bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship of GHRL Gene Polymorphism with Milk Production and Components in Holstein Cows
Authors: Shnawa Majeed , Al- Khuzai Hamza M. H. , Al-Yaseri Ahmed J. A.
Published: August 2023

The current study was conducted in private station located in the middle of Iraq by using 100 samples of blood to determine the effect of GHRL gene polymorphism on milk traits in Holstein cows. Results showed two alleles with co-dominance and three genotypes was detected in the site -97, the allele frequency was 0.72 and 0.28 for G and A allele respectively. Results showed a significant effect of SNP on lactation period length (P<0.01). The cows with mutant genotype (AA) were the longest lactation period (241 day) while the cows with wild genotype were the shortest lactation period. Total milk yield affected significantly (P<0.01) by allele type, the highest quantity of milk yield was in cows with mutant genotype namely, 3366.77 Kg. High significant differences in daily milk yield were reported in cows according the alleles type, AA cows genotypes achieved 13.97 Kg /day compared with the cows with GG genotype which achieved 8.82 kg/day. Milk components such as lactose and protein were affected significantly (P<0.01) by GHRL gene SNP, the highest rate of lactose and protein were noticed in cows with wild genotype namely, 5.45 and 3.60% respectively. Milk fat differed significantly (P<0.05) in cows depending on its genotype, the highest rate was recorded in cows with wild genotype (GG) namely 3.90%.
Effects of Foliar and Soil Applications of Silicic Acid (Silicon 0.8%) on the Growth and Yield of Tomato under Greenhouse Conditions
Authors: Desher Mohsin A. , Abdulali Husam H. , Alyousuf Aqeel Adnan , Nikpay Amin , Laane Henk-Maarten
Published: August 2023

Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) is an important vegetable crop in Iraq. Experiments have been conducted to compare the effects of foliar and soil surface (drench) applications of silicic acid on tomato under greenhouse conditions. The experiment consisted of treatments with or without silicic acid (AB Yellow) treatments with different concentrations to evaluate the efficacy on growth, yield, and quality parameters of tomato. The results showed that foliar applied and soil drenching of silicic acid in different concentrations (0.5, 1 and 2 ml/L) significantly increased yield and quality attributes compared to control. Silicic acid, applied as foliar spray or as soil drench, as 2 ml/L increased growth and yield significantly.
Growth and Yield of Three Soybean Cultivars by the Nutritional Effect of Zinc and Arginine
Authors: Al-Fahdawi Basim Abid Salih , Al-Dulaimi Bashir Hamad Abdullah
Published: August 2023

To examine the impact of foliar feeding with zinc and arginine acid on some physiological and productive traits of soybean cultivars, an experiment was carried out in the fields of a crop in the Al-Khalidiya Island area of Al-Anbar Governorate, at 43° longitude and 33° latitude, in a sandy mixture soil. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design (R.C.B.D), a split-split plot, and three replicates, with zinc concentrations (50.0 and 100 mg ZnL−1) on the main plates, arginine concentrations (40.0 and 80 mg Arl−1) on the secondary plates, and the varieties (D, Shaima, and Lee) on the sub-secondary plates. Results from the experiment are summarized as follows: The highest mean for all traits studied was found with a Zinc concentration of 100 mg Zn l−1, which also outperformed a concentration of 50 mg Zn l−1 and the control treatment. Arginine 40 mg L−1 achieved the highest rate for leaf area and nitrogen percentage in leaves, while 80 mg L−1 gave the highest average for root length (28.77 cm), number of pods per plant, fertility rate per pod (95.39%) and plant seed yield (58.21 g plant−1). Leaf area and pod count were also best for the Shaima variety, whereas root length, pod fertility, and seed output were best for the Lee variety. The leaf nitrogen content of the different cultivars did not differ appreciably.
Evaluation Analysis of Thresher Mechanically Developed
Authors: Al-Dawla Ayoub Abdel Aziz Mohammed , Rajab Adel Ahmed Abdullah
Published: August 2023

This machine was developed in Al-Hamdani factory in the industrial area of Mosul city in 2022 and practical experiments were carried out to evaluate its performance. The factors were studied using two Cultivars of corn (Rayal and ZP) and rotation speed (50, 100) rpm And clearance (10-20) mm on some indicators, namely: productivity (kg.h−1), percentage of unseparated grains (%), consumed capacity (kilowatts) and operating costs (dinar.kw−1). The experiment was carried out using a Complete Random Design (CRD) and with three refiners specifically The main objectives of the research were to develop a manual threshing machine and to select the most appropriate operating factors that affect its performance. The results of the study showed the superiority of the (ZP) variety on the (Rayal) variety in recording the lowest power exhausted and the lowest costs of electrical energy. The rotational speed 100 rpm exhausted achieved the highest value for both productivity exhausted, capacity and electrical energy unseparated costs, while achieving 50 rpm has the highest value in the percentage of unseparated reaching superiority grains, as well as the clearance superiority 20 mm in achieving the highest productivity, the lowest reaching capacity for the energy consumed and the lowest costs, while clearance 10 gave the lowest percentage of the unseparated grains.
Effect of Ion Pairs on the Dispersion Parameters (SAR, MCAR, CROSS) of some Calcareous and Saline Soils in Nineveh Governorate
Authors: Khaled Majed M. , Ahmed Hazim M.
Published: August 2023

The study included selected soils from locations within Nineveh Governorate (Tal-Kaif, Al Hamdaniya, represent calcareous soils),(Rabie’a, Tal-Abta, represent saline soils) three depths were determined for soil sampling (0-20) (20-50) (50-80) cm. The results showed that there was a difference in the effect of dispersion parameters on the structural composition of soil and the degradation of soil properties, where it was observed that the values of the parameters, SAR, MCAR, CROSS were high after correcting the ion pairs values. The increase in the SAR value appeared in calcareous soils at a average of (0.031) and for saline soils at a average of (0.463) after correcting the ion pairs. The MCAR values increased in calcareous soils by (0.025) and saline soils by (0.508) after correcting the ion pairs. CROSS increased in calcareous soils by (0.027) and saline soils by (0.532) after correcting the ion pairs.
Photovoltage Energy Exploitation in Iraq: Overview of Obstacles and Solutions
Authors: Mohammed Shareef Ayed , Aljawadi Rafea Abdulsattar , Khessro Montaser Khairie
Published: August 2023

Energy is an essential component of meeting social needs and economic growth. The international energy agency (IEA) estimates that a 53% increase in global energy consumption is expected by 2030. Pollution of environment, climate change, and the growing of demand energy worldwide require serious attention. Moreover, fossil fuels will significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions from combustion and exacerbate climate change. Renewable energies (REs) such as solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and biofuels are the right solution to running out of fossil fuels, protecting the environment, and stopping climate degradation. Many countries have jumped into the field of energy production from photovoltaic panels to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and recorded success stories. This paper reviews the great efforts developed countries and the rest of the world made in investing in solar energy. Especially photovoltaic energy, and compares it with the reality of the situation concerning the neighboring countries of Iraq in general and in Iraq in particular, and shows the determinants of developing this industry and the difficulties it faces, especially in the field of providing electricity to cities and farms. Moreover, providing appropriate solutions based on the success stories achieved by other countries.
Economic Analysis for Measuring the Economic Efficiency and Affecting Factors of the Barley Farms in Iraq-Wasit Governorate Al-Suwaira District, an Applied Model for the Year 2020
Authors: Jaafer Hawraa , Ali S. H. , Shukr Ali S.
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to estimate barley farms efficiency, with its technical and allocative branches and to identify the most important factors affecting economic efficiency, as the data were collected through a questionnaire form randomly distributed to 44 barley growers in Wasit Governorate / Essaouira district, the relationship between barley production, area and quantity was estimated. The seeds, the amount of urea fertilizer and the compound fertilizer, the number of hours of automated work and manual work using the data envelope analysis method and the Deap program with internal orientation. The sample level (0.96, 0.66, 0.64) respectively. Excel, spss and AMOS program were used by which the most important factors affecting economic efficiency were determined by conducting factor analysis. Accordingly, the research recommended urging farmers to use the optimal quantities of resources, develop their administrative capabilities, and pay attention to non-price factors as well, as they contribute to encouraging farmers to increase cultivated areas and production.
Jatropha Green Petroleum Tree (Article Review)
Authors: Basheer Shahla Abdulrazzaq , Ali Sumood Hussain , Mohammed Anwer Noori
Published: August 2023

This article provides a bibliography discussing the significance of Jatropha as a biofuel crop around the world. In the family Euphorbiaceae, the genus Jatropha contains about 170 species of shrubs and trees (some of which are deciduous, such as Jatropha Curcas L.). It’s a perennial that can withstand dry conditions, grows well in soil with low fertility, and yields a lot of oil per plot. Plants produce seeds for up to 50 years and grow rapidly. Due to its many advantages, jatropha has attracted attention as a potentially useful tropical plant in the expansion of renewable energy sources. It has more real and intangible environmental advantages than any other competition, and it deserves to be recognized as such. In comparison to other biodiesel feedstocks, jatropha produces more oil for its price, and it has excellent fuel characteristics. It’s a source of energy rather than food because it comes from an oilseed that isn’t edible. If you’re looking for a cleaner alternative to diesel, consider jatropha, which may be utilized in diesel engines without sacrificing performance. Additionally, jatropha has a major impact on the quality of life in rural areas. According to some estimates, the plant might give a weight-based oil production of up to 40% per seed. This article explores the environmental and economic significance of the Jatropha tree, as well as the characteristics of its seeds in relation to oil production and the possibility of using it as an environmentally friendly biofuel, as well as its methods of propagation, requirements for its growth, and what it needs from developmental processes in cultivation.
Assessment the Air Pollution at the some Areas in Salahaddin Governorate - Iraq
Authors: Hameed-Ameen Attalah Maeedi , Alallawi Ahmed Ibrahim , Alabdraba Waleed M. Sh.
Published: August 2023

The study was conducted in Salah al-Din Governorate - northern Iraq, during the period from 1/11/2021 to 30/3/2022, with the aim of evaluating the level of pollutants in the atmospheric air for three areas: Al-Boutama (rural area), Baiji refinery (oil industry area), and the city of Tikrit (a densely populated area), the concentrations of toxic gases were measured: sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxide (NO), nitrite (NO2), hydrochloric acid (HCl), hydrogen fluoride (HF), carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide. (CO), using the Wolf Pack Modular Area Monitor. The results were as follows: Significant differences were found between the study sites for all the variables tested, and Baiji refinery recorded the highest values for each of the variables SO2, NO, NO2, HCl and HF, which amounted to 2.54, 8.28, 6.4, 10.62 ppm and 0.42 mg/ m3, respectively. November 2021 recorded the highest concentrations of HCl and CO compounds with averages of 7.6 ppm and 18.37 mg/m3, respectively, while January 2022 recorded the highest averages of NO2, HF and CO2, which amounted to 5.27 ppm and 0.4 mg/m3 and 791 ppm, respectively, the interaction between Baiji refinery site and the months of November, December and January recorded the highest concentrations of pollutants amounting to 4.4 ppm for SO2 concentration, 11.2 ppm for NO concentration, 7.9 ppm for NO2 concentration, 13.8 ppm for HCl concentration, and 0.7 mg/m3 for HF concentration, and 16.5 ppm for VOCs concentration.
The Use of Mathematical and Statistical Analysis in Selecting of Best Regression Equation for Quercus Infectoria G.Olivier
Authors: Salih Tariq K.
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study is to use mathematical and statistical analysis in testing the performance ability of standard volume models in volume prediction of Gall Oak trees. A sample of 205 non - destructive trees was purposely selected from Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan region, Iraq. Of which 157 were used for estimating the parameters of regression models and the rest (48) trees served as validation data. Using computer facilities, the available software packages, and tools including STATGRAPHIC Centurion and Excel tool, the parameters of 28 models were estimated. A multistage procedure was used for screening the generated regression equations and selecting the most appropriate one, which underwent validation with independent data. In this study, a new criterion was proposed and used for testing the accuracy of regression equations in the prediction of the dependent variable. At the end of this process, the regression equation Vt = 0.00442+0.0108D^1.917H was finally selected as the most appropriate one that fits the data.
Administrative Plan for Reforestation of the Nineveh Forest for the Period 2019-2029
Authors: Al-Bek Muzahim Saeed , Rashid Faiza Ali
Published: August 2023

Forests are a moving ecosystem, so it is in a state of continuous movement with time due to the entry of new elements and the exit of others as a result of physiological death or cutting as a result of human activities, from that we see that the forest is in a state of continuous change in the area of the crown coverage of its trees, so the trees of the Nineveh forest include many species Trees, and eucalyptus trees are the largest part, and these trees were exposed to many environmental and social symptoms that led to their decline and affected their trees to a large extent, which requires identifying these changes during the last period, through the use of a space statement of the Landsat satellite for two periods of time (2010-2018) M, to prepare maps to extract information about the disturbances that occurred in the past, which led to their decline. In this study, we used nearly a decade of data to derive an estimate of the spatial changes that occurred in the forest trees of Nineveh. We have shown the area of crown coverage of trees for the two time periods, and the area of crown coverage in 2010 AD was 116.51 hectares, while the area of crown coverage in 2018 AD was 109.27 hectares. The area of the forest and the spatial area of the species change significantly for the different types of trees in the forest.
The Response of Moringa oleifera Lam. Nodes to Multiply on MS and WPM Media Supplemented with Different Concentrations of BA and Kin
Authors: Al-Hamidi Alaa Omar Ahmed , Bashi Ammar Zaki Amin Kassab , Hadedy Sumood Hussan Ali
Published: August 2023

The study was conducted at the laboratory of Plant Cells and Tissue Culture/Department of Forestry Sciences in the College of Agriculture and Forestry/the University of Mosul, during the year 2021-2022 AD on Moringa oleifera Lam. to spread the In vitro propagation. The effect of the type of nutrient medium (MS and WPM) and the type of cytokinin 6-Benzyladenine (BA) at the concentrations (0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) mg.l−1 and Kinetin (Kin) at concentrations (0, 1, 2, 3, 4) mg.l−1 In the growth and multiplication of single nodes prepared from seedlings at 21 day. After eight weeks of cultivation, the results showed that there was a significant effect of the type of nutrient medium on the growth and multiplication of single nodes, as the MS medium was superior to the WPM medium in the number of shoots and leaves per single node. The best result was (6.4 and 4.7 shoot/node and 34.5 and 27.3 leaf/node) on the leaves, respectively, BA was also significantly superior to Kin in the number of shoots and the number of leaves per node which achieved (10.4 and 2.7 shoots/node and 52.1 and 19.5 leaves/node), respectively. On the other hand, the interaction (0.75 mg.l−1 BA with 4 mg.l−1Kin) in MS media caused the highest rate of the number of shoots and number of leaves achieved (19.6 shoots/node and 82.9 leaves/node), respectively.
Response of Albizia (Albizia lebbeek) Seedlings Growth for Nano Fertilizers Application
Authors: Al-Jibouri Afak Ibrahim Jumaa , Kahlel Abdel-Monnem Sadalaha , Naki Hisham Hassan
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was conducted in the Department of Plant Production, Technical Agricultural College, Mosul, Iraq, in the spring of 2020 to examine the effects of two different types of nano fertilizers (complex fertilizer K 27% and S 13%, Zn 11.5%, Mn 6.5%, Fe 7.5%, and citric acid 3.5%). on albizia seedlings using three application techniques (spraying, adding to the soil, and spraying plus adding to the soil). On February 15th, the seeds were sown in plastic containers, and after the second true leaf, they were transferred to plastic bags. The Nano fertilizers were applying at 2 gm. L.−1 focus four times a month starting in the first of the year. May, after the plant has developed its fourth true leaf. A factorial experiment with a randomized complete block design and three replicates was used to set up the treatments. Plant length, leaf count, Stem diameter, chlorophyll content (SPAD), fresh weight, and dry weight of vegetative growth and roots are all significantly increased after nano fertilizers are added via spraying and soil amendment. Also, when compared to K nano and the control group, all of the parameters show substantial increases after using Complex Nanofertilizer. All parameters show a significant effect from the treatments that involve interactions between nano fertilizers and applying methods.
Valuing Green Space in University Environment: Benefits and Challenges
Authors: Hashim Nur Idzhainee , Tutong Fatin Athira , Hashim Nor Hanisah Mohd , Nasir Nurul Akmaniza Mohd , Ahmad Che Bon
Published: August 2023

Green areas are an important area to positive health and well – being for university environment. However, many universities in Malaysia have gone through many physical changes due to the needs of more space’s for parking, new buildings and off – campus housing area. Many studies had done by researchers who previously only focused on the benefits to those who live in urban areas. There are two objectives for this study: i) To identify the benefits of engagements in green space among university students ii) To study the challenges of university students to engage in green space activity. The study was conducted through quantitative method by using questionnaires randomly distributed to (n=300) respondents. The purpose of this study is to ensure that university students recognize what green areas are and the benefits uses of green areas for them. Overall, this study will be exposed on the importance of green areas in life and the needs to improve campus green spaces resulting in a more appropriate campus environment for the students.
Evaluating the Residential Outdoor Environment for the Elderly in Shuiqinggou, Qingdao, China using the Seniors’ Outdoor Survey Tool
Authors: Lu J
Published: August 2023

As China’s elderly population grows, residential areas need to provide an outdoor environment for their physical and mental health in good condition. Many studies have found that better outdoor environments in residential areas can improve the health of the elderly and increase their happiness. The Seniors’ Outdoor Survey (SOS) tool was developed as an effective and reliable assessment tool to evaluate the needs and preferences of the elderly in outdoor spaces. This study used the SOS tool to evaluate Shuiqinggou Park in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China. The outdoor environment is divided into three parts for five domains of evaluation. The final average score of the whole environment is 84.35, the percentage is 86.9% compared with the total score, the Inter-rater ICC among trainers is 0.917, and the T-test value is 0.799. Through the results of the tools, it can be concluded that Shuiqinggou Park is a favorable outdoor space suitable and safe for the elderly. The study’s findings can help project managers and designers identify the essential outdoor characteristics for future construction and maintenance prioritization.
Determinant of architectural features of Istana Bandar Alaeddin Selangor
Authors: Bujang N , Misni A , Raub A B A
Published: August 2023

Architecture developed by humanity is the most sophisticated phenomenon relevant to the context of the environment, which is the context in which man and his environment interact with each other, were an essential component of architectural heritage growth. In this study, the main purpose is to look at the presence of art man-made construction of the palace, a building that played a significant role in the history of Malaysia. In this study context, a palace can be an olden history meant a residence for the ruler or head of the state, and often served as a place of administration. This palace can be seen in Malaysia for a certain period. This study will address the closely related evolution of the architectural features of the Palace in Malaysia that can be seen from the pre-colonial period, the colonial era, and before independence. The method of this study used a qualitative researcher observation. Architecture elements and features will adequately determine. Istana Bandar Alaeddin was chosen and considered a unique design element of royal palace architecture. The spatial organization of the palace is put together to make it work the way it does. The primary result shows that the conquerors of the past events made their influence touch on the development of architecture in Malaysia as a sign in the features of the Palace building together with vernacular concepts hybrid with different cultures. Thus, this finding can be a documentation of architectural features to become a reference for future generations about our previous culture and history and for authority to maintain and conserve this heritage building.
Generative Design Process for Alternative Creation of Architectural Design: Application of Willis Tower Shading Analysis Case Study
Authors: Suphavarophas Phattranis , Keonil Nuchnapang , Bunyarittikit Suphat
Published: August 2023

Generative design is a type of popular computational design providing a simple alternative design that is important instance to architectural design. This study aimed to examine generative design process to better understanding, and building an instruction set by repeat experiment methodology through case study. Willis Tower Shading Analysis was applied using variables that cause differences design options of nine sorted tubes alternate automation tower of 30-, 60- and 90-meters height. Forty-five design options were generated from generative design process, selected variables used in design options including building area, shadow area, neighbor building overshadowing and park overshadowing. It was found that generative design was a quick, modest and practical process that was easy for appropriate analysis. Additionally, input data and instruction for generating multiple output design options could be set for selecting of an option and the process could be reversed for designers required options.
Spatial Distribution of Particulate Matter (PM2.5) in Klang Valley using Inverse Distance Weighting Interpolation Model
Authors: Ismain S H A , Salleh S A , Mohammad Sham N , Wan Azmi W N F , Zulkiflee AL , Ab Rahman A Z
Published: August 2023

Particulate matter is one of the life threathening pollutants that are harmful to human health. The aim of this study is to assess PM2.5 distribution using spatial interpolation techniques of inverse distance weighted (IDW) by predicting their concentrations at distinct unmonitored locations. The IDW interpolation was developed using Arcmap for Klang Valley area covering six districts in central Peninsular Malaysia. The Department of Environment (DOE) continous air quality monitoring stations (CAQMS) were installed at 6 districts in Klang Valley throughout period of 9 months between January and September 2022 for data collection. The results from IDW showed that PM2.5 concentrations were highest in February and lowest in March. The IDW spatial mapping demonstrated that PM2.5 distributed higher in Seremban and Petaling districts throughout 9 months while Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya demonstrated contrary lower. The IDW cross-validation results showed an acceptable predictive accuracy with low RMSE values ranging from 1.790 to 5.073 and high R squared value with range from 0.0267 to 0.5081. The results showed a very good fit of the IDW model to the observed points, confirming that the results of these analyses can monitor and predict PM2.5 concentrations with high accuracy. The interpolation maps that result can help identify key regions that require air quality management mitigation strategies.
Windstorm Hazardous Area Mapping Using Multi-Criteria Evaluation Techniques of Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Zakaria N H , Salleh S A , Chan A , Ooi M C G , Isa N A , Latif Z A
Published: August 2023

The goal of this study to determine the most exposed area to windstorm event using fuzzy logic approach. Respond to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 and 13, Sustainable Cities and Communities and Climate Action, this study was conducted to establish the preparedness in high-risk region. To achieve this goal, the influencing indicator was identified based on previous study. The related indicator comprises of wind speed, temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, slope, population, road, and land use. Fuzzy membership model implemented to aggregating the indicator to standard value 0 to 1. A fuzzy model was used as a method to integrate the constructed index values, and a frequency ratio was used to determine the fuzzy membership value. Different fuzzy operators (AND, OR, SUM, PRODUCT, and GAMMA) are applied to generate windstorm hazard map. The fuzzy gamma (γ) operator, with γ equal to 0.9, was used to create wind hazard map into different zones of five relative sensitivity classes: very high, high, moderate, low, and very low. 10.65% of study area has very high sensitivity towards windstorm hazard which distributed at high area (Banjaran titiwangsa), West Coast area (Pahang and West Johor) and north area (Perlis). In addition, some part in the surrounding region of Peninsular Malaysia were also identified as windstorm hazard due to the dense of urban area such at Johor Bharu and Klang Valley area. 7.20% of the study area has very-low windstorm hazard and is mainly located in the middle part.
Development of machine learning modelling and dengue risk mapping: a concept framework
Authors: Hadi Z A , Dom N C
Published: August 2023

Dengue fever (DF) has emerged as the world most common mosquito-borne diseases. DF has more than tripled in the last five decades. The disease is primarily present in tropical and subtropical areas, putting around one-third of the world’s population at risk of infection. As a result of rising urbanization, broad global travel, a lack of sufficient mosquito control measures, and globalization, dengue viruses have spread rapidly over the world. Climate variables influence DF incidence and fatality rates, but so do sociodemographic factors, rendering certain demographic subpopulations more vulnerable to infection. However, due to the methodological difficulties associated with integrating different data sources, only a few studies addressing the causes of dengue incidence incorporate both meteorological and sociodemographic components. The application of the Geographical Information System (GIS) and Machine Learning (ML) Algorithm will be introduced in this study to act as a crucial tool in the epidemiological and spatial investigation, and the machine learning algorithm will act as a tool to analyze and make predictions based on data, without being explicitly programmed to do so. The study’s findings are supposed to aid Malaysian dengue management efforts. Although the study framework was established for DF, it can be adapted to incorporate other mosquito-borne diseases such as Malaria and Chikungunya, as well as non-mosquito-borne problems.
Physical properties of aluminum doped Zinc Oxide thin films and single wall carbon nanotubes bilayers with potential application in photovoltaics devices
Authors: Álvarez-Vázquez J. I. , Sastré-Hernández J , Ortega-Cervantez G. , Mendoza-Pérez R. , Aguilar-Hernández J. , Santoyo-Salazar J. , Del Oso J. A.
Published: August 2023

A study of transparent thin films of Zinc Oxide doped with Aluminum (AZO) processed by sputtering with potentials application as substrate for single wall carbon nanotubes processing by spray-coating is discussed in this work. AZO Thin films have been deposited by radiofrequency magnetron sputtering technique at room temperature in high vacuum ambient and using an Argon atmosphere. The AZO thin films and the processed bilayers of Zinc Oxide: Aluminum/Single wall carbon nanotubes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, stylus profilometry and four-terminal method for the electrical resistivity measurement. The feasibility of the Zinc Oxide doped with Aluminum thin films for its use as single wall Carbon Nanotubes substrate processed by a low-cost technique, with potential application in the configuration of photovoltaics devices is presented, analyzed and discussed as function of its electrical, morphological and optical properties through Haacke figure of merit quantification. A two-order reduction in resistivity values, average acceptable transmittance values (∼80%), and crystallinity expected for polycrystalline films were obtained for AZO/Single wall carbon nanotubes bilayers; although the homogeneity of the single wall carbon nanotubes distribution on AZO thin films processed by RF-Sputtering should be improved, the possible application as transparent electrode in a usual configuration of solar cells of AZO/Single wall carbon nanotubes can be performed.
Weak discrete maximum principle of isoparametric finite element methods in curvilinear polyhedra
Authors: Li Buyang , Qiu Weifeng , Xie Yupei , Yu Wenshan
Published: August 2023

The weak maximum principle of the isoparametric finite element method is proved for the Poisson equation under the Dirichlet boundary condition in a (possibly concave) curvilinear polyhedral domain with edge openings smaller than

π
\pi

, which include smooth domains and smooth deformations of convex polyhedra. The proof relies on the analysis of a dual elliptic problem with a discontinuous coefficient matrix arising from the isoparametric finite elements. Therefore, the standard

H
2

H^2

elliptic regularity which is required in the proof of the weak maximum principle in the literature does not hold for this dual problem. To overcome this difficulty, we have decomposed the solution into a smooth part and a nonsmooth part, and estimated the two parts by

H
2

H^2

and

W

1
,
p

W^{1,p}

estimates, respectively.

As an application of the weak maximum principle, we have proved a maximum-norm best approximation property of the isoparametric finite element method for the Poisson equation in a curvilinear polyhedron. The proof contains non-trivial modifications of Schatz’s argument due to the nonconformity of the iso-parametric finite elements, which requires us to construct a globally smooth flow map which maps the curvilinear polyhedron to a perturbed larger domain on which we can establish the

W

1
,
∞

W^{1,\infty }

regularity estimate of the Poisson equation uniformly with respect to the perturbation.
On the reconstruction of functions from values at subsampled quadrature points
Authors: Bartel Felix , Kämmerer Lutz , Potts Daniel , Ullrich Tino
Published: August 2023

This paper is concerned with function reconstruction from samples. The sampling points used in several approaches are (1) structured points connected with fast algorithms or (2) unstructured points coming from, e.g., an initial random draw to achieve an improved information complexity. We connect both approaches and propose a subsampling of structured points in an offline step. In particular, we start with quasi-Monte Carlo (QMC) points with inherent structure and stable

L
2

L_2

reconstruction properties. The subsampling procedure consists of a computationally inexpensive random step followed by a deterministic procedure to further reduce the number of points while keeping its information. In these points functions (belonging to a reproducing kernel Hilbert space of bounded functions) will be sampled and reconstructed from whilst achieving state of the art error decay.

Our method is dimension-independent and is applicable as soon as we know some initial quadrature points. We apply our general findings on the

d
d

-dimensional torus to subsample rank-1 lattices, where it is known that full rank-1 lattices lose half the optimal order of convergence (expressed in terms of the size of the lattice). In contrast to that, our subsampled version regains the optimal rate since many of the lattice points are not needed. Moreover, we utilize fast and memory efficient Fourier algorithms in order to compute the approximation. Numerical experiments in several dimensions support our findings.
Tensor ideals for quantum groups via minimal tilting complexes
Authors: Gruber Jonathan
Published: August 2023

We use minimal tilting complexes to construct an explicit bijection between the set of thick tensor ideals with the two-out-of-three property in the category of finite-dimensional modules over a quantum group at a root of unity and the set of thick tensor ideals in the subcategory of tilting modules. We also explain why the analogous construction for rational representations of a reductive algebraic group over a field of positive characteristic does not give rise to a bijection.
Polynomiality of the faithful dimension for nilpotent groups over finite truncated valuation rings
Authors: Bardestani Mohammad , Mallahi-Karai Keivan , Rumiantsau Dzmitry , Salmasian Hadi
Published: August 2023

Given a finite group

G

\mathrm {G}

, the faithful dimension of

G

\mathrm {G}

over

C

\mathbb {C}

, denoted by

m

f
a
i
t
h
f
u
l

(

G

)

m_\mathrm {faithful}(\mathrm {G})

, is the smallest integer

n
n

such that

G

\mathrm {G}

can be embedded in

G
L

n

(

C

)

\mathrm {GL}_n(\mathbb {C})

. Continuing the work initiated by Bardestani et al. [Compos. Math. 155 (2019), pp. 1618–1654], we address the problem of determining the faithful dimension of a finite

p
p

-group of the form

G

R

≔
exp
⁡
(

g

R

)

\mathscr {G}_R≔\exp (\mathfrak {g}_R)

associated to

g

R

≔

g

⊗

Z

R

\mathfrak {g}_R≔\mathfrak {g}\otimes _\mathbb {Z}R

in the Lazard correspondence, where

g

\mathfrak {g}

is a nilpotent

Z

\mathbb {Z}

-Lie algebra and

R
R

ranges over finite truncated valuation rings.

Our first main result is that if

R
R

is a finite field with

p
f

p^f

elements and

p
p

is sufficiently large, then
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="m Subscript normal f normal a normal i normal t normal h normal f normal u normal l Baseline left-parenthesis script upper G Subscript upper R Baseline right-parenthesis equals f g left-parenthesis p Superscript f Baseline right-parenthesis">

m

f
a
i
t
h
f
u
l

(

G

R

)
=
f
g
(

p
f

)

m_\mathrm {faithful}(\mathscr {G}_R)=fg(p^f)

where

g
(
T
)

g(T)

belongs to a finite list of polynomials

g
1

,
…
,

g
k

g_1,\ldots ,g_k

, with non-negative integer coefficients. The latter list of polynomials is uniquely determined by the Lie algebra

g

\mathfrak {g}

. Furthermore, for each

1
≤
i
≤
k

1\le i\leq k

the set of pairs

(
p
,
f
)

(p,f)

for which

g
=

g
i

g=g_i

is a finite union of Cartesian products

P

×

F

\mathscr P\times \mathscr F

, where

P

\mathscr P

is a Frobenius set of prime numbers and

F

\mathscr F

is a subset of

N

\mathbb N

that belongs to the Boolean algebra generated by arithmetic progressions. Previously, existence of such a polynomial-type formula for

m

f
a
i
t
h
f
u
l

(

G

R

)

m_\mathrm {faithful}(\mathscr {G}_R)

was only established under the assumption that either

f
=
1

f=1

or

p
p

is fixed.

Next we formulate a conjectural polynomiality property for the value of

m

f
a
i
t
h
f
u
l

(

G

R

)

m_\mathrm {faithful}(\mathscr {G}_R)

in the more general setting where

R
R

is a finite truncated valuation ring, and prove special cases of this conjecture. In particular, we show that for a vast class of Lie algebras

g

\mathfrak {g}

that are defined by partial orders,

m

f
a
i
t
h
f
u
l

(

G

R

)

m_\mathrm {faithful}(\mathscr {G}_R)

is given by a single polynomial-type formula.

Finally, we compute

m

f
a
i
t
h
f
u
l

(

G

R

)

m_\mathrm {faithful}(\mathscr {G}_R)

precisely in the case where

g

\mathfrak {g}

is the free metabelian nilpotent Lie algebra of class

c
c

on

n
n

generators and

R
R

is a finite truncated valuation ring.
FAZ assembly in bloodstream formTrypanosoma bruceirequires kinesin KIN-E
Authors: Albisetti Anna C. , Douglas Robert L. , Welch Matthew D.
Published: August 2023

Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of African sleeping sickness, uses its flagellum for movement, cell division, and signaling. The flagellum is anchored to the cell body membrane via the flagellum attachment zone (FAZ), a complex of proteins, filaments, and microtubules that spans two membranes with elements on both flagellum and cell body sides. How FAZ components are carried into place to form this complex is poorly understood. Here, we show that the trypanosome-specific kinesin KIN-E is required for building the FAZ in bloodstream-form parasites. KIN-E is localized along the flagellum with a concentration at its distal tip. Depletion of KIN-E by RNAi rapidly inhibits flagellum attachment and leads to cell death. A detailed analysis reveals that KIN-E depletion phenotypes include failure in cytokinesis completion, kinetoplast DNA missegregation, and transport vesicle accumulation. Together with previously published results in procyclic form parasites, these data suggest KIN-E plays a critical role in FAZ assembly in T. brucei.
Efficacy of psychosocial interventions to reduce alcohol use in comorbid alcohol use disorder and alcohol-related liver disease: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hemrage Sofia , Brobbin Eileen , Deluca Paolo , Drummond Colin
Published: August 2023

This systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42021234598) fills a gap in the literature by assessing the efficacy of psychosocial interventions in patients with alcohol use disorder and alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD), focusing on drinking reduction and abstinence as intervention goals. A systematic search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted across various databases. Study screening and data extraction were conducted independently by two reviewers. The data were presented through narrative synthesis. Primary outcomes were alcohol reduction and abstinence at the longest follow-up. Ten RCTs were included, evaluating interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational enhancement therapy (MET), motivational interviewing, or peer support. The total population included 1519 participants. Four studies included a combination of more than one intervention, and two trialed an integrated approach, including medical and psychosocial management. A significant reduction was observed with MET, while abstinence was observed with peer support, MET, and CBT/MET within integrated treatment. The overall certainty of the evidence was moderate. Six studies presented a low risk of bias, one had some concerns, and three were high risk. The findings highlight the potential of psychosocial interventions, with MET being repeatedly associated with improved outcomes. Integrated treatment also demonstrated a promising role in ARLD. Future research should head toward improving the robustness and quality of the evidence. It should also aim to further tailor and trial new psychosocial interventions on this specific clinical population. This will enhance the translation of the evidence into real-world settings.
Debates on the dorsomedial prefrontal/dorsal anterior cingulate cortex: insights for future research
Authors: Clairis Nicolas , Lopez-Persem Alizée
Published: August 2023

The dorsomedial prefrontal cortex/dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dmPFC/dACC) is a brain area subject to many theories and debates over its function(s). Even its precise anatomical borders are subject to much controversy. In the past decades, the dmPFC/dACC has been associated with more than 15 different cognitive processes, which sometimes appear quite unrelated (e.g. body perception, cognitive conflict). As a result, understanding what the dmPFC/dACC does has become a real challenge for many neuroscientists. Several theories of this brain area's function(s) have been developed, leading to successive and competitive publications bearing different models, which sometimes contradict each other. During the last two decades, the lively scientific exchanges around the dmPFC/dACC have promoted fruitful research in cognitive neuroscience.

In this review, we provide an overview of the anatomy of the dmPFC/dACC, summarize the state of the art of functions that have been associated with this brain area and present the main theories aiming at explaining the dmPFC/dACC function(s). We explore the commonalities and the arguments between the different theories.

Finally, we explain what can be learned from these debates for future investigations of the dmPFC/dACC and other brain regions' functions.
The potential of blood neurofilament light as a marker of neurodegeneration for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Jung Youjin , Damoiseaux Jessica S
Published: August 2023

Over the past several years, there has been a surge in blood biomarker studies examining the value of plasma or serum neurofilament light (NfL) as a biomarker of neurodegeneration for Alzheimer's disease. However, there have been limited efforts to combine existing findings to assess the utility of blood NfL as a biomarker of neurodegeneration for Alzheimer's disease. In addition, we still need better insight into the specific aspects of neurodegeneration that are reflected by the elevated plasma or serum concentration of NfL.

In this review, we survey the literature on the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between blood-based NfL levels and other, neuroimaging-based, indices of neurodegeneration in individuals on the Alzheimer's continuum. Then, based on the biomarker classification established by the FDA-NIH Biomarker Working group, we determine the utility of blood-based NfL as a marker for monitoring the disease status (i.e. monitoring biomarker) and predicting the severity of neurodegeneration in older adults with and without cognitive decline (i.e. a prognostic or a risk/susceptibility biomarker). The current findings suggest that blood NfL exhibits great promise as a monitoring biomarker because an increased NfL level in plasma or serum appears to reflect the current severity of atrophy, hypometabolism and the decline of white matter integrity, particularly in the brain regions typically affected by Alzheimer's disease. Longitudinal evidence indicates that blood NfL can be useful not only as a prognostic biomarker for predicting the progression of neurodegeneration in patients with Alzheimer's disease but also as a susceptibility/risk biomarker predicting the likelihood of abnormal alterations in brain structure and function in cognitively unimpaired individuals with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (e.g. those with a higher amyloid-β).

There are still limitations to current research, as discussed in this review. Nevertheless, the extant literature strongly suggests that blood NfL can serve as a valuable prognostic and susceptibility biomarker for Alzheimer's disease-related neurodegeneration in clinical settings, as well as in research settings.
The role of brain white matter in depression resilience and response to sleep interventions
Authors: Bresser Tom , Leerssen Jeanne , Hölsken Stefanie , Groote Inge , Foster-Dingley Jessica C , van den Heuvel Martijn P , Van Someren Eus J W
Published: August 2023

Insomnia poses a high risk for depression. Brain mechanisms of sleep and mood improvement following cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia remain elusive. This longitudinal study evaluated whether (i) individual differences in baseline brain white matter microstructure predict improvements and (ii) intervention affects brain white matter microstructure. People meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 criteria for Insomnia Disorder (n = 117) participated in a randomized controlled trial comparing 6 weeks of no treatment with therapist-guided digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, circadian rhythm support or their combination (cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia + circadian rhythm support). Insomnia Severity Index and Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology-Self Report were assessed at baseline and followed up at Weeks 7, 26, 39 and 52. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images were acquired at baseline and Week 7. Skeletonized white matter tracts, fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity were quantified both tract-wise and voxel-wise using tract-based spatial statistics. Analyses used linear and mixed effect models while correcting for multiple testing using false discovery rate and Bonferroni for correlated endpoint measures. Our results show the following: (i) tract-wise lower fractional anisotropy in the left retrolenticular part of the internal capsule at baseline predicted both worse progression of depressive symptoms in untreated participants and more improvement in treated participants (fractional anisotropy × any intervention, PFDR = 0.053, Pcorr = 0.045). (ii) Only the cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia + circadian rhythm support intervention induced a trend-level mean diffusivity decrease in the right superior corona radiata (PFDR = 0.128, Pcorr = 0.108), and individuals with a stronger mean diffusivity decrease showed a stronger alleviation of insomnia (R = 0.20, P = 0.035).

In summary, individual differences in risk and treatment-supported resilience of depression involve white matter microstructure. Future studies could target the role of the left retrolenticular part of the internal capsule and right superior corona radiata and the brain areas they connect.