bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coherent control of polarization transformation of Bloch surface waves
Authors: Wei Jin-Zhi , Wang Jin-Hao , Chen Jun-Xue ,   College of Science, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, China
Published: August 2023

The coherent excitation of optical device through the interference effect of multiple beam provides a practical way to enhance the degree of real-time control of the optical response of device. In this work, the coherent control of polarization transformation of Bloch surface wave supported by dielectric multilayer is studied. The grooves are introduced into the top layer of the dielectric multilayer to achieve the polarization transformations of Bloch surface wave. Two coherent beams of Bloch surface waves are incident on the grooves from the left side and the right side of the structure, respectively. The polarization transformation efficiency of Bloch surface wave can be controlled in real time by designing the phase difference of polarization transformation coefficients and the phase delay of the incident coherent beams. Moreover, the output ports of polarization transformation of Bloch surface waves can be selectively excited. By using the proposed method, the controllable port transmission of Bloch surface wave related polarization component can be achieved. In this work, the design of phase difference from the polarization transformation coefficients is achieved by changing the separation distance of grooves. The predicted polarization transformation phenomena under the excitation of coherent beams are evidenced by the rigorous electromagnetic simulation. The research results have potential applications in on-chip integration of photonic circuitry.
DGRPool, a web tool leveraging harmonized Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel phenotyping data for the study of complex traits
Authors: Gardeux Vincent , Bevers Roel PJ , David Fabrice PA , Rosschaert Emily , Rochepeau Romain , Deplancke Bart
Published: August 2023

Genome-wide association studies have advanced our understanding of complex traits, but studying how a GWAS variant can affect a specific trait in the human population remains challenging due to environmental variability. Drosophila melanogaster is in this regard an excellent model organism for studying the relationship between genetic and phenotypic variation due to its simple handling, standardized growth conditions, low cost, and short lifespan. The Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel (DGRP) in particular has been a valuable tool for studying complex traits, but proper harmonization and indexing of DGRP phenotyping data is necessary to fully capitalize on this resource. To address this, we created a web tool called DGRPool (dgrpool.epfl.ch), which aggregates phenotyping data of 1034 phenotypes across 135 DGRP studies in a common environment. DGRPool enables users to download data and run various tools such as genome-wide (GWAS) and phenome-wide (PheWAS) association studies. As a proof-of-concept, DGRPool was used to study the longevity phenotype and uncovered both established and unexpected correlations with other phenotypes such as locomotor activity, starvation resistance, desiccation survival, and oxidative stress resistance. DGRPool has the potential to facilitate new genetic and molecular insights of complex traits in Drosophila and serve as a valuable, interactive tool for the scientific community.
Corticotropin Releasing Factor in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis modulates the behavioral consequences of unpredictable threat
Authors: Hon Olivia J. , Flanigan Meghan E. , Roland Alison V. , Caira Christina M. , Sides Tori , D’Ambrosio Shannon , Lee Sophia , Simpson Yolanda , Buccini Michelle , Machinski Samantha , Yu Waylin , Boyt Kristen M. , Kash Thomas L.
Published: August 2023

Fear is a protective response to perceived danger that allows an organism to identify and respond to threats to avoid harm. Though fear is critical for survival, excessive fear can impede normal biological processes; thus, accurate risk assessment is key for well-being. Here we investigate the neural underpinnings of two distinct behavioral states: phasic and sustained fear. Phasic fear is considered an adaptive response and is characterized by response to a clear and discrete cue that dissipates rapidly once the threat is no longer present. Conversely, sustained fear or anxiety is a heightened state of arousal and apprehension that is not clearly associated with specific cues and lasts for longer periods of time. Here, we directly examine the contribution of BNST CRF signaling to phasic and sustained fear in male and female mice using a partially reinforced fear paradigm to test the overarching hypothesis that plasticity in BNST CRF neurons drive distinct behavioral responses to unpredictable threat in males and females.
Gle1 is required for tRNA to stimulate Dbp5 ATPase activity in vitro and to promote Dbp5 mediated tRNA export in vivo
Authors: Rajan Arvind Arul Nambi , Asada Ryuta , Montpetit Ben
Published: August 2023

Cells must maintain a pool of processed and charged transfer RNAs (tRNA) to sustain translation capacity and efficiency. Numerous parallel pathways support the processing and directional movement of tRNA in and out of the nucleus to meet this cellular demand. Recently, several proteins known to control messenger RNA (mRNA) transport were implicated in tRNA export. The DEAD-box Protein 5, Dbp5, is one such example. In this study, genetic and molecular evidence demonstrates that Dbp5 functions parallel to the canonical tRNA export factor Los1.
In vivo
co-immunoprecipitation data further shows Dbp5 is recruited to tRNA independent of Los1, Msn5 (another tRNA export factor), or Mex67 (mRNA export adaptor), which contrasts with Dbp5 recruitment to mRNA that is abolished upon loss of Mex67 function. However, as with mRNA export, overexpression of Dbp5 dominant-negative mutants indicates a functional ATPase cycle and that binding of Dbp5 to Gle1 is required by Dbp5 to direct tRNA export. Biochemical characterization of the Dbp5 catalytic cycle demonstrates the direct interaction of Dbp5 with tRNA (or double stranded RNA) does not activate Dbp5 ATPase activity, rather tRNA acts synergistically with Gle1 to fully activate Dbp5. These data suggest a model where Dbp5 directly binds tRNA to mediate export, which is spatially regulated via Dbp5 ATPase activation at nuclear pore complexes by Gle1.
Aberrant cortical activity, functional connectivity, and neural assembly architecture after photothrombotic stroke in mice
Authors: Bandet Mischa Vance , Winship Ian Robert
Published: August 2023

Despite substantial progress in mapping the trajectory of network plasticity resulting from focal ischemic stroke, the extent and nature of changes in neuronal excitability and activity within the peri-infarct cortex of mice remains poorly defined. Most of the available data have been acquired from anesthetized animals, acute tissue slices, or infer changes in excitability from immunoassays on extracted tissue, and thus may not reflect cortical activity dynamics in the intact cortex of an awake animal. Here, in vivo two-photon calcium imaging in awake, behaving mice was used to longitudinally track cortical activity, network functional connectivity, and neural assembly architecture for 2 months following photothrombotic stroke targeting the forelimb somatosensory cortex. Sensorimotor recovery was tracked over the weeks following stroke, allowing us to relate network changes to behavior. Our data revealed spatially restricted but long-lasting alterations in somatosensory neural network function and connectivity. Specifically, we demonstrate significant and long-lasting disruptions in neural assembly architecture concurrent with a deficit in functional connectivity between individual neurons. Reductions in neuronal spiking in peri-infarct cortex were transient but predictive of impairment in skilled locomotion measured in the tapered beam task. Notably, altered neural networks were highly localized, with assembly architecture and neural connectivity relatively unaltered a short distance from the peri-infarct cortex, even in regions within ‘remapped’ forelimb functional representations identified using mesoscale imaging with anaesthetized preparations 8 weeks after stroke. Thus, using longitudinal two-photon microscopy in awake animals, these data show a complex spatiotemporal relationship between peri-infarct neuronal network function and behavioral recovery. Moreover, the data highlight an apparent disconnect between dramatic functional remapping identified using strong sensory stimulation in anaesthetized mice compared to more subtle and spatially restricted changes in individual neuron and local network function in awake mice during stroke recovery.
The songbird lateral habenula projects to dopaminergic midbrain and is important for normal vocal development
Authors: Roeser Andrea , Teoh Han Kheng , Chen Ruidong , Cohen Itai , Goldberg Jesse
Published: August 2023

Mistakes in performance feel disappointing, suggesting that brain pathways for aversive feedback may play a role in motor learning. Here we tested if the lateral habenula (LHb), an evolutionarily conserved part of the limbic system known in mammals to relay aversive feedback from ventral pallidum (VP) to ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine neurons, is involved in birdsong learning and production. By combining viral tract tracing and functional circuit mapping, we discovered that songbird LHb links VP and an auditory cortical area to singing-related DA neurons that signal song errors. As in mammals, VP stimulation activated LHb activity and LHb stimulation suppressed DA firing. To test this pathway’s role in learning we lesioned the LHb in juvenile zebra finches and recorded their songs in adulthood. Birds with the LHb lesioned as juveniles produced highly unusual vocalizations as adults, including prolonged high-pitch notes and species-atypical trills. These findings identify a songbird VP-LHb-VTA pathway with similar functional connectivity as mammals, expand the known territories of vocal learning circuits, and demonstrate that limbic circuits associated with disappointing outcomes are important for motor performance learning.
U-tube Steam Generator Fault Detection Using Fuzzy Model
Authors: Ahmad Zuheir
Published: August 2023

In safety critical system like power plant system, the problem of detecting the occurrence of faults is of paramount importance due to their disastrous consequences. To allow efficient performance under different operating conditions, a power plant system requires the integration of many subsystems.This results in a complex system which will inevitably be subjected to faults caused by actuators, sensors or subsystems faults during operation. One of the major subsystems, in power plant is U-tube Steam Generator (UTSG). This paper is concerned with Fault Detection and Isolation (FDI) of UTSG system using fuzzy model. These methods aims at checking the consistency between observed and predicted behaviour by residuals. When an inconsistency is detected between the measured and predicted behaviours obtained using a faultless system model, a fault can be indicated. Simulation results presented in the final part of the paper confirm the effectiveness of this approach.
Quantifying in Situ Horizontal Stress in the Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria
Authors: O Adewole E. , Healy D.
Published: August 2023

We have determined the direction and the magnitude of the two horizontal stress components (minimum and maximum) in the Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria from petroleum exploration data from the region. Faults interpreted from a high fold 3D seismic data imply a dominant normal faulting regime. It suggests that maximum horizontal stress (SHmax) is an intermediate principal stress in the basin. The magnitude of the horizontal stress is quantified by two methods: as a function of vertical stress and as a function of overpressure at depth. The scattering of SHmin values estimated from application of the Eaton (1969) method and Leak Off Test (LOT) data is indicative of the SHmin gradient varying with depth in the basin. We propose an inhomogeneous stress field and more than one source of stress in the region based on the result of multiple directions determined from the analysis of 32 borehole breakouts recorded in six wells. We suggest the occurrence of repeated earth tremors in the region is likely to be due to the reactivation of rifted continental crust linking the regional onshore faults along major lineaments.
Analog Mars Rover Service as a Robotic Hardware and Team Building Platform
Authors: Meszyński Sebastian , Józefowicz Mateusz
Published: August 2023

Magma White is an analog Mars rover platform created by ABM SE and offered to the developers of scientific equipment built for space exploration missions, who want to test their devices at low- and mid- Technology Readiness Levels in demanding conditions of desert, Alpine and polar regions or artificial environments. The rover offers a remote access to the payload through the Magma White mission control system. The paper summarizes the background of the analog solution. It covers universal interfacing setup and issues related to the team and technological partners, who supply elements of the payloads. Two analog missions provide a case study: Dachstein 2012, when “WISDOM” ground penetrating radar for Exomars was tested onboard Magma White, and Morocco 2013, with “L.I.F.E.” payload and complete remote access from Europe.
Analysis of the Breakdown and Electrical Arc in the Process of Switching on
Authors: Kolimas Łukasz
Published: August 2023

Switching on current in an electric circuit occurs hence not due to securing the contact of contacts, but as a result of electric break down of the isolation of the given environment. The switching-on arc glowing time depends hence on the value of the intensity of electric field in the contact area, and on the velocity of contacts closing. The paper describes the analysis of the electrical fields and problems of the arc switching time in contact switches during making of a current in current paths and test.
Energy Recovery from Polyethylene Terephthalate(PET) Recycling Process
Authors: Radin Mohamed Radin Maya Saphira , Gazala Sanusi Misbah  , Wurochekke Anwaruddin Ahmed , Mohd. Kassim Amir Hashim bin
Published: August 2023

Solid waste generation especially from plastics increase every year due to the current consumption habit in the society. The improper disposal of plastics has been a major concern to environment as they are not easily degradable. In this study, energy derived from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic bottle recycling process were studied. Raw and used PET samples were produced by using injection moulding machine. The amount of energy recovered upon production was calculated by using Universal Testing Machine. The effect of temperature and pressure during production on raw and used PET plastics were measured. Temperature at 260 °C and 7 Mpa pressure gave highest energy production. The results of raw and used PET samples exhibit comparable amount of energy 0.8J and 2.044 x 10-4MJ/Kg - 2.0635 x 10-4MJ/Kg respectively. Generally, used PET (260°C and 6 Mpa) were to be reprocessed to regain the significant energy production that are lost upon discarding. Mechanical tests were conducted on the PET and were compared with HDPE to study the temperature effect on the mechanical properties. PET show decrement of average hardness value 8.99 % after filled with hot water at 100 °C. The increased of hot water filling temperature subsequently reduced the tensile strength and hardness value for both HDPE and PET. From this experiment, it is expected that energy recovery derived through the PET recycling can be optimized as part of an integrated waste management strategy.
Communication in Automotive Networks Illustrated with an Example of Vehicle Stability Program: Part I - Control Area Network
Authors: Elżbieta Grzejszczyk
Published: August 2023

The design of DAS (Direct Adaptive Steering) systems has been used in aviation for a long time. A few months ago a Japanese automotive company, Nissan Motor Co, for the first time introduced a steer-by-wire (no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels of the car) solution - to the automotive world in their Infiniti Q50 car. This article aims to explain the issues related to controlling the car automation system, in which one of the control parameters is the examined turn of the wheels assigned by the driver (or the DAS system).
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Supervision based on CAN network: Part II
Authors: Elżbieta Grzejszczyk
Published: August 2023

High reliability and velocity of on-board computers (CAN+, FlexRay) enable monitoring and controlling, in real time, various events related to vehicle motion. This article includes an example of control process related to ESP (Electronic Stability Program) subsystem.

Concise ESP performance curve is followed by description of system control based on the controllers and CAN bus. At the end, an example of low-power actuator system control versus parameters requested with keyboard or random number generator, which simulates events in real time, is described.
Overpowering environmental inconsistencies during NPD activity ensures sustainability.
Authors: Kazmi Asiya , Naarananoja Marja
Published: August 2023

Reality remarks that the companies are not remote from their environments; their new product development (NPD) strategy is altered by several factors. These can either be inherent from the company’s external environment such as Industry market, Government policy, competitors or the internal environment which relate to the company strategy, organization, culture etc. Innovation is the core activity that guaranties a sustainable place in the market for research and development companies nowadays. Developing new or enhancing previous products capability and features are among innovation’s forms that allow companies to diversify their portfolios and respond to their customers’ needs. Numerous theoretical and empirical studies are trying to delineate the most critical success factors for the NPD activity and establish a pattern that would be suitable to reflect the NPD requirements and constraints to achieve better performances. The literature dealt with the performance of NPD activity and tried, in that sense, to come up with a framework of metrics in order to quantify the NPD performances. Taking into consideration the above mentioned success factors, the conclusion confirmed that the most suitable NPD configuration can be established on a case-to-case basis.
A Finite Element Approach to the Möhr-Coulomb and Kupfer-Hilsdorf-Rusch Concrete Failure Criteria in Tension
Authors: Han A. L. , Sukamta  , Indriyantho B. R.
Published: August 2023

Over the years, the failure envelope of plain concrete has been studied and constructed by various researchers. Since concrete is a non-homogeneous material, its behavior under bi-axial stresses is not as straight forward as steel. Also, the assumption that concrete exhibits an isotropic behavior under loading is not completely true since the failure mode due to tension and compression differs significantly. This research work looked into the correctness of the two most known failure criteria; the Mӧhr-Coulomb (MC) and the Kupfer-Hilsdorf-Rusch (KHR) envelope. In reaching the goal, a Finite Element Model (FEM) was constructed, and a plain concrete beam subjected to flexure was run through the program for a range of concrete compressions strengths. To validate the FEM program, the resulting load-displacement curves were calibrated to experimentally tested specimens. The load-displacement response and the stress-strain behavior at the beam’s center-line up till failure, was recorded for analyze purposes. This research work was conducted at the Structural and Material Laboratory, Diponegoro University in Semarang, Indonesia.
Archaeology versus Urban Development in Cartagena
Authors: Vázquez Francisco Segado , Albendín José Manuel Maciá
Published: August 2023

Archaeology has taught us what our origins are, but frequently it works in an independent way, avoiding any kind of collaboration with other disciplines such as Urban Development. Most often, archaeologists, managed by different government bodies, tend to work independently of urban planners. This system has led to archeologists getting the recognition for their discoveries while at the same time depriving society of the knowledge of the cities origin. As a consequence, urban development cannot fulfill its role. The fact that archeological and urban development projects are carried out separately is the main reason for the absence of any relationship between current town planning in the cities and old and buried urban planning. As a result, society is the loser in a battle in which there are no winners.

In Cartagena (Spain), Pedro A. San Martín (1921-2013), an architect, a member of the Department of Fine Arts of the Ministry of Culture, Local commissioner of Archaeological Excavations and Director of the Municipal Archaeological Museum of Cartagena, developed a multi-layered approach (technical and urban) in the pursuit of one central objective: the revaluation of the city in its entirety. He tried to be an architect among archaeologists, learning the methods and ways in which archaeologists worked, and also an archaeologist among architects, trying to explain to them how they had to coordinate their discoveries in order to achieve a viable relationship between the old and the new city in Cartagena. His efforts are a great example of how both disciplines should be combined.
Strengthening of masonry using natural fibers bonding with highly deformable adhesives
Authors: Kwiecień Arkadiusz
Published: August 2023

Strengthening of cracked masonries of poor construction using composite materials of high strength and stiff adhesives of low deformability, like lime and cement mortars or epoxy resins, does not increase significantly the capacity of masonries in seismic areas. This is because of the stress concentration occurrence. The use of highly deformable materials as adhesive and matrix allows reducing peaks of stress concentration in weak brittle substrates, causing increase of composite strengthening efficiency.

In the paper, there were tested masonry units (bricks Rosso Vivo - A6R55W) strengthened by GFRP, BFRP, CFRP and BBFRP fibers bonded on epoxy resin and highly deformable polymer PS. The Single Lap Shear Test was used for comparison of stiff and deformable matrix and adhesive materials, bonding various fibers to the brittle substrate. The significant strength increase of the tested masonry specimens was obtained in the case of the use of highly deformable interface materials than of barely deformable bonding materials. Lower level of the shear stress in the substrate results in increasing of load capacity of masonries, thus applying of the highly deformable polymer PS as a matrix and an adhesive to the weak masonry substrate is more advantageous than classically using stiff epoxy adhesives. It was confirmed by other laboratory and insitu tests, in which GFRP and BFRP grids bonded on the polymer PS adhesive were applied for strengthening of masonry and concrete structural elements.
Improvement of Sound Insulation Performance of ALC Walls Using Mock-up Experiments
Authors: Haan Chan H. , Hong Seong S.
Published: August 2023

Multi-unit dwelling has comprised the largest part of living in modern society where noise problems have become a social issue. Autoclaved lightweight concrete (ALC) panel and blocks have been widely used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings as its lightness and workability. However, the sound insulation performance of ALC is not high due to its light weight and the porousness. This study aimed to improve the sound insulation performance of ALC walls between housing units by changing the structure of the walls including layer of material, thickness of the air cavity, and connecting materials. In order to this, computer modeling and laboratory mock-up tests were undertaken to measure the STC of four different structures. As a result, the single-number quantities (Rw+C) of 61-68 dB, the first grade of sound insulation performance, can be acquired when ALC blocks were constructed with gypsum board and air cavity connected with metal or resilient channel.
Optimation of Electrical Energy Generation for Low Rise Office Building with Folding-BIPV Concept
Authors: Susan
Published: August 2023

BIPV is an architectural concept that related to energy contribution. The system has functions of producing electricity as well as building form giver. The effectivity of BIPV depends on solar radiation received. Meanwhile, the solar radiation received depends on numbers of solar receiving area and environmental shading. Environmental shading will decrease the effectivity of BIPV. But, integrated configuration of folding-BIPV is expected to create more numbers of solar receiving area. The integrated configuration of folding-BIPV will create optimum BIPV, both in electrical generation and building form giver. Experiment to low rise office building in tropical climate is done by giving folding treatment. The experiment also considers about environmental shading. Evaluation is done by analyzing and optimizing the numbers and uniformity of solar radiation received. Simulation with ARCHIPAK 5.1 is used as experimental research tool. The simulation is used to calculate annual radiation received (kWh/m2) from folding-BIPV configuration. Manual calculation is used to calculate total annual radiation received (kWh) and uniformity percentage. Gradient diagram is used to do the optimation. Result of this research is an optimation of electrical energy generation in low rise office building which use folding-BIPV concept.
Assessment and Data-Based Decisions in Contemporary Classrooms
Authors: Rao Dr. Shaila M.
Published: August 2023

In the United States, the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) in 2001 and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 2004 have together made it possible for students with diverse educational needs to be educated in general education classrooms. To be able to address students’ needs efficiently and effectively, teachers need to collect data on students’ current level of performance, design instruction using evidence-based strategies, implement instruction, and make data-based decisions to evaluate effectiveness of their instruction by continuously monitoring student achievement. Using four hypothetical cases, this paper illustrates use of curriculum-based measurement (CBM), a research validated approach, to assess and progress monitor students’ performance in reading and mathematics, and also illustrates with examples how the process can help teachers make required data-based decisions during the progress monitoring phase.
The Social Networking Sites (SNS) Facebook and OpenStudy as Student Learning Forum
Authors: Chia Janet
Published: August 2023

Even though the popularity of Social Networking Sites has proliferated over the years, however, its educational affiliation has gone largely unexplored. Therefore, this paper primarily examined how information was communicated on the Social Networking Sites (SNS), Facebook and OpenStudy, as part of Liverpool John Moores University Summer Semester 2012 Mass Communication students’ learning experience. It studied the effect of students’ educational usage of Social Networking Sites, the way in which students’ learning resources were shared and exchanged online in a Facebook closed group named “LJMU Mass Comm Union’12”. The appeal and motivational strategies adopted by Social Networking Sites through elements of edutainment which ’repackaged’ online learning as a fun and leisure activity was also considered.
Teaching the Structures of Academic Writing through Peer Review: A Study on the Beginners of English Language Courses at BRAC University
Authors: Chowdhury Md. Aftab Uddin , Akteruzzaman Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Substantial peer feedback of the students through peer review in the context of EFL or ESL can help them become skilled at different structures and strategies of academic writing in English rather than receiving feedback from teachers in the classroom. However, most of the students at English language classes in Bangladesh do not appreciate the significance of following the structures of academic writing from the lectures of the respective teachers immediately. On the other hand, most of the English language instructors in their classes are not used to encouraging their students to provide peer feedback through peer review. Therefore, this paper will be focusing on the issues regarding how peer review can be utilized for the beginners of English language courses in terms of making them aware of the structures of academic writing. Moreover, this paper will make an attempt to find out whether peer review makes them a better writer, a more rational thinker or a more critical appreciator of peers’ writings. At last, this paper will present some recommendations on how peer review can develop the students’ creativity while producing thought provoking and critical comments on their peers’ writing.
Empirical Study on the Use of Chinese Fantasy Novel for Vocabulary Acquisition among the Non-Native Learners of Mandarin
Authors: Bok Check Meng , Goh Ying Soon
Published: August 2023

This article discussed the use of Chinese fantasy novel for vocabulary acquisition among the non-native learners of Mandarin. Research findings have been affirmative.
Evolução do FUNDEB e sua constitucionalização permanente: percepções epistemológicas e os benefícios acadêmicos, sociais e econômicos
Authors: De Souza Ivan Braga
Published: August 2023

O presente artigo trata da evolução do Fundo de Manutenção e Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica e de Valorização dos Profissionais da Educação (FUNDEB) e sua constitucionalização permanente em 2020. Desde sua implementação em 2007, em substituição ao FUNDEF, o FUNDEB tem sido fundamental para a redistribuição de recursos para a educação básica pública brasileira. Analisa a evolução do FUNDEB na perspectiva de uma percepção epistemológica, explanando os princípios filosóficos que fundamentam a efetividade da busca da igualdade de condições na área educacional, identificando os principais benefícios acadêmicos, sociais e econômicos para a sociedade e sua importância para à educação básica pública. O percurso metodológico da pesquisa considera a abordagem qualitativa, com a revisão da literatura e a análise de documentos oficiais. Com base na técnica de Bardin, a análise documental contempla três fases da análise de conteúdo: a pré-análise, a exploração do material e o tratamento dos resultados, inferências e interpretação. Os resultados apontam para melhorias na inclusão educacional e o esforço em prol de uma educação satisfatória, nas mais variadas regiões do país, com os impactos do financiamento da educação pública do Brasil.
Comparison of the application of intra-articular and intravenous tranexamic acid to reduce blood loss during primary total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Genç Ahmet Serhat , Arar Korkut , Agar Anıl , Güzel Nizamettin
Published: August 2023

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is frequently administered intravenously because it is recognized as a safe and effective procedure. This study's objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous and intra-articular TXA treatments in patients who have had primary unilateral knee joint replacement. Patients were divided into groups based on TXA applications. Group A patients, those who received intravenous TXA, Group B patients, those who received intraarticular TXA, and Group C patients were intended to serve as the control group. Age, gender, ASA scores, length of hospital stay, preoperative, postoperative, and discharge hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, and the quantity of blood product transfusion given to the patients was analyzed retrospectively. Analysis of the patient’s postoperative Hb values revealed that group C patients had lower Hb values (p < 0.05). Postoperative Hct levels were also seen to be significantly lower in group C individuals (p < 0.05). When the patients' Hb levels were measured at discharge, it was discovered that group C patients had lower Hb levels (p < 0.05). The Hct values of group C patients at discharge were also found to be considerably lower (p < 0.05). It was found that group C patients received significantly more blood transfusions than the other groups (p < 0.05) when the number of patient blood transfusions was compared between the groups. Intravenous and intra-articular TXA successfully minimize blood loss in primary TKA. The benefits of intra-articular administration over intravenous administration include convenience of administration, local application, and a higher level of safety.
Application of the poisson distribution in the prediction of the number of defects in a textile factory
Authors: Da Costa Junior Ademir Martins , De Barros José Glênio Medeiros , De Almeida Maria da Glória Diniz , De Carvalho Cleginaldo Pereira , Sampaio Nilo Antonio de Souza
Published: August 2023

A problem faced by the product development community is the probabilistic prediction of the number of defects per square meter in industrial processes. This work presented a calculation made by the software Minitab 19, in a company in the South of Rio de Janeiro State, in which the number of defects per square meter in a textile factory was calculated and discussed.
Prevalence of Hepatitis D Virus among Hepatitis B Positive Blood Donors in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Nwika Goodnews Nkabari , Awortu Jeremiah Zaccheus , Mgbeoma Eze Evelyn
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The Prevalence of Hepatitis D Virus among Blood Donors   in Port Harcourt, Nigeria is a maiden epidemiological study of   Hepatitis D or delta hepatitis among the donors’ population in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Hepatitis D (Hepatitis Delta) is a disease caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). It is considered to be a sub viral satellite because it can propagate only in the presence of the hepatitis B virus. The prevalence of HDV in Port Harcourt has not been reported; hence this study, bridge that knowledge gap.

Methods: Using a qualitative cross sectional study design, a general serological screening test was performed on a total of 300 blood donors recruited; 222(74.00%) males and 78 (26.00%) females, all within 20-59years. Of this number, 86(28.70%) were positive for HBV while 214(71.30%) Hepatitis B negative served as control. Samples collected were analysed at blood bank unit of the Haematology Department of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt (RSUTH). Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and anti-hepatitis D antibodies (anti-HDV) for the presence of HBV and HDV infections were detected by one step Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in serum, and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of HDV as described by the www.elabScience.com (16).

Results: Of the 300 subjects, 86(28.6%) were positive for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Of these HBV positive subject, 9(10.4%) were positive for Hepatitis D virus (HDV). Age and gender of the study participants were not found to be risk factors for its prevalence (p > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the PCV of those infected when compared with the non infected group. Using Pearson correlation analysis, HDV was not found to associate significantly with PCV (r = 0.2849, p > 0.05). This study recorded HDV prevalence rate of 10.4% among the HBsAg positive blood donors.

Conclusion and Implications for Translation: There is a 10.4% prevalence of HDV among the HBsAg positive blood donors. To increase the safety level of blood products, the screening process should therefore be extended to the HDV.
Magneto‐Optical Properties of Electron Gas in a Chain of Planar Quantum Rings: Effect of Screening on the Signature of Quantum Phase Interference
Authors: Harutyunyan Armen , Mughnetsyan Vram , Kirakosyan Albert , Gudmundsson Vidar
Published: January 2025

The equilibrium properties and interminiband transitions for Hartree‐interacting 2D electron gas in a 1D chain of planar quantum rings subjected to a transverse homogeneous magnetic field are examined. The proposed analytical models for the modulation potential and the basis wave‐function reflect the symmetry and the topology of the system allowing to get high accuracy results. The calculated dependencies of the electronic band structure versus magnetic field show two detached minibands in the region of low energies, while higher minibands manifest crossings and anticrossings. The existence of highly degenerate energy levels (miniband nodes) for certain values of magnetic field is revealed. The miniband nodes are preserved when taking into account the Coulomb interaction of the electrons. The interaction causes both an upward shift and broadening of minibands, while also shifting the nodes to higher magnetic fields. The miniband nodes have their signature in the magnetization of the electron gas and in the interminiband transitions. The number of electrons per a unite cell of the system has a strong impact on the current density distribution, magnetization and the oscillator strength. The obtained results open new opportunities for a flexible manipulation of magneto‐optical properties of future devices operating in far‐infrared and THz regimes.
Optimization of Culture Medium Ingredients and Culture Conditions for Bacteriocin Production in Lactococcus lactis NCU036019
Authors: Wei Ziqi , Fan Pengrong , Li Bo , Madjirebaye Philippe , Peng Zhen , Xiong Tao
Published: January 2025

Bacteriocin lactococcin036019 was identified and characterized from Lactococcus lactis NCU036019, which displayed significant antibacterial activity toward foodborne pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus under various conditions. However, the in situ low‐level expression of lactococcin036019 severely limited its wide application in food industry. In this study, we optimized the medium ingredients and culture conditions of L. lactis NCU036019 for maximum production of lactococcin036019. The effects of different carbon sources, nitrogen sources, inorganic salts, growth factors, surfactants, and buffer salts on the production of bacteriocin were studied using antibacterial titer and diameter of inhibitory zone as evaluation indexes. Through single‐factor experiments, Plackett‐Burman (PB) experiment, steepest ascent experiment and response surface methodology, yeast extract, zinc sulfate, sodium acetate, mannitol, Tween‐80, and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate were identified to display significant influence on the production of bacteriocin. By optimizing Man Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) culture medium ingredients, the antibacterial activity of lactococcin036019 in the cell‐free supernatant raised from 46.19 to 300.14 Au/mL, namely, 6.5 times increased. Furthermore, the culture conditions, such as inoculation amount, culture time, and culture temperature, were optimized, and this further increased the antibacterial activity to 409 Au/mL, namely, 8.8 times increased. This study investigated the effects of culture media and conditions on the production of lactococcin036019, and they were optimized for a maximum harvest of bacteriocin, and the significant increase of bacteriocin production in L. lactis NCU036019 facilitates the application of the antibacterial substance in future work.
An efficient and industrially feasible process for purification and immobilization of orange‐peel‐based lipase for biocatalytic applications
Authors: Ghutake Sahil , Gharge Varunraj , Pawar Hitesh
Published: January 2025

Lipase is an important enzyme with wide industrial applications in various sectors. The present study focuses on the development of an efficient and industrially feasible process for the purification and immobilization of orange‐peel‐based lipase. The integration of ultrafiltration (UF), adsorptive chromatography, and immobilization on synthetic resins offers an efficient method for producing purified, immobilized lipases. Ultrafiltration membranes with varying molecular weight cutoffs were evaluated for concentrating crude lipase. Among the membranes tested, the 5 kDa UF membrane demonstrated over 94% enzyme activity retention. Various microporous adsorbents (hydrophilic, hydrophobic and ion exchange) were tested for removing color impurities from concentrated crude lipase. The hydrophobic adsorbent achieved over 90% removal of color components. Overall, the integration of UF membranes and adsorptive chromatography showed a 2.29‐fold increase in production efficiency. Different microporous adsorbents were tested for the immobilization of purified lipase to produce an immobilized lipase biocatalyst. The use of hydrophobic adsorbents with lower porosity and a larger surface provides maximum binding efficiency (95%). The characterization study of purified lipase was conducted by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE). The purification process yielded a lipase enzyme concentration of 0.28 mg mL−1 with a specific activity of 250.54 U mL−1, achieving an approximately 2.29‐fold increase in purity. This study presents an efficient and industrially viable method for the purification and immobilization of lipases, enabling their use in biocatalytic applications.
Research Advances on Lithium‐Ion Batteries Calendar Life Prognostic Models
Authors: Pan Tao , Li Yujie , Yao Ziqing , Liu Shuangke , Zhu Yuhao , Wang Xuanjun , Wang Jian , Zheng Chunman , Sun Weiwei
Published: January 2025

In military reserve power supplies, there is an urgent need for superior secondary batteries to replace conventional primary batteries, and lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) emerge as one of the best choices due to their exceptional performance. The life of LIBs includes cycle life and calendar life, with calendar life spanning from years to decades. Accurate prediction of calendar life is crucial for optimizing the deployment and maintenance of LIBs in military applications. Model‐based prognostics are usually established to estimate calendar life using accelerated aging methods under various storage conditions. This review firstly outlines the general prognostic workflow for calendar life of LIBs, analyzes degradation mechanisms, and summarizes influencing factors; then, we introduce calendar life prognostic models, evolving from simplistic empirical models (EMs) to nonempirical mechanistic models (MMs) based on LIB calendar aging knowledge and then to traditional hybrid empirical‐mechanistic models (trad‐EMMs). Finally, the data‐driven models (DDMs) based on machine learning (ML) are discussed due to the limitation of the traditional methods, evolving from pure data‐driven to knowledge‐integrated models and establishing a comprehensive framework for calendar life assessment. To the best of our knowledge, this paper presents the first comprehensive review in this field, summarizing calendar life prognostic models of LIBs and offering some insights into future model development directions. Model‐based prognostics can facilitate researchers in calendar aging analysis and calendar life prolongation, thereby better serving the application of LIBs in national economic life.
Effect of Occlusal Scheme and Bone‐Level Implant Number and Position on Stress Distribution in Kennedy Class II Implant‐Assisted Removable Partial Dentures: A 3D Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Barati Solmaz , Ghodsi Safoura , Zeighami Somayeh
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To assess the effect of occlusion and implant number/position on stress distribution in Kennedy Class II implant‐assisted removable partial denture (IARPD).

Materials and Methods

IARPDs were designed in six models: with one implant (bone level with a platform of 4 mm and length of 10 mm) at the site of (I) canine, (II) between first and second premolars, (III) first molar, (IV) second molar, or two implants at the sites of (V) canine‐first molar, and (VI) canine‐second molar. A conventional RPD served as control. Loads were applied according to the group function (GF) (500N load was applied to the left canine/premolar/molar teeth in the ratio of 1:1:2) or canine guidance (CG) (125N load was to the canine tooth) occlusions. Maximum displacement and Von Mises Stress in different components were analyzed by finite element analysis (FEA).

Results

The control model showed the highest displacement followed by the IARPD with a canine implant in both occlusal schemes. In GF, the maximum and minimum jaw stress were recorded in IARPDs with canine implants (16.45 MPa) and canine‐first molar implants (13.47 MPa), respectively. In CG, the maximum and minimum jaw stress was recorded in IARPD with first/second premolar implant (15.91 MPa) and canine‐first molar implants (12.38 MPa), respectively. The highest stress in resin, framework, and implant(s) was noted in IARPD with canine implant in both schemes. The lowest stress in the implant(s) was recorded in IARPD with canine‐second molar implants in GP and IARPD with canine‐first molar implants in CG.

Conclusion

Dental implants reduced the total displacement of IARPDs, increased stress in mechanical components, and did not affect stress distribution in biological components. Insertion of two implants decreased implant stress. The GP scheme caused greater stress on mechanical components.
Left ventricular function improvement during angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor treatment in a cohort of HFrEF/HFmrEF patients
Authors: Appenzeller Florian , Harm Tobias , Sigle Manuel , Aidery Parwez , Kreisselmeier Klaus‐Peter , Baas Livia , Goldschmied Andreas , Gawaz Meinrad Paul , Müller Karin Anne Lydia
Published: January 2025

Aims

Heart failure (HF) patients may lack improvement of left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF) despite optimal HF medication comprising an angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI). Therefore, we aimed to identify key predictors for LV functional enhancement and prognostic reverse cardiac remodelling in HF patients on ARNI treatment.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 294 consecutive patients with HF with reduced (HFrEF) or mildly reduced (HFmrEF) ejection fraction in our ‘EnTruth’ patient registry. LVEF was determined by echocardiography at initiation of ARNI and at 12 months of follow‐up. We assessed the predictive value of clinically relevant patient‐, HF‐ and treatment‐related parameters in regard to changes in LVEF and all‐cause mortality using medoid clustering and the XGBoost machine learning algorithm.

Results

Cluster analysis integrating clinically relevant patient characteristics unveiled four characteristic sub‐phenotypes of patients with HFrEF and HFmrEF, respectively. Distinct clusters exhibit a strong (P < 0.05) therapeutic response to ARNI treatment and enhanced LV function. Key patient criteria, such as duration and aetiology of HF, renal function and de novo ARNI treatment, were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with change of LVEF and independently predicted cardiac remodelling. By training various machine learning models on relevant clinical parameters, stratification of LVEF improvement by XGBoost resulted in a high prediction accuracy. The stratification of patients with HFrEF [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.77] and HFmrEF (AUC = 0.70) led to an increased diagnostic accuracy of LVEF improvement in the validation cohort. Using machine learning, the likelihood of cardiac remodelling following ARNI treatment, as indicated by our newly established EnTruth score, was directly associated with absolute LVEF improvement in both HFrEF (r = 0.51, P < 0.0001) and HFmrEF (r = 0.42, P = 0.001). Ultimately, patients with HFrEF and a high EnTruth score have a lower risk of all‐cause mortality (P < 0.05 in survival analysis).

Conclusions

Recognition of essential clinical factors by integrating machine learning and cluster analyses may help to identify HF patients benefiting from improvement of LVEF following ARNI treatment. Early identification of those patients with a high response to ARNI treatment may allow a more refined selection of patients benefiting from an early escalation of HF treatment or interventional therapy.