bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Search of a Safe Place in Gaza for Children Stop Violence Against Children
Authors: Kadivar Maliheh
Published: November 2023

The Article Abstract is not available.
Efficacy of Individual Metacognitive Training in Patients with Schizophrenia: A Case Study
Authors: Bidoni Zahra Bahram , Sharifi Vandad , Masoomi Maryam
Published: November 2023

Background: Several cognitive biases may be involved in the pathogenesis and continuation of symptoms in schizophrenia. Metacognitive Training (MCT) is a treatment program that targets cognitive bias in schizophrenia. The current work aimed to evaluate the influence of MCT on schizophrenia using a single-subject design.
Methods: Five patients with schizophrenia received metacognitive training. The treatments were done for at least four weeks, two sessions per week (number of sessions ranged from 8 to 18 sessions). The MCT consists of two sets of eight modules that target common cognitive biases and problem-solving difficulties in schizophrenia. Baseline assessment was performed using the Birchwood Insight Scale (BIS), the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Psychotic Symptom Rating Scales (PSYRATS), the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), WHOQOL-BREF and the Peters et al, Delusions Inventory (PDI). The post intervention assessments included the afore-mentioned measures as well as treatment satisfaction. The follow-up assessments were conducted three and six months later. Data analysis was administered employing visual analysis diagrams, percentage of recovery and the Reliable Change Index (RCI).
Results: MCT was associated with a reduction in positive and negative symptoms (up to 18.7, 100 and 100% on the PANSS, PSYRATS and PDI, respectively) in individuals with schizophrenia, and its effects diminish over time. Insight showed significant improvement, but it was mainly the insight into symptoms. In patients with low baseline score of Quality of Life (QOL), an improvement was reported. The GAF did not change significantly.
Conclusion: MCT can be suggested as an adjunct therapy to decrease the symptoms of schizophrenia and improve the patients’ insight. Patients with more symptoms and lower levels of insight, performance and QOL seem to respond better to MCT. Randomized clinical trials are required.
The Balkan Peninsula in 1912-1913 and the Aggravation of the Situation on the Eve of the First World War
Authors: Kudryavtseva Anastasia A.
Published: November 2023

The key issues of increasing international tension on the Balkan Peninsula before the First World War are considered. The subject of the study is the Balkan Peninsula, located at the crossroads of civilizations, which has been the sphere of geopolitical interests of various coalitions for thousands of years. The Balkan Wars of 1912-1913 are presented as a pivotal moment in the history of the peninsula in the 20th century. First of all, the process of national liberation of the territories of the Balkans from Ottoman rule, as well as the process of military actions aimed at gaining independence, is considered. The article analyzes the importance played by the countries of the Balkan peninsula during the Balkan Wars of 1912-1913, and also shows the actions of these countries to form the moods they need to achieve the greatest territorial gains. At the same time, the role of the great powers, primarily Russia, in the process of the Balkan conflicts is analyzed. The chronicle of the foreign policy events of the early 20th century related to Russia's participation in the solution of the Balkan issue is researched. On the basis of publications of that time, the existing image of Bulgaria and Serbia is reconstructed, an attempt is made to restore the real picture of the life of these states on the eve of the First World War and its features, to understand the peculiarity of Westernization “in the Balkan way”. The complex of the two Balkan wars of 1912-1913 is considered primarily as a basis for the development of the future conflictogenicity of the region, which led to the First World War.
À sombra do pecado: a representação do adultério feminino em E a luz brilhará nas trevas, de Ezilda Milanez Barreto
Authors: Neto Segundo Raimundo Mélo , Silva Marcelo Medeiros da
Published: December 2023

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar o adultério feminino em E a luz brilhará nas trevas (1940), da escritora paraibana Ezilda Milanez Barreto, levando-se em conta o conceito tradicional de casamento e o modo como o patriarcado brasileiro concebe as relações entre homens e mulheres no interior da família. Para fundamentar nossos posicionamentos sobre o adultério, ao longo das análises, apoiamo-nos, especialmente, em Foucault (1985) e Cipriano (2002). Esperamos contribuir para os estudos socioculturais na literatura paraibana de autoria feminina e possibilitar a reflexão acerca de algumas implicações ideológicas da representação do adultério feminino dentro do sistema patriarcal paraibano.
Unraveling Bidirectional Converter Capabilities: a Didactic Platform for Proving Dual-Direction Operation Based on Current Injection
Authors: Nimitti Fabiano Gonzales , Andrade António Manuel
Published: December 2023

In recent years, due to the exponential increase in the use of electric vehicles and microgrids, many studies have been conducted on bidirectional converters. However, laboratories are not always able to validate the bidirectionality results due to cost and complexity. Then, in this paper a new didactic platform to prove the bidirectional power flux in bidirectional power converters is presented. This platform works alongside with the control system to ensure a current injection and guarantee the power flux reversion in bidirectional converters. Besides that, also are presented the principle of operation, control system, mathematical modeling and instrumentation system. Finally, to validate the theoretical analysis the simulation and experimental results are presented proving the bidirectionality of two power converters working in 500 W.
Study on the Choice of the Optional Subject "Chess Education" in the School Year 2021-2022
Authors: Mărăcine Elena Mădălina , Mihăilescu Niculina Liliana
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The purpose of the study was to identify the share of educational units in Romania, urban and rural, in which the optional subject "Chess Education" was implemented in the 2021-2022 school year, with the involvement of their management, taking into account the provisions of the Order 3249/31.03.2014. The research was carried out in the 2022-2023 school year and was carried out in collaboration with school inspectors for the discipline of physical education and sport in 40 counties of the country. In carrying it out, I used the questionnaire survey to collect information and the statistical-mathematical calculations for quantitative analysis.
The research’s results show that only 31 educational institutions in Romania implemented this optional discipline, although chess has major impact on students’ personal development. Of these, 23 educational units (74.2%) are located in rural areas and only 8 educational units (25.8%) are in urban areas. It was observed that in only 18 counties (42.86% of the number of counties) there were pre-university education institutions where classes studied this optional discipline. It was found that 28 classes of middle school, 21 classes of primary and 4 classes of high school studied this optional subject.
We believe that the small number of educational units in which the optional discipline "Education through chess" was implemented is determined by the lack of skills of specialists in physical education and sports regarding the teaching of chess, the discipline Theory and practice of chess being introduced in the curriculum of university education from 2019.
Combining mathematical and statistical algorithms for objectivity in the use of ogive for determining rainfall onset, peak, and retreat dates over Nigeria
Authors: Odekunle Theophilus Odeyemi , Adeyefa Adewale Oluwagbenga , Adesina Francis Adeyinka , Aderogba Adebayo Abiodun
Published: November 2023

The study combined the second-order polynomial and some elements of algebra and trigonometry with the ogive to objectively (mathematically) locate the rainfall onset, peak, and retreat on the ogive, which was visually done. The data used for the investigation are the daily rainfalls of 16 synoptic stations (Ikeja, Calabar, Port-Harcourt, Benin, Ondo, Enugu, Ilorin, Lokoja, Jos, Kaduna, Yola, Kano, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Potiskum, and Nguru) across all the ecological zones of Nigeria. The datasets spanning 50 years (1971–2020) were collected from the Archives of the Nigerian Meteorological Services, Abuja, Nigeria. The ogives were derived from the frequency of rainy days. The peak periods were best detected from the pentad graphs of the rainy-day frequency. The results showed that rainy-day frequency is better than rainfall amount in determining the various rainfall parameters over Nigeria. The second-order polynomial modeled the two curvatures of the rainfall perfectly. The rainy-day frequency in the southern part of the country exhibited double rainfall maxima, while those in the northern part showed a single rainfall maximum. The double rainfall maxima are not peculiar to the southwestern region of Nigeria, as previously widely asserted; they cut across the whole southern region, although the number of days and the depth of the trough between the peaks dimmish from the largest values in the extreme southwest to the least in the extreme southeast. The first rainfall peaks were attained in southern Nigeria in July, except at Ikeja, which was in June. The second rainfall peak was reached in September in all the southern stations. The single peaks were attained in all the extreme northern stations in August and in the other stations south of them in early September. The rainfall onset begins at Ikeja in the extreme southwestern corner of Nigeria around March ending. It spreads eastwards and northwards to cover the entire country by mid-June, reaching Nguru in the northeastern corner. It is generally earlier on the western flank than the eastern flank. Rainfall begins to retreat from the northernmost stations by the third week in September to reach the extreme southern stations between October and early November.
Currículo, políticas de ações afirmativas e pedagogia antirracista
Authors: Oliveira Ozerina Victor de , Oliveira Andresa Fernanda Almeida de
Published: November 2023

Decorridas as primeiras décadas de aprovação das Políticas de Ações Afirmativas (PAA) nas Instituições de Ensino Superior (IES), estudantes pretos(as) e pardos(as) são maioria, mesmo que sub-representados(as), indicando efeito positivo desta política. Para ir além deste ganho quantitativo é importante olhar para os atravessamentos das desigualdades de gênero na questão racial, uma vez que as mulheres negras são profundamente afetadas pela desigualdade racial. Na oportunidade, problematiza-se a presença de estudantes negras cotistas no Ensino Superior, entendendo as PAA como política cultural. Problematização feita em pesquisa de mestrado em andamento, a partir da qual se apresentam resultados parciais, destacando-se o estágio docente como prática de significação e dando-se visibilidade a uma pedagogia antirracista. O propósito é significar a experiência de uma das autoras, mestranda em educação, cotista e mulher negra em estágio docente no ensino superior. A análise orienta-se pela compreensão da PAA como política cultural e do currículo como prática de significação. A delimitação para a produção dos dados em uma perspectiva metodológica qualitativa é feita em um curso de Pedagogia, licenciatura, em universidade pública. Observam-se disputas por significação do que é ser mulher negra e cotista no ensino superior, destacando-se o empoderamento destas estudantes. Observa-se, ainda, que a experiência vivenciada pela mestranda junto a estudantes negras cotistas faz reverberar insurgências na vida destas mulheres.
Outras educações
Authors: Pereira Luciano da Silva , Oliveira Célia Regina Cristo de , Mendes Larissa Melo
Published: November 2023

O presente trabalho envolve olhares atravessados de três investigadores que compõem o mesmo grupo de pesquisa, que dialogam sobre as marcas causadas pela modernidade/colonialidade na trajetória de mulheres negras, apontando semelhanças e diferenças no modo ser e de se constituir professoras, a partir de contextos e realidades complexas em periferias urbanas e rurais do Rio de Janeiro e Mato Grosso.  Consideramos urgente o debate sobre outras epistemologias, decolonialidade, luta antirracista e formação docente nas escavações expedicionárias que realizamos. As metodologias que envolvem a narrativa das histórias de vida, as escrevivências e a autodefinição como “forasteiras de dentro” são levadas a cabo quando o que está em jogo envolve mudanças estruturais no sistema de ensino e da própria sociedade.
Gênero e raça no ensino de Biologia
Authors: Oliveira Jucenilde Thalissa de , Martins Ana Patrícia Sá Martins , Matos Manoela Pessoa
Published: November 2023

Este estudo se situa no campo das pesquisas educacionais que problematizam temas sociais no espaço pedagógico escolar. Neste caso, como recorte de uma investigação desenvolvida durante o mestrado em Educação, problematizamos as temáticas gênero e raça no ensino de Biologia, buscando compreendê-las a partir de uma perspectiva contextual, histórica e socioculturalmente situada, sob o prisma filosófico pós-crítico, questionando as explicações universalizantes e naturalizantes envolvidas na abordagem dos temas. Nesse sentido, empreendemos uma pesquisa-ação, no desenvolvimento de práticas didáticas com alunos/as do 3º ano do Ensino Médio, numa escola localizada na zona periférica da cidade de São Luís - MA. Desse modo, sob o aporte analítico dos estudos bakhtinianos, visamos analisar as percepções dos/as alunos/as acerca dos temas gênero e raça no ensino de Biologia, a partir de suas escritas reflexivas, materializadas e compartilhadas através das plataformas digitais Canva e Padlet. Os resultados evidenciam a necessidade de se oportunizar reflexões, (des)construções e (re)significações com um viés antirracista e antissexista no ensino de Biologia, pontuando as demandas sociais nas Ciências Naturais.
El Teatro Bunraku:
Authors: Brazhnikova Tsybizova Violetta
Published: November 2023

El objeto del presente trabajo es uno de los tres grandes géneros tradicionales del teatro japonés, el teatro de marionetas Bunraku. A lo largo de esta investigación se presenta cómo y dónde surgió el teatro de marionetas en Japón y se observan las razones por las cuáles cambió su estructura de manera sustancial en el siglo XVIII. También se analizan las circunstancias que rodean el cambio del nombre de este género teatral en el siglo XIX. Debido a que entre los estudiosos este género teatral se considera una de las fuentes de las cuales ha bebido el teatro Kabuki, entre otras, en este artículo se observa el desarrollo paralelo del teatro de marionetas Bunraku y el teatro de los intérpretes humanos Kabuki durante los siglos XVII y XVIII. Por ello, además, se mencionan ambos géneros teatrales y se examinan sus similitudes y las diferencias más destacadas entre ambos. Asimismo, se presenta de manera concisa la figura de Chikamatsu Monzaemon, uno de los dramaturgos más importantes de la escena nipona, y se profundiza sobre su influencia en el establecimiento de los valores estéticos que siguen rigiendo el teatro de marionetas todavía en el siglo XXI. También se consideran algunas de las manifestaciones similares en el ámbito de las artes escénicas en España y se indaga en la influencia que ha ejercido el teatro Bunraku en las mismas.
The Acoustics of the Abstract in the Symbolic Universe of Odissi Dance
Authors: Albergaria Andrea Itacarambi
Published: November 2023

Este trabajo propone reflexiones sobre el proceso de creación de videoescenas, un concepto de Danza, Teatro y Tecnología, desarrollado por Andraus (2021). De la experiencia observacional, tanto de caminar por la ciudad de Aurangabad, India, como de la participación en el grupo de bailarines Odissi durante la pasantía doctoral en Artes Escénicas, en la Universidad MGM, a lo largo del primer semestre de 2023, surge la cartografía acústica. Describo así este proceso compositivo, tomando como referencia los conceptos de paisaje sonoro de Schafer (1991; 1997), investigación sonora de Feld (2018), acústica de Seeger (2015), camino estético de Careri (2017), así como de la técnica y teoría de la danza y musicalidad Odissi, lenguaje que constituye mi principal técnica de interpretación y entrenamiento. El simbolismo abstracto presente en la cartografía mencionada trajo nuevas posibilidades compositivas y aperturas creativas para que capas de sonido y movimiento corporal, superpuestas en el montaje, crearan diálogos de danza en espacios de sonido y silencio en el entorno tecnológico de la videoescena.
The Tolerance of Saline Conditions of Rice Seedlings in the Treatment of Oligochitosan
Authors: Thanh N.T.P. , Tien L.T.T.
Published: November 2023

Background: Rice is one of the most important crops and is sensitive to salinity stress. Salt stress is a major abiotic stress that causes inhibition in plant growth or even plant death. Looking for a solution to enhance the salt tolerance of rice is very necessary. Methods: Rice sprouts with 2-3 mm of radicles were treated in four treatments: distilled water, 0.6% NaCl, oligochitosan 5994 Da (75 ppm) and 0.6% NaCl supplemented with 75 ppm of oligochitosan 5994 Da. The physiological and biochemical parameters and gene expression of rice seedlings were evaluated after seven days of treatment. Result: In the treatment of 0.6% NaCl, the development of rice seedlings was inhibited, but the salt-resistant systems were activated. The addition of oligochitosan maintained the growth of rice seedlings through the improvement of morphology, physiological parameters and the concentration of total sugar, proline and total protein. Oligochitosan raised the expression of genes related to proline biosynthesis (P5CS and P5CR) or genes related to antioxidant enzymes in salinity stress (cAPX, tAPX and sAPX).
On Michel Foucault: Power/Knowledge, Discourse, and Subjectivity
Authors: Poorghorban Younes
Published: December 2023

The indubitable significance of Michel Foucault within the realm of modern humanities cannot be overstated. His far-reaching influence across various fields of study has proven to be of paramount importance. The present study is intended to bring into focus the most consequential critical concepts of Michel Foucault. While certain scholars have previously endeavoured to depict and reconceptualise Foucault's principal notions, many of them have tended to complicate the matter by problematising his understanding of these concepts. The most significant concepts include Discourse, Power, Knowledge, and Subjectivity. The nature and function of discourses in shaping knowledge and the relationship between knowledge and power have been subject to investigation. Additionally, this study sheds light on the manner in which subjects are shaped in the duality of power and resistance. The primary objective of this study is to offer a lucid definition of these terms and their interrelatedness.
Corpo, sexualidade e sexo para sannyasins do Osho
Authors: Furtado Kevin Kossar
Published: December 2023

O presente trabalho se constitui de parte dos resultados de pesquisa que investiga como sannyasins brasileiros do guru indiano Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, o Osho, se apropriam das referências do seu legado que orientam a religiosidade. Através de pesquisa documental na OSHO Online Library e pesquisa bibliográfica, o artigo trata da figura de Rajneesh/Osho e sua definição de neossannyasin. Em seguida, na apreensão de entrevistas em profundidade, discute a compreensão dos sannyasins sobre o corpo; o modo como relacionam materialismo e espiritualismo; como compreendem a sexualidade, o sexo e a designação de Osho como “guru do sexo”; e os significados espirituais que identificam na sexualidade e no sexo. As demandas, motivações e usos que os sannyasins fazem da religiosidade promovida por Osho expressam as tendências individualizantes, reflexivistas e a priorização da experiência às ideias característica de grupos afeitos ao movimento nova era.
The greenhouse gas emissions reduction co-benefit of end-of-life electric vehicle battery treatment strategies
Authors: Dou Hao , Hao Han
Published: November 2023

Vehicle electrification stands as a pivotal catalyst for effecting a low-carbon transition within the transportation sector. End-of-life (EoL) battery treatment, which is mainly aimed at facilitating material recycling, provides considerable co-benefit in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study assesses the life-cycle GHG emissions from battery production, and examines the impact of three EoL battery treatment strategies: second use, regeneration, and recycling. Prospective scenarios of GHG emissions from electric vehicle battery production in China are further provided. The results show that under the Business as Usual (BAU) scenario, GHG emissions peak at 36 million tons in 2030, with 18 million tons for LFP and 18 million tons for NCM, and decrease to 11 million tons in 2060, with 4 million tons for LFP and 7 million tons for NCM. GHG emissions have more reduction potential as the collection rate increases and the proportion of different strategies applied changes. In a scenario with improved collection rates, GHG emissions would be reduced by 21% in 2060 compared to BAU. In a prioritized regeneration scenario, GHG emissions can be reduced by 32% in 2060, with 64% of lithium resources being supplied by regenerated batteries. In a prioritized second use scenario, GHG emissions can be reduced by 104% in 2060, which involves replacing 27 kilotons of lithium input and mitigating 13 million tons of GHG emissions related to the energy storage system. In light of these findings, we advocate for policy recommendations aimed at fostering the advancement of EoL battery treatment technologies and expediting the transformation of battery manufacturing processes towards carbon neutrality.
Attention Mechanism and Detection Box Information Based Real-time Multi-Object Vehicle Detection
Authors: Wu Hao , Wu Wei , Sun Xiaoyan , Zhong Jin , Cao Fengyun
Published: November 2023

Ensuring both the accuracy of vehicle target detection and meeting real-time requirements is crucial in traffic videos. The YOLOv5s target detection framework, known for its accuracy and efficiency, has attracted attention in academic circles. However, there are still some features that can be optimized. First of all, the detection subnet of the YOLOv5s framework cannot smoothly convert complex feature maps into relatively sparse target prediction boxes. To solve this, we integrate a self-attention-based gating mechanism into the detection subnet, forming the YOLOv5s-SAG network. Secondly, the loss function of CIoU used by YOLOv5s pays insufficient attention to the overlapping area of the detection frame, which can be used as metric for measuring target detection effectiveness. We add the loss term of area ratio to CIoU to further improve the modeling ability. Finally, the current multi-class Non-Maximum Suppression algorithm can cause high overlap of multi-class detection frames. To improve it, we propose a multi-class CS-NMS algorithm based on category suppression. Experimental results show an approximately 8% improvement in the mAP50 index on the UA-DETRAC dataset compared with YOLOv5s. The proposed algorithm also achieves better detection results compared to mainstream target detection algorithms and meets the real-time requirements of traffic video analysis.
Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia conorii Infections in Shelter Dogs: Seropositivity and Implications for Public Health
Authors: Afonso Paulo , Lopes Ana Patrícia , Quintas Hélder , Cardoso Luís , Coelho Ana Cláudia
Published: November 2023

A cross-sectional study was conducted to gain insight into the epidemiology of canine ehrlichiosis and rickettsiosis in northern Portugal. Specific IgG antibodies to Ehrlichia canis were analysed using a commercial indirect ELISA test, and antibodies to Rickettsia conorii using a commercial IFAT. A total of 113 dogs from two different shelters were sampled, and seroprevalence values of 0.9% (95% confidence [CI]: 0.2–4.8%) for E. canis and 9.7 (95% CI: 5.5–16.6%) for R. conorii were found. Univariable models investigated risk factors for seropositivity. The odds ratios (OR) of R. conorii seropositivity were higher for female dogs (OR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.58–3.39) and for dogs belonging to Shelter 2 (OR = 3.0; 95% CI: 2.28–3.95). Seropositive dogs for co-infection (E. canis + R. conorii) were more frequently observed in females (OR = 2.4; CI 95%: 1.66–3.47) and in Shelter 2 (OR = 2.72; 95% CI: 1.97–3.76). These findings show that shelter dogs in northern Portugal are exposed to E. canis and R. conorii, which can affect both canines and humans. It is imperative to adopt a One Health approach to educate the public about the hazards of canine zoonoses and develop legislation and procedures to control their spread and preserve public health.
Effect of Fertilization with Increasing Doses of Ammonium Nitrate on Growth, Yield, and Concentration of N, P, and K in Leaves of Olive Trees (Olea Europea L.) c.v. “Kalinioti”
Authors: Pappas Christos , Kavvadias Victor
Published: November 2023

Nitrogen is the most commonly managed mineral nutrient in olive groves because it is essential for plant growth. The precise management of N fertilization in olive cultivation is still not fully clarified, but it is now essential for providing sustainable production. A nitrogen fertilizer ex-periment with olive trees (cv. Kalinioti) was carried out over a six-year period. Seven levels of nitrogen fertilizer given as ammonium nitrate (control, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 kg/tree) were annually applied in order to determine the effect of nitrogen on vegetative growth, fruit set, fruit weight, yield, maturation index and leaf N,P, and K concentrations. The results indicate that, under these conditions, application of up to 4 kg NH4NO3/tree significantly increased yield to 62.5 kg/tree compared to the control. The positive effect was attributed to the initial and final fruit set increases (7.63 and 3.73%, respectively). However, the weight of 100 olives (337 g) at the same fertilizer rate was considerably lower compared to the control. Higher nitrogen rates decreased yield while increasing overall shoot growth. Nitrogen fertilization did not significantly influence the oil content of olive fruit. Fruit weight, maturation index and concentration of oil reached maximum levels in the beginning of December, indicating a suitable start to olive harvesting with reduced yield losses due to unfavorable weather conditions. With increasing fertilizer levels from 0 to 6 kg NH4NO3,/tree concentration of N in olive leaves also increased from 1.23% to 2.38%. Maximum yield was achieved at a level of 6 kg NH4NO3/tree, which corresponded to 2.01% N in leaves. The results suggest that application of 3 kg NH4NO3/tree can be recommended for table olive pro-duction due to the fact that fruit weight was not decreased, while fertilization with 4 kg NH4NO3/tree was suitable for oil olives.
AI-based Nano-scale Material Property Prediction For Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Lal Mohit Anil , Singh Akashdeep , Mzik Ryan , Lanjan Amirmasoud , Srinivasan Seshasai
Published: November 2023

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations present a sophisticated nano-scale computational approach that can play a critical role in material design for next generation batteries. One critical piece of information needed for MD simulations is the non-bonded potential parameters, which can be obtained through quantum mechanics (QM) calculations or experimental methods. However, experimental data is not available for exploratory and novel materials to derive the potential parameters. Also, the QM approach needs significant computational power and is too time consuming for large systems. On the other hand, current Artificial Intelligence techniques are faster, but they cannot be generalized across molecules and properties. As a result, there is a significant barrier to discovering and exploring new materials. Overcoming this barrier, in this work, we propose a Machine Learning (ML) based technique that can learn inter-atomic potential parameters for various particle-particle interactions employing QM calculations. This ML model can be used as an alternative for QM calculations for predicting non-bonded interactions in a computationally efficient manner. Using these parameters as input to MD simulations, we can predict a diverse range of properties, enabling researchers to design new and novel materials suitable for various applications in the absence of experimental data. We employ our ML-based technique to learn the Buckingham potential, a non-bonded interatomic potential. Subsequently, we utilize these predicted values to compute the densities of four distinct molecules, achieving an accuracy exceeding 93%. This serves as a strong demonstration of the efficacy of our proposed approach.
Review NPF and NRT2 from Pisum sativum Potentially Involved in Nodule Functioning: Lessons from Medicago truncatula and Lotus japonicus
Authors: Morère-Le Paven Marie-Christine , Clochard Thibault , Limami Anis M
Published: November 2023

In addition to absorbing nitrogen from the soil, legumes have the ability to use atmospheric N2 through symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Therefore, legumes have developed mechanisms regulating nodulation in response to the amount of nitrate in the soil; in the presence of high nitrate concentrations, nodulation is inhibited while low nitrate concentrations stimulate nodulation and nitrogen fixation. This allows the legumes to switch from soil nitrogen acquisition to symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Recently, a particular interest has been given to the nitrate transporters, such as NPF or NRT2, having a role in the functioning of nodules. Nitrate transporters of the two model plants, Lotus japonicus and Medicago truncatula, shown to have a positive and/or a negative role in nodule functioning, depending on nitrate concentration, are presented in this review. Also, by exploiting available genomic and transcriptomic data in the literature we have identified the complete PsNPF family in Pisum sativum (69 sequences previously described and 21 new that we have annotated) and putative nitrate transporters candidate for playing a role in nodule functioning in P. sativum.
Recent Advances in the Numerical Solution of the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Barletti Luigi , Brugnano Luigi , Gurioli Gianmarco , Iavernaro Felice
Published: November 2023

In this review we collect some recent achievements in the accurate and efficient solution of the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation (NLSE), with the preservation of its Hamiltonian structure. This is achieved by using the energy-conserving Runge-Kutta methods named Hamiltonian Boundary Value Methods (HBVMs) after a proper space semi-discretization. The main facts about HBVMs, along with their application for solving the given problem, are here recalled and explained in detail. In particular, their use as spectral methods in time, which allows efficiently solving the problems with spectral space-time accuracy.
Status of the Italian Freshwater Gastrotricha Biodiversity, With the Creation of an Interactive GIS-Based Web Map
Authors: Saponi Francesco , Todaro M. Antonio
Published: November 2023

Gastrotricha are microscopic benthic animals found in almost all water bodies. To date, about 870 species distributed in 71 genera, 18 families, and two orders are known. Known freshwater species are 359, several of which found also in Italy; however, a compendium of the studies carried out so far and a georeferenced distribution of the species still needs to be provided. This project aims to summarize information about Italian gastrotrichs' diversity and geographic distribution. Diversity data, acquired over 239 years, were reviewed and corrected based on taxonomic and nomenclatural updates and, in addition to distribution information, were organized into a data matrix useful for statistical analysis and to be feed to a Geographic Information System software to easily understand the overall figures. Results indicate Italy as one best-known country regarding freshwater gastrotrich, with 88 species in 16 genera and 3 families from 59 investigated localities; the Nation counts 16 type localities and 19 endemic species. Despite its censed biodiversity, many Italian regions remain still poorly or not investigated where future research should focus. Implementing a web mapping plugin enabled the creation of interactive maps for an easy and modern sharing of the work done and information acquired.
Flood and CO2 Mitigation: Analysis of Climate-Change Response of Greening Vacant Houses in Old Downtown Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Kamata Yoko , Yoon Seonghwan , Lee Taecheol , Kang Jung Eun
Published: November 2023

This study aims to evaluate the climate-change response of greening persistently vacant houses and barren sites in deteriorated high-density residential areas in old downtown metropolitan areas. The current status of building demolition sites in Ami-dong and Chojang-dong, Busan Metropolitan City, was examined. In this area, of the 340 vacant houses from 2017, 246 (72.35%) remained persistently vacant till 2020. In 2020, 213 barren sites were neglected after building demolition. Amongst these sites, 177 (83.10%) were paved with concrete. Persistently vacant houses and barren sites were afforested, and the climate-change response was quantified in terms of flood reduction and CO2 mitigation in four scenarios (current, concrete, ground cover plants, and trees). Runoff analysis was performed using the Korea low-impact development model (K-LIDM) to assess flood mitigation. The tree scenario showed average runoff mitigations of 1.71%, 2.38%, and 3.06% in the long-term, 30-year, and 2-year rainfall scenarios, respectively. Additionally, 3058 deciduous broadleaf trees may be planted in the study area to promote CO2 mitigation. Thus, an additional annual carbon fixation of 62,123.78 kg CO2 may be expected. The greening of vacant houses and demolished sites was effective in all aspects of the climate-change response, and tree-based greening exhibited the most significant effect.
Preventive Effect of Ecklonia cava Extract on Dss-Induced Colitis by Elevating Intestinal Barrier Function and Improving Pathogenic Inflammation
Authors: Kim Young-Mi , Kim Hye-Youn , Jang Ji Tae , Hong Suntaek
Published: November 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, is a complex gastrointestinal disorder with a multifactorial etiology, including environmental triggers, autoimmune mechanisms, and genetic predisposition. Despite advancements in therapeutic strategies for IBD, its associated mortality rate continues to rise, which is often attributed to unforeseen side effects of conventional treatments. In this context, we explored the potential of Ecklonia cava extract (ECE) derived from an edible marine alga known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in mitigating IBD. This study investigated the effectiveness of ECE as a preventive agent in a murine model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Our findings revealed that pretreatment with ECE significantly ameliorated colitis severity as evidenced by increased colon length, reduced spleen weight, and histological improvements demonstrated by immunohistochemical analysis. Furthermore, ECE significantly attenuated the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines and mediators and the infiltration of immune cells known to be prominent features of colitis in mice. Notably, ECE restored dysbiosis of intestinal microflora and aided in the recovery of damaged intestinal mucosa. Mechanistically, ECE exhibited protective effects against pathogenic colitis by inhibiting the NLRP3/NF-κB pathway known to be pivotal regulators in the inflammatory signaling cascade. These compelling results suggest that ECE holds promise as a potential candidate for IBD prevention. It might be developed into a functional food for promoting gastrointestinal health. This research sheds light on the preventive potential of natural compounds like ECE in the management of IBD, offering a safer and more effective approach to combating this challenging disease.
Use of CT scan Preoperative Planning in Facelift of the Lower Third of the Face and Neck
Authors: Borisenko Anastasiya Sergeyevna , Sharobaro Valentin Ilyich , Avdeev Alexey Evgenevich , Alimova Sekina , Burkhonova Nigora Saymukhuddinovna , Anastasiia Fisun Anastasiia
Published: November 2023

Abstract: The pursuit of youth and attractiveness is a fundamental desire in contemporary society. For many individuals, the appearance of visible signs of aging, such as skin laxity, gravitational changes in facial and neck soft tissues, and loss of harmonious proportions, can be psychologically distressing. The choice of effective methods for addressing these changes depends on their specific characteristics, the patient's anatomical features, and the type of facial aging. The introduction of CT scan to determine the hyoid bone level, the volume of soft tissue structures in the cervi-co-mental area, ptosis of subplatysmal structures, and the volume of submandibular glands, in addition to ultrasound study of the submental projection at the preoperative stage, are key for taking the best decision regarding preoperative planning. The aim of this case report is to illustrate how CT scan is a fundamental part of the preoperative assessment of the mid and lower third of the face to ensure the most favorable aesthetic outcomes for each patient. Key message: To attain harmonious results in surgical correction of age-related facial and neck changes, it is crucial to consider the patient's anatomical features and the extent of age-related alterations. A comprehensive facial analysis, taking into account the type of facial aging and employing CT scan and ultrasound examination of the soft tissues in the chin region, facilitates the development of an individualized plan tailored to achieve the patient's desired outcome.
No Association between Antimicrobial Consumption and Antimicrobial Resistance in a PrEP Population: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Vanbaelen Thibaut , Laumen Jolein , Van Dijck Christophe , De Block Tessa , Manoharan-Basil Sheeba , Kenyon Chris
Published: November 2023

Background:In antibiotic naïve populations, there is a strong association between the use of an antimicrobial and resistance to this antimicrobial. Less evidence is available as to whether this relationship is weakened in populations highly exposed to antimicrobials. Individuals taking HIV PrEP have a high intake of antimicrobials. We previously found that there was no difference in the prevalence of pheno- and genotypic antimicrobial resistance between two groups of PrEP clients who had, and had not, taken antimicrobials in the prior 6-months. Both groups did, however, have a higher prevalence of resistance than a sample of the general population. Methods: In the current study, we used zero-inflated negative binomial regression models to evaluate if there was an individual level association between the consumption of antimicrobials and 1. the minimum inhibitory susceptibilities of oral Neisseria subflava and 2. the abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes in the oropharynges of these individuals. Results:We found no evidence of an association between the consumption of antimicrobials and the minimum inhibitory susceptibilities of oral Neisseria subflava or the abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes in these individuals. Conclusions:We conclude that in high antimicrobial consumption populations, the association between antimicrobial consumption and resistance may be attenuated.
One-Year Real-World Experience with Mavacamten and its Physiologic Effects on Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kim Daniel , Chu Emily , Keamy-Minor Emily , Paranjpe Ishan , Tang Wilson , O'Sullivan Jack , Desai Yaanik , Liu Michael , Munsey Elise , Hecker Kimberly , Cuenco Isabella , Kao Beth , Bacolor Ellen , Bonnett Colleen , Linder Andrea , Lacar Kathleen , Robles Nancy , Lamendola Cynthia , Smith Allysonne , Knowles Joshua , Perez Marco , Kawana Masataka , Sallam Karim , Weldy Chad , Wheeler Matthew , Parikh Victoria , Salisbury Heidi , Ashley Euan
Published: November 2023

We describe real-world use of mavacamten in 50 patients with oHCM. Consistent with EXPLORER-HCM and VALOR-HCM, we report significant improvement in wall thickness, mitral regurgitation, left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and NYHA class. Moreover, in our center’s experience, neither arrhythmia burden, nor contractility have worsened in the vast majority of patients: We note a clinically insignificant mean decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), with only two patients requiring temporary mavacamten discontinuance for LVEF < 50%. Adverse events were rare, unrelated to mavacamten itself, and seen solely in patients with disease too advanced to have been represented in clinical trials. Our multidisciplinary pathway enabled us to provide a large number of patients with a novel closely-monitored therapeutic within just a few months of commercial availability. These data lead us to conclude that mavacamten, as a first-in-class cardiac myosin inhibitor, is safe and efficacious in real-world settings.
Hydroxyapatite as a Material for Transplantology: Clinical Experience and Prospects of Application
Authors: Markelov Vitaliy , Danilko Kseniya , Solntzev Vadim , Piatnitskaia Svetlana , Shangina Olga , Bilyalov Azat , Chugunov Svyatoslav , Akhatov Iskander
Published: November 2023

Abstract: The centrepiece of this analytical review is the metabolism of hydroxyapatite in its natural, bone, and synthetic forms, where the mitochondria-mediated mechanism may serve as the leading mechanism. The possibility that osteoblast mitochondria play an important role in the initial stages of bone mineralisation is discussed. Furthermore, the paper highlights the key role of mitochondria in the metabolism of synthetic hydroxyapatite.Differences between the results of in vivo and in vitro studies using synthetic hydroxyapatite of different morphologies are also detailed. It is noted that long-term infiltration with immune cells and in vivo studies are necessary to adequately evaluate hydroxyapatite as a bone-plastic material.Particular attention is given to the interaction of hydroxyapatite with immune cells and its ability to affect the ribosomes and mitochondria of cells. Due to its mechanical properties, scalability and potential use for the treatment of extensive bone defects of tumor origin, hydroxyapatite is a promising material.This study also highlights the importance of further development of in vitro research methods in the context of their biomimeticity. Overall, this work offers a theoretical direction for future studies of hydroxyapatite as a bone grafting material and emphasises the value of in vivo studies.
Quality of Colour Rendering in Photographic Scenes Illuminated by Light Sources with Light-Shaping Attachments
Authors: Štampfl Veronika , Ahtik Jure
Published: November 2023

When lighting photographic scenes, light sources are often coupled with light-shaping attachments to alter the original light. While the colour rendering properties of the light sources are known, the effect of the added modifiers has not yet been fully investigated. In this research, the effects of light-shaping attachments such as snoot, beauty dish and a range of softboxes on the colour rendering index of the original light sources are investigated using a series of spectrophotometric measurements. The results outline the effects of each light-shaping attachment and provide guidance on the usability of the modifiers used when it comes to accurate colour rendering.
Continuous Reactive-Roll-to-Roll Growth of Carbon Nanotubes for Fog Water Harvesting Applications
Authors: Meunier Jean-Luc , Ouellet Jeanne , Basu Kaustubh , Afoujal Alessio , Boudreault Richard , Tavares Jason Robert
Published: November 2023

A simple method is presented for the continuous generation of carbon nanotube forests stably anchored on stainless-steel surfaces using a reactive-roll-to-roll (RR2R) configuration. No addition of catalyst nanoparticles is required for the CNT-forest generation, the stainless-steel substrate itself being tuned to generate the catalytic growth sites. The process enables very larges surfaces covered with CNT forests having individual CNT roots anchored to the metallic ground through primary bonds. Fog water harvesting is demonstrated and tested as one potential application using long CNT-covered wires. The RR2R is performed in the gas phase, no solution processing of CNT suspensions is used contrary to usual R2R CNT-based technologies. Full or partial CNT-forest coverage provides tuning of the ratio and shape of hydrophobic and hydrophilic zones on the surface. This enables optimization of fog water harvesters for droplet capture through the hydrophobic CNT forest, and water removal from the hydrophilic SS surface. Water recovery tests using small harp-type harvesters with CNT-forest generate water capture of up to 2.2 g/cm2h under ultrasound-generated fog flow. The strong CNT root anchoring on the stainless steel surfaces provides opportunities for (i) robustness and easy transport of the composite structure, (ii) chemical functionalization and/or nanoparticle decoration of the structures, and opens the road for a series of applications on large scale surfaces, including fog harvesting.
Sectoral Assessment of Energy, Water, Waste and Land Nexus in the Sustainability of Agricultural Products in Cameroon
Authors: Pemi Boris Abeli Pekarou , Njomo Donatien , Tchinda René , Seutche Jean Calvin , Kenfack Armel Zambou , Babikir Mahamat Hassane , Chara-Dackou Venant Sorel
Published: November 2023

To ensure sustainable production and consumption in the agricultural sector, it is necessary to assess the contribution of each element of the nexus in the agricultural production chain. The aim of this study is to make a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the contributions of each element of the energy, water, waste and land nexus to agricultural products. A composite method approach combining aspects based on input-output model, Location Quotient (LQ) as well as competitive position is adopted. A database of nexus elements over a period from 2009 to 2018 is used for Cameroon, with ten regions considered. The results show proportions of around 0.42% energy, 67.88% water withdrawal, 11.91% harvested area, 97.81% waste for agricultural products. The geolocation of harvested areas shows that the largest portion is in the far north (1,373,829 ha) and the smallest in Adamawa (224,038 ha). Maximum production is in the central region (4,334,095 tons) and minimum in the Adamawa region (915,841 tons). The central, littoral and west regions are more representative of agricultural products.
The analysis of the competitive position of agricultural products contributes to a better orientation of national strategies for agricultural sustainability according to existing potentials.