bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Planting Date and Kinetin Concentration on Thermal Accumulation and Some Growth Trails in Barley
Authors: Mohammed Labed Shareef
Published: April 2023

A field experiment was carried out in Alsufia - Al-Ramadi city - Al-Anbar governorate Republic of Iraq at winter season 2020-2021 on sandy loam soil. The experiment included 12 treatment resulted from the combination of planting date Oct25, Nov10, Nov25 and Dec10 ( main plots) and kinetin concentration 0,30 and 60 mg L-1( sub plots ) using RCBD with split plot arrangement and three replications. The results revealed that the plants of first planting date recorded 91 days until booting stage and reduced gradually to 60 days at fourth date. First planting date score highest thermal accumulation at 1876 C and declined to lowest value at third date (1389) C. Fourth planting date gave the highest CGR (0.127) g day-1 and NAR (0.00028) g cm-2 day-1. The concentration of kinetin 30 mg L-1 surpass in CGR significantly, but kinetin concentration have on significant effect on NAR.
Gender perspective as the consumer behavior of buying organic rice: A case study in China and Thailand
Authors: Witjaksono J , Rusdin  , Dahya  , Imran  , Sutisna E , Asmin  , Seerasarn N
Published: April 2023

Organic farming is being rapidly growing in developing countries such Thailand and China as well. Food safety and quality issues have sparked consumers’ awareness and make them to be doubtful towards conventional food products as consequence citizens of developed countries have shown a significant interest towards organic products. Data for the study were collected in Bangkok Thailand and Beijing China from 100 consumers. The sampling was carried using a multi-stage method. The results of t-tests revealed that those unaware of organic food group topped the six-point scale statement, for females 2.0909, and for the males 2.0000 which implies that majority of the males were comparatively unaware of organic foods or the benefit of organic food. Furthermore, the group of don’t trust the label/ don’t think it is really a certified organic food fell into the second category from the results of the t- test in which males 0.7407, and for the females 2.1096 were significant. The findings indicated that consumer’s willingness to pay for organic food is influenced by some characteristics such as nutritive value, taste, freshness, appearance, colour and other sensory characteristics.
Addition of avocado (persea americana) leaf extract and carrot (daucus carota) leaf extract in starter phase broiler feed for production of low-fat meat for elderly
Authors: Utami M M D , Dewi A C , Ningsih N , Maulana F B R , Islamianda S
Published: April 2023

High-fat meat causes fatty liver, hypertension, stroke, and heart attack becomes less safe for the elderly. The research used plants that have the potential to reduce fat synthesis. This study was conducted in the starter phase to provide an overview of performance and fatty conditions in the finisher phase. In vivo testing of 84 broilers using a completely randomized design with seven treatments used commercial feed as basal feed, avocado leaf extract, and carrot leaf extract. The treatment is as follows: T1: basal feed (control) did not add ALE and CLE; T2: basal feed + (2.5% ALE and 2.5% CLE); T3: basal feed + (5% ALE and 5% CLE), T4: basal feed + (5% ALE and 0% CLE), T5: basal feed + (5% ALE and 2.5% CLE); T6: basal feed + (0% ALE and 5% CLE); T7: basal feed + (2.5% ALE and 5% CLE). The treatment is carried out for 21 days, and the parameters of the study were feed intake, body weight gain, and feed conversion. The diet with a CLE at 5% gave the lowest feed conversion in the first and the third weeks (P<0.05). Feed consumption and body weight gain in the first and second weeks were highest in the use of ALE and CLE at 2.5% respectively increasing the body weight in the first and the second weeks. The avocado leaf extract and carrot leaf extract used in the diet improve the feed conversion of broilers in the starter phase.
The Breeding of Free-range Chickens and Purebred Chickens with Artificial Insemination Technology on Fertility and Hatchability Using Manual Incubator
Authors: Tanjungsari A. , Andaruisworo S. , Yuniati E.
Published: April 2023

The breeding of free-range chickens and purebred chickens with insemination technology made using a manual incubator to get DOC meat with a large number. The aims to this study is to determine the results of breeding of free-range chickens and purebred chickens with artificial insemination technology using a manual incubator on fertility and hatchability. This research used descriptive method using the chi-square test which is useful for predicting the effect of expectations. This research used 10 males free-range chickens aged 1-1.5 years and 100 females purebred chickens with 10-15 months old in healthy condition and individually caged, feed given a mixture of concentrate, fine bran, and yellow corn. Insemination made 3 times in a week, cement storage using the massage method and accommodated in a measuring cup which is then injected into the hens purebred chicken. Results of this study were the highest percentage of fertility is at stage 4 with a value of 86.11% while the lowest percentage in stages 2 and 3 with a value of 83.3%. The highest hatchability percentage was at stage 4 with a value of 87.09% while the lowest percentage was in stage 2 with a value of 81.66%.
Evaluation of rubber seed meal (Hevea brasiliensis) by fermentation method using Rhizopus oligosporus and Neurospora sitophila fungi
Authors: Pantaya D , Wulandari S , Yulinarsari A P , Poernomo H
Published: April 2023

Rubber seeds are plantation waste that can be used because they contain important nutrients for the body. However, rubber seeds also contain anti-nutritional substances in the form of cyanide acid (HCN). This study aims to evaluate the content of rubber seeds through the fermentation method with yeast based on the fungiRhizopus oligosporus(tempeh yeast) andNeurospora sitophila(red oncom yeast) so that they are safe for consumption. The types of fungi came from the Feed technology Laboratory, Jember State Polytechnic. The dose of yeast was adjusted according to the treatment. The curing time is 48 hours at 30°C. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 3x5 factorial pattern. The factor I was the type of microbes used. Factor II was the dose of yeast (0%;0.8%;1.6%;3.2%;6.4%). Each treatment was repeated 2 times. The different results were continued with Duncan’s multiple distance test to determine the differences between treatments. All of the fungi had the ability to degrade rubber seed HCN at yeast doses up to 6.4% (concentration 109CFU/g). However, fermentation withNeurospora sitophilaresulted in a higher protein content of rubber seeds, namely 20.64% when compared to usingRhizopus oligosporus, which was 19.93% (incubation time of 48 hours).
Analysis and Design of Internal Traceability System for Rice Processing Industry
Authors: Purwandoko P B , Seminar K B , Sutrisno  , Sugiyanta  , Litaay C , Sriharti  , Triyono A , Mayasti N K I
Published: April 2023

Data management is needed to monitor production so business processes run according to operational standards. The rice processing industry’s data management system is still manually, causing ineffectiveness. Therefore, an information system that captures and records all business activities is needed. This study aimed to develop an internal traceability system design that is used to document all material flows during rice processing. Based on the results obtained, the business process in the rice processing industry consists of three main activities: receiving raw materials, processing products, and warehousing the final product. The traceability system requirements modeling is done by compiling an information system architecture, analyzing data and information requirements using UML (Unified Modeling Language) object-oriented class diagrams, and developing a user interface (UI) design for the system. The result of this study is a system design that can ensure that the input (a receipt of raw materials), process, and output (final product) are well connected to be used for monitoring rice processing. Furthermore, the application of the traceability system can have a positive impact on the industry, government, and consumers.
Development of Automatic Pond Reservoir System to Support Automatic Surface Vehicle
Authors: Destarianto P , Hartadi D R , Ayuninghemi R
Published: April 2023

Water quality is an important segment in shrimp farming. The main factor of water in ponds is seen from several dimensions, including the amount of dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature. The implementation of the farmers at the research site uses a waterwheel approach for toot oxygen, KOH/Lime for pH, and circulating water in the pond for temperature. As the main factor, water must meet standards, oxygen levels (3-7ppm), pH (7-9pH), and temperature (24-32°C). This standardization aims to produce optimal shrimp culture considering that shrimp is one of the sensitive and cannibalistic animals. For example, if the temperature or pH suddenly changes, the shrimp will eat each other, but this standardization is challenging for farmers due to limitations. Human Resources. This study aims to develop an Automatic Pond Reservoir. The system built in this study implements fuzzy logic control on the Arduino for the classification process. It triggers the Pond Reservoir to ensure the water remains in optimal conditions for shrimp growth and development. The results of the tests were 282 times, showing an accuracy of 90%.
Attitude, intention, and behavior to reduce food waste among generation X
Authors: Purwanto E , Biasini N , Yulianto A , Gunawan T , Wati V O
Published: April 2023

Food waste is a global problem that affects food safety and the sustainability of the food supply chain. Unfortunately, food waste is still a big problem for Indonesia. Regarding Bappenas, from 2000 to 2019, Indonesia disposed of 23 to 48 million tons of food waste annually, equivalent to 115 to 184 kilograms per capita per year. In response to this issue, in this study, we try to see how people’s attitudes toward food waste will contribute to raising their intentions and actions to cut down on food waste. This study aimed to examine the impact of mindset on Indonesians’ desire to and actions to reduce food waste. The study used a convenience sampling technique, with a total sample of 231. Respondents are Generation X, who are currently 41 to 52 years old. Data was gathered from March to May 2022. The study’s results prove that attitude positively and significantly affects intention and behavior to cut down on food waste. Additionally, the impact of the intention to reduce food waste also emerged as a key factor. Limitation: This study only looks at how attitudes affect Generation Gen X’ intentions and behavior to prevent food waste.. The paper does not include Baby Boomers, Generation Y, and Generation Z in the analysis. Future research and publications can consist of or analyze the impact of attitude on the intention and behaviour of Gen Y or Gen Z members to reduce food waste.
Building early drought forecasting model in the Dak Dak province using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Thai Nguyen Trung
Published: April 2023

Drought is a natural disaster that has severe economic and environmental consequences. In the Dak Lak province, drought has frequently occurred in recent years, causing severe water scarcity in the dry season. Therefore, drought forecasting information will be essential to take timely response measures for water resource management and agricultural production. This study used machine learning methods for drought forecasting in the Dak Lak province. The three machine learning models used in this study include Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Random Forest (RF), combined with the use of the Standardized Precipitation - Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) to predict meteorological droughts. Results showed that the ANN models give high accuracy in the drought prediction for the study area.
Mapping agro-climatic zone for coffee crop in the Srepok River Basin
Authors: Tram Nguyen Ngoc Bich , Sieng Nguyen Thuy , Khoi Dao Nguyen
Published: April 2023

The objective of the present study was to map the agro-climatic zone for Robusta coffee crop in the Srepok River Basin. In this study, the trends of temperature and precipitation were identified using by the Mann – Kendall non-parametric test, the water deficit was calculated based on the CROPWAT model, and the agro-climatic zones for Robusta coffee crop were mapped using geographic information system (GIS). Results showed that the average annual temperature and the average annual rainfall had increasing trends. In addition, five agro-climatic zones were identified in the study area, including very appropriate, appropriate, neutral, restricted and inappropriate. Most of the territory was classified as Moderately Suitable for Robusta coffee. Suitable areas for the coffee cultivation were found in the east of the basin. Agro-climatic zoning will help managers and farmers improve crop yields effectively, avoid climate risks and maximize local advantages.
Monitoring Droughts in the Vu Gia-Thu Bon River Basin Using the Cloud-Based Google Earth Engine
Authors: An Nguyen Van , Tuong Nguyen Thanh , Hanh Le Ngoc , An Tran Thi
Published: April 2023

This study implemented an index-based approach to monitor drought in the Vu Gia – Thu Bon river basin using remote sensing data and Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud computing services. Landsat’s time-series remote sensing data are effectively used to calculate various drought indices. In this investigation, we evaluated the performance of various remote sensing-based drought indices (RSDI) utilizing the cloud-based Google Earth Engine (GEE) computing platform. Results indicated that there was a significant correlation between RSDI and the in-situ Potential Evapotranspiration (PET) and the soil temperature. The empirical results of this study demonstrated the possible utility of remote sensing data in drought monitoring for data-scarce regions.
Assessment and zoning of self-cleaning ability of urban inner canal group in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: Hung Bui Viet , Diep Nguyen Ngoc , Ngan Tran Kim , Nam Nguyen Thanh
Published: April 2023

The rapid urbanization of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is a huge pressure upon the surface water quality as well as its self-cleaning capacity. Every day, a large amount of domestic wastewater is discharged directly into the canal system with concentrations of toxic pollutant components. The assessment of the quality and self-cleaning capacity of canal water by the oxy declining process is a basic foundation for the planning and management of waste water drainage and treatment system in the City. With the application of oxy declining and osmotic experiential coefficient formulas into the oxidation process equation (Streeter-Phelpse), the self-cleaning capacity are determined and classified at any time and positions. The self-cleaning capacity depended on the hydraulic and quality condition of canals. The research of self-cleaning capacity is implemented for urban inner canal system of HCMC in the period 2012 – 2021. Based on the assessment’s results, the distribution of self-cleaning capacity levels is mapped to analyse the changes and zone. The zoning maps expressed suitability the distribution levels of self-cleaning capacity with high visualization. And they are a valuable basis for planning and decision making on the solutions to improve environment quality of the relative management agencies of HCMC.
Applying geographically weighted regression to quantify the impact of impervious surface density on land surface temperature in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen N T , Pham C C , Nguyen T N H
Published: April 2023

Surface characteristics are believed to be the primary factor causing spatial variation in land surface temperature (LST), especially in a large and rapidly growing city like Ho Chi Minh City. The study aims to estimate the spatial relationship between land surface temperature (LST) and impervious surface density (ISA) by using three statistical techniques: 1) Optimized hot spot analysis; 2) Global linear regression (OLS); and 3) Geographically weighted regression (GWR). LST and ISA were extracted from Landsat 8 OLI of 2020. According to the optimized hot spot analysis’s findings, over 80% of the areas of high ISA values (mean ISA: 0.86, SD: 0.13) overlap with areas of high LST values (mean LST: 36.2°C, SD: 2.04°C), with a correlation coefficient of r=0.775. Likewise, Moran’s I index (I=0.82, Z=72, P<0.001) indicates that LST in Ho Chi Minh City has a significantly spatial dependence, so geographically weighted regression (GWR) and global linear (OLS) models need to be taken into account simultaneously. Coefficient of determination R2 and AICc (Akaike information criterion corrected) were used to compare the models. R2 increases from 0.78 to 0.87, whereas AICc decreases from 8047 to 7033 in OLS and GWR, respectively. GWR has a more substantial explanatory power for the association between LST and ISA and offers superior LST prediction accuracy compared to OLS. Potential urban heat island areas can be accurately detected by combining GWR and optimized hot spot analysis.
Development of environmental data for land use regression models to assess fine particulate matter pollution in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: Cong-Thanh Tran , Tuyen Nguyen Ngoc , Hang Nguyen Thi Thuy
Published: April 2023

Land use regression (LUR) model is a common method for assessing ambient air pollution in metropolis, such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The LUR model utilizes PM2.5 concentrations as a dependent variable and traffic, topography, and land use variables..., named as environmental data, as independent variables in multiple linear regression analysis. Currently, the PM2.5 pollution is one of the most concerning environmental issues in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). Particularly, in the context of current limited air pollution monitoring resources of the city, the LUR model usage for PM2.5 pollution assessment at the level of the whole city may be a possible solution. However, the environmental data for using in the LUR model in HCMC is not available. Thus, this study was conducted to prepare environmental data for applying in the LUR model in upcoming studies. The study selected potential environmental variables in HCMC and continued to deal with databases selection for developing these environmental variables. The major result of the study is that a database of environmental data in HCMC was developed, including 26 variables categorized into five groups, including (1) Meteorological data, (2) Traffic-related data, (3) Population data, (4) Land use data, and (5) Social-economic data. Moreover, the study established a conceptual framework for environmental data collection. Finally, environmental data of several fixed sites, where PM2.5 concentrations were monitored in our previous studies, was extracted as an illustration.
Analysing impacts of hydropower development on streamflow of Srepok river basin, Vietnam
Authors: Nhi P T T
Published: April 2023

Water resources are increasingly scarce and depleted owing to the effects of local socio-economic development. Hydropower development changes the hydrological regime and the amount of alluvium downstream through the process of reservoir regulation and operation. To evaluate the potential of reservoir effect on river basin flow, we performed a flow assessment in the presence of structures and compared it with control case in which there are no reservoirs. In the Srepok river basin with many hydroelectric power plants built on terraces on rivers. Due to the dense construction surrounding the river, the flow has changed and there have been incidents of hydropower causing damage to crops and households. The results show that, in general, due to the influence of hydroelectric reservoirs, the annual flow is not significantly reduced and the amount of alluvium tends to increase. This research was conducted to provide comprehensive information on hydropower development, and at the same time provide a reliable source of information to help managers make timely and accurate decisions.
New value of old knowledge: sulphur-based GaAs surface passivation and potential GaAs application in molecular electronics and spintronics
Authors: Tyagi Pawan
Published: April 2023

GaAs is well known for its extremely high electron mobility and direct band gap. Owing to the technological advances in silicon-based technology, GaAs has been limited to niche areas. This paper discusses the application of GaAs in molecular electronics and spintronics as a potential field for considering this amazing but challenging material. GaAs is challenging because its surface is characterized by a high density of surface states, which precludes the utilization of this semiconducting material in mainstream devices. Sulfur(S)-based passivation has been found to be significantly useful for reducing the effect of dangling bonds and was researched thoroughly. GaAs applications in molecular spintronics and electronics can benefit significantly from prior knowledge of GaAs and S interactions because S is a popular functional group for bonding molecular device elements with different semiconductors and metals. In this article, the problem associated with the GaAs surface is discussed in a tutorial form. A wide variety of surface passivation methods has been briefly introduced. We attempted to highlight the significant differences in the S-GaAs interactions for different S passivation methods. We also elaborate on the mechanisms and atomic-scale understanding of the variation in surface chemistry and reconstruction due to various S passivation methods. It is envisioned that GaAs and thiol-terminated molecule-based novel devices can exhibit innovative device characteristics and bring the added advantage of S-based passivation.
A novel design of mechanical metamaterial incorporating multiple negative indexes
Authors: Yao Yu , He Ling Hui , Jin Jian Hai , Ding Jun
Published: April 2023

Mechanical metamaterials that combine multiple negative properties are rare, but have great appeal for applications in multipurpose devices. Herein, a novel metamaterial incorporating negative Poisson’s ratio, negative compressibility, and negative thermal expansion or swelling was proposed. The unit cell was designed by simulating the bond structure of lead monoxide crystals using elastic beams. Analytical models for the mechanical responses of the unit cell were established, and expressions for Young’s modulus, thermal expansion, Poisson’s ratio, and compressibility were derived and confirmed by numerical simulations. The results showed that the metamaterial not only displayed a negative Poisson’s ratio but also had negative linear and area compressibilities as well as negative linear, area, and volume thermal expansions if the geometric parameters were properly adjusted. Furthermore, metamaterials with negative linearity and area swelling were obtained experimentally by replacing the thermal expansion of the material with the water absorption expansion of a hydrogel. Such metamaterials with multiple negative indexes are expected to contribute to the feasibility of advanced multifunctional devices with mechanical, pressure, temperature, and moisture sensitivities.
Multilayered logical qubits and synthesized quantum bits
Authors: Jin Ki-Sung , Cha Gyu-Il
Published: April 2023

Quantum error correction is likely to be key in obtaining near term quantum advantage. We propose a novel method for providing multiple logical qubits in the correction of quantum errors using classical computers. The core idea of our work is built upon two main pillars: dividing the Hilbert space into reduced Hilbert spaces with individual logical qubits and synthesizing the reduced Hilbert spaces through a mathematical collaborating between classical bits and logical quantum states. We demonstrate that our method supports at least 20 logical qubits in a surface code with a code distance of 3. Furthermore, we generate entangled states of multiple logical qubits from lattice surgery-based surface codes using only physical qubit operations. This approach enables classical computers to support a larger number of logical qubits using less memory and perform faster simulations.
Policy supports for the deployment of solar fuels: islands as test-beds for a rapid green transition
Authors: Farràs Pau , M Machado Júlia T , Flynn Brendan , Williamson Joshua
Published: April 2023

Coastal areas, particularly islands, are especially vulnerable to climate change due to their geographic and climate conditions. Reaching decarbonisation targets is a long process, which will require radical changes and ‘out of the box’ thinking. In this context, islands have become laboratories for the green transition by providing spaces for exploring possibilities and alternatives. Here we explore how hydrogen (H2) energy technologies can be a critical ally for island production of renewable electricity in part by providing a storage solution. However, given the abundance of sunlight on many islands, we also note the huge potential for a more profound engagement between renewables and hydrogen technologies via the co-generation of ‘green hydrogen’ using solar fuels technology. Solar hydrogen is a clean energy carrier produced by the direct or indirect use of solar irradiation for water-splitting processes such as photovoltaic systems coupled with electrolysers and photoelectrochemical cells. While this technology is fast emerging, we question to what extent sufficient policy support exists for such initiatives and how they could be scaled up. We report on a case study of a pilot H2 plant in the Canary Islands, and we offer recommendations on early-stage policy implications for hydrogen and other solar fuels in an island setting. The paper draws on the literature on islands as policy laboratories and the multi-level perspective on energy transitions. We argue that particular attention needs to be given to discrete issues such as research and planning, and better synchronising between emerging local technology niches, the various regulatory regimes for energy, together with global trends.
Point of care approaches to 3D bioprinting for wound healing applications
Authors: Wallace Eileen R , Yue Zhilian , Dottori Mirella , Wood Fiona M , Fear Mark , Wallace Gordon G , Beirne Stephen
Published: April 2023

In the quest to improve both aesthetic and functional outcomes for patients, the clinical care of full-thickness cutaneous wounds has undergone significant development over the past decade. A shift from replacement to regeneration has prompted the development of skin substitute products, however, inaccurate replication of host tissue properties continues to stand in the way of realising the ultimate goal of scar-free healing. Advances in three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting and biomaterials used for tissue engineering have converged in recent years to present opportunities to progress this field. However, many of the proposed bioprinting strategies for wound healing involve lengthy in-vitro cell culture and construct maturation periods, employ complex deposition technologies, and lack credible point of care (POC) delivery protocols. In-situ bioprinting is an alternative strategy which can combat these challenges. In order to survive the journey to bedside, printing protocols must be curated, and biomaterials/cells selected which facilitate intraoperative delivery. In this review, the current status of in-situ 3D bioprinting systems for wound healing applications is discussed, highlighting the delivery methods employed, biomaterials/cellular components utilised and anticipated translational challenges. We believe that with the growth of collaborative networks between researchers, clinicians, commercial, ethical, and regulatory experts, in-situ 3D bioprinting has the potential to transform POC wound care treatment.
Experimental and numerical study on the influence of flow passages in centrifugal fan using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Patel Babubhai Viral Kumar , Chaudhari Abhimanyu , Sharma Ashwani , Diwakar Vikas
Published: April 2023

In this work, three actual impeller geometries of identical size, with backward, radial, and forward flow passages in the same volute casing, are experimentally analysed and numerically simulated to understand the flow physics characteristics and the performance mapping under different flowrate conditions. A grid independence test is carried out for the whole computational domain to capture complex flow behaviour inside blades. The three-dimensional numerical analysis is performed under steady flow conditions, and for a rotational domain, a moving reference frame approach (frozen rotor method) is used. The results obtained from experimental and simulated cases for backward, radial, and forward curved centrifugal fans with varying mass flowrates shows that static pressure and total pressure are increased with an increase in rotation speed and the static pressure gradient is higher in forward curved blades than in backward and radial bladed centrifugal fans. A blade’s low and high-pressure regions along the suction and pressure sides are visualised by numerical analysis. The degree of recirculation within blade passages, flow reversal and vortex formation in volute and tongue regions is observed to be different in all three types of flow passages, which clearly describes its influence on the performance characteristics of centrifugal fans.
Long-term potentiation mechanism of biological postsynaptic activity in neuro-inspired halide perovskite memristors
Authors: Hernández-Balaguera Enrique , Munoz-Díaz Laura , Bou Agustín , Romero Beatriz , Ilyassov Baurzhan , Guerrero Antonio , Bisquert Juan
Published: April 2023

Perovskite memristors have emerged as leading contenders in brain-inspired neuromorphic electronics. Although these devices have been shown to accurately reproduce synaptic dynamics, they pose challenges for in-depth understanding of the underlying nonlinear phenomena. Potentiation effects on the electrical conductance of memristive devices have attracted increasing attention from the emerging neuromorphic community, demanding adequate interpretation. Here, we propose a detailed interpretation of the temporal dynamics of potentiation based on nonlinear electrical circuits that can be validated by impedance spectroscopy. The fundamental observation is that the current in a capacitor decreases with time; conversely, for an inductor, it increases with time. There is no electromagnetic effect in a halide perovskite memristor, but ionic-electronic coupling creates a chemical inductor effect that lies behind the potentiation property. Therefore, we show that beyond negative transients, the accumulation of mobile ions and the eventual penetration into the charge-transport layers constitute a bioelectrical memory feature that is the key to long-term synaptic enhancement. A quantitative dynamical electrical model formed by nonlinear differential equations explains the memory-based ionic effects to inductive phenomena associated with the slow and delayed currents, invisible during the ‘off mode’ of the presynaptic spike-based stimuli. Our work opens a new pathway for the rational development of material mimesis of neural communications across synapses, particularly the learning and memory functions in the human brain, through a Hodgkin–Huxley-style biophysical model.
Temporal and spatial variability of energy intensity for atmospheric water generators
Authors: Brenes Anthony T , Chini Christopher M
Published: April 2023

Atmospheric water generators (AWGs) produce potable water from the moisture in the air, providing a potentially viable water source in austere locations or emergency response scenarios. In this study, the operating constraints of three existing commercially available AWG devices are investigated, compared to historical weather data from across the continental United States. Utilizing linear regression modeling and weather station data for the years of 1985–2019, the monthly and spatial trends of energy demand to produce water from these devices are estimated. Energy and water production efficiencies for the devices are highly dependent on environmental conditions with relative humidity (RH) and temperature as the two driving factors. Publicly available manufacturer specifications for each AWG system were modeled to predict yield and specific energy consumption (SEC). A spatial analysis depicts the change in SEC in kilowatt-hours per liter (kWh l−1) across the country at a monthly scale. SEC for refrigeration AWG ranged between 0.02 and 3.64 kWh l−1 and solar driven sorption was between 3.19 and 5.29 kWh l−1, significantly larger than conventional water treatment energy demands. Additionally, the results are synthesized based on the Köppen–Geiger climate classification system, to approximate projected water production and energy demand for each environment, with arid climates demanding larger energy consumption per unit volume of water produced. Excluding arid and cold climate classes, solar powered refrigeration devices have the potential to operate more efficiently than solar driven sorption due to advances in photovoltaic solar panel technology, but still require more energy than alternatives.
Which Intervention Strategies Promote the Adoption and Maintenance of Physical Activity? Evidence From Behavioral Trials With Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sheeran Paschal , Wright Charles E , Listrom Olivia , Klein William M P , Rothman Alexander J
Published: April 2023

Background/Purpose

We address four questions about interventions to promote physical activity in cancer survivors: (a) How often is both the adoption and maintenance of behavior change tested in trials? (b) How often do interventions generate adoption-plus-maintenance of behavior change? (c) Are intervention strategies specifically geared at promoting maintenance of behavior change deployed in trials? and (d) Which intervention strategies distinguish trials that promote both the adoption and maintenance of physical activity from trials that promote adoption-only or generate no behavioral changes?

Methods

Computerized literature searches identified 206 reports of randomized trials that measured physical activity in the wake of the intervention.

Results

Only 51 reports (24%) measured both behavioral adoption (postintervention) and behavioral maintenance (≥3 months follow-up). The 51 reports included 58 tests of interventions; 22% of tests observed both adoption and maintenance of physical activity, 26% reported adoption-only, and 52% found no change in behavior. Change techniques designed to promote behavioral maintenance were used much less frequently than adoption techniques or adoption and maintenance techniques. Interventions that aimed to improve quality of life, used supervised exercise sessions, were undertaken in community centers, and deployed fewer behavior change techniques were associated with adoption-plus-maintenance of physical activity in cancer survivors.

Conclusions

The present findings offer new insights into the adoption and maintenance of physical activity and highlight the need to routinely assess these forms of behavior change in future trials. More extensive testing of intervention strategies specifically geared at maintenance of behavior change is warranted.
Daily Sleep–Stress Reactivity and Functional Impairment in World Trade Center Responders
Authors: Messman Brett A , Slavish Danica C , Briggs Madasen , Ruggero Camilo J , Luft Benjamin J , Kotov Roman
Published: April 2023

Background

How sleep is impacted by stress (“sleep reactivity to stress”) and how stress is impacted by sleep (“stress reactivity to sleep”) are trait-like characteristics of individuals that predict depression, anxiety, and insomnia. However, pathways between reactivity and functional impairment (e.g., impairment in social relationships and interpersonal functioning) have not been explored, which may be a critical pathway in understanding the link between reactivity and the development of psychological disorders.

Purpose

We examined associations between reactivity and changes in functional impairment among a cohort of 9/11 World Trade Center responders.

Methods

Data from 452 responders (Mage = 55.22 years; 89.4% male) were collected between 2014 and 2016. Four baseline sleep and stress reactivity indices (i.e., sleep duration and efficiency reactivity to stress; stress reactivity to sleep duration and efficiency) were calculated from 14 days of sleep and stress data using random slopes from multilevel models. Functional impairment was assessed approximately 1 year and 2 years after baseline via semi-structured interviews. Latent change score analyses examined associations between baseline reactivity indices and changes in functional impairment.

Results

Greater baseline sleep efficiency reactivity to stress was associated with decreases in functioning (β = −0.05, p = .039). In addition, greater stress reactivity to sleep duration (β = −0.08, p = .017) and sleep efficiency (β = −0.22, p < .001) was associated with lower functioning at timepoint one.

Conclusion

People who are more reactive to daily fluctuations in stress and sleep have poorer interpersonal relationships and social functioning. Identifying individuals with high reactivity who could benefit from preventative treatment may foster better social integration.
Goal-Focused Emotion-Regulation Therapy (GET) in Young Adult Testicular Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Hoyt Michael A , Wang Ashley Wei-Ting , Ceja Raymond Carrillo , Cheavens Jennifer S , Daneshvar Michael A , Feldman Darren R , Funt Samuel A , Nelson Christian J
Published: April 2023

Background

Young adult testicular cancer survivors experience adverse impacts after treatment. We developed Goal-focused Emotion-regulation Therapy (GET) to improve distress symptoms, emotion regulation, and goal navigation skills.

Purpose

This pilot study examined GET versus an active control intervention in young adult survivors of testicular cancer.

Methods

Seventy-five eligible survivors treated with chemotherapy were randomized to receive GET or Individual Supportive Listening (ISL). Study acceptability, engagement, and tolerability were examined, and intervention fidelity and therapeutic alliance were compared between arms. Preliminary efficacy was evaluated by effect sizes for between-group changes in primary (anxiety and depressive symptoms) and secondary (career confusion, goal navigation, and emotion regulation) outcomes from baseline to immediately and 3-month post-intervention.

Results

Among the 38 men randomized to GET, 81.1% completed all study sessions compared with 82.4% of the 37 men assigned to ISL. Fidelity to the intervention was 87% in GET. Therapeutic alliance wassignificantly higher among those receiving GET versus ISL. Participants exhibited a medium group-by-time effect size with greater reductions in depressive (d = 0.45) and anxiety (d = 0.29) symptoms for those in GET versus ISL, with a similar pattern at 3 months for depressive (d = 0.46) and anxiety (d = 0.46) symptoms.

Conclusions

GET is a feasible and acceptable intervention for reducing adverse outcomes after testicular cancer for young adults. Observed effect sizes preliminarily suggest meaningful change, though should be interpreted with caution in small samples. GET may be a developmentally-matched behavioral approach to improve psychosocial function in this cancer group.

Clinical Trial information

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04150848. Registered on October 28, 2019.
The effectiveness of community ageing in place, advancing better living for elders as a biobehavioural environmental approach for disability among low-income older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rahmati Masoud , Keshvari Maryam , Koyanagi Ai , Yon Dong K , Lee Seung W , Shin Jae I , Smith Lee
Published: April 2023

Background

community ageing in place, advancing better living for elders (CAPABLE), which is a biobehavioural environmental approach by addressing individual capacities and the home environment, aims to reduce the impact of disability among low-income older adults.

Objective

this meta-analysis aims to elucidate the efficacy of the CAPABLE program on related outcomes in low-income older adults.

Methods

a systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL and EMBASE was conducted for articles published up to August 2022. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to calculate the pooled effect sizes of the efficacy of the CAPABLE program on home safety hazards, activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental ADLs (IADLs), depression, falls efficacy, pain and quality of life.

Results

seven studies involving 2,921 low-income older adults (1,117 as the CAPABLE group and 1,804 served as a control) with an average age ranging from 65 to 79 were included in the present meta-analysis. Pre–post effect analyses showed that CAPABLE was significantly associated with lower home safety hazards, ADLs, IADLs, depression, falls efficacy, pain and quality of life. Additionally, there were statistically significant associations between the CAPABLE program with improvements in ADLs, IADLs and quality of life compared with controls.

Conclusion

CAPABLE intervention may be a promising strategy to reduce health disparities, and disability limitations, and improve the quality of life in low-income community-dwelling older adults who suffer from disabilities by addressing both the person and the environment.
Characterization of a TetR-type positive regulator AtrA for lincomycin production in Streptomyces lincolnensis
Authors: Wu Wei , Kang Yajing , Hou Bingbing , Ye Jiang , Wang Ruida , Wu Haizhen , Zhang Huizhan
Published: April 2023

AtrA belongs to the TetR family and has been well characterized for its roles in antibiotic biosynthesis regulation. Here, we identified an AtrA homolog (AtrA-lin) in Streptomyces lincolnensis. Disruption of atrA-lin resulted in reduced lincomycin production, whereas the complement restored the lincomycin production level to that of the wild-type. In addition, atrA-lin disruption did not affect cell growth and morphological differentiation. Furthermore, atrA-lin disruption hindered the transcription of regulatory gene lmbU, structural genes lmbA and lmbW inside the lincomycin biosynthesis gene cluster, and 2 other regulatory genes, adpA and bldA. Completement of atrA-lin restored the transcription of these genes to varying degrees. Notably, we found that AtrA-lin directly binds to the promoter region of lmbU. Collectively, AtrA-lin positively modulated lincomycin production via both pathway-specific and global regulators. This study offers further insights into the functional diversity of AtrA homologs and the mechanism of lincomycin biosynthesis regulation.
Isomerization and epimerization of glucose and galactose in arginine solution and phosphate buffer under subcritical fluid conditions
Authors: Kobayashi Takashi , Khuwijitjaru Pramote , Adachi Shuji
Published: April 2023

Reaction of glucose or galactose was performed in arginine solution or phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) using a batch reactor at 110°C. The yields of products, pH, and absorbances at 280 and 420 nm were measured during the reaction. Fructose, mannose, and allulose were formed from glucose; tagatose, talose, and sorbose were done from galactose. The reaction proceeded more rapidly in arginine solution than in phosphate buffer. In arginine solution, yields of fructose and tagatose were 20% and 16%, respectively, after 30-min reaction; in phosphate buffer, they were 14% and 10%, respectively. However, in both reaction media, the pH drop and increase in absorbances continued even after the yield became almost constant. The absorbance increased particularly in the latter half of the reaction due to formation of browning products. Therefore, to avoid browning, the reaction should be stopped as soon as possible after the yield approaches its maximum value.
Adaptive deep propagation graph neural network for predicting miRNA–disease associations
Authors: Hu Hua , Zhao Huan , Zhong Tangbo , Dong Xishang , Wang Lei , Han Pengyong , Li Zhengwei
Published: April 2023

Background

A large number of experiments show that the abnormal expression of miRNA is closely related to the occurrence, diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Identifying associations between miRNAs and diseases is important for clinical applications of complex human diseases. However, traditional biological experimental methods and calculation-based methods have many limitations, which lead to the development of more efficient and accurate deep learning methods for predicting miRNA–disease associations.

Results

In this paper, we propose a novel model on the basis of adaptive deep propagation graph neural network to predict miRNA–disease associations (ADPMDA). We first construct the miRNA–disease heterogeneous graph based on known miRNA–disease pairs, miRNA integrated similarity information, miRNA sequence information and disease similarity information. Then, we project the features of miRNAs and diseases into a low-dimensional space. After that, attention mechanism is utilized to aggregate the local features of central nodes. In particular, an adaptive deep propagation graph neural network is employed to learn the embedding of nodes, which can adaptively adjust the local and global information of nodes. Finally, the multi-layer perceptron is leveraged to score miRNA–disease pairs.

Conclusion

Experiments on human microRNA disease database v3.0 dataset show that ADPMDA achieves the mean AUC value of 94.75% under 5-fold cross-validation. We further conduct case studies on the esophageal neoplasm, lung neoplasms and lymphoma to confirm the effectiveness of our proposed model, and 49, 49, 47 of the top 50 predicted miRNAs associated with these diseases are confirmed, respectively. These results demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of our model in predicting miRNA–disease associations.
The DynaSig-ML Python package: automated learning of biomolecular dynamics–function relationships
Authors: Mailhot Olivier , Major François , Najmanovich Rafael
Published: April 2023

The DynaSig-ML (‘Dynamical Signatures–Machine Learning’) Python package allows the efficient, user-friendly exploration of 3D dynamics–function relationships in biomolecules, using datasets of experimental measures from large numbers of sequence variants. It does so by predicting 3D structural dynamics for every variant using the Elastic Network Contact Model (ENCoM), a sequence-sensitive coarse-grained normal mode analysis model. Dynamical Signatures represent the fluctuation at every position in the biomolecule and are used as features fed into machine learning models of the user’s choice. Once trained, these models can be used to predict experimental outcomes for theoretical variants. The whole pipeline can be run with just a few lines of Python and modest computational resources. The compute-intensive steps are easily parallelized in the case of either large biomolecules or vast amounts of sequence variants. As an example application, we use the DynaSig-ML package to predict the maturation efficiency of human microRNA miR-125a variants from high-throughput enzymatic assays.

Availability and implementation

DynaSig-ML is open-source software available at https://github.com/gregorpatof/dynasigml_package.