bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polioencephalomalacia in Buffaloes in the Amazon Biome
Authors: Barbosa José Diomedes , Martins Fernanda Monik Silva , Ferreira Filho Carlos Eduardo da Silva , Barbosa Camila Cordeiro , Vieira Eliel Valentim , Silva Ruama Paixão de Lima , Lopes Cinthia Távora de Albuquerque , Silveira Natália da Silva e Silva , Oliveira Carlos Magno Chaves , Brito Marilene Farias , Salvarani Felipe Masiero
Published: August 2023

The epidemiological and clinical pathological aspects of polioencephalomalacia (PEM) in five buffaloes (buffaloes 01 to 05) in the amazon biome are described. Epidemiological data were obtained during the clinical visit in which the animals with clinical signs compatible with polioencephalomalacia were submitted to a general and specific clinical examination of the nervous system. During the necropsy of the five animals, the intensity and location of the lesions were evaluated and fragments from different organs were collected and fixed in 10% buffered formalin and sent to the Pathological Anatomy Sector of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro for histopathological examination. Of the five studied animals, all were of the Murrah breed, four male and one female, with ages ranging from two months to one year. Two buffaloes (buffalo 01 and 02) were from the municipality of Castanhal, Pará, kept in an extensive breeding system on Urochloa brizantha pasture. Buffaloes 03 and 04 belonged to a property located in the municipality of Cachoeira do Arari, Marajó Island, Pará, and buffalo 05 was from a property located in the municipality of Itaubal, state of Amapá, all of them were raised in an extensive system in flooded of native pasture. At the clinical examination, all buffaloes had a body score between 2.5 and 3 (scale from 1 to 5), and there was noted decreased alertness, postural changes, marked hypermetria when stimulated to move, total or partial blindness demonstrated by colliding to the corral structures, head pressing and circumduction of the hindquarters when supported on the forelimbs, opisthotonos, muscle tremors, convulsions, paddling movements, sialorrhea, decrease in palpebral and pupillary reflexes and eyeball rotation placing the pupillary slit in a vertical position. At necropsy, mild lesions characterized by edema and flattening of the cerebral convolutions were observed. Histopathological examination showed laminar necrosis of the cerebral cortex. The diagnosis of polioencephalomalacia was based on epidemiological, clinical-pathological, and histopathological findings, similar to findings in other ruminants. The cause of polioencephalomalacia in the studied buffaloes was not established, which indicates the need for further studies to elucidate this disease in the species, mainly in the Amazon region.
Achieving Discharge Limits in Single-Stage Domestic Wastewater Treatment by Combining Urban Waste Sources and Phototrophic Mixed Cultures
Authors: Chacon-Aparicio Sandra , Villamil John Alexander , Martinez Fernando , Melero Juan Antonio , Molina Raul , Puyol Daniel
Published: August 2023

This work shows the potential of a new way of co-treatment of domestic wastewater (DWW) and a liquid stream coming from the thermal hydrolysis of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) mediated by a mixed culture of purple phototrophic bacteria (PPB) capable of assimilating carbon and nutrients from the medium. The biological system is an open single-step process operated under microaerophilic conditions at an oxidative reduction potential (ORP) < 0 mV with a photoperiod of 12/24 h and fed during the light Stage only, so the results can be extrapolated to outdoors open ponds operation by monitoring the ORP. The effluent mostly complies with the discharge values of the Spanish legislation in COD and P values (<125mg/L <2 mg/L), respectively, and punctually on values in N (<15mg/L). Applying an HRT of 3 d and a ratio of 100:7 (COD:N), the presence of PPB in the mixed culture surpassed 50% of 16S rRNA gene copies, removing 78% of COD, 53% of N and 66% of P. Furthermore, increasing the HRT to 5 d, removal efficiencies of 83% of COD, 65% of N and 91% of P were achieved. In addition, the reactors were further operated in a membrane bioreactor, thus separating the HRT from the SRT to increase the specific loading rate. Very satisfactory removal efficiencies were achieved by applying HRT and SRT of 2.3 and 3 d, respectively: 84% of COD, 49% of N and 93% of P despite low presence of PPB due to more oxidative conditions, which anyway step-by-step re-colonized the mixed culture until reaching >20% of 16S rRNA gene copies after 49 d of operation. These results open the door to scale up the process in open photobioreactors capable of treating urban wastewater and municipal solid waste in a single stage and under microaerophilic conditions by controlling the ORP of the system. This novel urban biorefinery allows reducing treatment costs of two urban wastes and embed them in the circular bioeconomy through water recycling and valorizing PPB biomass as a source of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus.
Formation of Layered Composite Materials "CeO2–TiAl6V4" for Medical Purpose by the Method of Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Sudarchikova Maria A. , Nasakina Elena O. , Baikin Alexander Sergeevich , Volchkov Ivan S. , Melnikova Alexandra A. , Mikhailova Anna Vladimirovna , Demin Konstantin Yu. , Konushkin Sergey V. , Sergienko Konstantin V. , Kaplan Mikhail A. , Gorbenko Artem D. , Kolmakov Alexey G. , Sevostyanov Michail A.
Published: August 2023

Nano- and micro-sized CeO2 surface layers based on titanium alloy TiAl6V4 were obtained by magnetron sputtering with or without subsequent annealing. The structure of the samples was determined using scanning electron microscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Hardness was measured by sclerometry. A direct linear dependence of the thickness of the surface layers on the deposition time and an extreme dependence, passing through a maximum, on the power are shown. A decrease in hardness with an increase in the thickness of the cerium oxide coating was noted. An increase in surface roughness, delamination and loosening of the surface layer, presumably associated with annealing, were noted. In samples with a surface layer thinner than 715 nm without annealing and 750 nm after annealing, the formation of a sublayer of TiO2, Al2O3, and Ce(VO4) was found, and in annealed samples with a layer length of less than 300 nm, all cerium dioxide reacted with vanadium dioxide to form vanadate.
Non-Cooperative Spectrum Sensing Strategy based on Recurrence Quantification Analysis in the Context of the Cognitive Radio
Authors: KADJO Jean-Marie , YAO Koffi , MANSOUR Ali , JEUNE Denis
Published: August 2023

This paper addresses the problem of non-cooperative spectrum sensing in very low signal noise ratio (SNR) conditions. In our approach, detecting an unoccupied bandwidth consists to detect the presence or absence of a communication signal on this bandwidth. Major well known communication signals may contain hidden periodicities, we use the Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) to reveal the hidden periodicities. RQA is very sensitive to a reliable estimation of the phase space dimension m or the time delay τ. In view of the limitations of algorithms proposed in the literature, we have proposed a new algorithm to estimate simultaneously the optimal values of m and τ. The new proposed optimal values allow the states reconstruction of the observed signal and then the estimation of the distance matrix. This distance matrix has particular properties which we have exploited to propose the Recurrence Analysis based Detector (RAD). RAD can detect a communication signal in a very low SNR condition. Using Receiver Operating Characteristic curves, our experimental results corroborate the robustness of our proposed algorithm comparing to classical widely used algorithms.
Spin-labeled Diclofenac: Synthesis and Interaction with Lipid Membranes
Authors: Baranov Denis S. , Smorygina Anna S. , Atnyukova Anastasiya N. , Dzuba Sergey A
Published: August 2023

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) from the group of phenylacetic acid derivatives, which has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. The interaction of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with cell membranes can affect their physicochemical properties, which, in turn, can cause a number of side effects in the use of these drugs. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy could be used to study the interaction of diclofenac with the membrane, if its spin-labeled analogs existed. This paper describes the synthesis of spin-labeled diclofenac (diclofenac-SL), which consists of a simple sequence of transformations such as iodination, esterification, Sonogashira cross-coupling, oxidation and saponification. EPR spectra showed that diclofenac-SL binds to in a lipid membrane composed of palmito-yl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC). 2H electron spin echo spectroscopy (ESEEM) was used to determine the position of the diclofenac-SL relative to the membrane surface. It has been established that the average its depth of immersion corresponds to the 5th position of the carbon atom in the lipid chain.
Use of Cells, Supplements and Peptides as Therapeutic Strategies for Modulating Inflammation after Spinal Cord Injury: An Update
Authors: García Elisa , Buzoianu-Anguiano Vinnitsa , Silva Garcia Raúl , Esparza Salazar Felipe , Arriero-Cabañero Alejandro , Escandon Adela , Doncel-Pérez Ernesto , Ibarra-Arias Antonio
Published: August 2023

Spinal cord injury is a traumatic injury that causes a catastrophic state in patients due to neuronal deficits, loss of motor and sensory function, and this is due to secondary deleterious events subsequent to mechanical damage that expands the death of neural cells beyond the initial trauma. One of the most important events is inflammation, which activates molecules like pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1beta, IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha) that provoke a toxic environment, inhibiting axonal growth and exacerbating CNS damage. As there is no effective treatment, one of the strategies developed is neuroprotection to preserve healthy neural tissue and reduce neuroinflammation. Some of the neuroprotective treatments that have been practiced are the use of cell therapy, the administration of peptides and molecules or supplements that have been shown to favor an anti-inflammatory environment, and help to preserve the cells and tissues surrounding the injured area, favoring axonal growth and improving locomotor function. In this review we will explain some of these strategies used in different animal models of spinal cord injury, their activity as modulators of the immune system and the benefits they have shown.
Rice Production in Ghana: A Multi-Dimensional Sustainable Approach
Authors: Danso Ofori Andrews , Titriku John Kwame , Xiang Xing , Ahmed Muhammad Irfan , Zheng Aiping
Published: August 2023

In Ghana, rice remains a critical crop, representing 15% of the country's GDP. However, production has been hindered by limited water access, degraded soil, pests and diseases, and ineffective pesticide use. These issues have impeded industry growth while adversely affecting the environment and impairing socioeconomic development. To combat these challenges, it is necessary to implement sustainable production strategies that emphasize environmental protection, resource management, and socioeconomic progress. This study evaluates sustainable rice production in Ghana, taking into account its consequences on the environment, socioeconomic growth, and food security. It pinpoints gaps and offers advice for stakeholders, policymakers, and scholars to transition to sustainability. The study illuminates the increasing significance of rice in Ghana and its role in food security, illustrating increased output due to widened land rather than higher yields. It underscores the necessity of fulfilling surging demand while implementing environmentally friendly practices. The paper scrutinizes the difficulties encountered by the rice sector, such as restricted water supplies and soil degradation, along with the adverse impacts of pests, diseases and inefficient pesticide utilization. Sustainable methods are imperative for Ghana's agribusiness, environmental protection, and socioeconomic progress. By embracing green techniques, prioritizing resource management, and investing in research, Ghana can surmount production issues. This review provides invaluable insight and suggestions for policymakers, academicians, and stakeholders alike to ensure sustainable rice production for current and future generations.
An Update on Pharmacotherapy of Glaucoma
Authors: Virani Shalini , Rewri Parveen
Published: August 2023

Progressive loss of retinal ganglionic cells (RGC) causes blindness in glaucoma. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is the most important, treatable risk factor. Currently, the management of glaucoma is centred at reducing the IOP, and drugs in the form of topical drops are the first line of management. Drugs reduce IOP either by suppressing aqueous humour secretion or improving the aqueous humour outflow. Newer drugs added during the past three decades to the armamentarium of glaucoma treatment have targeted the aqueous outflow. With an evolving understanding of the pathogenesis of glaucoma, the role of 24-hour IOP control and other IOP-independent risk factors affecting ocular blood flow and RGC toxicity is also recognised. The role of available drugs in controlling IOP over 24-hours is being evaluated. Improvement of ocular blood flow and neuroprotection are seen as potential drug targets in preventing the loss of RGC. In this article, we review the pharmacotherapy of glaucoma based on current therapeutic principles.
Progress in Wound Healing Products Based on Natural Compounds, Stem Cells and MicroRNA-Based Biopolymers in the European, USA, and Asian Markets: Opportunities, Barriers, and Regulatory Issues
Authors: Srivastava Girish Kumar , Martínez Rodríguez Sofía , Md Fadilah Nur Izzah , Markey Gavin , Looi Qi Hao Daniel , Shukla Priyank , Fauzi Mh Busra , Panetsos Fivos
Published: August 2023

Wounds are breaks in the continuity of the skin and the underlying tissues, due to external causes, such as cuts, blows and impacts, or even, during surgical interventions. Millions of people suffer minor or serious injuries, sometimes ending in death. Today, there are many commercially available products that promote healing from wounds. The high demand from the healthcare industry has created a huge market that continues to grow, fueling research and development of new wound healing products. In the present article, we review recent advances in wound healing products based on natural biopolymers, stem cells, and microRNAs. We analyze the advances of both, the commercial products and the products that are still in research phase, and we also include an overview of the opportunities, barriers, and regulatory issues for the commercialization of these products in the European, American, and Asian markets.
Understanding Epicardial Cell Heterogeneity During Development and Disease
Authors: Sánchez-Fernández Cristina , Rodriguez-Outeiriño Lara , Matias-Valiente Lidia , Ramirez de Acuña Felicitas , Franco Diego , Aránega Amelia Eva
Published: August 2023

The outermost layer of the heart, the epicardium, is an essential cell population that contributes, through epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), to form different cell types and provide paracrine signals to the developing heart. Despite its quiescent state during adulthood, in response to cardiac injury, adult epicardium reactivates and recapitulates many aspects of embryonic cardiogenesis supporting cardiac tissue remodeling. Thus, the epicardium has been considered as a crucial source of cell progenitors with important contribution to developing and injured heart. Although several studies have provided evidence about cell fate determination in the epicardium, to date it is unclear whether epicardial-derived cells (EPDCs) come from specific, and previously predetermined, epicardial cell subpopulations or if they are derived from a common progenitor. In recent years, different approaches have been used to study cell heterogeneity within the epicardial layer by using different experimental models. However, generated data are still insufficient to understand the complexity of this epithelial layer. In this review, we summarize the previous works supporting the cellular composition, molecular signatures and diversity within the developing and adult epicardium.
Crocus sativus, Olea Europea and Salvia spp: Role in Neuroprotection against H2O2 and Aβ-peptide Induced Cell Toxicity
Authors: Kofinas Aristidis , Pavlidis Nikolaos , Andriopoulou Christina E , Epeslidou Emmanuella , Leondaritis George , Aggelis Apostolis , Antoniadi Lemonia , Skaltsounis Leandros A , Konstandi Maria
Published: August 2023

Neurotoxicity belongs to the leading factors inducing neurodegeneration-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s disease. In particular, accumulation of β-amyloid proteins in the brain, a hallmark in AD, induces oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. The use of antioxidants in AD is not sufficiently effective and other pharmacological approaches tested failed to cure, prevent or retard the progression of the disease. Clinical studies indicated that several medicinal plants display beneficial effects by improving memory and cognitive functions of patients with mild and moderate AD. In this study, the potential antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of Olea europea, Crocus sativus and Salvia spp extracts, as well as their main active compounds on cell viability was evaluated using an in vitro model of AD, the differentiated human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells to cholinergic neurons. Their effects were assessed against the H2O2- and β-amyloid- induced cell toxicity using the MTS test. Current findings indicated that Salvia fruticosa, S. officinalis, S. argentea leaf extracts and the active compounds, oleuropein, trans-crocin-3 and -4 display significant dose-dependent antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. It is of note though that the total phenolic fragment of Olea europea leaf extract includes several toxic compounds, such as oleocanthal, that markedly reduce cell viability and exacerbate the H2O2- and Aβ-induced cell toxicity. In addition, the Crocus sativus hydrophilic and diethyl ether extracts and all their active compounds tested markedly increased the H2O2-induced cell toxicity. In conclusion, the medicinal plants tested contain several compounds displaying dose-dependent effects against H2O2- and Aβ-induced neurotoxicity and could be used in AD, but they also contain several neurotoxic agents.
Nutritional Performance of Five Citrus Rootstocks under Different Fe Levels
Authors: Pestana Maribela , García-Caparros Pedro , Saavedra Teresa , Gama Florinda , Abadía Javier , Varennes Amarilis de , Correia Pedro José
Published: August 2023

Iron is an essential micronutrient for Citrus, playing an important role in photosynthesis and yield. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the tolerance to Fe deficiency of five Citrus rootstocks: sour orange (S), Carrizo citrange (C), Citrus macrophylla (M), Troyer citrange (T) and Volkamer lemon (V). Plants were grown for 5 weeks in nutrient solution that contained the following Fe concentrations (in µM): 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20. At the end of the experiment, biomass (dry weight), leaf area, total leaf chlorophyll (CHL) and the activity of root chelate activity (FCR) were registered. Additionally, the mineral composition of roots (R) and shoots (S) was evaluated. Principal Component Analysis was used to study the relationships between all parameters and, subsequently, the relations between rootstocks. In the first component, N-S, P-S, Ca-S, Cu-S, Zn-S, Mn-S and Zn-R and Mn-R concentrations were related to leaf CHL and FCR. Increases in leaf CHL, Mg-R, DW (shoots and roots) were inversely related to Cu-R, which was shown in the second component. The values obtained were consistent for V10, C15, and C20, but in contrast for S0 and S5. Overall, the Fe/Cu ratio was significantly related to CHL, which may be used to assist rootstock performance.
Role of Biomass in Decarbonization Efforts: New Extensions in the TIMES-CZ Model
Authors: Rečka Lukáš , Ščasný Milan , T. Laxton Dali
Published: August 2023

Forest biomass is one of the most significant renewable energy sources in the Czech Republic. Recently, Czech forests have been under attack by spruce bark beetles, threatening the stability of biomass supply also for energy purposes. The goal of this paper is to uncover the impact of four different biomass development scenarios and three policies on the energy system and to evaluate the contribution of biomass to decarbonization efforts. We use the TIMES-CZ energy system optimization model to perform the analyses. We provide a crucial extension of this model by regionalizing it into NUTS3 +1 regions. Our main findings are that under the expected price of various types of biomass and their transportation cost, energy system would still exploit available biomass almost entirely throughout the period under review; subsidizing the production cost of the most expensive type of biomass for households would help utilize the full potential of biomass; and power and heat sector and industry would compete for biomass consumption against the residential sector.
Colostrum Induced Passive Immune Transfer in Lambs
Authors: Ovet Caner
Published: August 2023

During last decades, production and consumption of small ruminant milk has been increased. As a result of it, sheep and goat farming has been developing and scientists are focused on these animal researches both clinical and feeding strategies. By the evolutionary challenges and adaptations, colostrum has a crucial role of immune complementation for litter. As a result of these challenges and adaptations neonatal life is especially more important in ruminants because of it affects their whole life and future of livestock. Passive immune transfer is the main mechanism that explained by biological evolution between dam and lamb and also it is effected by factors up to dam and up to the litter. Today importance of passive immune transfer is well known for the future of livestock economy and animal welfare. In the literature, researchers are focused on correlation between colostrum quality (especially immunoglobulin amounts) and blood serum levels of newborns. Aims of present review are to discuss datas of recent studies, point out different effecting factors in colostrum quality and passive immune transfer, enlighten and give new ideas to researchers.
Clinoptilolite—A Sustainable Material for Removal of Bisphenol A from Water
Authors: Dura Alina Marilena , Stefan Daniela Simina , Chiriac Laura , Trusca Roxana , Nicoara Adrian Ionut , Stefan Mircea
Published: August 2023

Bisphenol A is a remarkable chemical compound for its many applications mainly in the plastics industry, but also for its toxic effects on the environment and human health. BPA (4,4-isopropylidenediphenol) is an anthropogenic compound, moderately soluble in water (120 – 300 mg/l) at room temperature, and highly soluble in alkaline solutions, ethanol and acetone. BPA can bioconcentrate, bioaccumulate and biomagnify through food webs until it reaches humans. To prevent this, effective strategies are sought to allow its removal from the environment, through physico-chemical or enzymatic methods, advanced oxidation, adsorption and biodegradation, ultrasonic degradation. This article shows a comparative study regarding adsorption of BPA on Active carbon and zeolitic tuff, ZTC. In this paper, the characterization of the zeolitic tuff Rupea adsorbent, was carried out from an elemental and mineralogical point of view, pore size and elemental distribution, using SEM, EDAX, and XRD analysis. The pore size varies from 30 nm to 10 µm, atomic ratio Si/Al≥4, and the 80 % of mineralogical composition represent Ca Clinoptilolite zeolites Ca Clinoptilolite zeolite ((Na1.32K1.28Ca1.72Mg0.52)(Al6.77Si29.23O72)(H2O)26.84).
Also, a comparative study of the adsorbtion capacity of bisphenol A from synthetic solutions on activated carbon type - Norit GAC 830 W, GAC, as well as on Clinoptilolite-type zeolitic tuff, ZTC, Rupea, was carried out. The experiments were carried out at a temperature of 20 ºC, a pH of 4.11; 6.98 and 8.12, and ionic strength being assured using KCl of 0.01 M, and 0.1 M. The adsorption capacities of GAC and ZTC tend to 115 mg/g and 50 mg/g respectively, at 8.12 pH and ionic strength of 0 M. The Langmuir mathematical model most faithfully describes the adsorption equilibrium of BPA. The maximum adsorption capacity for both adsorbents increases with increasing pH, and decreases with increasing ionic strength.
Mathematical Modeling for Infinite and Finite Dimensional Production-Inventory Systems Subject to Demand Fluctuation
Authors: Davizón Yasser A. , Amillano-Cisneros Jesús Mateo , Leyva Morales José Belisario , Hernández-Santos Carlos , Smith Eric D. , Sánchez-Leal Jaime , Valenzuela-Saquelarez Blasioz , Olivares-Benítez Elìas , Ramírez-Mendoza Ricardo A. , Smith Neale R.
Published: August 2023

This research work aims to develop a mathematical modeling for production-inventory systems. Two mathematical models are present: An infinite dimensional, partial differential equation (PDE), production level modeling is present and a finite dimensional system for a coupled dynamic pricing, production rate and inventory level ordinary differential equations (ODE), integrating a proper Lyapunov stability analysis of the dynamical system and simulations.
Survey of Sensitization to Common Fungi in an Allergic Dog Population
Authors: Martins Luís
Published: August 2023

Most fungal species are commensals, not pathogenic for plants, humans, or animals. However, several species from genera Alternaria, Aspergillus, Trichophyton and Microsporum are common causes of disease, even for immunocompetent individuals, contributing to skin barrier impairment. A total of 68 allergic dogs were selected from a veterinary dermatology and allergy outpatient consultation, for conditions related to Malassezia overgrowth or other fungal complications. Allergy diagnosis was made through anamnestic and clinical criteria and allergy-implicated species were identified by intradermal testing (IDT) and serum determination of specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE). Dermatophagoides farinae, Dactylis glomerata and Malassezia pachydermatis showed as the higher sensitization species from each group. Significant correlations at p<0.05 were found between Dactylis glomerata and Phleum pratense grass pollens, Dermatophagoides farinae and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Acarus siro, Tyrophagus putrescentiae and Lepidoglyphus destructor dust/storage mites, and between fungi like Aspergillus mix and Penicillium or Alternaria alternata. A significant correlation was also found between sensitization to Aspergillus mix and D. farinae, D. pteronyssinus or A. siro. Rather severe dermatitis was observed where positive IDT to Malassezia pachydermatis was found, regardless of the presence of circulating sIgE, allowing us to perceive the usefulness of both sIgE and IDT for allergy diagnosis to fungi.
Llama 2: Early Adopters' Utilization of Meta's New Open-Source Pretrained Model
Authors: Roumeliotis Konstantinos I. , Tselikas Nikolaos D. , Nasiopoulos Dimitrios K.
Published: August 2023

The rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to witness the introduction of innovative open-source pre-trained models, fostering advancements in various applications. One such model is Llama 2, an open-source pre-trained model released by Meta, which has garnered significant attention among early adopters. In addition to exploring the foundational elements of the Llama v2 model, this paper investigates how these early adopters leverage the capabilities of Llama 2 in their AI projects. Through a qualitative study, we delve into the perspectives, experiences, and strategies employed by early adopters to leverage Llama 2's capabilities. The findings shed light on the model's strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement, offering valuable insights for the AI community and Meta to enhance future model iterations. Additionally, we discuss the implications of Llama 2's adoption on the broader open-source AI landscape, addressing challenges and opportunities for developers and researchers in the pursuit of cutting-edge AI solutions. The present study constitutes an early exploration of the Llama 2 pre-trained model, holding promise as a foundational basis for forthcoming research investigations.
The Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of Vanillic Acid and Vanillic Acid-Coated Silver Nanoparticles in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Male Rats
Authors: Alamri Eman Saad , El Rabey Haddad A.
Published: August 2023

The production of nanoparticles enhances the bioactivity of biological molecules for drug delivery to infection sites. This study explains how silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) coating enhanced the hypoglycemic effects of vanillic acid in male diabetic rats with diabetes brought on by streptozotocin. (STZ). Four groups of 24 rats were created for the investigation and divided into them. The first group rats (G1; untreated) were given a basal diet, whereas the other three groups all developed diabetes through STZ injection. Diabetic rats who were not getting therapy were included in the second group (G2; STZ-positive), whereas the other diabetic rats were divided into the third group (G3, vanillic acid-treated) and the fourth group (G4; AgNPs-coated vanillic acid treated). The treatment lasted four weeks. In G2, the induction of diabetes led to an increase in serum glucose, glycated proteins, renal indices, interleukin-6 (IL-6), K+, immunoglobulins, and lipid peroxidation, while decreased Ca++, Na+, and other antioxidants in the kidney tissue homogenate. In addition, aberrant signs were present in the pancreas and kidneys of diabetic rats. The renal and pancreatic tissues were effectively enhanced by vanillic acid or vanillic acid-coated AgNPs, bringing them very close to their pre-diabetic conditions. AgNPs-coated vanillic acid offered a stronger defense against STZ-induced diabetes and lessened the effects of hyperglycemia compared to ordinary vanillic acid. Additionally, using vanillic acid coated with silver nanoparticles greatly reduced inflammation when compared to using vanillic acid alone. This outcome suggests increased antioxidant activity.
Optoelectronic Effects of Copper-Indium-Gallium-Sulfur (CIGS2)-Solar Cells prepared by Three-stage Co-evaporation Process Technology
Authors: Li Tzu-Chien , Chang Chia-Wen , Tai Chia-Chun , Ho Jyh-Jier , Hsieh Tung-Po , Liu Yung-Tsung , Lu Tsung-Lin
Published: August 2023

In this paper, the performance of Cu-(In,Ga)-S2 (CIGS2) solar cells with adjusting composite CGI-ratio absorber is explored and compared through an improved three-stage co-evaporation technique. For co-evaporating CIGS2 absorber as a less toxic alternative to Cd-containing film, we analyse the effect of the CGI-ratio stoichiometry and crystallinity, and explore its opto-electric sensing characteristic of individual solar cell. The results of this research signify the potential of high-performance CIGS2-absorption solar cells for photovoltaic (PV)-module industrial applications. For the optimal CIGS2-absorption film (CGI=0.95), the Raman main-phase signal (A1) falls at 291 cm-1, which is excited by the 532-nm line of Ar+-laser. Using photo-luminescence (PL) spectroscopy, the corresponding main-peak bandgaps measured is 1.59 eV at the same CGI-ratio film. Meanwhile, the best conversion efficiency (=3.212%) and the average external quantum efficiency (EQE=51.1% in the visible-wavelength region) of photo-electric properties were achieved for the developed CIGS2-solar cells (CGI=0.95). The discoveries of this CIGS2-absorption PV research provide a new scientific understanding of solar cells. Moreover, this research undeniably contributes to a major advancement towards practical PV-module applications and can help more to build an eco-friendly community.
Thriving Beyond the Crisis: Teachers’ Reflections on Literature and Language Education in the Era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Globalization
Authors: Eslit Edgar
Published: August 2023

In the wake of globalization and the revolutionary impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI), literature and language education play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation to navigate an ever-changing world. This reflective concept paper explores the profound insights shared by educators, focusing on literature and language education amidst globalization and AI. Drawing on interviews and observations, teachers' reflections reveal the enduring value of literature in shaping young minds, fostering critical thinking, and promoting empathy. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of embracing multilingualism and cultural diversity to equip students for an interconnected world. In the face of challenges, educators showcase their resilience and adaptability, harnessing technology, particularly AI-driven tools, to foster future-ready learners. Identifying gaps and implications in literature and language education, this paper sets the stage for collective efforts among stakeholders to shape the future of education. Ultimately, teachers hold the key to nurturing a generation capable of embracing the complexities of the AI-driven global landscape with confidence and compassion, empowering students as transformative agents in a rapidly changing world.
Recovery of Educational Skills: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: ALERIA KIAVESTA
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to explore the experiences of teachers in the recovery of educational skills. Specifically, ten teachers of Andap National High School are selected for the in-depth interview. This study employed a qualitative-phenomenological research design of which in-depth interview (IDI) was used in gathering the data. The study utilized phenomenological approach to study a particular phenomenon concerning the post-pandemic experiences of teachers in the implementation of the face-to-face classes. After gathering sufficient amount of data through the conduct of in-depth interviews, thematic analysis was used to analyse further the results and to check the disparities and similarities of all responses gathered. This was the time wherein responses were categorized and organized into themes. The findings of the study revealed that the challenges encountered of educational skills recovery were sources of learning materials, learning gaps, learners characteristics, difficulty with comprehension and lack of interest. It was also revealed that the most challenging teaching experiences in the recovery of educational skills were catching attention, learning gaps, communicating to students, need for remedial instruction, retroactive interference and difficulty in understanding English Language. They frequently have to quickly convert lesson material they had intended to teach in a classroom setting to any learning modality implemented. Further, adjust and learn new trend, provide opportunities to develop new skills, helps to manage stress, improved educational outcomes, become well-rounded teacher, networking and learning and continue doing responsibilities helped in these insights had in confronting challenges brought by the pandemic.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Tuberculosis in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia: Hotspot Analysis
Authors: Bekele Dereje , Aragie Solomon , Alene Kefyalew Addis , Dejene Tariku , Warkaye Samson , Mezemir Melat , Abdena Dereje , Kebebew Tesfaye , Botore Abera , Mekonen Geremew , Gutema Gadissa , Dufera Boja , Gemede Kolato , Kenate Birhanu , Gobena Dabesa , Alemu Bizuneh , Hailemariam Dagnachew , Muleta Daba , Gilman SUI , Tafess Ketema
Published: August 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern in low and middle-income countries including Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the spatiotemporal distribution and identify TB risk factors in Ethiopia's Oromia region. Descriptive and spatiotemporal analyses were conducted. Bayesian spatiotemporal modeling was employed to identify covariates that accounted for variability and spatiotemporal distribution of TB. A total of 206,278 new pulmonary TB cases were reported in the Oromia region between 2018 and 2022, with the lowest annual TB case notification (96.93 per 100,000 population) reported in 2020 (i.e., during the COVID-19 pandemic) and the highest TB case notification (106.19 per 100,000 population) reported in 2019. Substantial spatiotemporal variations in the distribution of notified TB case notifications were observed at zonal and district levels with most of the hotspot areas detected in the northern and southern parts of the region. The spatiotemporal distribution of notified TB incidence was positively associated with different ecological variables. The findings of this study indicated that preventive measures considering socio-demographic and health system factors can be targeted to high-risk areas for effective control of TB in the Oromia region. Further studies are needed to develop effective strategies for reducing the burden of TB in hotspot areas.
High Temperature Energy Storage Properties of Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-0.06BaTiO3 Thin Films
Authors: Alaoui Ilham Hamdi , Lemée Nathalie , Belhadi Jamal , Le Marrec Francoise , Cantaluppi Anna , Lahmar Abdelilah
Published: August 2023

Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-0.06BaTiO3 (BNT-BT) thin films were prepared by both chemical solution (CSD) and pulsed laser deposition (PLD). The microstructure, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties were investigated. High stability of the dielectric permittivity (∆ɛ/ɛ(150 °C) ≤ ± 15%) over a wide temperature range from room temperature to 300 °C was obtained. Distinctly, the CSD film showed high TCC stability with variation of ± 5% up to 250°C. Furthermore, the CSD film showed an unsaturated ferroelectric hysteresis loop characteristic of the ergodic relaxor phase, however the PLD one exhibited almost saturated loop signature of the coexistence of both ergodic and non-ergodic states. The energy storage properties of the prepared films were determined using the P–E loops obtained at different temperatures. The results showed that these films exhibit stable and improved energy storage density comparable to the ceramic capacitors. Moreover, the CSD film exhibited more rigidity and better energy storage density that exceeds 1.3 J/cm3 under low applied field of 317 KV/cm as well as interesting efficiency in a large temperature range. The obtained results are very promising for energy storage capacitors operating at high temperatures.
Baseline Measurements of Waves and Currents along the Coast of Oman
Authors: Sana Ahmad , Chitrakar Prerana , Baawain Mahad , Al-Mamun Abdullah
Published: August 2023

The coast of Oman is observing huge coastal developments to materialize Oman Vision 2040 covering all the strategic sectors. Historical data of coastal hydrodynamic parameters is scarce, even though its importance for a proper design of coastal structures is recognized. Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers were deployed at eleven locations along the coast of Oman. These locations were selected based on their strategic importance for the country. The duration of deployment was from 60 to 265 days. The measured data of waves and current were collected and analyzed using the equipment-specific software and Excel. The significant wave heights can reach 2m along the whole coast of Oman. The southern coast is dominated by the swells. The maximum to significant wave height ratio is approximately 1.5 which is less than a value of 2 obtained using Rayleigh distribution. The coastal currents are stronger along the southern coast than those along the northern coast. The range of current magnitude is from 0.02 m/s to 0.8 m/s. This baseline study will help the public authorities in establishing permanent hydrodynamic measurement stations along the coast of Oman. Moreover, these measurements will serve the practicing engineers in designing coastal structures along the coast of Oman.
Kesesuaian proses perencanaan partisipatif terhadap rencana pembangunan desa di Triharjo, Kabupaten Kulon Progo
Authors: Khadijah Sabila , Kusumastuti Kusumastuti , Miladan Nur
Published: August 2023

Pembangunan desa menjadi tantangan di Indonesia dengan lebih dari 20.000 desa berada dalam status tertinggal dan sangat tertinggal berdasarkan Indeks Desa Membangun pada tahun 2019. Upaya mempercepat pembangunan desa bertujuan meningkatkan kesejahteraan serta kualitas hidup masyarakat dengan mendorong pembangunan desa agar mandiri, berketahanan, serta berkelanjutan. Undang-Undang Nomor 6 Tahun 2014 tentang Desa mengamanatkan agar pemerintah desa menyusun RPJMDes dengan pendekatan partisipatif. Di Kalurahan Triharjo, Kabupaten Kulonprogo, rencana pembangunan desa melalui serangkaian tahapan yang melibatkan masyarakat mulai dari identifikasi, perumusan rencana, hingga pengambilan keputusan. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui kesesuaian proses penyusunan RPJM Desa di Kalurahan Triharjo terhadap pedoman perencanaan dan konsep perencanaan partisipatif. Metode penelitian campuran digunakan untuk mengungkap partisipasi masyarakat, kapasitas kelembagaan, dan forum musyawarah yang terjadi sepanjang proses perencanaan. Analisis dilakukan untuk melihat kesesuaian tahapan dan substansi penyusunan RPJMDes sebagai dokumen utama pemerintah desa. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa produk perencanaan telah sesuai dengan pedoman pada kategori sedang. Proses perencanaan melibatkan berbagai unsur dalam masyarakat, dilaksanakan secara langsung, berkesinambungan, serta terdapat dorongan melalui musyawarah dari level teritorial paling bawah.
Kajian risiko bencana gempa bumi akibat aktivitas Sesar Lembang di Kabupaten Bandung Barat
Authors: Kinasih Farah Achyani , Miladan Nur , Kusumastuti Kusumastuti
Published: August 2023

Kabupaten Bandung Barat merupakan bagian dari Kawasan Strategis Nasional Kawasan Perkotaan Cekungan Bandung serta memiliki potensi di bidang pariwisata. Letaknya yang berbatasan langsung dengan perkotaan menjadikan kabupaten ini memiliki angka laju pertumbuhan penduduk tertinggi pada tahun 2010-2020 di Provinsi Jawa Barat. Namun, Kabupaten Bandung Barat dilalui oleh Sesar Lembang yang terpantau mengalami aktivitas sehingga dapat memicu ancaman gempa bumi dan pada saat ini sudah memasuki fase pelepasan energi. Dengan adanya kondisi tersebut, penelitian ini mengkaji risiko bencana gempa bumi yang mungkin terjadi akibat aktivitas Sesar Lembang. Komponen risiko bencana meliputi kerawanan dan kerentanan baik kerentanan fisik, sosial, maupun ekonomi. Penelitian ini menggunakan data utama dari studi dokumen dan data pendukung dari wawancara dan observasi, kemudian dianalisis dengan teknik skoring pada unit wilayah kecamatan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa wilayah Kabupaten Bandung Barat terbagi dalam empat tingkatan risiko bencana. Risiko bencana tertinggi berada pada ibu kota kabupaten dan daerah wisata potensial pada bagian utara Kabupaten Bandung Barat. Area ini termasuk dalam kecamatan yang dilalui oleh jalur sesar sehingga apabila Sesar Lembang beraktivitas dan memicu gempa bumi, maka daerah ini akan merasakan intensitas guncangan yang paling besar.
Evaluasi tingkat maturitas smart governance di Kota Surakarta tahun 2018 - 2020
Authors: Imtiyas Salsabila , Roychansyah Muhammad Sani
Published: August 2023

Smart city mengintegrasikan masyarakat, pemerintah dan teknologi untuk mengatasi permasalahan perkotaan dan meningkatkan kesejahteraan masyarakat. Surakarta merupakan salah satu kota di Indonesia yang mengimplementasikan smart city, termasuk smart governance. Pada tahun 2017, tingkat maturitas smart city di Kota Surakarta berada pada tingkat scattering yang menunjukkan belum adanya integrasi dalam berbagai implementasi smart city. Identifikasi tingkat maturitas tiap dimensi smart city merupakan cerminan kualitas hidup, semakin matang implementasi tiap dimensi smart city maka semakin baik kualitas seluruh aspek kehidupan masyarakat di kota tersebut. Penelitian ini menjelaskan mengenai tingkat maturitas dimensi smart governance di Kota Surakarta dan mengidentifikasi faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi tingkat maturitas smart governance di Kota Surakarta. Sasaran penelitian pertama menggunakan data sekunder data instansi terkait dan studi literatur dengan teknik analisis data kualitatif pemaknaan data dan kuantitatif skoring. Sasaran penelitian kedua menggunakan data primer berupa penyebaran kuesioner kepada 17 instansi dengan teknik analisis skoring. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tingkat maturitas dimensi smart governance di Kota Surakarta mengalami kenaikan tingkat maturitas scattered tahun 2018 menjadi integrated tahun 2019 hingga 2020. Faktor yang memiliki persentase pengaruh terbesar pada dimensi smart governance adalah faktor program-program yang berkelanjutan.
Automatic system to identify and manage garments for blind people
Authors: Silva Luís , Rocha Daniel , Soares Filomena , Sena Esteves João , Carvalho Vítor
Published: August 2023

In recent years, there has been increased attention towards the integration of handicapped individuals in society, with significant efforts being made to promote their inclusion. Technology has played a critical role in this effort, with several technological solutions emerging to help handicapped people in their daily routines, enabling them to better integrate into society. However, there are still challenges that remain, particularly in the area of basic tasks for blind people, such as managing and identifying personal garments. This study seeks to provide an improvement in the quality of life and well-being of blind people. A mechatronic automatism that allows the identification of user garments using sensors was developed. An interface developed with the implementation of a server responsible for managing the requests from the user is integrated. Algorithms were implemented for segmentation and classification of garments and for detecting the predominant colors of each garment. By the results obtained it was evidenced that the system could be an efficient solution to reduce the time taken for garment selection, particularly in terms of color differentiation and the selection of combinations for blind people.