bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bipolar electrochemical tweezers using pristine carbon fibers with intrinsically asymmetric features
Authors: Nogala Wojciech , Gupta Bhavana , Shrivastav Vishal , Sundriyal Shashank , Melvin Ambrose , Holdynski Marcin , Kuhn Alexander 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Structures that can change shape upon stimulation have various applications but often require complex processing. We present a simple method for actuation using bipolar electrochemistry to drive asymmetric reactions on the surface grooves of carbon fibers. In initial experiments, a free-standing carbon fiber is polarized in a bipolar cell, triggering benzoquinone/hydroquinone redox reactions in two compartments. Beyond a certain potential, ion transfer causes the fiber to move directionally due to reversible ion intercalation/deintercalation during oxidation/reduction. The local ionic adsorption/desorption on the surface also contributes to this motion. The fiber's bending intensity and direction depend on the length exposed to electrochemical reduction and groove orientation. Optimizing fiber alignment and stimulus parameters achieves effective bending. Two parallel fibers, oriented oppositely, mimic microtweezers.
A new autotrophic CO2 fixation pathway in Halomonas linked to nucleotide synthesis
Authors: Chen Guo-Qiang , Zhang Zhongnan , Zheng Xinyi , Shao Mingwei , Ding Jun , Zhang Ge , Wu Qiong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Organisms can achieve autotrophic growth using CO2 as the sole carbon source via one of the six known CO2 fixation pathways. This study identified a new CO2 fixation pathway in halophilic bacterium Halomonas bluephagenesis, which enables CO2-dependent growth. Isotope-labeled metabolomic analysis and gene disturbance results revealed that the nucleotide de novo synthesis pathway plays a crucial role in the cell growth of H. bluephagenesis in a CO2-rich environment. In this pathway, HCO3- is incorporated into the nucleotide base derived from aspartate or glutamine. Extracellular concentrations of adenine and cytosine increased from 0.3 g/L to 33.1 g/L, and from 0.1 g/L to 5.8 g/L, respectively, when grown in shake flasks in the presence of rich CO2. Our findings demonstrate that rational metabolic engineering of the central carbon network or modification of nitrogen sources can enhance nucleotide synthesis by increasing ribose and aspartate accumulation, thereby improving CO2-dependent growth of H. bluephagenesis. H. bluephagenesis has demonstrated the potential for producing nucleotides and nucleotide derivatives from CO2.
A Computational Modelling Study of Phytoconstituents of Curcuma longa Rhizome with IGF-1R Protein in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Oladapo Olajumoke Bisola , Agbonifo Worship , Imolele Anthony Godswill , Adebesin Oyindamola , Osho Stella , Agboola Oluwaseyi , Enafe Gabriel , Badaro Nadia Ibrahim , Ogungbemiro Festus Oladayo , Bello Adebayo , Okpuzor Joy 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Ovarian cance,r is a huge concern due to its high mortality rate and resis,tance tothe conventional therapies. Recent studies have focused on the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) as a therapeutic tphytochemicalsits ron the prolifa eration of cancer cells. Phytoco tituents from Curcuma longa ar known for their anti-cancer propertisignallingg them potential candidates for ovarian cancer treatment. This computational study aims to evaluate the molecular docking and pharmacokinetic profiles of ,phytochemicals in Curcuma longa against IGF-1R to explore their potential to inhicer ,progression.
Results: Molecular docking analysis showed that digalloyl-hexoside had the highest binding affinity with IGF-1R, with a docking score of -8.849 kcal/mol. Hyperoside and valoneic acid dilactone followed closely, showing strong interactions as well. All three compounds exhibited six hydrogen bonds with key residues like ASP 1056 and LYS 1003, contributing to their strong binding potential. Caffeic acid showed the lowest affinity with a docking score of -7.985 kcal/mol. ADMET analysis reveal ed that caffeic acid had the highest gastrointestinal absorption and skin permeability, adhering to Lipinski’s rule of five. In contrast, digalloyl-hexoside, hyperoside, and valoneic acid dilactone had lower bioavailability and gastrointestinal absorption but exhibited acceptable pharmacokinetic properties.
Conclusion: Digalloyl-hexoside exhibited the highest binding affinity, followed by hyperoside and valoneic acid dilactone, though all compounds had lower docking scores than the reference ligand. ADMET analysis revealed that while caffeic acid had the highest absorption, the other compounds showed better overall pharmacokinetic profiles. However, low gastrointestinal absorption limits their bioavailability. Further research, including structural modifications and additional validation, is recommended.
The Effects of Mandillo (Crassocephalum Macropappum) on the Physico-chemical Profile and Microbial Dynamics during Enset (Ensete Ventricosum Welw.) Fermentation
Authors: Robi Alemu Gonfa , Megersa Negussie , Mehari Tetemke , Park Seul-Ki , Kim Young-Mog , Dissasa Guta , Muleta Diriba 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Fermentation of Enset has been known for a long time to produce a starchy and nutritionally enriched food product referred as Kocho. However, due to uncommon sensory attributes for non-Enset consuming societies, a short shelf life and a long fermentation period, Kocho has been ignored worldwide and limited to only some regions of Ethiopia. To improve its sensory attributes and enhance its fermentation rate, Shekacho society in Ethiopia uses the stem of Mandillo as a starter culture ingredient. Therefore, this study was initiated to determine the effects of Mandillo (Crassocephalum macropappum) on the microbial dynamics and physicochemical properties of Enset (Ensete Ventricosum Welw.) fermentation products. Microbial enumeration and isolation were carried out following standard methods on suitable culture media. Various fermentation parameters were determined analytically. Molecular identification of LAB and yeasts was based on 16S and 18S rRNA genes sequencing, respectively. In this study, significant (p<0.05) differences were observed between control (Koki) and experimental Kocho (Kom) samples. The lactic acid bacterial (LAB) count increased by 23.3 folds on day 37 of fermentation of Enset with Mandillo. Similarly, the yeast count increased by 2.6 folds on day 29 of the fermentation period. On the final (45 day), lactic acid and acetic acid contents increased by 103.90% and 40.04%, respectively whose cumulative effect resulted in a lowering of pH by 0.65. The titratable acidity increased by 64.34%. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis assigned LAB to Lactobacillusspp. Accordingly, 82.14% strains identified asLactobacillus, 9.82%isolates identified as Leuconostoc, and 8.04% isolates reported unidentified LAB strains in Kocho. Similarly, the major yeast strains were molecularly characterized as Candida boidinii (26%), Wickerhamomycessp. UFLA (16%), Candida sp. MM 4018 (8%), but some yeast strains (28%) remained also an unidentified. The current findings revealed that Mandillo exhibited significant effect on the microbial dynamics of Enset fermentation with overall improvement of the final product.
Evaluation of Long Axial Field-of-View (LAFOV) PET/CT for Post-Treatment Dosimetry in Yttrium-90 Radioembolization of Liver Tumors: A Comparative Study with Conventional SPECT Imaging
Authors: Zeimpekis Konstantinos , Sari Hasan , Gözlügöl Nasir , Achangwa Ngwe Rawlings , Shi Kuangyu , Schindewolf Marc , Afshar-Oromieh Ali , Rominger Axel , Seifert Robert 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose Long axial field-of-view (LAFOV) PET/CT scanners enable high sensitivity and wide anatomical coverage. Therefore, they seem ideal to perform post-selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) 90Y scans, which are needed, to confirm that the dose is delivered to the tumors and that healthy organs are spared. However, it is unclear to what extent the use of LAFOV PET is feasible and which dosimetry approaches results in accurate measurements.
Methods In this retrospective analysis, a total number of 32 patients was included (median age 71, IQR 64-76), which had HCC, CCC or liver metastases. All patients underwent SIRT, and the post-therapy scan was acquired on a SPECT/CT and a LAFOV Biograph Quadra PET/CT with a 20-minute acquisition time. Post-treatment dosimetry, regarding the tumor, whole-liver and lung (LMD) absorbed dose was done using an organ-wise (Simplicit90Y) and a voxel-wise approach (HERMIA Dosimetry) which used a semi-Monte Carlo algorithm. The lung shunt fraction (LSF) was also measured using the voxel-wise approach and compared to the planned.
Results The planning, post-treatment SPECT and PET (SPECTpre, SPECTpost, PETpost) median tumor doses based on the organ-wise dosimetry were 276.0 Gy (200.0-330.0 Gy), 232.0 Gy (158.5-303.5 Gy) and 267.5 Gy (182.5-370.8 Gy). In contrast, the median voxel-wise PETpost dose was significantly smaller than the planned SPECTpre (152.5 Gy (94.8-223.8 Gy); p<0.00001). Moreover, the median tumor absorbed dose at 90% (D90) of the tumor volume was significantly higher in SPECTpost compared with PETpost (123.5 Gy; 81.5 -180.0 vs. 30.5 Gy; 11.3-106.3; p < 0.00001). The PETpost measured LSF was significantly lower compared to the planned SPECTpre (0.89%; 0.4-1.3% vs. 2.3%; 1.5-3.6%; p<0.0001). Similarly, the measured PETpost median LMD was considerably lower to the planned SPECTpre (1.2 Gy; 0.6-2.3 vs. 2.5 Gy; 1.4-4.7; p<0.0001)
Conclusion LAFOV PET enabled the direct measurement of post therapy lung dose and tumor doses that correlated well with the planned treatment doses. However, current voxel-wise-based tumor dosimetry seems to be inaccurate for LAFOV PET. In addition, dose volume histogram-based metrics also significantly underestimate the delivered dose. Therefore, improved dosimetry tools are needed for reliable voxel-wise 90Y dosimetry to leverage the sensitivity and spatial resolution of LAFOV PET scanners.
A Novel Approach to Copy-Move Forgery Detection Using DPI-Based Pixel Movement Measurement
Authors: Garzotto David 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

With the rise of digital document manipulation, traditional methods of forensic document examination have proven limited in detecting sophisticated forgeries, particularly in the case of copy-move forgery. This paper introduces a novel pixel-based method for detecting such forgeries by calculating the movement of artifacts within a document based on the document's resolution (DPI) and pixel shift differences. The methodology offers a precise, quantifiable approach that enhances traditional forgery detection techniques by identifying subtle digital manipulations in signatures and document elements. A case study involving the movement of an artifact within a forged digital signature highlights the effectiveness of this approach. The results indicate that this technique can significantly contribute to modern digital forensic analysis and is particularly well-suited to detecting copy-move forgery in digitally altered documents.
Mechanism of recognition and binding of Ultrabithorax
Authors: SINGH SAVITA 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Hox genes are highly conserved throughout metazoan evolution and code for homeodomain containing transcription factors that control specific developmental pathways. Ultrabithorax (Ubx) exerts its function mainly through activation or repression of downstream genes. Only a few direct target genes of Ubx have been identified and studied in detail therefore mechanism of Ubx mediated control of its target gene is far from complete. Understanding the mechanisms by which Ubx regulates its targets requires the knowledge of target genes and of sequence motifs that serve as recognition and binding elements for Ubx. By employing chip-on-chip and bioinformatics approach, our lab identified a large number of downstream targets of Ubx. The sequence analyses of these genes have suggested few potential Ubx-binding and/or recognition motifs. Here we report the results of cell-based luciferase assays to confirm if these motifs are indeed Ubx-response elements and understand the mechanism of activation and repression.
Toxoplasma gondii Prevalence and Risk Factors among Female Students at Al-Yemenia University, Sana'a City, Yemen
Authors: Al-Wajeeh Talal Saeed , Al-Hadheq Ali Ahmed , Nomaan Majeed Hazzaa , Edrees Wadhah Hassan , Al-Shehari Wadee Abdullah 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common human infections worldwide. It is caused by the intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among female students at Al-Yemenia University in Yemen.
Methods: Two hundred female students were randomly selected for this cross-sectional study. The participants were screened for Toxoplasma gondii antibodies using an immunochromatographic technique (ICT). Demographic, socioeconomic, risk factors, and behavioural data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire via face-to-face interviews.
Results:The seropositivity rate for T. gondii was (6.0%). The majority were from age groups of 18–20 and 21–24 years (41.7%), who lived in the urban area (83.3%), unmarried individuals (83.8%), and middle-income participants (66.7%), with a non-significant difference (P < 0.05). Female students who washed vegetables before eating had a high risk of T. gondii infection (OR = 4.810), followed by raising cats in the house (OR = 3.812), and had a history of blood transfusion (OR = 1.618).
Conclusion: This study reported low seroprevalence among female students at Al-Yemenia University, Yemen. Environmental sanitation, personal hygiene, and health education are all required for promotion in order to prevent Toxoplasma gondii infection among female students.
Systematic quantification of hydrogen in pipeline steel by atom probe tomography after ambient charging and transfer
Authors: Marceau Ross , Wang Shuohan , Zhang Peng , Laleh Majid , Jiang Lu , Tan Mike 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Atom probe tomography (APT) is a promising tool to measure the atomic-scale distribution of hydrogen in solid matter, which can be used to assess the hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility of materials. However, the accuracy of such measurements resulting from ambient charging and transfer experiments needs to be established. In this work, APT quantification of hydrogen (H) and deuterium (D) in a typical X65 pipeline steel has been determined after ambient charging and transfer to ascertain the contribution of artifacts to the measured H/D signal. A series of experimental workflows related to sample preparation (electropolishing, focussed ion beam) and electrochemical charging conditions (different electrolytes and charging potentials) were explored for H/D measurement using APT. The results show that APT can be used to measure charged H/D with statistical confidence after ambient charging and transfer, that hydrogen ingress occurs during electropolishing, and using a more negative charging potential will introduce more H/D into the material.
A Study of Cosmic Ray Variability During a Solar Magnetic Cycle (Solar Cycles 23 and 24)
Authors: Onuchukwu Chika Christian , Edwin Dio 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We investigated variations in Cosmic Ray (CR) intensities during Solar Cycles (SC) 23 and 24. Using data from the Mexico neutron monitor, solar wind parameters (speed, temperature, plasma density), geomagnetic indices (Kp,Dst, ap) from OMNI, and sunspot numbers from SISLO, we analyzed CR intensities during the ascending (ASC) and declining (DSC) phases of each cycle. Our analysis, using distribution plots and regression methods, showed higher CR intensities during the DSC phases compared to the ASC phases for both cycles. Additionally, average CR values were higher during SC 24 than SC 23. These variations are linked to differences in sunspot numbers, solar wind parameters, and geomagnetic indices, differences in magnetic transport across the Sun differ between the ASC and DSC phases, with SC 24 exhibiting weaker meridional flow compared to SC 23.
Biofilm formation and response in Exserohilum turcicum
Authors: Kola Wisely , Nsibo David , Motaung Thabiso 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Bacteria are well known and studied for biofilm formation in varying environments. There are however limited studies that have characterised biofilm formation in plant pathogenic fungi. The aim of this study was to assess the biofilm-forming capacity of Exserohilum turcicum, the causal pathogen of Norther leaf blight, under varying environmental conditions, including growth media, temperature, and pH. Biofilm traits namely, metabolic activity, biomass, and extracellular matrix (ECM) production, were analysed on 16 strains under various pH and temperature conditions at two-time points (3 and 7 days). All strains studied formed self-produced gelatinous matrix at an optimum temperature of 25 °C and a pH of 10 at both time points. To further assess the capacity of E. turcicumto form biofilms, two (best and least) biofilm-forming strains among the 16 were subjected to heat treatment at 45 °C and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal laser microscopy (CLSM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Both strains exhibited increased amounts of ECM when heat-treated compared to the non-heat-treated biofilm. Additionally, the hyphal cell wall thickened under heat treatments. The ECM, being a hallmark of biofilm formation, is often produced by microbial biofilms in response to stressful environments. Therefore, our findings demonstrated that E. turcicum produces biofilms as a survival mechanism, particularly under specific environmental conditions, which supports its persistence and survival in the field.
Measuring Ransomware Propagation Patterns via Network Traffic Analysis: An Automated Approach
Authors: Akibis Michael , Pereira Joaquin , Clark David , Mitchell Victoria , Alvarez Hugo 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Ransomware continues to pose an escalating threat to global network infrastructures, capable of causing extensive financial and operational damage across industries. Understanding the patterns of ransomware propagation through network traffic analysis offers a novel and significant approach to early detection and mitigation. By employing a controlled sandbox environment, combined with machine learning techniques, this research captures distinct traffic behaviors associated with ransomware attacks, focusing on metrics such as lateral movement speed, packet size variability, and connection durations. The study's approach demonstrates how detailed feature extraction from network traffic can provide a more dynamic and adaptive defense against emerging ransomware threats, surpassing the limitations of traditional signature-based detection methods. The results of the experiments reveal key differences in the propagation strategies of various ransomware families, providing valuable insights for cybersecurity practitioners looking to enhance network defenses. Through the integration of real-time traffic analysis and machine learning models, the research presents a scalable framework for detecting ransomware activity in both controlled and real-world networks.
New model to predict thermomagnetic properties of nanostructured magnetic compounds
Authors: Gokhfeld Denis , Koblischka Michael R. , Koblischka-Veneva Anjela 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The development of new materials showing the magneto-caloric effect (MCE) requires fast and reliable characterization methods. For this purpose, a phenomenological model developed by M. A. Hamad has proven to be a useful tool to predict the magnetocaloric properties (the isothermal magnetic entropy change, ΔSM, the magnetization-related change of the specific heat, ΔCP,H, and the relative cooling power, RCP) via calculation from magnetization measurements as a function of temperature, M(T). However, fitting the M(T) data is difficult for broad, smoothed-out transition curves which are often observed for material systems such as core-shell nanoparticles, nanowires, nanowire fabrics or nanoparticle hybrid materials. Thus, in this contribution we present a different approach enabling proper fitting of such magnetization data via the use of the asymmetric Boltzmann sigmoid function. As examples, we present fits to M(T) curves of polycrystalline, bulk La0.67Ba0.33MnO3 as well as La1-xSrxMnO3 (x = 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) and La0.7Ca0.3MnO3 nanostructured materials from various authors.
AN INVESTIGATION OF COLLEGE TEACHERS’ ATTITUDE TOWARDS RESEARCH IN NAGALAND
Authors: Nzanbemo Tungoe  , Dr. Boyillapalli Venkata Rao  
Published: October 2024

Research plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, addressing challenges, and promoting academic growth across various fields. Progress in every discipline relies heavily on thorough investigation and discovery. This study aims to investigate college teachers' views towards research, emphasizing on gender and locality of residence. It seeks to evaluate whether there are significant differences in mean scores of research attitudes over four dimensions determined by gender, as well as locality of residence. Using random sampling, the researcher surveyed 600 college teachers from 29 colleges in Nagaland. Data analysis employed statistical methods like mean, standard deviations and independent sample t-test. The tool for the study was the "Attitude towards Research" questionnaire developed by Vishal Sood and Prof. Y.K Sharma (2012), but revalidated by the researcher. The split-half reliability between odd and even items is 0.834, while the overall scale reliability is 0.91. Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 0.88 confirming high internal consistency. The findings provided insight into how these demographic variables influence teachers' participation in research activities.