bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Bioinformatics Opportunities for Identification and Study of Medicinal Plants: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: gupta gopal , Khatoon Shan , singh Rajnish , gupta Shashank , rai Devendra
Published: May 2024

Medicinal plants have been a cornerstone of traditional medicine systems for centuries, offering a vast array of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. However, the identification, characterization, and elucidation of the pharmacological properties of these plants have often been challenging due to their complex chemical composition and diverse biological activities. Bioinformatics, with its interdisciplinary approach combining biology, computer science, and information technology, presents a powerful toolkit for the systematic study of medicinal plants. This review provides an overview of bioinformatics methodologies and resources that can facilitate the identification, phytochemical analysis, pharmacological investigation, and conservation of medicinal plants. It highlights the integration of omics technologies, computational algorithms, database resources, and molecular modeling techniques in advancing our understanding of medicinal plants' therapeutic potential and their applications in drug discovery and development.
Combined Response of Ocular Cyclotorsion and Head Tilt during Body Tilt
Authors: Woo Se Joon , Hwang Sang-Ho , Chung Ki Young , Yang Hee Kyung , Han Sang Beom , Hwang Jeong-Min
Published: May 2024

To analyze the combined response of ocular cyclotorsion and head tilt during body tilt and to interpret the physiologic role of those movements, each of the three subjects completed six different experiments of body tilt not fixating their head movements using a flight simulator, which consisted of combinations of three tilt angles (30, 45, and 60) and two visual conditions. Head tilt and ocular cyclotorsion of the right eye before, during, and after the tilt maneuver were recorded and analyzed by time sequence. In the active tilting phase, the right eye showed a stepladder pattern of multiple repeats of fast and slow cyclotorsion along with head tilt to obtain maximum visual information. During the stationary tilting phase, there occurred a small amount (mean, 2.3) of ocular cyclotorsion which was reciprocal to that of head tilt. The visual cue of body tilt through the central visual field induced a larger amount of head tilt but affected little ocular cyclotorsion. The maximum degree of ocular cyclotorsion during each experiment was 10.2 on average. In conclusion, the combined response of ocular cyclotorsion and head tilt develops during body tilt and it compromises the conflicting needs between binocular vision and gravitational orientation.
Reinforced Polymers with Natural Fiber
Authors: Rolon Barbara Gonzalez , Cruz Jose Nolasco
Published: May 2024

The interest in obtaining new composite materials with diverse properties has created a growing interest in natural fi-bers as reinforcement in polymers, which has generated an impact in sectors such as automotive and construction, dis-placing synthetic fibers. Properties such as low density, low cost, and rene.wable make these fibers an attractive alterna-tive to reduce environmental impact. Their application in polymers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and epoxy resins, has allowed the modification of polymeric composite materials' mechanical and physical properties (NFRP). This review focuses on investigating the status of natural fiber-reinforced polymers. It analyzes their worldwide demand, chemical characteristics, physical and mechanical properties, and various applications in different sectors and indus-tries. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of NFRPs are highlighted, highlighting their potential for new ap-plications.
Target Detection of Safety Protective Gear Using the Improved YOLOv5
Authors: Liu Hao , Qin Xue
Published: May 2024

In high-risk railway construction, personal protective equipment monitoring is critical but challenging due to small and frequently obstructed targets. We propose YOLO-EA, an innovative model that enhances safety measure detection by integrating ECA into its backbone's convolutional layers, improving discernment of minuscule objects like hardhats. YOLO-EA further refines target recognition under occlusion by replacing GIoU with EIoU loss. YOLO-EA's effectiveness was empirically substantiated using a dataset derived from real-world railway construction site surveillance footage. It outperforms YOLOv5, achieving 98.9% precision and 94.7% recall, up 2.5% and 0.5% respectively, while maintaining real-time performance at 70.774 fps. This highly efficient and precise YOLO-EA holds great promise for practical application in intricate construction scenarios, enforcing stringent safety compliance during complex railway construction projects.
Genetic and Molecular Regulation of Cotton Fiber Initiation and Elongation
Authors: Bai Fang , Scheffler Jodi
Published: May 2024

Cotton fiber, a crucial and sustainable resource for global textile production, undergoes a complex five-stage developmental process, encompassing initiation, elongation, transition, secondary cell wall biosynthesis, and maturation. These elongated single-cell fibers originate from the outer ovule epidermis. The development of cotton fibers involves intricate changes in gene expression and physiological processes, resulting in a nearly pure cellulose product vital for the global cotton industry. Decoding genes associated with fiber development enhances our understanding of cotton fiber mechanisms and facilitates the cultivation of varieties with enhanced quality. In recent decades, advanced omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, have played a pivotal role in identifying genes and gene products linked to cotton fiber development, including the MYB transcription factor family which coordinates cotton fiber development. Molecular studies have revealed transcription factors like MYB, WRKY, Homeodomain Leucine Zipper (HD-ZIP) and basic Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH) influencing fiber initiation and elongation. The intricate interplay of phytohormones like auxin, gibberellic acid (GA), brassinosteroid (BR), jasmonic acid (JA), ethylene, abscisic acid (ABA), and cytokinin is explored, providing a comprehensive perspective on shaping cotton fibers. Numerous candidate genes and cellular processes affecting various aspects of fiber development hold promise for genetic engineering or marker-assisted breeding to improve fiber quality. This review presents a comprehensive overview of key achievements in cotton molecular biology, with a specific emphasis on recent advancements in understanding transcription factors and phytohormones involved in cotton fiber initiation and elongation.
A Novel Approach for Enhancement of Security through Defining Spatial Secrecy Outage Probability in Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Liu Xiaokai , Xu Fangmin , Ning LiNang , Zhao Chenglin , XIA Hao
Published: May 2024

The rapid development of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has brought enormous opportunities to the industrial environment but has also posed significant challenges to network security, especially the physical layer security challenges,which is crucial for the reliable transmission of messages interconnected devices and sensors. Focus on the enhancing the physical layer security in the IIoT communication, this paper proposed a mechanism of Spatial Secrecy Outage Probability (SSOP) to ensure the secure transmission of data. The SSOP algorithm assumes that the location of legitimate device is known, while eavesdropper on the random distribution of device locations, forming the SSOP model related to device locations from the perspective of insecure regions (ISR) and secure regions (SR), and deduce the closed-form expression for its upper bound. Subsequently under the constraint of SSOP conditions, establish an optimization model with the objective of system throughput maximization based on Spatial Secrecy Outage Probability(SRM-SSOP). By optimizing the transmission rate of legitimate channels or controlling the transmission power, the maximization of system throughput can be achieved, thus reducing the consumption of communication resources. Through sophisticated modeling and simulation in the MATLAB, we verified the accuracy of the definition and derived upper bound of SSOP. The experimental results also show that SSOP algorithm gradually converges to a specific value as the number of antenna elements increases. In addition, we observed that when the receiver device is aligned with the normal direction of the transmit antenna array, the SSOP reaches a minimum value. These performance are crucial for understanding and optimizing the security performance of IIoT communication systems.
Fabrication Tolerances Impact on an ODAC Based PAM-4 Transmitter
Authors: ABEJIDE ADEBAYO EMMANUEL , Santos João , Chattopadhyay Tanay , Rodrigues Francisco , Lima Mario , Teixeira Antonio
Published: May 2024

Photonic integrated circuits (PIC) devices are impacted by fabrication tolerances and therefore, prior knowledge of such variation could improve the PIC fabrication process and overall yield. This paper presents a method for predicting the fabrication impacts on a telecommunication optical digital to analog converter (oDAC) based pulse amplitude modulator level four (PAM-4) transmitter. Our findings allow us to estimate the production yield in fabrication scenario using symbol error rate (SER) benchmark.
Agent-Based Modeling for Construction Resource Positioning Using Digital Twin and BLE Technologies
Authors: Abdelalim Ahmed Mohammed , Said Salah Omar , A.AL Naser AlJawharah , Sharaf Ahmed , ElSamadony Adel , Kontoni Denise-Penelope N. , Tantawy Mohamed
Published: May 2024

The domain of construction engineering and management is evolving rapidly. Optimizing resource positioning is crucial for meeting the challenges of efficiency and productivity. This research presents a novel methodology that incorporates Agent-Based Modeling (ABM), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technologies, augmented with a Client Early Warning System (CEWS) and a Decision Support System (DSS). What makes this study unique is that it provides a real-time methodology for resource allocation and project management, tailored to address the complexities of modern construction projects. The application of this integrated technological framework marks a significant leap in construction management, empowering data-driven decision-making and significantly improving project efficiency. Empirically validated through a case study at Helwan University's College of Engineering and substantiated by expert surveys, this research showcases a transformative model for resource management. The findings not only underscore the practical applicability of this approach but also open new horizons for its adoption in global construction practices, offering insights for future research endeavors focused on expanding these methodologies to a wider range of resources.
Comparison of Coronary Artery Disease Involvement in Patients With or Without Familial History
Authors: Khameneh Bagheri Ramin , Hoseini Moghadam Hosna , Eshraghi Ali , Emadzadeh Maryam , Keihanian Faeze
Published: May 2024

Introduction: It is demonstrated that both a familial history and genetic risk score are associated with subclinical atherosclerosis and most recently have been shown to each provide independent information for future cardiovascular events that seems additive when both are present. The exact mechanism that is responsible for higher risk of patients with positive familial history is yet unknown. In order to find this relationship in Iranian population because of lack of data, we assessed pattern of CAD involvement in patients with positive familial history and without.
Methods: This was a cross sectional study that was performed between April 2019 and April 2020 in Imam Rezan and Ghaem Hospitals, Mashhad, Iran. We enrolled all patients with typical chest pain and markedly CAD such as STEMI, non-STEMI, unstable angina, chronic stable angina or sudden cardiac death. Patients’ age were between 18 to 65 years of old. They were divided into 2 groups: patient with familial history of CAD and those without and evaluated for potential risk factors of CAD.
Results: This study was performed on 300 patients with CAD who underwent coronary angiography. Of these patients, 180 of them had positive familial history and 120 of them were without familial history. One hundred seventy five of participants were male (58.3%) with mean age of 54.2 years old. Multivariate regression analysis of risk factors showed that age (OR: 1.04, P=0.014), gender (OR: 0.564, P=0.035) and hypertension (OR: 1.99, P= 0.008) are significantly different in two groups. Vessel involvement in both groups showed that multi-vessel involvement in patients with positive familial history (49.2%) was higher than in patients without (36.1%). Three vessel disease (OR: 2.55, P=0.013) was significantly higher in patients with previous familial history rather than patients without after adjusting for other risk factors.
Conclusion: In conclusion, we found that a positive familial history of CAD is associated with the severity, morphology (non-calcified and mixed) and extent of coronary atherosclerosis.
Temperature analysis of a custom-built electric vehicle at two different speeds
Authors: Heo Jin , Seo Yeonju , Lee Jaemyoung
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we examined the temperature variations of key constituents during the operational cycle of a custom-built electric vehicle. The vehicle was made employing a motor of 10kW, a KLS7275D controller, and a lithium-ion battery. Temperature sensors for monitoring was affixed to the motor, controller, and battery, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of thermal behaviors. A controlled 20 minute driving tests encompassing both high and low speeds were executed to scrutinize temperature variations. Our findings reveal that the controller exhibited the most substantial temperature fluctuation compared to the battery and motor. Results shows the importance of thermal management strategies for components to ensure optimal driving performance and component reliability in electric vehicles.
Electro-Hydraulic Variable-Speed Drive Network Technology– First Experimental Validation
Authors: Schmidt Lasse , van Binsbergen-Galán Mikkel
Published: May 2024

The improvement of energy efficiency of hydraulic systems remains to be an essential challenge for the industry, and the demand for more sustainable solutions is increasing. A main focus in this endeavor is the ability to eliminate or strongly reduce the use of throttle control valves which have been the preferred control element in industrial hydraulic systems for decades. Components have been subject to continuous evolution, and current industrial grade hydraulic pumps and motors are both efficient and reliable. Even though few percentages of energy efficiency can still be achieved, the main achievements in terms of efficiency is associated with novel system designs rather than further development of components. An area subject to increasing attention is the field of variable-speed displacement control, allowing to avoid the main control valve throttle losses. Systems using this technology are, however, mainly developed as standalone drive systems, necessitating maximum force, speed and power installed in each axis, with limited hydraulic power distribution capability as compared to valve controlled systems. An emerging field addressing this challenge is so-called electro-hydraulic variable-speed drive networks which allow to completely eliminate the use of control valves and enables power sharing both electrically and hydraulically, potentially reducing the necessary installed power in many cases. The idea of such a technology was first proposed in 2022, and so far developments reported in literature have mainly been of theoretical nature. This article presents the first ever experimental results for a dual cylinder electro-hydraulic variable-speed drive network prototype. The prototype has been developed for an industrial application, but has initially been implemented in a laboratory testbench. Extensive data acquisition has been conducted while subject to the associated industrial motion cycle, under different load conditions. The data is further used in combination with models to predict the total efficiency of the drive network prototype under higher loads than what could be achieved in the laboratory, suggesting a total efficiency from the electric supply to the cylinder pistons of 68 %. Re-configuring the prototype to a known standalone drive system structure implies comparable efficiencies. Finally, the drive network is theoretically compared to a valve drive solution, generally suggesting the prototype drive network to provide efficiency improvements of at least 40 % in comparison.
Developing a Tool to Assess the Impact of Simulated Intervention Strategies on Suicide and Suicidal Behaviours in Canada: A Dynamic Modelling & Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Zahan Rifat , Mikuliak Jalen , Osgood Nathaniel D.
Published: May 2024

Suicide dynamics form a complex system deeply influenced by interrelated factors, necessitating advanced methodologies for comprehensive analysis. This study pioneers the application of Particle Markov Chain Monte Carlo (PMCMC) methods in suicide research, recognized for their enhanced sampling efficiency over traditional techniques in complex, high-dimensional models. PMCMC is particularly adept at handling non-Gaussian distributions and navigating parameter spaces efficiently, preventing the entrapment in local optima. Utilizing PMCMC, our research simulated a broad spectrum of potential outcomes, clarifying the probable scenarios and their likelihoods, thus enriching the predictive accuracy and understanding of suicide dynamics. These methods facilitated the exploration of dynamic interactions among key risk factors such as mental health issues, trauma, substance use, social isolation, and access to harmful means, whose complex interplays challenge predictive modeling. The study extends previous applications of PMCMC in complex systems like H1N1, opioid crises, and COVID-19 to the domain of suicide, suggesting its potential in enhancing decision-making and intervention strategies. However, limitations due to the model's simplified assumptions and the specificity of the data to certain populations underscore the necessity for broader application to validate findings across varied demographics. In summary, while PMCMC offers robust capabilities for the dynamic modeling of suicide, it requires careful parameter selection and consideration of computational demands. Future research should continue to leverage this approach in more complex settings, enhancing our ability to predict and mitigate suicide risks effectively.
Outer Hair Cell Motor Protein, Prestin, Is Not a Reliable Serological Biomarker for Mouse Cochlear Damage
Authors: Zheng Jing , Zhou Yingjie , Fuentes Robert  J. , Tan Xiaodong
Published: May 2024

The motor protein Prestin found in the outer hair cells (OHCs) of the inner ear is responsible for producing high sensitivity and sharp frequency selectivity for mammalian hearing. Some studies have suggested that Prestin could serve as a serological biomarker for cochlear damage since OHCs are highly vulnerable to damage from various sources of insults. However, the reported data are inconsistent and lack appropriate negative controls. To investigate this further, we measured Prestin quantities in the bloodstream using ELISA kits from different companies. Wildtype (WT) mice were exposed to different ototoxic treatments, including noise exposure and ototoxic reagents that kill OHCs rapidly. Prestin-knockout (KO) mice were used as a negative control. Our data show that some ELISA kits were not able to detect Prestin specifically. The ELISA kit that could detect Prestin protein from cochlear homogenates failed to detect Prestin in the bloodstream despite significant damage to OHCs in cochleae. Furthermore, the optical densities of samples, which correlate to Prestin quantities, were significantly influenced by hemolysis in the samples. In conclusion, Prestin from OHCs is not a sensitive and reliable serological biomarker for detecting cochlear damage in mice.
Production of Polymeric Films from Orange and Ginger Waste for Packaging Application and Investigation of Mechanical and Thermal Characteristics of Biofilms
Authors: Moaveni Raouf , Ghane Mohammad , Soltani Parham , Zamani Akram , Ramamoorthy Sunil Kumar
Published: May 2024

Citrus waste has been used as a source of bioplastic research in different ways. Because the juice industry produces significant amounts of residue each year, it would be advantageous to use the byproducts in the creation of new materials. For many years, researchers have been investigating an environmentally friendly way to take citrus and other organic waste and turn it into polymers that may be used, for instance, to produce bio-based and biodegradable films for food packaging. The goal of this study is to create biofilms from orange (OW) and ginger waste (GW) using an ultrafine grinder and study the films' properties. Since pectin has the ability to gel and because cellulosic fibres are strong, citrus waste has been studied for its potential to produce biofilms. After being washed, dried, and milled, orange and ginger waste were shaped into films using a casting process. Tensile testing was used to determine the mechanical properties of biofilms, while dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to determine their thermal properties. As the number of grinding cycles increased, the suspension's viscosity increased from 29 to 57 mPa.s for OW and from 217 to 376 mPa.s for GW while the particle size in the suspension significantly decreased. For OW and GW films, the highest tensile strength was 17 MPa and 15 MPa, respectively. The maximum strain obtained among all films was 4.8%. All the tested films were stable up to 150°C, and maximum degradation occurs after 300°C.
Smartphone-Based Fundus Camera and Telemedicine: A Study in the Brazilian Amazon Forest
Authors: Sabage Josmar , Sabage Luis Expedito , Mota Lanzarin João Vitor , Resende de Sousa Leonardo , Ussifati Negrine Isabela , Poltronieri Chiaroni Carolina , Ferreira de Almeida Ana Claudia , Mazzo Alessandra , Damaso Ênio Luís , Manzoni Lourençone Luiz Fernando
Published: May 2024

Smartphone-based fundus camera and telemedicine are an opportunity for accessing ocular health inequalities in underresourced areas. The objective of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of retinal findings in a community in the Amazon and propose strategies to enhance ocular health. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a river side community. Retinal photos from the posterior pole and optic disc were captured using a portable fundus camera. All photos and data were analyzed remotely by a retina specialist. The final sample was 107 participants, aged 52±17. Retinal findings were detected in 37.4% (95%CI 28.7–46.8) of the sample, the three main retinal findings were epithelial changes (10.3%, 95%CI 5.6–17.1), chorioretinal scars (8.4%, 95%CI 4.2–14.8), and dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (7.5%, 95%CI 3.6–13.6). This study detected retinal alterations in similar prevalence of other underresourced areas. Telemedicine is an opportunity to address health inequities, especially in ophthalmology, through relatively low-cost portable devices, supporting clinical decisions in areas with low health access, however, maintaining assistance after implementation is a challenge. Enhancing medical education and training local non-specialized health professionals for risk assessment, device handling, and data base use is reasonable to ensure follow-up.
Exploring Altered Neural Connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Simulation of Spatial and Topological Proximities
Authors: Montgomery Richard
Published: May 2024

This study presents a computational simulation to explore the distinctive patterns of neural connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), focusing on the concepts of spatial and topological proximities. ASD is characterized by unique cognitive and behavioral profiles, often attributed to atypical neural development and connectivity. Our simulation employs a two-pronged approach: first, by modeling spatial proximity through the generation of clustered 3D node positions, we mimic the observed over-connectivity in localized brain regions in ASD. Second, we construct a topological network to represent the complex interplay of under-connectivity and over-connectivity in functional brain networks, a hallmark of ASD's neural landscape. The spatial model demonstrates pronounced clustering, reflecting the structural brain differences and atypical growth patterns reported in neuroimaging studies of individuals with ASD. In contrast, the topological model reveals a network with a mix of sparse and dense connections, simulating the diverse and often contradictory findings of functional connectivity in ASD, such as reduced long-range connections and increased local connections. Our simulation provides a visual and conceptual framework for understanding the altered neural connectivity in ASD. It underscores the importance of considering both physical (spatial) and functional (topological) aspects of brain connectivity to grasp the full extent of neurodevelopmental deviations in ASD. This approach not only aids in elucidating the neural underpinnings of ASD's core symptoms but also offers a foundation for developing targeted interventions. Future research, integrating more complex and individual-specific data, could further refine this model, enhancing our understanding of ASD's neural dynamics and contributing to personalized therapeutic strategies.
Open-Label, Pilot, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Evaluating Four Oral Hygiene Regimens Using a Manual Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Mouthwash
Authors: Rosu Serban , Benatti Paola , Bianco Salvatore , Barattini Dionisio Franco , Nobile Vincenzo , Mellai Marta , Cattaneo Dario
Published: May 2024

In this pilot study, 84 subjects with a history of poor oral hygiene were enrolled in an interventional, randomized, prospective, open-label controlled trial. The aim was to provide preliminary clinical data on the products, the recruitment monthly rate, and patient satisfaction to estimate resources for the main study, as well as descriptive data on oral microbiota rebalancing. The population was divided into five groups: 20 participants received delicate mint toothpaste, 12 mint toothpaste, 20 mint mouthwash, and 20 delicate mint toothpaste and mint mouthwash using a specifically custom-designed toothbrush. The 12 subjects in the control group continued to use their oral care products without changing their normal routine. The study duration was 28 days.All subjects tolerated the products well, and there were no adverse events. Recruitment capability and procedures allowed a realistic estimation for the future main trial. The products did not cause any changes in tooth color. The participants who completed the treatment consisting of delicate mint toothpaste, mint mouthwash, and the specifically custom-designed toothbrush showed the gingival sensitivity best results (p≤0.000). The products induced a statistically significant decrease in plaque in all treated groups (p≤0.000) and an improvement of gingival sensitivity (delicate mint toothpaste, p≤0.005; mint toothpaste, p≤0.015; and mint mouthwash, p≤0.015). All the products were effective in stabilizing the oral microbiota.The tested products showed an optimal safety profile. They also stabilized the biodiversity of the oral microbiota, making it less susceptible to microbial fluctuations than the control group.
When Congenital Heart Repair Is Good but Vision Is Not –a Rare Occurrence of Cortical Visual Impairment Due to Unilateral Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Shree Abhavya , Kalra Rajat
Published: May 2024

Blindness or visual impairment following congenital heart repair is a rare complication. It can be transient or permanent depending in underlying etiology and damage to optic pathway. We report first case of transient blindness following congenital heart repair due to unilateral subdural hematoma in occipital region.
Sustainable Analysis of Cement-Stabilized Rammed Earth Construction in Rural Areas: A Case Study in Southeast China
Authors: DAI Shan , BAI Feng Wen , XIAO Jing
Published: May 2024

Construction using earth materials demonstrates ecological sustainability using locally sourced natural materials and environmentally friendly demolition methods. In this study, the environmental impact of adding cement to soil materials for rammed-earth farmhouse construction in rural China was investigated and comparatively simulated using the One Click LCA database, focusing on the conflict between sustainability objectives and the practical aspects of cement addition. By analyzing how the addition of cement aligns with local construction practices and by addressing the debate surrounding the inclusion of cement in rammed earth construction, our objective is to provide insights into achieving a balance between the environmental impact and the pragmatic considerations of using cement in earthen building practices. Three local structure scenarios are evaluated via simulations: a cement-stabilized rammed earth wall, a fired brick wall, and a localized reinforced concrete frame structure. The quantitative environmental impacts are assessed, and the qualitative differences in adaptation, economic sustainability, and other factors are examined in the context of present-day development in rural China. The results show that the use of cement-stabilized rammed earth wall-supported structures is associated with higher embodied carbon emissions compared to structures supported by reinforced concrete frames and enclosed by brick walls; however, these emissions are lower than those for brick wall-supported structures, while effectively meeting the structural requirements. In addition, the use of cement-stabilized earth for perimeter walls simplifies material management and disposal throughout the building's life cycle, and the cost-effectiveness of cement has been found to be substantially greater than that of reinforced concrete frames and brick structures, improving economic viability and social acceptability, especially among low-income communities in rural areas.
Open-Source Pipeline for Noise-Resilient Voice Data Preparation
Authors: Alim Anika , Purnapatra Sandip , Khondkar Md Jahangir Alam , Schuckers Stephanie , Imtiaz Masudul H.
Published: May 2024

A crucial component for developing an automated speaker or speech recognition system is voice preprocessing, which filters unwanted noise and detects the speech part. This study aimed to develop a computerized model to remove background noise and improve signal quality for future applications. This model was developed on a large longitudinal dataset containing varying real-world noise and validated on both a public dataset and a locally collected test dataset in different environments. An overall voice pre-processing pipeline is presented in this study, including denoising, segmentation, feature extraction, and ease of storage. The backbone of the denoising model is a Kalman filter, where the parameters were obtained from a grid search method; the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was used as the performance metric. Also, the segmentation was done to remove the pauses from the audio signal before the feature extraction. Finally, the data was stored as a template with the most common features. The SNR result suggested that the Kalman filter-based proposed method performed successfully across diverse datasets. Thus, this model provides a robust and adaptable solution for real-world scenarios and also ensures the data storing quality for future applications.
Detection Methods for Human Blood Cancers
Authors: Pandey Mahima , Rai Devendra Kumar , Gupta Gopal Krishna
Published: May 2024

Blood cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, pose significant diagnostic challenges due to their diverse and complex nature. Detecting these cancers early and accurately is crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. This review explores current and emerging detection methods for human blood cancers, focusing on their principles, advantages, limitations, and potential clinical applications.
New Heterostilbene and Triazole Oximes as Potential CNS-Active and Cholinesterase-Targeted Therapeutics
Authors: Mlakić Milena , Čadež Tena , Šinko Goran , Škorić Irena , Kovarik Zrinka
Published: May 2024

New furan, thiophene and triazole oximes were synthesized through several-step reaction paths to investigate their potential for development of central nervous systems (CNS)-active and cholinesterase-targeted therapeutics in organophosphorus compound (OP) poisonings. Acute OP poisoning is still a challenge in treating patients despite the development of a large number of oxime compounds that should have the capacity to reactivate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The activity of these two enzymes, crucial for neurotransmission, are blocked by the OP, which has the consequence of disturbing normal cholinergic nerve signal transduction in the peripheral and CNS, leading to cholinergic crisis. Oximes in use have one or two pyridinium rings and cross the brain–blood barrier poorly due to the quaternary nitrogen. Following our recent study on 2-thienostilbene oximes, in this paper we described the synthesis of 63 heterostilbene derivatives out of which 26 oximes were tested as inhibitors and reactivators of AChE and BChE inhibited by OP nerve agents – sarin and cyclosarin. While the majority of oximes were potent inhibitors of both enzymes in micromolar range, we identified several oximes as BChE or AChE selective inhibitors with a potential for drug development. Moreover, even oximes were poor reactivators of AChE, four heterocyclic derivatives reactivated the cyclosarin-inhibited BChE up to 70%, and cis,trans-5 [2-((Z)-2-(5-((E)-(hydroxyimino)methyl)thiophen-2-yl)vinyl)benzonitrile] had comparable reactivation efficacy to the standard oxime HI-6. In silico analysis and molecular docking studies connected the kinetic data to the structural features of these oximes, and confirmed their productive interactions with the active site of the cyclosarin-inhibited BChE. Based on inhibition and reactivation and their ADMET properties regarding lipophilicity, CNS activity, and hepatotoxicity, these compounds could be considered for further development of CNS-active reactivators in OP poisoning as well as cholinesterase-targeted therapeutics in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Chemotoxicity and Associated Risk Factors in Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Han Claire , Ning Xia , Burd Christin E , Spakowicz Daniel J , Tounkara Fode , Kalady Matthew F , Noonan Anne M , McCabe Susan , Von Ah Diane
Published: May 2024

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients experienced multiple chemotoxicity affecting treatment compliance, survival, and quality of life (QOL). Prior research shows clinician-reported chemotoxicity (i.e., grading scales or diagnostic codes) predicts rehospitalization and cancer survival. However, a comprehensive synthesis of clinician-reported chemotoxicity is still lacking. Objectives: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the chemotoxicity's prevalence and risk factors in CRC. Methods: A systematic search from 2009 to 2024 yielded 30 studies for review, with 25 included in the meta-analysis. Results: Pooled prevalences of overall, non-hematological, and hematological moderate-to-severe toxicities were 45.7%, 39.2%, and 25.3%, respectively. The most common clinician-reported chemotoxicities were gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity (22.9%) and neuropathy or neutropenia (17.9%). Significant risk factors at baseline were malnutritional status, frailty, impaired immune or hepato-renal functions, short telomere lengths, low gut lactobacillus levels, age, female sex, aggressive chemotherapy, and low QOL. Age was associated with neutropenia (β: -1.44) and GI toxicity (β:1.85) (Ps 65 y.o.) had higher prevalences of overall (OR: 1.14) and GI (OR: 1.65) toxicities, but a lower prevalence of neutropenia (OR: 0.65) than younger adults (Ps
Food Grinding Behavior: A Review of Causality and Influential Factors
Authors: Tang Hao , Ge Wei-Wei , Wei Wan-Hong , Yang Sheng-Mei , Dai Xin
Published: May 2024

Food waste is a common issue arising from grinding of food by experimental animals, leading to excessive food scraps falling into cages. In the wild, animals grind food by gnawing vegetation and seeds, potentially damaging the ecological environment. However, limited ecology studies have focused on food grinding behavior since the last century, with even fewer on rodent food grinding, particularly recently. Although food grinding function is partially understood, biological purposes remain under-investigated and driving factors unclear. This review aims to explain potential causes of animal food grinding, identify influencing factors, and discuss contexts and limitations. Specifically, we emphasize recent progress on gut microbiota significance for food grinding. Moreover, we show abnormal food grinding is determined by degree of excess normal behavior, emphasizing food grinding is not meaningless. Findings from this review promote comprehensive research on the myriad factors, multifaceted roles, and intricate evolution underlying food grinding behavior, benefiting laboratory animal husbandry and ecological environment protection, and identifying potential physiological benefits yet undiscovered.
Acessibilidade para o ingresso e permanência do estudante surdo no Ensino superior: apresentação de produto educacional
Authors: Ferreira Eloir da Silva , Miranda Andréa da Silva
Published: May 2024

A Língua Brasileira de Sinais (LIBRAS) é o meio legal de comunicação e expressão da comunidade surda no Brasil. Sabendo disso, o poder público, por meio das instituições de ensino, deve garantir que o acesso à informação dessas pessoas não fique comprometido pela ausência de materiais informativos em sua língua e que elas recebam as informações necessárias tanto para o ingresso como para sua permanência no ambiente escolar até a conclusão de seus cursos, seja na educação básica ou no ensino superior, sem barreiras comunicacionais que as impeçam de prosseguir seus estudos. O presente artigo tem o objetivo de apresentar o produto educacional intitulado “Inclusão e Acessibilidade para o Estudante Surdo no Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará (IFPA)”. Trata-se de uma cartilha acessível em Libras, com informações que visam facilitar o entendimento de pessoas surdas sobre as modalidades de cursos, formas de oferta e de ingresso ao Instituto Federal do Pará (IFPA) e sobre o atendimento para o estudante surdo realizado pelo Núcleo de Atendimento às Pessoas com Necessidades Educacionais Específicas (NAPNE) do referido instituto. Para a construção desse material foi realizada pesquisa documental nos principais documentos da instituição, a fim de nos apropriarmos daquilo que o IFPA oferta aos estudantes surdos dentro dos documentos que norteiam sua política de acessibilidade. O produto educacional elaborado apresenta-se como uma excelente ferramenta para orientar os estudantes surdos sobre como ingressar nesta instituição de ensino, contribuindo para que eles acessem informações relevantes que poderão auxiliar o seu processo de formação educacional.
Las prácticas de la enseñanza en escuelas de islas: contribuciones a la formación docente inicial de Educación Física en la Universidad Nacional de Hurlingham
Authors: Ruiz Mariel , Moreno Manuel , Trussi Lucas Maximiliano
Published: May 2024

El escrito aborda el análisis de las consultas realizadas a estudiantes de segundo y tercer años del Profesorado Universitario de Educación Física de la Universidad Nacional de Hurlingham que participaron en prácticas de la enseñanza en escuelas de islas de San Fernando y Martín García en contexto de la pospandemia (2021-2022). El análisis evidenció cuatro aspectos emergentes que aportan a la construcción del rol docente en la experiencia formativa transitada: 1) el compromiso y la responsabilidad pedagógica; 2) la potencialidad de la ‘diferencia’, 3) la emocionalidad en el rol docente y 4) la experiencia con ‘otros’ y ‘desde’ el cuerpo. Sostenemos que los aspectos mencionados contribuyen a las prácticas de la enseñanza en la formación docente, siempre implicadas en realidades que interpelan su continua mutación.
Pense no ensino da educação física no nível médio a partir da formação universitária
Authors: Lanza Matías
Published: May 2024

Este artigo enfoca os processos reflexivos de estudantes de Educação Física no curso da disciplina Observação e Práticas Didáticas em Educação Física II da Faculdade de Educação Física da Faculdade de Ciências Humanas e da Educação da Universidade Nacional de La Plata, Argentina (2020-2021).Propôs-se identificar e distinguir os componentes da prática que os alunos consideram objeto dos seus processos reflexivos no ensino da Educação Física nas escolas secundárias; recuperar e interpretar os significados que os estudantes praticantes atribuem aos processos reflexivos durante suas práticas docentes na graduação; reconhecer e comparar as características e particularidades que os processos reflexivos adquirem consoante sejam realizados para a ação, na ação ou na ação. Identificou-se que os alunos refletem principalmente sobre elementos prescritivos, elementos biográficos, elementos formativos e elementos intuitivos.
Deep Learning-Based Computer-Aided Diagnosis of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Humeral Capitellum Using Ultrasound Images
Authors: Takatsuji Kenta , Kida Yoshikazu , Sasaki Kenta , Fujita Daisuke , Kobayashi Yusuke , Sukenari Tsuyoshi , Kotoura Yoshihiro , Minami Masataka , Kobashi Syoji , Takahashi Kenji
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ultrasonography is used to diagnose osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the humerus; however, its reliability depends on the technical proficiency of the examiner. Recently, computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) using deep learning has been applied in the field of medical science, and high diagnostic accuracy has been reported. We aimed to develop a deep learning-based CAD system for OCD detection on ultrasound images and to evaluate the accuracy of OCD detection using the CAD system.

Methods:

The CAD process comprises 2 steps: humeral capitellum detection using an object-detection algorithm and OCD classification using an image classification network. Four-directional ultrasound images of the elbow of the throwing arm of 196 baseball players (mean age, 11.2 years), including 104 players with normal findings and 92 with OCD, were used for training and validation. An external dataset of 20 baseball players (10 with normal findings and 10 with OCD) was used to evaluate the accuracy of the CAD system. A confusion matrix and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the system.

Results:

Clinical evaluation using the external dataset resulted in high AUCs in all 4 directions: 0.969 for the anterior long axis, 0.966 for the anterior short axis, 0.996 for the posterior long axis, and 0.993 for the posterior short axis. The accuracy of OCD detection thus exceeded 0.9 in all 4 directions.

Conclusions:

We propose a deep learning-based CAD system to detect OCD lesions on ultrasound images. The CAD system achieved high accuracy in all 4 directions of the elbow. This CAD system with a deep learning model may be useful for OCD screening during medical checkups to reduce the probability of missing an OCD lesion.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Unveiling Key Factors and Solutions to Boost MSME Food Productivity
Authors: Ismoyo Kafa Bayu , Sriyono Sriyono
Published: May 2024

Sidoarjo, known as Indonesia's MSME city, faces productivity challenges in its MSME food cluster due to factors like motivation, salary, competency, facilities, legality, health, and marketing. This study uses a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data, to identify these issues. A fishbone diagram was created with seven variables, and data were collected from 50 MSME actors through questionnaires and interviews. Analysis using SPSS revealed that employee salaries had the most significant impact on productivity, along with issues in operational management, facilities, supply chains, and digital marketing. The study underscores the need for better management, competitive salaries, and enhanced marketing strategies to boost productivity in Sidoarjo's MSME food sector. Highlights: Factors Identified: Salary, competency, and facilities affect MSME food cluster productivity. Data Analysis: Used fishbone diagrams and SPSS to analyze MSME data. Recommendations: Improve management, salaries, and digital marketing for better productivity. Keywords: MSME, productivity, food cluster, fishbone diagram, SPSS
Empowering Communities Globally through Revolutionary Grain Processing
Authors: Irawan Yuriza Rahayu , Husna Rofiatul , Dewi Linda Intania , Sischasari Dyah , Istiningrum Dyah
Published: May 2024

This research investigates economic empowerment strategies in Kedungpeluk village, Sidoarjo, focusing on processing grain yields to enhance local livelihoods. Utilizing a qualitative method based on literature review, the study identifies challenges and proposes solutions for operators of grain processing enterprises. Results indicate that processing excess grain into ready-to-eat products like abon, dendeng, and rempeyek udang can prevent spoilage and increase market value. The use of modern equipment and independent tambak cultivation is recommended to streamline production and increase self-reliance. The study suggests that these strategies, along with online marketing and product diversification like Korean food, can significantly improve local economic conditions. Collaboration with the government and utilization of digital marketing channels are also highlighted as essential for enhancing market share and economic empowerment in the community.
Highlights:

Value Addition: Process grain into high-value products to prevent spoilage.
Self-Reliance: Use modern equipment for efficient, independent production.
Market Expansion: Diversify products, employ online marketing for economic growth.

Keywords: Economic empowerment, Grain processing, Livelihood enhancement, Local development, Community resilience
Snow-impacted National Inventory of Dams by GAGESII Watershed
Authors: Wyatt Reis , Jeremy Giovando , Travis Dahl
Published: May 2024

This Engineering Research and Development Center (ERDC) Technical Note describes the development of a set of locations within the contiguous United States (CONUS) where snowmelt is a component of the annual streamflow. The locations are selected from the US Geological Survey (USGS) Geospatial Attributes of Gages for Evaluating Streamflow II (GAGESII) and National Inventory of Dams (NID) data sets. The 30-year normal snow regimes were used to identify all GAGESII watersheds that have any of the basin delineated as transitional (rain/snow), snow dominated, or perennial snow zones. NID dams that are within snow affected GAGESII watersheds are included in the data set. The purpose of this ERDC Technical Note is to describe the development of a comprehensive data set of CONUS GAGESII and dam infrastructure affected by snow changing regimes.