates were identified and confirmed as
uropathogenic E.coli by standard microbiological procedure and
antibiotic susceptibility were screened by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion
method. Phenotypic detection of β- lactamases such as ESBL, AmpC β-
lactamase and carbapenemase were determined by double disc diffusion
method, disc approximation test and modified Hodge test respectively. β-
lactamase encoding genes such as TEM, SHV,CTX-M for ESBLs, ACC, EBC,
CIT,DHA, MOX and FOX for AmpC-β-lactamase and KPC, IMP, VIM, NDM and
OXA-48 for carbapenemase were detected by PCR method. Out of 306
isolates, 280 (140 from diabetic and 140 from non-diabetic UTI patients)
non-repetitive isolates were identified and confirmed as Uropathogenic
E.coli. Antibiotic screening revealed that 124 diabetic (88.57%) and
117 non-diabetic (83%) isolates were resistant to at least one
antibiotic included in the study. Phenotypic confirmation of various
β-lactamase enzymes such as ESBL (diabetic=85/85; 100% and
non-diabetic=78/79; 98.7%), AmpC β-lactamase (diabetic=26/36; 72.2%
and non-diabetic=18/26; 69%) and carbapenemase (diabetic=19/25; 76%
and non-diabetic=13/15; 86.6%) were determined. ESBL encoding genes
(diabetic=74/85; 87.05% and non-diabetic=65/78(83.3%), AmpC β-
lactamase encoding genes (diabetic=21/26; 80.8% and non-diabetic=12/18;
66.6%) and carbapenemase encoding genes (diabetic=18/19; 94.73% and
non-diabetic=11/13; 84.61%) were genotypically confirmed. This study
showed that the number of beta-lactamase producing UPEC isolates were
phenotypically and genotypically higher in diabetic than non-diabetic
patients.
Privacy Preservation of Large Language Models in the Metaverse Era: Research Frontiers, Categorical Comparisons, and Future Directions
Authors: Huang Dabin , Xiang Kunlan , Zhang Xiaolei , yang Haomiao
Published: April 2024

Large language models (LLMs), with their billions to trillions
of parameters, excel in natural language processing, machine
translation, dialogue systems, and text summarization. These
capabilities are increasingly pivotal in the Metaverse, where they can
enhance virtual interactions and environments. However, their extensive
use, particularly in the Metaverse’s immersive platforms, raises
significant privacy concerns. This paper analyzes existing privacy
issues in LLMs, vital for both traditional and Metaverse applications,
and examines protection techniques across the entire life cycle of these
models, from training to user deployment. We delve into cryptography,
embedding layer encoding, differential privacy and its variants, and
adversarial networks, highlighting their relevance in the Metaverse
context. Specifically, we explore technologies like homomorphic
encryption and secure multi-party computation, which are essential for
Metaverse security. Our discussion on Gaussian differential privacy,
Renyi differential privacy, Edgeworth accounting, and the generation of
adversarial samples and loss functions, emphasizes their importance in
the Metaverse’s dynamic and interactive environments. Lastly, the paper
discusses the current research status and future challenges in the
security of LLMs within and beyond the Metaverse, emphasizing urgent
problems and potential areas for exploration.
Livestock predation in the rehabilitated Bilema Community Conservation Area, East Gojam Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Tamrat Misganaw
Published: April 2024

Bilema Community Conserved Area (BCCA) was degraded due to intensive
human encroachment and many of the wild animals were eliminated.
However, since the last 30 years the area has been well conserved and
rehabilitated by the surrounding community’s initiatives, and carnivores
could recover and reoccupy it. The current study aimed to assess the
level of livestock predation in and around BCCA. Call-up method was
applied to estimate carnivore densities and questionnaire surveys were
conducted to estimate the magnitude of carnivore predation at three
different distant villages from the periphery of the BCCA. The study
revealed that spotted hyena (Crocuta Crocuta) and black-backed jackals
(Lupulella mesomelas) were the major livestock predators in BCCA. A
density 1.6 of spotted hyenas and 0.36 of black-backed jackals were
recorded per one ha of the conserved area. Spotted hyenas attacked
cattle, sheep, goats and donkeys, while black-backed jackals predated
sheep, goats and poultries. About 5.4% of the total livestock owned by
the respondents were predated by the two carnivores in three years
period (2021 – 2023) and responsible for 36,796 USD economic loss.
Spotted hyenas’ predation mainly from enclosure and their higher
predation was recorded during the wet season, while black-backed jackals
attacked livestock around the periphery mainly from the inside of BCCA,
and their higher kills were recorded during the dry season. Spotted
hyena predations exhibited significantly higher outside of the BCCA, and
nearly consistent from boarders of the BCCA towards outside. In total,
livestock predation strongly affects local communities’ livelihoods
around BCCA. When predators attack continue, people may be triggered to
retaliate against predators which in turn threatens the persistence of
carnivore populations. Hence, for the sustainable coexistence of
carnivores and local communities living around BCCA proper compensation
of the economic loss and appropriate conflict mitigation practices
should be promoted and implemented.
A Two-Stage Approach for Single Thermal Image Restoration
Authors: Liu Guanyu , Xu Jinxiang , Cheng Yihui , Su Yi , Zhang Ruiheng
Published: April 2024

Thermal images, extensively utilized in various communication
applications, are concurrently impacted by noise, contrast, and details.
However, existing image restoration methods, designed for RGB domain,
exhibit suboptimal effects when applied to thermal domain due to a lack
of consideration for the interaction between noise and contrast,
consequently resulting in detail losses. In this letter, we propose a
two-stage deep network based on this interaction for thermal image
enhancemnet. Our network decouples the image restoration task into a
denoising stage and a contrast improvement stage for simultaneous
denoising and contrast improvement. Detail information is extracted,
preserved, and fused in the process of the entire network to avoid the
detail losses. Extensive experiments show that our propsoed method
outperforms other state-of-the-art approachs in terms of PSNR , SSIM,
and visual effect.
Mathematical modelling of the anaerobic digestion process with acidogenic and methanogenic biomasses
Authors: Khattabi Noha El , Ahlamine Iliyass , Alla abdellah
Published: April 2024

One of the most important sources of gas emissions is municipal solid
waste. In the context of renewable energy production and greenhouse gas
emission reduction, we are interested in the biogas produced by the
decomposition process of organic matter under anaerobic conditions in a
controlled landfill. We present a mathematical model of anaerobic
digestion with acidogenic and methanogenic biomasses. Then, we analyze
the model and show that an infinite number of non-hyperbolic equilibria
induce an attractor. We give numerical results that highlight the impact
of the mortality of acidogenic and methanogenic biomasses on biogas
production.
Complex Dynamical Analysis of Two Prey−One Predator Model in a Patch Environment Utilizing Spectral Bound
Authors: Sun Xuenan , Zhang Min , Zhang Weipeng
Published: April 2024

In this article, a two prey-one predator model in which prey and
predator disperse simultaneously in a heterogeneous environment with
n patches is proposed and analyzed. We prove that the solution of
the system is positive and uniformly ultimately bounded. Meanwhile, we
use the monotonic theory of spectral bounds to investigate the effect of
the dispersal rate on population dynamics. To be precise, we discuss the
stability behaviour for the trivial equilibrium and semitrivial
equilibrium as well as the uniform persistence of the system.
Furthermore, we prove the global asymptotic stability of the positive
equilibrium by constructing a global Lyapunov function which applies the
results from graph theory. Some numerical simulations are provided to
show the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
New crushing approach for δ 18 O and δ 2 H measurements of fluid inclusion water in quartz mineral veins using Cavity-Ring Down Spectroscopy
Authors: Huseynov A.A.O. , (Jeroen) H. J. L. van der Lubbe , Verdegaal-Warmerdam Suzan , Postma O. , Schroeder J. , Vonhof Hubert
Published: April 2024

Fluid-inclusions in mineralized fracture infillings (i.e. veins) could
preserve information about sub-surface fluids like temperature and
salinity. The isotopic composition of water in these fluid-inclusions
could provide direct evidence of the provenance of these fluids and
indirectly about the temperatures and rate of vein formation. So far,
the isotope compositions of fluid-inclusion have been mainly derived
from carbonate veins and other precipitates like speleothems. The aim of
this study is to analyse the δ O and δ
H isotopic compositions of water fluid inclusions of
quartz vein using a Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) analyser in
combination with a moisturized nitrogen background and mechanical
stepwise crushing. For this study, we analysed δ O
and δ H values of fluid inclusions quartz veins from
three north-western European locations formed during the Variscan
orogeny. Prior to crushing, the fluid-inclusions rich fraction was
separated from the pure quartz fraction from other mineral phases and
host rock by using conventional heavy liquid mineral and magnet
separation technique to avoid from adsorbed atmospheric water
contaminant or “bleeding” effect from intergranular or primary
permeability water. Raman spectrometry detected some rare occurrences of
hydrocarbon, methane and nitrogen. The samples were sequentially crushed
to minimize the influence of (pseudo)secondary on the isotopic signal of
the primary fluid-inclusion. The results from single and stepwise
mechanical crushing, together with interlaboratory comparisons, exhibit,
reliable and consistent isotopic patterns across locations with high
accuracy and precision (for δ O 1SD<0.8‰;
for δ H 1SD<1.5‰). The obtained data aligns
with the existing Global Meteoric Water Line, providing evidence for the
presence of meteoric fluids in the examined fold-and-thrust belt of the
Variscan orogeny. These findings demonstrate that the CRDS approach can
be successfully used in other geological research to investigate fluids
pathways within the upper crust and the formation of minerals.
Improvement the classification of a nanocomposite using nanoparticules based on a meta-analysis study, Recurrent Neural Network and Recurrent Neural Network Monte-Carlo algorithms
Authors: LOUKIL Rania , GAZEHI Wejdene , BESBES Mongi
Published: April 2024

This paper may be the first meta-analysis that presents a comprehensive
synthesis of scientific works spanning the last five years, focusing on
methodologies and results related to the analysis of nanocomposite using
nanoparticules. The primary objective is to identify the optimal
algorithm using software information and leading to better
classification methodology. Specifically, this study come up with the
advantages and the drawbacks of the most used algorithms and proposes an
enhancement and performance of Recurrent Neural Networks based Long
Short Term Memory (LSTM) neurons. Besides, a comparaison of Deep
Learning methods for the classification of polymeric nanoparticles, with
polypropylene serving as a case study will be implemented. Experiment
comparison were conducted to assess with one physical property, later
expanded to four properties and finally to eight properties. Neural
networks, including Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Recurrent Neural
Networks (RNN), and Recurrent Neural Networks-Monte Carlo, were employed
for simulations. The evaluation criteria encompassed accuracy,
calculation time, mean square error (MSE) and other metrics. The
findings contribute to the selection of an optimal algorithm for the
analysis of polymeric nanoparticles, emphasizing the potential of Deep
Learning methodologies, particularly Recurrent Neural Networks Monte
Carlo, in advancing classification accuracy and efficiency.
Global profiling of lysine ubiquitylation in human hypothalamus
Authors: Yang Jun-Tao , Liu Jiang-Feng , Zhang Zhi-Yi , Ding Tao , Wang Qiaochu , Shi Chun-Mei , Zhang Xutong , Kong Jie
Published: April 2024

Ubiquitylation, a critical post-translational modification, regulates
various biological pathways. Despite its implications in diseases like
cancer, the ubiquitinome of the human hypothalamus remains inadequately
explored. We conducted label-free ubiquitinome analysis on hypothalamus
samples from healthy elderly individuals, identifying 21,815
ubiquitylated sites across 5,314 proteins. Motif analysis revealed
specific residue preferences. Functional enrichment analysis revealed
significant roles in cellular processes, particularly in transport and
catabolism pathways. Analysis of E3 ligase and deubiquitinating enzyme
substrates emphasized dynamic protein turnover regulation. Integration
with pathway analysis unveiled the significance of ubiquitinated
proteins in neurological pathways, underscoring their relevance to
neurological function and dysfunction. This study provides crucial
insights into hypothalamic ubiquitination, highlighting the pressing
need for further investigation into ubiquitin-mediated pathways in
neurological disorders.
Symbiont acquisition strategies in post-settlement stages of two co-occurring deep-sea Rimicaris shrimp.
Authors: Guéganton Marion , Methou Pierre , Aubé Johanne , Noël Cyril , Rouxel Ouafae , Cueff-Gauchard Valérie , Gayet Nicolas , Durand Lucile , Pradillon Florence , Cambon-Bonavita Marie-Anne
Published: April 2024

At deep-sea hydrothermal vents, deprived of light, most living
communities are fuelled by chemosynthetic microorganisms. These can form
symbiotic associations with metazoan hosts, which are then called
holobionts. Among these, two endemic shrimp of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge
(MAR), Rimicaris exoculata and Rimicaris chacei are
colonized by dense and diversified chemosynthetic symbiotic communities
in their cephalothoracic cavity and their digestive system. Although
both shrimp harbor similar communities, they exhibit widely different
population densities, distribution patterns at small scale and diet, as
well as differences in post-settlement morphological modifications
leading to the adult stage. These contrasting biological traits may be
linked to their symbiotic development success. Consequently, key
questions related to the acquisition of the symbionts and the
development of the holobiont are still open. Here we examined symbiotic
development in juveniles of R. exoculata and R. chacei
from TAG and Snake Pit using 16S metabarcoding to identify which
symbiotic lineages are present at each juvenile stage. In addition, we
highlighted the abundance and distribution of microorganisms at each
stage using Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH) and
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). For the first time,
Candidatus Microvillispirillaceae (midgut tube),
Candidatus Foregutplasma rimicarensis and Candidatus
BG2-rimicarensis (foregut) were identified in late juveniles stages.
However, these lineages were absent in early juveniles stages, which
coincides for the midgut tube with our observations of an immature
tissue, devoid of microvilli. Conversely, symbiotic lineages from the
cephalothoracic cavity were present from the earliest juvenile stages of
both species and their overall diversities were similar to those of
adults. These results suggest different symbiont acquisition dynamics
between the cephalothoracic cavity and the digestive system, which may
also involve distinct transmission mechanisms.
Application of Energy Storage Systems to Improve the High Current of Distribution Feeders During Uninterrupted Load Transferring
Authors: Chang Chien-Kuo , Tsai Hua-Wen , You Zhen-Yu
Published: April 2024

A power distribution system occasionally requires uninterrupted load
transfer to avoid affecting the quality of power consumption, but the
differences in voltage amplitudes and phases of both feeders may cause
short-duration high currents. The critical issue of possible solutions
is the different phase angles. This paper proposes the joint application
of an energy storage system (ESS) and a proportional–integral
controller to compensate for the active and reactive power in one feeder
while using the voltage of the other feeder as the target value. The
compensated power is injected into the transfer feeder buses to regulate
the voltage amplitude and phase angles, thereby alleviating
short-duration high currents during the load transfer of feeders. In
this study, MATLAB/Simulink was used for circuit simulation analysis,
and an 11.4 kV feeder model for three-phase power distribution systems,
as well as an energy storage device, was constructed. Finally, the
simulation results are analyzed to examine the improvement of transfer
current under different feeder load scenarios.
A Novel Robust Interacting multiple model Filter for maneuvering target tracking
Authors: gu peng , Jing Zhongliang , Wu Liangbin
Published: April 2024

A robust interacting multiple model approach is proposed to address the
problem of accuracy and non-Gaussian measurement noise in maneuvering
target tracking. Firstly, the interacting multiple model effectively
improves the accuracy of maneuvering target tracking. Secondly, the
multiple fading factors are introduced into the prediction covariance
matrix for adjusting the gain matrix in real-time to enhance the
accuracy caused by model mismatch and improve the ability of state
transitions. Finally, the maximum correntropy criterion effectively
promotes the robustness to outliers. The effectiveness of the proposed
approach has been verified through simulation.
Removal of Empty Capsids from High-Dose Adeno-Associated Virus 9 Gene Therapies
Authors: Kish William S. , Lightholder John , Zeković Tamara , Berrill Alex , Roach Matthew , Wellborn William B. , Vorst Eric
Published: April 2024

Recombinant adeno-associated virus, serotype 9 (rAAV9) has shown promise
as a gene therapy vector for muscle and central nervous diseases.
High-dose requirements of these therapies present critical safety
considerations and biomanufacturing challenges. Notably, reduction of
empty capsids (ECs), which lack therapeutic transgene, from rAAV9
products is critical to maximize efficacy. Removal of rAAV ECs from full
capsids is a major downstream challenge because of their highly similar
biophysical characteristics. Ultracentrifugation (UC) reduces ECs but is
laborious and difficult to scale. In this paper, to replace a poorly
scalable UC process, we developed an anion exchange (AEX) chromatography
for rAAV9 EC reduction from full capsids. AEX load preparation by
dilution incurred major product loss. Addition of an osmolyte amino acid
and surfactants to dilution buffers increased yield and reduced
aggregation. Elution salts were screened to maximize yield and EC
reduction. The most promising load dilution buffer and elution salt were
used in combination to form an optimized AEX method. The process reduced
ECs three-fold, demonstrated robustness to a broad range of EC load
challenges, and was scaled for large scale manufacture. Compared to UC,
the AEX method simplified scale-up, reduced ECs to comparable levels
(20%), afforded similar purity and product quality, and increased yield
by 14%.
IIFS2.0: An Improved Incremental Feature Selection Method for Protein Sequence Processing Based on a Caching Strategy
Authors: Chaolu Meng , Pei Yue , Bu Yongbo , Liu Qing , Li Qun , Zou Quan , Zhang Ying
Published: April 2024

The purpose of feature selection in protein sequence recognition
problems is to select the optimal feature set and use it as training
input for classifiers and discover key sequence features of specific
proteins. In the feature selection process, relevant features associated
with the target task will be retained, and irrelevant and redundant
features will be removed. Therefore, in an ideal state, a feature
combination with smaller feature dimensions and higher performance
indicators is desired. This paper proposes an algorithm called IIFS2.0
based on the cache elimination strategy, which takes the local optimal
combination of cached feature subsets as a breakthrough point. It
searches for a new feature combination method through the cache
elimination strategy to avoid the drawbacks of human factors and
excessive reliance on feature sorting results. We validated and analyzed
its effectiveness on the protein dataset, demonstrating that IIFS2.0
significantly reduces the dimensionality of feature combinations while
also improving various evaluation indicators. In addition, we provide
IIFS2.0 on http://112.124.26.17:8006/ for researchers to use.
RuNP@[COK-12]-NH2 and RuNP@[COK-12]-NH2-imid for production H2 gas from the hydrolysis of NaBH4
Authors: Alshaikh Hind
Published: April 2024

Ru nanoparticles supported mesoporous silica based [COK-12]-NH2 3
and [COK-12]-NH2-imid 4 were prepared by a condensation method using
the [COK-12]-NH2 1 or [COK-12]-NH2-imid 2, respectively. The
catalysts 3 and 4 were characterized by various methods, including 3 and
4 by 29Si solid state NMR, XPS, TEM spectroscopy. They were assessed as
catalysts in the hydrolytic production of H2 from NaBH4. Their
efficiency was measured and the influence of several parameters of NaOH
concentration, temperature, catalyst loading and NaBH4 on the reaction
were studied to identify the best reaction conditions. Catalyst 4 was
found to be more efficacious than 3. The study of kinetics indicated
that the catalytic hydrolysis is first order with Ea of 29.0 and 32.1
kJ mol−1 for catalysts 4 and 3, respectively. Finally, the stability of
catalyst 4 was also examined: the activity of RuNP catalyst 4 which was
84% in the first run remained at 80% after the fourth run.