bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AgiBuild: A Proposed Framework for Agile Building Adaptation Project Management Based on Literature Review
Authors: NG Pearl Li , Maqsood Tayyab , Khalfan Malik M , Rahmani Farshid
Published: May 2023

The Agile Building Adaptation (AgiBuild) framework is the adoption and adaptation of the large-scale agile framework for building adaptation projects. The agile methodology is proven to drive innovation by focusing on adaptation to change and user centricity. Similarly, the authors envision that the AgiBuild framework can fundamentally change the way that buildings are re-designed, refurbished, and operated. The AgiBuild framework is developed from the need of the building adaptation industry to manage uncertainties, overcome communication barriers, and improve innovation. In this study, a literature review of Agile and its impact on building adaptation projects is undertaken. Based on this systematic literature review, this paper defines the AgiBuilt framework and provides its benefits and barriers to implementation. A key finding of the literature review is that leadership influence, and adequate training form the key foundation for the implementation of the AgiBuild Framework. In defining the AgiBuild framework, the paper describes its components and how its implementation is likely to proceed. The authors propose that by adopting the AgiBuild framework, the industry can transform itself into a highly innovative and user-centred industry to improve productivity and performance of the construction industry..
EMab-300 Detects Mouse Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Expressing Cancer Cell Lines in Flow Cytometry
Authors: Goto Nohara , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Tanaka Tomohiro , Ishikawa Kenichiro , Ouchida Tsunenori , Kaneko Mika K. , Kato Yukinari
Published: May 2023

The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) overexpression or its mutation mediates the sustaining proliferative signaling in cancers. Human EGFR-targeting monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy such as cetuximab has been approved for clinical use in patients with colorectal cancers and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. A reliable preclinical mouse model is essential to further develop the mAb therapy against EGFR. However, a mAb against mouse EGFR (mEGFR) for flow cytometry has not been established. In this study, we developed a specific and sensitive mAb for mEGFR using the Cell-Based Immunization and Screening (CBIS) method. The established anti-mEGFR mAb, EMab-300 (rat IgG1, kappa) reacted with mEGFR-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary-K1 (CHO/mEGFR) and endogenously mEGFR-expressed cell lines, including NMuMG (a mouse mammary gland epithelial cell) and Lewis lung carcinoma cells by flow cytometry. The kinetic analysis using flow cytometry indicated that the dissociation constant (KD) of EMab-300 for CHO/mEGFR and NMuMG was 4.3 × 10−8 M and 1.9 × 10−8 M, respectively. These results indicated that EMab-300 applies to the detection of mEGFR by flow cytometry, and is expected in the use of preclinical study.
Prediction of Oscillations in Glycolysis in Ethanol Consuming Erythrocyte-Bioreactors
Authors: Protasov Evgeniy , Martinov Michael , Sinauridze Elena , Vitvitsky Victor , Ataullakhanov Fazoil
Published: May 2023

A mathematical model of energy metabolism in erythrocyte-bioreactors loaded with alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase was constructed and analyzed. Such erythrocytes can convert ethanol to acetate using intracellular NAD and, thus, can be used to treat an alcohol intoxication. Analysis of the model reveals that the rate of ethanol consumption by the erythrocyte-bioreactors increases proportionally to activity of incorporated ethanol-consuming enzymes until their activity reaches a specific threshold level. When the ethanol-consuming enzyme activity exceeds this threshold, the steady state in the model becomes unstable and the model switches to an oscillation mode caused by a competition of glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase and ethanol-consuming enzymes for NAD. An amplitude and period of metabolite oscillations first increase with the increase in the activity of e encapsulated enzymes. A further increase in these activities leads to a loss of the glycolysis steady state, and a permanent accumulation of glycolytic intermediates. The oscillation mode and the loss of the steady state can lead to osmotic destruction of erythrocyte-bioreactors due to an accumulation of intracellular metabolites. Our results demonstrate that the interaction of enzymes encapsulated into erythrocyte-bioreactors with erythrocyte metabolism should be taken into account in order to obtain an optimal efficacy of these bioreactors.
Motor Cortical Correlates of Paired Associative Stimulation Induced Plasticity: A TMS-EEG Study
Authors: Costanzo Matteo , Leodori Giorgio , Cutrona Carolina , Marchet Francesco , De Bartolo Maria Ilenia , Mancuso Marco , Belvisi Daniele , Conte Antonella , Berardelli Alfredo , Fabbrini Giovanni
Published: May 2023

Paired associative stimulation (PAS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that modulates synaptic plasticity in the human motor cortex (M1). Since previous studies have primarily used motor evoked potentials (MEPs) as outcome measure, cortical correlates of PAS-induced plasticity remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of this observational study was to investigate cortical correlates of a standard PAS induced plasticity in the primary motor cortex by using a combined TMS-EEG approach in a cohort of eighteen healthy subjects. In addition to the expected long-lasting facilitatory modulation of MEPs amplitude, PAS intervention also induced a significant increase in transcranial magnetic stimulation evoked potentials (TEPs) P30 and P60 amplitude. No significant correlation between the magnitude of PAS-induced changes in TEP components and MEP amplitude were observed. However, the linear regression analysis revealed that the combined changes in P30 and P60 component amplitudes significantly predicted the MEP facilitation after PAS. The findings of our study offer novel insight into the neurophysiological changes associated with PAS-induced plasticity at M1 cortical level and suggest a complex relationship between TEPs and MEPs changes following PAS.
Signal Design, Detection, and Identification Technology for Ground-Penetrating Communication Based on Ground Electrode Current Field
Authors: He Jingang , Su Zhong , Xu Zhan , Zha Yaxing , Wen Xiaowen , Zhou Xin
Published: May 2023

Due to collapse accidents in respect of underground projects such as tunnels and mines, the traditional underground communication system installed has been damaged, and the need for wireless strong penetration information transmission for emergency rescue during underground projects, in this study, we aimed to identify the transmission theory and key technologies related to ground electrode current field ground-penetrating communication technology. We also investigated applications in the field of transportation construction, which has important theoretical significance and significant social application value. In this article, we address the principles of a ground electrode current field through ground communication technology, signal design, and the optimal operating mode of the excitation source so as to adapt the operating mode, operating frequency, and transmission medium conditions of signal transmission. Through waveform design, energy is concentrated in the main conduction direction, which is beneficial to signal filtering at the receiving end and achieving highly reliable data transmission. On this basis, field environmental testing was conducted to verify this technology for the detection and identification of weak signals.
Relations Between Prosociality and Psychological Maladjustment in Chinese Children: Mediating Roles of Peer Preference and Self-Perceived Social Competence
Authors: Li Mingxin , Jin Guomin , Ren Tongyan , Haidabieke Aersheng , Chen Lingjun , Ding Xuechen
Published: May 2023

Despite empirical findings that prosociality can prevent children and adolescents from developing psychological maladjustment, little is known about the underlying mechanisms. The goal of the present study was to examine the mediating effects of peer preference and self-perceived social competence on the associations between prosociality and psychological maladjustment (i.e., depressive symptoms and loneliness). Participants were 951 students (Mage = 11 years, 442 girls) in Grades 3~7 from Shanghai, China. They completed peer nominations of prosociality and peer preference, and self-report measures of self-perceived social competence, depressive symptoms, and loneliness. Multiple mediation analyses revealed that: (a) both peer preference and self-perceived social competence mediated the relations between prosociality and psychological maladjustment; and (b) a serial indirect pathway (i.e., prosociality  →  peer preference  →  self-perceived social competence →  psychological maladjustment) emerged when controlling for grade and gender. These findings point to potential targets in the prevention and intervention of adolescent internalizing problems.
From Large to Powerful: International Comparison, Challenges and Strategic Choices for China’s Livestock Industry
Authors: Shi Zizhong , Li Junru , Hu Xiangdong
Published: May 2023

Accelerating the construction of livestock powerhouses is of great significance to better enhance the ability to guarantee the supply of livestock products and improve the quality, efficiency and competitiveness of the livestock industry. This study constructed an evaluation index system to assess the level of China’s livestock powerhouse and then performed an in-depth analysis of the issues and challenges facing the construction of livestock powerhouses. The research results showed that the level of China’s livestock powerhouse ranked 5th in the world, and the livestock industry was transitioning from being a large livestock country to a powerhouse, while there was still a large gap in terms of reaching the goal of constructing livestock powerhouses. There were significant differences in the level of livestock powerhouses across different livestock industries; the layer industry was the world leader in China, whereas the pig, sheep and goat, and broiler industries were stronger, while the beef cattle and dairy industries were weaker. There are still many challenges to accelerating the construction of livestock powerhouses in terms of supply security, scientific and technological support, operation systems, industry and supply chain resilience, international trade, policy support, etc. It is recommended to improve the institutional mechanism for the construction of livestock powerhouses, promote a high level of self-reliance and self-improvement in livestock science and technology, build a modern livestock operation system, enhance the resilience and security level of the industrial and supply chain, and consolidate and expand international trade and cooperation.
Energy-Based Response Prediction of Reinforced Concrete Buildings with Steel Damper Columns under Pulse-Like Ground Motions
Authors: Fujii Kenji
Published: May 2023

The response of structures under pulse-like ground motions is characterized by the large amount of energy input in a few cycles. Consequently, structures with insufficient strength may suffer severe damage owing to excessive deformation. In a previous paper, the energy-based prediction procedure for the peak and cumulative response of a reinforced concrete (RC) frame building with steel damper columns was proposed (Fujii and Shioda, 2023). Although this procedure was verified by comparison to the nonlinear time-history analysis (NTHA) results, the performance of the proposed procedure with pulse-like ground motion records has not been verified yet. In this study, the accuracy of the energy-based prediction procedure for an RC frame building with steel damper columns was investigated by considering pulse-like ground motions. The numerical analysis results reveal that the accuracy of the predicted peak response is satisfactory, which agrees with the results of the author’s previous study. However, the accuracy of the predicted total input energy to the building model depends on the ratio of the pulse period of the ground motion to the effective fundamental period of the building model. The reasons for this underestimation of the total input energy are discussed in this paper.
Rupture of the Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon from the Metacarpophalangeal Sesamoid and Joint in a Rheumatoid Patient
Authors: Winek Nathan C. , Wroblewski Andrew , Greco Victor E. , Palmer Bradley
Published: May 2023

Case:

A 54-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis presented with a flexor pollicis longus (FPL) rupture at the level of the metacarpophalangeal joint secondary to attritional damage from metacarpophalangeal (MCP) degenerative changes and exostoses from the radial sesamoid. She underwent direct tendon repair with debridement of the MCP joint and radial sesamoidectomy.

Conclusion:

Rheumatoid arthritis can potentially lead to rupture of the FPL tendon in locations distal to the carpus, namely at the level of the MCP joint. Contrary to other reports, a quality outcome may be obtained with direct repair and may not necessarily require tendon transfer, fusion, or grafting.
A realist evaluation of multifactorial falls risk assessment and prevention practices
Authors: Alvarado Natasha , McVey Lynn , Healey Frances , Dowding Dawn , Zaman Hadar , Cheong V-Lin , Gardner Peter , Lynch Alison , Hardiker Nick , Randell Rebecca
Published: May 2023

Background: Multifactorial falls risk assessments (MFRAs) and personalised interventions are recommended practices to reduce risk of falls in hospitals, but there is variation in implementation at practice level, reasons for which have not been explored. The aim of this study was to explore reasons for the variation.
Methods: Realist evaluation was used to interrogate how, why and in what contexts falls prevention practices are implemented. Four realist hypotheses about delivery of MFRAs and personalised interventions labelled: Falls Leadership, Facilitation via MFRA tools, Shared responsibility, and Patient participation were tested. Testing was conducted via a multi-site case study in three acute hospitals in older person and orthopaedic wards. Data collection included ethnographic observations (251.25 hours); interviews with staff (n=50), patients and carers aged over 65 (n=31); and clinical record review (n=60).
Results: MFRA tools were embedded in nursing practice, located in the Electronic Health Record. Nurses reported that these tools prompted assessment of individual falls risk factors and clinical records indicated that MFRAs and prevention plans were documented with consistency. However, assessment items varied between MFRA tools and competing priorities on nurse time could reduce tool use to a tick-box exercise. Patient supervision, delivered with different levels of intensity by nursing staff, was a key falls prevention intervention. Supervision appeared to constrain the extent to which responsibility for preventing falls was felt to be shared within multidisciplinary teams. Staff interactional skills such as conveying sincerity encouraged patient participation in interventions and understanding patient perspectives enabled personalisation of care in ways that supported their engagement in safety efforts; non-nursing staff and carers helped surface patient perspectives.
Conclusions: Organisational policy reflects the MFRA approach. However, to promote reliable delivery of multidisciplinary, personalised interventions, and to help ease the nursing burden, organisations should consider how systems can support clinical teams to work together cohesively to modify individual falls risk factors, and drawing on non-nursing staff and carers to help personalise care in ways that encourage patient participation and engagement in safety efforts.
Comprehensive, high-precision tree census enhances conservation justification for critically threatened tropical forest fragments
Authors: Webb Edward L. , Lalogafu’afu Avele Iofi , Mekuli Opeta , Olo Eti , Taisegi Lalakai , Taua Nerisa , Tualaulelei Ailao , Vaito'a Jeff , Jamaludin Johannes , Miles Adam C.
Published: May 2023

Small, isolated tropical forest fragments may be suitable targets for conservation intervention. Where significant financial investment is required (e.g. conservation easement, private land acquisition) justification requires evidence of importance, threat, and strategic importance. Comprehensive inventories of biodiversity can enhance this justification. We used historical imagery and a comprehensive high-precision tree census to assess conservation importance, threat and strategy of a 9.33 ha fragment of lowland pahoehoe lava flow forest. Using high-precision total station mapping of all trees (n = 4087), we demonstrate the botanic and wildlife importance of this fragment. We use aerial imagery extending back 70 years to illustrate the continued and increasing threats to this fragment and argue that conservation intervention can mitigate those threats and promote long-term persistence of the forest and its biodiversity. Finally, we illustrate the strategic cultural services of this site, in particular opportunities for public engagement with the forest. Finally, we discuss several key benefits of total station mapping for research, conservation and management of tropical forests.
Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index After Neoadjuvant Therapy Predicts the Pathological Response in Patients with Resected Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shen Shuo , Zhu Lingyu , Li Bo , Yin Xiaoyi , Shi Xiaohan , Gao Suizhi , Wang Huan , Zhang Guoxiao , Jing Wei , Zheng Kailian , Li Gang , Guo Shiwei , Jin Gang
Published: May 2023

Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients have improved prognosis after neoadjuvant therapy (NAT). However, there is a lack of biomarkers to predict the pathological response preoperatively. We evaluated the predictive value of multiple biomarkers, including inflammatory biomarkers, for predicting the pathological responses.
Methods: We respectively reviewed the records of patients with localized PDAC who underwent NAT followed by resection between January 2017 and May 2021 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University. The patients were divided into the major pathological response (MPR) and non-MPR groups, according to the tumor regression grade. Univariate and multivariate predictors of MRP were explored. The predictive factors identified on multivariate analysis were used to establish a nomogram prognostic model, which was evaluated using the Decision Curve Analysis (DCA).
Results: A total of 150 patients, including 21 in the MPR and 129 in the non-MPR group, were analyzed. In the multivariate analysis of the MRP group, normal CA19-9 level (<37U/ml)(odds ratio, OR = 32.014; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 3.809–269.071; p = 0.001), post-NAT SII < 530 (OR = 14.739; 95% CI = 2.811–77.265; p = 0.001), and use of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (OR = 8.370; 95% CI = 2.175–32.205) predicted MPR in PDAC patients. DCA showed that the nomogram prognostic model had a higher predictive value than standard radiological assessments.
Conclusions: In resected PDAC, post-NAT normal CA19-9 level, post-NAT SII, and use of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy predicted MPR after NAT in PDAC patients. Post-NAT SII can be used as a biomarker to determine the treatment response.
Association between CXCL5 and the Coronary Artery Disease and identify the effects of CXCL5 on the adhesion and migration of THP-1 to ECs
Authors: Liu Tengfei , Ding Chunhua
Published: May 2023

Aims: Chemokines play important roles in the development and progression of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between CXCL5 and the risk of CAD and try to reveal the relative mechanisms.
Methods: 395 CAD patientsand 403 controls were enrolled in this study. Using RT-PCR method to detected CXCL5 gene expression and Elisa method to determine CXCL5 plasma levels of were tested by in 160 CAD patients matched well with 160 controls. Established CXCL5over expression, reduction and control EC lines; The chemotactic ability of THP-1 cells to ECs was evaluated by adhesion and transwell assay, and the signaling pathway expression was detected by Western blot.
Results: Our study revealed CXCL5 gene expression and serum levels in CAD group were much higher than those in control group (P < 0.01, respectively). CXCL5 concentrations in CAD group (4.85 ± 0.19ng/mL) were significantly higher than that in control group (3.66 ± 0.14ng/mL) (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated CXCL5 was a susceptibility factor of CAD and significantly correlated with CAD (P < 0.05). In adhesion and migration experiments, the numbers of THP-1 cells in CXCL5 overexpression groups (EO) were much higher than CXCL5suppression groups (ES), lenti - MOCK infected groups (MOCK) and non - infected groups (EN) (P value < 0.05, respectively). Nevertheless, numbers of THP-1 cells in ES groups were significantly lower than other groups (P < 0.01, respectively).
Conclusions: The evidence from our study indicated that CXCL5 might be a new biomarker in assessing the risk of CAD. Our study showed that CXCL5overexpression facilitate the adhesion and migration of THP-1 to ECs.
SCR-6852, an oral and highly brain-penetrating estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) effectively shrinks tumors both in intracranial and subcutaneous ER+ breast cancer models
Authors: Zhou Feng , Yang Guimei , Xue Liting , Liu Yajing , Guo Yao , Zhu Ji , Yuan Linlin , Gu Peng , Tang Feng , Shan Jinwen , Tang Renhong
Published: May 2023

Background: Targeted estrogen receptor degradation has been approved to effectively treat ER + breast cancers. Due to the poor bioavailability of fulvestrant, the first generation of SERD, many efforts were made to develop oral SERDs. With the approval of Elacestrant, oral SERDs demonstrated superior efficacy than fulvestrant. However, due to the poor ability of known SERDs to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB), breast cancer patients with brain metastasis cannot benefit from clinical SERDs.Methods The ER inhibitory effects were evaluated on ERα protein degradation, and target genes downregulation. And anti-proliferation activities were further determined in a panel of ER + breast cancer cell lines. The subcutaneous and intracranial ER + tumor models were used to evaluate the efficacy of anti-tumor effects. Brain penetrability was determined in multiple animal species.Results SCR-6852 is a novel SERD and currently is under early clinical evaluation. In vitro, studies demonstrated that it strongly induced both wildtype and mutant ERα degradation. It potently inhibited cell proliferation in a panel of ER + breast cancer cell lines, including the cell lines containing ESR1 mutations (Y537 and D538). Furthermore, SCR-6852 showed completely antagonistic activity on the ERɑ signal axis identified both in vitro and in vivo. Oral administration of SCR-6852 at 10mpk resulted in tumor shrinkage which was superior to Fulvestrant at 250mpk, Notably, in the intracranial tumor model, SCR-6852 effectively inhibited tumor growth and significantly prolonged mice survival, which correlated well with the high exposure in brains. In addition to mice, SCR-6852 also exhibited high brain penetrability in rats and dogs.Conclusions SCR-6852 is a best-in-class SERD with high potency in inducing ERα protein degradation and completely antagonistic activity on ERɑ signaling in vitro and in vivo. Due to the high brain penetrability, SCR-6852 could be used to treat breast patients with brain metastasis.
Extent of interlocking and metallurgical bonding in friction riveting of aluminum alloy to steel
Authors: Srivast Abhinav , Das Hrishikesh , Tamayo Daniel Ramirez , Li Lei , Pole Mayur , Gwalani Bharat , Soulami Ayoub , Santos Jorge F. dos , Kappagantula Keerti S. , Reza-E-Rabby MD
Published: May 2023

In this study, the joining of 6061-T6 aluminum alloy and DP590 steel using a M42 steel rivet via friction riveting technique is investigated. The surface morphology and microstructure characterization reveal the formation of an anchor zone that imparts mechanical interlock as well as the formation of metallurgical bonds at the interface of aluminum and steel. A combination of interlocking and bonding results in the achievement of a high load-carrying capacity of 5.7 kN during lap shear testing at room temperature. A finite element-based computational model was developed which accurately predicted the lap shear response of the joint. The model revealed that the metallurgical bond formed during fric-riveting adds 39% peak load strength to the joint. An extensive microstructural investigation, post-lap-shear fractography, and the modeling results, together provided insights on the joint failure mechanism. This study highlights that friction riveting is a promising method for aluminum-to-steel dissimilar joining, which is important for lighweighing automotive vehicles for energy efficiency.
Fault Estimation for Nonlinear Uncertain Systems with Disturbance Utilizing Neural Network-Based Robust Iterative Learning Scheme
Authors: Chen Zhengquan , Huang Ruirui , Ma Jiulong , Wang Jinjin , Hou Yandong
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a novel neural network-based robust iterative learning fault estimation scheme is proposed to address the problem of fault modeling and estimation in nonlinear manipulator systems with disturbances and parameter uncertainties. The aim is to enhance the rapidity, efficiency, and accuracy of fault estimation. Firstly, the modeling for flexible manipulator control system is constructed as a preparation of iterative learning fault estimation observer design. Then, the neural network model is constructed to optimize the gain parameters of iterative learning fault estimator to approximate nonlinear uncertainties. Additionally, a H∞ robust technique is used to suppress fault variation rate and disturbances, which enhances the speed of estimation and reduces the impact of disturbances. So that the estimated fault can rapidly and accurately track the actual fault over the whole time interval and iterations. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed neural network-based robust iterative learning scheme.
Network analysis of quality of life in older breast cancer patients: A cross-sectional research from China
Authors: Xiao Min , Qian Xiaoyan , Chen Xi , Ji Lei , Xiu Meng , Li Zhuoran , Cao Heng , Chen Shanshan , Li Qing , Li Qiao , Wang Xiang , Wang Jiani , Li Yiqun , Xu Binghe , Zhang Pin
Published: May 2023

ObjectiveThe balance between treatment effectiveness and quality of life in elderly breast cancer patients is an important issue for clinicians to consider. The purpose of this study was to investigate the quality of life of elderly breast cancer patients and to explore the most critical factors affecting the quality of life.MethodsThis prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from June 2022 to November 2022. Frailty Screening Scale and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 were assessed among breast cancer patients aged ≥65 years. Network analysis was used to identify the core symptoms in the network.Results481 patients who met inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. Patients were divided into early (stage I-III) and advanced (stage IV) stage groups based on AJCC Version 8. Patients with advanced disease had a higher incidence of frailty than those with early disease (29.5% vs 11.4%, P<0.001). The quality of life of the former was generally lower than the latter group (P < 0.05 for all three functional areas, seven single symptoms, and economic aspects). Network analysis showed that in both early and advanced stage patients, "fatigue" was the most important symptom in the network and was closely related to patients' social function, role function and physical function. It is also most directly related to global health/quality of life (gQoL).ConclusionThere is a general decline in quality of life in older women with advanced breast cancer. Fatigue is the most prominent problem that affects the quality of life. Related interventions need to be considered when developing clinical care plans for these patients.
Förster-free effect fluorescence quenching of 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin in solution
Authors: Elistratova Marina , Zakharova Irina
Published: May 2023

Inner-filter absorption of the exciting light by the quencher or may be cause of large errors in the evaluation of quenching efficiencies in measurements of fluorescence quenching. We performed fluorescence measurements of 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin toluene solution in a wide concentration range. We have shown a Förster-free fluorescence quenching in a right-angle geometry experiment, caused by second order inner filter. We proposed to perform measurements in a front-surface geometry to investigate the nature of quenching not related to the inner filters. We have shown that concentration effects in tetraphenylporphyrin solutions in toluene are not accompanied by a decrease in the fluorescence intensity in a front-surface geometry at concentrations of 10− 3-10− 7 mol/l. It was possible to separate the phenomena of the internal filters from the processes occurring in a liquid medium. Our results are of great importance due to the widespread fundamental research of porphyrin-based dyes properties.
Multi-objective Scientific Workflows Scheduling in An Energy-aware Cloud Environment
Authors: Dahmani Nadia , Aziza Hatem , Romdhane Hajer Ben , Krichen Saoussen
Published: May 2023

The cloud has become an essential element for businesses globally, providing constant data availability while improving data center energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprints. However, data centers' energy consumption remains high, and energy reduction has become a crucial objective. In this paper, we aim to address this concern by proposing a multi-objective scientific workflow scheduling scheme on heterogeneous computing systems using a hybrid genetic algorithm approach. Our algorithm incorporates Hill Climbing to generate an initial population of chromosomes, which we further optimize using a genetic algorithm to assign each task to the most suitable virtual machine. The proposed fitness function is carefully designed to evaluate each chromosome's fitness to solve the scheduling problem. The algorithm's parameters and operators significantly affect the solution's performance, and our results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms other scheduling methods in terms of quality, reducing energy consumption, processing time, and cost. We believe that our proposed approach can play a crucial role in reducing the energy consumption and carbon footprint of cloud data centers and provide a green solution for scientific workflow scheduling.
Investigation on the Electrochemical Activities of Pristine and Cerium doped Manganese Dixide Nanoparticles for Supercapacitor Electrode Materials
Authors: Nandhini K. , devi M. Uma , Jose L. Arun , Kumar P. Mathan , Muthuraaman B. , Jothi M. Anantha
Published: May 2023

The synthesis of pristine Manganese dioxide and Cerium doped Manganese dioxide nanoparticles was reported in this article. X-Ray Diffraction Spectroscopy was examined to find the crystal structure and other structural parameters. The crystallite size of the obtained nanoparticles was found to be in the range of 18-22nm. The functional groups were identified by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Surface morphology and elemental analysis was done by Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. SEM pictures clearly illustrate that the synthesized samples hold porosity nature. Further, Cyclic Voltammetry, Galvanostatic Charge Discharge studies and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy were carried out to test the electrochemical activities of the resulting nanoparticles. This study suggests that the synthesized materials can be used as electrode material in supercapacitor applications.
Network construction of non-Abelian chiral spin liquids
Authors: Bueno Xavier Hernan , Chamon Claudio , Pereira Rodrigo G.
Published: May 2023

We use a network of chiral junctions to construct a family of topological chiral spin liquids in two spatial dimensions. The chiral spin liquid phase harbors SU(2)_kk anyons, which stem from the underlying SU(2)_kk WZW models that describe the constituent spin chains of the network. The network exhibits quantized spin and thermal Hall conductances. We illustrate our construction by inspecting the topological properties of the SU(2)_22 model. We find that this model has emergent Ising anyons, with spinons acting as vortex excitations that bind Majorana zero modes. We also show that the ground state of this network is threefold degenerate on the torus, asserting its non-Abelian character. Our results shed new light on the stability of non-Abelian topological phases in artificial quantum materials.
Journalism in the Age of Digital Autocracy: A Comparative ASEAN Perspective
Authors: Sinpeng Aim , Koh Youngjoon
Published: May 2023

Cyber authoritarianism is on the rise globally. Governments around the world are seeking innovative ways to monitor, surveil, censor and persecute government critics, activists and journalists. Southeast Asia is an especially hostile environment for journalism online: its governments have regularly investigated, arrested and convicted ordinary citizens for their online activities. The region also remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists in the world. This raises the question of if and how news organisations survive and thrive in this increasingly repressive environment. The study draws on original survey and interview datasets of 52 digital news organisations in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand conducted as part of the 2021 Inflection Point International project on digital media entrepreneurship in Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa. We argue that digital news organisations in Southeast Asia continue to report and investigate politically and socially sensitive issues despite the high risks for state repression. They are motivated by their belief in providing public good and supporting civic engagement. The findings in this study provide concrete empirical evidence that digital authoritarianism does not exert downward pressure on critical journalism.
Using the Technology of Blended Learning “Flipped Classroom” in the Formation of Leadership Qualities in Future IT Specialists
Authors: Zagoumennov Io. L.
Published: May 2023

The purpose of the work is to substantiate a practice-oriented interactive information and pedagogical technology of blended learning “flipped classroom” in the formation of leadership qualities in future IT specialists. The relevance of this problem is due to the process of transition of the national economy to an innovative development path and the demand in this regard for IT specialists who are ready to become leaders in their field and are able to captivate and lead their teams.

Materials and methods. To achieve this goal, methods of comparative analysis of existing domestic and foreign approaches to the use of blended learning technology “flipped classroom” were used, as well as a general scientific system approach that allows to study the process of interaction between subjects and objects of educational activity at a university and the possibility of increasing the efficiency of the educational process based on the use of digital tools and distance learning system (DLS) Moodle. The developed technology was tested in the Minsk branch of the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics in work with students of the direction of training 38.03.05 “Business Informatics”, the profile of the program is “Digital Transformation of Business”.

Results. In the framework of the study, a practice-oriented interactive information and pedagogical technology of blended learning “flipped classroom” was developed and successfully tested, aimed at developing leadership qualities in future IT specialists. The proposed use of blended learning technology successfully responds to the challenges that foreign and domestic researchers and practitioners face when implementing the flipped classroom technology, namely: students’ commitment to the traditional passive learning format, their lack of motivation necessary for independent work and cooperation with each other in the process of preparing for the classroom and, as a result, the unpreparedness of students for the classroom and the low level of their activity and cooperation in the classroom.

Conclusion. The proposed information and pedagogical technology makes it possible to develop a corporate team culture in student groups and forms their ability to lead their teams to success in educational, research and innovation activities.
RÓŻNICE W POSTRZEGANIU PRAWA I PRAWORZĄDNOŚCI NA POLSKIEJ WSI I W POLSKIM MIEŚCIE NA PRZYKŁADZIE POWIEŚCI KRYMINALNYCH KATARZYNY PUZYŃSKIEJ I REMIGIUSZA MROZA
Authors: Zoll Fryderyk
Published: May 2023

Artykuł ten wpisuje się w badania dotyczące ruchu „Prawo i literatura”, który dopiero od stosunkowo niedawna toruje sobie drogę w europejskiej, a zwłaszcza polskiej doktrynie. W pracy, z założenia interdyscyplinarnej, poruszone są wątki pozwalające prawnikom dostrzec wartość literatury, w tym popularnej, dla kształtowania się świadomości prawnej społeczeństwa, literaturoznawcom zaś nie tylko docenić popularną literaturę kryminalną, jako wartościowy przedmiot badań, lecz także zauważyć bliskie więzi, jakie ten gatunek może zbudować z doktryną prawa. W artykule analizie poddane zostały dwie niezwykle w Polsce popularne książki z gatunku kryminału: Kasacja Remigiusza Mroza oraz Motylek Katarzyny Puzyńskiej. Posłużyły one jako punkt dla szerszych rozważań dotyczących kształtowania się nastrojów politycznych i świadomości prawnej w Polsce. Jako oś porównania służy zestawienie ze sobą przestrzeni stanowiących miejsce akcji omawianych powieści, w tym wypadku dużego miasta oraz wsi. Najpierw ustalone zostaje powiązanie zawartych w tych fikcyjnych powieściach przestrzeni z rzeczywistością, co stanowi podstawę dalszego zestawienia opisów z powieści z mechanizmami świata rzeczywistego. Konkluzje przedstawionych badań wskazują, że literackie opisy, jak i specyficzne cechy literatury kryminalnej pozwalają na przedstawienie wartościowego komentarza społecznego.
Research Productivity and Impact of Saudi Academic Ophthalmologists: Trends in H-index, Sex, Subspecialty, and Faculty Appointments
Authors: Abuallut Ismail , Qassadi Norah Mohsen A. , Alosaimi Abdulrahman Mubarak , Aladhyani Abdulaziz Nasser A. , Mujairi Fatimah Ibrahim , Robart Andrew
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the scientific output of academic ophthalmologists in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in terms of the H-index, sex, subspecialty, and faculty appointments.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study used data extracted from publicly available sources. Saudi academic ophthalmologists and their academic rankings were identified from their respective university websites. The H-indices were collected from the Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate analyses were performed to explore the association of the H-index with sex, academic ranking, and subspecialty.

Results:

A total of 93 Saudi academic ophthalmologists were included in the study. Men comprised 77% of the academic positions and tended to have higher academic positions than women. The mean H-indices for men and women were 5.04±5.21 and 4.19±4.31, respectively (p=0.54). The mean H-indices of lecturers, assistant professors, associate professors, and professors were 1±0.1, 3.06±3, 7.7±68, and 10±10.25, respectively. The H-index had a positive correlation with a faculty appointment with an unadjusted beta coefficient for professors of 8.264 (95% CI, 5.967 to 10.560) (p<0.001). Ocular pathology and glaucoma were the highest in research productivity, with mean H-indices of 11±9.8 and 7.8±7.5, respectively. Compared with the most common specialties of the cornea and anterior segment, the H-index had a significantly positive correlation with glaucoma and ocular pathology subspecialties at 3.442 and 8.500 unadjusted beta coefficients, respectively (p=0.015 and p=0.004, respectively). The top three subspecialties with female underrepresentation were general ophthalmology, surgical retina, and glaucoma.

Conclusion:

This study provides insights into the research productivity of Saudi academic ophthalmologists. A high academic ranking was associated with high research productivity, as measured by the H-index. Gender variation was noted in the academic and subspecialty representations.
Digital Literacy Requires School Resilience
Authors: Dwiningrum Siti Irene Astuti , Rukiyati Rukiyati , Setyaningrum Annisa , Sholikhah Ebni , Sitompul Nopita
Published: May 2023

Digital literacy requires school resilience. The purpose of this study is to describe the profile of school resilience and strategies for strengthening school resilience in order to strengthen digital literacy. The method used in this study is a descriptive method that combines quantitative and qualitative (mix method). The research was conducted at SMN N 1 Mungkid involving 40 teachers and 100 students with a multistage random sampling model. The sampling technique in this study was determined using the Lameshow formula, with a total sample of 140 people. Data collection techniques were also carried out using a questionnaire technique through online media (google form) and documentation. The analytical technique used is descriptive with the Excel program using a categorization method based on percentage calculations. The results showed that the overall resilience of Mungkid Junior High School in facing the digital literacy era according to teachers and students was at the lower score, which is in the category of positive resilience building scale (teachers: 31%; Students: 40%). The strategy for strengthening school resilience in the digital literacy era are (1) adapting to situations and conditions, (2) school intervention in overcoming environmental risks and transitions, (3) identifying factors that can help schools overcome crises, (4) skills mapping to identify training needs, (5) identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the education system, and (6) documenting the learning gained by taking into account the availability of school human resources (HR), continuous professional development, communication, network support, adaptation and knowledge-based development.
ASSESSMENT AND OUTCOME ON PREPARATIONS, CHARACTERIZATION OF TOPICAL TARGETED NANOSPONGE BASED DRUG DELIVERY: CRITICAL REVIEW
Authors: Burad Shruti , Markad Karishma , Kulkarni Nilesh , Dhole Shashikant
Published: May 2023

The pharmaceutical Industry, and most of the drugs which come from synthetic chemistry possess poor water solubility and approximately 70% of drugs fall under such category. To improve solubility, drug absorption and bioavailability are a critical lookout for the formulation scientist. The current research activity for the development of dosage forms is concentrated on the development of particulate carrier systems such as microspheres and liposomes. Nanosponge is being prioritized to control the delivery of drug/APIs/phytoconstituents to particular the skin targetting. The drug delivery to skin can be prevented through the development of nanosponge. Topical nanosponge preparation can be delivered in the form of local anesthetics, anti-fungal, anti-acne, anti-wrinkle, etc. drugs. The present study highlights the developmental stages for the topical targeted nanosponge drug delivery. The review covers a different method of preparation, and evaluation of topical nanosponge drug delivery systems.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AND COVID-19 SEVERITY: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: GOWTHAVARAM CHENGALA ANANYAA
Published: May 2023

Objective: Globally, there is a rise in the frequency of type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetes is severe co-morbidity in COVID-19 patients. We conducted a review and evaluated the already documents reports for the relationship among diabetes and COVID-19.
Methods: Full text was retrieved using PubMed database and Google Scholar using the key phrases ‘COVID-19’, ‘SARS-CoV-2’, ‘diabetes’.
Results: The review outcome shows that the COVID-19 severity seems to be greater among patients with diabetes as comorbidity. So, strict glycemic control is imperative in patients infected with COVID-19.
Conclusions: Thus, world-wide diabetes burden and COVID-19 pandemic must be deliberated as diabetes increases the COVID-19 severity. Established on this, it is precise significant to follow specific treatment protocols and clinical management in COVID-19 patients affected with diabetes to prevent morbidity and mortality.
SLC27 family of fatty acid transporters in GtoPdb v.2023.1
Authors: Stahl Andreas
Published: May 2023

Fatty acid transporter proteins (FATPs) are a family (SLC27) of six transporters (FATP1-6). They have at least one, and possibly six [6, 13], transmembrane segments, and are predicted on the basis of structural similarities to form dimers. SLC27 members have several structural domains: integral membrane associated domain, peripheral membrane associated domain, FATP signature, intracellular AMP binding motif, dimerization domain, lipocalin motif, and an ER localization domain (identified in FATP4 only) [4, 10, 11]. These transporters are unusual in that they appear to express intrinsic very long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase (EC 6.2.1.- , EC 6.2.1.7) enzyme activity. Within the cell, these transporters may associate with plasma and peroxisomal membranes. FATP1-4 and -6 transport long- and very long-chain fatty acids, while FATP5 transports long-chain fatty acids as well as bile acids [9, 13, 1].
Voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv) in GtoPdb v.2023.1
Authors: Attali Bernard , Chandy K. George , Giese M. Hunter , Grissmer Stephan , Gutman George A. , Jan Lily Y. , Lazdunski Michel , Mckinnon David , Nerbonne Jeanne , Pardo Luis A. , Robertson Gail A. , Rudy Bernardo , Sanguinetti Michael C. , Stühmer Walter , Trimmer James S. , Wang Xiaoliang
Published: May 2023

The 6TM family of K channels comprises the voltage-gated KV subfamilies, the EAG subfamily (which includes hERG channels), the Ca2+-activated Slo subfamily (actually with 7TM, termed BK) and the Ca2+-activated SK subfamily. These channels possess a pore-forming α subunit that comprise tetramers of identical subunits (homomeric) or of different subunits (heteromeric). Heteromeric channels can only be formed within subfamilies (e.g. Kv1.1 with Kv1.2; Kv7.2 with Kv7.3). The pharmacology largely reflects the subunit composition of the functional channel.Kv7 channelsKv7.1-Kv7.5 (KCNQ1-5) K+ channels are voltage-gated K+ channels with major roles in neurons, muscle cells and epithelia where they underlie physiologically important K+ currents, such as the neuronal M-current and the cardiac IKs. Genetic deficiencies in all five KCNQ genes result in human excitability disorders, including epilepsy, autism spectrum disorders, cardiac arrhythmias and deafness. Thanks to the recent knowledge of the structure and function of human KCNQ-encoded proteins, these channels are increasingly used as drug targets for treating diseases [326, 2, 767].