bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Oxygen Evolution Reaction at MoS2 Edge Sites: The Role of a Solvent Environment in DFT-Based Molecular Simulations
Authors: German Estefania , Gebauer Ralph
Published: July 2023

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are employed to study the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) on the edges of stripes of monolayer molybdenum disulfide. Experimentally, this material has been shown to evolve oxygen, albeit with low efficiency. Previous DFT studies have traced this low catalytic performance to the unfavourable adsorption energies of some reaction intermediates on the MoS2 edge sites. In this work, we study the effects of the aqueous liquid surrounding the active sites. A computational approach is used, where the solvent is modeled as a continuous medium providing a dielectric embedding of the catalyst and the reaction intermediates. A description at this level of theory can have a profound impact on the studied reactions: the calculated overpotential for the OER is lowered from 1.15 eV to 0.77 eV. It is shown that such variations in the reaction energetics are linked to the polar nature of the adsorbed intermediates, which leads to changes in the calculated electronic charge density when surrounded by water. These results underline the necessity to computationally account for solvation effects, especially in aqueous environments and when highly polar intermediates are present.
Multifunctional Hollow Porous Fe3O4@N-C Nanocomposites as Anodes of Lithium-Ion Battery, Adsorbents and Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrates
Authors: Qi Chunxia , Zhao Mengxiao , Fang Tian , Zhu Yaping , Wang Peisan , Xie Anjian , Shen Yuhua
Published: July 2023

At present, it is still a challenge to prepare multifunctional composite nanomaterials with simple composition and favorable structure. Here, multifunctional Fe3O4@nitrogen-doped carbon (N-C) nanocomposites with hollow porous core-shell structure and significant electrochemical, adsorption and sensing performances were successfully synthesized through the hydrothermal method, polymer coating, then thermal annealing process in nitrogen (N2) and lastly etching in hydrochloric acid (HCl). The morphologies and properties of the as-obtained Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites were markedly affected by the etching time of HCl. When the Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites after etching for 30 min (Fe3O4@N-C-3) were applied as the anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), the invertible capacity could reach 1772 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at the current density of 0.2 A g−1, which is much better than that of Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites etched, respectively, for 15 min and 45 min (948 mA h g−1 and 1127 mA h g−1). Additionally, the hollow porous Fe3O4@N-C-3 nanocomposites also exhibited superior rate capacity (950 mA h g−1 at 0.6 A g−1). The excellent electrochemical properties of Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites are attributed to their distinctive hollow porous core-shell structure and appropriate N-doped carbon coating, which could provide high-efficiency transmission channels for ions/electrons, improve the structural stability and accommodate the volume variation in the repeated Li insertion/extraction procedure. In addition, the Fe3O4@N-C nanocomposites etched by HCl for different lengths of time, especially Fe3O4@N-C-3 nanocomposites, also show good performance as adsorbents for the removal of the organic dye (methyl orange, MO) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates for the determination of a pesticide (thiram). This work provides reference for the design and preparation of multifunctional materials with peculiar pore structure and uncomplicated composition.
Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Praziquantel Analogues and New Molecular Hybrids as Potential Antimalarial and Anti-Schistosomal Agents
Authors: Kasago Freddy Mugisho , Häberli Cécile , Keiser Jennifer , Masamba Wayiza
Published: July 2023

Malaria and schistosomiasis are two of the neglected tropical diseases that persistently wreak havoc worldwide. Although many antimalarial drugs such as chloroquine are readily available, the emergence of drug resistance necessitates the development of new therapies to combat this disease. Conversely, Praziquantel (PZQ) remains the sole effective drug against schistosomiasis, but its extensive use raises concerns about the potential for drug resistance to develop. In this project, the concept of molecular hybridization was used as a strategy to design the synthesis of new molecular hybrids with potential antimalarial and antischistosomal activity. A total of seventeen molecular hybrids and two PZQ analogues were prepared by coupling 6-alkylpraziquanamines with cinnamic acids and cyclohexane carboxylic acid, respectively. The synthesised compounds were evaluated for their antimalarial and antischistosomal activity; while all of the above compounds were inactive against Plasmodium falciparum (IC50 > 6 µM), many were active against schistosomiasis with four particular compounds exhibiting up to 100% activity against newly transformed schistosomula and adult worms at 50 µM. Compared to PZQ, the reference drug, the activity of which is 91.7% at 1 µM, one particular molecular hybrid, compound 32, which bears a para-isopropyl group on the cinnamic acid moiety, exhibited a notable activity at 10 µM (78.2% activity). This compound has emerged as the front runner candidate that might, after further optimization, hold promise as a potential lead compound in the fight against schistosomiasis.
Serum Biomarker Concentrations upon Admission in Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: Associations with TBI Severity, Toxoplasma gondii Infection, and Outcome in a Referral Hospital Setting in Cameroon
Authors: Buh Franklin Chu , Taiwe Germain Sotoing , Kobeissy Firas H. , Wang Kevin W. , Maas Andrew I. R. , Motah Mathieu , Meh Basil Kum , Youm Eric , Hutchinson Peter J. A. , Sumbele Irene Ule Ngole
Published: July 2023

Despite the available literature on traumatic brain injury (TBI) biomarkers elsewhere, data are limited or non-existent in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The aim of the study was to analyse associations in acute TBI between the admission serum biomarker concentrations and TBI severity, CT-scan findings, and outcome, as well as to explore the influence of concurrent Toxoplasma gondii infection. The concentrations of serum biomarkers (GFAP, NFL Tau, UCH-L1, and S100B) were measured and Toxoplasma gondii were detected in the samples obtained <24 h post injury. GOSE was used to evaluate the 6-month outcome. All of the biomarker levels increased with the severity of TBI, but this increase was significant only for NFL (p = 0.01). The GFAP values significantly increased (p = 0.026) in those with an unfavourable outcome. The Tau levels were higher in those who died (p = 0.017). GFAP and NFL were sensitive to CT-scan pathology (p values of 0.004 and 0.002, respectively). The S100B levels were higher (p < 0.001) in TBI patients seropositive to Toxoplasma gondii. In conclusion, NFL was found to be sensitive to TBI severity, while NFL and GFAP were predictive of CT intracranial abnormalities. Increased levels of GFAP and Tau were associated with poorer outcomes 6 months after TBI, and the S100B levels were significantly affected by concurrent T. gondii infection in TBI patients compared with the seronegative patients.
A Pilot Goal-Oriented Episodic Future Thinking Weight Loss Intervention for Low-Income Overweight or Obese Young Mothers
Authors: Chang Mei-Wei , Tan Alai , Wegener Duane T. , Lee Rebecca E.
Published: July 2023

Background. Episodic future thinking (EFT) has shown efficacy in laboratory settings. We conducted a pilot goal-oriented EFT (GoEFT) intervention in a real-world setting to help low-income overweight or obese mothers lose weight. This paper presents intervention acceptability and efficacy. Methods. The study used a single-group, before–after design. During the 3-week intervention, participants (N = 15) completed weekly web-based lessons and online health coaching sessions to manage stress and emotion, eat healthier, and be more physically active. Participants completed online surveys at baseline and immediately after the intervention. They also completed an interview to evaluate intervention acceptability. We applied paired t-tests to evaluate efficacy and used content analysis to discover interview themes. Results. Participants consistently identified the intervention as acceptable, noting the usefulness of pre-written goals, GoEFT strategies, and goal progress evaluations. The intervention effectively promoted weight loss (d = −0.69), fruit and vegetable intake (d = 0.45–0.49), and emotion control (d = 0.71). It also reduced fat (d = −0.51) and added sugar intake (d = −0.48) and alleviated stress (d = −0.52). Moreover, the intervention increased autonomous motivation (d = 0.75–0.88) and self-efficacy (d = 0.46–0.61). Conclusion. The GoEFT intervention was acceptable to participants, showing strong preliminary efficacy.
Association between Mediterranean Diet and Type 2 Diabetes: Multiple Cross-Sectional Analyses
Authors: Bossel Adèle , Waeber Gérard , Garnier Antoine , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Kraege Vanessa
Published: July 2023

Aim: To assess whether the Mediterranean diet (MD) is associated with lower levels of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in a non-Mediterranean population. Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of follow-ups 1 (FU1, 2009–2012, n = 4398, 45.7% men, 57.7 ± 10.5 years), 2 (FU2, 2014–2017, n = 3154, 45.0% men, 61.7 ± 9.9 years), and 3 (FU3, 2018–2021, n = 2394, 45.2% men, 65.0 ± 9.6 years) of the Colaus|PsyCoLaus study (Lausanne, Switzerland). Two MD scores (Trichopoulou, noted MD1, and Sofi, noted MD2) were calculated using participants’ dietary data. T2D was defined as a fasting plasma glucose ≥7 mmol/L and/or the presence of an antidiabetic drug treatment. Results: Participants with the highest MD adherence had a higher educational level, a lower BMI, were less frequent smokers, presented less frequently with hypertension, and were more frequent alcohol consumers. After multivariable adjustment, no differences were found between participants with and without T2D regarding MD scores: 3.93 ± 0.07 vs. 3.97 ± 0.02; 4.08 ± 0.10 vs. 3.98 ± 0.03, and 3.83 ± 0.11 vs. 3.97 ± 0.03, respectively, for the MD1 score in FU1, FU2, and FU3. In addition, no association was found between adherence to MD and T2D: odds ratio (and 95% confidence interval) for medium and high relative to low adherence to MD1: 0.87 (0.68–1.10) and 0.89 (0.64–1.24) in FU1, 1.04 (0.76–1.42) and 1.07 (0.68–1.67) in FU2, and 0.73 (0.53–1.03) and 0.61 (0.37–1.02) in FU3, respectively. Corresponding results for MD2 were 0.90 (0.70–1.15) and 1.03 (0.69–1.53) in FU1, 1.16 (0.82–1.63) and 1.40 (0.81–2.41) in FU2, and 0.93 (0.65–1.34) and 0.55 (0.28–1.08) in FU3. Conclusion: We found no association between Mediterranean diet adherence and T2D in a non-Mediterranean population.
Associative Genetic Diversity of Sarcocystis levinei Isolates across the Globe
Authors: Sudan Vikrant , Shanker Daya , Paliwal Sanjhi , Kumar Rahul
Published: July 2023

Bubaline sarcocystosis, caused by Sarcocystis levinei, is worldwide in distribution. Yet, very limited reports are available across the globe on the phylogenetic aspects of this particular Sarcocystis spp. Virtually no literature is available on its molecular aspects from India. Thus, the present study was designed to phylogenetically characterize the various isolates of S. levinei based on 18S rRNA and cox 1 mitochondrial genes. A total of 11 isolates of S. levinei from Northern India were characterized for 18S rRNA (MG957189-MG957199) and cox 1 (MH255771-MH255781) genes. PCR products were cloned, sequenced, and compared with other sequences across the world. A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the maximum likelihood (ML) method. Phylogenetic analysis placed S. levinei and S. cruzi into two monophyletic sister groups. An appreciable amount of genetic variability was noticed between various S. levinei sequences for both the gene loci. A total of three haplotypes were noticed for each gene. The generated sequences showed 99.8–100.0% and 99.7–100.0% nucleotide homologies within themselves with regard to the 18S rRNA and cox 1 genes, respectively. Few of the studied sequences showed marked similarity and closeness with the Egyptian sequences than their Indian counterparts. This is the first report of molecular characterization and sequence phylogenetic study of S. levinei from India.
Study of Coherent Smith–Purcell Radiation in the Terahertz Region Using Ultra-Short Electron Bunches
Authors: Yamada Hiroki , Muto Toshiya , Hinode Fujio , Kashiwagi Shigeru , Nanbu Ken-ichi , Kanomata Ken , Nagasawa Ikuro , Takahashi Ken , Shibata Koutaro , Hama Hiroyuki
Published: July 2023

Smith–Purcell radiation (SPR) can be generated nondestructively, providing valuable applications in light sources and beam monitors. Coherent SPR is expected to enable single-shot measurements of very short bunch lengths on the fs scale. Since the reconstruction of the longitudinal bunch shape from the coherent SPR is based on the reliable SPR spectrum, a more detailed understanding of the properties of the radiation is important in this context. Employing a 100 fs ultrashort electron bunch at the t-ACTS test accelerator, the spectrum, angular distribution, and polarization of the produced coherent SPR were measured in the terahertz frequency region and compared with a model calculation. In addition to the widely known surface current model evaluation, the effect of the geometrical shading effect on induced currents on metal surfaces was evaluated using 3D numerical calculations. The obtained SPR characteristics are also presented. In the evaluation of the grating with a shallow blaze angle, it was found that the shading effect has a non-negligible effect on the generated SPR intensity; the measured angular distribution and polarization results were in good agreement with this result.
Pathogenicity and Antibiotic Resistance Diversity in Clostridium perfringens Isolates from Poultry Affected by Necrotic Enteritis in Canada
Authors: García-Vela Sara , Martínez-Sancho Agustí , Said Laila Ben , Torres Carmen , Fliss Ismail
Published: July 2023

Necrotic enteritis (NE) caused by C. perfringens is one of the most common diseases of poultry and results in a huge economic loss to the poultry industry, with resistant clostridial strains being a serious concern and making the treatment difficult. Whole-genome sequencing approaches represent a good tool to determine resistance profiles and also shed light for a better understanding of the pathogen. The aim of this study was to characterize, at the genomic level, a collection of 20 C. perfringens isolates from poultry affected by NE, giving special emphasis to resistance mechanisms and production of bacteriocins. Antimicrobial resistance genes were found, with the tet genes (associated with tetracycline resistance) being the most prevalent. Interestingly, two isolates carried the erm(T) gene associated with erythromycin resistance, which has only been reported in other Gram-positive bacteria. Twelve of the isolates were toxinotyped as type A and seven as type G. Other virulence factors encoding hyaluronases and sialidases were frequently detected, as well as different plasmids. Sequence types (ST) revealed a high variability of the isolates, finding new allelic combinations. Among the isolates, C. perfringens MLG7307 showed unique characteristics; it presented a toxin combination that made it impossible to toxinotype, and, despite being identified as C. perfringens, it lacked the housekeeping gene colA. Genes encoding bacteriocin BCN5 were found in five isolates even though no antimicrobial activity could be detected in those isolates. The bcn5 gene of three of our isolates was similar to one previously reported, showing two polymorphisms. Concluding, this study provides insights into the genomic characteristics of C. perfringens and a better understanding of this avian pathogen.
Turbidite Fan Deposits in Gentle Slope Zones of Continental Faulted Basins: A Case Study from the Chezhen Depression, Bohai Bay Basin
Authors: Cheng Junyang , He Xianke , Duan Dongping , Li Jingzhe
Published: July 2023

Turbidite fans, serving as good reservoirs for petroleum accumulation, are typically formed during deep faulting periods in continental basins, particularly in steep slope zones. However, gentle slope zones are also significant and unique for the formation of turbidite fans. These turbidite fans hold immense importance in exploring concealed lithological reservoirs. Taking the Chezhen Depression of Bohai Bay Basin as an example, we conducted a comprehensive study of the turbidite fan deposits in the gentle slope zone. Our results indicate that (1) small-scale distal-source turbidite fans are a common sedimentary type in the Chezhen Depression of the Bohai Bay Basin; (2) the study area is mainly characterized by seven lithofacies; (3) there are incomplete Bouma sequences in the study interval. This study is an important turbidite investigation into continental faulted basins, and it can also provide an important reference value for exploration and development in unconventional reservoirs of the same type.
Pharmacokinetic and Toxicological Aspects of 1,3-Dimethylamylamine with Clinical and Forensic Relevance
Authors: Rodrigues Afonso Nóbrega , Dinis-Oliveira Ricardo Jorge
Published: July 2023

1,3-dimethylamylamine (1,3-DMAA) is a simple straight-chain aliphatic sympathomimetic amine, which was used as a nasal decongestant between 1948 and 1983. It reappeared in both dietary supplements as a substitute for ephedrine, and in party pills as an alternative to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine and/or 1-benzylpiperazine, after these substances were banned. Following its introduction to the market, it became one of the most widely used stimulants, and several case reports started to raise concerns about the safety and adverse effects of 1,3-DMAA. As a result, many countries banned or restricted the sale of 1,3-DMAA. Nevertheless, despite the efforts of regulating agencies, it has been reported that 1,3-DMAA is still found in dietary supplements and has been identified in doping controls. Therefore, the objective of this work is to review both the clinical and forensic aspects of 1,3-DMAA.
Investigation of the Usability of Reduced Alkalinity Red Mud in the Building Material Industry
Authors: Jakab Miklós , Patthy Gergely Balázs , Korim Tamás , Makó Éva
Published: July 2023

Untreated and pH-reduced red mud is used as a potential raw material in ceramic technology. During the alkalinity reduction process, CO2 is bubbled through the untreated red mud, which is particularly important as it can reduce the CO2 content of the atmosphere, and the pH of the red mud. Therefore, this method serves as a CO2 capture technique that utilizes waste as a raw material with low costs. Besides, reducing CO2 emission, it allows the production of material suitable for brick manufacturing from waste. In this study, treated and reduced alkalinity red mud was mixed with clay in the range of 5–30 wt%, and the physical, chemical, mechanical, and technologically important properties of the dried and sintered bricks were examined. The application of reduced alkalinity red mud as an additive offers advantages, as the resulting bricks require less water for processing, are less sensitive to drying, and their strength values exceed those of the commercially available bricks. Therefore, the technique presented in the study enables the production of bricks and roof tiles with advantageous properties using waste materials.
Collaborative Trajectory Planning and Resource Allocation for Multi-Target Tracking in Airborne Radar Networks under Spectral Coexistence
Authors: Shi Chenguang , Dong Jing , Salous Sana , Wang Ziwei , Zhou Jianjiang
Published: July 2023

This paper develops a collaborative trajectory planning and resource allocation (CTPRA) strategy for multi-target tracking (MTT) in a spectral coexistence environment utilizing airborne radar networks. The key mechanism of the proposed strategy is to jointly design the flight trajectory and optimize the radar assignment, transmit power, dwell time, and signal effective bandwidth allocation of multiple airborne radars, aiming to enhance the MTT performance under the constraints of the tolerable threshold of interference energy, platform kinematic limitations, and given illumination resource budgets. The closed-form expression for the Bayesian Cramér–Rao lower bound (BCRLB) under the consideration of spectral coexistence is calculated and adopted as the optimization criterion of the CTPRA strategy. It is shown that the formulated CTPRA problem is a mixed-integer programming, non-linear, non-convex optimization model owing to its highly coupled Boolean and continuous parameters. By incorporating semi-definite programming (SDP), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and the cyclic minimization technique, an iterative four-stage solution methodology is proposed to tackle the formulated optimization problem efficiently. The numerical results validate the effectiveness and the MTT performance improvement of the proposed CTPRA strategy in comparison with other benchmarks.
Congestion Analysis of Transport Layer in a Multicell 5G DL Communication System
Authors: Andras Cristina Maria , Barb Gordana , Alexa Florin , Balint Cornel
Published: July 2023

The fifth generation (5G) marks an important advance in mobile network capabilities. When it comes to high data rates, capacity, spectrum efficiency, and availability, 5G mobile broadband goes above and beyond what was previously possible with standard mobile broadband. The construction of 5G networks is still in the planning stages. These 5G networks will create intelligent networked communication environments by connecting people, things, data, applications, and transport networks. Mobile networks have made it possible for customers’ mobile devices (such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and so on) to connect to the internet. A variety of distinct protocols will be required to take into consideration the various aspects that 5G possess. One of these is the transport protocol, which is intended to deliver extremely high data transfer rates up to 400 Gbps. The transmission control protocol (TCP) is one of the numerous protocols that are necessary for supporting 5G’s many capabilities. Our work focuses on the detection and analysis, on the downlink (DL) side, of the congestion of the transport layer in single- and multicell environments. For the purpose of the analysis, the following metrics were analyzed: physical resource blocks (PRBs), user throughput, cell throughput, cell edge user throughput, and delay. The work emphasizes the activation of the TCP slow-start algorithm using file transfer protocol (FTP) model two according to 3GPP standards.
RT-qPCR-Based Assessment of the Efficacy of 222 nm UVC Irradiation in Reducing SARS-CoV-2 Surface Contamination
Authors: Gruode Jurate , Martinkenas Arvydas , Kurmis Mindaugas , Drungilas Darius , Lukosius Zydrunas , Tadzijevas Arturas , Didziokas Rimantas , Jankunas Valdas , Sapalas Deivydas
Published: July 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has emerged as a serious threat to human health worldwide. The effective disinfection of surfaces contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 may help prevent its spread. The aim of this study is to determine the duration required for viral RNA elimination by 222 nm far ultraviolet light using RT-qPCR as a tool. This study investigated the effect of 222 nm UVC irradiation on SARS-CoV-2 RNA in an in vitro experiment. The results showed that the copy number of SARS-CoV-2 RNA did not change even after 300 s of 222 nm UVC irradiation at 0.1 mW/cm2, but extending the exposure to more than 600 s reduced the number of copies of SARS-CoV-2 virus significantly. However, to fully validate the results and enhance the robustness of the findings, it is crucial to increase the number of samples analyzed in future experiments.
Stability-Indicating Quantification of Ciprofloxacin in the Presence of Its Main Photo-Degradation Product by CZE and UPLC: A Comparative Study
Authors: Alabbas Alhumaidi B. , Abdel-Gawad Sherif A.
Published: July 2023

Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) can be assured to be safe and effective with the help of stability-indicating procedures. An accurate comparison comprising the utilization of capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) for the sensitive and accurate measurement of ciprofloxacin (CPF) in the presence of its major photo-degradation product was conducted. The CZE and UPLC working conditions were optimized to obtain the best pattern of separation for CPF and its photo-degradant. The linearity range of the cited techniques was confirmed to be 0.5 to 50 µg/mL. A thorough validation scheme according to the ICH-Q2B criteria was performed, including linearity, accuracy, precision, robustness, detection, and quantification limits. Selective quantification of CPF in the presence of up to 90% of its main photo-degradant was carried out using the proposed methods. For the analysis of CPF in tablet and intravenous (I.V.) solution forms, the CZE and UPLC procedures were applied. The suggested methods can be applied to keep an eye on the safety and efficacy of CPF in either bulk or dosage forms.
Evaluation of Urban Ecological Livability from a Synergistic Perspective: A Case Study of Beijing City, China
Authors: Fu Chun , Zhang Huimin
Published: July 2023

The ecological livability of a city reflects the overall civilization degree and sustainable development ability of this region. The establishment of a scientific and reasonable evaluation index system for eco-livable cities helps analyze the level of sustainable development of cities and the quality of life of residents, thus promoting high-quality development of cities. However, few scholars construct a universal evaluation index system for eco-livable cities from synergistic perspective. This paper establishes a multidimensional evaluation index system based on the Theory of Synergism of Five Laws (considering five aspects of economy, society, technology, environment and nature) and analyzes the trends of the evaluation value and coupling coordination degree of five systems in Beijing from 2010 to 2021 by using the systematic methods of a five-law analysis and a five-law synergy integration included in the Theory of Synergism of Five Laws, respectively. The results show that the ecological livability of Beijing generally maintains an upward trend and reaches a well-coordinated level in 2021, but the development level of each system is constrained by different factors. Based on the above results, this paper proposes policy recommendations to improve the ecological livability of cities in combination with the comprehensive model of policy-oriented coupling of multiple subjects to promote the coupling of five systems, with a view to providing references for decision-making in building an eco-livable city.
Numerical Analysis of Nonlinear Fractional System of Jaulent–Miodek Equation
Authors: Alzahrani Abdulrahman A. B. M.
Published: July 2023

This paper presents the optimal auxiliary function method (OAFM) implementation to solve a nonlinear fractional system of the Jaulent–Miodek Equation with the Caputo operator. The OAFM is a vital method for solving different kinds of nonlinear equations. In this paper, the OAFM is applied to the fractional nonlinear system of the Jaulent–Miodek Equation, which describes the behavior of a physical system via a set of coupled nonlinear equations. The Caputo operator represents the fractional derivative in the equations, improving the system’s accuracy and applicability to the real world. This study demonstrates the effectiveness and efficiency of the OAFM in solving the fractional nonlinear system of the Jaulent–Miedek equation with the Caputo operator. This study’s findings provide important insights into the behavior of complex physical systems and may have practical applications in fields such as engineering, physics, and mathematics.
A New Lomax Extension: Properties, Risk Analysis, Censored and Complete Goodness-of-Fit Validation Testing under Left-Skewed Insurance, Reliability and Medical Data
Authors: Salem Moustafa , Emam Walid , Tashkandy Yusra , Ibrahim Mohamed , Ali M. Masoom , Goual Hafida , Yousof Haitham M.
Published: July 2023

The idea of symmetry, which is used to describe the shape of a probability distribution, is a key concept in the theory of probability. The use of symmetric and asymmetric distributions is common in statistical inference, decision-making, and probability calculations. This article introduces a novel asymmetric model for assessing risks under a skewed claims dataset. The new distribution is also employed for both censored and uncensored validation testing. Four estimation methods, maximum likelihood, ordinary least squares, L-Moment, and Anderson Darling, were used for the risk assessment and analysis. To explain the exposure to risk within actuarial claims data, we introduced five crucial indicators, namely value-at-risk, tail-value-at-risk, tail variance, tail mean-variance, and mean excess losses. A numerical and graphical analysis is presented to assess the actuarial risk. Furthermore, the article discusses a newly developed Rao Robson Nikulin statistic for censored and uncensored validation testing. The validation testing also involved the insurance claims dataset.
Modelling Differential Diagnosis of Febrile Diseases with Fuzzy Cognitive Map
Authors: Obot Okure , John Anietie , Udo Iberedem , Attai Kingsley , Johnson Ekemini , Udoh Samuel , Nwokoro Chukwudi , Akwaowo Christie , Dan Emem , Umoh Uduak , Uzoka Faith-Michael
Published: July 2023

The report of the World Health Organization (WHO) about the poor accessibility of people living in low-to-middle-income countries to medical facilities and personnel has been a concern to both professionals and nonprofessionals in healthcare. This poor accessibility has led to high morbidity and mortality rates in tropical regions, especially when such a disease presents itself with confusable symptoms that are not easily differentiable by inexperienced doctors, such as those found in febrile diseases. This prompted the development of the fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) model to serve as a decision-support tool for medical health workers in the diagnosis of febrile diseases. With 2465 datasets gathered from four states in the febrile diseases-prone regions in Nigeria with the aid of 60 medical doctors, 10 of those doctors helped in weighting and fuzzifying the symptoms, which were used to generate the FCM model. Results obtained from computations to predict diagnosis results for the 2465 patients, and those diagnosed by the physicians on the field, showed an average of 87% accuracy for the 11 febrile diseases used in the study. The number of comorbidities of diseases with varying degrees of severity for most patients in the study also covary strongly with those found by the physicians in the field.
Cosmic-Ray Acceleration and Magnetic Fields in Galaxy Clusters and Beyond: Insights from Radio Observations
Authors: Wittor Denis
Published: July 2023

The discovery of diffuse radio emission in galaxy clusters proved the existence of energetic cosmic-ray electrons and cosmic magnetic fields on Mpc-scales in the Universe. Furthermore, both magnetic fields and cosmic-ray electrons are predicted to exist beyond galaxy clusters, namely, in the filaments and voids of the cosmic web. Recent detection of diffuse radio emission in intercluster bridges—the region between two merging clusters—strengthens the theory that both cosmic magnetic fields and cosmic-ray electrons exist on these large scales. Radio observations are our most powerful tool to study cosmic magnetic fields and cosmic-ray electrons in the Universe. The recent improvements in radio astronomy, including the exploration of the low-frequency radio sky, have led to the discovery of countless new radio sources, and hence a new understanding of the origin and evolution of cosmic magnetic fields and cosmic-ray electrons. In this contribution, we summarise the newest discoveries in the field. Furthermore, we discuss what these new radio observations teach us about cosmic magnetic fields and cosmic rays in galaxy clusters and beyond.
Islanding Detection in Grid-Connected Urban Community Multi-Microgrid Clusters Using Decision-Tree-Based Fuzzy Logic Controller for Improved Transient Response
Authors: Venkata Pavan Kumar Yellapragada , Naga Venkata Bramareswara Rao Sivakavi , Kannan Ramani
Published: July 2023

The development of renewable-energy-based microgrids is being considered as a potential solution to lessen the unrelenting burden on the centralized utility grid. Furthermore, recent studies reveal that integrated multi-microgrid cluster systems developed in urban communities maximize the effectiveness of microgrids and greatly decrease the utility grid dependence. However, due to the uncertain nature of renewable energy sources and frequent load variations, these systems face issues with unintentional islanding operations. This can create severe damage to the microgrid’s performance in its stable operating condition and lead to undesired transient responses. Hence, islanding must be identified rapidly to take preventive measures to address the issue. This requires the development of a suitable anti-islanding technique that is faster in terms of accuracy and timely detection. With this intention, this paper proposes a decision-tree-based fuzzy logic (DT-FL) controller for the rapid identification of islands in an urban community multi-microgrid cluster. The DT-FL controller’s operation includes two steps. First, the decision tree extracts the electrical parameters at the point of common coupling of the multi-microgrid system. Second, these extracted parameters are utilized for the online tuning of the fuzzy logic controller, for the fast detection of islanding. The multi-microgrid cluster under study, along with the proposed islanding technique, is implemented in the MATLAB-2021a software. The efficacy of the proposed DT-FL controller is validated by comparing its performance with that of the conventional fuzzy logic controller under different test scenarios. From the results, it is observed that the proposed DT-FL controller shows superior performance in terms of the islanding detection time as well as the transient response of the system when compared with the conventional controller.
Adult-Type Granulosa Cell Tumor of the Testis: A Report of a Case and a Discussion of the Literature
Authors: Zervopoulos Georgios , Mitsimponas Nikolaos , Venetsanos Filippos , Papathanasis Athanasios
Published: July 2023

Testicular granulosa cell tumors (TGCTs) are rare tumors of sex cord-stromal origin. TGCTs are classified into two main categories, the adult type and the juvenile type. The adult type is extremely rare, with only 93 known cases reported in the literature. Herein, we present a report of a case of a 30-year-old male patient who presented with a testicular mass and underwent radical inguinal orchiectomy; the pathology examination revealed an adult-type granulosa tumor. Additionally, we review the literature to summarize the scientific knowledge of an entity barely described worldwide.
The Deceased Transplant Recipients: A Forgotten Source of Organ Donors
Authors: Nghiem Dai D.
Published: July 2023

Background: Organ transplantation is the most successful therapy for end-stage organ disease since it increases the quality of life and life expectancy. For these reasons, over 107,000 patients were on the waitlist in the United States for a transplant in 2022. Unfortunately, only 42,887 transplants were performed, and annually, over 7000 patients on the kidney list die or are too sick to transplant. To solve this severe organ shortage, the use of the deceased transplant recipients with functioning organs, whether transplanted or native, is explored as a new source of organ donors. Methods: To assess the feasibility of this option, first, we will review the rate of kidney transplant recipients dying with functioning grafts (DWGF), their re-use, the organ allocation system, the technical aspects of the organ procurement, and the transplantation of the DWGF kidneys. Then, we will consider the larger group of all deceased transplant recipients as potential donors for all functioning, native, or transplanted organs. Conclusions: (1). All functioning kidney transplants explanted from the deceased transplant recipients have excellent long-term function after re-transplantation. (2). The other functioning organs constitute a large unrecognized pool of transplantable organs. (3). The intensivists and the transplant community should be educated about these new options to improve the organ shortage.
Tumor Necrosis Factor and Interleukin-1β Upregulate NRP2 Expression and Promote SARS-CoV-2 Proliferation
Authors: Ishitoku Michinori , Mokuda Sho , Araki Kei , Watanabe Hirofumi , Kohno Hiroki , Sugimoto Tomohiro , Yoshida Yusuke , Sakaguchi Takemasa , Masumoto Junya , Hirata Shintaro , Sugiyama Eiji
Published: July 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), utilizes the host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and the auxiliary receptor Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) to enter host cells. NRP1 has another isoform, NRP2, whose function in COVID-19 has seldom been reported. In addition, although patients with severe cases of COVID-19 often exhibit increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines, the relationship between these cytokines and SARS-CoV-2 proliferation remains unknown. The aim of this study is to clarify the roles of proinflammatory cytokines in Neuropilin expressions and in SARS-CoV-2 infection. To identify the expression patterns of NRP under inflamed and noninflamed conditions, next-generation sequencing (RNA-seq), immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time PCR, and Western blotting were performed using primary cultured fibroblast-like synoviocytes, MH7A (immortalized cell line of human rheumatoid fibroblast-like synoviocytes), immortalized MRC5 (human embryonic lung fibroblast), and synovial tissues. To measure viral proliferative capacity, SARS-CoV-2 infection experiments were also performed. NRP2 was upregulated in inflamed tissues. Cytokine-stimulated human fibroblast cell lines, such as MH7A and immortalized MRC5, revealed that NRP2 expression increased with co-stimulation of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and was suppressed with anti-TNFα antibody alone. TNFα and IL-1β promoted SARS-CoV-2 proliferation and Spike protein binding. The viral proliferation coincided with the expression of NRP2, which was modulated through plasmid transfections. Our results revealed that proinflammatory cytokines, including TNFα, contribute to NRP2 upregulation and SARS-CoV-2 proliferation in host human cells.
Aesthetic and functional rehabilitation of young children using zirconia crowns
Authors: Kameneva S. V. , Omekhina D. M. , Kushchenko N. V. , Golodniuk A. V.
Published: July 2023

Relevance. The need for functional restoration in young children is a sufficiently common problem in modern pediatric dentistry due to the behaviour characteristics of a child under three years old, which hinder dental treatment. Prefabricated zirconia crowns for children appeared relatively recently and have high aesthetic and functional properties. Purpose. To analyze the application of zirconia crowns for functional rehabilitation and periodontal disease prevention in young children, exemplified by clinical cases.

Clinical case description. The study presents a clinical case of functional and aesthetic restoration with zirconia crowns in a child under three years old.

Conclusion. Zirconia crowns are a promising alternative to other methods of restoring anterior teeth in a toddler. The clinical case shows that zirconia crowns look natural, fully compensate for the defect, restore the lost function without long-term complications and do not adversely affect the periodontium.
EFFECT OF LARVAL DENSITY AND DIET ON THE GROWTH AND SURVIVAL OF Perna perna MUSSELS IN RECIRCULATION SYSTEM (RAS).
Authors: Silveira Mariane , Gomes Renata , Gomes Carlos , Ferreira João , Squella Francisco , De Melo Claudio
Published: July 2023

This study evaluated the effect of initial larval stocking density and microalgae concentration in the diet on the growth and the number of competent larvae (number of live larvae at the end of the experiment retained on a sieve with mesh size of 210 µm) of Perna perna in a water recirculation system (RAS). The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design and factorial scheme, with one factor being the food concentration at three levels (low: between 1.26 to 2.19, medium: between 2.36 to 3.94 and high: 5.03 to 7.29 x 104 cells mL⁻¹) and the second factor being the larval culture density, also at three levels (20, 80 and 200 larvae mL⁻¹), with 3 replications in each treatment. Larvae fed with the diet with low and high concentrations did not reach competence (210 µm) in 16 days. However, for larvae fed with the medium concentration (2.36 to 3.94 x 104 cells mL⁻¹), the average percentage of competent larvae, on day 16, was 21.8% ± 7.45, 27.4% ± 9.91 and 0.80% ± 0.26 at the densities 20, 80 and 200 larvae mL-1, respectively.
Distintos abordajes teórico-metodológicos en diálogo para seguir pensando las fronteras
Authors: Dalla Torre Julieta , Sales Romina
Published: July 2023

Reseña de libro
Presentación del Dossier: Discapacidad y movilidad
Authors: Fernández Romero Francisco , Heredia Marina , Lucioni Nora , Rusler Verónica
Published: July 2023

En el ámbito académico latinoamericano, el cruce entre las perspectivas sobre la discapacidad y sobre la movilidad es más reciente que en el entorno angloparlante, donde existe una tradición extensa de aproximaciones a la discapacidad desde la geografía y otras disciplinas con mirada espacial. Sin embargo, en los últimos años, han surgido en nuestra región investigaciones –y también prácticas educativas, profesionales y activistas– que abordan dicho cruce de manera muy rica y sensible a nuestros propios contextos, en diálogo con las demandas históricas de las organizaciones lideradas por personas con discapacidad. Dichas líneas de indagación e intervención han trabajado sobre distintos aspectos de la accesibilidad (urbanística, arquitectónica, del transporte) y de las prácticas de personas con discapacidad, en desplazamientos que ocurren a distintas escalas: dentro de un edificio, a través de la ciudad, en el marco de actividades cotidianas o turísticas, etc.
Factors Influencing the Quality of Digital Game Localization
Authors: Kabát Marián
Published: July 2023

Software localization is an integral part of a business process as long as a company wants to sell their software products on a global scale. The purpose of the following article is to provide information about some key features of the development and publishing process that have a significant impact on digital game localization from English into Slovak. The selected features are based on a study by M. Kabát on localization aspects of non-gaming software that are here adapted to digital game localization, and on the author’s practical experience. Each key feature is briefly introduced and its impact on digital game localization is described. Where necessary, examples are provided. Other than presenting key features of digital game localization, the intent behind this paper is to spread information on digital game localization as I believe that, e.g., developers should be more informed on this topic to create more effective cooperation with localizers and in that way higher quality localization.
Prognostic and diagnostic roles of serum ferritin level in cancer
Authors: Barahman Maedeh , Nameh Goshay Fard Najmeh , Bahadoram Mohammad , Akade Esma'il , Mohghaddar Roozbeh
Published: July 2023

The ferritin level, a protein responsible for iron metabolism and storage, is a sensitive indicator of iron overload in various pathological conditions. In leukemia, ferritin levels increase with disease stages and can predict survival after transplantation. Leukemia-induced dysregulation of the ferroportin-hepcidin regulatory axis results in intracellular iron accumulation, activation of the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related signaling pathway, and inhibition of hematopoiesis, leading to anemia and increased dependence on red blood cell transfusions, thereby disrupting the physiological cycle. Additionally, ferritin levels rise in other types of cancer, indicating its potential as a target for both diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, understanding the role of ferritin and iron metabolism in leukemia and other diseases is crucial in developing effective treatment strategies to enhance patient outcomes.
Sonidegib induced rhabdomyolysis in kidney transplant patient: a case report
Authors: Mocka Sonila , Ferraro Stefano , Ardini Michela , Marchini Michele , Panaro Laura , Trezzi Matteo , Rolla Davide
Published: July 2023

Kidney transplant recipients (KTR) have a higher risk of developing malignancies compared to the general population, due to the immunosuppressive regimens which can promote the oncogenesis process. The incidence of de novo non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in KTR is greater than in the general population. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) represents one of the most frequent malignancies in KTR. Sonidegib is a Hedgehog signaling pathway inhibitor approved for the treatment of locally advanced basal-cell carcinoma (LABCC) that following surgery or radiation therapy, or is given to those candidates who are not eligible to surgery or radiation therapy. This paper reports the case of a kidney transplant patient, who developed severe acute kidney injury (AKI) due to rhabdomyolysis (RML) induced by sonidegib therapy which required renal replacement therapy (RRT).
Pengembangan E-Modul Berbasis Flip PDF dan Canva pada Materi Transformasi Geometri
Authors: Kurniawan Muhammad Al Falah , Yunianta Tri Nova Hasti , Kriswandani Kriswandani
Published: July 2023

E-module is an electronic version of the module that can be used as a learning tool that contains material, methods, constraints, and ways of evaluating that are designed systematically and attractively to achieve the expected competencies. The aim of this research is develop a valid, practical, and effective e-module based on Flip PDF and Canva on the geometry transformation material. This research is an R D research using the ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) model. The subjects of this study were 30 students of class IX SMP Negeri 9 Salatiga. Data collection techniques are observation, questionnaires, and tests. Data analysis used descriptive qualitative and quantitative analysis, Paired t-test, and N-Gain Score. The result of this research includes 1) the validation results of the e-module based on Flip PDF and Canva obtained the results of this e-module as valid as shown by the validation score of 86.155 with 90.35% and included in the "very good" category; 2) the significant of the paired t-test is 0.000 0.05 which means that there was a significant difference between the pretest score (pretest scores is 29,6667) and the posttest score (posttest score is 70,6667); and 3) the N-Gain Score test is 58,8527 (58,9%) with the criteria “effective enough.” Based on these results, it can be concluded that e-module using Flip PDF and Canva for junior high school students are effectively used as means of supporting learning materials.