bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O PAPEL DA GESTÃO NO CONTEXTO PANDÊMICO:
Authors: Santana Johny Juvino , Alves Francione Charapa
Published: June 2024

O artigo aborda o impacto da pandemia da COVID-19 sobre a gestão escolar com o fechamento das escolas e a transição para o ensino remoto, em que a gestão enfrentou desafios significativos para garantir a continuidade da Educação. A pesquisa tem como objetivo compreender as principais estratégias utilizadas pela gestão escolar para o enfrentamento dos prejuízos causados pela pandemia da Covid-19 aos processos de ensino e de aprendizagem.  Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, cujo método é o estudo de caso, realizada em uma escola municipal em Porteiras, Ceará. O texto destaca a importância da adaptação da gestão escolar durante a pandemia, ressaltando a necessidade de repensar práticas e desenvolver habilidades socioemocionais nesse processo. Concluímos que ficou evidente a necessidade premente de adaptação e superação por parte das instituições de ensino, gestores, professores, alunos e famílias. Assim, foi fundamental que os gestores e profissionais da educação buscassem se preparar para enfrentar os desafios do ensino remoto, buscando constantemente formas inovadoras de garantir a qualidade do ensino e da aprendizagem, mesmo em meio às adversidades. Somente através do engajamento coletivo e da colaboração entre todos os atores envolvidos será possível superar os desafios e construir um futuro mais promissor para a educação.
SABERES DOCENTES E AVALIAÇÃO DA APRENDIZAGEM NO CONTEXTO DA PANDEMIA DA COVID-19
Authors: Gomes Naira Santos , Santos Elane Dias da Silva e , Eugenio Benedito
Published: June 2024

O artigo tem como objetivo identificar os saberes presentes na prática avaliativa de um grupo de professores dos anos iniciais do ensino fundamental. Para a discussão e análise dos dados, valemo-nos das contribuições dos estudos sobre avaliação da aprendizagem e saberes docentes. Os dados foram produzidos por meio de entrevistas com quatro docentes de uma escola pública dos anos iniciais do ensino fundamental. Os dados apresentados estão organizados em duas categorias: a pandemia da Covid19 e os saberes necessários à avaliação da aprendizagem; e os saberes necessários à avaliação da aprendizagem durante a pandemia da Covid-19. A conclusão aponta que há relação entre o saber experiencial e a atuação profissional, especificamente nos processos de avaliação no contexto da pandemia de Covid-19.
Solar Neighborhood Planning
Authors: Wall Maria
Published: June 2024

This position paper provides an overview of solar strategies for neighborhood planning, outlining their importance, potential, and development. It addresses issues for policy and decision makers, other stakeholders, and influencers and presents high-level information as a basis for the uptake and further development of this application. It concludes by highlighting existing challenges and the actions needed to best utilize solar radiation in urban environments.
Impact of Weather Parameters and Time of Sowing on Severity of Powdery Mildew in Cluster Bean
Authors: Vijaykumar K.N. , Kulkarni Shripad , Kambrekar D.N. , Shashidhar T.R. , Hiremath S. M. , Balol Gurupad
Published: June 2024

Background: Powdery mildew of cluster bean causes considerable yield loss upto 50-55%. Studies carried on cluster bean powdery mildew are very few and as such there is no information related to epidemiology of the disease. Environmental factors decide the epidemic of the disease and are being used to forecast the disease severity. Methods: Five different dates of sowing of cluster bean were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with four replications at Main Agricultural Research Station, College of Agriculture, Dharwad. Observations on the first appearance of the disease and severity were recorded at weekly intervals using disease scoring scale 0-9 and along with pod yield were considered for statistical analysis. The weather data was used to correlate with the disease severity and correlation matrix was worked out. Further, the observations were converted to % disease index to calculate rate of infection and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) for each date of sowing. Result: Sowing of crop in first fortnight of September recorded the minimum mean disease severity of 19.10% and recorded pod yield of 4.72 t/ha with lower value of area under disease progress curve (1270.50) as against crop sown in first fortnight of November that recorded the 39.39 % of maximum mean disease severity, 3.82 t/ha pod yield and 2583.88 of area under disease progress curve. The mean maximum temperature was positively correlated (0.89) with % disease index whereas, minimum temperature (-0.87), morning relative humidity (-0.81) and evening relative humidity (-0.88) were negatively correlated with % disease index. Disease progression was started at 35 days after sowing and the maximum ‘r’ value of 0.157 was observed during the II fortnight of September followed by an ‘r’ value of 0.142 during the I fortnight of September whereas, a lower ‘r’ value of 0.009 was observed in I fortnight of September sown crop at 63-69 days after sowing.
Oficina de Brinquedos e Brincadeiras indígenas em uma escola municipal de Itatuba-PB
Authors: Lacerda-Swendsen Maria Eduarda Bezerra , Swendsen Edson , Sousa-Cruz Rodrigo Wanderley , Gomes-da-Silva Pierre Normando
Published: June 2024

Introdução: O presente estudo sistematiza uma proposta pedagógica que aborda o jogo enquanto um constitutivo sociocultural, um signo capaz de mediar mundos. Objetivo: descrever uma experiência que tematizou os jogos indígenas como uma possibilidade frente aos jogos hegemônicos nas aulas de Educação Física escolar. As intervenções ocorreram por meio da Oficina de Brinquedos e Brincadeiras (OBBA), uma proposta didática oriunda da Pedagogia da Corporeidade. Metodologia: As oficinas foram mediadas para um público total de 300 alunos do Ensino Fundamental II, entre os meses de abril e maio de 2023, totalizando 24 horas de intervenção. O percurso metodológico foi inspirado na estrutura pedagógica da Aula Laboratório da Pedagogia da Corporeidade (ALPC), organizada em três momentos: sentir, reagir e refletir. Os jogos escolhidos para análise foram: peteca e o jogo da onça, por representarem a cultura indígena, enfocando a compreensão e interpretação dos participantes das oficinas. Resultados e Discussões: Como resultados, observou-se a ampliação do acervo da cultura do jogo dos alunos, que se envolveram na construção dos brinquedos e na experiência do brincar indígena. O principal efeito da experiência destacado foi o desejo de compreenderem a cultura indígena, reconhecendo pela linguagem do jogo um conflito de hegemonia tendente a negligenciar as culturas ancestrais. Conclusão: Concluímos que é possível, por meio da OBBA, promover os conhecimentos da cultura indígena no ambiente educacional, destacando a riqueza motora e cognitiva de seus jogos. Assim valorizando seus elementos étnicos essenciais à construção da identidade do Brasil e excedendo os conteúdos eurocêntricos dominantes dentro da escola.
Ensino de gramática na universidade
Authors: Sarian Maristela Cury
Published: June 2024

Este trabalho, filiado aos pressupostos teóricos-metodológicos da Análise de Discurso, da História das Ideias Linguísticas e da Semântica Histórica da Enunciação, ancora-se em uma prática de ensino de gramática desenvolvida em uma disciplina ministrada em um curso de Licenciatura em Letras de uma universidade pública brasileira. Para este artigo, recortamos, para descrição e análise, sequências discursivas textualizadas como respostas a um questionário composto de quatro perguntas abertas, direcionado aos estudantes no primeiro dia de aula. Por meio da regularidade das respostas, visamos a compreender os sentidos de gramática e seu ensino na educação básica e no ensino superior. Esses sentidos incidiram no modo pelo qual nos movimentamos para propormos um trabalho em que se buscou aliar a prática técnica à prática política em nossa sala de aula, à medida que nos afastamos de uma concepção fixista de gramática para investirmos em uma proposta de ensino pautada na incompletude da língua.
AUTO CRITIC WESTERN WORLDVIEW ABOUT ECONOMIC MAN CONCEPT IN THE NEOCLASSICAL ECONOMIC ERA
Authors: Umam Khoirul , Jakiyudin Ahmad Havid , Roslan Isma Aulia
Published: June 2024

Western thought’s worldview of the concept of man has influenced much of the theoretical basis of science.  Without realizing it, the Western interpretation of the human concept still raises debates just like the concept of the economic man. The West’s failure to understand the concept of the economic man had an impact on economic problems in the neoclassical era. This study aims to analyze the worldview analogy of Western thinking about human nature from various figures and relate it to the context of economic problems in a neoclassical era. This study uses a conceptual approach. Western interpretations of human nature tend to be based on the nature of animals such as rational animals, zoon politicon, and homo sapiens. Meanwhile, in an economic aspect, humans are considered selfish, materialistic, self-interested, greedy, and always want to gain power. The worldview of various Western figures in interpreting human economics leads to the rationality of materialism. It can be said that the Western worldview fails in understanding the human concept. Failure to understand this concept raises complex economic problems in the neoclassical era such as scarcity, climate crisis, poverty, and welfare. Because human nature is uncontrollably exploiting nature through production activities to increase wealth is a main factor.
Modeling and Mitigating Gas Hazards during Potash Mine Closure
Authors: Kolesov Evgenii , Semin Mikhail , Starikov Aleksey , Grishin Evgenii
Published: June 2024

The planned closure of potash mines, achieved through the injection of highly mineralized brines into the worked-out area, is a complex and not fully studied process. A critical concern arises when brines obstruct the aerodynamic connections between the flooded mine's airspace and the atmosphere, potentially leading to the formation of closed cavities where explosive gases can accumulate. To address this hazard, it is imperative to develop systems capable of extracting the gas-air mixture from the unflooded domed portions of the worked-out area. This is the focus of this study, in which we analyze gas-dynamic processes within the potassium mine worked-out area during planned flooding. Two distinct scenarios are examined: the first involves controlled flooding with saturated brines, while the second contemplates flooding resulting from a hypothetical breakthrough of supra-salt strata, leading to the ingress of groundwater into the worked-out area. A novel mathematical model is introduced to predict the evolution of gas-air mixture parameters in the unflooded dome segment of the worked-out area. Utilizing this model, we assess the effectiveness of proposed measures designed to eliminate explosive gases from the worked-out area. Specifically, a pipeline system is proposed for the removal of gases, followed by their dilution below the maximum permissible concentrations in the effluent jet. The findings from this study contribute valuable insights into ensuring the safe and efficient closure of potash mines, shedding light on potential risks and effective mitigation strategies for gas-related hazards during planned flooding.
MDH2 Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Growth through Ferroptosis Evasion via Stabilizing GPX4
Authors: Yu Wenjia , Li Yingping , Gao Chengchang , Li Donglin , Chen Liangjie , Dai Bolei , Yang Haoying , Han Linfen , Deng Qinqin , Bian Xueli
Published: June 2024

The crosstalk between tumor progression and ferroptosis is largely unknown. Here, we identify malate dehydrogenase 2 (MDH2) as a key regulator of ferroptosis. MDH2 deficiency inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell growth and promotes sensitivity of HCC cells to RSL3-induced ferroptosis. MDH2 knockdown enhances RSL3-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), free iron ions and lipid peroxides levels, leading to HCC ferroptotic cell death which is rescued by Ferrostatin-1 and iron chelator Deferiprone. Importantly, inhibition of HCC cell growth caused by MDH2 deficiency is partially rescued by ferroptosis blockade. Mechanistically, MDH2 resists RSL3-induced ferroptosis sensitivity by dependence on GPX4, which is stabilized by MDH2 in HCC. The protein expression of MDH2 and GPX4 is positively correlated with each other in HCC cell lines. Furthermore, through UALCAN website analysis, we find that MDH2 and GPX4 are highly expressed in HCC samples. These findings reveal a critical mechanism by which HCC evades ferroptosis via MDH2-mediated stabilization of GPX4 to promote tumor progression and underscore the potential of MDH2 inhibition in combination with ferroptosis inducers for the treatment of HCC.
Online Determination of State of Charge in Lithium-Ion Batteries: Influence of the State of Health
Authors: Armenta-Déu Carlos
Published: June 2024

This paper focuses on determining the State of Charge (SOC) of lithium-ion batteries when operating and the influence the State of Health (SOH) has on SOC determination. The paper studies the effects of the discharge rate on the battery performance and how it modifies the evaluation of the SOC. The article also analyzes the effects of battery aging on the determination of SOC. The online determination of SOC in lithium-ion batteries uses the linear behavior of battery discharge and how the discharge rate modifies the battery voltage slope. The paper develops a simple algorithm that relates the SOC of the battery with the online battery voltage. The proposed measurement method uses a very short controlled discharge at a specific rate that avoids unexpected interferences with the current operation of the battery during charge or discharge. We conducted a simulation process to evaluate the evolution of the SOC in Li-ion batteries for different operating stages. Experimental tests validate the proposed methodology, showing a close agreement between theoretical values and experimental results with 98% accuracy. The paper also deals with the determination of the aging factor in lithium batteries as a critical parameter to calculate the SOC. The method determines the aging factor using specific simulation for this goal. The results are compared to values obtained in an experimental test within high agreement (>93%). The proposed model applies to almost any lithium battery and is validated for a wide range of Battery State of Health, up to 50%, within accurate prediction, higher than 90%.
In Silico Methods for the Discovery of Kv7.2/7.3 Channels Modulators: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Stagno Claudio , Mancuso Francesca , Ciaglia Tania , Ostacolo Carmine , Piperno Anna , Iraci Nunzio , Micale Nicola
Published: June 2024

The growing interest in Kv7.2/7.3 agonists originates from the involvement of these channels in several brain hyperexcitability disorders. In particular, Kv7.2/7.3 mutants have been clearly associated with epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) as well as with a spectrum of focal epilepsy disorders, often associated with developmental plateauing or regression. Nevertheless, there is a lack of available therapeutic options, considering that retigabine, the only molecule used in clinic as broad-spectrum Kv7 agonist, has been withdrawn from the market in the late 2016. This is why several efforts have been made both by both academia and industry in the search for suitable chemotypes acting as Kv7.2/7.3 agonists. In this context, in silico methods have played a major role, since the precise structures of different Kv7 homotetramers have been only recently disclosed. In the present review the computational methods used for the design of Kv.7.2/7.3 small molecule agonists and the underlying medicinal chemistry are discussed in the context of their biological and structure-function properties.
Investigating the Role of Human Resource Management in Supply Chain Effectiveness
Authors: Holloway Samuel
Published: June 2024

This qualitative research investigates the pivotal role of Human Resource Management (HRM) in enhancing supply chain effectiveness. Through semi-structured interviews with 25 professionals across various industries, the study explores how HRM practices influence key aspects of supply chain management (SCM), including talent management, training and development, leadership, organizational culture, and technology integration. Findings highlight the strategic alignment between HRM and SCM as crucial for optimizing supply chain performance and responsiveness. Effective talent management strategies, such as recruitment, development, and succession planning, emerged as critical factors in ensuring operational stability and innovation within supply chains. Training programs were identified as instrumental in equipping employees with the necessary skills to navigate technological advancements and market complexities, fostering collaboration and enhancing decision-making capabilities. Leadership development initiatives were also found to be pivotal in promoting organizational effectiveness and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The study further underscores the role of HRM in cultivating a collaborative and inclusive organizational culture that enhances communication, trust, and teamwork among supply chain stakeholders. Additionally, the integration of digital technologies and sustainability considerations emerged as transformative trends shaping modern supply chains, with HRM practices playing a crucial role in facilitating technological adoption and promoting environmentally responsible practices. Addressing challenges such as resource constraints, regulatory compliance, economic uncertainties, and global supply chain complexities remains crucial for organizations aiming to optimize HRM practices and achieve sustainable supply chain performance. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how HRM can drive innovation, collaboration, and resilience within supply chains, positioning organizations for long-term success and growth.
Serum-Derived Macrophage-Activating Factor Exhibits Anti-Tumor Activity via M2-to-M1 Macrophage Reprogramming
Authors: Takara Tsuyoshi , Takara Rei , Kobayashi Aya , Shirakata Hina , Ambai Shinobu , Shinohara Yusei , Uto Yoshihiro
Published: June 2024

Many anti-tumor effects of group-specific component-derived macrophage-activating factors (GcMAFs) have been reported; however, the specific mechanisms remain unclear. Controlling tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment is essential for cancer treatment. This study assessed the role of GcMAF in macrophage activation, elucidated the mechanisms by which it exerts its anti-tumor effects, and determined its effects on TAMs in the tumor microenvironment. GcMAF-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and EMT6 breast tumor cells were co-cultured in a 0.4-µm pore cell culture insert, and gene and protein expression and cell viability were evaluated. DNA microarray analysis of GcMAF-stimulated RAW264.7 cells was conducted. The induction of M2 RAW264.7 cells by interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 was analyzed. GcMAF stimulation increased the tumor necrosis factor-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA and protein levels in RAW264.7 cells but decreased the viability of co-cultured EMT6 cells. These results were confirmed in the M2 RAW264M2.7 cells, suggesting that GcMAF exerts anti-tumor effects by inducing the differentiation of macrophages into the M1 type and reprogramming M2 macrophages to the M1 type. The anti-tumor activity of GcMAF via M2-to-M1 macrophage reprogramming could aid in developing novel cancer immunotherapies.
PyCaret for Predicting Type 2 Diabetes: A Phenotype and Gender‐Based Approach with the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals’ Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Gul Sebnem , Ayturan Kubilay , Hardalaç Fırat
Published: June 2024

Predicting type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using phenotypic data with machine learning (ML) techniques has received significant attention in recent years. PyCaret, an ML tool that enables the simultaneous application of 16 different algorithms, was used to predict T2DM using phenotypic variables from the “Nurses’ Health Study” and “Health Professionals’ Follow-up Study” datasets. Ridge classifier, Linear Discriminant Analysis, and Logistic Regression (LR) were the best-performing models for the male-only data subset. For the female-only data subset, LR, Gra-dient Boosting Classifier, and CatBoost Classifier were the strongest models. The AUC, accuracy, and precision were 0.77, 0.70, and 0.70 for males and 0.79, 0.70, and 0.71 for females, respective-ly. The feature importance plot showed that familial history of diabetes (famdb), never having smoked, and high blood pressure (hbp) were the most influential features in females, while famdb, hbp, and current smoking were the major variables in males. In conclusion, PyCaret was used successfully for speed analysis for the prediction of T2DM by simplifying complex ML tasks. Gen-der differences are an important consideration for T2DM prediction. Despite this comprehensive ML tool, phenotypic variables alone may not be sufficient for early T2DM prediction; genotypic variables could also be used in combination for future studies.
Distilling Knowledge from Multiple Foundation Models for Zero-shot Image classification
Authors: Yin Siqi , Jiang Lifan
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces a novel framework for zero-shot learning (ZSL), i.e., to recognize new categories that are unseen during training, by distilling knowledge from foundation models. Specifically, we first employ ChatGPT and DALL-E to synthesize reference images of unseen categories from text prompts. Then, the test image is aligned with text and reference images using CLIP and DINO. Finally, the predicted logits are aggregated according to their confidence to produce the final prediction.Experiments are conducted on multiple datasets, including CIFAR-10, CIFAR-100, and TinyImageNet. The results demonstrate that our model can significantly improve classification accuracy compared to previous approaches, achieving AUROC scores above 96\% across all test datasets. Our code is available at https://github.com/1134112149/MICW-ZIC.
Data analysis and inflection point generation algorithm for RPN intermediate range detectors in active nuclear power plants
Authors: Jin Peng , Lu Jian , Guan Yue , Zhu Pengfei , Tian Ye , Zhu Weijiang , Ye Jinmiao , Xie Linjun
Published: June 2024

The nuclear reactor measurement system is a crucial component of the nuclear measurement system in a nuclear power plant. Its primary function is to measure the power distribution within the reactor core using detectors, calibrate, and provide data on core fuel consumption. Therefore, the study of the detectors' reliability is crucial for ensuring the safe operation of the nuclear power system. The article describes the operational mechanism of the gas ionization chamber detector utilized in the intermediate-range detector of the off-board nuclear measurement system. It also analyzes the movement of particles between the plates during the ionization process of the nuclear reaction taking place in the detector. The functional relationship between the current in the recombination region and the ionization region involved in the actual working condition, and the change with the increase of voltage between the plates, is deduced. A mathematical model is established for the number of pulses generated between the plates and the magnitude of the voltage between the plates. Subsequently, the change in the offset of the voltage corresponding to the inflection point of the ping curve and the change rule of the slope of the ping curve are investigated. Combined with the analysis of experimental data, the results show that the initial particle energy of Ar+, the primary sensitive particle on the detector surface, follows a normal distribution and is influenced by the energy loss associated with the initial velocity and the voltage between the plates. The trends of the inflection points and slopes of the ping curves can be utilized to evaluate the performance and operational status of the detector. Combined with the results of the experimental data analysis, the fit is good, and the inflection point currents in the normal state decrease by about 1.5% annually. The intelligent diagnostic system, based on the method studied in this paper, has been successfully implemented in the RPN digital retrofit and upgrade project at Qinshan No. 2 Plant.
A Step Towards Circular Economy: Assessing the Efficacy of Ion Exchange Resins in the Recycling of Automotive Engine Coolants
Authors: Danila George Madalin , Cretu Mihaiella , Puscasu Cristian
Published: June 2024

This study presents the evaluation of an ion exchange resin-based installation designed for the recycling of engine coolants, specifically ethylene glycol (EG) and propylene glycol (PG). The recycling process aims to restore the coolant to meet the stringent ASTM standards for both new and recycled coolants. A combination of physical-chemical methods, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was employed to analyze and validate the purity and performance of the recycled product. The experimental setup included performance tests to assess the efficacy of the recycled coolants in comparison to new coolant standards. The results demonstrate that the recycled EG coolants exhibit comparable quality to new coolants, with all critical parameters falling within the acceptable ASTM limits. This indicates that the ion exchange resin method is a viable and efficient solution for the recycling of engine coolants, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to the disposal of used coolants while ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Robotics Application in the Hospital Domain: Operator-Patient- Robot Interface
Authors: Cruz Elijah M.G.N.V. , Oliveira Sancho , Correia Américo
Published: June 2024

Robotic systems are increasingly being used in healthcare to improve patient care and support healthcare professionals. These robots are especially effective at performing repetitive tasks. In complex cancer cases, robots can enhance surgical precision and efficiency, resulting in reduced pain for patients and a lower risk of complications. Robot-assisted surgery offers high-quality 3D imaging, improved clarity, and increased efficiency. This review paper examines the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotic systems in the healthcare domain, specifically focusing on the interaction among operators, patients, and robots. The goal is to promote collaboration and improve healthcare provision through human-robot interaction. We considered already published articles by relevance, to identify the primary safety issues that need addressing for the integration of AI and robots in hospitals. Concluding with insights into understanding the focal points of social errors in Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) is crucial for mitigating these errors. While current technologies have reached a certain level of maturity, there are still numerous challenges in utilizing robot-assisted clinical practice, including technological, safety, clinical, financial, insurance, psychological, social, ethical, and legal issues. In addition, there is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed: the alignment of values in artificial intelligence, ensuring that AI systems reflect ethical principles and human values is crucial to avoid negative consequences such as bias, discrimination, and prejudicial decisions. Resolving this complex issue requires collaboration among clinical staff, researchers, programmers, and political decision-makers from various fields.
Microbead-encapsulated luminescent bioreporter screening of P. aeruginosa via its secreted quorum sensing molecules.
Authors: Paul Abraham Abbey , Kadosh Yael Schlichter , Kushmaro Ariel , Marks Robert S.
Published: June 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacterium that remains a prevalent clinical and environmental challenge. Quorum sensing (QS) molecules are effective biomarkers in pinpointing the presence of P. aeruginosa. This study aimed to develop a convenient-to-use whole-cell biosensor using P. aeruginosa reporters individually encapsulated within alginate-poly-L-lysine (alginate-PLL) microbeads to specifically detect the presence of bacterial autoinducers. The PLL-reinforced microbeads were prepared using a two-step method involving ionic crosslinking and subsequent coating with thin layers of PLL. The alginate-PLL beads showed good stability in the presence of a known cation scavenger (sodium citrate), which typically limits the widespread applications of calcium alginate. In media containing synthetic autoinducers, such as N-(3-oxo dodecanoyl) homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C12-HSL) and N-butanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (C4-HSL) or cell-free supernatants of planktonic or flow cell biofilm effluent of wild P. aeruginosa (PAO1), the encapsulated bacteria enabled a dose-dependent detection of the presence of these QS molecules. The prepared bioreporter beads remained stable during prolonged storage at 4 and -80 °C and were ready for on-the-spot sensing without the need for recovery. This whole-cell biosensor demonstrates the practicality of the encapsulated bioreporter for bacterial detection based on specific QS molecules.
Origin-Destination prediction from Road Segment Speed Data using GraphResLSTM Model
Authors: Zhang Jun , Hu Guangtong
Published: June 2024

Amidst the escalating demands for efficient Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) management, the significance of accurate Origin-Destination (OD) data prediction has emerged as a paramount concern, given its indispensable role in the ITS domain. This paper introduces a hybrid model, GraphResLSTM, which integrates Graph Convolutional Network, Residual Neural Network, and Long Short-Term Memory Network, to exploit road segment average speed data for OD prediction. Compared with conventional road segment traffic volume data, average speed data is more readily available, significantly reducing the data accessibility barrier for OD prediction. We underscore the critical role of selection of key road segments and employs a combination of Entropy Weight Method and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to identify 41 representative road segments from the experimental road network. In the experimental phase, we simulate 86400000 seconds of traffic conditions, generating a total of 1440000 data records. Utilizing these simulated data, we design and conduct comparative experiments between models as well as data types. The results demonstrate that both the GraphResLSTM model and road segment average speed data outperform other models and data types notably in OD prediction tasks.
The Correlations Between Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire and Electrocardiographic Parameters in Predicting the Outcome after Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Rosu Andrei-Mihnea , Tomescu Luminiţa Florentina , Badea Theodor-Georgian , Radu Emanuel-Stefan , Rosu Andreea-Liana , Brezeanu Lavinia Nicoleta , Vlad Adelina , Tanasescu Maria-Daniela , Badea Andrada-Georgiana , Isac Sebastian , Isac Teodora , SINESCU CRINA , Darabont Roxana , Andrei Catalina-Liliana , Andrei Tudorel , Popa Oana Andreea
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is essential for patients with heart failure and ventricular conduction abnormalities. Cardiomyopathy often includes left bundle branch block (LBBB) marked by delayed activation of the LV lateral wall and a widened QRS complex. Following CRT, patients with heart failure and LBBB have better outcomes and quality of life improvements. Various electrocardiographic and clinical parameters are thought to predict this improvement. The Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) is a reliable tool for measuring the quality of life in these patients. (2) Methods: We performed an observational prospective study over 69 individuals diagnosed with cardiac failure and dilatative cardiomyopathy with low FE and major LBBB and analyzed the correlations between patient outcomes after the procedure and the demographic, clinical, and electrocardiographic parameters, which include systolic blood pressure, ECG morphology elements, QRS duration, QRS area and associated comorbidities. (3) Results: Following our analysis a correlation between QRS area, intraprocedural systolic blood pressure, QRS duration and CRT outcomes assessed by the KCCQ score was observed which reflected that CRT has a hemodynamic impact and also affects the severity of ventricular asynchrony.; (4) Conclusions: The significant correlations observed with the KCCQ score show how CRT therapy impacts patients' quality of life, symptom burden, and functional status.
Double PN Benchmark Solution for the 1D Monoenergetic
Neutron Transport Equation in Plane Geometry
Authors: Ganapol Barry D.
Published: June 2024

Abstract: As more and more numerical and analytical solutions to the linear neutron transport equation become available, verification of numerical results is increasingly important. This presentation concerns the development of another benchmark for the linear neutron transport equation. There are numerous ways of solving the transport equation, such as the Wiener-Hopf method based on analyticity, method of singular eigenfunctions, Laplace and Fourier transforms and analytical discrete ordinates, which is arguably one of the most straightforward, to name a few. Another potential method is the PN method, where the solution is expanded in terms of full range orthogonal Legendre polynomials and with orthogonality and truncation, the moments form a set of second order ODEs. Because of the half-range boundary conditions for incoming particles however, full range Legendre expansions are inaccurate near material discontinuities. For this reason, a double PN (DPN) expansion is more appropriate, where the incoming and exit-ing flux distributions are expanded separately to preserve the discontinuity at material interfaces. Here, a new method of solution for the DPN equations is proposed and demonstrated for an iso-tropically scattering medium.
Understanding the Transmission Dynamics of the Chikungunya Virus in Africa
Authors: Ramphal Yajna , Tegally Houriiyah , San James Emmanuel , Reichmuth Martina , Hofstra Marije , Wilkinson Eduan , Baxter Cheryl , Consortium CLIMADE , de Oliveira Tulio , Moir Monika
Published: June 2024

The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) poses a significant global public health concern, especially in Africa. Since its first isolation in Tanzania in 1953, CHIKV has caused recurrent outbreaks, challenging healthcare systems in low-resource settings. Recent outbreaks in Africa highlight the dynamic nature of CHIKV transmission and the challenges of underreporting and underdiagnosis. Here, we review literature and analyze publicly available cases, outbreaks, and genomic data providing insights into the epidemiology, genetic diversity, and transmission dynamics of CHIKV in Africa. Our analyses reveal the circulation of geographically distinct CHIKV genotypes, with certain regions experiencing a disproportionate burden of disease. Phylogenetic analysis of sporadic outbreaks in West Africa suggests repeated emergence of the virus through enzootic spillover, which is markedly different from inferred transmission dynamics in East Africa, where the virus is often introduced from Asian outbreaks, including the recent reintroduction of the Indian Ocean lineage from the Indian subcontinent to east Africa. Furthermore, there is limited evidence of viral movement between these two regions. Understanding the history and transmission dynamics of outbreaks is crucial for public health planning. Despite advances in surveillance and research, diagnostic and surveillance challenges persist. This review and secondary analysis highlight the importance of ongoing surveillance, research, and collaboration to mitigate the burden of CHIKV in Africa and improve public health outcomes.
Preparation and Characterization of a Novel Hydroxyapatite-Capsaicin Composite Intended for the In-Office Dental Bleaching Use
Authors: Silva Karine Letícia da , Hortkoff Diego , Favoreto Michael William , Rezende Marcia , Nadal Jessica Mendes , Armas-Vega Ana , Loguercio Alessandro D. , Farago Paulo Vitor
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to synthetize a hydroxyapatite-capsaicin composite (HAp-CAP) and to evaluate its physicochemical data for further use in hydrogen peroxide in-office dental bleaching gel. The HAp-CAP was prepared by the precipitation method, performed in a 4:1 ratio using 3.2 g of nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HAp) and 0.8 g of capsaicin (CAP) in 99.5% ethyl alcohol (q.s.p) and zirconia beads at SpeedMixer®. The HAp-CAP was characterized by morphological, spectroscopic, and thermal analyses. In the following, the HAp-CAP was added to an in-office dental bleaching to test its effect on reducing hydrogen peroxide diffusion into the pulp chamber, as well as the effect in the color alteration during dental bleaching. The HAp-CAP were suitably obtained by the precipitation method, and the results demonstrates that the thermal stability of the CAP is greatly improved after reaction of HAp and CAP. The HAp-CAP into a bleaching gel slightly decreased the amount of hydrogen peroxide inside the pulp chamber and didn’t interfering in the bleaching effectiveness of dental bleaching. The HAp-CAP synthesis and characterization were successfully carried out, and its use in dental materials is a challenging task that needs further study since its addition.
Alpha Synuclein Toxicity and Non-motor Parkinson’s
Authors: Mazzotta Gabriella M. , Conte Carmela
Published: June 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common multisystem neurodegenerative disorder affecting 1% of the population above 60 years. The main neuropathological features of PD are the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and the presence of alpha synuclein (Syn)-rich Lewy bodies both manifesting with classical motor signs. Syn has emerged as a key protein in PD pathology as it can spread through synaptic networks to reach several anatomical regions of the body contributing to the appearance of non-motor symptoms (NMS) considerate prevalent among individuals before PD diagnosis and persisting throughout the patient’s life. NMS mainly include loss of taste and smell, constipation, psychiatric disorders, dementia, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior impairment, urogenital dysfunction, and cardiovascular impairment.
This review summarizes the more recent findings showing the impact of Syn deposits on several prodromal NMS and emphasizes the importance of early detection of Syn toxic species in biofluids and peripheral biopsies as prospective biomarkers in PD.
Relationship between Family Factors, Food Consumption Behaviors, and Nutritional Status among Muslim School-Age Students in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand
Authors: Kaewpawong Pastraporn , Kusol Kiatkamjorn
Published: June 2024

Nutritional status problems in school-age children are a crucial public health problem worldwide. This research explored the relationships between family factors, food consumption behaviors, and the nutritional status of Muslim school-age children in Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand. This descriptive research was conducted among 228 children aged 9-12 years. Data were collected using demographic data, nutritional status, and food consumption behaviors assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive, chi-square, and binary logistic regression statistics. The results revealed that most samples reported having moderately healthy food consumption behaviors (M = 2.01, SD = 0.56). The samples had a normal weight (72.4%), while 15.8% were classified as overweight and obese. The number of siblings and food consumption behaviors had a significant relationship with nutritional status (p < 0.05). Confirmation with binary logistic regression results also revealed that the likelihood of normal nutritional status was 2.40 times higher in children who had 3 or 4 siblings compared to those with 1 or 2 siblings (AOR = 2.40; 95% CI: 1.299-4.459). Additionally, children with healthy food consumption behaviors were 2.34 times more likely to have normal nutritional status compared to those with unhealthy dietary consumption (AOR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.183-4.631). Conclusion: Since the number of siblings and healthy food consumption behaviors were associated with nutritional status, healthcare providers must consider these 2 factors when establishing health education and behavior modification care plans to promote healthy food consumption and nutritional status among this group.
Aiming for Equity: Addressing COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among American Indian/Alaska Native Populations through Educational Interventions
Authors: Takagi Maya Asami , Rhodes Simone T , Kim Jun Hwan , King Maxwell , Sokar Stephanie , Martin Chad , Sasaki Cole Angela , Chan Arlene , Brennan Ciara , Zyzanski Stephen , Kissoondial Barry , Ragina Neli
Published: June 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing healthcare disparities among American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations, rooted in historical traumas and systemic marginalization. Methods: This study conducted at a single Indian Health Service (IHS) clinic in central Michigan examines the effectiveness of educational interventions in enhancing COVID-19 knowledge and attitudes among AI/AN populations. Utilizing a pre/post prospective study design, participants received either a video or infographic educational intervention, followed by a survey assessing COVID-19 knowledge and attitudes. Results: The results indicate significant improvements in knowledge and attitudes post-intervention, with both modalities proving effective. However, specific factors such as gender, political affiliation, and place of residence influenced COVID-19 attitudes and knowledge, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions. Conclusions: Despite limitations, this study highlights the critical role of educational interventions in addressing vaccine hesitancy and promoting health equity within AI/AN communities. Moving forward, comprehensive strategies involving increased Indian Health Service funding, culturally relevant interventions, and policy advocacy are crucial in mitigating healthcare disparities and promoting health equity within AI/AN communities.
COL6A3 Exosomes Promoting Tumor Dissemination and Metastasis in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Ho Chih-Ming , Yen Ting-Lin , Chang Tzu-Hao , Huang Shih-Hung
Published: June 2024

Our study explores the role of cancer-derived extracellular exosomes (EXs), particularly focusing on collagen alpha-3 (VI; COL6A3), in facilitating tumor dissemination and metastasis in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). We found that COL6A3 is expressed in aggressive ES2 derivatives, SKOV3 overexpressing COL6A3 (SKOV3/COL6A3), and mesenchymal-type ovarian carcinoma stromal progenitor cells (MSC-OCSPCs), as well as their EXs, but not in less aggressive SKOV3 cells or ES2 cells with COL6A3 knockdown (ES2/shCOL6A3). High COL6A3 expression correlates with worse overall survival in EOC patients, as evidenced by TCGA and GEO data analysis. In vitro experiments showed that EXs from MSC-OCSPCs or SKOV3/COL6A3 cells significantly enhance invasion ability in ES2 or SKOV3/COL6A3 cells, respectively (both, P <0.001). In contrast, ES2 cells with ES2/shCOL6A3 EXs exhibit reduced invasion ability (p<0.001). In vivo, the average disseminated tumor numbers in the peritoneal cavity were significantly greater in mice receiving intraperitoneally injected SKOV3/COL6A3 cells than in SKOV3 cells (p<0.001). Furthermore, mice intravenously (IV) injected with SKOV3/COL6A3 cells and SKOV3/COL6A3-EXs showed increased lung colonization compared to mice injected with SKOV3 cells and PBS (p=0.007) or SKOV3/COL6A3 cells and PBS (p=0.039). Knockdown of COL6A3 or treatment with EXs inhibitor GW4869 or rapamycin-abolished COL6A3-EXs may suppress the aggressiveness in EOC.
CuFP: An HLS Library for Customized Floating-Point Operators
Authors: Hajizadeh Fahimeh , Ould-Bachir Tarek , David Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2024

High-Level Synthesis (HLS) tools have revolutionized FPGA application development by providing a more efficient and streamlined approach, significantly impacting digital design methodologies. Despite the capability of FPGAs to customize numerical representations in data paths, most HLS projects have focused on fixed-point precision, while floating-point representations remain limited to vendor-provided single, double, and half-precision formats. This paper proposes a customized floating-point library compatible with HLS to address these limitations. This library allows programmers to define the number of exponent and mantissa bits at compile time, providing greater flexibility and enabling the use of mixed precision. Moreover, this library includes optimized implementations of common components such as vector summation (VSUM), dot-product (DP), and matrix-vector multiplication (MVM). Results demonstrate that the proposed library reduces latency and resource utilization compared to vendor IP blocks, particularly in VSUM, DP, and MVM operations. For example, the MVM operation involving a 32x32 matrix, using vendor IP requires 22 clock cycles, whereas CuFP completes the same task in just 7 clock cycles, using approximately 60% fewer DSPs, 10% fewer LUTs, and 60% fewer FFs.
Cavity-Induced Optical Nonreciprocity Based on Degenerate Two-Level Atoms
Authors: Qi Chuanzhao , Zheng Jiarui , Tong Yuanhang , Li Ruonan , Wang Dan , Huang Lianghui , Zhou Haitao
Published: June 2024

We propose and experimentally realize a scheme of the optical nonreciprocity (ONR) using degenerate two-level atoms embedded in an optical ring cavity. For the degenerate transition Fg=4→Fe=3, we first study the cavity-transmission property in different coupling field, and verify that within the strong-coupling regime, the single-dark-state peak formed by electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) shows ONR. Qualitative theoretical analysis shows that the stable ground-state Zeeman coherence is necessary for intracavity EIT. However, due to the frequency degeneracy, the large Rabi frequency of counter-propagating coupling field can reduce the number of effective atoms and weaken the strong-coupling of the atom-cavity, which determines that ONR based on intracavity EIT occurs only at weaker probe intensity. Furthermore, the ONR transmission with high contrast, linewidth-narrowed and broadband is experimentally demonstrated.