bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Compliance and Accuracy in Parkinson's Disease Motor Symptom Tracking: A Comparative Study of Digital and Traditional Paper Diaries Using a Smartphone Application (My Parkinson’s)
Authors: Çelik Nazlı Durmaz , Yaman Kula Aslı , Murat Naci , Topal Aydan , Özkan Serhat
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate compliance and accuracy in comparison with traditional PD diaries for tracking motor symptoms using a new smartphone application (My Parkinson’s) and paper diary strategies. Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with progressive motor symptoms. Treatment becomes more challenging as PD progresses, motor complications in the form of wearing-off phenomenon and levodopa-induced dyskinesia develop. Traditional paper diaries and clinical scales used to evaluate patients may be inadequate in assessing whether the patient is “on” or “off,” resulting in less-than-ideal treatment changes. Methods: A randomized crossover design was utilized to examine 22 advanced PD patients who underwent symptomatic assessment with both diaries during two separate 24-hour periods seven days apart. The compliance and accuracy of data were assessed by comparing diary entries with the clinical examination notes and WhatsApp queries. Latterly, patients' diary preferences were also evaluated.; Results: The digital diary had significantly better compliance and accuracy than the paper diaries, with substantial/almost perfect levels of agreement (κ = 0·615 to 0·818) between logged symptoms and clinical examination notes. 65% of patients preferred the digital diary for follow-ups, and there was no significant difference in ease of use compared to paper diaries. Conclusions: Digital diaries are helpful in the clinical management of PD patients as they minimize recall bias and reduce data errors in appropriately selected patients. Our study suggests a broader adoption of digital health technologies in PD management. Still, additional research is necessary to improve the tools and assess long-term patient outcomes.
Chronic Low Dose Rate Radiation-Induced Persistent DNA Damage and miRNAs/mRNAs Expression Changes in the Mouse Hippocampus
Authors: Wang Hong , Lau Salihah , Tan Amanda , Tang FENG RU
Published: August 2024

Our previous study demonstrated that the acute high-dose rate (3.3 Gy/minute) gamma irradiation of postnatal day 3 (P3) mice with 5Gy induced depression and drastic neuropathological changes in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus of the adult mice. The present study investigated the effects of chronic low-dose-rate (1.2mGy/h) gamma irradiation from P30 to P180 with a cumulative dose of 5Gy on animal behaviour, hippocampal cellular change, miRNA and mRNA expression in the hippocampus and blood in female mice. The radiation exposure did not significantly affect the animal's body weight and neuropsychiatric changes such as anxiety and depression examined by neurobehavioural tests including open field, light-dark box, elevated plus maze, tail suspension test and forced swim test. Immunohistochemical staining did not detect any obvious loss of mature and immature neurons (NeuN and DCX) or any inflammatory glial response (IBA1, GFAP, and PDGFR1). Nevertheless, r-H2AX foci in the stratum granulosum of the dentate gyrus were significantly increased, suggesting the chronic low dose rate irradiation induced persistent DNA damage foci in mice. miRNA sequencing and qRT-PCR indicated an increased expression of miR-448-3p and miR-361-5p, but decreased expression of miR-193a-3p in the mouse hippocampus. Meanwhile, mRNA sequencing and qRT-PCR showed a reduced expression of Ccn1, Fli1, Fosb, Ets1, Hs3st5, and Eif4ebp1, but enhanced expression of Cort, Foxh1, and Opalin. Database searching by miRDB and TargetScan predicted that FLI1 and HS3ST5 are the targets of miR-448-3p, and Eif4ebp2 is the target of miR-361-5p. miRNA/mRNA sequencing and qRT-PCR results in blood showed the increased expression of miR-6967-3p and the decreased expression of its target S1pr5. The interactions of these miRNAs and mRNAs may contribute to the chronic low dose rate radiation-induced persistent DNA damage.
Assessment of Microvascular Function Based on Flowmotion Monitored by the FMSF Technique
Authors: Marcinek Andrzej , Katarzynska Joanna , Cypryk Katarzyna , Los-Stegienta Agnieszka , Slowikowska-Hilczer Jolanta , Walczak-Jedrzejowska Renata , Zielinski Jacek , Gebicki Jerzy
Published: August 2024

This review summarizes studies dedicated to the assessment of microvascular function based on microcirculatory oscillations monitored by the FMSF technique. Two approaches are presented. The first approach uses oscillatory parameters measured under normoxia conditions, expressed as flowmotion (FM), vasomotion (VM), and the normoxia oscillatory index (NOI). These parameters have been used for identification of impaired microcirculatory oscillations associated with intense physical exercise, post-COVID syndrome, psychological stress, and erectile dysfunction. The second approach involves characterization of the microcirculatory response to hypoxia based on the measurement of hypoxia sensitivity (HS). The HS parameter is used to characterize microvascular complications in diabetes, such as diabetic kidney disease and diabetic foot ulcers. Based on research conducted by the authors of this review, the FMSF parameter ranges characterizing microvascular function are presented. The diagnostic approach to assessing microvascular function based on flowmotion monitored by the FMSF technique has a wide range of applications and potential to be integrated into widespread medical practice.
Plant Density and Location: Optimization of Growth and Quality of Cut Sunflower in Tropical and Subtropical Environments
Authors: Tomasi Tuane Carlesso , Reis Lucas Coutinho , Taira Tiago Ledesma , Soares Jackeline Schultz , Tomiozzo Regina , Uhlmann Lilian Osmari , Streck Nereu Augusto , Sorgato José Carlos
Published: August 2024

The cultivation of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) as a cut flower stands out in floriculture due to its aesthetic beauty and commercial value. Understanding how cut sunflower genotypes adapt to different edaphoclimatic regions and management practices is essential to optimize flower quality and productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of plant density and location on the development, growth, and quality of cut sunflower in tropical and subtropical environments. Plant densities of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 plants/m² were evaluated in tropical climate and subtropical climate using a randomized block design in a factorial scheme. Results showed significant differences between locations for plant height, capitulum and stem diameter, final number of leaves, leaf area, leaf area index, phyllochron, and the developmental cycle. Plant density significantly influenced these variables except for plant height and developmental cycle. The interaction between location and plant density was significant only for capitulum diameter and final leaf number. The findings indicate that both planting density and location significantly influence the developmental cycle of cut sunflowers, with lower densities favoring more robust plants at harvest. A density of 30 plants/m² is recommended for efficient space use without significantly compromising floral stem quality. All produced stems are marketable, suggesting that adjusting planting density can optimize production without compromising quality, adapting to specific regional conditions.
Cement Clinker Modified by Photocatalyst – Selected Mechanical Properties and Photocatalytic Activity during NO and BTEX Decomposition
Authors: Janus Magdalena , Strzałkowski Jarosław , Zając Kamila , Kusiak-Nejman Ewelina
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a new way to obtain photoactive cements was presented. In this method amorphous TiO2 is added to cooler during the cooling of the cement clinker (Górażdże company) during cement production. Amorphous TiO2 was taken from the installation for obtaining titanium dioxide using the sulphate method. During the studies amorphous TiO2 was added to clinker at different temperature 300, 600, 700 and 800 °C. The properties of the obtained cement were tested during the bending and compressive strength and beginning and the end of bending setting time measurements. The adhesion of the obtained materials to concrete block, ceramic brick and plasterboard were also evaluated. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained materials was studied during NO and BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, p-,m-,o-xylenes decomposition) decomposition. Cement with 5 wt.% TiO2 added to clinker at 700 C had the highest photocatalytic activity and the best mechanical properties.
The Implications Of Covid-19 Crisis On The Socioeconomic Conditions Of Sudanese Families
Authors: Badri Amira Yousif Babiker , Bushra Hind ahmed
Published: August 2024

The pandemic crisis of Covid-19 disturbed the social and the economic systems in which some changes happened during the pandemic and other changes extended subsequently. This paper is reflecting on the Sudan case, a country of a moderate population and large area with poor socioeconomic standard and infrastructure. The paper is based on the analysis of primary data and policy recommendations of an original research undertaken in five States in Sudan during the period Sept.2021-Sept.2022. The sample of the study selected from most five States that were affected by the Corona pandemic, namely: Khartoum State, Gezira State in the Central Region, Kassala State and Gadarif State from the Eastern Region, and Nyala State in the South Darfur Region in the west of the country. The research built on a quantitative research method, used the questionnaire as a tool for data collection from a sample size of 723 family head-households.
The study is gaining a better understanding of the social, economic and health challenges that faced Sudanese households during the COVID-19 lock down and within the pandemic period. The study showed crucial results that the education of children was disturbed due to unavailability of the distance education in schools. In contrast some families maintained the education of the children as enrolled in private schools. In addition, the paper shows how the families used different approaches to educate their children and involve them into traditional informal and formal education ways.
Additionally, the results explained the coping strategies with available resources that families used to manage economic crises and how this interferes with children education. Furthermore, the study proposing appropriate social policies and interventions that address the needs of the family in the current and future pandemic crisis.
Research and Analysis for the Cognitive Principles of Vocational Education and Training in Greece at the beginning of the 21st Century
Authors: KOTSIFAKOS DIMITRIOS , Kiriakos Dimitrios , Kalovrektis Konstantinos , Psaromiligkos Yannis , Douligeris Christos
Published: August 2024

Today the Vocational Education and Training curriculum is state-regulated, combining school-based and work-based learning it is offered at upper-secondary and post-secondary levels. The main problem of nowadays period for Vocational Education and Training is about preparing a new agenda for technical education in Greece for the new circumstances. Our paper aims to enrich, redefine, and expand the current curricula and educational practices, while also proposing a complete plan for the overall reformation of Vocational Education and Training’s learning conditions from the point of view of teaching and learning analytics. Through the existing changing institutional framework, the updated bibliographic references, and the experiential data of the educational reality research, we can understand the expected needs of technological educators and decide how to address the priorities that must be determined. As a result of expectation and one of the main topics of this paper, we focus on the preparation of the trainers and the overall redefinition of the role of education in preparing graduates. This paper's main conclusions or interpretations for the cognitive orientation of the existing curricula, as well as the directions of the thinking and teaching skills of teachers, and to build confidence in the prospects of technical education in Greece.
Progressive Unsupervised Domain Adaptation for RF Signal Attribute Recognition across Communication Scenarios
Authors: Xiao Jing , Zhang Hang , Shao Zeqi , Zheng Yikai , Ding Wenrui
Published: August 2024

As the development of low-altitude economies and aerial countermeasures continues, the safety of unmanned aerial vehicles becomes increasingly critical, making the emitter identification in remote sensing practices more essential. Effective recognition of Radio Frequency (RF) signal attributes is a prerequisite for identifying emitters. However, due to the diverse wireless communication environments, RF signals often face challenges from complex and time-varying wireless channel conditions. These challenges lead to difficulties in data collection and annotation, as well as disparities in data distribution across different communication scenarios. To address this issue, this paper proposes a Progressive Maximum Similarity-based Unsupervised Domain Adaptation (PMS-UDA) method for RF signal attribute recognition. Initially, we introduce a noise perturbation consistency optimization method to enhance the robustness of the PMS-UDA method under low signal-to-noise conditions. Subsequently, a progressive label alignment training method is proposed, combining sample-level maximum correlation with distribution-level maximum similarity optimization techniques to enhance the similarity of cross-domain features. Finally, domain adversarial optimization method is employed to extract domain-independent features, reducing the impact of channel scenario. Experimental results demonstrate that the PMS-UDA method achieves superior recognition performance in automatic modulation recognition and RF fingerprint identification tasks, as well as cross both ground-to-ground and air-to-ground scenarios, compared to baseline methods.
Assessment of Serum Lipid Profile Variations in Sudanese Pregnant Women Across the Second and Third Trimesters
Authors: Salim Waleed A. , Odah Mohammad
Published: August 2024

Pregnancy is associated with significant physiological changes, including alterations in lipid metabolism, which can have implications for both maternal and fetal health. This study aimed to evaluate serum lipid profile variations among healthy Sudanese women during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. A total of 60 pregnant women, divided equally between the second and third trimesters, were compared with 30 non-pregnant, age-matched controls. Serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were measured using a BTS-Biosystem analyzer. The results revealed a statistically significant increase in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL levels among pregnant women compared to the control group (p < 0.01). Additionally, lipid levels were significantly higher in the third trimester than in the second trimester. A weak positive correlation was found between parity and serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, while no significant correlation was observed for HDL. These findings suggest that pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, is associated with substantial increases in serum lipid levels, highlighting the need for monitoring lipid profiles during pregnancy to manage potential risks of hyperlipidemia and its associated complications.
Prevalence of Lower Back Pain (LBP) and its Associated Risk Factors Among Alfaisal University Medical Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Behairy Mohamad , Odeh Samir , Alsourani Jouri , Talic Mohamad , Alnachef Sara , Qazi Sadia , Mazhar Muhammad Atif , Tamim Hani
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the prevalence and associated risk factors of Lower Back Pain (LBP) among medical students of Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional style was employed where 331 medical students were evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) supplemented with demographic and lifestyle questions. Data analysis allowed identification of LBP-risk factor relationships. The study revealed a 73.4% prevalence of LBP among Alfaisal University medical students with a 4.61 average severity. Female students, those who spent long hours on computers, and those who did not exercise were more likely to experience LBP. Higher disability degree was associated with participants aged >21, used their devices for extended periods, and insufficient sleep. LBP is highly prevalent with several risk factors existing. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions such as ergonomic/lifestyle improvements and reduced device use.
Perbandingan suasana akademik pada program pertukaran pelajar UNS - UNY
Authors: Azis Abdul , Mahendrati Gilang , Azizah Ika Nur , Utami Rizki Cahya
Published: August 2024

This study aims to explain and describe the atmosphere of the UNS - UNY student exchange program. Where student exchange is one of the Merdeka Learning Campus Merdeka programs. Merdeka Campus is one of the policies of the Minister of Education and Culture. Student exchanges are carried out in the PGSD UNS and PGSD UNY study programs. This research uses descriptive research with survey methods. Comparison of the academic atmosphere in the student exchange program at UNS and UNY in terms of various aspects, namely: The process of implementing learning at UNS and UNY, student activity, how to teach lecturers at UNS/ UNY during lectures on the student exchange program.
Pengaruh minat belajar dan berpikir kritis terahadap literasi numerasi peserta didik kelas V SD se-Kecamatan Laweyan
Authors: Septia Aulia Yogi , Rukayah Rukayah , Ardiansyah Roy
Published: August 2024

This study aims to find out: 1) the effect of learning interest on the numeracy literacy skills of fifth grade elementary school students 2) the effect of critical thinking skills on the fifth grade elementary school students' numeracy literacy skills, 3) the effect of learning interest and critical thinking skills on the numeracy literacy of fifth grade elementary school students. The research method used is a quantitative research method with an associative research design. The population of this study were all fifth grade elementary school students in Laweyan District with a sample of 53 fifth grade elementary school students. The results obtained in this study are: (1) there is a positive influence between learning interest on the numeracy literacy skills of fifth grade elementary school students in Laweyan District with a large influence of 23.1%, (2) there is a positive influence between thinking skills critical of the numeracy literacy ability of fifth grade elementary school students in Laweyan District with a large influence of 23.8%, (3) there is a positive influence between learning interest and critical thinking ability together on the digital literacy ability of fifth grade elementary school students throughout Laweyan District with a large influence of 29.9%.
Penggunaan media 3D untuk meningkatkan kemampuan numerasi siswa kelas VI pada mata pelajaran matematika materi bangun ruang di sekolah dasar
Authors: Safitri Rachmawati Adji , Mahfud Hasan , Supianto Supianto
Published: August 2024

This thesis research was carried out based on the existing problems in the field, namely the low numeracy skills of the sixth grade students of SD Negeri 1 Keputran. In this study, three-dimensional media were used in the subject matter of mathematics in geometric shapes. This study used the Classroom Action Research (CAR) method with a descriptive qualitative approach. Data collection techniques used in this study are: observation, interviews, documentation and tests. The results of this study indicate a fairly good increase in each cycle. In cycle I, the percentage of student completeness was 54.54% of a total of 22 students. In the implementation of cycle II, the percentage of student completeness was 68.18% of a total of 21 students. Cycle III obtained the results of the percentage of student completeness of 90.90% of a total of 22 students
Implementasi profil pelajar Pancasila pada projek IPAS materi Indonesiaku kaya budaya dimensi gotong royong peserta didik kelas IV Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Dwijayanti Mifta Nur Aini , Istiyati Siti , Surya Anesa
Published: August 2024

This research aims to (1) describe the planning, (2) describe the implementation, and (3) describe the evaluation of the implementation of the Pancasila student profile on the science and social studies project of the Indonesian cultural wealth material cooperation dimension of fourth grade students. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study research design. The subjects in this study were fourth grade students at Karangasem 4 elementary school. Data collection techniques use the results of document study, observation, and interview. The data analysis technique uses Creswell analysis. The data validity test technique uses triangulation techniques. The research results showed that the planning for implementing the Pancasila student profile was 97%, the implementation was 89%, and the evaluation was 96%. The results of the mutual cooperation dimension of fourth grade students were cooperation by 50%, communication of common purpose by 50%, positive dependency by 42%, social coordination by 44%, responsiveness of the social environment by 40%, social perception by 47%, and sharing knowledge by 46%. Influencing factors are internal, namely the influence of individualism and egoism due to globalization, and external, namely differentiations of student characteristics and the teacher's lack of ability to guide small group discussions.
Penggunaan model pembelajaran talking stick berbantuan media kuis interaktif quizizz untuk meningkatkan pemahaman konsep sumber energi peserta didik
Authors: Amelia Febrisha Arya , Matsuri Matsuri , Saputri Dwi Yuniasih
Published: August 2024

This classroom action research explains the application of learning using the talking stick learning model assisted by Quizizz interactive quiz media with the aim of increasing understanding of the concept of energy source material in grade IV students at SD Negeri Gawan 1, Gawan Village, Tanon District, Sragen Regency. This class action research is based on a mixed qualitative and quantitative research design because in reading the problem descriptive and quantitative data in the form of numbers. The subjects in this study are grade IV teachers as collaborators and grade IV students of SD Negeri 1 Gawan for the 2022/2023 school year. Data in this study were obtained through interviews, observations, documentation, and tests in the form of pretest and posttest. The validity test technique in this study uses data source triangulation and method triangulation. Data in this study were obtained through interviews, observations, documentation, and tests in the form of pretest and posttest. The validity test technique in this study uses data source triangulation and method triangulation. This research was carried out for three cycles with four stages each, namely planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The steps for implementing Quizizz's media-assisted talking stick model use the 11 steps described in chapter 2. Based on the implementation of learning using the talking stick learning model assisted by interactive quiz media, Quizizz can improve the understanding of the concept of energy source material in grade IV students in three cycles. The percentage of completeness increased in each cycle, namely cycle 1 by 22.22%, in cycle 2 by 55.56%, and cycle 3 by 88.89%.
Implementasi Metode Extreme Programming Pada Aplikasi Pengelolaan Sewa Mobil Berbasis Web
Authors: Moh. Fauzan  , Noor Al Azzam Mohammad
Published: August 2024

Untuk merancang dan mengembangkan aplikasi pengelolaan sewa mobil berbasis web studi kasus Zalfa Rent Car penulis menggunakan metode Extreme Programming (XP). Tujuan utama dari penelitian ini adalah meningkatkan efisiensi dan efektivitas proses pengelolaan sewa mobil dalam perusahaan tersebut. Langkah pertama dalam penelitian ini adalah menganalisis kebutuhan di Zalfa Rent Car terkait pengelolaan sewa mobil. Selanjutnya, pengembangan aplikasi dimulai dengan menggunakan siklus XP. Setelah pengembangan selesai, dilakukan pengujian akhir untuk memverifikasi bahwa aplikasi telah memenuhi kebutuhan dan persyaratan yang telah dibutuhkan. Hasil pengujian akan dievaluasi untuk mengidentifikasi kekurangan dan melakukan perbaikan yang diperlukan. Diharapkan bahwa hasil penelitian ini akan menghasilkan aplikasi pengelolaan sewa mobil berbasis web yang efisien, dapat diandalkan, dan sesuai dengan kebutuhan Zalfa Rent Car. Penelitian ini juga berkontribusi pada pemahaman tentang penerapan metode Extreme Programming dalam pengembangan perangkat lunak berbasis web untuk industri sewa mobil.
Kata Kunci: Aplikasi Pengelolaan Sewa Mobil, Berbasis Web, Extreme Programming
Particle size characteristics of energetic materials distributed from low-order functioning mortar munitions
Authors: Beal Samuel , Bigl Matthew
Published: August 2024

Particles of explosive filler distributed from low-order (LO) munition functioning are susceptible to dissolution and potential mobilization into groundwater and surface water. We command-initiated three mortar munitions as LO in triplicate using a fuze simulator and recovered particles from an ice surface to constrain LO particle characteristics. Total explosive mass recovery (19–55%) and spatial distribution (0->20 m) varied significantly both between munitions and between replicate LOs of the same munition. The median particle size (0.27–3.99 mm) varied with total mass recovery. In general, LO particles coarsened, and total mass deposition rates decreased logarithmically, with increasing distance from the initiation point.
THE INFLUENCE OF FINANCING MODEL AND CREDIT RISK ON FINANCIAL STABILITY (STUDY OF ISLAMIC RURAL BANKS IN JAVA ISLAND)
Authors: Addury Multazam Mansyur , Ramadhani Aprilia Kinasih Putri
Published: August 2024

This study examines the impact of profit-sharing financing and profit-margin financing on financial stability of Islamic Rural Banks (IRBs) in Java Island and incorporates credit risk as an intervening variable. Utilizing a panel dataset of 90 registered IRBs operating in Java Island from 2011 to 2021 and applying path analysis, we find that profit margin financing has a significant negative impact on the financial stability of IRBs, both directly and indirectly through its association with credit risk. In contrast, profit sharing financing shows a positive and significant direct effect on financial stability. This result implies that profit margin financing may pose a greater risk to the financial stability of IRBs than profit-sharing financing.  The study highlights the need for IRBs to carefully manage their financing strategies, taking into consideration the potential risks associated with profit margin financing. Effective risk management practices are crucial for mitigating credit risk and ensuring the overall stability of IRBs. The research emphasizes the importance of a selective approach in providing profit-sharing financing to mitigate potential risks. It also underscores the significance of striking a balance between profitability and credit risk management to ensure the long-term stability of IRBs.
THE ADOPTION OF ISLAMIC FINANCE BY CAMEROONIAN SME ENTREPRENEURS: ARE THERE GENDER DISPARITIES?
Authors: Haruna Ali , Kountchou Armand Mboutchouang , Oumbe Honoré Tekam , Wirajing Muhamadu Awal Kindzeka
Published: August 2024

The recent surge in the global asset value of Islamic finance has pushed Cameroonian policymakers to consider this mode of finance as an important element of the national financial inclusion strategy. This study examines the factors that influence the adoption of Islamic finance by SME entrepreneurs on the one hand and gender differences in adoption on the other hand in Cameroon, a non-Muslim-dominated African country. Based on a sample of 1,358 SME entrepreneurs, a simple logistic model is adopted to analyze the determinants of the decision to adopt Islamic finance while the Fairlie decomposition is afterward employed to test for gender disparities vis-a-vis the adoption of this mode of finance. Results of the logistic regression show that the need to abide by the Sharia law, awareness, attitude, intention, location, and gender positively and significantly affect the decision to patronize the Islamic mode of financing by Cameroonian SME entrepreneurs while subjective norms and age exert negative effects. The results of the Fairlie decomposition show that there exists a mean difference of 8% to the disadvantage of female entrepreneurs concerning the adoption of Islamic finance and that this gap is widened by religious motivation, awareness, intention, and location. Policymakers are encouraged to enhance the level of Islamic finance awareness of SME entrepreneurs, and the sharia compliance of Islamic finance institutions by obliging them to operate under the guidance of qualified sharia boards. These policies should be supported by the implementation of accompanying measures, such as the eradication of societal norms that restrict women's ability to use Islamic finance services.
Dynamic-Permeability Variations Induced During CO2-EOR Application in Carbonate Reservoirs: Upper Red River Formation, North Dakota
Authors: Abes Abdelmalek , Michael Andreas
Published: August 2024

Carbonate-based mineral dissolution and precipitation, driven by carbon dioxide (CO2) injection, introduces complexities to carbonate reservoir systems that trigger interactions different from those seen in traditional CO2-enhanced oil recovery (CO2-EOR) applications in siliciclastic/sandstone reservoirs. The thrust of this paper is to couple experimental (laboratory-scale) and numerical (computationally-assisted) analyses in order to assess how CO2-induced petrophysical alterations impact the resultant hydrocarbon recovery from CO2-EOR applications in carbonate reservoirs.

The Upper Red River Formation, located in North Dakota’s Cedar Creek Anticline (CCA) Field, presents significant remaining oil in place (OIP), albeit with a high water saturation from waterflood operations undergoing since the 1960s. The residual oil saturation (post-waterflooding) makes the Upper Red River Formation a good target for modern-day CO2-EOR technology. The first part of this study involves a core-scale investigation of dynamic-permeability variations triggered by the CO2 injection into three primary-productive zones, designated as “Red River Units” (RRU2, RRU4, and RRU6). The second part involves a compositional reservoir model used to perform numerical simulations of CO2 injection incorporating pre-established dynamic-permeability variations that honor the laboratory-obtained results.

Correlations between differential-pressure variations observed during carbonated brine (CO2/brine mixture) injection were assessed against pore volumes injected (PVI). These pressure fluctuations were induced by dynamic-permeability variations resulting from carbonate-based mineral dissolutions/precipitations. Baseline-permeability variations were established a priori using nitrogenated-brine (N2/brine) injection to correct for physicochemical effects from the brine. During CO2/brine injection, the recorded permeability increased significantly compared to its original value, peaking before sharply decreasing. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were utilized for deciphering the triggers of these dynamic-permeability variations, which revolve around mineral dissolutions and precipitations following the carbonate rock’s exposure to CO2.

The history-matched compositional reservoir model was used to project the incremental production from CO2-EOR through a section incorporating four existing wells, incorporating the laboratory-derived dynamic-permeability variations, yielding different results compared with “base case” simulations performed at constant permeability. Reduced reservoir permeability correlated with decreased oil recovery, emphasizing the significant impact of dynamic-permeability variations on CO2-EOR performance and hence the importance of their integration in fieldwide development analyses.
EMS-Resnet-DA Model With Perception Attention Mechanism for Effective Tissue Classification in Emphysema Diagnosis
Authors: T Manikandan , Ms Vishali
Published: August 2024

The diagnosis of emphysema is generally done by processing the anatomical data from conventional CT scan image patterns. Even though various analysis methods were in practice to diagnosis this chronic disease, the pattern classification techniques and modeling of emphysematous tissues from CT images were reported with effective results. Multiscale residual network with data augmentation model (MS-ResNet-DA) followed by enhanced MS-ResNet-DA (EMS-ResNet-DA) model classify the Emphysema much effectively but both the models fails in multiscale classification of CLE and PLE. To overcome the mentioned limitation of classifying CLE and PLE effectively the EMS-ResNet-DA model with Perception Attention Mechanism (PAM) is proposed in this study. Parallel CNN architecture with LSTM is utilized for feature extraction of images with detailed information. The Perception Attention Mechanism is used to merge the two proposed neural network topologies. The results obtained are compared with the previous methodologies and proved for its effectiveness.
Case study: the reliability of clustering solutions
Authors: Kadhim Mustafa , Lu Guangxi , Wang Jianbo , Kang Zhao , Tang Ruyi , Ye Songlin
Published: August 2024

Unsupervised clustering analysis (CA) models are crucial in various machine learning tasks aiming to discover the data structure and hidden patterns between samples. The performance of CA is affected by overlapping issue (samples that are similar to each other but do not belong to the same cluster). These samples may occur when the data grows over time, which causes the need to redefine features , the distance matrix, centroids, or other parameters. As recent CA models achieved optimal solutions, the details of parameters have been ignored due to the “no-free lunch” theory, which raises the question about their reliability. This study conducts an in-depth investigation of the complex relationships among the given issues, aiming to clarify the key problems associated with unsupervised models that may lead to inaccurate prediction of patterns, inappropriate partitioning , and false confidence in outcomes. We designed a novel experiment* that produced over 271 million possible settings based on various models, equations, and procedures. The experimental results* demonstrate that obtaining optimal parameters for optimal solutions is as challenging as finding a needle in a haystack. Finally, we designed an open issue* that challenges the CA models because our experiments raised doubts over the use of supervised information upfront to determine the optimal solutions, which is against the concept of CA.
Seasonal Hotspots of Beach Litter in the North-East Atlantic Linked to Aquaculture and River Runoff
Authors: Rieger Niclas , Olmedo Estrella , Thiel Martin , Salvo Vanessa Sarah , Honorato-Zimmer Daniela , Vásquez Nelson , Turiel Antonio , Piera Jaume
Published: August 2024

Anthropogenic beach litter presents a significant environmental challenge, particularly in the north-east Atlantic. Understanding temporal variations is crucial for identifying pollution sources and developing effective policies. However, in-situ data from beach surveys are irregular, both spatially and temporally, and subject to high variability, complicating robust statistical conclusions. This study employs a Bayesian machine learning framework to investigate seasonal variations, identify regional hotspots and elucidate their anthropogenic drivers. Using data from 3,866 surveys across 168 beaches, we leverage a spatial log-Gaussian Cox Process to enhance statistical inference by incorporating information from nearby beaches. Our analysis reveals distinct seasonal patterns, with winter and spring exhibiting the highest pollution levels. Significant regional variances are observed, with pronounced seasonal hotspots along the western Iberian Peninsula, French coastline, Irish Sea, and Skagerrak region. Further investigation into the sources of this litter links riverine emissions and aquaculture activities to the observed seasonal peaks, highlighting their notable impact on beach pollution. This study underscores the need for enhanced monitoring and targeted management strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of macroplastic pollution. Our findings advocate for seasonal monitoring to pinpoint and effectively manage litter hotspots, emphasizing the importance of addressing aquaculture-related plastic emissions.
First report of the occurrence of wireworm (Lanelater fuscipes) (Fabricius) as a pest in different field crops in India
Authors: T ANANDMURTHY , Tippannavar P. S. , Anandkumar V , Matti M. V. , Dileepkumar N. T , Divyashree H. J.
Published: August 2024

Wireworm belongs to the Coleoptera order in the family Elateridae and is primarily located in Northern Karnataka, India. Recently, this highly successful pest was observed infesting maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion crops, marking a new record of insect infestation. The pest causes damage to seeds, roots, stems, tubers and other plant parts by feeding, chewing or drilling into below-ground plant structures. This damage enhances secondary infections with plant diseases (bacteria or fungi), leading to plants that either fail to emerge or to produce good growth. The initial sighting of this insect occurred in various districts of Northern Karnataka, India. However, during a thorough two-year investigation from 2020 to 2021, it was found spreading to neighbouring areas. Consequently, without timely control measures, it poses a significant threat to various crops in Karnataka and adjoining areas. A survey was carried out in farmers' fields at regular intervals during crop growth. The host range and per cent incidence of wireworm were noted on various crops, including maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion. Relatively higher incidence was noticed in maize at the seedling stage, in groundnut at both the germination as well as pod-filling stages and in sugarcane at the germination stage. However, in ginger and onion, higher incidence was recorded during the vegetative stage. Irrespective of the crop, wireworm incidence ranged from 20.93 to 37.16 percent. Wireworm grubs were collected from fields and sent to the All India Network Project on Soil Arthropods, for identification. They were identified as Lanelater fuscipes.
Description of Encyonemataceae fam. nov. and Witkowskiaceae fam. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Cymbellales) based on molecular and morphological analyses
Authors: Mironov Andrei , Maltsev Yevhen , Kociolek John Patrick , Kulikovskiy Maxim
Published: August 2024

In this study, based on the results of molecular analysis of SSU rRNA and rbcL sequences, we propose the descriptions of two new families in the order Cymbellales. Molecular data demonstrates that diatoms of the genus Encyonema constitute an independent monophyletic clade, which represents a new family described herein – Encyonemataceae fam. nov. Another family introduced in this article, with regards to molecular data, is Witkowskiaceae fam. nov. In our research, it is comprised of three closely related genera – Geissleria, Paraplaconeis and Witkowskia. The results of performed molecular investigation are supported by morphological analysis. Morphological diagnoses of the new families are based on a combination of features: type of valve symmetry, raphe structure, presence and position of stigmata or stigmoids, number and location of apical pore fields and morphology of chloroplast. In addition, we discuss the phylogeny of selected genera of the order Cymbellales. In addition, based on their morphology, 3 and 5 genera are assigned with provisionary position in Encyonemataceae fam. nov. and Witkowskiaceae fam. nov., respectively.
Thangka Super-Resolution Diffusion Model Based on DCT-Upsample and High-Frequency Focused Attention
Authors: Chen Xin , Ji Liqi , Wang Zhen , Yang Yunbo , Zhang Xinyang , Wang Nianyi
Published: August 2024

Thangka is a traditional Tibetan painting art form, possessing profound cultural significance and a unique artistic style. Image super-resolution technology, as an effective means of digital preservation and restoration, plays an important role in maintaining the integrity and heritage of Thangka art. However, existing image super-resolution methods cannot be used for Thangka images due to the following reasons: (1) Thangka images are large in size and rich in content, making it difficult for existing models to restore the original textures of degraded Thangka images. (2) Thangka images have intricate textures, so the high-resolution Thangka images reconstructed by existing methods, which perform well on objective metrics, perform poorly in terms of human visual perception (HVP). To overcome these challenges, a Frequency-Domain Enhanced Diffusion Super-Resolution (FDEDiff) is proposed, consisting of three parts: (1) a High-Frequency Focused Cross Attention Mechanism (HFC-Attention), which can separate high-frequency features of images to guide the attention mechanism, improving the reconstruction quality of high-frequency details in the diffusion model; (2) a DCT Domain Padding Upsample (DCT-Upsample), which performs upsampling in the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) domain and improves the reconstruction of dense line areas in Thangka images by fully utilizing global information; (3) for the first time, we construct a Thangka image super-resolution dataset, which contains 82,688 pairs of 512 × 512 images. Qualitative and quantitative experiments demonstrate that the proposed method achieves satisfactory high-resolution reconstruction results on Thangka images. Dataset is available at https://github.com/cvlabdatasets/ThangkaDatasets.
The NADH dehydrogenase subunit Ⅳ resistance overexpression in Aedes albopictus causes fitness penalties associated with mitochondrial respiratory deficiency
Authors: Zhou Xiangrong , Ma Lulu , Jiang Dingxin
Published: August 2024

Our previous study has shown that the inheritance of dimefluthrin resistance in Ae. albopictus is codominant inherited completely maternally by reciprocal crosses. In this study, we found that NADH dehydrogenase subunit Ⅳ (ND4) gene was overexpressed in the resistant strain. Subsequently, when RNAi technology was used to suppress the ND4 gene expression in the resistant strain, the resistance of Ae. albopictus also decreased significantly. Meanwhile, it was found that the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex and Na+, K+-ATPase in the resistant strain were higher than in the susceptible strain, but the ATP content was lower. However, the activities of complex Ⅰ, V and Na+, K+-ATPase in the resistant strain decreased significantly after interference, while the ATP content increased significantly. Therefore, we demonstrated that ND4 gene was involved in the resistance of Ae. albopictus to dimefluthrin, and ND4 was related to the resistance by affecting the respiratory chain system. In addition, we evaluated the fitness cost of female mosquitoes of both strains and found that the resistant strain was diapause and shortened lifespan, and speculated the fitness cost of dimefluthrin-resistant Ae. albopictus was due to the uneven energy consumption in the body.
Evaluation of Titanium Dioxide/Catechol Polyurethane Composite for Antimicrobial Resistance, and Wastewater Treatment
Authors: El-Harairey Mona , Moawed Elhossein , Saad Hoda , Elafndi Rokaya , Eissa Mai , El-Zahed Mohamed , Sadda Rana El
Published: August 2024

In this study, a novel approach for the environmentally conscious extraction of titanium dioxide (TiO2) from ilmenite ore while limiting the environmental impact and enhancing the advantage from an economic process. Leaching conditions were tested with different acids for effective separation of the TiO2 and were optimized concerning different experimental parameters. TiO2 and TiO2NPs were characterized using with different tools. Catechol polyurethane foam immobilized with TiO2NPs (CAT-PUF/TiO2) was prepared and its antimicrobial action was tested against Gram-negative Bacterium E. coli, Gram-positive bacterium B. cereus, and fungus A. niger. CAT-PUF /TiO2 showed antimicrobial effect against E. coli, B. cereus, and A. niger with inhibition zones of 27 ± 0.14, 12 ± 0.14, and 22 ± 0.06 mm, respectively. Incorporating bioinformatics, this research contributes to the burgeoning field of nanotechnology-enabled antimicrobial materials, offering insights into the potential applications of CAT-PUF/TiO2 in combating microbial threats. Through bio-informatics tools, the potential toxicity of the synthesized nanoparticles was assessed, providing valuable insights into their safety profile and environmental impact. Furthermore, simulating the binding affinity between the nanoparticles and target biomolecules, such as cell membrane proteins or enzyme receptors, this aspect of the research sheds light on the mechanistic underpinnings of their antimicrobial efficacy.
Unrevealing the structure and properties of α-sheet-based bilayer borophenes
Authors: Rakshit Subrata , Szwacki Nevill Gonzalez
Published: August 2024

Recent experimental realizations of bilayer boron materials motivated us to study the structure and properties of α-sheet-based bilayer borophenes with interlayer covalent bonds. As shown here, at least three stacking variations are possible: AA, AB, and AB'. The on-top AA-stacking has been obtained experimentally. The AB-stacking is the most stable among neutral freestanding structures, whereas the AA and AB' stacking sequences are very close in energy, both for neutral and negatively charged cases. The studied bilayer borophenes exhibit extraordinarily high electric conductivity with values as high as ~107 S/m for the experimentally observed AA-stacking. The highly stable AB-stacking bilayer, reported here for the first time, exhibits an anisotropic conductivity with an average value of 6.0 x 106 S/m.