bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Result on Optimum Seed Generation Bandwidth for Object-Based Image Segmentation (OBIS) of Porphyritic Igneous Thin Sections
Authors: Widjaya Victoria Vania Blanca , Nugroho Rio Priandri , Roviansah Mohamad
Published: February 2024

Crystal size distribution (CSD) analysis is one of many methods for studying the crystallization history of magma. It involves labor-intensive digitation of all crystals, which may prolong the processing of large data sets. This study presents a preliminary result of Object-Based Image Segmentation (OBIS) as a semi-automatic approach in crystal digitation. Five data sets containing 9 photomicrographs of porphyritic igneous rock thin sections were processed using SAGA GIS. The procedure produced an optimum bandwidth equation of y = 38.455 ln(x) + 114, where x is the average size of sampled crystal in mm. Segmentation tests on another sample using the formula returned good and consistent results with important notes on sensitivity to textures which may result in crystal segment separation, such as fractures, veins, and sieve, as well as the inability to separate all groundmass crystals. Even though it shows good results, this formula only applies where the pixel-to-length conversion factor of 562.2 pixel/mm.
Keywords: OBIS, SAGA GIS, Optimum bandwidth, Photomicrograph, Porphyritic igneous rock thin section.
Interactions Between Able-Bodied and Disabled Pupils in Inclusive Public Elementary School in Togo
Authors: Kadanga Rita , Tchable Boussanlègue
Published: February 2024

The aim of this research was to examine the interactions between teachers and pupils with disabilities in an inclusive school environment in Togo's public elementary school (EPP). The field survey covered 20 EPPs through 27 observations of inclusive classrooms and over a hundred interviews with teachers and children with disabilities (CWD). The field data show that relations between the two categories of pupils are cordial, given that able-bodied children do not mind sitting on the same bench in class, playing or eating with their disabled classmates.
Eğitimin Toplumsal Yapının Değişimi Üzerine Etkisinin Araştırmacı Bir Bakış Açısından İncelenmesi
Authors: ÇARKIT Ömer , ÇARKIT Hasan , ÇARKIT Elif , GÜZELÇOBAN Şirin , ÇARKIT Taner , ÇARKIT  DÖNER Merve
Published: February 2024

Bireysel farklılıklarla başlayan değişimler daha sonra köklü etkileşimlere yani toplumsal değişimlere sebebiyet vermeye başlamıştır. İlkçağlardan itibaren bulunduğu sürece göre farklı değişimlere sebep olan etkileşimler 21. yüzyılda daha popüler ve dikkate değer bir hal almaya başlamıştır. Değişim kavramı, önceden varlığı kabul edilen bir yargı konumundayken artık zorunlu bir ihtiyaç olarak benimsenmeye başlamıştır. Evrim prensibine benzer şekilde, değişime ayak uyduramayan bireyler, şirketler, kurumlar ve toplumlar çağın gerisinde kalmaktadır. Bireysel farklılaşmadan doğan toplumsal değişim kavramı, toplumu oluşturan en küçük yapıtaşına kadar etkili olan bir süreci teşkil etmektedir. Bu değişim sürecinde etkili olan en temel öge ise eğitim kavramıdır. Eğitim, toplumu oluşturan bütün yapılarla bağlantılıdır. Doğal olarak, bu yapılarda gerçekleşecek olan en ufak bir değişimlerle de bağlantısı inkar edilemez durumdadır. Bu çalışmada eğitimin toplumsal değişimdeki rolü, etkileri ve sonuçları incelenmektedir. Hedeflenen ana öge, değişim kavramının eğitim kavramıyla olan ilişkisinin ortaya konulmasıdır.
Vegan Bir Dünya
Authors: BULUT Bahar , ERKOL Mehmet
Published: February 2024

İnsanların birbirleri ile kurdukları ilişkinin mahiyeti kadar diğer varlıklarla da kurdukları ilişki biçimi tarih boyunca tartışılmıştır. Özellikle insan ile hayvan arasındaki ilişkinin nasıl kurulacağı kafaları meşgul etmiş, birbirinden farklı öneriler seslendirilmiştir. Yüklerini taşımaktan beslenmelerine kadar hayatın her alanında hayvanlarla iç içe olan insanlar, onların statüsünü belirlemeye çalışmışlardır. Özellikle son zamanlarda beslenme (veganlık) üzerine tartışmaların arttığı görülmüştür. Bu nedenle Leenaert'in Vegan Bir Dünya adlı kitabı incelenmeye çalışılmıştır.
Kazak Altayı'nın Tunç Çağında Kalay Madenciliği ve Seyma-Turbino Kültürü
Authors: KUTLU Leila
Published: February 2024

Erken Devir Türk Kültürü’nde madenciliğin sahip olduğu büyük önem tartışılmaz şekilde madencilik tarihi yönünden Orta Asya’nın araştırılmasını gerekli kılmaktadır. Bu noktada Altaylar en dikkat çekici potansiyele sahip coğrafyaların başında gelmektedir. Özellikle Kazak Altay’ında bulunan zengin ve ender kalay yatakları Tunç Madenciliği ve Tunç kullanımının Avrasya boyunca yayılımı açısından önemli veriler sunmaktadır. Son yıllarda yapılan tunç alet ve silahlara dair analizler Avrasya boyunca Kalba ve Narım Sıradağlarından çıkarılan kalayın yaygın kullanıldığını ortaya koymuştur. Bu durum tunç alet ve silahlar üzerinden tanımlanan Seyma-Turbino Kültürü ile olan ilişkinin varlığına işaret etmektedir. Seyma-Turbino Kültürü’ne ait buluntuların analiz ve tarihlendirmeleri Avrasya için bilinen kronolojinin güncellenmesi gerektiğini ortaya koymaktadır. Bu çalışma Kazak Altayı’nın zengin kalay yatakları nedeniyle Kalaylı Tunç Madenciliğinin ortaya çıkışı ve gelişiminde üstlendiği büyük rolü açıklığa kavuşturmayı amaçlamaktadır.
A Case of Arteriovenous Malformation in the External Auditory Canal
Authors: Choi Soo Jeong , Lee Juhyun , Sung You-Na , Im Gi Jung
Published: February 2024

Benign vascular tumors are relatively common in the head and neck region, but are rarely found in the ear. Among vascular tumors, infantile hemangioma stands as the prevailing entity, characterized by a rapid initial proliferation of endothelial cells, succeeded by a gradual regression over the course of several years. In contrast, arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a less common phenomenon, originating from peripheral vascular anomalies during embryogenesis, and it does not undergo spontaneous regression. Specifically, the occurrence of AVM within the external auditory canal are exceedingly uncommon. Here, we describe a case of a 49-year-old male patient who had a mass incidentally discovered in the external auditory canal, but refused initial treatment. He later returned as the mass enlarged. This case could have been clinically misdiagnosed as a hemangioma, but was ultimately diagnosed pathologically as an AVM.
As repercussões ocupacionais de indivíduos LGBTQIAP+ após assumir-se: Uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Souza Ingrid Naira Melo de , Silva Juliane da Costa , Braga Matheus da Costa , Santos Marcele Jamily do Nascimento , David Thaíssa Cristina Magalhães , Borges Viviane Magno , Botelho Emerson Jhony Cruz , Khayat André Salim , Khayat Bruna Cláudia Meireles
Published: February 2024

Introdução: O ato de se identificar como uma pessoa LGBTQIAP+ ainda é lido como uma transgressão da heteronormatividade, pois a heterossexualidade é concebida socialmente como natural, enquanto as sexualidades divergentes são tidas como anormais. Desse modo, infere-se que o ator de se assumir LGBTQIAP+ gera repercussões ocupacionais nos mais diversos âmbitos. Objetivo: o estudo objetivou identificar por meio de uma revisão da literatura quais são as repercussões ocupacionais advindas após o ato de assumir-se como pessoa LGBTQIAP+ e quais impactos são provocados em sua vida. Método: O estudo se caracteriza como uma revisão bibliográfica. A pesquisa foi mediada pelos Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DeCS). Foram selecionados estudos publicados nos últimos 5 anos que tratavam da população LGBTQIAP+. Resultados: De 206 artigos, 13 foram selecionados. A partir da análise dos artigos, foi identificado que as repercussões ocupacionais em indivíduos LGBTQIAP+ após assumir-se estão relacionadas ao trabalho, saúde psicossocial, acessibilidade e asseguramento de direitos civis.  Conclusão: A população LGBTQIAP+ ainda é alvo de diversos preconceitos e estigmas, que comumente geram injustiças ocupacionais com esse público. O ato de se reconhecer e se assumir LGBTQIAP+ atinge um amplo espectro de ocupações, de forma negativa majoritariamente. Contudo, torna-se imprescindível a elaboração de mais estudos sobre o cuidado com essa população, para que sejam feitas melhorias em políticas públicas já existentes, garantindo maior seguridade e qualidade de vida.
Nanobody-drug conjugates to deliver drugs into target cells
Authors:   , Pronk Sebas Daniël
Published: February 2024

In current medical practice, each day many patients receive drugs for a variety of diseases. However, a recurrent challenge is the non-specific nature of many drugs. This often leads to well-known adverse effects such as nausea, hair loss, compromised immune function, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. In this context, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have been developed to target drugs specifically to target cells. Although ADCs are successfully used in the clinic, they still come with severe and dose-limiting side effects. Recently, the concept of nanobody-drug conjugates (NDCs) emerged as a promising approach to achieve targeted drug delivery. NDCs hold the potential to mediate the interaction with the target cells to direct therapeutic agents specifically to designated cells. These NDCs consist of three essential components: (1) the nanobody serving as a carrier for drug delivery specifically to the target site, (2) the drug itself, effective upon successful nanobody-mediated delivery, and (3) the linker that connects the nanobody and the drug, enabling controlled drug release upon reaching the target site. This thesis focused on the development of NDCs for intracellular drug delivery. More specifically, we investigated the effect of the nanobody format on internalization kinetics and NDC cross-reactivity, the impact of internalization kinetics on intracellular drug delivery using NDCs, and the use of different linkers and drugs that can be employed in NDCs.
Religious-Based Talent Management Through the Expertise of Foster Guardians at Pesantren
Authors: Abdullah Abdullah , Kadi Titi , Ula Nifliya
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui manajemen talenta berbasis religius melalui kepiawaian Wali Asuh Pondok Pesantren Nurul Jadid dalam meningkatkan kualitas intelektual dan religius santri-santri untuk mewujudkan pesantren yang mempunyai keunggulan dibidang akademik maupun dibidang keagamaan dan sosial kemasyarakatan. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif jenis studi kasus. Pengumpulan data penelitian dilakukan dengan observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada santri yang bertalenta religius melalui kepiawaian Wali Asuh Pondok Pesantren Nurul Jadid. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dalam upaya meningkatkan talenta santri berbasis religius melalui kepiawaian Wali Asuh Pondok Pesantren Nurul Jadid ialah dengan melalui pendekatan secara personal approach, sharing, pembiasaan dengan melembagakan program tersebut dijadikan program rutinitas. Sehingga hal tersebut pesantren dapat berkembang melalui santri yang bertalenta religius melalui kepiawaian Wali Asuh.
Enhancing Boarding School Management through Organizational Psychology Education
Authors: Zuhaery Muhammad , Badrudin Badrudin
Published: February 2024

This research aims to analyze organizational psychology's role in managing Islamic boarding schools. This qualitative research identifies organizational psychology's role in Islamic boarding school management by exploring several critical psychological aspects. The data sources used are primary data sources and secondary data sources. The data collection techniques are through interviews, observation, and documentation. Data analysis was done through data reduction, display, and conclusion. The results of the research are that the role of organizational psychology in the management of the Pesantren Al-Iman Muntilan, namely increasing student motivation and teacher performance, assisting in effective classroom management, increasing student involvement and participation, improving student and teacher welfare, helping leadership effectiveness, conflict management, and effective communication. By applying organizational psychology principles, Islamic boarding schools can improve the quality of the education they offer. This will positively impact students' achievements and the reputation of Islamic boarding schools as superior educational institutions.
Bibliometric Analysis: Developments in Research on Human Resource Management in Higher Education Based on the Google Scholar Database
Authors: Kartakusumah Berliana , Kholik Abdul , Lathifah Zahra Khsunul , Hamurdani Hamurdani , Noviyanti Annisa
Published: February 2024

This research aims to analyze the development of research on human resource management in higher education based on the Google Scholar database. It can provide a reference point for further research on related topics. This research method uses bibliometric analysis; data collection is carried out based on international publication data from the Google Scholar database from 2015-2022 using the Publish or Perish tool, and the data analysis process is carried out using the VOSviewer tool. The research results show that the distribution of journal articles on human resource management related to higher education in the Google Scholar database from 2015-2022 is 999 journals, and the development of journal publications in the Google Scholar database has decreased. This occurred in 2015 as the highest number of journal publications, namely 222 (22%), while the fewest journal publications occurred in 2022, namely 19 publications (2%). Through density visualization, the terms "Human Resource Management" and "University" are the most frequently used research topics. With the overlay visualization, "Human Resource Management" was mainly used as a research topic around 2017, while the term University was used as a research topic around 2018. Based on this, further research on human resource management can be developed by referring to others that still need to be done.
Inspirational Principal: Building A Culture of Organization and Spiritual Communication
Authors: Suryahim Iim , Mabruroh Mabruroh , Supriadi Supriadi
Published: February 2024

Organizational culture is understood as a shared perception adopted by members of an organization, namely a system of shared meaning. A developing organizational culture is critical to support their growth and development in early childhood education. This research aims to understand the role of inspirational school principals in shaping organizational culture and spiritual communication among students. The research was conducted at an early childhood education institution, RA Al-Azhar Pandean Paiton Probolinggo. The research design used was qualitative, with steps involving observation, requesting permission, collecting data from schools, and interviews. The primary data source is field research through interviews with school principals and teachers. Meanwhile, secondary data comes from literature relevant to the identified problems. Data collection methods include interviews, observation, and documentation. The research results show inspirational school principals are essential in shaping organizational culture and spiritual communication. This is achieved through several steps, such as forming teamwork, routine spiritual activities, environmental participation, and program evaluation. Implementing this program implies that an organizational culture that is instilled from an early age can shape the character of students into good individuals with spiritual nuances.
Implementation of Excellence Public Relations and Coordinated Management of Meaning in the Socialization of the Four Main Pillars of SABar School Banyumas
Authors: Turistiati Ade Tuti , Nan Kinasih Eyora Jasmine , Nurcandrani Prita Suci
Published: February 2024

SABar School (Sekolah Alam Baturraden) applies four main pillars namely the pillars of morals, logic, leadership, and entrepreneurship in the student learning process. However, the view of the Banyumas community is that SABar School is only a school that involves more playing than learning activities. Parents are worried that sending their children to SABar School will be left behind in academics. This research aims to analyze the implementation of excellence in public relations and coordinated management of meaning towards the socialization of the four main pillars of SABar School. This research uses a qualitative descriptive research method with data collection techniques of observation and in-depth interviews with ten informants, supported by secondary data through literature studies. The research shows that SABar School's role in socializing activities on the four main pillars implements eight of the ten premises of public relations excellence. Two premises that have not been implemented are the integration premise because SABar School does not yet have a dedicated PR division and the independence premise. The management function of PR is still one with other management. Meanwhile, the results of coordinated management of meaning on the four main pillars show that SABar School has achieved a level of coordination.
Bedouins choice behavior toward the desalinated water in Halaib, Egypt
Authors:   Department of Social Studies, Socio-Economic Division, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt, Tohamy Hussain M. , Diab Ahmed M. ,   Department of Rural Sociology and Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, New Valley University, Kharga 72511, Egypt., Diab Hend M. ,   Department of Rural Sociology & Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566 Egypt.
Published: February 2024

Insufficiency of water is a growing global problem challenging sustainable development due to its limited water resources. This research aimed to 1) know about Bedouins' sources and uses of water in the Halaib study's area, 2) explore Bedouins’ choice behavior towards desalinated water using consumption value theory, 3) determine factors related to Bedouins’ choice behavior, and 4) determine the reasons for water contamination and propose solutions. Data were collected from a sample of 153 Bedouins through personal interviews using a questionnaire form in November 2021. Data were analyzed and presented using frequency, mean, and step-wise regression analysis. The reliability of the questionnaire (0.864) was estimated by Cronbach’s alpha. The results showed that desalinated water was the most popular clean water source in the examined area and that it was crucial for providing people with safe water. All Bedouins (100%) prefer using desalinated water for cleaning, animal watering, and irrigation. The mean score of respondents’ perception of function value price is 5.78 (96.3% of the total score); the social value is 4.78 (79.67%); the function value quality is 4.57 (76.17%); and the emotional value is 4.49 (74.83%). The quality of the function value explains about 59.1% of the variance in Bedouins' choice behavior towards desalinated water, while the social value accounts for about 12.1% and the emotional value accounts for about 3.6%. There was sufficient evidence to disprove H4, H6, and H7. The results were used to provide suggestions for further research.
Advancing Die Design and Optimization through the Combination Approach:
A Focus on Spring-back Compensation
Authors: Anggono Agus Dwi , Siswanto Waluyo Adi , Omar Badrul , Yulianto Agus
Published: February 2024

This study explores the geometrical deviations that occur in cold stamping, which are caused by the spring-back effects in elastic metals after forming. The primary aim is to introduce and assess the Combination Approach. This approach seamlessly integrates the Displacement Adjustment and Spring Forward methods for die compensation. This multi-stage process meticulously corrects dimensional errors and effectively reduces spring back through iterative processes. Using the NUMISHEET model, numerical simulations have shown a significant reduction in spring back errors, with up to a 55% reduction achieved with optimized die surfaces after five iterations. The proposed Combination Approach improves the accuracy of die design and contributes significantly to the stamping industry by incorporating established techniques within finite element software. This research broadens the scope of die compensation strategies, creating new opportunities for achieving precise die design in stamping.
Network Building Capabilities for a Sustainable and Circular Economy
Authors: Narayana Ananta , Verma Utkarsh Kumar , Vijayvargy Lokesh , Sahoo Amarendra , Shastri Rajesh Kumar
Published: February 2024

This research introduces a novel integrated model that affiliates the innovative capacity of circular start-ups, as seen through their network-building capabilities, with the influential attribute of top management support as outlined in the T-O-E theory. The investigation employs a quantitative research methodology based on a random sampling technique for the entire research population. The structural equation model, utilizing SMARTPLS, is used on a dataset comprising 231 manufacturing-based circular start-ups and their franchises in India. The findings reveal significant direct and indirect relationships between network-building capabilities and the innovation function of circular start-ups. The study highlights the pivotal role of top management support, following the T-O-E framework, as a complete mediator between network-building capabilities and organizational innovativeness. This inquiry establishes that effective networking and other factors confer a competitive edge upon firms. Furthermore, it contributes to the literature on the circular economy within emerging markets, offering insights applicable across various sectors like IT, hospitality, aviation, pharmaceuticals, and more. The study's implications extend to future researchers and policymakers, advocating for adopting a multi-level perspective to foster and ensure the innovativeness of circular start-ups in diverse industries.
A New Approach to Design of Cost-Efficient Reversible Quantum Dual-Full Adder and Subtractor
Authors: Maity Heranmoy , Chatterjee Mousam , Biswas Susmita , Bhowmik Aritra , Kaur Bineet , Singh Ashish Kumar , Kundu Parna , Samanta Jagannath
Published: February 2024

This paper proposed the design and development of reversible cost-efficient innovative quantum dual-full adder and subtractor or QD-FAS circuit using quantum gate. The proposed circuit can be used as full adder and full subtractor simultaneously, which is designed using double Peres gate or DPG and Feynman gate or FG. The quantum cost, garbage output and constant input of the QD-FAS is 8, 1 and 1. Which is better w.r.t previously reported work. The QD-FAS circuit, as proposed, includes shared sum and difference terminals, as well as a carry-out and a borrow output terminal. Notably, this innovation showcases a remarkable 27.27% reduction in quantum cost. The improvement in garbage output is even more striking, showing a 50% enhancement. When assessing the overall advancement in quantum cost, it falls within the range of 27.27% to 66.66%. To confirm the viability of this design, extensive testing is carried out using the IBM Qiskit simulator. This design holds significant importance in a variety of applications, including quantum computing, cryptography, and the realm of reversible Arithmetic Logic Units (ALU).
Digital art work and AI: a new paradigm for work in the contemporary art sector in China
Authors: Duester Emma
Published: February 2024

This paper explores a paradigm shift in work culture in the contemporary art sector due to digital transition and the introduction of AI. New ways of working with AI and digital software are embedded and normalized in everyday Chinese artistic practices. This work includes new forms of creativity and efficiency, yet, simultaneously includes new types of digital labour. This paper conceptualizes this as “digital art work,” which draws attention to the often-overlooked aspects of artists’ work, particularly their everyday artistic practices that increasingly include digital software and AI. What is the role and position of the artist in an environment where digital software and AI are becoming more central in artistic creation? How do artists creatively (mis)use AI? What does this paradigm shift in work culture mean for the future of the artist’s role and the future of the contemporary art sector? This paper draws on 48 semi-structured interviews with visual artists and arts professionals, including painters, sculptors, mixed-media, and internet artists as well as contemporary art gallery owners, museum project directors, curators, and culture policymakers living and working in China during 2023. The findings show how Chinese artists are mastering AI and opening up new spaces for creativity and how the contemporary art sector in China has already transitioned to a new “digital way” in artistic creation. These findings can help to create policy around AI globally and provide solutions for the sustainability of the artist profession and the future of the contemporary art sector.
A case report and systematic literature review: insulin-induced type III hypersensitivity reaction
Authors: Meredith Rebecca R. , Patel Pooja , Huang Polly , Onyenekwu Chinelo Pamela , Rai Herleen , Tversky Jody , Alvarez-Arango Santiago
Published: February 2024

Insulin-induced type III hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) are exceedingly rare and pose complex diagnostic and management challenges. We describe a case of a 43-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM), severe insulin resistance, and subcutaneous nodules at injection sites, accompanied by elevated anti-insulin IgG autoantibodies. Treatment involved therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) as bridge therapy, followed by long-term immunosuppression, which reduced autoantibody levels and improved insulin tolerance. Given the limited treatment guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive literature review, identifying 16 similar cases. Most patients were females with a median age of 36.5 years; 63% had type 1 DM, and 44% had concurrent insulin resistance (56% with elevated autoantibodies). Treatment approaches varied, with glucocorticoids used in 67% of cases. Patients with type 1 DM were less responsive to steroids than those with type 2 DM, and had a more severe course. Of those patients with severe disease necessitating immunosuppression, 66% had poor responses or experienced relapses. The underlying mechanism of insulin-induced type III HSRs remains poorly understood. Immunosuppressive therapy reduces anti-insulin IgG autoantibodies, leading to short-term clinical improvement and improved insulin resistance, emphasizing their crucial role in the condition. However, the long-term efficacy of immunosuppression remains uncertain and necessitates continuous evaluation and further research.
Resorbable conductive materials for optimally interfacing medical devices with the living
Authors: Sacchi Marta , Sauter-Starace Fabien , Mailley Pascal , Texier Isabelle
Published: February 2024

Implantable and wearable bioelectronic systems are arising growing interest in the medical field. Linking the microelectronic (electronic conductivity) and biological (ionic conductivity) worlds, the biocompatible conductive materials at the electrode/tissue interface are key components in these systems. We herein focus more particularly on resorbable bioelectronic systems, which can safely degrade in the biological environment once they have completed their purpose, namely, stimulating or sensing biological activity in the tissues. Resorbable conductive materials are also explored in the fields of tissue engineering and 3D cell culture. After a short description of polymer-based substrates and scaffolds, and resorbable electrical conductors, we review how they can be combined to design resorbable conductive materials. Although these materials are still emerging, various medical and biomedical applications are already taking shape that can profoundly modify post-operative and wound healing follow-up. Future challenges and perspectives in the field are proposed.
Analytical examination of dynamic elements in modern architectural facades for advanced structural aesthetics
Authors: Ezz Mohamed Salah , Odah Essam , Baharetha Saleh , Al Sayed Abd Al-Kader A. , Salem Doaa A. H.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The visual appeal and distinctiveness of a building’s external appearance can be enhanced by incorporating aesthetically pleasing and structurally coherent components, such as diagrids and external bracings. These components not only contribute to the building’s visual appeal but also communicate its structural logic. The aim of this research is to investigate how architectural surfaces can contribute to a building’s urban identity by integrating visually appealing and structurally sound structural systems.

Methods: The research focuses on analyzing and understanding the formal structure, generating diverse patterns, and assessing their impact on stability. The goal is to develop architectural surface components that are both aesthetically pleasing and proficient in their application. The study involves analyzing architectural projects that address surfaces in alignment with structural connections and various connecting and modulating mechanisms. Significant architectural achievements from different historical periods were examined to construct a comprehensive knowledge framework.

Results: The research conducted a detailed analytical and descriptive investigation into the intricate mechanisms of form surfaces within Modernity and Deconstruction architecture and their impact on structural relationships. The study revealed that by integrating structural connections and modulating mechanisms, it is possible to create architectural surface components that enhance a building’s visual appeal, artistic expression, and urban identity while maintaining structural stability and balance.

Conclusion: The research concludes that integrating structural connections and modulating mechanisms into architectural surface components can significantly enhance a building’s visual appeal, artistic expression, and urban identity. By developing aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound elements, such as diagrids and external bracings, architects can create buildings that not only communicate their structural logic but also contribute to the overall urban fabric. This study provides valuable insights for architects and designers seeking to enhance the visual and structural qualities of their buildings.
Facilitating patient portal engagement: a channel expansion and behavior change wheel perspective
Authors: Cao Weidan , Cao Xiaohui
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Given the low patient portal adoption rates, the contradictory findings on the relationship between patient-provider communication and patient portal use, and the unclear mechanism of why doctor-patient communication might facilitate portal use as indicated in some existing studies, patient portal engagement warrants further examination.

Methods

Guided by the behavior change wheel framework and the channel expansion theory, this study examined the facilitators of patient portal engagement and tested the relationship between the facilitators (e.g., social opportunity and psychological capability) through analyzing the HINTS national survey data (N = 1251).

Results

We found that patient portal access (a physical opportunity) and physician advocacy (a social opportunity) were two significant predictors of portal engagement while educational attainment was not. We did not find any direct correlation between patient-centered communication (PCC) and patient portal engagement, but instead, found a significant indirect relationship between the two.

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to employ the behavior change wheel and channel expansion theory to explain patient portal engagement. Theoretically, our study extended the behavior change theory by further explaining the relationship between the key components (e.g., capability, opportunity) of behavior change. Practical strategies to increase patient portal engagement were proposed.
Heart rhythm in vitro: measuring stem cell-derived pacemaker cells on microelectrode arrays
Authors: Kussauer Sophie , Dilk Patrick , Elleisy Moustafa , Michaelis Claudia , Lichtwark Sarina , Rimmbach Christian , David Robert , Jung Julia
Published: February 2024

Background

Cardiac arrhythmias have markedly increased in recent decades, highlighting the urgent need for appropriate test systems to evaluate the efficacy and safety of new pharmaceuticals and the potential side effects of established drugs.

Methods

The Microelectrode Array (MEA) system may be a suitable option, as it provides both real-time and non-invasive monitoring of cellular networks of spontaneously active cells. However, there is currently no commercially available cell source to apply this technology in the context of the cardiac conduction system (CCS). In response to this problem, our group has previously developed a protocol for the generation of pure functional cardiac pacemaker cells from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). In addition, we compared the hanging drop method, which was previously utilized, with spherical plate-derived embryoid bodies (EBs) and the pacemaker cells that are differentiated from these.

Results

We described the application of these pacemaker cells on the MEA platform, which required a number of crucial optimization steps in terms of coating, dissociation, and cell density. As a result, we were able to generate a monolayer of pure pacemaker cells on an MEA surface that is viable and electromechanically active for weeks. Furthermore, we introduced spherical plates as a convenient and scalable method to be applied for the production of induced sinoatrial bodies.

Conclusion

We provide a tool to transfer modeling and analysis of cardiac rhythm diseases to the cell culture dish. Our system allows answering CCS-related queries within a cellular network, both under baseline conditions and post-drug exposure in a reliable and affordable manner. Ultimately, our approach may provide valuable guidance not only for cardiac pacemaker cells but also for the generation of an MEA test platform using other sensitive non-proliferating cell types.
Prognostic value of right ventricular free wall strain in patients with sepsis
Authors: Chen Hongmin , Huang Lei , Xing Boyuan , Gao Yang , Zhang Jie , Zhang Bingyi
Published: February 2024

Background

Right ventricular systolic dysfunction (RVSD) in patients with sepsis is an area of growing interest, but its prognostic significance remains unclear and additional tools are needed to improve our understanding. Right ventricular free wall strain (RV-FWS) is a relatively new parameter to assess RV function. This study aimed to investigate the potential correlation between impaired RV-FWS and prognostic outcomes in patients with sepsis.

Methods

We prospectively assessed right ventricular function in patients with sepsis within the initial 24 h of their hospital admission. RV-FWS, right ventricular global strain (RV-GS), fractional area change (FAC), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) were examined. RVSD was defined as impaired RV-FWS. Moreover, the association between RVSD and 30-day mortality rate was assessed.

Results

This study included 89 patients. Among them, 27 (30.3%) succumbed to their illness within 30 days. The nonsurviving patients demonstrated significantly lower absolute RV-FWS (−19.7% ± 2.4% vs. −21.1% ± 2.1%, P = 0.008) and RV-GS (−17.7% ± 1.2% vs. −18.4% ± 1.4%, P = 0.032) values than the surviving patients. However, TAPSE and FAC values were not significantly different between the two groups. The optimal cutoff values for RV-FWS, RV-GS, FAC, and TAPSE were −19.0%, −17.9%, 36.5%, and 1.55 cm, respectively. Kaplan–Meier survival curves revealed that patients with impaired RV-FWS and RV-GS demonstrated lower 30-day survival rates, and the predictive performance of RV-FWS (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.97, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.85–8.51, P < 0.001) was slightly higher than FAC and TAPSE. However, multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed no association between impaired RV-FWS and mortality outcomes (HR: 1.85, 95% CI: 0.56–6.14, P = 0.316).

Conclusions

Impaired RV-FWS is not associated with short-term mortality outcomes, and RV strain imaging is of limited value in assessing the prognosis of sepsis.
Systems of care for ambulatory management of decompensated heart failure
Authors: Badrish Narotham , Sheifer Stuart , Rosner Carolyn M.
Published: February 2024

Heart failure (HF) represents a worldwide health burden and the annual per patient cost to treat HF in the US is estimated at $24,383, with most of this expense driven by HF related hospitalizations. Decompensated HF is a leading cause for hospital admissions and is associated with an increased risk of subsequent morbidity and mortality. Many hospital admissions for decompensated HF are considered preventable with timely recognition and effective intervention.Systems of care that include interventions to facilitate early recognition, timely and appropriate intervention, intensification of care, and optimization to prevent recurrence can help successfully manage decompensated HF in the ambulatory setting and avoid hospitalization.
Study on the shear and deformation characteristics of geogrid-reinforced gravelly soils based on large-scale triaxial tests
Authors: Liu Jie , Pan Jiadong , Wang Bin , Hu Changtao , Liu Qinli
Published: February 2024

Geogrid reinforcement has a limiting effect on the lateral deformation and thus improves the shear strength of the soil, the overall strength of the soil and the overall stability of the corresponding geotechnical structure. In this study, large-scale triaxial tests without and with geogrid reinforcement were conducted on three typical gravelly soils in Xinjiang using a large-scale triaxial apparatus. The shear strength and deformation characteristics of gravelly soils with different particle shapes and the stress-strain relations, strength characteristics, damage patterns, and reinforcement effects of gravelly soils with and without reinforcement were investigated. Geogrid reinforcement effectively enhances the strength of the soil; the internal friction angle remained relatively constant with and without reinforcement, whereas the cohesive force increased significantly. The reinforcement effects interpreted from the results obtained from the triaxial tests were discovered when a certain deformation or relative displacement with the reinforcement materials of the soil occurred. Under uniform test conditions, the volumetric strain of the samples of gravelly soil with reinforcement significantly decreased with increasing confining pressure, and the difference in volumetric strains with and without reinforcement was greater when the confining pressure was higher. The highlight of this study is its significance in explaining the reinforcement mechanism in gravelly soils and in selecting engineering design parameters.
Immunization against inhibin DNA vaccine as an alternative therapeutic for improving follicle development and reproductive performance in beef cattle
Authors: Meng Jinzhu , Li Qiuye , Xiao Lilin , Liu Weichen , Gao Zhengjie , Gong Lin , Lan Xianyong , Wang Shuilian
Published: February 2024

The objective of the present study was to investigate the potential role of immunization against INH on follicular development, serum reproductive hormone (FSH, E2, and P4) concentrations, and reproductive performance in beef cattle. A total of 196 non-lactating female beef cattle (4-5 years old) with identical calving records (3 records) were immunized with 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 mg [(T1, n = 58), (T2, n = 46), (T3, n = 42) and (T4, n = 36), respectively] of the pcISI plasmid. The control (C) group (n = 14) was immunized with 1.0 mL 0.9% saline. At 21d after primary immunization, all beef cattle were boosted with half of the primary immunization dose. On day 10 after primary immunization, the beef cattle immunized with INH DNA vaccine evidently induced anti-INH antibody except for the T1 group. The T3 group had the greatest P/N value peak among all the groups. The anti-INH antibody positive rates in T2, T3 and T4 groups were significantly higher than that in C and T1 groups. RIA results indicated that serum FSH concentration in T2 group increased markedly on day 45 after booster immunization; the E2 amount in T3 group was significantly increased on day 10 after primary immunization, and the levels of E2 also improved in T2 and T3 groups after booster immunization; the P4 concentration in T2 group was significantly improved on day 21 after primary immunization. Ultrasonography results revealed that the follicles with different diameter sizes were increased, meanwhile, the diameter and growth speed of ovulatory follicle were significantly increased. Furthermore, the rates of estrous, ovulation, conception, and twinning rate were also significantly enhanced. These findings clearly illustrated that INH DNA vaccine was capable of promoting the follicle development, thereby improving the behavioral of estrous and ovulation, eventually leading to an augment in the conception rates and twinning rate of beef cattle.
MicroRNAs in spermatogenesis dysfunction and male infertility: clinical phenotypes, mechanisms and potential diagnostic biomarkers
Authors: Shi Ziyan , Yu Miao , Guo Tingchao , Sui Yu , Tian Zhiying , Ni Xiang , Chen Xinren , Jiang Miao , Jiang Jingyi , Lu Yongping , Lin Meina
Published: February 2024

Infertility affects approximately 10–15% of couples worldwide who are attempting to conceive, with male infertility accounting for 50% of infertility cases. Male infertility is related to various factors such as hormone imbalance, urogenital diseases, environmental factors, and genetic factors. Owing to its relationship with genetic factors, male infertility cannot be diagnosed through routine examination in most cases, and is clinically called ‘idiopathic male infertility.’ Recent studies have provided evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed in a cell-or stage-specific manner during spermatogenesis. This review focuses on the role of miRNAs in male infertility and spermatogenesis. Data were collected from published studies that investigated the effects of miRNAs on spermatogenesis, sperm quality and quantity, fertilization, embryo development, and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Based on the findings of these studies, we summarize the targets of miRNAs and the resulting functional effects that occur due to changes in miRNA expression at various stages of spermatogenesis, including undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, and Sertoli cells (SCs). In addition, we discuss potential markers for diagnosing male infertility and predicting the varicocele grade, surgical outcomes, ART outcomes, and sperm retrieval rates in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA).
[99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT in the initial staging of 227 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer: a 5-year monocentric retrospective study
Authors: Li Bo , Ding Xintao , Duan Lili , Shi Jingqi , Tang Minmin , Zhang Jie , Zhao Zun , Wu Xinyu , Gao Yongju
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT in the initial staging of patients with newly diagnosed PCa.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 227 consecutive patients who underwent [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT imaging for the primary staging of newly diagnosed PCa. The presence and location of PSMA-positive lesions were determined, and the maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) of the primary prostate tumor were also measured. The metastatic findings and SUVmax were stratified according to International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, and D’Amico classification. Furthermore, the [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT findings were compared to the histopathological findings in patients who had undergone radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND).

Results

Of the 227 patients, 92.1% (209/227) had positive [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT findings. Advanced disease was detected in 38.8% (88/227) of the patients and was positively correlated with increasing ISUP grade and PSA levels. Lymph node metastases (both pelvic and extrapelvic), bone metastases, and visceral metastases were detected in 30.0% (68/227), 25.6% (58/227), and 3.1% (7/227) of the patients, respectively. For the 129 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy with PLND, the sensitivity of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT in the evaluation of PCa was 90.7% (117/129). The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values for detecting pelvic lymph node metastases on [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT were 23.5% (12/51), 93.6% (73/78), 65.9% (85/129), 70.6% (12/17), and 65.2% (73/112), respectively. Among the 209 patients with PSMA-avid primary prostate disease, the SUVmax of the primary prostate tumor was significantly associated with ISUP grade (p<0.0001), PSA levels (p<0.0001), D’Amico classification (p<0.0001), and advanced disease (p<0.0001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that a PSA level >19.8 ng/ml and SUVmax of the primary prostate tumor >7.4 had a sensitivity of 71.6% and 71.6% and specificity of 76.9% and 82.6%, respectively, for detecting metastatic disease.

Conclusions

[99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-ALUG SPECT/CT emerges as a valuable imaging tool for the initial staging of newly diagnosed PCa. The presence of advanced disease and the SUVmax of the primary prostate tumor were positively correlated with ISUP grade and PSA levels.
Machine learning-based prediction of vitamin D deficiency: NHANES 2001-2018
Authors: Guo Jiale , He Qionghan , Li Yehai
Published: February 2024

Background

Vitamin D deficiency is strongly associated with the development of several diseases. In the current context of a global pandemic of vitamin D deficiency, it is critical to identify people at high risk of vitamin D deficiency. There are no prediction tools for predicting the risk of vitamin D deficiency in the general community population, and this study aims to use machine learning to predict the risk of vitamin D deficiency using data that can be obtained through simple interviews in the community.

Methods

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2018 dataset is used for the analysis which is randomly divided into training and validation sets in the ratio of 70:30. GBM, LR, NNet, RF, SVM, XGBoost methods are used to construct the models and their performance is evaluated. The best performed model was interpreted using the SHAP value and further development of the online web calculator.

Results

There were 62,919 participants enrolled in the study, and all participants included in the study were 2 years old and above, of which 20,204 (32.1%) participants had vitamin D deficiency. The models constructed by each method were evaluated using AUC as the primary evaluation statistic and ACC, PPV, NPV, SEN, SPE, F1 score, MCC, Kappa, and Brier score as secondary evaluation statistics. Finally, the XGBoost-based model has the best and near-perfect performance. The summary plot of SHAP values shows that the top three important features for this model are race, age, and BMI. An online web calculator based on this model can easily and quickly predict the risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusion

In this study, the XGBoost-based prediction tool performs flawlessly and is highly accurate in predicting the risk of vitamin D deficiency in community populations.