bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unexpected hearing thresholds in a diving bird: biological relevance and methodological implications
Authors: Rößler Helen , May Anne , Dähne Michael
Published: September 2024

Many animals alternate between different media, such as air and water, thanks to specific adaptations. Among birds, penguins (Sphenisciformes) have the most extreme morphological, physiological, and behavioural adaptations to their amphibious lifestyle. Their auditory perception of sound, potentially matching different impedances in air and under water, is largely unknown particularly in terms of whether their underwater adaptations may have affected their in-air hearing capacity. In this context, we investigated the hearing ability of four captive Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) in air using psychophysical hearing tests. The 50% hit rate was found to be below 76 dB rms re 20 µPa between 0.250 kHz and 10 kHz, with most sensitive hearing at 2 kHz (mean threshold of 15.3 dB rms re 20 µPa, SD = 10.6 dB, n = 4). The four penguins showed large inter-individual variation in sensitivity at a given frequency but within a common audiogram shape. Despite the variability, penguins detected 0.250 kHz at comparably low sound levels (mean ± SD = 36.8 dB rms re 20µPa ± 2.4 dB, n = 3) after a rapid decline of sensitivity at 0.500 kHz (mean ± SD = 64.1 dB rms re 20 µPa ± 9 dB, n = 4). This finding was unexpected, and it is therefore difficult to interpret whether it is an artefact of the methods or a biologically relevant finding. An extensive discussion is presented and suggests that this finding may be biologically relevant but would need further investigation to reveal the underlying mechanisms.
I-Paver QR-based OPC UA architecture for IoT retail security
Authors: R Kumar Raja D , G Hemanth Kumar , K Ayyappaswamy , C Ravindramurthy , Abas Zuraidaa Abal , B Jagadesh
Published: September 2024

QR code access is required for payment transactions, these details should be protected with enhanced security. Implementation of IoT devices in retail needs to have good interoperability, but it was not achieved during the transfer of data among functional units due to its large network and function. Hence, a novel technique namely, I-Paver QR-based OPC UA Architecture for IoT Retail Security is proposed to achieve effective interoperability in data transmission with knowledge of IoT devices. To obtain better interoperability a novel Psyops Products (PS) is integrated with the Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) network architecture, which scans the unique characteristics of IoT devices connected in a network and prevents the generation of spatial data. In the retail counter, QR code access is the required function and there are several security challenges because of using a lot of commits such as command, acceptance, or validation services in the existing systems. To protect the data with enhanced security with minimum commits a novel method named I-PaverQR is used. To prevent the dictionary attack to avoid ineffective automation a novel Sniper- sparse code- Static prevention framework is used. This framework checks network traffic related to any attacks and vulnerability of leaked data due to dictionary attacks. Overall, the proposed method achieves more effective interoperability in data transmission than the existing systems by acquiring 98% sensitivity and Specificity, 98.62% accuracy, 99.27% precision, 99.32% Recall, and 99.48% F1-Score with knowledge of IoT devices, minimum commits to secure QR codes and protect the whole automation software from dictionary attacks.
Melittin enhances the cytotoxic effect of the targeted anticancer monoclonal antibodies on cancer cell lines
Authors: Kamal Shaimaa F. , Zedan Hamdallah , Ali Mohammed E. , Abdel-Hakeem Mohamed S.
Published: September 2024

Monoclonal antibodies, such as bevacizumab and cetuximab, have revolutionized targeted immunotherapy and have shown promising results in treating lung and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, a range of side effects are observed, urging the development of approaches to minimize mAb’s side effects while preserving their efficacy. Melittin, the main constituent of BV, has been recently proposed as a promising natural product for combination with immunotherapy to reduce the effective dose used. Here, we studied the impact of combining melittin with bevacizumab and cetuximab on lowering the therapeutic doses of these mAbs. We measured the effects of bevacizumab and cetuximab alone or in combination with melittin on lung and hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (A549 and HepG2, respectively). Our results revealed enhanced cytotoxicity of bevacizumab and cetuximab in both the A549 and HepG2 cancer cell lines when either agent was combined with melittin, as calculated by the combination index from the MTT assay. These results were confirmed via histopathological examination and apoptosis analysis via flow cytometry. Mechanistically, RT‒qPCR revealed that this synergism was associated with significant changes in the gene expression of CASPASE3, Bcl2, VEGFR2, and EGFR. Our findings suggest combining melittin with bevacizumab and cetuximab enhances their effectiveness against carcinoma cell lines.
Spatially variable response of Antarctica's ice sheets to orbital forcing during the Pliocene
Authors: Patterson Molly , Rosenberg Christiana , Seki Osamu , Yamamoto Masanobu , Romero Oscar , Nelissen Mei , Sangiorgi Francesca , Golledge Nick , Grant Georgia , Arnuk William , Keisling Benjamin , Naish Tim , Levy Richard , Meyers Stephen , Sullivan Nicholas , Ash Jeanine , Kulhanek Denise , Romans Brian , Varela Natalia , Jones Harold , Beny François , Browne Imogene , Cortese Giuseppe , de Sousa Isabela Cordeiro , Dodd Justin , Esper Oliver , Gales Jenny , Harwood David , Ishino Saki , Kim Sookwan , Kim Sunghan , Laberg Jan Sverre , Leckie R. , Müller J. , Shevenell Amelia , Singh Shiv , Sugisaki Saiko , de Flierdt Tina van , Peer Tim van , Xiao Wenshen , De Santis Laura , McKay Robert
Published: September 2024

Variations in Earth’s orbit pace global ice-volume/sea-level changes, but the variability in the response for different sectors of the Antarctic Ice Sheet (AIS) to orbitally-forced climate change remains unclear. We present geological records of iceberg-rafted debris (IBRD) and other proxies from locations adjacent to the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) and East Antarctic Ice Sheet (EAIS) spanning ~3.3-2.3 Ma. Iceberg calving events from the WAIS recorded in Ross Sea sediment cores show a linear response to orbital forcing at timescales corresponding to obliquity (40 kyr) and precession (23-19 kyr) modulated by eccentricity (100 kyr). This contrasts with records adjacent to the EAIS, which lack obliquity pacing. Geological data and ice sheet model sensitivity tests show the WAIS is highly dynamic and responsive to oceanic melt driven by changes in Southern Ocean circulation, together with atmospheric forcing through variations in local insolation. Conversely, the EAIS appears less responsive to oceanic forcing, despite being the dominant source of meltwater to the global ocean during the mid-Pliocene. Our results imply a significant role for atmospheric warming on mid-Pliocene sea-level.
A multi-species corridor between the Andean Amazonian and Amazon floodplain landscapes: prioritizing ecological connectivity areas for jaguar and threatened ungulates in the north-eastern of South America
Authors: Mosquera-Guerra Federico , Barreto Sebastian , Palencia-Rivera Juan D. , Velásquez-Valencia Alexander , Mantilla-Meluk Hugo , Bruges-Morales Gustavo A. , Jiménez-Ortega Alex M. , Trujillo Fernando , Armenteras-Pascual Dolors
Published: September 2024

The spatial heterogeneity and variability of environmental conditions in the Colombian Amazon, located in north-eastern South America, are key factors explaining the high diversity of mammal species, representing 49% of those reported for Colombia. In recent decades, the Amazon forest system has experienced accelerated transformation due to deforestation, forest fires, extensive cattle ranching, and road infrastructure development, leading to degraded natural habitats and reduced connectivity among populations of large mammals in areas ecologically important for these species. However, there has been a lack of functional connectivity analysis in the Andean Amazonian and Amazon floodplain landscapes using a multi-species approach that considers predator-prey relationships among representative groups such as large felids and wild ungulate species. To address this gap, we utilized occurrence data for focal species including the jaguar, lowland tapir, white-lipped, and collared peccaries. We developed potential distribution models, conducted binarization processes, analyzed spatial morphological patterns, and constructed a resistance matrix. This information was used to model dispersal corridors and identify nodes connecting core habitats of the focal species using the randomized shortest path algorithm, along with quantifying weighted global connectivity metrics. Our findings indicate the presence of an integrated corridor comprising potential low-cost dispersal routes for the focal species, primarily associated with the hydric network of the upper and middle Caquetá River basin. These corridors connect key protected areas such as Alto Fragua Indi Wasi, La Paya, and Serranía del Chiribiquete National Natural Parks, as well as the Cerro Páramo de Miraflores Rigoberto Urriago, Miraflores, and Picachos Regional Parks.
Concept of a Demand-Response Model for Smart Community Construction: A Case Study in Ningbo, China
Authors: Gao Chong , Zhao Xiaolong
Published: September 2024

Under the background of urban digital transformation in China, the construction of smart communities can add significant social values. This paper studies the needs of residents, managers, and workers of the community, and proposes a user-oriented model to increase requirement suitability and management efficiency. A case study has been carried out in Ningbo, China, to understand the user needs and the strategies adopted in the community’s digital construction process. This paper reports the study results and discusses the opportunity of using a Demand-Response Model as a universal mode for smart community construction.
Optimization of a ternary composite of CuFe2O4/CuO@rGO and its electrochemical evaluation as an electrode material for supercapacitor application
Authors: Gayathri R , Sharmila R , Vadivel S , M.Khaled jamal
Published: September 2024

In this study, CuFe₂O₄/CuO@rGO nanocomposites were prepared using the hydrothermal technique. In order to investigate these nanocomposite electrochemical properties, researchers constructed two-electrode and three-electrode cell configurations (asymmetric cells). The nanocomposite CuFe₂O₄/CuO@rGO showed an impressive specific capacitance that exceeded 2110 Fg−1 at a current density of 1 Ag−1. This asymmetric cell showed an impressive 40.44 Wh kg−1 energy density at a power density of 780 Wkg−1, with activated carbon (AC) acting as the anode and CuFe₂O₄/CuO@ rGO as the cathode. It also had a prolonged cycle life, with 93% retention after 10,000 cycles. By illuminating light-emitting diode (LED) lights, the asymmetric cell demonstrated the practical use of this nanocomposite as an active electrode material. By keeping its electrochemical activity steady over a variety of twisting angles, this gadget also proved its structural resilience. As far as we are aware, the synthesized nanocomposite outperformed both commercial supercapacitors and the published CuFe₂O₄/CuO@rGO-based composites when used as an active electrode material. The impressive electrochemical capability of the produced nanocomposite makes it an attractive electrode material for use in high-performance supercapacitors.
Green synthesis and characterization of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Alpinia officinarum rhizome extract for antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-biofilm applications
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Nishkala , Gomathi Palanisamy , Wabaidur Saikh Mohammad , Dhanusuraman Ragupathy
Published: September 2024

In the present study, Alphinia officinarum rhizome extract and zinc nitrate hexahydrate were utilized to synthesize eco-friendly and cost-effective zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs). Nanoparticles of Zinc oxide have attained unique research interest among various metal oxides. Morphological characterizations of the ZnO NPs were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to characterize the ZnO NPs. FTIR spectrum revealed the presence of functional groups in ZnO NPs. XRD, scanning electron microscope, analyses confirmed the crystal structure and average size of ZnO NPs. The antimicrobial activities of ZnO NPs were tested on microorganisms, that is, P. aeruginosa ATCC 25619, MRSA ATCC 43300, and C. albicans ATCC 10231. Moreover, the antibiofilm activity of ZnO NPs was performed against P. aeruginosa ATCC 25619, MRSA ATCC 43300, and C. albicans ATCC 10231. ZnO NPs have shown effective antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities against tested microorganisms. The results elucidated that eco-friendly and cost-effectively produced ZnO NPs could be used as coating materials and in a wide range of industrial applications, such as pharmaceutical industries and cosmetics.
Rapid detection of N-lactoyl-phenylalanine for exercise evaluation using dual DNA biosensors based on solution-gated graphene field-effect transistor
Authors: Li Jiacheng , Zhang Ming , Zhang Cailing , Zhang Yin , Chen Wenbin , Liu Jian , Qu Hao , Wang Lu
Published: September 2024

As obesity rates continue to rise, there is an increasing focus on reducing obesity through exercise. People are becoming more aware of the importance of weight loss through physical activity. However, the effectiveness of exercise can vary significantly among individuals, making it challenging to evaluate its impact. Therefore, establishing a reliable method for assessing exercise effectiveness is crucial for enhancing exercise quality and reducing obesity risk. In this study, we developed a N-lactoyl-phenylalanine (N-Lac-Phe) biosensor by detecting L-lactic acid (L-Lac) and L-phenylalanine (L-Phe) based on Solution-Gated Graphene Field-Effect Transistors (SGGT). Our findings showed that the L-Lac and L-Phe biosensors exhibited excellent linearity within concentration ranges of 300 pM to 300 nM for L-Lac and 3 nM to 1000 nM for L-Phe, with R² values of 0.99 and 0.98. The detection accuracies for these two types of SGGT biosensors were 91.63 ± 6.97% and 99.39 ± 8.53%, respectively. Using the established N-Lac-Phe, L-Lac, and L-Phe relationship model (NLL model), we calculated the concentration of N-Lac-Phe in the RAW264.7 culture medium based on the concentrations of L-Lac and L-Phe. The biosensors demonstrated excellent accuracy, and selectivity, indicating their potential for rapidly evaluating the effectiveness of exercise.
The place of subjective emptiness in the structure of personality
Authors: Hopwood Christopher J. , Gjorgjieva Julija
Published: September 2024

Background
Subjective emptiness is a transdiagnostic clinical dimension related to suicide, distress, and other maladaptive outcomes. Although it is typically conceptualized as a symptom of borderline personality disorder, it has a different pattern of correlates than other symptoms of that phenotype and is present in individuals with other diagnoses. The goals of this study were to replicate and extend previous findings regarding the place of emptiness as a standalone construct within a relatively comprehensive array of personality features.
Method
A sample of 992 anonymous participants (M = 45.37 years, SD = 16.53) who were census-matched to the US population completed an online survey including measures of emptiness, normal-range and maladaptive traits, domains and aspects, and traits, values, and problems.
Results
Overall, the pattern of correlations suggests that people who report feelings of emptiness tend to have negative emotions, be socially withdrawn, and are low in energy.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the relevance of subjective emptiness beyond the borderline category, replicate previous findings regarding the personality and psychopathology correlates of subjective emptiness, and portray a particular profile of personality that represents a risk factor for the experience of subjective emptiness.
Measuring the Permeability of Seaweed as a New Sustainable Material in the Presence of Temperature
Authors: GÜNERİ Esra
Published: September 2024

The existing engineering properties of soils cannot always provide sufficient strength and optimization, resulting in the need for soil improvement. There are many methods and additive materials currently used in soil improvement. However, if the method to be used includes an alternative additive material, the material's sustainability, environmental friendliness and low cost play a major role considering the increasing world population and energy need. At the same time, the increasing population's demand for energy and the resulting increase in the number of energy structures increase the interaction of the soils with temperature. When all these are evaluated together, seaweed-added mixtures, terminologically known as "Zostera marina", were created within the scope of this study and their hydraulic conductivity behavior was examined under room and high temperatures. Dried seaweed is a sustainable, low-cost marine plant that has been used for thermal insulation for years in countries with a cold climate, such as Denmark. In this study, seaweed additive was added to zeolite-bentonite mixtures and hydraulic conductivity tests of the mixtures were determined under room and high temperatures (40°C). Thus, the effects of additive and temperature effects on permeability were examined separately. The test results showed that the seaweed additive had a reducing effect on hydraulic conductivity behavior at room temperature, while permeability increased under high temperature, parallel to the literature.
A Novel Optimized Vibration-based Energy Harvester for Leak Detection in Wall-mounted Water Pipelines
Authors: Mysorewala Muhammad Faizan , Virk Mati-Ur-Rasool Ashraf , Syed Mujahid Naqeebuddin , Saif Abdul-Wahid , Cheded Lahouari , Shafiq Saifullah , Sattar Karim
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we propose a novel circuit with piezoelectric energy harvesters that we developed to power accelerometer sensor nodes placed at optimal locations to maximize energy harvesting, and timely and accurately detect leaks in the pipeline. To reduce energy consumption in sensing and computations, strategies such as duty cycling and a reduction in the number of samples have been incorporated. Due to the conflicting relationship between leak detection accuracy, delay in detecting the leak, and energy consumed by the sensor node, a novel optimization problem is formulated to address this trade-off by linking some crucial design parameters, namely the number of samples per cycle, node sleep time, delay in leak detection, required leak detection accuracy, and remaining sensor node energy. The resulting optimization problem is solved using graphical method. Experimental data is gathered for the harvested energy from a home-grown lab testbed consisting of a Wall-Mounted Pipeline (WMP) system, and various techniques are suggested to increase energy generation. Subsequently, the experimental data is utilized to solve the optimization problem by providing optimal node parameters for a selected remaining node energy after a certain specified number of sampling cycles, as well as a desired leak detection delay and accuracy. The results obtained corroborate our selection of the values of the various parameters used, and the theory underlying our novel optimization problem. The results obtained also provide ample encouragement to pursue different alternative solutions discussed in this paper, as part of our future work in this important practical area.
Optimizing Landslide Susceptibility Mapping in Oued Guebli Watershed: A Comparative Study of Deep Learning, Support Vector Machines, Logistic Regression with Spatial Validation and AUC- ROC Analysis
Authors: Mebirouk Nadjib , Amrane Moussa , Messast Salah
Published: September 2024

methods
Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Deep Learning (DL) to identify areas most susceptible to landslides. The selection of causative factors was based on a detailed statistical study examining the relationship between landslide occurrence and specific characteristics such as slope, lithology, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), land use, proximity to roads, watercourses, and geological faults. These factors were essential in generating accurate and reliable susceptibility maps using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology. Metrics of performance, including accuracy, precision, F1-score, specificity, sensitivity, and RMSE, were used to evaluate the performance of the models, which were verified, validated, and compared using the area under curve (AUC) value of the Receiver Operating Characteristics Curves (ROC) method and the spatial validation technique. This spatial validation evaluated the percentage of active landslide areas in the high and very high susceptibility classes. The DL and SVM models demonstrated a very high concentration of landslide points in these classes, with 99% and 98% respectively, whereas the LR model showed 89%. In terms of AUC validation, the DL model achieved the highest AUC value of 0.9894, followed by the SVM model followed with an AUC of 0.9873, while LR demonstrated a lower AUC of 0.9093. These precise and reliable results help to identify high-risk areas more effectively, thereby safeguarding residents and preserving infrastructure in the Oued Guebli watershed. The choice of the DL model as the most effective method underscores its capability to deliver accurate susceptibility maps, which are important for informed decision-making and risk management.
Computational Identification and Validation of Novel Inhibitors Targeting LLM Genes in Staphylococcus aureus for Antimicrobial Drug Development
Authors: Fakuade Ayodeji Adebayo , oyeniyi Peace Victoria , Adetunji Iyanuoluwa Hannah , Ojo Oluwadamilola Victoria , Clement John Dilma , Ishaya Bulus Joseph
Published: September 2024

Staphylococcus aureus is a formidable pathogen responsible for a wide variety of illnesses, including some that are resistant to several antibiotics. Targeting the key llm genes in S. aureus, which are crucial for bacterial lysis and methicillin resistance, is an attractive method for accelerating the development of novel antimicrobial drugs. The aim of this research is to computationally find and validate novel inhibitors targeting these llm genes to combat S. aureus infections. An in-silico investigation was done using a complete literature review on NCBI and genomic analysis to uncover the llm genes in the S. aureus genome. Using computational techniques, including molecular docking using AutoDock Tools and PERL, twenty-two ligands, including the standard drug (Tunicamycin), were docked against the active site of the llm gene-encoded protein receptor. Pharmacokinetic investigations and molecular docking studies showed six potential inhibitors: ZINC06605913, ZINC06905586, ZINC35022243, ZINC40483738, ZINC90417652, and ZINC85428484. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) using GROMACS were performed on the molecules (ZINC90417652) with the highest binding affinity to examine the dynamics and stability of the protein-ligand complex. The predicted inhibitor demonstrated good pharmacological and structural properties, underscoring it’s potential as an effective antibacterial medications compare to tunicamycin. This study underscores the effectiveness of computational techniques in the identification and validation of novel inhibitors, providing a firm platform for the development of new antimicrobial medications targeting the llm genes in Staphylococcus aureus.
Targeting de novo purine biosynthesis for tuberculosis treatment
Authors: Lamprecht Dirk , Wall Richard , Davies Cadi , Pearson William , Davis Ellie , Willcocks Sam , Dallow John , Leemans Annelies , Wetzel Jennefer , Daems Stijn , Sancheti Pavankumar , Monshouwer Mario , Aguilar-Pérez Clara , Koul Anil , Sprangers Joke , Fiogbe Patricia , Saylock Samantha , Ricketts M. , Huff Adam , Grell Tsehai , Draghia-Akli Ruxandra , Lin Shiming , Gerber Michelle , Dhar Neeraj , Vos Ann , Roubert Christine , Sans Stéphanie , Desorme Amandine , Chappat Nicolas , Ray Aurélie , Clancy Kathleen , Everaerts Melissa , Esqui Jorge , Larrouy-Maumus Gerald , Fletcher Helen , Pym Alexander , Stoops Bart , Jackson Paul
Published: September 2024

Tuberculosis remains the leading cause of death from an infectious disease, responsible for 1.3 million deaths annually. Here, we report the discovery of a first-in-class small molecule inhibitor targeting PurF, the first enzyme in the mycobacterial de novo purine biosynthesis pathway. Our lead candidate, JNJ-6640, exhibited nanomolar bactericidal activity in vitro. Using an array of comprehensive genetic and biochemical approaches, we confirmed JNJ-6640 was highly selective for mycobacterial PurF compared to the human homologue. Single-cell level timelapse microscopy demonstrated PurF inhibition leads to a downstream impact on DNA replication. Proof-of-concept studies using a long-acting injectable formulation demonstrated the compound's in vivo efficacy. Finally, we show inclusion of JNJ-6640 could play a crucial role in improving the current treatment regimen for drug-resistant TB. Taken together, we demonstrate that JNJ-6640 is a promising chemical lead and show that targeting purine metabolism is a novel strategy for TB drug development.
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome and Severe COVID-19 in children have distinct metabolism pathways affected by pathogenic genetic variants.
Authors: Passetti Fabio , Urbanski Alysson , Freitas Flávia , Gomes Tiago , Schemberger Michelle , Reis Bárbara Carvalho Santos dos , de Carvalho Flavia Amêndola Anísio , Faccion Roberta Soares , Machado Lucas de Almeida , Santos Deborah Antunes dos , Cunha Daniela , Salú Margarida dos Santos , Moore Daniella Campelo Batalha Cox , Presibella Mayra Marinho , Noguchi Juliana , Borges Henrique , Tomiura Lais Kimie , de Castro Luiza Silva , Santos Letícia Graziela Costa , Silva Esdras Matheus Gomes da , Parreira Vinícius Da Silva Coutinho , Morello Luis , Marchini Fabricio , Tizzot Maria Regina , Ribas Mauricio Marcondes , Pascolat Gilberto , Ribas Carmen Australia , Vicente Fábio Fernandes da Rocha , Paschoal Alexandre , Cat Rubens , Carvalho Benilton , de Oliveira Jaqueline , Oliveira Marcus F. , Coutinho Luiz Lehmann , Nasr Acacia , Riediger Irina , Nardin Jeanine Marie , Mikami Liya Regina , Guimarães Ana Carolina Ramos , de Araujo-Souza Patricia Savio , Prata-Barbosa Arnaldo , Vasconcelos Zilton , Faoro Helisson , Santos Hellen Geremias dos
Published: September 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has triggered a global health crisis, with over 700 million confirmed cases and at least 7 million deaths reported by early 2024. Children are less vulnerable to severe SARS-CoV-2 infection than adults and typically experience milder respiratory symptoms. However, a rare but significant complication, known as multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), can develop weeks after infection, characterized by a spectrum of inflammatory symptoms. This study employed whole-exome sequencing and over-representation analysis to identify distinct pathogenic genetic variants related to MIS-C or severe COVID-19 in a group of children with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), all of whom were unvaccinated for COVID-19. We observed an enrichment of pathogenic variants in genes related to carbohydrate metabolism, particularly glycogen breakdown, in severe COVID-19 pediatric patients, and in genes related to cholesterol and lipoprotein metabolism in MIS-C patients. These findings offer insights into the genetic underpinnings of MIS-C and severe COVID-19, suggesting potential genes and biological pathways for further research.
Orbital forcing of African hydroclimate over the past 800,000 years
Authors: Armstrong Edward , Tallavaara Miikka , Salonen Sakari , Camuera Jon , Kinyanjui Rahab , Valdes Paul
Published: September 2024

The African hydroclimate played a key role in shaping the evolutionary environment of numerous species including hominins. African precipitation is sensitive to insolation and is consequently strongly linked to Earth’s orbital variations. Here, we utilise singular spectrum analysis to extract key orbital frequencies from a range of proxy records and a climate model dataset generated using the HadCM3B-V1.0 model, to reveal key patterns of pan-African orbital forcing of hydroclimate variability over the past 800,000 years. The model and proxies show good agreement. Eccentricity modulated precession forcing is the dominant mode of variability in both proxies and model, driving enhanced summer monsoon precipitation across a North-South interhemispheric antiphase. The impact of eccentricity is complex and associated with precession modulation, direct insolation change, and indirect feedbacks linked to greenhouse gases and ice-sheet extent. Obliquity primarily influences the amplitude of precession forcing. Our results suggest that the combination of different orbital forcings created complex spatio-temporal precipitation patterns, and consequent ecosystem dynamics in Africa.
Comparison of the interpretation of ambiguity and aesthetic impression toward haiku poetry between experts and novices
Authors: Hitsuwari Jimpei , Nomura Michio
Published: September 2024

Haiku, the world’s shortest form of poetry, has usually been deemed ambiguous owing to its length. However, studies have shown that ambiguity lowers the aesthetic evaluation of a haiku, which contradicts the belief that ambiguity is a characteristic of both the haiku and art in general. One reason for this contradiction may be the interaction with the readers’ attributes, in particular, their expertise—a theme considered important in the field of aesthetic psychology. Therefore, in this study, we had 20 experts and 20 novices evaluate 20 low- and 20 high-ambiguity haikus, which another group of novices had evaluated and distinguished in the pilot study. The results revealed that the novices exhibited a lower liking for high-ambiguity haikus, whereas the experts demonstrated the same degree of liking for both high- and low-ambiguity haikus. Additionally, the experts had lower perceived ambiguity for high-ambiguity haikus than novices. This suggests a higher degree of liking for ambiguous haikus than novices because they were able to process them more fluently based on their knowledge and experiences. Furthermore, interest mediated the relationship between perceived ambiguity and liking among experts only. In sum, the experts appreciated ambiguous haikus in different ways compared to the novices. The results have implications for the psychology and cognitive science of aesthetics and art, where ambiguity is important, as well as for expertise in school education, where haiku is part of the curriculum.
Ist das Kunst… oder kann das die KI?
Authors: Knaus Thomas , Merz Olga , Junge Thorsten
Published: September 2024

Kreativität ist – neben kritischem Denken, Kommunikation und Kollaboration – eine der vier sogenannten 21st Century Skills sowie eine der zentralen Leitkategorien der Medienpädagogik: Das Motto „kreativ und kritisch mit Medien“ beflügelt sowohl Ansätze der medienpädagogischen Praxis als auch ihre konzeptionellen und theoretischen Arbeiten. Kreativität wird dabei als die Fähigkeit verstanden, neue Ideen zu entwickeln und gestalterisch oder schöpferisch tätig zu sein. In genau diese menschlichen Prozesse des schöpferischen Tätigseins mischen sich heute zunehmend nicht-menschliche – künstliche – Akteur*innen.
Im aktuellen Diskurs steht Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) für ein multidisziplinäres Forschungsfeld, das im Wesentlichen durch die Informatik geprägt wurde und in dem wissensbasierte Systeme, das maschinelle Lernen und heute insbesondere das so genannte Deep Learning auf Basis künstlicher neuronaler Netze (KNN) im Fokus stehen. Dieses keineswegs neue Forschungsfeld hat in den letzten Jahrzehnten Anwendungen hervorgebracht, die bereits umfänglich Einzug in unseren Alltag gehalten haben. Hierzu gehören Expert*innensysteme, Sprachassistenten, Dialogsysteme wie Chatbots und Text-, Bild-, Musik- und Videogeneratoren sowie sensor- und kameragesteuerte (Industrie-) Roboter und selbstfahrende Fahrzeuge. Auf generativer KI basierende Anwendungen und Tools schreiben heute Balladen und Essays, erzeugen Bilder und Videos aus sprachlichen Beschreibungen, musizieren im Stile bekannter Künstler*innen und erstellen Filme. Sie integrieren sich heute also zunehmend in solche Prozesse, die als Ausdrucksformen typisch menschlicher Kreativität gelten. Was bedeuten diese Phänomene für das Verhältnis zwischen Menschen und Technik sowie für unsere Vorstellung von Kreativität?
Chatten mit einer Femme fatale
Authors: Fahden Melanie , Nethe Melanie
Published: September 2024

Helena vor dem brennenden Troja, Medea mit einer Flasche voll Gift – wie lauten die Geschichten zu diesen sogenannten Femmes fatales? Welche Geschichten würden sie selbst erzählen? Und welche Fragen haben Jugendliche an diese Figuren? In einem partizipativen Projekt arbeiteten Schüler*innen einer 10. Klasse an einem KI-basierten Chatbot zur Ausstellung FEMME FATALE. Blick – Macht – Gender an der Hamburger Kunsthalle mit. Sie trafen eine Werkauswahl, entwickelten Kriterien für einen interessanten Chatflow und gestalteten Inhalte für das textbasierte Dialogsystem. Die künstliche Intelligenz unterstützte lebendige Gespräche mit sechs Charakteren, welche das Thema rund um den Mythos Femme fatale interaktiv zugänglich machen.
Künstliche Intelligenz und Pädagogik – ein Plädoyer für eine Perspektiverweiterung
Authors: Knaus Thomas
Published: September 2024

In diesem Text begründe ich, warum die Pädagogik ihre theoretischen Bezüge und Praxisfelder um KI erweitern sollte. Die historisch-genealogische Sicht auf technische Medieninnovationen zeigt, dass Medien stets neue Möglichkeitsräume für Individuen und Gesellschaften angeboten haben. Diese neuen Möglichkeiten waren aber nie voraussetzungsfrei: So ermöglichte der Buchdruck zwar neue Bildungszugänge, erforderte zugleich aber alphabetisierte Leser*innen. In vergleichbarer Weise geben Social-Media-Plattformen potentiell allen Menschen eine öffentlich wahrnehmbare Stimme und vernetzen sie global, aber sie erfordern kritische Rezipient*innen.Um Menschen im Umgang mit ‚dieser revolutionären KI-Technologie‘ zu befähigen, werden aktuell beinah reflexartig ‚KI-Kompetenzen‘ gefordert. Ich frage mich, wie Individuen mit einer KI kritisch und selbstbestimmt umgehen können, wenn wir das Gegenüber weder einschätzen noch beeinflussen können? Ich frage mich außerdem, ob mit (generativer) KI tatsächlich eine ‚Revolution‘ einhergeht und ob der Technologiebegriff hier passt.Die kritische Diskussion einiger Missverständnisse erscheint geboten. Dieser Text beleuchtet hierfür zunächst die grundlegenden Funktionsweisen KI-basierter Medien, skizziert deren gesellschaftliche Bedeutung und entfaltet sieben Argumente, warum sich die Pädagogik in Theorie und Praxis mit KI befassen sollte.
Comparative Study of Ginger Cultivars under Shading Conditions in a High Tunnel
Authors: Lashley William Edward , Yang Guochen , Robinson Julia
Published: September 2024

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) is a valuable sciophyte crop used as a spice or fresh herb in culinary dishes and for treating medical issues such as osteoarthritis, neurological diseases, vomiting, and asthma. The demand for ginger in the United States is remarkably high; it is produced commercially and exclusively in Hawaii but can only meet ∼20% of US demand. Light for ginger growth may be more important than is often assumed, but the roles of light in ginger growth and rhizome yield are not fully understood. We hypothesized that artificial shade would produce the highest yielding ginger compared with no shade. This study evaluated the impact of different shading suited for ginger growth and rhizome yield of different cultivars grown in a high tunnel. There were three levels (0%, 22%, and 40%) of shade using RCBD design. We analyzed the overall yield (weight) of ginger and the specific yield (weight) of different rhizome parts (biological root, edible root, and seed ginger) per plant in addition to plant growth data. Data were analyzed for 2018 and 2019, and shade conditions influenced ginger growth and yield. There was no significant difference between shade conditions or cultivars, but general trends found that data differed between the two growing seasons. In 2018, Chinese White and Hawaii Yellow produced a better (higher) yield under 0% and 40% shade. However, in 2019, Chinese White and Hawaii Yellow produced the highest total yield under 22% shade, but Bubba Blue produced the highest overall yield at 0% shade.
Coulomb branch surgery: Holonomy saddles, S-folds and discrete symmetry gaugings
Authors: Furrer Elias , Magureanu Horia
Published: September 2024

Symmetries of Seiberg–Witten (SW) geometries capture intricate physical aspects of the underlying 4d \mathcal{N} = 2𝒩=2 field theories. For rank-one theories, these geometries are rational elliptic surfaces whose automorphism group is a semi-direct product between the Coulomb branch (CB) symmetries and the Mordell-Weil group. We study quotients of the SW geometry by subgroups of its automorphism group, which most naturally become gaugings of discrete 0- and 1-form symmetries. Yet, new interpretations of these surgeries become evident when considering 5d \mathcal{N}=1𝒩=1 superconformal field theories. There, certain CB symmetries are related to symmetries of the corresponding (p,q)(p,q)-brane web and, as a result, CB surgeries can give rise to (fractional) S-folds. Another novel interpretation of these quotients is the folding across dimensions: circle compactifications of the 5d E_{2N_f + 1}E2Nf+1 Seiberg theories lead in the infrared to two copies of locally indistinguishable 4d SU(2) SQCD theories with N_fNf fundamental flavours. This extends earlier results on holonomy saddles, while also reproducing detailed computations of 5d BPS spectra and predicting new 5d and 6d BPS quivers. Finally, we argue that the semi-direct product structure of the automorphism group of the SW geometry includes mixed ’t Hooft anomalies between the 0- and 1-form symmetries, and we also present some new results on non-cyclic CB symmetries.
ACTUALISATION DE LA REPARTITION DE LA COCHENILLE FARINEUSE DU MANGUIER ET SES ENNEMIS NATURELS DANS LES REGIONS DU PORO ET TCHOLOGO (NORD, COTE DIVOIRE)
Authors:   Universite Jean Lorougnon Guede (UJLoG), BP 150 Daloa, Cote dIvoire., Kouame Joseph Francis Konan , Yves Magloire Minhibo ,   Centre National de Recherche Agronomique (CNRA), Direction Regionale de Korhogo, Station de Recherche de Lataha, BP 856 Korhogo, Cote dIvoire., Ossey Robert Ndepo ,   Universite Jean Lorougnon Guede (UJLoG), BP 150 Daloa, Cote dIvoire., NKlo Hala ,   Centre National de Recherche Agronomique (CNRA), station Marc Delormede Port-Bouet, 07Bp13 Abidjan 07, Cote dIvoire., Adama Coulibaly ,   Centre National de Recherche Agronomique (CNRA), Direction Regionale de Korhogo, Station de Recherche de Lataha, BP 856 Korhogo, Cote dIvoire., Karna Zoumana Yeo ,   Universite Peleforo Gon Coulibaly de Korhogo, Bp 1328 Korhogo, Cote dIvoire.
Published: September 2024

Rastrococcusinvadens, commonly known as the mango mealybug, is a sap-sucking, biting insect. The unexpected introduction of this pest has prompted extensive research in several countries to find control solutions. The aim of this study was to identify areas of infestation by mango mealybugs and draw up a distribution map of the different species identified. A survey was carried out in the study areas, to observe the presence or absence of mealybugs. Sixty (60) orchards were visited in the Poro and Tchologo regions. Ten (10) mango trees per orchard were randomly selected and twenty (20) infested leaves were collected per tree to identify the different species present. Mango leaves containing mealybug mummies were incubated to identify emerging parasitoids. The results showed that the prevalence of infested orchards varied from 50 to 100% in all localities. 08.01% of the orchards visited had a high attack rate, as did the infestation level of the mango trees sampled. Three species of scale insect were encountered: Rastrococcusinvadens, Iceryaaegyptiaca and Pseudococcusvibuni. These species were found at all study sites. R. invadens, I. aegyptiaca and P. viburni had a relative abundance of 100% in Diawala, Kombolokoura and Koumbala respectively. In both study areas, the parasitoids Gyranusoideatebygi Noyes and Anagyrusmangicola were observed in the localities surveyed.
EOSINOPHILIC MYENTERIC GANGLIONITIS - A CAUSE OF MEGACOLON IN 3 DAY OLD GIRL: A RARE CASE REPORT
Authors: Tripathi Charu , Setia Swati , Dhanetwal M.L , Gupta Aradhana , Kulkarni Anuprita
Published: September 2024

Eosinophilicmyentericganglionitis is an uncommon myenteric plexus inflammatory neuropathy with characteristic eosinophilic infiltration with or without hypoganglionosis. In our case, a full-term female newborn delivered via cesarean section had a delayed meconium transit, abdominal distension, and vomiting .Imaging findings showed the multiple dilated bowel loops. Microscopic analysis of the biopsy obtained from the rectosigmoid area shows presence of eosinophils in between the plexus fibres mainly around the ganglion cells.These features were consistent with the diagnosis of EosinophilicMyentericGanglionitis.
A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY TO ASSESS THE PREVALENCE AND COPING STRATEGIES OF CYBERBULLYING AMONG SENIOR SECONDARY STUDENTS STUDYING IN SELECTED SCHOOLSOF DEHRADUN, UTTARAKHAND IN A VIEW TO CREATE AN AWARENESS PROGRAM ON CYBERBULLYING
Authors:   B.Sc.Nursing 4th Year, Nursing, Doon Institute of Medical Sciences, Sahaspur, Dehradun., , Pooja , , Noorjahan ,   B.Sc.Nursing 4th Year, Nursing, Doon Institute of Medical Sciences, Sahaspur, Dehradun., , Nikita ,   B.Sc.Nursing 4th Year, Nursing, Doon Institute of Medical Sciences, Sahaspur, Dehradun., , Naina ,   B.Sc.Nursing 4th Year, Nursing, Doon Institute of Medical Sciences, Sahaspur, Dehradun., , Manisha ,   B.Sc.Nursing 4th Year, Nursing, Doon Institute of Medical Sciences, Sahaspur, Dehradun., , Nancy ,   B.Sc.Nursing 4th Year, Nursing, Doon Institute of Medical Sciences, Sahaspur, Dehradun., and Ramveer ,   B.Sc.Nursing 4th Year, Nursing, Doon Institute of Medical Sciences, Sahaspur, Dehradun., Thapa Shristi ,   Assistant Professor, Mental Health Nursing, Dev-bhoomi Uttarakhand University, School of Nursing.
Published: September 2024

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, Text, and apps or online in social media forums or gaming where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, postingor sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else causing embarrassment or humiliation. The national cyber bullying foundation recommends that senior students of any gender between 16 to 19 years suffer from cyber bullying. A descriptive study was conducted on 100 senior secondary students to assess the prevalence and coping strategies regarding cyber bullying in selected senior secondary schools of Dehradun. The sample were selected through random convenience technique. Data was collected through self-structured socio-demographicttool, Standardized tool Cyberbullying online aggression survey and Coping with cyberbullying questionnaire were used to assess the prevalence and coping strategies. It was found that 41% students were male who are suffered from cyber bullying and 59% students were female.The senior secondary who were previously cyberbullied were found with only 20%. It was found in the study that most of the senior secondary students were adopting technical competence as coping strategy to deal with cyberbullying scenarios. Only Source of internet usage was found significant with the prevalence of cyberbullying. Research study found that area of residence, socio-economic status, source of internet usage and screen time per day were significant with the adopted coping strategies for cyberbullying. Researchers conducted an awareness program regarding cyberbullying among senior secondary school students, which contributed to create an awareness regarding the cyberbullying negative impact on them and to cope with the scenarios of cyberbullying victimization.
Effect of long term storage of sugarcane spirit in stainless steel on physiochemical
Authors: d’Avila Gabriel Biscotto , Cardoso Maria das Graças , Santiago Wilder Douglas , Caetano Alex Rodrigues Silva , Alvarenga Gabriela Fontes , Oliveira Renan Elan da Silva , Campolina Gabriela Aguiar , Ferreira Vanuzia Rodrigues Fernandes , Santos Pâmela Aparecida dos , Abrantes Ana Paula , Fernandes Antonia Isadora , Nelson David Lee
Published: September 2024

Cachaça and sugarcane spirits are beverages consumed in Brazil and all over the world. These beverages are usually stored in wooden or stainless steel containers. The objectives of this work were to analyze the physicochemical and chromatographic profile of sugarcane spirits produced in different harvests and the influence on the quality parameters of this beverage stored in stainless steel containers. Fifteen samples from crops produced between 1996 and 2016 and stored in stainless steel tanks were analyzed. There was a wide variation in the percentages of secondary compounds and contaminants. Of the 15 samples analyzed, the compositions of five samples were outside the legal limits: A/1996 (butan-1-ol concentration was above 3.0 mg/100 mL of anhydrous alcohol (aa)), D/2000 (concentration of alcohol and congeners was lower than 38% v/v and 200 mg/100 mL of aa, respectively), F/2002 (concentration of congeners were lower than 200 mg/100 mL of aa), G/2003 (butan-1-ol concentration was greater than 3.0 mg /100 mL of aa), N1/2016 (aldehyde concentrations were greater than 30 mg/100 mL of aa), Thus, these samples are not recommended for consumption and commercialization. None of the samples contained copper concentrations that exceeded the legal limit. Zinc was detected at concentrations lower than 1.0 mg/L. Cadmium, chromium, lead and iron were not detected. The storage of the beverage in stainless steel barrels for a period of up to 20 years modified the physical-chemical characteristics of the spirit. However, it does not offer risks regarding the contamination of the product by metals because, when detected, they were present in concentrations that that would not be harmful for consumers.