bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Status and De Novo Synthesis of Anti-Tumor Alkaloids in Nicotiana: A Mini-Review
Authors: Habib Md. Ahsan , Islam Md. Mobinul , Islam Md. Mukul , Hasan Md. Mohidul , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: April 2023

Alkaloids are the most diversified nitrogen-containing secondary metabolites having antioxi-dant, and antimicrobial properties and are extensively used in pharmaceuticals to treat different types of cancer. Nicotiana serves as a reservoir of anticancer alkaloids and is also used as a model plant for the de novo synthesis of various anti-cancer molecules through genetic engineering. Up to 4% of the total dry weight of Nicotiana was found to be composed of alkaloids where nicotine, nornicotine, anatabine, and anabasine are reported as the dominant alkaloids. And, among the alkaloids present in Nicotiana, β-carboline (Harmane and Norharmane), Kynurenines are found to show anti-tumor effects, especially in the case of colon and breast cancer. Creating new or shunting of existing biosynthesis pathways in different species of Nicotiana resulted in de novo or increased synthesis of different anti-tumor molecules or their derivatives or precursors includ-ing Taxadiane (~22.5 µg/g), Artemisinin (~120 μg/g), Parthenolide (~2.05 ng/g), Costunolide (~60 ng/g), Etoposide (~1 mg/g), Crocin (~400 µg/g), Catharanthine (~60 ng/g), Tabersonine (~10 ng/g), Strictosidine (~0.23 mg/g), etc. Enrich precursor pool especially Dimethylallyl Diphos-phate (DMAPP) and down-regulating of other bi-product pathways, compartmentalization or metabolic shunting, or organelle-specific reconstitution of the precursor pool might trigger the enhanced accumulation of the targeted anticancer alkaloid in Nicotiana.
Multi-Scale Model Crack Extension Study Based on XFEM
Authors: Liu Guangzhong , Chen Zezhu
Published: April 2023

The link of fracture analysis of large ships is an essential part of the structural safety of ships. However, the finite element analysis of large structure according to the traditional method not only has high requirements on the computer, but also the influence of the mesh encryption at special locations makes further requirements on the accuracy of the ship. In this paper, based on the extended finite element method (XFEM) and the multi-point constraint method (MPC), the dynamic crack expansion process of the rectangular plate containing cracks under the multi-scale model is comparatively studied by using ABAQUS simulation software Finally, the applicability of the method is verified by applying the multi-scale model of ship nodes. The results show that the computational effort of the multi-scale model is significantly reduced with the same accuracy and allowable error, which proves the accuracy and efficiency of the method.
Recent Advances in Urinary Peptide and Proteomic Biomarkers in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Catanese Lorenzo , Siwy Justyna , Mischak Harald , Wendt Ralph , Beige Joachim , Rupprecht Harald
Published: April 2023

Background: Biomarker development, improvement, and clinical implementation in the context of kidney disease has been a central focus of biomedical research for decades. To this point, only serum creatinine and urinary albumin excretion are well accepted biomarkers in kidney disease. With their known blind spot in early stages of kidney impairment and diagnostic limitations there is a need for better and more specific biomarkers. With the rise of large-scale analysis of thousands of peptides in serum or urine samples using mass spectrometry techniques hopes for biomarker development were high. Advances in proteomic research have led to the discovery of an increasing amount of potential proteomic biomarkers and identification of candidate biomarkers for clinical implementation in the context of kidney disease management. In this review we focus on urinary peptide and especially peptidomic biomarkers emerging from recent research and underline the role of those with the highest potential for clinical implementation. Methods: The Web of Science database (all databases) was searched on October 17th, 2020, using the search terms “marker*” OR biomarker* AND “renal disease” OR “kidney disease” AND “proteome*” OR “peptid*” AND “urin*”. English, full-text original articles on humans published within the last 5 years were included which were cited at least 5 times per year. Studies based on animal models, renal transplant studies, metabolite studies, studies on miRNA and studies on exosomal vesicles were excluded focusing on urinary peptide biomarkers. Results: The described search led to the identification of 3668 articles and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria as well as abstract and consecutive full-text analysis of 3 independent authors to a final number of 62 studies for this manuscript. The 62 manuscripts encompassed 8 established single peptide biomarkers and several proteomic classifiers including CKD273 and IgAN237. Discussion: This review provides a summary of recent evidence on single peptide urinary biomarkers in CKD while emphasizing the increasing role of proteomic biomarker research with new research on established and new proteomic biomarkers. Lessons learned from the last 5 years in this review might encourage future studies hopefully resulting in routine clinical applicability of new biomarkers.
Docking-Based Evidence for the Potential of ImmunoDefender: A Novel Formulated Essential Oil Blend Incorporating Synergistic Antiviral Bioactive Compounds as Promising Mpro Inhibitors Against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Ksouri Ayoub , Klouz Anis , Bouhaouala Balkiss , Moussa Fathi , Bezzarga Mounir
Published: April 2023

Essential oils have demonstrated antiviral activity, but their toxicity can hinder their use as therapeutic agents. Recently, some essential oil components have been used within safe levels of acceptable daily intake limits without causing toxicity. The "ImmunoDefender," a novel antiviral compound made from a well-known mixture of essential oils, is considered highly effective in treating SARS-CoV-2 infections. The components and doses were chosen based on existing information about their structure and toxicity. Blocking the Main Protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 with high affinity and capacity is critical for inhibiting the virus's pathogenesis and transmission. In-silico studies were conducted to examine the molecular interactions between the main essential oil components in "ImmunoDefender" and SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. The screening results showed that six key components of ImmunoDefender formed stable complexes with Mpro via its active catalytic site with binding energies ranging from -8.75 to -10.30 kcal/mol, respectively for Cinnamtannin B1, Cinnamtannin B2, Pavetannin C1, Syzyginin B, Procyanidin C1, and Tenuifolin. Furthermore, three essential oil bioactive inhibitors, Cinnamtannin B1, Cinnamtannin B2, and Pavetannin C, have a significant ability to bind to the allosteric site of the main protease with binding energies of -11.12, -10.74, and -10.79 kcal/mol, These results suggest that these essential oil bioactive compounds may play a role in preventing the attachment of the translated polyprotein to Mpro, inhibiting the virus's pathogenesis and transmission. These components also had drug-like characteristics similar to approved and effective drugs, suggesting further pre-clinical and clinical studies are needed to confirm the generated in-silico outcomes.
Assigning Unit Values in Ecosystem Services Valuation: A Comparative Analysis of Global, Regional, and Local Unit Values for Three Ecosystem Services in the Grand River Watershed, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Aziz Tariq , Nimubona Alain-Desire , Van Cappellen Philippe
Published: April 2023

Economic valuations of ecosystem services often transfer previously estimated global unit values to the geographical setting of interest. While this approach produces quick results, its reliability depends on how representative the large-scale average unit values are for the given local context. Here, we estimate the values of three ecosystem services (ES) – water filtration, nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration – in the Grand River watershed (GRW) of southern Ontario, Canada. The watershed covers nearly 7000 km2, has a humid continental climate and a population of close to one million people. Land cover is dominated by agriculture. We compare ES valuations using locally derived (i.e., GRW-specific) unit values to valuations based on unit values from a regional database and those compiled in the global Ecosystem Services Valuation Database (ESVD). The regional database includes mean unit values from three case studies within southern Ontario and one boreal watershed in British Columbia. As expected, the regional database yields average monetary values for the three ES that are close to those obtained with the local unit values but with larger associated uncertainties. Using the ESVD, however, results in significantly higher monetary values for the ES. For water filtration, the ESVD value is more than five times higher than the regional and local estimates. We further illustrate the effect of the extent of aggregation of forested and agricultural land categories on the ES values. For example, by subdividing the forest category into three sub-categories (deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forest), the estimated value of the carbon sequestration ES of forested areas within the GRW increases by 15%. Overall, our results emphasize the importance of critically assessing the origin of unit values and the land cover resolution in ES valuation, especially when the latter is used as a policy-guiding tool.
The Effect of Circadian Photoreceptors Stimulation on the Stress Response of Subjects with High Anxiety
Authors: Sergeeva Mariya Stanislavovna , Borisova Oksana Viacheslavovna , Romanchuk Natalia Petrovna , Videnin Arseniy Andreevich , Pyatin Vasiliy Fedorovich , Shusharina Natalia Nikolaevna , Zakharov Alexander Vladimirovich , Kolsanov Alexander Vladimirovich
Published: April 2023

The circadian and stress-realizing systems are interconnected, and the balance of their interaction determines the state of human health. The objective of this study was to investigate the modulating effect of activating the circadian system on heart rate variability in female medical students with high anxiety while performing a cognitive task. After 20 minutes of adequate stimulation of circadian photoreceptors with a monochromatic blue light, the cognitive task performance resulted in a decrease in sympathetic impact. During the session of using Blue Sky Pro glasses, a trend of increasing heart rate variability was observed in a state of relative rest (especially in the first 5 minutes). A comparative analysis of the parameters of the letter cancellation test before and after light exposure revealed a statistically significant increase in the indexes reflecting mental productivity, work accuracy, and concentration of attention. The results suggest an essential physiological role of the human circadian system in modulating the autonomic and psycho-emotional conditions, as well as cognitive functions of individuals with high anxiety. Our findings indicate the possibility of quickly correcting the balance in human systemic regulatory mechanisms using the activation of retinal circadian photoreceptors by blue light.
The Role of Cyclodextrin in the Construction of Nanoplatforms: From Structure, Function and Application Perspectives
Authors: Xing Chengyuan , Zheng Xiaoming , Deng Tian , Zeng Ling , Liu Xin , Chi Xinjin , Kang Yang
Published: April 2023

Drug delivery systems consist of cyclodextrins (CyDs) have kept constant attention for good compatibility, negligible toxicity, and improved pharmacokinetics of drugs. The unique hollow structure has endowed a lot of functions, such as inclusion of guest molecules, functional modification of active hydroxyl groups, and noncovalent interactions. Besides, the polyhydroxy structure has further extended the functions of CyDs by inter/intramolecular interactions and chemical modification. Furthermore, the versatile functions of the complex contribute to physicochemical characteristics alteration of the drugs, therapeutic talent, stimulus-responsive switch, self-assemble capability, and fiber formation. This review attempts to list the recent progress of CyDs and discuss their roles in the drug delivery system. Future perspectives of the construction of CyD-based drug delivery systems are also discussed at the end of this review, which may be the possible directions for the construction of more rational and cost-effective delivery vehicles.
Entomopathogenic Potential of Bacillus velezensis CE 100 for the Biological Control of Termite Damage in Wooden Architectural Buildings of Korean Cultural Heritage
Authors: Moon Jae-Hyun , Ajuna Henry B. , Won Sang-Jae , Choub Vantha , Choi Su-In , Yun Ju-Yeol , Hwang Won Joung , Park Sang Wook , Ahn Young Sang
Published: April 2023

Biocontrol strategies are gaining tremendous attention with the growing awareness of the irreparable harm caused by the continuous use of synthetic pesticides. This study examines the proteolytic and chitinolytic activities of Bacillus velezensis CE 100 and its termiticidal effect through cuticle degradation. The proteolytic and chitinolytic activities of B. velezensis CE 100 systematically increased with cell growth to the respective peak of 68.3, and 128.3 units/mL after seventh days of inoculation, corresponding with the highest cell growth of 16 x 107 colony forming units (CFU)/mL. The in vitro termiticidal assay showed that B. velezensis CE 100 caused a rapid and high rate of termite mortality with the median lethal time (LT50) of > 1h, and the highest mortality rate of 91.1% and 92.2% recorded at 11h and 12h in the bacterial broth culture and crude enzyme fraction, respectively. In addition to broken setae and deformed sockets, termites treated with the bacterial broth culture exhibited degraded epicuticles, while the crude enzyme fraction caused severe disintegration of both the epicuticle and endocuticle. These results indicate a tremendously higher prospect of B. velezensis CE 100 in the biological control of subterranean termites compared to the previously used entomopathogenic bacteria.
Analyses of Early ZIKV Genomes are Consistent with Viral Spread from Northeast Brazil to The Americas
Authors: De Moraes Laise Eduarda Paixão , Portilho Moyra Machado , Vrancken Bram , Van den Broeck Frederik , Santos Luciane Amorim , Cucco Marina Silveira , Tauro Laura Beatriz , Kikuti Mariana , Silva Monaise Madalena Oliveira , Campos Gubio Soares , Reis Mitermayer Galvão , Barral Aldina Maria Prado , Barral-Netto Manoel , Boaventura Viviane Sampaio , Vandamme Anne-Mieke , Theys Kristof , Lemey Philippe , Ribeiro Guilherme de Sousa , Khouri Ricardo
Published: April 2023

The Americas, particularly Brazil, were greatly impacted by the widespread outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKV) in 2015 and 2016. Efforts were made to implement genomic surveillance of ZIKV as part of the public health responses. The accuracy of spatiotemporal reconstructions of the epidemic spread relies on the unbiased sampling of the transmission process. In the early stages of the outbreak, we recruited patients exhibiting clinical symptoms of arbovirus-like infection from Salvador and Campo Formoso, Bahia, in Northeast Brazil. Between May 2015 and June 2016, we identified 21 cases of acute ZIKV infection and subsequently recovered 14 near full-length sequences using the amplicon tiling multiplex approach with nanopore sequencing. We perform a time-calibrated discrete phylogeographic analysis to trace the spread and migration history of the ZIKV. Our phylogenetic analysis supports a consistent relationship between ZIKV migration from Northeast to Southeast Brazil and its subsequent dissemination beyond Brazil. Additionally, our analysis provides insights into the migration of ZIKV from Brazil to Haiti and the role Brazil played in the spread of ZIKV to other countries, such as Singapore, the USA and Dominican Republic. The data generated by this study enhances our understanding of ZIKV dynamics and supports the existing knowledge, which can aid in future surveillance efforts against the virus.
Phenotyping Genetic Diseases Through Artificial Intelligence Use of Large Datasets of Government-stored Facial Photographs: Concept, Legal Issues, and Challenges in the European Union
Authors: Kováč Peter , Alexandra Bražinová , Ivan Varga , Lukáš Mrázik , Michal Aláč , Martin Smatana , Thurzo Andrej
Published: April 2023

One in 12 babies is born with a rare genetic disease. Sadly, most cases are undetected until later age, missing time for early treatment and opportunity to prevent complications. Humanity has entered a new era where Big Data collected by governments, including 2D and 3D facial scans, are available. Many rare genetic diseases can be identified by artificial intelligence (AI) analysis of the facial photo. Phenotyping AI utilizations facilitate comprehensive and accurate genetic evaluations. AI processing of this Big Data to identify rare genetic diseases could bring unimaginable benefits to healthcare, although this would be a questionable step in terms of citizen privacy and could lead to future "Orwellian" ramifications with government abuse. Going forward, a balance must be found between protecting the privacy of citizens and the enticing use of AI for their health risks and cost savings through prevention. The unimaginable potential of AI early diagnostics from facial photos also raises various ethical and legal concerns. This paper presents concept, protentional methods and legal and other limitations within EU legal framework in contrast with potential benefits. This paper is focused on AI utilization to early diagnostic of rare genetic diseases. Shift of paradigm in the screening for rare genetic diseases in population with AI face analysis is expected to have a significant impact. The potential of AI algorithms utilizations similar to face2gene app in general population or systematically on Big governmental datasets recording facial traits changes in time can have significant impact on public health but at the same time give raise to profound concern as violation of one’s privacy.
Climate Suitability for Tourism in Romania based on HCI: Urban Climate Index in the Near-Future Climate
Authors: Velea Liliana , Bojariu Roxana , Irimescu Anisoara , Craciunescu Vasile , Puiu Silvia , Gallo Alessandro
Published: April 2023

The study presents an assessment of climate suitability for outdoor leisure activities in Romania using the Holliday Climate Index (HCI) for the near future (2021-2040), focusing on unfavorable and good climate conditions. The analysis employs data from an ensemble model in the context of RCP45 and RCP85 climate change scenarios. The results indicate that the number of days with low weather suitability is decreasing in almost the entire country, especially during the warm season, while during the winter and spring extended regions may be characterized by a higher number of days favorable for outdoor activities than during the current climate. An estimation of the impact of climate changes on tourism flux in Romania is further carried out, suggesting that the increasing attractivity of climate conditions may lead to an increased number of tourist overnights in the near future, more pronounced in rural destinations.
Effect of Prenatal Ketamine Exposure: A Focused Literature Review
Authors: Simonetti Alexa , Trimble Alicia , Shrock Hattie , Gudi Revathi , Murthy Varsha
Published: April 2023

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic and antidepressant with several biological targets. Among the many targets, ketamine, notably, has an antagonistic effect on molecular N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and has been identified as a non-competitive inhibitor of these receptors. Although ketamine has a wide range of therapeutic uses in the clinical setting, it is often used recreationally due to its psychoactive and analgesic effects. Regardless of the indication, prenatal exposure to ketamine has been widely investigated. The misuse of this drug, particularly in pregnant women, has been a point of concern. The neurotoxic potential of ketamine positions it as a danger to a developing fetus. Furthermore, the ability of ketamine to cross the blood-placental barrier poses a threat to the health and maturation processes of the neonate. This paper reviewed published work that explores the mechanisms through which prenatal ketamine exposure can cause altered neurodevelopment, neurobehavior, and the physiological consequences that follow. By exploring investigations using multiple different subjects such as: rodents, non-human primates, and human subjects, this paper develops a full picture of the existing data to generate a strong foundation for improved and informed public health policies.
Improving Detection of ChatGPT-Generated Fake Science Using Real Publication Text: Introducing xFakeBibs a Supervised Learning Network Algorithm
Authors: Hamed Ahmed Abdeen
Published: April 2023

Background: ChatGPT is becoming a new reality. Where do we go from here? Objective: to show how we can distinguish ChatGPT-generated publications from counterparts produced by scientist. Methods:By means of a newly devised algorithm, called xFakeBibs, we show the difference in contents and structure of bigram networks generated from ChatGPT fake publications are significantly different from real publications. Specifically, we triggered ChatGPT to generate 100 publications related to Alzheimer’s and comorbidity. Using TF-IDF, we constructed a network of bigrams and compared with 10 other networks constructed from real PubMed publications. Each of those networks were constructed from exactly one of 10 folds. Each fold was equally comprised of 100 publications to ensure fairness. We trained the xFakeBibs algorithm using the 10-folds which were used to test the ChatGPT fake publications. The algorithm successfully assigned the POSITIVE label for real and NEGATIVE for fake ones. Results: When comparing the bigrams of the training set against all the other 10 folds, we found that the similarities fluctuated between (19%-21%). On the other hand, the bigram similarity from the ChatGPT was only (8%). Additionally, when testing how the bigrams alter the structure of the training model, we found that all 10 folds contributed (51%-70%) new, while ChatGPT contributed only 23% which is less than half of any of the other 10 folds. Upon calibrating the xFakeBibs algorithm using the 10-fold real publications, we learned that they contribute 21.96-24.93 number of edges on average. When xFakeBibs classified the individual articles, we found that 98 of the 100 publications were detected as fake, while 2 articles failed the test and were classified as real publications. Conclusions:While it is indeed possible to distinguish, in bulk, a dataset of ChatGPT-generated publications from counterparts of real publications (as was the case for the Alzheimer’s dataset). Classifying individual articles as fake though can be done to a high degree of accuracy, it may not be possible to detect all fake and ChatGPT automatically generated articles. ChatGPT may seem to be a useful tool, but it certainly presents a threat to our knowledge of authentic and real science. This work is indeed a step in the right direction to counter fake science and misinformation.
Modeling Neurodegenerative/Neurodevelopmental Disorders using Human-Derived Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Shevade Kaivalya
Published: April 2023

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have two characteristic abilities 1) self-renewal and 2) differentiation into all cell types in the human body. It is this ability of iPSCs to differentiate into any desired cell type that makes them amenable to disease modeling. iPSCs can further be engineered to carry a disease-specific mutation or be derived from patients to phenocopy the disease. To model neurodegenerative/neurodevelopmental disorders iPSCs are differentiated into neurons. This chapter describes protocols for two different approaches to generate neurons from iPSCs, first using dual SMAD inhibition to generate neural progenitor cells which are then differentiated into neurons, and second using single transcription factor (NGN2) over-expression to drive differentiation of iPSCs directly into neurons.
Clinical Outcome of Endoscopic Dilatation Using Ultrathin Endoscope Assisted Method for Esophageal and Pyloric Stricture Related Corrosive Injury: 4 Years Retrospective Study
Authors: Ekawati Rusdiyana , Mudjari Nurike Setiyari , Arianti Arianti , Mufida Annisa Zahra , Widodo Budi , Sugihartono Titong , Purbayu Herry
Published: April 2023

Background: Corrosive injuries (CI) became medical problems related complications include esophageal, pyloric stricture, squamous cell carcinoma [1], physical and quality of life [2]. Endoscopic dilatation (ED) is primary therapy [3]. The ultrathin endoscope assisted method is potentially safe and useful in avoiding technical failure [4].
Methods: Retrospective study of esophageal and/or pyloric stricture after CI who underwent di-latation at Soetomo General Hospital (July 2018 – July 2022). One-biweekly ED using Ultrathin Endoscope Assisted Method then continued by Through The Scope (TTS) balloon or Bougie dila-tor. Target diameter is 14mm. Clinical outcome included successful, refractory, recurrent rate and complications related procedures
Results: Fifteen patients with stricture related CI. Eleven patients underwent ED with total 73 procedures. Mean age 31,45 years, Male 6(54,6%), suicide attempt 7(63,6%), acid agent 9(81,8%) located at esophagus 3(27,3%), pylorus 3(27,3 %), or both 5(45,4%). Number of esophageal dilata-tion to achieve target 14mm was 1-2 and 2-15 procedures for simple and complex stricture with overall successful, recurrent and refractory rate were 75%, 12.5% and 12.5% respectively. Pyloric dilatation outcome were 62.5%, 25% and 12.5% for successful, recurrent and refractory rate re-spectively.
Conclusions: Stricture-related corrosive injury has predominantly complex anatomical structure, more sessions are required and lower clinical outcome
Immersive Virtual Reality and its Influence on Physiological Parameters in Healthy People
Authors: Rodríguez-Fuentes Gustavo , Campo-Prieto Pablo , Souto Xosé Carlos , Cancela-Carral José Mª
Published: April 2023

The use of active video games or exergames has been booming recently, as they are motivating and promote exercise and healthy lifestyle habits for their users, and these immersive virtual reality (IVR) exercise programs could be compared to traditional physical exercise programs. A starting point for this would be to explore the physiological responses that can be generated by its use. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the response across certain physiological parameters (heart rate, blood pressure and stress) after an IVR exergame exposure in a sample of healthy adults, and secondarily to explore its feasibility and usefulness as a tool to facilitate physical exercise. 37 healthy adults (22-54 years, 54.1% women) participated in the study. They carried out one exergaming session with the HTC Vive ProTM hardware. The primary outcome was evaluated using the concentration of cortisol, heart rate and blood pressure. Secondary outcomes were evaluated with safety using the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ); usability evaluated with the System Usability Scale (SUS); personal experiences evaluated with Game Experience Questionnaire (GEQ) and perceived exertion through the Borg perceived effort scale. All participants completed the IVR session without significant adverse effects, and all physiological parameters analysed increased significantly in relation to pre-intervention levels. Perceived exertion corresponded to a moderate to intense exercise (6.30±0.50/10 on the modified Borg scale). All the sample considered the experience as good or very good and would recommend it. These findings support that our IVR session can be compared to a moderate to intense physical activity, as it involved similar perceived exertion with significant increases in heart rate, blood pressure and salivary cortisol levels.
Optimal Lot-Sizing Decisions for a Remanufacturing Production System under Spare Parts Supply Uncertainty
Authors: Mat Ropi Nuramilawahida , Hishamuddin Hawa , Wahab Dzuraidah Abd , Jauhari Wakhid Ahmad , A. Rashid Fatin Amrina , Khamis Nor Kamaliana , Mohamed Intan Fadhlina , Mohd Sabri Mohd Anas , Abu Mansor Mohd Radzi
Published: April 2023

Remanufacturing is a way for product recovery initiative and maintaining sufficient production flow to satisfy customer demand through circular economy. Recently, manufacturers have been progressively incorporating remanufacturing processes, making their supply chain vulnerable to disruptions. Among the disruptions that usually occur is the shortage in spare parts supply, which causes unexpected delay in production and possible loss of sales. In the face of potential disruption, it is essential for remanufacturing facilities to manage their supply chains in an optimum manner as to decrease the adverse impact of disruptions to their business. In this study, a two-stage production-inventory system is analysed by developing a cost-minimisation model focusing on the recovery schedule after a disruption occurrence in sourcing spare parts for a remanufacturer’s production cycle. The developed model was solved using the branch and bound algorithm. Through numerical experiments, the results indicate that the optimal recovery schedule and the number of recovery cycles are significantly dependant on disruption time, lost sales and backorder costs. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis shows that the lost sales option seems to be more effective than the backorder option in optimising the system’s overall cost. The proposed model could assist managers in deciding the optimal production strategy while providing interesting managerial insights into vital spare parts recovery issues when disruption strikes.
Comparison of Antibody Persistence Up to 6 Months After Additional Booster Vaccination With ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Vaccine.
Authors: Suwanwattana Pawita , Han May , Nopsopon Tanawin , Phutrakool Phanupong , Samuthpongtorn Chatpol , Pongpirul Wannarat , Prasithsirikul Wisit , Jongkaewwattana Anan , Pongpirul Krit
Published: April 2023

Vaccines are crucial for controlling the COVID-19 pandemic, and booster doses are becoming increasingly important. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine from AstraZeneca as a third dose in healthcare workers at different time intervals (one, three, and six months). Two methods to measure immune response—ELISA (EUROIMMUN Medizinische Labordiagnostika AG, Luebeck, Germany) and ELISpot (Mabtech AB, Macka Strand, Sweden)—were used. A total of 170 participants were included in the study. The results showed that while IgG levels decreased at six months compared to levels at one and three months, they were still significantly higher than the baseline. Furthermore, neutralizing levels at three and six months after the third dose were not significantly different. These findings suggest that the immune response induced by the vaccine is robust and effective for several months. These results have significant implications for public health policymakers, as they provide strong support for booster vaccinations. The ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine appears to be a reliable option for preventing the spread of COVID-19, and this study provides valuable information for healthcare workers and policymakers in managing the pandemic.
A Novel Sea Horse Optimizer Based Load Frequency Controller for Two-Area Power System with PV and Thermal Units
Authors: Andic Cenk , Ozumcan Sercan , Varan Metin , Ozturk Ali
Published: April 2023

Load Frequency Control (LFC) is essential to ensure the stability and performance of power systems. In this study, a novel optimization algorithm, the Sea Horse Optimizer (SHO) algorithm, was proposed for optimizing controller parameters in LFC problems of power system. The proposed SHO algorithm was tested on a two-area power system with photovoltaic system and reheat thermal units, under three different scenarios: a 10% load change in both area, large load disturbances, and varying solar radiation. The proposed algorithm optimizes the gain parameters of PI/PID controllers using performance metrics such as Integral of Absolute value of the Error (IAE), Integral of Square Error (ISE), Integral of Time multiplied by Square Error (ITSE), and Integral of Time multiplied by Absolute Error (ITAE). The study compared the performance of the SHO-optimized controller with other reported optimization algorithms such as Genetic Algorithm (GA), Firefly Algorithm (FA), Whale Optimization
Algorithm (WOA), and Modified Whale Optimization Algorithm (MWOA). The study also evaluated the accuracy and effectiveness of the controllers using performance metrics such as Settling Time, Overshoot (M+), and Undershoot (M-). The results show that the SHO-tuned controller significantly reduces overshoot, undershoot, and settling time of the system oscillations compared to other algorithms. The study provides valuable insights into the optimization of LFC controllers and presents a significant contribution to the literature with its novel algorithm. The proposed SHO algorithm can be considered an effective alternative solution method for LFC in power systems.
Study on Pricing of High Dimensional Financial Derivatives Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Liu Xiangdong , Gu Yu
Published: April 2023

Many problems in the fields of finance and actuarial science can be transformed into the problem of solving backward stochastic differential equations (BSDE) and partial differential equations (PDE) with jumps, which are often difficult to solve in high-dimensional cases. To solve this problem, this paper applies the deep learning algorithm to solve a class of high-dimensional nonlinear partial differential equations with jump terms and their corresponding backward stochastic differential equations (BSDE) with jump terms. Using the nonlinear Feynman-Kac formula, the problem of solving this kind of PDE is transformed into the problem of solving the corresponding backward stochastic differential equations with jump terms, and the numerical solution problem is turned into a stochastic control problem. At the same time, the gradient and jump process of the unknown solution are separately regarded as the strategy function and they are approximated respectively by using two multilayer neural networks as function approximators. Thus, deep learning-based method is used to overcome the “curse of dimensionality” caused by high-dimensional PDE with jump, and the numerical solution is obtained. In addition, this paper proposes a new optimization algorithm based on the existing neural network random optimization algorithm, and compares the results with the traditional optimization algorithm, and achieves good results. Finally, the proposed method is applied to three practical high-dimensional problems: Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation, bond pricing under the jump Vasicek model and high-dimensional option pricing model with default risk. The proposed numerical method has obtained satisfactory accuracy and efficiency. The method has important application value and practical significance in investment decision-making, option pricing, insurance and other fields.
DESARROLLO DE UN SISTEMA DE GESTIÓN DE INVENTARIOS PARA EL CONTROL DE MATERIALES, EQUIPOS Y HERRAMIENTAS DENTRO DE LA EMPRESA DE CONSTRUCCIÓN REALIDAD COLOMBIA S.A.S
Authors:   Universidad Libre, Parra Angel Santiago , Fuentes Rojas Ever Ángel
Published: April 2023

La empresa Realidad Colombia SAS se dedica a la contratación y ejecución de obras civiles, especialmente en el departamento de Risaralda. Actualmente, desarrolla sus labores en el condominio Terragrata en la ciudad de Dosquebradas, en el proceso de ejecución de la obra se han evidenciado algunas demoras, pérdidas y reprocesos que implican una mayor inversión de capital humano y recursos financieros; basados en los registros que la compañía maneja, se ha logrado constatar que el bajo control en el almacén en los últimos trimestres es uno de los principales factores de ineficiencia, debido a que no se cuenta con un sistema definido en cuanto al control de inventarios, de igual forma no se tiene estipulado un registro con un soporte documental físico o magnético que permita verificar las cantidad de entrada y salida de los productos que se tienen en obra, esta situación genera un problema económico de todo tipo, desde el desperdicio de material hasta retrasos en el tiempo de ejecución. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior, se trabajó en el área de almacén, debido a que es el medio por el cual se da paso a la ejecución de la obra, se realizó una investigación acerca de que método de control de inventario le es más beneficioso a la organización, aportando así a la compañía un sistema que controla las referencias de productos, equipos y herramientas identificando su ubicación, destino y el momento que se utilizan, optimizando tiempos entre pedidos, logrando que en el caso del acero se soliciten entre 40 y 43 pedidos anuales y reduciendo así costos de mantener y pedir.
Smartphone for physics practicum in momentum and impulse
Authors: Nuryantini Ade Yeti , Zakwandi Rizki , Ariayuda Muhamad Ari
Published: April 2023

Practicum is an important part of Physics learning that cannot be ignored even in distance learning. Obstacles of practicum facilities faced by students can be overcome by using sensor on smartphones as a measuring tool. In this study, the use of the accelerometer sensor on a smartphone has been carried out to analyze the concept of momentum and impulse through the collision of two toy cars. Two toy cars A and B with smartphones attached have their respective masses of m1 0.31345 kg and m2 0.32116 kg. Car A was idle and car B was moved until it collided car A. In the event of a collision, the accelerometer sensor recorded acceleration data (a) versus time (t). Data (a) versus time (t) was represented in the form of a curve. Next, the data were analyzed. From the graph obtained data t1 =1.237 seconds, when car B started to exert a contact force on car A. The contact time between cars was ï„t = 0.025 seconds. The maximum acceleration experienced by car A during a collision was a = 27.919 m/s2. From the area of the curve (a) vs (t) the impulse value was 0.1217 (N. sec) which is also the value of the change in momentum of car A, with car A's speed after the collision of 0.427 m/s. Thus, the accelerometer sensor on a smartphone can be used to assist students in finding important concepts through practical activities. The use of the accelerometer sensor is expected to help students to facilitate understanding the concepts of momentum and impulse.
Computer-assisted recitation program: A focused study on students’ conceptual understanding on force and motion
Authors: Taqwa Muhammad Reyza Arief , Yusof Mohammad Mubarrak Mohd , Pebriana Irvany Nurita , Misbakhussuduri Achmad
Published: April 2023

Recitation programs have been developed and tested on the topic of force and motion. The program consists of 63 multiple choice questions with feedback made in 3 packages (one package each week). This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the program. This research is a quantitative research with a quasi-experimental design. The applied experimental design is a one group pretest-posttest design. The program was given for 3 weeks by giving 1 recitation package at each meeting (there are 21 questions for every package). The study was conducted on 38 Physics Education students’ who enrolled the Material and Learning Physics I course. The pretest-posttest questions consisted of 15 reasoned multiple-choice questions. Data analysis was performed by determining descriptive statistics, paired sample t-test, N-gain, and d-effect size. The research found that the program significantly improved students’ conceptual understanding with N-gain of 0.498 and d-effect size of 1.559. These results indicate that the provision of recitation programs can improve students' conceptual understanding on force and motion, especially in determining the F(t) graph from the v(t) graph, where initially the ability to solve problems in the form of graphical representations is one of the difficult matters for students.
Student’s need analysis in using ordinary differential equation e-module of Mathematical Physics II
Authors: Darmaji Darmaji , Astalini Astalini , Kurniawan Dwi Agus , Putri Fhadira Insani , Perdana Rahmat , Fuldiaratman Fuldiaratman
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this research is to find out students’ opinion about e-module ordinary differential equations that will be developed. This type of research is a mixed method with the purposive sampling technique. The samples were 50 students of Universitas Jambi majoring physics education a regular class A and regular class B 2020 who took the mathematical physics II course. The data were collected through interviews and questionnaires, then analyzed using descriptive statistics for the questionnaires and Miles and Huberman’s analysis for the interview results. The findings show that the majority of the students believe the creation of this e-module is a very good idea. This is proven by the results of descriptive statistics, where the average value is 18,0 and is in the required category. The quantitative findings are strengthened by the qualitative ones from interview, which show that the majority of respondents support the creation of this e-module. The results indicate that the students require additional learning resources to fully comprehend the lessons in the Mathematical Physics II e-module. Students can learn independently in mathematical physics course by using e-modules. The future studies on mathematical physics e-modules can use this study as a guide.
Meta analysis of the effect of STEM application on higher order thinking skill in science learning
Authors: Azizahwati Azizahwati , Januarti Januarti , Sari Siti Wulan , Sari Ranti Amelia , Ranti Linda , Septyowaty Rury
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this research is to ascertain the impact of using the STEM approach in learning science and physics. The 20 research articles whose findings were examined in this study were all published in journals between 2018 and 2022. Effect size values used in the meta-analysis in this study were calculated using the OpenMEE program. Four indicators—level of education, learning models, learning media, and higher-order thinking skills—can be used to determine the impact of STEM (HOTS) learning. The average effect size on educational attainment is 1,590 at the junior high school level and 1,440 at the senior high school level. The average effect size for STEM learning with the PjBL learning model is 1.490, PBL is 1.250 and inquiry learning is 0.333. According to the average effect size results obtained for LKPD of 1.878, module of 1.818, and LKP of 1.503, this study examines the impact of STEM on the media. The average effect size score was obtained for higher order thinking skills (HOTS) for problem solving skills of 1.699, critical thinking skills of 1.899, scientific literacy abilities of 1.126, concept understanding of 0.997, and creative thinking abilities of 0.951. According to the findings of the effect size study, STEM learning is appropriate for use at the junior high school level with the PjBL learning approach using LKPD learning media to strengthen students' critical thinking skills.
The contribution of the ILESSI-DCF Model to promote creative thinking skills of Madrasah Aliyah (MA) students
Authors: Khoiri Ahmad , Affandi Achmad , Sedon Mohd Fauzi , Ahmad Che Nidzam Che , Agussuryani Qori , Ni'mah Ayu Mar'ati Barokatun
Published: April 2023

Dieng Culture Festival (DCF) is considered as the symbol of cultural wealth owned by the local people of Wonosobo, Central Java Province, Indonesia. The reconstruction of indigenous knowledge (indigenious science) of Dieng Plateau people is hardly integrated into science learning. Meanwhile, creative thinking skills as a demand for 21st century skills are urgently needed in students' lives. One of the learning models recommended by the 2013 curriculum is the inquiry lesson model. The ILESSI-DCF (Inquiry Lesson Based Ethno Socioscientific Issues-Dieng Culture Festival) model is an inquiry model constructed with the Socioscientif Issues (SSI) strategy and an ethnoscientific approach. This study aims to analyze the contribution of the ILESSI-DCF (Confrontation, Observation, Recognition, Explanation, Application) syntax in promoting creative thinking skills. The research method used quasi-experimental with the type of independent sample t-statistical design. The research sample consisted of two MA (Madrasah Aliyah) namely MA A, totaling 60 students (experimental group 29 students, control group 31 students), and MA B totaling 64 (sixty four) students (experimental group 32 students, control group 32 students). The data collection method used creative thinking skills test questions. The data analysis technique used SPSS 25.0 on the MANOVA test to analyze the extent to which each syntax of the ILESSI-DCF Model contributed. The results showed that the overall contribution of each syntax of the ILESSI-DCF Model was effective in promoting creative thinking skills. The contribution of the ILESSI-DCF Model syntax has the greatest contribution to syntax 3, namely the reconstruction of students in MA A with a mean of 12.10 when compared to the other syntaxes, while the lowest contribution to syntax 1 Confrontation in MA B with 9.68. The results of the ILESSI-DCF Model syntax contribution very diverse and being influenced by differences in students' cultural backgrounds in reconstructing science action. The implications of research into the contribution of the ILESSI-DCF Model syntax to the ability to reconstruct people's original science into scientific knowledge is very important for realizing character education that respects diversity through the creative thinking skills of MA students.
Low-logistic erosion control methodologies
Authors: Shannon Jameson
Published: April 2023

This paper provides an in-depth review of certain slope stability practices discussed in ERDC/GSL TR-19-44, a technical report titled Erosion Control of Earth Covered Magazines to Maintain Minimum Cover Requirements. At the request of the sponsor, US Army Engineering and Support Center, this document specifically focuses on cost-efficient, low-logistic methods of erosion control such as shotcrete and spray-applied stabilizers.