bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Properties and Prediction Based on ANN Model of Basalt and Polypropylene Fiber Reinforced Concrete
Authors:   Research Scholar, Dept of Civil and Structural engineering, Annamalai University, India, Manoj D , Purushothaman M
Published: January 2025

Objectives: Utilization of steel fiber increases concrete strength and ductility however, the cost of steel fiber is high and ultimately leads to an increase in the cost of concrete. Basalt fiber is a new type of fiber with high strength and toughness and can effectively replace the place of steel fibers. In this paper, concrete reinforced with polypropylene fibers and basalt fibers was tested for its mechanical properties and compared with the same predicted through a simulated model created by the Artificial Neural Network. Methods: The percentage of polypropylene fiber was kept at 0.25%, and different amounts of basalt fiber were added as 0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%. Based on traditional testing methods compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength of normal concrete, Fiber reinforced concrete and Hybrid fiber reinforced concrete have been found. To forecast the concrete qualities, the model was simulated after the datasets were trained using a neural network fitting tool. Findings: In comparison to concrete that had only 0.25% polypropylene fiber, a hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete mix including 0.5% basalt fiber and 0.25% polypropylene fiber demonstrated a 9.69% improvement in compressive strength. In comparison to the concrete made only of polypropylene, the mix containing 0.25% polypropylene fiber and 0.75% basalt fiber showed a 26.12% increase in flexural strength and a 39.25% increase in split tensile strength. The error percentage between predicted and experimental values is below 10%. Novelty: Utilization of basalt fiber in concrete is very rare and this proposed work focused on the hybridization of basalt fiber in the place of steel fibers, which is prone to corrosion and reduces the cost of material effectively. The concrete's flexural and tensile strengths were significantly increased by the addition of basalt fibers. The mechanical characteristics of hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete are well predicted by the simulated ANN model.

Keywords: Basalt fiber, Polypropylene fiber, Artificial Neural network, Fiber reinforced concrete, Hybridization
Integrative Ensemble Learning Algorithm for Predicting Students’ Performance
Authors:   Research Scholar, PG and Research Department of Computer Science, Jamal Mohamed College (Autonomous), Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620020, TamilNadu, India, Emima A , Amalarethinam D I George
Published: January 2025

Objectives: To create a stable student performance prediction model utilizing ensemble learning methods. Methods: The study uses boosting techniques such as CatBoost, Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) as simple classifiers, which are then combined into a composite classifier to improve predictive accuracy. During the training phase, a 5-level hyperparameter optimization for the basic classifiers is performed using ETLBO Optimization IELA's distinguishing feature is its Stacking ensemble method, which functions as an ensemble technique, combining the expected outcomes of the simple classifiers to build the final prediction model ETLBO algorithm is applied for hyper parameter optimization to discover the best hyperparameters of 28 features from 33 features in the base classifiers to yield the better result in experiment. This approach improves prediction efficiency and accuracy by combining the capabilities of separate models using boosting algorithms and stacking-based ensemble techniques. Findings: Student achievement Dataset in secondary education for Mathematics are taken from Public repository is used in this research work. It comprises features such as student grades, demographic information, social aspects, and school-related data. The working of boosting and stacking approaches with the classifier in the dataset consisting of LightGBM and CatGB are performed higher than those of either classifier when used separately without the ensemble technique. Additionally, CatGB operates substantially better when combined with XGBoost. With an accuracy of 86.43% and an F-score of 84.98%, the composite classifier that combines the three simple classifiers achieves the highest gain. Novelty: This research is unusual to combine the boosting and stacking ensemble techniques, which improves prediction accuracy and efficiency when compared to previous models for predicting student performance.

Keywords: Educational Data Mining, Ensemble Algorithm, Boosting Algorithm, Machine Learning Algorithm, Base Classifier, Composite Classifier
Investigation of the Characterisation Variances of Blended Non-woven Textiles: Banana, Flax and Recycled Cotton
Authors:   Research scholar, Department of Textiles and Apparel Design, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, Sasikala M , Sangeetha K , Kumar B Senthil
Published: January 2025

Objectives: The study examines natural fibers' mechanical and thermal properties, specifically cellulose-based flax and banana fibers. Flax fibers are noted for their low density, high tensile strength, and rigidity, while banana fibers are recognized for their flexural strength and damping properties. However, treatments applied to these composites can negatively affect mechanical performance and surface integrity. The objectives of the research include comparing the properties of both fiber types, enhancing tensile strength through recycled cotton blends, evaluating the micro-structural characteristics of non-woven textiles for potential applications and sustainability, analyzing the elemental composition of nanomaterials, and investigating air permeability in relation to pore structure. Methods: The Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy detector is incorporated into both transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) systems, which are employed for high-energy measurements. The analysis of the air permeability was carried out to evaluate how the pore structure affects its capacity to allow the passage of air/vapours. A testing analysis conducted by SITRA-South Indian Textile Research Association, Coimbatore utilized the Tex-test FX-3300-III, S/n:1198 Air permeability tester, following the guidelines of ASTM D 737-04 (2016) and IS 11056:2013, indicating that the static air permeability strength was notably enhanced. Findings: To determine if nanoparticles were present in the non-woven textiles, the microstructure of the non-wovens was examined at different EDS locations. Various elements were identified at each EDS site within the blended non-woven webs, along with variations in the elements' relative weights, atom counts, and K ratios. In an air permeability test, non-woven-1, made from banana-recycled cotton, exhibited higher values compared to non woven-2, which consisted of flax-recycled cotton. Novelty and applications: This research focuses on creating sustainable textiles by blending varying proportions of banana, flax, and recycled cotton, presenting an alternative to traditional single-fiber textiles. The study also introduces textile waste regeneration as a novel concept. Through the EDS Spots system, elements are identified and compared, offering valuable insights for potential technical applications. Permeability analysis evaluates the pore structure of the composite nonwoven materials, which are recognized as superior substitutes for synthetic glass fibers due to their elevated cellulose content. Their outstanding mechanical and thermal properties make them highly suitable for technical applications in the construction and automobile sectors.

Keywords: Banana/flax fibers, Recycled cotton, Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Air permeability, SEM-Scanning electron microscopy
La psicología de las masas y análisis del yo en el discurso actual
Authors:   Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Dasuky Quiceno Samir Ahmed , Muñiz Gil Oscar Alfredo ,   Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Dávila Betancur Kelly Alejandra ,   Universidad Católica Luis Amigó, Palacio Duque Edison Antonio ,   Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana
Published: January 2025

Freud en Psicología de las masas y análisis del yo reconoce el peligro relacionado a la identificación con el ideal encarnado, que en la masa desemboca en intolerancia, persecución y hasta erradicación de la diferencia, ello fue evidente en la Alemania Nazi con la figura del Fuhrer. En El malestar en la Cultura avizora otro peligro en la organización social de los Estados Unidos que denomina miseria psicológica de la masa, cuyas características pueden asimilarse a lo que Lacan desarrolla como discurso capitalista. Dicho discurso sustrae el amparo de los semblantes que orientan a los sujetos y borra los lugares desde donde hacer lazo social, dejando al sujeto reducido al goce del cuerpo sin el otro, distinto a como era en la masa freudiana. Se concluye que en la actualidad existe una mayor precariedad de los lazos sociales, instaurados por el discurso capitalista que redobla lo imposible de la unión de los cuerpos instaurado por la no proporción sexual.
Hybrid Governance Structures and Monetary Policy: The Legal and Institutional Position of National Central Banks in the Eurosystem
Authors: Dermine Paul , Markakis Menelaos
Published: January 2025

National central banks (NCBs) are an integral part of the European System of Central Banks (ESCB)—a highly integrated system which comprises the ECB and NCBs, and is in charge of monetary policy in the Union. Various (primary) EU law provisions partly Europeanize NCBs, while also preserving their national embeddedness. This article explores the evolving legal and institutional position of the NCBs in the ESCB and the Eurosystem. The NCBs’ hybrid status has proven fertile ground for tensions and has given rise to both centrifugal and centripetal forces in the Eurosystem. The discussion begins with the legal and institutional position of NCBs as established in Maastricht. The focus then shifts to centrifugal forces in the Eurosystem. NCBs can be confronted with conflicting loyalties and duties, which can compromise the singleness and effectiveness of monetary policy. We then turn to consider the emergence of centripetal forces in light of the recent case law of the EU Courts, which, together with the ECB’s actions, has brought about a Europeanization of various aspects of the NCBs’ organization and powers. The penultimate section considers the implications of the NCBs’ institutional repositioning for their independence and accountability. Centripetal pressures can contribute to reinforcing the NCBs’ independence vis-à-vis domestic political authorities and to reducing opportunities for accountability at the national level, which are only partly made up for at the EU level. The concluding section considers whether the developments adumbrated above consecrate a highly Europeanized, agent-like vision of NCBs.
Maastricht Overcome: An Evolving Disconnect Between the ECB’s Power and Independence
Authors: Högenauer Anna-Lena , Mendes Joana
Published: January 2025

In the course of the last two decades, the legitimacy of the European Central Bank (ECB) has withered as monetary policy has become more politicized. This editorial places these debates in the context of the literature on central bank independence. Many critical voices warned—long before the crisis—that the ideal of highly independent central banks with narrow technocratic mandates would not work in the long term and would come under particular pressure during periods of instability. Indeed, after over a decade of ongoing crisis, the ECB’s functions have expanded considerably, which in turn altered its relationship with other institutions and its role in the economic and political system of the European Union. In particular, the ECB’s activities during the eurozone crisis, new debates on whether the ECB should support political goals like the fight against climate change, and its participation in geopolitical stand-offs have brought its political role clearly to the fore. Crucially, this evolution challenges the ECB’s high degree of independence, as decisions that are closely related to political debate also require stronger political (democratic) legitimacy and legal accountability.
Professionally Important Personal Qualities of Psychologists in Modern Foreign Researches
Authors: Odintsova M.A. , Raskhodchikova M.N. , Kuzmina E.I.
Published: January 2025

The article presents an analysis of modern foreign publications devoted to the study of professionally important personal qualities of psychologists, education psychologists and psychologists-consultants. Research has shown the complexity of the professional activity of a psychologist involving the solution of significant psychological issues, often not having clear work patterns. The key tasks that tackle psychologists are outlined: development and implementation of primary and secondary interventions, monitoring of educational and behavioral difficulties, counselling participants of educational environment, development and evaluation of psychological support programs, research activities, continuous improvement and validation of qualifications, work with critical situations. An attempt was made to analyze various approaches in the understanding of foreign researchers of the problem of professional identity. Professional identity is dynamic and variable, formed throughout life, unites emotional-will, value-semantic, personal features, begins with the choice of profession and continues throughout the professional life. The methods of diagnostics of professionally important personal qualities of psychologists developed by foreign researchers are described.
Oxidized low-density lipoproteins and their contribution to atherosclerosis
Authors: Babakr Abdullatif Taha
Published: January 2025

Lipoprotein oxidation is a critical early stage in the development of atherosclerosis, a disease characterized by the formation of plaque in arterial walls. It has been well-established that the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a key factor in the progression of atherosclerosis. Oxidized LDL (Ox-LDL) possesses a range of atherogenic properties, contributing to endothelial dysfunction, foam cell formation, and inflammation within the arterial wall. The interaction between Ox-LDL and specific receptors on endothelial cells plays a crucial role in these processes. In this article, we will discuss the oxidation of LDL and the pro-atherogenic role of Ox-LDL, we will delve into the different types of LDL receptors involved in the uptake and metabolism of LDL, with a focus on their role in atherosclerosis. We will explore the mechanisms by which native LDL (nLDL) and Ox-LDL interact with these receptors, leading to the development and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. Then we will go through more in-depth discussion to explore the intricate role of scavenger receptors in the uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (Ox-LDL) and their significant contribution to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Understanding the intricacies of these receptor-ligand interactions is essential for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to combat atherosclerosis and its associated complications.
Associations between socio-economic, demographic, and anthropometric factors and physical frailty in outpatient patients aged 65 and older: data from the Russian EVKALIPT Study
Authors: Sharashkina Natalya V. , Vorobyeva Natalya M. , Izyumov Andrey D. , Balaeva Madina M.-B. , Sorokina Anastasia V. , Runikhina Nadezhda K. , Kotovskaya Yulia V. , Tkacheva Olga N.
Published: January 2025

Background: Currently, the number of elderly and senile patients is steadily increasing. Physical frailty significantly worsens prognosis in this population, making the evaluation of its relationship with socio-economic, demographic, and anthropometric factors a pertinent area of study.
Aim: To examine the associations between socio-economic, demographic, and anthropometric factors and physical frailty in outpatient patients aged 65 and older.
Materials and methods: A sub-analysis of the EVKALIPT study included 2,553 outpatient patients aged 65 and older (mean age 76.9 years, 32.2% men). Participants were divided into three age subgroups: 65–74 years, 75–84 years, and 85 years and older. A two-stage comprehensive geriatric assessment was conducted: the first stage involved a questionnaire on socio-economic status, and the second stage involved an objective examination using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Physical frailty was defined based on SPPB results as follows: 10–12 points indicated no frailty (“robust” patients), 8–9 points indicated pre-frailty (“pre-frail” patients), and ≤ 7 points indicated physical frailty.
Results: Total SPPB scores ranged from 0 to 12 (median 7, interquartile range 4–9), with the prevalence of physical frailty at 58%. Patients with physical frailty had poorer socio-economic status. Multivariate regression analysis identified eight independent factors associated with physical frailty: age (per year), female sex, absence of a partner, disability, educational level as an ordinal variable (1 to 6, where 1 is no education and 6 is a doctoral degree), past blood donation, continued employment, and material resources as an ordinal variable (1 to 3, where 1 is low and 3 is high).
Conclusions: In outpatient patients aged 65 and older, physical frailty is associated with socio-economic, demographic, and anthropometric factors. High levels of education, past blood donation, continued employment, and high material resources were found to have a protective effect against physical frailty.
Diagnostic overview of nature and pathogenesis of shoulder dislocation
Authors: Ambulgekar Rajesh K. , Gour Ajay A. , Ahire Priyanka T.
Published: January 2025

Background: Shoulder dislocation, soft tissue and bony injuries around shoulder has close relation and hence, detail investigation and diagnosis plays a crucial role in prognosis and further treatment.
Methods: The study of diagnostic arthroscopy aimed to determine the incidence of secondary intra-articular shoulder lesions in acute and chronic anterior shoulder instability patients. Study investigated the occurrence of intra-articular shoulder lesions in a series of 30 patients with acute and chronic traumatic anterior instability.
Results: Prospective observational study was done on patients with acute shoulder dislocation. After ab arthroscopic evaluation, majority 77% of patients had capsulo-labral detachments. 61% of first dislocations showed capsulo-labral detachment/Bankart lesions and all the recurrent dislocations had partial or complete capsule-labral detachment or Bankart lesions. Glenohumeral ligament integrity was disturbed in 58% of recurrent and that of 11% of first time shoulder dislocation cases. Hillsach lesions are in total of 57% of all soft tissue injuries. Bony Bankart lesions were found in 50% of recurrent dislocations. Rotator tears are mainly in recurrent dislocation cases mainly >40 years of age.
Conclusions: Patients with chronic shoulder instability are more likely to have secondary intra-articular lesions, compared to those with acute, likely due to the repeated episodes of dislocation or subluxation. These associated lesions are a consequence of the ongoing instability, which leads to additional damage within the joint. Early intervention plays an important role, as the conditions for surgical intervention are optimal after initial shoulder dislocation.
Age, gender, and site-specific variations in bone mineral density: a cross-sectional analysis of osteoporosis risk factors
Authors: Jagiasi Jairam , Sarukte Vijay , Pandav Karan K. , Jagiasi Deepak , Ghag Niranjan S. , Ghatage Koustubh
Published: January 2025

Background: Osteoporosis is major health issue defined by decreased bone mineral density (BMD) and elevated fracture susceptibility. This study aimed to analyze age, gender, and site-specific variations in BMD and examine osteoporosis risk factors in an Indian population.
Methods: This study was conducted with cross sectional design on 77 participants (54 females, 23 males) aged 20-83 years undergoing 3 Dimensional quantitative computed tomography (QCT) for BMD assessment at a tertiary care hospital in India. BMD measurements of the spine and bilateral hips were analyzed along with demographic and clinical data. Statistical analyses included t-tests, multivariate logistic regression, correlation analysis, and Chi-square tests.
Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of osteoporosis (55.8%) and osteopenia (27.3%). Marked disparities in spine bone mineral density were noted between genders (p=0.023) and among age cohorts (p<0.0001). Age showed moderate negative relationship with spine BMD (r=-0.552, p<0.0001) and was recognized as a major predictor of osteoporosis (p<0.0001). Gender was not a significant predictor of osteoporosis after adjusting for age in our study.
Conclusions: This study highlights the critical role of age in BMD reduction and osteoporosis risk, with older individuals showing higher rates of osteoporosis. While gender differences in BMD were observed, age emerged as the primary predictor of osteoporosis risk. These findings emphasize the importance of age-related assessments in osteoporosis screening and management strategies.
The Impact of Bureaucratic Simplification Policy on Cross-Functional Team Cooperation of the Semarang City Government
Authors: Sari Ratih Aprilia , Raharja Edy
Published: January 2025

Bureaucratic simplification, as part of public administration reform, aims to improve government organizations' efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness. This study analyzes the impact of bureaucratic simplification policies on cross-functional teamwork in the Semarang City Government. Involving 15 respondents (ASN and Non-ASN), data was collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive and inferential techniques. The results of linear regression showed that cross-functional teamwork explained 64.1% variation in policy effectiveness, significantly contributing to the increase in effectiveness (p <.001). These findings suggest that increased cross-functional teamwork can improve the effectiveness of bureaucratic simplification policies, although there are other factors that need to be considered.
Optimizing Information Accessibility and Ease of Mortgage Application: Its Impact on Simple Home Purchase Decisions
Authors: Wardhana Enggar , Soesanto Harry
Published: January 2025

Buying a simple house is often influenced by various factors, including the accessibility of information and the ease of applying for a Home Ownership Loan (KPR). This study aims to analyze the influence of Information Accessibility and Ease of Mortgage Application through marketing strategies on Simple House Purchase Decisions in Balikpapan City. The study used a quantitative method with a survey approach to 200 selected respondents using the purposive sampling technique. The data was analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) assisted by Smart-PLS software. The results showed that Information Accessibility had a significant influence on Simple Home Purchase Decisions (path coefficient 0.630; T-statistic 6,023; p-value 0.000) and for the Ease of Mortgage Application (line coefficient 0.805; T-statistic 22,845; p-value 0.000). The ease of applying for a mortgage also has a significant effect on the Decision to Purchase a Simple House (line coefficient 0.234; T-statistic 1,928; p-value 0.049). An R-square value of 0.618 shows that the research model is able to explain 61.8% of the variability of purchase decisions. These findings underscore the importance of a digital-based marketing strategy that focuses on information transparency and simplifying administrative processes to improve consumer purchasing decisions.
The Action Limit and the Scope of Enforcement Immunity as an Institution of Guaranteeing the Constitutional Right of a Citizen to Housing When Introducing the Procedures Used in a Personal Bankruptcy Case
Authors:   Presiding Judge of the Third Panel of Judges of the Fourth Commercial Court of Appeal, PhD (Law), Korzova Nadezda A.
Published: January 2025

The institution of personal bankruptcy is intended to become a mechanism for finding a certain compromise between the debtor and his creditors, given that the bona fide bankruptcy presupposes that he has a desire to fulfill his obligations which he cannot realize, since he is experiencing difficulties due to the temporary financial crisis due to objective reasons.
Within the framework of this article, some aspects that characterize the development of the practical application by courts reviewing bankruptcy cases, enforcement immunity as an institution of guaranteeing the constitutional right of a citizen to housing are considered. The author concludes that, at present, arbitration courts reviewing bankruptcy cases of individuals have developed sustainable legal approaches to resolving the issue of the scope of “enforcement immunity for housing”, which do not mean restrictions on such a constitutional guarantee, but fully fall within the understanding of the level of housing availability to a citizen, taking into account the need to maintain a balance of interests of persons involved in the bankruptcy process of the debtor.
Powers of Local Governments in Environmental Protection: Some Areas of Concern
Authors:   Senior Lecturer of the Department of Administrative and Municipal Law Named after Professor Vasily M. Manokhin of the Saratov State Law Academy, Vorobyova Dinara S.
Published: January 2025

The article deals with problematic issues of imposing obligations on the management of production and consumption waste on local governments. The materials of judicial practice, in particular, of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation on this aspect, are analyzed. It is concluded that there is a need for a comprehensive legislative solution to these issues.
L’élevage du Tilapia en Afrique. Données techniques sur sa pisciculture en étang
Authors: Lazard Jérome
Published: January 2025

Après une période d'essais et d'erreurs dans les années 1960 et 1970 dans le développement de la pisciculture sur le continent africain, des tentatives ont été faites pour mettre en place des unités de production industrielle de poissons utilisant des techniques d'élevage très intensives, et beaucoup de recherche et de développement ont été orientés vers la mise au point de techniques d'élevage efficaces et pouvant être largement appliquées à la culture en étang.Cet article fait le point sur les travaux menés en Afrique de l'Ouest sur l'élevage en étang du Tilapia. Une méthode satisfaisante consiste à élever Tilapia nilotica en association avec un poisson prédateur. Elle comporte trois phases : la production d'alevins, de sujets destinés à la mise en charge (fingerlings) et de poissons marchands. Les caractéristiques et les performances de chacune d'entre elles sont décrites et l'organisation de l'opération est examinée en fonction des objectifs de production visés.
Hydroliquéfaction de bois tropicaux et d'autres biomasses tropicales
Authors: Doat Jacqueline
Published: January 2025

On a procédé au C.T.F.T. à l'étude de l'hydro liquéfaction de matières premières tropicales. Dans un premier stade, les conditions optimales de la réaction en milieu aqueux et en présence d'hydrogène ont été déterminées sur un Eucalyptus congolais.Le mode opératoire défini a été ensuite appliqué à différents produits : bois tropicaux ayant des caractéristiques chimiques particulières, résidus et déchets de produits agricoles, cellulose et lignines à titre de référence. Ces tests ont montré que la cellulose et les bois riches en cellulose se liquéfiaient plus facilement que la lignine et les bois très lignifiés. A l'inverse, les rendements en goudrons sont plus élevés pour les composés riches en lignine. Les produits obtenus ont une valeur calorifique élevée (plus de 7.000 Kcal/kg) pour la plupart d'entre eux. Ils s'apparentent toutefois plus à des brais qu'à des huiles. Un traitement ultérieur de craquage ou de séparation en différents constituants serait nécessaire si un emploi combustible était envisagé.Des prétraitements du bois avant liquéfaction peuvent amener de petites différences dans les résultats tandis que l'emploi de solvants organiques autres que l'eau conduisent à des produits plus fluides donc plus intéressants. C'est dans ces directions qu'il conviendra de poursuivre ces travaux.
Activités et réunions internationales. L'accord sur les bois tropicaux
Authors: Rédacteur de la revue Bois et Forêts des Tropiques
Published: January 2025

Pas de résumé
Estimation of the total carbon sequestration potential of coconut-gliricidia mixed cropping systems in Sri Lanka
Authors: Nuwarapaksha Tharindu D. , Dilhan R. M. C. P. , Udumann Shashi S. , Ranasinghe C. S. , Egodawatta W. C. P. , Dissanayaka Nuwandhya S. , Raveendra Thilina , Atapattu Anjana J.
Published: January 2025

Offsetting carbon footprints by sequestering carbon through plant biomasses has become a key concern under modern thinking on climate change mitigation. This study aimed to estimate the carbon sequestration capacities of coconut-based gliricidia mixed cropping systems in Sri Lanka and, importantly, to develop an allometric model for non-destructive estimation of carbon. Five major coconut age groups and four major gliricidia age groups were selected to estimate the total carbon stock. The age groups of coconut considered were 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 years, with corresponding carbon stocks of 22.59, 34.99, 53.13, 63.40, and 66.03 Mg[C]ha-1, respectively. In gliricidia stands, carbon stocks were 25.53, 46.16, 83.83, and 106.09 Mg[C]ha-1, respectively, for age groups of 5, 10, 15, and 20 years. It is recommended that gliricidia be introduced as an intercrop in coconut plantations 20 years after the establishment of the latter. For this study, a 30-year-old coconut plantation with a 10-year-old gliricidia intercrop, along with its associated ground cover vegetation and soil carbon stock, were considered the benchmark agroforestry system. In the 30-year-old coconut monocropping system, the total carbon stock was 67.76 Mg[C]ha-1, which consisted of uniform coconut, 1.24 Mg[C]ha-1 from ground cover vegetation and 13.39 Mg[C]ha-1 from the soil carbon stock at a depth of 30 cm. The overall carbon sequestration rate for this monocropping system was 2.25 Mg[C]ha-1yr-1 and abated CO2 in 8.23 Mg[CO2]ha-1yr-1. In the 30-year-old coconut and 10-year-old gliricidia mixed cropping system, the total carbon stock was 114.83 Mg[C]ha-1, which consisted of uniform coconut and Gliricidia, 1.05 Mg[C]ha-1 from ground cover plants, and 14.49 Mg[C]ha-1 from soil carbon stock at a depth of 30 cm. Compared to the coconut monocropping system, the coconut-gliricidia mixed cropping system had a higher carbon sequestration rate of 6.84 Mg[C]ha-1yr-1 and abated CO2 in 25.03 Mg[CO2]ha-1yr-1, which are around three times higher than the monoculture system.
Phase-dependent materials design and characteristic properties of two-dimensional (2D) halide perovskite single crystals for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Lee Su-Min , Lian Mang Muan , Ahn Su-Ho , Yeon Dong-Jun , Jang Younghee , Han EQ , Zhang Yurou , Sul Jung-Hoon , Yun Jung-Ho
Published: January 2025

Two-dimensional organic-inorganic hybrid halide perovskites have garnered much attention owing to their outstanding stability alongside unique quantum-well structures and anisotropic properties, leading to improved charge dynamics. Two-dimensional perovskites can be divided into three phases including Ruddlesden-Popper, Dion-Jacobson, and Alternating cations in the interlayer space phase. Each phase of these perovskites shows distinguished phase-dependent structural and optoelectrical properties. Tuning their properties by designing the materials can be a key strategy to enhance the device performance in optoelectrical applications. Configuration of spacer cations and the control of octahedral layer numbers (n ) can be important parameters in material design, enabling the tuning of dielectric properties, exciton binding energy, and bandgaps, as well as materials structures, thereby influencing stability and charge transport behaviors. In this point, two-dimensional perovskite single crystals can play essential roles in not only understanding phase-dependent intrinsic natures but also enhancing performance of optoelectronic applications, specifically owing to their long carrier diffusion length and enhanced stability with little grain boundaries and low trap density. This review will deliver the strategy of phase-dependent materials design with an understanding of their anisotropic properties and charge dynamics for optoelectronic applications, including photodetectors and X-ray detectors.
The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the stress and depression of nursing students across two countries: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Joseph Rachel A , Singh Mala , Krishnamoorthy Kavitha , Shattnawi Khulood , AlAli Nahla , Turner Tracey M.
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant stress to nursing students when the global lockdown resulted in immediate changes to the method of delivery or complete cessation of education. The purpose of this study was to assess the stress of nursing students, identify associations between stress scores and sociodemographic variables, and compare the experience of nursing students in multiple sites in India and Jordan. A non-experimental, exploratory, cross-sectional research design was employed to investigate the experiences of nursing students recruited from Jordan and India. This study utilized sociodemographic data, the Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R) to measure stress levels, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale to screen for depressive symptoms, and the bipolar scale to assess coping behaviors. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and regression analysis were performed. Of the 1875 participants, 1504 were aged 18–25 years, and 1313 were females. In total, 54.67% of participants exhibited CES-D total scores indicative of depression. A significant difference in CES-D scores between the Indian and Jordanian groups was found (independent samples t-test, t(1873) =−7.79; p < 0.001), rejecting the null hypothesis. The mean IES-R total score of 40.42 indicated potential post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, a significant difference in IES-R scores between non-Jordanian and Jordanian groups was observed (t(349.28) = −20.78; p < 0.001). Nursing students from middle-income countries like India and Jordan faced significant challenges during lockdowns due to limited social support and academic resources. To mitigate these impacts, targeted guidance, support, and counseling are crucial. Self-care initiatives and emotional support for nursing students can benefit the current and future students who have faced challenges during the pandemic before entry to the nursing program. Nursing faculty can play a pivotal role by implementing mentorship programs to identify and assist at-risk students.
Constructing Physics From Measurements
Authors: Harvey-Tremblay Alexandre
Published: January 2025

We present a reformulation of fundamental physics - from an enumeration of independent axioms to the solution of a single optimization problem. Any experiment begins with an initial state preparation, involves some physical operation, and ends with a final measurement. Working from this structure, we maximize the entropy of a final measurement relative to its initial preparation subject to a measurement constraint, the later defining the domain of the theory. Since we keep the structure of an experiment entirely general, solving this optimization problem identifies the unique optimal predictive theory that holds true for all realizable experiments within the domain. We then find that using the natural constraint -- which spawns the most general domain supported by this optimization problem -- points to a unification of fundamental physics. Rather than as separate postulates, we obtain quantum mechanics, general relativity, and the Standard Model gauge symmetries within a unified theory. Notably, mathematical consistency further restricts valid solutions to 3+1 dimensions only. This reformulation reveals that the apparent complexity of modern physics, with its various forces, symmetries, and dimensional constraints, emerges as the solution an optimization problem over all realizable experiments of nature.
Probing the Gravitational Effects of Rotating Masses in a Vacuum via the Proposed Equations
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad
Published: January 2025

The gravitational effects of a rotating body on a nearby smaller body in a vacuum are investigated. Our findings, derived from the proposed equations, highlight the substantial gravitational forces exerted by the rotating body. These results are pertinent for developing unconventional gravity-generation methods for space and terrestrial applications. Moreover, this study enhances our understanding of angular velocity in the context of rotating and rigid mechanical systems.
Earth-Air Heat Exchangers: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Koshlak Hanna
Published: January 2025

Earth Air Heat Exchangers (EAHEs) provide a compelling solution for improving building en-ergy efficiency by harnessing the stable subterranean temperature to pre-treat ventilation air. This comprehensive review delves into the foundational principles of EAHE operation, meticu-lously examining heat and mass transfer phenomena at the ground-air interface. The study me-ticulously investigates the impact of key factors, including soil characteristics, climatic condi-tions, and crucial system design parameters, on overall system performance. Beyond independ-ent applications, this review explores the synergistic integration of EAHEs with a diverse array of renewable energy technologies, such as air source heat pumps, photovoltaic thermal (PVT) panels, wind turbines, fogging systems, water spray channels, solar chimneys, and photovoltaic systems. This exploration aims to clarify the potential of hybrid systems in achieving enhanced energy efficiency, minimizing environmental impact, and improving the overall robustness of the system.
RhoA/ROCK/GSK3β Signaling: A Keystone in Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Medd Milan M. , Yon Jayden E. , Dong Hongxin
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive cognitive decline and loss of neuronal integrity. Emerging evidence suggests that RhoA, Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase (ROCK), and their downstream effector molecule glycogen synthase 3β (GSK3β) interact within a complex signaling pathway (RhoA/ROCK/GSK3β) that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AD. RhoA, a small GTPase, along with its downstream effector, ROCK, regulates various cellular processes, including actin cytoskeleton dynamics, apoptosis, and synaptic plasticity. GSK3β, a serine/threonine kinase plays a key role in neuronal function and AD pathology including regulation of tau phosphorylation, amyloid-beta cleavage. Overactive GSK3β has been closely linked to tau hyperphosphorylation, neurodegeneration, and the progression of AD. Thus GSK3β has been considered as a promising therapeutic target for treating AD and mitigating cognitive impairment. However, clinical trials of GSK3β in AD have faced considerable challenges due to the complexity inhibition of GSK3β and neuronal specific. In this review, we summarize the literature regarding the relationship of RhoA/ROCK and GSK3β signaling pathways in AD pathogenesis. We further discuss recent findings of sTREM2 -transgelin-2 (TG2) axis as the potential mediators of this complex pathways and provide our review on a novel targeting strategy for AD.
Physicochemical Characterization and Antioxidant Properties of Cellulose-Rich Extracts Obtained from Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Pulp for Preparation of Cellulose-Based Gels
Authors: Llompart Bernat , Dalmau Esperanza , Umaña Mónica , Femenia Antoni
Published: January 2025

The carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a defining species of the Mediterranean region, and its fruit, the carob pod, has seen a notable increase in economic interest in recent years, primarily due to the production of locust bean gum (E410), a widely used food additive derived from the seeds. The remainder of the fruit, the carob pulp, comprises 80–90% of the fruit's weight and is typically considered a by-product, with its primary application being in animal feed. This study focused on obtaining cellulose-rich extracts from selected carob varieties cultivated in the Mediterranean region. A comprehensive physicochemical characterization of these cellulose-rich fractions was conducted, including the assessment of their antioxidant properties, specifically total phenolics and antioxidant capacity measured by the FRAP, ABTS, and CUPRAC methods. The findings reveal that carob pulp is an excellent source of carbohydrates, including soluble sugars, which constitute 33–45% of the pulp’s fresh weight, depending on the variety, and cell wall polysaccharides. The cell wall polymers, with cellulose as the predominant component, account for approximately 45% of the fresh pulp weight. Notable amounts of other polysaccharides, such as pectins and hemicelluloses, were also identified. Among the studied varieties, Bugadera and Rotjal stood out as exceptional sources of cellulose-rich extracts. Carob pulp was also found to be rich in antioxidant compounds, reflected in its high antioxidant capacity. In particular, the Bugadera variety, grown under irrigated conditions, exhibited a significant concentration of phenolic compounds (24.4 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram of pulp) and high antioxidant activity across all methods used, with ABTS measurements reaching up to 391.5 mg Trolox equivalents per gram of pulp. In conclusion, these results underscore the significant potential of carob pulp as a source of valuable cellulose-rich extracts, offering applications beyond its traditional use as animal feed. By exploring these new possibilities, the economic and environmental sustainability of carob cultivation could be greatly enhanced, contributing to the broader valorisation of this iconic Mediterranean fruit.
Research on Flexible Job Shop Scheduling Method for Agricultural Equipment Considering Multi-Resource Constraints
Authors: Wei Zhangliang , Yu Zipeng , Niu Renzhong , Zhao Qilong , Li Zhigang
Published: January 2025

Agricultural equipment market has the characteristics of rapid demand changes and high demand for machine models, etc., so multi variety, small batch, and customized production methods have become the mainstream of agricultural machinery enterprises. Flexible job shop scheduling problem (FJSP) in the context of agricultural machinery and equipment manufacturing is addressed, which involves multiple resources including machines, workers, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The aim is to optimize two objectives: makespan and the maximum continuous working hours of all workers. To tackle this complex problem, a Multi-Objective Discrete Grey Wolf Optimization (MODGWO) algorithm is proposed. The MODGWO algorithm integrates a hybrid initialization strategy and a multi-neighborhood local search to effectively balance the exploration and exploitation capabilities. An encoding/decoding method and a method for initializing a mixed population are introduced, which includes operation sequence vector, machine selection vector, worker selection vector, and AGV selection vector. The solution updating mechanism is also designed to be discrete. The performance of the MODGWO algorithm is evaluated through comprehensive experiments using an extended version of the classic Brandimarte test case by randomly adding worker and AGV information. The experimental results demonstrate that MODGWO achieves better performance in identifying high-quality solutions compared to other competitive algorithms, especially for medium and large-scale cases. The proposed algorithm contributes to the research on flexible job shop scheduling under multi-resource constraints, providing a novel solution approach that comprehensively considers both workers and AGVs. The research findings have practical implications for improving production efficiency and balancing multiple objectives in agricultural machinery and equipment manufacturing enterprises.
Epidemiological Transitions in Influenza Dynamics in the United States: Insights from Recent Pandemic Challenges
Authors: Giovanetti Marta , Ali Sobur , Slavov Svetoslav Nanev , Azarian Taj , Cella Eleonora
Published: January 2025

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has reshaped the epidemiological landscape of respiratory diseases, with profound implications for seasonal influenza. Nonpharmaceutical interventions implemented globally during the pandemic significantly altered human behavior and reduced the prevalence of respiratory pathogens, including influenza. However, the post-pandemic resurgence of influenza activity to pre-pandemic levels highlights the persistent challenges posed by this virus. During the 2023-2024 influenza season in the United States, an estimated 40 million individuals contracted influenza, resulting in 470,000 hospitalizations and 28,000 deaths, with elderly disproportionately affected. Pediatric mortality was also notable, with 724 deaths reported among children. This study examines trends in influenza incidence, vaccination rates, and mortality in the United States from the 2018-2019 through 2023-2024 influenza seasons. Additionally, it evaluates the interplay between influenza and SARS-CoV-2 during the pandemic, considering the impact of disrupted air travel, public health measures, and altered virus circulation dynamics. By integrating these insights, the study underscores the critical need for sustained vaccination campaigns and innovative public health strategies to mitigate the dual burden of respiratory diseases. Findings from this analysis highlight the urgency of strengthening prevention and surveillance systems to enhance pandemic preparedness and reduce the impact of respiratory pathogens in an evolving epidemiological landscape.
A Pilot Study Evaluating the Impact of an Algorithm-Driven Protocol on Guideline-Concordant Antibiotic Prescribing in a Rural Primary Care Setting
Authors: Nkemdirim Okere Arinze , Pinto Anthony Ryan , Suther Sandra , Ten Eyck Patrick
Published: January 2025

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) causes 2.8 million infections and over 35,000 deaths annually in the U.S., driven largely by inappropriate antibiotic prescribing, especially in rural and underserved clinics. Antibiotic Stewardship Programs (ASPs) improve prescribing practices, but many rural clinics lack fully functional ASPs. This pilot study evaluated the impact of an algorithm-driven protocol on antibiotic prescribing in a rural primary care setting. We conducted a 3.5-month, quasi-experimental study at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), focusing on upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and sexually transmitted infections. Eligible patients were identified by a pharmacy resident. The primary outcome was the frequency of guideline-concordant treatment, analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Among 201 patients (101 pre-intervention, 100 post-intervention), the pre-intervention group had 77% females and 47% African Americans, while the post-intervention group had 72% females and 46% African Americans. The intervention was associated with a 12.6% decrease in inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions (37.6% to 25%) from pre- to post-intervention periods. This corresponded to an odds ratio (OR) of 0.55 (95% CI: 0.30–1.01, p=0.054). Although not statistically significant at α=0.05, the trend suggests potential benefits of algorithm-driven protocols in improving antibiotic stewardship in resource-limited settings. Longer study periods may further elucidate these benefits.