bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aegle Marmoles Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticle Loaded Hydrogel for Topical Application for Wound Dressing
Authors: P. Mohanapriya  , B. Harinipriya
Published: July 2023

Nanotechnology gain significance importance in various field such as medicine, electronic, waste treatment and defence sectors. The physical, chemical and biological methods of producing and usage of nanoparticles for different end economic cost of beneficial application brought wide interest on nanoparticles. Aegle marmelos commonly known as Bael is used in ancient Indian medicine siddha and Ayurveda from time immemorial. It also considered to be most sacred plant in India. Silver Nanoparticles were synthesized with the aid of novel, non-toxic, eco-friendly biological method using Aegle marmelos leaf extract. Silver nanoparticles used in medicinal industry such as topical ointment to prevent infection against burns and wounds. Hydrogel loaded with metal nanoparticle have great importance for many applications in the biomedical and biotechnological field. In the present study, the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles-based hydrogel of Maha vilvam (Aegle marmelos) extract for topical delivery. The usage of Aegle marmelos in the form of hydrogel with nanoparticle has extended its well-established application in the field of wound healing, tissue engineering and drug delivery. Further, the characterization study was carried out on biosynthesised silver nanoparticle loaded hydrogel by using UV-Visible spectrophotometer, Fourier Transform –Infrared Spectroscopy and SEM analysis. The antimicrobial resistance was accessed for the biosynthesised silver nanoparticle loaded hydrogel against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, zone of inhibition was measured.
Discovery of Two Aleocharine Staphylinid Species (Coleoptera) Associated with Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) from Central Japan, with a Review of the Possible Natural Distribution of C. formosanus in Japan and Surrounding Countries
Authors: Iwata Ryutaro
Published: July 2023

Two termitophilous staphylinid beetles, Japanophilus hojoi Maruyama & Iwata and Sinophilus yukoae Maruyama & Iwata (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) are known to inhabit nests of a termite species, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Rhinotermitidae). Previously, these beetles had only been collected from C. formosanus nests in the Nansei Archipelago, between Kyushu and Taiwan. Here, were report their existence in nests in the coastal regions of Wakayama Prefecture, Central Japan. A review of published records strongly supports the hypothesis that Nansei Archipelago, Kyushu and the coastal areas of Kii Peninsular of Honshu, constitute, at least, part of the natural geographic range of C. formosanus.
Four New Species of the Amblyoponine Ant Genus Amblyopone (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Southwestern China with a Key to the Known Asian Species
Authors: Xu Zheng-Hui
Published: July 2023

Four new species of the amblyoponine ant genus Amblyopone Erichson, 1842 collected from southwestern China are described, i.e. A. kangba sp. nov., A. zoma sp. nov., A. meiliana sp. nov., and A. awa sp. nov. The queen caste of A. awa sp. nov. is reported. Measurements are supplemented to A. octodentata Xu based on the newly collected specimens. A key to the 29 known Asian species of the genus is provided based on the worker caste. Illustrations are provided for each species except for A. quadrata (Karavaiev).
Natural Biological Control of Lepidopteran Pests by Ants
Authors: Picanço Marcelo Coutinho
Published: July 2023

The predatory ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidade) are social insects and important natural enemies of pests in agroecosystems. Despite the importance of these predators, little is known about their role, especially in tropical regions. Among the major Lepidopteran pests of vegetables are Ascia monuste (Pieridae), Diaphania nitidalis (Crambidae), Neoleucinodes elegantalis (Crambidae) and Tuta absoluta (Gelechiidae). Thus, this work aimed to study the natural biological control of A. monuste, D. nitidalis, N. elegantalis and T. absoluta by ants. For this, we evaluated the natural biological control of A. monuste on kale and D. nitidalis on cucumber both species in the dry season. Whilst the natural biological control of N. elegantalis and T. absoluta on tomato plants were evaluated in the rainy and dry seasons. Ants preyed on Lepidoptera in the pupa stadium. They also preyed on eggs of D. nitidalis. The activity of predatory ants occurred mainly during the night. The ants were the main causes of pupae mortality of A. monuste, D. nitidalis and T. absoluta. Beyond the ants, the physiological disturbances and birds were also important factors of pupae mortality of N. elegantalis. The ants Labidus coecus and Solenopsis sp. were observed preying on pupae whereas the Paratrechina sp. was observed preying eggs of D. nitidalis. The pupae mortality of D. nitidalis and T. absoluta by ants were higher than the pupae mortality of N. elegantalis and A. monuste. The rate of pupae predation of N. elegantalis by ants was similar in rainy and dry seasons and the same occurred with T. absoluta.
Botanical Origin of Protein Sources Used by Honeybees (Apis mellifera) in an Atlantic Forest
Authors: Silveira Talita Antonia
Published: July 2023

Productive and reproductive traits of beehives are influenced by climate and food availability in the region where the bees are reared or maintained, thus honey and pollen storage, egg-laying conditions of the queen as well as comb occupation are subject to seasonal variations. The present study was conducted in the apiary of the Department of Entomology and Acarology, College of Agriculture Luiz de Queiróz, ESALQ/USP, in the municipality of Piracicaba, in an area containing fruit trees, ornamental plants and a fragment of a native forest. The objective was to identify protein sources used by honeybees (Apis mellifera) over a whole year (2010-2011) in remnants of the Atlantic forest, information that can be used in the conservation and restoration of degraded areas. For sample preparation, the acetolysis method was adopted (Eredtman 1952) and the quantitative analysis was performed by counting successive samples of 900 grains per sample which were grouped by botanical species and/or pollen types. The results show that the bees used various plant types in the area, including ruderal species, to maintain their colonies. Apis mellifera seeks food sources in all plants in the surroundings of the apiary, including herbaceous, shrubs, trees, native or introduced. Eucalyptus sp. played an important role as a food source in all seasons due to its wide availability around the apiary and its high flower production. The most frequent pollen types (greater than 10% of the sample) were Anadenanthera sp., Acacia sp, Miconia sp. and Eucalyptus sp. in winter; Philodendron sp., Mikania cordifolia, Parthenium and Eucalyptus sp. in spring; Alternanthera ficoidea, Chamissoa altissima and Eucalyptus sp. In summer; Philodendron sp., Raphanus sp. and Eucalyptus sp. in autumn.
Plants Used by Bees as Pollen Sources in the Brazilian “Cerrado”
Authors: Marchini Luis Carlos
Published: July 2023

Bee flora is the set of plants that supply food to bees in a given region. The recognition of the plants used by bees for the collection of pollen in order to enable adequate handling by the beekeeper and the improvement of the bee pasture are considered of great importance for a good beekeeping. Some bee pollen samples were obtained monthly during one year from pollen collectors installed in five beehives in two different areas (“cerradão” and “cerrado” sensu stricto) in Pirassununga, SP, Brazil. It was noted that species of the Asteraceae family were intensely visited by the Apis mellifera bees, indicating the importance of them for an eventual bee flora recomposition. Alternativelly bees visited nearby areas, using mainly Eucalyptus sp. and Citrus sp. for the collection of pollen.
Optical beam scanner with reconfigurable non-mechanical control of beam position, angle, and focus for low-cost whole-eye OCT imaging
Authors: Urizar María Pilar , Gambra Enrique , de Castro Alberto , de la Peña Álvaro , Cetinkaya Onur , Marcos Susana , Curatolo Andrea
Published: July 2023

Whole-eye optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging is a promising tool in ocular biometry for cataract surgery planning, glaucoma diagnostics and myopia progression studies. However, conventional OCT systems are set up to perform either anterior or posterior eye segment scans and cannot easily switch between the two scan configurations without adding or exchanging optical components to account for the refraction of the eye’s optics. Even in state-of-the-art whole-eye OCT systems, the scan configurations are pre-selected and cannot be dynamically reconfigured. In this work, we present the design, optimization and experimental validation of a reconfigurable and low-cost optical beam scanner based on three electro-tunable lenses, capable of non-mechanically controlling the beam position, angle and focus. We derive the analytical theory behind its control. We demonstrate its use in performing alternate anterior and posterior segment imaging by seamlessly switching between a telecentric focused beam scan to an angular collimated beam scan. We characterize the corresponding beam profiles and record whole-eye OCT images in a model eye and in an ex vivo rabbit eye, observing features comparable to those obtained with conventional anterior and posterior OCT scanners. The proposed beam scanner reduces the complexity and cost of other whole-eye scanners and is well suited for 2-D ocular biometry. Additionally, with the added versatility of seamless scan reconfiguration, its use can be easily expanded to other ophthalmic applications and beyond.
Plasmon tuning in ultra-thin titanium nitride films
Authors: Islam Md. Shariful , Zubair Ahmed
Published: July 2023

We investigated theoretically the scopes and variables of plasmonic property tuning for ultra-thin films consisting of alternative plasmonic materials. The extension of Mie theory suggests a great dependency of particle shape on localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) frequency. This work focuses on the LSPR tuning potentials of alternate plasmonic materials. Moreover, the carrier concentration via external biasing directly controls the permittivity profile resulting in the shift of plasmonic resonance. Here, we reported LSPR tuning possibilities by alternative plasmonic materials, titanium nitride (TiN). A comparative analysis of transmission and absorption property dependency of Au and TiN-based nanostructures was presented. Moreover, the effect of nanostructure shape and size, charge density, and incident light polarization was simulated in this work. Most importantly, around 30% of transmittance modulation was observed by varying the carrier concentration, which will illustrate the major determinants and scopes for further study. Moreover, our results extracted from rigorous simulation will be beneficial in incorporating TiN in widespread plasmonic applications such as electro-optic modulation and detection.
Research on optical fiber SPR sensing characteristics of surface-enhanced fluorescence
Authors: Zhao jingtao , ZhenXing Zhang , Kong Mei , Zhang Rong
Published: July 2023

An optical fiber-type fluorescence sensor based on surface-enhanced fluorescence (SEF) is proposed and analyzed through the finite element method. The field enhancement property of the designed multimode SPR fiber is utilized to improve the excitation rate of fluorescent molecules, which improves the sensitivity of fluorescence detection. Because the gold film is too close to fluorescent biomolecules, which can lead to fluorescence quenching, an optically transparent layer is added between the surface of the gold nanofilm and fluorescent biomolecules. And then analyze the layer's material and thickness parameters. When the gold film and PDMS thicknesses are 50 nm and 60 nm, the field enhancement factor (T) reaches the maximum value of 9.45. This fluorescence enhancement method provides a design possibility for improving the fluorescence detection sensitivity.
Generation of synthetic FLAIR MRI image from real CT image for accurate synovial fluid segmentation in human knee image
Authors: Abu-Qasmieh Isam F. , Masad Ihssan S. , Alquran Hiam , Alawneh Khaled Z.
Published: July 2023

Synthetic MRI FLAIR images of an abdominal 3D multimodality phantom and in vivo human knee have been generated from real CT images using predefined mapping functions of CT mean and standard deviation with the corresponding proton density PD, T1 and T2 that were previously generated from spin-echo sequence. First, the validity of generating synthetic MR images from different sequences were tested and the same PD, T1 and T2 maps that were generated from the real CT image have been used in the simulation of MRI inversion-recovery (IR) sequence. The similarity results between the real and synthetic IR sequence images, using different inversion times TI, showed a very good agreement. After confirming the feasibility of generating synthetic IR images from the PD, T1 and T2-maps, that were originally obtained from spin-echo sequence using the phantom, the simulation of a knee image has been generated from the corresponding knee CT real image using the steady-state transverse magnetization formula of the inversion-recovery sequence. The simulated FLAIR IR sequence MR image are generated using proper TI for nulling the signal from the synovial fluid, where the image complement is used as a mask for segmenting the corresponding tissue region in the real CT image.
Biogeografía de islas de los relictos de bosque seco del valle geográfico del río Cauca (Colombia)
Authors: Soto Medina Edier , Jiménez Ángela , Zuluaga Alejandro
Published: July 2023

Este estudio analizó las relaciones entre la riqueza de especies-área y la diversidad filogenética-área en la flora relictual del bosque seco tropical en el valle del río Cauca en Colombia, utilizando un listado de especies de 38 relictos de bosque seco. Se encontró que la riqueza de plantas se ajusta al modelo relación especies-área (SAR), aunque con pendientes más pronunciadas que las islas de hábitat, y que la dispersión de las especies afectó el modelo SAR. Además, las comunidades de plantas presentaron un patrón de anidamiento. El clima no influyó en la riqueza de plantas, pero sí en la composición de especies. La diversidad filogenética no estuvo relacionada con el área, pero se incrementó el agrupamiento filogenético con la misma. En conclusión, la limitación en la dispersión es el factor que estructura la riqueza de plantas en los relictos del bosque seco tropical.
Influencia de rasgos funcionales en la deposición de ortofosfatos en paisajes interandinos modificados en Colombia
Authors: Vásquez  Sogamoso Santiago , Quintero Kelly Leani , Arroyave-Rojas Joan Amir , Cañola Hernan Darío
Published: July 2023

Los ecosistemas tropicales tienen altas limitaciones en la disponibilidad natural de fósforo en el suelo, condición que se intensifica con su pérdida y fragmentación. En paisajes modificados, la relación entre árboles aislados y la precipitación puede representar una entrada de PO₄-P al suelo. Este estudio realiza mediciones sobre 16 individuos de 4 especies de árboles aislados: Cariniana pyriformis, Cedrela odorata, Luehea seemannii y Nectandra reticulata. Se evaluaron 9 rasgos funcionales en cada individuo y las concentraciones de PO₄-P en los flujos de partición de la precipitación. Se encontró una mayor deposición de PO₄-P en individuos de N. reticulata y L. seemannii, que presentaron una configuración específica de rasgos funcionales, i.e., una mayor área foliar, una mayor cobertura de epífitas y un mayor porcentaje en densidad de copa. Estos resultados resaltan el papel de estos rasgos funcionales en el mejoramiento de las condiciones biogeoquímicas del suelo en paisajes modificados.
Reproductive phenology of timber tree species in the Yungas Piedmont Forest of Argentina
Authors: Benavidez Analía , Tallei Ever , Schaaf Alejandro
Published: July 2023

The tree reproductive phenology in the seasonal neotropical forest is driven by many abiotic and biotic factors and provides information to understand the biological processes of ecosystems. The Yungas Piedmont Forest in Argentina is one of the areas with the greatest biodiversity and timber resources in the country. However, limited knowledge of the reproductive phenology of these species has resulted in inadequate management plans and protocols. In this study, we observed the reproductive phenology of eight timber tree species in the Yungas Piedmont Forest over a two-year period and evaluated the relationship between local climatic conditions (temperature, precipitation, and photoperiod) and reproductive phenology. In the Yungas Piedmont forest, the reproductive phenology of timber tree species presented intermediate intensity, and short duration. The reproductive phenology of each species was seasonal and mainly modulated by photoperiod. Concerning the timing of each phenophase, we found interspecific variation in reproductive phenological strategies. Flowering occurred mainly during the late dry season up to early wet season and fruiting had two annual intensity peaks, one per season. This study provides valuable information on the phenological patterns of economically important tree species in the Andean Forest, and it is essential for underpinning conservation and restoration actions in the Yungas forests.
Reliability of the saliva self-sampling with and without supervision
Authors: Jaklová Dytrtová Jana , Dytrtová Radmila , Kovač Ishak , Šteffl Michal , Jakl Michal
Published: July 2023

One of the least invasive sampling methods suitable for self-sampling is saliva spitting. The aim of this study is to evaluate the suitability of saliva self-sampling for unsupervised testing. Two self-sampling strategies were compared on the basis of visual evaluation of samples, measurement of cortisol levels in samples and questionnaire survey. The saliva samples obtained by supervised self-sampling were found to be fully suitable for further analysis. In contrast, not all saliva samples obtained from unsupervised self-collection can be used: 13% non-compliance with the minimum required sample volume, 8% with some food/drink residues and 26% taken at the wrong day time. About 42% of the unsupervised probands made at least one significant error in the saliva self-collection procedure. These results indicate that the accuracy of the results based on the analysis of samples received from saliva self-sampling is limited. For clinical investigation, the presence of an inner standard (referring to the reliability of the sampling procedure) is required.
Serum sPD-L1 levels are elevated in patients with viral diseases, bacterial sepsis or in patients with impaired renal function compared to healthy blood donors
Authors: Loacker Lorin , Egger Alexander , Fux Vilmos , Bellmann-Weiler Rosa , Weiss Günter , Griesmacher Andrea , Hoermann Gregor , Ratzinger Franz , Haslacher Helmuth , Schrezenmeier Hubert , Anliker Markus
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Immune checkpoints play an important role in maintaining the balance of the immune system and in the development of autoimmune diseases. A central checkpoint molecule is the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1, CD279) which is typically located on the surface of T cells. Its primary ligand PD-L1 is expressed on antigen presenting cells and on cancer cells. Several variants of PD-L1 exist, among these soluble molecules (sPD-L1) present in serum at low concentrations. sPD-L1 was found elevated in cancer and several other diseases. sPD-L1 in infectious diseases has received relatively little attention so far and is therefore subject of this study.

Methods

sPD-L1 serum levels were determined in 170 patients with viral infections (influenza, varicella, measles, Dengue fever, SARS-CoV2) or bacterial sepsis by ELISA and compared to the levels obtained in 11 healthy controls.

Results

Patients with viral infections and bacterial sepsis generally show significantly higher sPD-L1 serum levels compared to healthy donors, except for varicella samples where results do not reach significance. sPD-L1 is increased in patients with impaired renal function compared to those with normal renal function, and sPD-L1 correlates significantly with serum creatinine. Among sepsis patients with normal renal function, sPD-L1 serum levels are significantly higher in Gram-negative sepsis compared to Gram-positive sepsis. In addition, in sepsis patients with impaired renal function, sPD-L1 correlates positively with ferritin and negatively with transferrin.

Conclusions

sPD-L1 serum levels are significantly elevated in patients with sepsis, influenza, mesasles, Dengue fever or SARS-CoV2. Highest levels are detectable in patients with measles and Dengue fever. Also impaired renal function causes an increase in levels of sPD-L1. As a consequence, renal function has to be taken into account in the interpretation of sPD-L1 levels in patients.
The role of acid–base interactions in the pitting corrosion of aluminum: a review
Authors: Petrunin Maxim Andreevich , Maksaeva Liudmila Borisovna , Yurasova Tatyana Aleksandrovna
Published: July 2023

The review describes an electrode kinetic model of aluminum pitting nucleation taking into account the charge of the metal surface, the adsorption of chloride ions on the oxide surface, their penetration through the oxide film with the help of oxygen vacancies, and the dissolution of the underlying substrate with the initiation of pitting corrosion at the metal/oxide interface. It is shown that the critical pitting potential is a function of the potential of a thin layer of aluminum surface covered by oxide and the value of the pitting potential of a binary surface alloying is related to the isoelectric point of the alloying element oxide in the binary alloy. An electrode kinetic model of pitting initiation is described, which was used to explain the effect of surface alloying on the pitting initiation on binary alloys. A method for changing the surface charge by forming foreign surface organosilicon nanolayers bearing both negatively and positively charged groups was proposed. It has been established that four characteristics (q, Ψ
1-potential, E
pit and the tendency of aluminum to depassivate) depend on the nature of ion-exchange groups, the degree of their acid dissociation, and the ion-chemical interaction with activator ions.
Structural behavior of concrete filled double-skin PVC tubular columns confined by plain PVC sockets
Authors: Abbas Jinan Laftah
Published: July 2023

The behavior of concrete-filled double-skin poly vinyl chloride (PVC) tubular columns confined by plain PVC sockets is studied in this research. The plastic pipes have been used with concrete as columns. PVC has several advantages as it is inexpensive, light weight for construction, and decrease in the time taken for construction. Thus it can be used as an alternative to metal in various applications in which the maintenance cost is increased and the corrosion is reduced. This study is an experimental work on four groups of composite hollow PVC columns, each group containing three different samples. The effects of several parameters are studied, including slenderness ratio, compactness ratio, compressive strength, and confinement ratio. The experimental results show that stiffness, strength, as well as the ductility of composite columns of different loadings were considerably influenced by all these parameters. An increase in loading carrying capacity by about 40.4% was noticed as slenderness ratio decreased from 20 to 12 and about 21.1% as compactness ratio decreased from 50 to 25. Besides, the rate of increase in load capacity was about 96.6% as compressive strength increased from 33 to 54 MPa. For the case of variation of confinement ratio from 25 to 75%, the increase in the axial load capacity was about 56.7%. The main benefit of this type of column is the interaction between PVC tube and concrete. Besides, restriction of concrete by tube results in the delay of local buckling so that the concrete strength is enlarged by the effect of confining provided by the tube.
社区词、 方言词、 通用词及对华语词汇研究的启示
Authors: 苏 新春
Published: July 2023

提要

本文回顾了 “社区词” 在新词语的讨论中被提出、 首次收入语言学术语词典、 首次作为博士学位论文专题研究对象的发展历史, 讨论了社区词与通用词、 方言词及新词语的区别, 阐释了社区词与华语词汇研究的关联性, 并结合华语研究的背景指出了社区词理论研究的重要学术价值。
2022 年度华语研究综述
Authors: 卢 月丽
Published: July 2023

提要

本文立足于 2022 年度， 对华语研究成果进行总结和分析， 可以发现： 与以往研究相比， 研究观念有所更新、研究理论有所深化以及研究层次有所提升。 具体表现在以下几个方面： 其一， 华语本体研究的深度和广度都有所拓展， 一些学者对华语本体研究模式进行了梳理和总结， 并借助语言事实进行验证。 其二， 在应用层面， “三教” 问题得到持续关注， 积累了不少研究成果; 华语规划方面积累了一些成功经验， 并加以推广。 其三， 研究较为薄弱的华语理论建构与实证研究、华语语料库建设与应用有了新的突破， 前者主要表现为通过对华语事实的考察， 形成了一些新的认识; 后者主要表现在华语历时语料库的建设与应用， 即对百年南洋华语资源进行了数字化保存和研究。
他山之石, 可以攻玉――周清海《华语教学语法》札记
Authors: 晏斌 刁
Published: July 2023

This paper combs and introduces the contents and characteristics of “Huayu Teaching Grammar (Revised)” by Professor Chew Cheng Hai from two aspects: teaching and research. While meeting the teaching requirements, this book highlights the following three points: first, based on Chinese, integrating the commonness and individuality; second, based on phenomena and problems, providing new contents; third, based on teaching, meeting multidimensional needs. The prominent research of this book not only targeted at ordinary learners, but also linguistic researchers. As “a stone from another hill”, this book not only provides a successful example and model of great referential value for the compilation of Chinese textbooks, but also inspires people to draw inferences about other cases from one instance and carry out more exploration and practice.
港式中文研究综述
Authors: 纹 任
Published: July 2023

提要

本文对近三十余年研究港式中文的文献进行了梳理, 发现 “港式中文” 这一概念的使用趋于广泛化, 其成果主要集中在共时层面与标准中文的比较上, 且多从英语、 粤语、 古代汉语等角度进行探因, 路径呈现模式化。标准中文融合到港式中文以及考察二者之间的 “隐性差异” 成为新趋势。不过, 现有研究较少涉及到港式中文公务领域和 “历时” 层面的考察。由此, 文章对港式中文的未来走势提出了一些建议。
Knockdown of circ_0113656 assuages oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced vascular smooth muscle cell injury through the miR-188-3p/IGF2 pathway
Authors: Yang Ming , Luo Jun , Zhang Shuhua , Huang Qing , Cao Qianqiang
Published: July 2023

Circular RNA (circRNA) is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS). The present work analyzed the RNA expression of circ_0113656, microRNA-188-3p (miR-188-3p), and insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), matrix metalloprotein 2 (MMP2), and IGF2 was detected by Western blotting. Cell viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration were analyzed using the cell counting kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine, transwell invasion, and wound-healing assays, respectively. The interactions among circ_0113656, miR-188-3p, and IGF2 were identified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The results showed that circ_0113656 and IGF2 expression were significantly upregulated, while miR-188-3p was downregulated in the blood of AS patients and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-treated HVSMCs in comparison with controls. The ox-LDL treatment induced HVSMC proliferation, migration, and invasion accompanied by increases in PCNA and MMP2 expression; however, these effects were attenuated after circ_0113656 knockdown. Circ_0113656 acted as a miR-188-3p sponge and it regulated ox-LDL-induced HVSMC disorders by binding to miR-188-3p. Besides, the regulation of miR-188-3p in ox-LDL-induced HVSMC injury involved IGF2. Further, the depletion of circ_0113656 inhibited IGF2 expression by interacting with miR-188-3p. Thus, the circ_0113656/miR-188-3p/IGF2 axis may mediate ox-LDL-induced HVSMC disorders in AS, providing a new therapeutic strategy for AS.
Optimization of cutting parameters by thrust force and time for drilling of aluminum 2024 T351
Authors: Turgut Yunus Zubeyir , Ozsoy Murat
Published: July 2023

In this study, the cutting parameters were optimized according to the thrust force and operation time in the drilling of Al 2024 T351 alloy, which is preferred in the aerospace industry and therefore subjected to thousands of drilling processes with liquid cooling. Cutting speed (70, 90, and 110 m min−1) and feed rate (0.08, 0.1, and 0.12 mm tooth−1) were considered cutting parameters. Experiments were performed three tool types (HSS, HSSE-Co5, HSSE-Co5 TiAlN coated). Taksan TMC-700 V CNC vertical machining center with FANUC control panel was used for drilling, and ESIT AX3 load cell and NI cDAQ-9188, data acquisition system, were used for data collection. Signal noise was reduced by applying the exponential smoothing method to all force data obtained in the experiments. The maximum forces in the machining direction (z-axis) were determined for each hole. The time was calculated during the computer aided manufacturing process. Response surface optimizations, variance analyses (ANOVA), and regression analyses were performed using these determined maximum thrust forces and measured time.
Crystal structure of 2-[(4-bromobenzyl)thio]-5-(5-bromothiophen-2-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole, C13H8Br2N2OS2
Authors: Al-Omary Fatmah A. M. , Blacque Olivier , Alanazi Fahdah S. , Tiekink Edward R. T. , El-Emam Ali A.
Published: July 2023

C13H8Br2N2OS2, monoclinic, Pc (no. 7), a = 13.4050(4) Å, b = 4.7716(1) Å, c = 11.7303(4) Å, β = 

105.885

(
3
)

∘

$105.885{(3)}^{\circ }$

, V = 721.66(4) Å3, Z = 2,

R

g
t

${R}_{gt}$

(F) = 0.0294,

w

R

r
e
f

$w{R}_{ref}$

(F
2 = 0.0808, T = 160 K.
Significance of heat and mass transport in peristaltic flow of Jeffrey material subject to chemical reaction and radiation phenomenon through a tapered channel
Authors: Ravikumar Seelam , Ijaz Khan Muhammad , AlQahtani Salman A. , Eldin Sayed M.
Published: July 2023

Using mathematical modeling and computational analysis, this study aims to examine the peristaltic blood flow of a non-Newtonian material in a tapered channel with radiative heat flux and response mechanisms. By utilizing a long-wavelength approximation, ignoring the wave number, and performing under conditions of low Reynolds number, closed form solutions for the velocity, temperature, and concentration fields are achieved. Several governing parameters and their effects on the system were analyzed, and relevant diagrams were provided. Increasing the Biot number, Jeffrey material, and thermal radiation parameter of the heat and mass transfer mechanism increases the velocity profile. When the heat source/sink parameter and the heat transfer Biot number increase, the temperature profile improves. The resultant concentration distributions are enhanced when mass transfer Biot number, heat radiation, and chemical processes are all raised. We observe that the pressure rate decreases in all three pumping zones when the heat transfer Grashof number and heat transfer Biot number rise. This is because the pressure rate is affected by the Grashof number and Biot number of heat transmission. The increase in thermal radiation parameter and heat transfer Biot number results in a slower rate of heat transfer than when Prandtl number and heat source/sink parameter increases. When the Soret number, Schmidt number, Biot number, and heat source/sink parameter are all raised, the mass transfer coefficient also rises. This rate, however, decreases as the heat radiation and chemical reaction parameters rise. The findings presented in this study have interesting implications for other aspects of human physiology. The preponderance of organs are permeable. Furthermore, fluids render the location of natural boundaries uncertain. The presented mathematical model can be used to derive predictions about the behavior of various systems. For the study of cancer treatment in biological systems, a mathematical model that includes nanoparticles, viscosity dissipation, and rotation holds much promise. Model development incorporated Soret–Dufour effects and thermal analysis of the digestive system.
A feasibility trial of online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for women with provoked vestibulodynia
Authors: Maathz Pernilla , McCracken Lance M. , Eriksson Viktor , Säde Fredrika , Aneblom Gunilla , Rikner Åsa , Skalkidou Alkistis , Buhrman Monica
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an established treatment for chronic pain. However, it is a form of treatment that have not yet been applied much in the treatment of persistent vulvar pain disorders. This study examines the feasibility and preliminary effects of online ACT for patients with provoked vestibulodynia.

Methods

Women diagnosed with provoked vestibulodynia were assigned randomly either to online ACT or to a waitlist control group. Feasibility was assessed in terms of recruitment potential, treatment credibility, completions rates, retention in trial, and data quality. Participants completed measures of pain with sexual activity, sexual functioning, emotional and relational adjustment, and potential treatment processes before and after treatment.

Results

Of the 111 women who were invited to participate in the study, 44 were included (39.6 % recruitment rate). Thirty seven participants (84.1 %) completed the pre-treatment assessment. Participants who received online ACT rated treatment credibility positively, and completed on average 4.31 (SD=1.60) of the six treatment modules. Of participants, 34 provided post treatment data, giving a trial retention rate of 77 %. Effects of online ACT, as compared to waitlist, were large for pain acceptance and quality of life, medium for anxiety and pain catastrophizing, and small for sexual satisfaction, pain with sexual activity, and relationship adjustment.

Conclusions

With some adjustments to recruitment procedures, a full scale randomized controlled trial of online ACT for provoked vestibulodynia appears feasible.
Design of blood plasma concentrations sensor based on a one-dimensional photonic crystal
Authors: Segovia-Chaves Francis , Beltrán Santiago Santos , Vinck-Posada Herbert
Published: July 2023

This study uses the transfer matrix method to calculate the transmittance spectrum of a one-dimensional photonic crystal (1D-PC). Herein, the crystal is composed of alternating layers of barium titanate ferroelectric and yttrium oxide dielectric. The spatial periodicity of the 1D-PC is broken by a cavity surrounded by thin layers of a critical high-temperature superconductor, which can be used to detect refractive index changes of plasma cells infiltrated into the cavity. The results reflect the existence of a maximum transmittance peak in the telecom region known as a localized mode within the photonic band gap. This study reveals that the localized mode shifts toward longer wavelengths as the operating temperature of the superconductor increases. Additionally, we calculate the sensitivity and quality factor of the localized mode, thereby finding that these quantities increase as the incidence angle increases. The proposed model works in cryogenic temperature environments and may be integrated into biosensor designs.
GO-Ag-NPs as a promising agent for biomedical, catalytic, electrochemical detection and water treatment technologies; a comprehensive review
Authors: Nadeem Hafiz Amir , Imran Muhammad , Saleem Seerat , Rafiq Zahra , Batool Ammarah , Mehmood Kashif , Pervaiz Muhammad , Hussain Shah , Saeed Zohaib , Younas Umer
Published: July 2023

This comprehensive review article discusses the potential applications of graphene oxide-silver nanoparticles (GO-Ag NPs) in various fields, including biomedical, catalytic, electrochemical detection, and wastewater treatment technologies. GO-Ag NPs have gained significant attention due to their unique properties, such as excellent electrical, mechanical, and thermal conductivity, as well as their protective capabilities. The review summarizes the different starting materials and reducing agents that have been used to produce GO-Ag NPs with particle sizes ranging from 2 to 90 nm. Furthermore, the article highlights the various applications of GO-Ag NPs, such as their use in drug delivery, bioimaging, and cancer therapy. Additionally, the review discusses the potential of GO-Ag NPs in catalysis, electrochemical detection, and wastewater treatment. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the potential uses of GO-Ag NPs and emphasizes the need for further research to develop more straightforward methods for their production and application.
Wpływ pandemii COVID-19 na demografię i rynek pracy krajów europy środkowo‑wschodniej
Authors:   Filia Uniwersytetu w Białymstoku w Wilnie, Wołkonowski Jarosław
Published: July 2023

Purpose – An attempt to assess the impact of the COVID‑19 pandemic on the demographic situation and labor markets of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Research method – To assess the demographic implications and changes in the labor market, the comparative method of linear regression was used for the periods of 2011–2019 and 2011–2021. Population, birth and death rates, net migration, general demographic index, employment rate, unemployment rate and job vacancy rate were examined. Results – The COVID‑19 pandemic had a negative impact on the surveyed demographic and labor market indicators and disrupted their positive trends. The collapse of trends had the characteristics of a negative economic shock. Originality / value / implications / recommendations – Preliminary research analyses indicate the negative consequences of the COVID‑19 pandemic on the demographic processes of the CEE countries and the labor market. These studies should be continued during and after the infection subsides, which will allow for a better understanding of the processes taking place in both studied areas.
Music as A Therapeutic Medium at Kyai Ageng Majapahit Semarang Orphanage Foundation
Authors: Fahruddin Muhammad Ilham , Sunarto Sunarto
Published: July 2023

Music plays several significant roles in life, one of which is as a medium for healing and therapy. The objective of this study was to identify and describe the utilization of music as a therapeutic medium at the Kyai Ageng Majapahit Orphanage Foundation in Semarang. The use of music as a therapeutic medium at the Kyai Ageng Majapahit Orphanage Foundation in Semarang is evident in terms of the musical form and the application process. This study employed qualitative descriptive method. The data collection techniques included observation, interviews, and documentation. The data analysis used interactive model, and data validity was ensured through triangulation of data, sources, and time. The findings reveal that the form of music employed in music therapy activities at the Kyai Ageng Majapahit Orphanage Foundation in Semarang involves the use of tambourine musical instrument. The process of music therapy itself takes place in the school building's hall owned by the Kyai Ageng Majapahit Orphanage Foundation in Semarang, and employs specific methods and considers various crucial aspects throughout the music therapy process. The objective of music therapy activities utilizing tambourine is not only entertainment but also serves as a relaxation therapy medium for foster children, particularly those with anxiety disorders.
Educational Ideology in Character Building Through National Songs at Anak Soleh Mandiri Integrated Islamic Elementary School Banjarmasin
Authors: Maryanto Maryanto , Suharto Suharto
Published: July 2023

This research was conducted at Anak Soleh Mandiri Integrated Islamic Elementary School Banjarmasin. The aim of this research is to discover the instilling of students’ character values through national songs and applied educational ideology. Educational ideology may affect the ongoing educational process, so it eventually affects the educational outcomes. This research is based on the reality of public elementary schools and integrated Islamic elementary schools in instilling students’a character values through national songs, using different methods, techniques, and ideologies. It influences the choice of educational ideology applied in the school. This research is qualitative research since it describes the problem in a descriptive narrative. The data collection utilized the techniques of observation, interview, and documentation. The data analysis process was carried out using qualitative analysis, and triangulation is used to check the validity of the data. The results of the research are: (1) The characters instilled at Anak Soleh Mandiri Integrated Islamic Elementary School Banjarmasin through national songs include religious, honest, tolerant, disciplined, hard work, creative, independent, democratic, curiosity, nationalistic, patriotic, appreciating achievement, friendly, communicative, peace-loving, fond of reading, caring for the environment, caring for others, and responsible. (2) The educational ideology used in instilling the students’ character values at Anak Soleh Mandiri Integrated Islamic Elementary School Banjarmasin is conservatism.
Correlation Between Mastery of Music Theory, Solfegio, and Profiency in Playing Primary Music Insrument at The Intermediate Level in Music Program, Universitas Negeri Surabaya
Authors: Dewi Vivi Ervina
Published: July 2023

This research aimed to determine whether there is a significant correlation between mastery of music theory, solfeggio, and skills in playing primary music instruments at the intermediate level in the Music Arts Study Program at the State University of Surabaya. The research employed quantitative method with correlational research design. Pearson product-moment correlation analysis was used as the correlational research technique. The prerequisite test indicated that the data followed a normal distribution and that the independent variable and the dependent variable exhibited a linear or symmetrical relationship. The research results revealed a very strong relationship, as evidenced by a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.893** and 0.891**. The two-star sign (**) in the results indicates a significant correlation with a significance value of 0.000 and a two-tailed possibility. The positive correlation coefficient indicates a unidirectional relationship between the variables. Thus, the research results show a significant relationship between mastery of music theory, solfeggio, and intermediate level playing skills on primary music instruments in the Music Arts Study Program at State University of Surabaya. This conclusion is supported by the significance value of 0.000 for both the mastery of music theory variable and the knowledge of solfeggio variable in relation to the intermediate level playing skills on primary music instruments. The calculated significance value (sig o) was found to be less than 0.05 (0.01), confirming the statistical significance of the results.
Bamboo Violin Innovation in Japan Village Kudus Regency
Authors: Widyaswara Silvana Nada , Haryono Slamet
Published: July 2023

The violin is a common musical instrument constructed of wood, specifically a variety of maple wood. A bamboo violin musical instrument has been created by a woodworker from Kudus Regency's Japan Village. The aim of this study was to discover and describe the innovations used by woodworkers in the production of violins in Japan Village, Kudus Regency, as well as the discovery and description of the production method for bamboo-based violins in Japan Village, Kudus Regency. The research was conducted using a case study research design and a qualitative research methodology. Following are the study's findings: 1) Local wood and bamboo, such as petung bamboo, rosewood wood, Dutch teak wood, and wood mahogany, are used as the basic building blocks for violins. Wood craftsmen also incorporate Indonesian wayang carvings and a scroll design with an eagle head and a puppet head that both have symbolic meaning when creating violin designs for their musical instruments.
Semiotic Dimension Deconstruction in the First Movement of "Spring" by Vivaldi
Authors: Kirana Maula Waytisi , Alberthiene Andrea , Rusdi Fabiola Carissa
Published: July 2023

Music is a means of expressing feelings and aesthetics in the human mind and heart. Through increasing human creativity, this media for expression comes in many types, one of which is program music, whose compositional construction is based on the composer's imagination to describe a character, atmosphere, or an event. Allegro of “Concerto No. 1 in E major, Op. 8, RV 269: Spring (La primavera)”, as the first movement of the program music The Four Seasons from Vivaldi, is famous for depicting the atmosphere of spring filled with birdsong, the wind blowing, to the sound of the river flowing. Therefore, this study intents to thoroughly examine those representations of this atmosphere through the deconstruction of the semiotic dimension. As an inductive qualitative research, Peirce's semiotic theory and the descriptive analysis data method are applied. Based on Peirce's semiotic theory, the description of the spring atmosphere is present in interpretant through the imitation of bird sounds, river flow, and storms; harmonic progressions, melodic motifs, musical technique ornaments, and collective structures in objects; as well as sonnets in representamen. Thus, it can be summarized that the illustration of the atmosphere in the title and sonnet is closely related to the music notation, meaning they are inseparable. In the past few years, an akin exploration that focuses on Vivaldi's works through the semiotic perspective was absent; hence, this study plays a huge part in its research contribution to the field of knowledge.
The Widespread Application of Artificial Intelligence in Education Necessitates Critical Analyses
Authors: Cheng Xiaoqiao
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a wide-ranging branch of computer science concerned with the development of computer systems and smart machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. AI technology can serve as an extension of human intelligence, carrying out part of the work that could only be done by humans in the past and even tasks that humans are incapable of accomplishing, which can potentially elevate social productivity to a significant extent. To date, AI has permeated every aspect of our life. Education is one of the spheres to which AI will bring profound changes.
The Significance of Educational Application of Artificial Intelligence and Its Current State in China
Authors: Li Zongwen
Published: July 2023

The educational application of artificial intelligence (AI) is to integrate AI technology into the educational system including educational components and processes to achieve personalized, inclusive, and more effective education. The adoption of AI technology in Chinese education has considerably improved its efficiency and equity. The purpose of this article is to present the significance of educational application of AI and the status quo of the use of AI technologies in Chinese education.
O gênio maligno como imagem filosófica emblemática: uma crítica hegeliana ao materialismo dialético
Authors: Ferraz Bueno Sinésio
Published: July 2023

Na filosofia moderna, o gênio maligno de Descartes representou não apenas a radicalização do ceticismo em relação à confiabilidade da razão, mas também a erosão do finalismo metafísico. Nos tempos atuais, quando o materialismo dialético almeja constituir-se como campo explicativo do ser na esfera ontológica, o tempo histórico é destituído de finalismo em termos metafísicos. Neste artigo será apresentada a hipótese de que isso significa restaurar o gênio maligno cartesiano, pois a história passa a ser concebida como sucessão aleatória de fatos contingentes entregues aos interesses imediatos dos homens. Essa perspectiva será contrastada com uma ótica hegeliana, em que o materialismo é interpretado como etapa do desenvolvimento da consciência de si.