bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple and Robust Boolean Operations for Triangulated Surfaces
Authors: Zhou Meijun , Qin Jiayu , Mei Gang , Tipper John C.
Published: June 2023

Boolean operations on geometric models are important in numerical simulation and serve as essential tools in the fields of computer-aided design and computer graphics. The accuracy of these operations is heavily influenced by finite precision arithmetic, a commonly employed technique in geometric calculations, which introduces numerical approximations. To ensure robustness in Boolean operations, numerical methods relying on rational numbers or geometric predicates have been developed. These methods circumvent the accumulation of rounding errors during computation, thus preserving accuracy. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that these approaches often entail more intricate operation rules and data structures, consequently leading to longer computation times. In this paper, we present a straightforward and robust method for performing Boolean operations on both closed and open triangulated surfaces. Our approach aims to eliminate errors caused by floating-point operations by relying solely on entity indexing operations, without the need for coordinate computation. By doing so, we ensure the robustness required for Boolean operations. Our method consists of two main stages: (1) Firstly, candidate triangle intersection pairs are identified using an octree data structure, and then parallel algorithms are employed to compute the intersection lines for all pairs of triangles. (2) Secondly, closed or open intersection rings, sub-surfaces, and sub-blocks are formed, which is achieved entirely by cleaning and updating the mesh topology without geometric solid coordinate computation. Furthermore, we propose a novel method based on entity indexing to differentiate between the union, subtraction, and intersection of Boolean operation results, rather than relying on inner and outer classification. We validate the effectiveness of our method through various types of Boolean operations on triangulated surfaces.
Optimal Dirichlet Boundary Control for the Corotational Oldroyd Model
Authors: Baranovskii Evgenii S. , Artemov Mikhail A.
Published: June 2023

In this article, we investigate an optimal control problem for the coupled system of partial differential equations describing the steady-state flow of a corotational-type Oldroyd fluid through a bounded 3D (or 2D) domain. The control function is included in Dirichlet boundary conditions for the velocity field; in other words, we consider a model of inflow–outflow control. The main result is a theorem that states sufficient conditions for the solvability of the corresponding optimization problem in the set of admissible weak solutions. Namely, we establish the existence of a weak solution that minimizes the cost functional under given constraints on controls and states.
Surrogate-Based Physics-Informed Neural Networks for Elliptic Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Zhi Peng , Wu Yuching , Qi Cheng , Zhu Tao , Wu Xiao , Wu Hongyu
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role that a deep learning approach could play in computational mechanics. In this paper, a convolutional neural network technique based on modified loss function is proposed as a surrogate of the finite element method (FEM). Several surrogate-based physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) are developed to solve representative boundary value problems based on elliptic partial differential equations (PDEs). According to the authors’ knowledge, the proposed method has been applied for the first time to solve boundary value problems with elliptic partial differential equations as the governing equations. The results of the proposed surrogate-based approach are in good agreement with those of the conventional FEM. It is found that modification of the loss function could improve the prediction accuracy of the neural network. It is demonstrated that to some extent, the deep learning approach could replace the conventional numerical method as a significant surrogate model.
Enhancing Precision in Large-Scale Data Analysis: An Innovative Robust Imputation Algorithm for Managing Outliers and Missing Values
Authors: Templ Matthias
Published: June 2023

Navigating the intricate world of data analytics, one method has emerged as a key tool in confronting missing data: multiple imputation. Its strength is further fortified by its powerful variant, robust imputation, which enhances the precision and reliability of its results. In the challenging landscape of data analysis, non-robust methods can be swayed by a few extreme outliers, leading to skewed imputations and biased estimates. This can apply to both representative outliers—those true yet unusual values of your population—and non-representative outliers, which are mere measurement errors. Detecting these outliers in large or high-dimensional data sets often becomes as complex as unraveling a Gordian knot. The solution? Turn to robust imputation methods. Robust (imputation) methods effectively manage outliers and exhibit remarkable resistance to their influence, providing a more reliable approach to dealing with missing data. Moreover, these robust methods offer flexibility, accommodating even if the imputation model used is not a perfect fit. They are akin to a well-designed buffer system, absorbing slight deviations without compromising overall stability. In the latest advancement of statistical methodology, a new robust imputation algorithm has been introduced. This innovative solution addresses three significant challenges with robustness. It utilizes robust bootstrapping to manage model uncertainty during the imputation of a random sample; it incorporates robust fitting to reinforce accuracy; and it takes into account imputation uncertainty in a resilient manner. Furthermore, any complex regression or classification model for any variable with missing data can be run through the algorithm. With this new algorithm, we move one step closer to optimizing the accuracy and reliability of handling missing data. Using a realistic data set and a simulation study including a sensitivity analysis, the new alogorithm imputeRobust shows excellent performance compared with other common methods. Effectiveness was demonstrated by measures of precision for the prediction error, the coverage rates, and the mean square errors of the estimators, as well as by visual comparisons.
Diversification of Bourbon Virus in New York State
Authors: Lange Rachel E. , Dupuis Alan P. , Ciota Alexander T.
Published: June 2023

Bourbon virus (BRBV, family Orthomyxoviridae) is a tickborne virus recently detected in the United States (US). BRBV was first identified from a fatal human case in 2014 in Bourbon County, Kansas. Enhanced surveillance in Kansas and Missouri implicated Amblyomma americanum as the primary vector for BRBV. Historically, BRBV was only detected in the lower midwestern US, but since 2020 it has been reported in North Carolina, Virginia, New Jersey, and New York State (NYS). This study aimed to elucidate genetic and phenotypic characteristics of BRBV strains from NYS through whole genome sequencing and the assessment of replication kinetics in mammalian cultures and A. americanum nymphs. Sequence analysis revealed the existence of two divergent BRBV clades circulating in NYS. BRBV NY21-2143 is closely related to the midwestern BRBV strains but has unique substitutions in the glycoprotein. Two other NYS BRBV strains, BRBV NY21-1814 and BRBV NY21-2666, form a distinct clade unique from previously sequenced BRBV strains. Phenotypic diversification was also detected in NYS BRBV strains compared to each other and midwestern BRBV strains, with BRBV NY21-2143 displaying attenuation in rodent-derived cell culture and a fitness advantage in experimentally infected A. americanum. These data suggest genetic and phenotypic diversification of emergent BRBV strains circulating in NYS that could contribute to increased spread of BRBV in the northeastern US.
Amphetamine-Related Fatalities and Altered Brain Chemicals: A Preliminary Investigation Using the Comparative Toxicogenomic Database
Authors: Tumayhi Murad , Banji David , Khardali Ibrahim , Banji Otilia J. F. , Alshahrani Saeed , Alqahtani Saad S. , Muqri Safiah , Abdullah Amal , Sherwani Wedad , Attafi Ibraheem
Published: June 2023

Amphetamine is a psychostimulant drug with a high risk of toxicity and death when misused. Abuse of amphetamines is associated with an altered organic profile, which includes omega fatty acids. Low omega fatty acid levels are linked to mental disorders. Using the Comparative Toxicogenomic Database (CTD), we investigated the chemical profile of the brain in amphetamine-related fatalities and the possibility of neurotoxicity. We classified amphetamine cases as low (0–0.5 g/mL), medium (>0.5 to 1.5 g/mL), and high (>1.5 g/mL), based on amphetamine levels in brain samples. All three groups shared 1-octadecene, 1-tridecene, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, arachidonic acid (AA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosane, and oleylamide. We identified chemical–disease associations using the CTD tools and predicted an association between DHA, AA and curated conditions like autistic disorder, disorders related to cocaine, Alzheimer’s disease, and cognitive dysfunction. An amphetamine challenge may cause neurotoxicity in the human brain due to a decrease in omega-3 fatty acids and an increase in oxidative products. Therefore, in cases of amphetamine toxicity, a supplement therapy may be needed to prevent omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
Calcium Phosphate-Based Nanomaterials: Preparation, Multifunction, and Application for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Huizhang , Ma Yinhua , Jiang Yingying
Published: June 2023

Calcium phosphate is the main inorganic component of bone. Calcium phosphate-based biomaterials have demonstrated great potential in bone tissue engineering due to their superior biocompatibility, pH-responsive degradability, excellent osteoinductivity, and similar components to bone. Calcium phosphate nanomaterials have gained more and more attention for their enhanced bioactivity and better integration with host tissues. Additionally, they can also be easily functionalized with metal ions, bioactive molecules/proteins, as well as therapeutic drugs; thus, calcium phosphate-based biomaterials have been widely used in many other fields, such as drug delivery, cancer therapy, and as nanoprobes in bioimaging. Thus, the preparation methods of calcium phosphate nanomaterials were systematically reviewed, and the multifunction strategies of calcium phosphate-based biomaterials have also been comprehensively summarized. Finally, the applications and perspectives of functionalized calcium phosphate biomaterials in bone tissue engineering, including bone defect repair, bone regeneration, and drug delivery, were illustrated and discussed by presenting typical examples.
Research Progress on Neuroprotective Effects of Isoquinoline Alkaloids
Authors: Li Jinhua , Wu Yarong , Dong Shuze , Yu Ye , Wu Yuhao , Xiang Benhan , Li Qin
Published: June 2023

Neuronal injury and apoptosis are important causes of the occurrence and development of many neurodegenerative diseases, such as cerebral ischemia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Although the detailed mechanism of some diseases is unknown, the loss of neurons in the brain is still the main pathological feature. By exerting the neuroprotective effects of drugs, it is of great significance to alleviate the symptoms and improve the prognosis of these diseases. Isoquinoline alkaloids are important active ingredients in many traditional Chinese medicines. These substances have a wide range of pharmacological effects and significant activity. Although some studies have suggested that isoquinoline alkaloids may have pharmacological activities for treating neurodegenerative diseases, there is currently a lack of a comprehensive summary regarding their mechanisms and characteristics in neuroprotection. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the active components found in isoquinoline alkaloids that have neuroprotective effects. It thoroughly explains the various mechanisms behind the neuroprotective effects of isoquinoline alkaloids and summarizes their common characteristics. This information can serve as a reference for further research on the neuroprotective effects of isoquinoline alkaloids.
Characterization of Metabolic Correlations of Ursodeoxycholic Acid with Other Bile Acid Species through In Vitro Sequential Metabolism and Isomer-Focused Identification
Authors: Li Wei , Chen Wei , Niu Xiaoya , Zhao Chen , Tu Pengfei , Li Jun , Liu Wenjing , Song Yuelin
Published: June 2023

As a first-line agent for cholestasis treatment in a clinic, ursodeoxycholic acid rectifies the perturbed bile acids (BAs) submetabolome in a holistic manner. Considering the endogenous distribution of ursodeoxycholic acid and extensive occurrences of isomeric metabolites, it is challenging to point out whether a given bile acid species is impacted by ursodeoxycholic acid in a direct or indirect manner, thus hindering the therapeutic mechanism clarification. Here, an in-depth exploration of the metabolism pattern of ursodeoxycholic acid was attempted. Sequential metabolism in vitro with enzyme-enriched liver microsomes was implemented to simulate the step-wise metabolism and to capture the metabolically labile intermediates in the absence of endogenous BAs. Squared energy-resolved mass spectrometry (ER2-MS) was utilized to achieve isomeric identification of the conjugated metabolites. As a result, 20 metabolites (M1–M20) in total were observed and confirmatively identified. Of those, eight metabolites were generated by hydroxylation, oxidation, and epimerization, which were further metabolized to nine glucuronides and three sulfates by uridine diphosphate-glycosyltransferases and sulfotransferases, respectively. Regarding a given phase II metabolite, the conjugation sites were correlated with first-generation breakdown graphs corresponding to the linkage fission mediated by collision-induced dissociation, and the structural nuclei were identified by matching second-generation breakdown graphs with the known structures. Together, except for intestinal-bacteria-involved biotransformation, the current study characterized BA species directly influenced by ursodeoxycholic acid administration. Moreover, sequential metabolism in vitro should be a meaningful way of characterizing the metabolic pathways of endogenous substances, and squared energy-resolved mass spectrometry is a legitimate tool for structurally identifying phase II metabolites.
Toughening Effect of 2,5-Furandicaboxylate Polyesters on Polylactide-Based Renewable Fibers
Authors: Fredi Giulia , Zonta Edoardo , Dussin Alessandro , Bikiaris Dimitrios N. , Papageorgiou George Z. , Fambri Luca , Dorigato Andrea
Published: June 2023

This work presents the successful preparation and characterization of polylactide/poly(propylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PLA/PPF) and polylactide/poly(butylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PLA/PBF) blends in form of bulk and fiber samples and investigates the influence of poly(alkylene furanoate) (PAF) concentration (0 to 20 wt%) and compatibilization on the physical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Both blend types, although immiscible, are successfully compatibilized by Joncryl (J), which improves the interfacial adhesion and reduces the size of PPF and PBF domains. Mechanical tests on bulk samples show that only PBF is able to effectively toughen PLA, as PLA/PBF blends with 5–10 wt% PBF showed a distinct yield point, remarkable necking propagation, and increased strain at break (up to 55%), while PPF did not show significant plasticizing effects. The toughening ability of PBF is attributed to its lower glass transition temperature and greater toughness than PPF. For fiber samples, increasing the PPF and PBF amount improves the elastic modulus and mechanical strength, particularly for PBF-containing fibers collected at higher take-up speeds. Remarkably, in fiber samples, plasticizing effects are observed for both PPF and PBF, with significantly higher strain at break values compared to neat PLA (up to 455%), likely due to a further microstructural homogenization, enhanced compatibility, and load transfer between PLA and PAF phases following the fiber spinning process. SEM analysis confirms the deformation of PPF domains, which is probably due to a “plastic–rubber” transition during tensile testing. The orientation and possible crystallization of PPF and PBF domains contribute to increased tensile strength and elastic modulus. This work showcases the potential of PPF and PBF in tailoring the thermo-mechanical properties of PLA in both bulk and fiber forms, expanding their applications in the packaging and textile industry.
Structure-Based Design of Novel MAO-B Inhibitors: A Review
Authors: Mateev Emilio , Georgieva Maya , Mateeva Alexandrina , Zlatkov Alexander , Ahmad Shaban , Raza Khalid , Azevedo Vasco , Barh Debmalya
Published: June 2023

With the significant growth of patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), novel classes of compounds targeting monoamine oxidase type B (MAO-B) are promptly emerging as distinguished structures for the treatment of the latter. As a promising function of computer-aided drug design (CADD), structure-based virtual screening (SBVS) is being heavily applied in processes of drug discovery and development. The utilization of molecular docking, as a helping tool for SBVS, is providing essential data about the poses and the occurring interactions between ligands and target molecules. The current work presents a brief discussion of the role of MAOs in the treatment of NDs, insight into the advantages and drawbacks of docking simulations and docking software, and a look into the active sites of MAO-A and MAO-B and their main characteristics. Thereafter, we report new chemical classes of MAO-B inhibitors and the essential fragments required for stable interactions focusing mainly on papers published in the last five years. The reviewed cases are separated into several chemically distinct groups. Moreover, a modest table for rapid revision of the revised works including the structures of the reported inhibitors together with the utilized docking software and the PDB codes of the crystal targets applied in each study is provided. Our work could be beneficial for further investigations in the search for novel, effective, and selective MAO-B inhibitors.
HPLC-PDA Method for Quantification of Bioactive Compounds in Crude Extract and Fractions of Aucklandia costus Falc. and Cytotoxicity Studies against Cancer Cells
Authors: Bhushan Anil , Rani Dixhya , Tabassum Misbah , Kumar Saajan , Gupta Prem N. , Gairola Sumeet , Gupta Ajai P. , Gupta Prasoon
Published: June 2023

Aucklandia costus Falc. (Synonym: Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch.) is a perennial herb of the family Asteraceae. The dried rhizome is an essential herb in the traditional systems of medicine in India, China and Tibet. The important pharmacological activities reported for Aucklandia costus are anticancer, hepatoprotective, antiulcer, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fatigue activities. The objective of this study was the isolation and quantification of four marker compounds in the crude extract and different fractions of A. costus and the evaluation of the anticancer activity of the crude extract and its different fractions. The four marker compounds isolated from A. costus include dehydrocostus lactone, costunolide, syringin and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde. These four compounds were used as standard compounds for quantification. The chromatographic data showed good resolution and excellent linearity (r2 ˃ 0.993). The validation parameters, such as inter- and intraday precision (RSD < 1.96%) and analyte recovery (97.52–110.20%; RSD < 2.00%),revealed the high sensitivity and reliability of the developed HPLC method. The compounds dehydrocostus lactone and costunolide were concentrated in the hexane fraction (222.08 and 65.07 µg/mg, respectively) and chloroform fraction (99.02 and 30.21 µg/mg, respectively), while the n-butanol fraction is a rich source of syringin (37.91 µg/mg) and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (7.94 µg/mg). Further, the SRB assay was performed for the evaluation of anticancer activity using lung, colon, breast and prostate cancer cell lines. The hexane and chloroform fractions show excellent IC50 values of 3.37 ± 0.14 and 7.527 ± 0.18 µg/mL, respectively, against the prostate cancer cell line (PC-3).
Rapid Construction of a Chloromethyl-Substituted Duocarmycin-like Prodrug
Authors: Bengtsson Christoffer , Gravenfors Ylva
Published: June 2023

The construction of duocarmycin-like compounds is often associated with lengthy synthetic routes. Presented herein is the development of a short and convenient synthesis of a type of duocarmycin prodrug. The 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyrrolo[3,2-e]indole-containing core is here constructed from commercially available Boc-5-bromoindole in four steps and 23% overall yield, utilizing a Buchwald–Hartwig amination followed by a sodium hydride-induced regioselective bromination. In addition, protocols for selective mono- and di-halogenations of positions 3 and 4 were also developed, which could be useful for further exploration of this scaffold.
Optical Sensor Methodology for Measuring Shift, Thickness, Refractive Index and Tilt Angle of Thin Films
Authors: Nalimov Anton , Stafeev Sergey , Kotlyar Victor , Kozlova Elena
Published: June 2023

We propose a simple optical method and device design for the non-contact determination of small shift, thickness, refractive index, and tilt angle of thin films. The proposed sensor consists of a laser light source, a third- or two-order spiral amplitude zone plate with a high numerical aperture, and a CCD camera connected to a computer. It is shown that the third-order zone plate transforms the incident Gaussian beam into a three-petal rotating beam. By measuring the rotation angle of the three-petal intensity distribution, one can measure the following: a minimum shift along the optical axis of about 7 nm (the wavelength is 532 nm), a change in the plate thickness by 3 nm, a change in the tilt angle of the plate by 0.1 degrees, and a change in the refractive index by 0.01.
Fusion Object Detection and Action Recognition to Predict Violent Action
Authors: Rodrigues Nelson R. P. , da Costa Nuno M. C. , Melo César , Abbasi Ali , Fonseca Jaime C. , Cardoso Paulo , Borges João
Published: June 2023

In the context of Shared Autonomous Vehicles, the need to monitor the environment inside the car will be crucial. This article focuses on the application of deep learning algorithms to present a fusion monitoring solution which was three different algorithms: a violent action detection system, which recognizes violent behaviors between passengers, a violent object detection system, and a lost items detection system. Public datasets were used for object detection algorithms (COCO and TAO) to train state-of-the-art algorithms such as YOLOv5. For violent action detection, the MoLa InCar dataset was used to train on state-of-the-art algorithms such as I3D, R(2+1)D, SlowFast, TSN, and TSM. Finally, an embedded automotive solution was used to demonstrate that both methods are running in real-time.
A Dual-Optimization Fault Diagnosis Method for Rolling Bearings Based on Hierarchical Slope Entropy and SVM Synergized with Shark Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Li Yuxing , Tang Bingzhao , Huang Bo , Xue Xiaohui
Published: June 2023

Slope entropy (SlopEn) has been widely applied in fault diagnosis and has exhibited excellent performance, while SlopEn suffers from the problem of threshold selection. Aiming to further enhance the identifying capability of SlopEn in fault diagnosis, on the basis of SlopEn, the concept of hierarchy is introduced, and a new complexity feature, namely hierarchical slope entropy (HSlopEn), is proposed. Meanwhile, to address the problems of the threshold selection of HSlopEn and a support vector machine (SVM), the white shark optimizer (WSO) is applied to optimize both HSlopEn and an SVM, and WSO-HSlopEn and WSO-SVM are proposed, respectively. Then, a dual-optimization fault diagnosis method for rolling bearings based on WSO-HSlopEn and WSO-SVM is put forward. We conducted measured experiments on single- and multi-feature scenarios, and the experimental results demonstrated that whether single-feature or multi-feature, the WSO-HSlopEn and WSO-SVM fault diagnosis method has the highest recognition rate compared to other hierarchical entropies; moreover, under multi-features, the recognition rates are all higher than 97.5%, and the more features we select, the better the recognition effect. When five nodes are selected, the highest recognition rate reaches 100%.
Data Acquisition for Condition Monitoring in Tactical Vehicles: On-Board Computer Development
Authors: Ochando Francisco Jose , Cantero Antonio , Guerrero Juan Ignacio , León Carlos
Published: June 2023

This paper outlines the development of an onboard computer prototype for data registration, storage, transformation, and analysis. The system is intended for health and use monitoring systems in military tactical vehicles according to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Standard Agreement for designing vehicle systems using an open architecture. The processor includes a data processing pipeline with three main modules. The first module captures the data received from sensor sources and vehicle network buses, performs a data fusion, and saves the data in a local database or sends them to a remote system for further analysis and fleet management. The second module provides filtering, translation, and interpretation for fault detection; this module will be completed in the future with a condition analysis module. The third module is a communication module for web serving data and data distribution systems according to the standards for interoperability. This development will allow us to analyze the driving performance for efficiency, which helps us to know the vehicle’s condition; the development will also help us deliver information for better tactical decisions in mission systems. This development has been implemented using open software, allowing us to measure the amount of data registered and filter only the relevant data for mission systems, which avoids communication bottlenecks. The on-board pre-analysis will help to conduct condition-based maintenance approaches and fault forecasting using the on-board uploaded fault models, which are trained off-board using the collected data.
Electromyographic and Stabilometric Analysis of the Static and Dynamic “Standing Bird Dog” Exercise
Authors: Losavio Raffaele , Contemori Samuele , Bartoli Stefano , Dieni Cristina V. , Panichi Roberto , Biscarini Andrea
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: The “bird dog” exercise is considered one of the most effective therapeutic exercises for lumbopelvic rehabilitation and the prevention and treatment of low back pain. The “standing bird dog” (SBD) exercise, executed in a single-leg stance, constitutes a natural and challenging variation in the “bird dog”; nevertheless, this exercise has not yet been investigated. This study provides a stabilometric and electromyographic analysis of the SBD performed in static and dynamic conditions and in ipsilateral and contralateral variations; (2) Methods: A time-synchronized motion capture system, wireless electromyography sensors, and triaxial force platform were used to analyze the selected SBD exercises; (3) Results: In dynamic conditions, the gluteus maximum, multifidus, lumbar erector spinae, and gluteus medius reached a mean activation level higher than in the static condition, with peak activation levels of 80%, 60%, 55%, and a 45% maximum voluntary isometric contraction, respectively. In the static condition, balance control was more challenging in the mediolateral compared to the anteroposterior direction. In the dynamic condition, the balance challenge was higher in the anteroposterior direction and higher than the static condition in both directions; (4) Conclusions: The SBD was proved to be effective for strengthening the hip and lumbar extensor muscles and provided a powerful challenge to single-leg balance control in both mediolateral and anteroposterior directions.
Fatigue-Induced Neuromuscular Performance Changes in Professional Male Volleyball Players
Authors: Cabarkapa Damjana V. , Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Whiting Shay M. , Fry Andrew C.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the present study was to assess pre-post practice changes in countermovement vertical jump (CVJ) force-time metrics and to determine the relationship between internal and external load variables within a cohort of professional male volleyball players. Ten elite athletes competing in one of the top professional European leagues participated in the present study. While standing on a uni-axial force plate, each athlete performed three CVJs immediately prior to the regular training session. Each athlete wore an inertial measurement unit (VertTM) through an entire practice from which the following external load metrics were obtained: Stress (i.e., an algorithm-derived metric used to quantify the percentage of high-impact movements), Jumps (i.e., the total number of jumps performed during the practice session), and Active Minutes (i.e., the total amount of time performing dynamic movements). Immediately post-practice, each athlete completed another set of three CVJs and reported their subjective measure of internal load using a Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale (Borg CR-10). While no statistically significant differences were observed in any of the force-time metrics examined in the present study pre-post practice (e.g., eccentric and concentric peak and mean force and power, vertical jump height, contraction time, countermovement depth), our findings indicate a strong positive association between RPE and Stress (r = 0.713) and RPE and Jumps (r = 0.671). However, a weak non-statistically significant correlation was observed between RPE and Active Minutes (r = −0.038), indicating that internal load seems to be more dependent on the intensity rather than the duration of the training session for this sport.
The Impact Mechanism of Digitalization on Green Innovation of Chinese Manufacturing Enterprises: An Empirical Study
Authors: Li Xufang , Fan Dijun , Li Zhuoxuan , Pan Mingzhu
Published: June 2023

With the rapid development of the digital economy, promoting green innovation through digitalization has become an important means for manufacturing enterprises to improve their core competitiveness. However, the existing studies focus more on enterprise green technology innovation than green innovation, and the empirical tests mostly use regional-level data rather than enterprise-level data. This paper empirically examines the impact effect and mechanism of digitalization on green innovation in manufacturing enterprises using a sample of Chinese A-share listed manufacturing enterprises from 2013–2019. It is found that: digitalization significantly promotes the improvement of green innovation level in manufacturing enterprises; digitalization promotes green innovation more prominently in labor-intensive industries and manufacturing enterprises in central China than in capital- or technology-intensive industries and enterprises in eastern China; and digitalization can influence green innovation in manufacturing enterprises through three intermediary channels: promoting enterprise value chain upgrading, empowering industrial structure optimization, and enhancing technological innovation.
Special Issue “Faith and Sustainable Development: Exploring Practice, Progress and Challenges among Faith Communities and Institutions”: Foreword by the President of Ireland
Authors: Higgins Michael D.
Published: June 2023

While the concept of sustainable development has a history of more than 50 years now, with origins dating back to the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, it would take the publication of the influential 1987 report of the World Commission on Environment and Development, Our Common Future, or the ‘Bruntland Report’ as it is commonly known (named after its chairperson, the then-prime minister of Norway) before the term’s use became more widespread [...]
Borel Transform and Scale-Invariant Fractional Derivatives United
Authors: Gluzman Simon
Published: June 2023

The method of Borel transformation for the summation of asymptotic expansions with the power-law asymptotic behavior at infinity is combined with elements of scale-invariant fractional analysis with the goal of calculating the critical amplitudes. The fractional order of specially designed scale-invariant fractional derivatives u is used as a control parameter to be defined uniquely from u-optimization. For resummation of the transformed expansions, we employed the self-similar iterated roots. We also consider a complementary optimization, called b-optimization with the number of iterations b as an alternative fractional control parameter. The method of scale-invariant Fractional Borel Summation consists of three constructive steps. The first step corresponds to u-optimization of the amplitudes with fixed parameter b. When the first step fails, the second step corresponds to b-optimization of the amplitudes with fixed parameter u. However, when the two steps fail, the third step corresponds to the simplified, Borel-light technique. The marginal amplitude should be found by means of the self-similar iterated roots constructed for the transformed series, optimized with either of the two above approaches and corrected with a diagonal Padé approximants. The examples are given when the complementary optimizations,“horses-for-courses” approach outperforms other analytical methods in calculation of critical amplitudes.
Injectable Hydrated Calcium Phosphate Bone-like Paste: Synthesis, In Vitro, and In Vivo Biocompatibility Assessment
Authors: Teterina Anastasia Yu. , Minaychev Vladislav V. , Smirnova Polina V. , Kobiakova Margarita I. , Smirnov Igor V. , Fadeev Roman S. , Egorov Alexey A. , Ashmarin Artem A. , Pyatina Kira V. , Senotov Anatoliy S. , Fadeeva Irina S. , Komlev Vladimir S.
Published: June 2023

The injectable hydrated calcium phosphate bone-like paste (hCPP) was developed with suitable rheological characteristics, enabling unhindered injection through standard 23G needles. In vitro assays showed the cytocompatibility of hCPP with mesenchymal embryonic C3H10T1/2 cell cultures. The hCPP was composed of aggregated micro-sized particles with sphere-like shapes and low crystallinity. The ability of hCPP particles to adsorb serum proteins (FBS) was investigated. The hCPP demonstrated high protein adsorption capacity, indicating its potential in various biomedical applications. The results of the in vivo assay upon subcutaneous injection in Wistar rats indicated nontoxicity and biocompatibility of experimental hCPP, as well as gradual resorption of hCPP, comparable to the period of bone regeneration. The data obtained are of great interest for the development of commercial highly effective osteoplastic materials for bone tissue regeneration and augmentation.
Electromagnetic Waves in Cosmological Spacetime
Authors: Staicova Denitsa , Stoilov Michail
Published: June 2023

We consider the propagation of electromagnetic waves in the Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker metric. The exact solutions for plane and spherical wave are written down. The corresponding redshift, amplitude change, and dispersion are discussed. We also speculate about the connection of the electromagnetic wave equation to the Proca equation and its significance for the early Universe.
An Overview of Indian Biomedical Research on the Chikungunya Virus with Particular Reference to Its Vaccine, an Unmet Medical Need
Authors: Varikkodan Muhammed Muhsin , Kunnathodi Faisal , Azmi Sarfuddin , Wu Tzong-Yuan
Published: June 2023

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an infectious agent spread by mosquitos, that has engendered endemic or epidemic outbreaks of Chikungunya fever (CHIKF) in Africa, South-East Asia, America, and a few European countries. Like most tropical infections, CHIKV is frequently misdiagnosed, underreported, and underestimated; it primarily affects areas with limited resources, like developing nations. Due to its high transmission rate and lack of a preventive vaccine or effective treatments, this virus poses a serious threat to humanity. After a 32-year hiatus, CHIKV reemerged as the most significant epidemic ever reported, in India in 2006. Since then, CHIKV-related research was begun in India, and up to now, more than 800 peer-reviewed research papers have been published by Indian researchers and medical practitioners. This review gives an overview of the outbreak history and CHIKV-related research in India, to favor novel high-quality research works intending to promote effective treatment and preventive strategies, including vaccine development, against CHIKV infection.
COVID-19 Impact on DTP Vaccination Trends in Africa: A Joinpoint Regression Analysis
Authors: Aguinaga-Ontoso Ines , Guillen-Aguinaga Sara , Guillen-Aguinaga Laura , Alas-Brun Rosa , Onambele Luc , Aguinaga-Ontoso Enrique , Guillen-Grima Francisco
Published: June 2023

Background: Deaths due to vaccine-preventable diseases are one of the leading causes of death among African children. Vaccine coverage is an essential measure to decrease infant mortality. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the healthcare system and may have disrupted vaccine coverage. Methods: DTP third doses (DTP3) Vaccine Coverage was extracted from UNICEF databases from 2012 to 2021 (the last available date). Joinpoint regression was performed to detect the point where the trend changed. The annual percentage change (APC) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) was calculated for Africa and the regions. We compared DTP3 vaccination coverage in 2019–2021 in each country using the Chi-square test. Result: During the whole period, the vaccine coverage in Africa increased with an Annual Percent change of 1.2% (IC 95% 0.9–1.5): We detected one joinpoint in 2019. In 2019–2021, there was a decrease in DTP3 coverage with an APC of −3.5 (95% −6.0; −0,9). (p < 0.001). Vaccination rates decreased in many regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, especially in Eastern and Southern Africa. There were 26 countries (Angola, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eswatini, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe) where the vaccine coverage during the two years decreased. There were 10 countries (Angola, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, The Gambia, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, and Sudan) where the joinpoint regression detected a change in the trend. Conclusions. COVID-19 has disrupted vaccine coverage, decreasing it all over Africa.
Comparative Analysis of Different ELISA Methods for the Serodiagnosis of Przhevalskiana silenus Infestation in Goats
Authors: Liaqat Sadia , Qayyum Mazhar , Celik Figen , Simsek Sami , Ahmad Faheem , Zhang Xiaocheng , Ahmed Haroon , Cao Jianping
Published: June 2023

Przhevalskiana silenus (warble fly) grubs cause myiasis in goats, in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas and different regions in Pakistan, and cause substantial losses to livestock. The palpation method for detecting warble flies generally neglects the infestation intensity; therefore, the development of a reliable and efficient diagnostic technique is extremely necessary. This study compared three indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods for detecting anti-P. silenus antibodies using the hypodermin C (HyC) purified from Hypoderma spp. Larvae collected in cattle (local isolate, Microbiology Laboratory, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi), the crude antigen from the first instar stage of P. silenus, and a commercial Bovine Hypodermosis Antibody ELISA kit (IDEXX Laboratory), for accurately estimating the seroprevalence of goat warble fly infestation (GWFI) in the Pothwar plateau, Punjab, Pakistan. The ELISA with the crude antigen of P. silenus proved very sensitive and specific, 91% and 93%, respectively. The optical density exhibited a monthly variation, and the antibody titer began increasing from June, continually increased from July to December, and gradually decreased thereafter until March. The study confirmed the endemic status of GWFI in the Pothwar region and identified that ELISA based on the crude antigen of P. silenus was a more sensitive and specific immunodiagnostic method for determining seroprevalence, and could be employed for initiating nationwide eradication campaigns.
Analysis and Implementation Monitoring Flood System Based on IoT Using Sugeno Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Akbar Alvijar , Clinton Martin , Ashari Ilham Firman
Published: June 2023

Flood disasters can have a detrimental impact such as damage to infrastructure, materials, and loss of life. One of the efforts that can be made to carry out early detection of flood disasters is to use a flood prediction system, where this system can monitor water levels, water flow rates, and predict real-time water increases. Information is sent to every citizen using the telegram chatbot. This system is built using several sensors and integrated with Telegram. The sensors used are ultrasonic and water flow sensors. The ultrasonic sensor is used to read the water level in the range of 0-50 cm and the water flow sensor is used to calculate the flow of water entering the test container with an interval of 0-10 liters / minute. Data is sent to telegram in realtime using the firebase database through NodeMCU ESP8266 and the WiFi module. The results of reading water level and water discharge data are processed using Sugeno fuzzy logic. The results obtained in this study indicate that the average error reading from the ultrasonic sensor is 2.43% or 97.58%. The water flow sensor shows an average error of 0.206 liters/minute or the percentage of tool accuracy is 87.06 %.
Task Management System Acceptance Technical Procedure Instalasi Antenna Provider pada Tower Berbasis Web ( Studi Kasus : PT. Intisel Prodaktifakom Central Java )
Authors: Pamungkas Prasetyo Adi , Christanto Febrian Wahyu
Published: June 2023

Perubahan gaya hidup masyarakat saat ini sangat membutuhkan akses informasi yang mudah dan cepat, untuk memenuhi kebutuhan yang bergantung dengan jaringan telekomunikasi. Sejalan dengan hal ini menuntut pengadaan sarana infrastruktur konstruksi pendukungnya yaitu instalasi antena sebagai media transmisi telekomunikasi lewat udara. PT. Intisel Prodaktifakom Jawa Tengah adalah salah satu perusahaan yang menangani dan bergerak dalam bidang jasa kontraktor telekomunikasi. Agar mampu menjadi perusahaan kontraktor yang sukses di bidang telekomunikasi, manajemen diperlukan untuk peningkatan efisiensi dan efektivitas pengelolaan proyek, karena banyaknya pekerjaan yang harus diselesaikan sering muncul berbagai masalah, minimnya teknisi yang idle sehingga terjadi delay pekerjaan, update pekerjaan yang tidak real-time, pemberian tugas kepada teknisi masih secara manual menggunakan Whatsapp Group, dan kesulitan dalam proses pengawasan. Untuk mencapai tujuan sebuah proyek yang memenuhi kriteria biaya, mutu dan waktu, sistem task management berbasis web menggunakan metode prototype dimaksudkan sebagai alat untuk peningkatan mutu dan pelayanan perusahaan. Berdasarkan dari pengujiaan yang telah dilakukan sistem Task Managemt ini mendapatkan hasil yang cukup baik, pada pengujian black box sistem berjalan dengan baik sesuai dengan perencanaan, dari pengujian reability didapatkan hasil rata-rata 100% per test yang dijalankan, kemudian untuk pengujian kepuasan pengguna menghasilkan rata-rata presentase yaitu 76% responden memilih sangat baik, 26% responden memilih baik. Diharapkan PT Intisel Prodaktifakom Jawa Tengah dapat lebih banyak memenangkan tander projek dan juga kepercayaan lebih kepada PT Intisel Prodaktifakom dari vendor yang menjadi langganan untuk PT Intisel Prodaktifakom Jawa Tengah.
Deteksi Aktivitas Mata, Mulut Dan Kemiringan Kepala Sebagai Fitur Untuk Deteksi Kantuk Pada Pengendara Mobil
Authors: Sugeng Sugeng , Nizar Taufiq Nuzwir
Published: June 2023

Kondisi mengantuk pada pengendara roda empat adalah salah satu faktor yang menyebabkan terjadinya kecelakaan lalulintas. Kondisi mengantuk dapat disebabkan karena kelelahan perjalanan yang dilalui oleh pengendara. Pemanfaatan kecerdasan buatan dapat digunakan untuk mendeteksi kondisi mengantuk pendendara, salah satunya dengan mengamati aktifitas atau kondisi mata, pergerakan mulut dan posisi kepala saat mengemudi. Dengan mengetahui semua kondisi tersebut maka dapat dibuat sebuah mesin yang dapat memberi peringatan jika pengendara mengalami kemungkinan kondisi mengantuk. Penelitian ini memanfaatkan sebuah kamera sebagai masukan data untuk mengenali kondisi pengendara melalui aktifitas, mata, mulut dan posisi kemiringan kepala. Sistem akan memulai dengan mendeteksi wajah pengendara, kemudian menghitung setiap aktivitas kedipan mata, jumlah atau banyaknya mulut terbuka karena menguap, serta aktivitas kepala melalui pose maupun kemiringan posisi kepala. Deteksi wajah digunakan untuk mengetahui posisi wajah lalu mendeteksi posisi mata, mulut serta kepala pengendara. Memanfaatkan kecerdasan buatan dengan metoda Blazeface yang merupakan algoritma yang digunakan untuk memetakan posisi wajah. Serta dengan menggunakan metoda EAR( Eye Aspect Ratio) untuk dapat menentukan apakah mata dan mulut dalam keadaan terbuka atau tertutup. Hasil dari penelitian ini didapatkan akurasi deteksi wajah 98% dan sistem hanya dapat mendeteksi wajah pada sudut kemiringan wajah 0-15 derajat.
Peculiarities of the pedagogical process in Natalia Yeshchenko’s piano class
Authors: Rudenko Nina
Published: June 2023

Statement of the problem. The article is dedicated to the Honored Worker of Arts of Ukraine, Professor of the Kharkiv I. P. Kotlyarevsky National University of Arts Natalia Oleksandrivna Yeshchenko (1926–2015). Brilliant pianist, teacher, artist, she left a noticeable mark in the cultural history of Kharkiv, and more than 90 her graduates work in Ukraine and in various parts of the world. Nevertheless, the analysis of materials related to her pedagogical activity, shows that the methods of organizing the educational process in her special piano class, have not been studied enough. The purpose of the research paper is to examine the pedagogical activity of Natalia Yeshchenko and to reveal the peculiarities of the organizational process in it. Research results. The main stages of pedagogical experience accumulation of the pianist, the process of her teaching, thanks to which numerous solo concerts of her students with complex programs took place, were considered. It was found that her attitude to work was helped to expand students’ horizons, and cultivate the necessary character traits: hard work, will, perseverance. So, Natalia Yeshchenko believed that the most important law of pedagogy is an individual approach to education. She widely used the method of developmental education, supported her students to solve creative tasks, followed the personal professional progress of everyone, took care of their harmonious growth as individuals. She considered it an important pedagogical task to make ready the students, professionally and psychologically, for independent activities. Conclusion. We define that learning is a two-sided process of collective activity of the student and the teacher. It can be considered as one of the means of personality formation through pedagogical communication. In such a way, the numerous solo concerts of Natalia Yeshchenko’s students are a creative workshop for students and teachers, where the organization of the pedagogical process is aimed at the education of the student’s independence and initiative, the development of his thinking and creative individuality, the motivation of learning, when the teacher, using his perfect professional skill and psychological levers, successfully leads the student to the chosen goal. Such two-sided intense work really reveals the common values and sets mutual understanding between the student and the teacher.