bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GluR2 overexpression in ACC glutamatergic neurons alleviates cancer-induced bone pain in rats
Authors: Ba Futing , Wei Jinrong , Feng Qi-Yan , Yu Chen-Yang , Song Meng-Xue , Hu Shufen , Xu Guang-Yin , Zhang Hai-Long , Jiang Guo-Qin
Published: September 2024

Background Cancer-induced bone pain (CIBP) is a complex chronic pain with poorly understood mechanisms. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) plays a critical role in processing and modulating chronic pain. This study investigates how the GluR2 receptors (calcium impermeable AMPA receptors) in ACC glutamatergic neurons regulate CIBP. Methods The CIBP models were established by injecting Walker 256 cells into the tibia of SD rats. Paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were used as indicators of hyperalgesia. The immunofluorescence staining was employed to detect the expression of c-Fos in ACC and identify the subtypes of co-labeled c-Fos+neurons. Real-time monitoring of calcium activity in ACC glutamatergic neurons was achieved through the fiber photometry. The excitability of glutamatergic neurons in ACC was modulated using chemicalgenetics and optogenetics techniques. The expression of GluR2 at the mRNA and protein level in ACC were assessed using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Results There were significant reductions in PWT and PWL of CIBP rats after Walker 256 cell injection. The ACC of CIBP rats showed increased c-Fos expression compared to sham rats, with mainly activated c-Fos co-localized with glutamatergic neurons. Optogenetic or chemogenetic activation of ACC glutamatergic neurons led to increased hyperalgesia in sham rats, while suppression of their activity alleviated hyperalgesia in CIBP rats. Calcium activity in ACC glutamatergic neurons of CIBP rats was increased with suprathreshold stimulation of von Frey filament. Notably, surface GluR2 protein and mRNA were reduced in ACC of CIBP rats. Furthermore, overexpression of GluR2 by AAV-CaMKIIα-GluR2 injection was decreased c-Fos expression in ACC and alleviated hyperalgesia in CIBP rats. Conclusions These findings suggest that decreased surface GluR2 receptors in ACC glutamatergic neurons contribute to calcium activity and excessive excitability, thereby inducing CIBP in rats. Conversely, GluR2 overexpression in ACC glutamatergic neurons alleviates CIBP in rats. This study provides a new potential therapeutic approach for targeting the GluR2 receptor to alleviate CIBP for cancer patients.
Submesoscale Eddy-induced Nutrient Upwelling in the Upstream Kuroshio Current Forms Ecological Hotspot
Authors: Gomez Gloria Duran , Nagai Takeyoshi
Published: September 2024

While the Kuroshio, a western boundary current in the North Pacific, transports a large amount of nutrients in dark subsurface layers, it has been unclear whether these subsurface nutrients are supplied to continental shelves along southern coast of Japan. Recent observations revealed that the upstream Kuroshio flowing through rough topography forms a large-scale turbulence hotspot that may supply nutrients to sunlit surface layers. However, the Kuroshio-Island interaction in this region may also induce eddies and nutrient upwelling which have neither been observed directory nor quantified. Here, through high-resolution in-situ observations, we show submesoscale ~10 km nutrient structures along isopycnals, suggestive of eddy-induced upwelling. High-resolution simulations reproduce these features generated by submesoscale cyclonic eddy-induced nitrate upwelling at O(10 mmol m-2day-1), accounting ~9% of net primary production in the area 400 km downstream. Submesoscale eddies in the upstream Kuroshio partly explain how the Kuroshio sustains high biodiversity and biological production.
Blue Light-Emitting Diode Therapy for Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Brazilian Report
Authors: Modesto Waleska , Frederice Claudia , Bardin Marcela
Published: September 2024

Objective
We conducted a prospective study with the objective of assessing the effects of antimicrobial blue light (ABL) therapy for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) in drug-resistant women.
Introduction:
RVVC is defined as three or more episodes of candidiasis in a 12-month period. Conventional treatment is complex and often involves long-term or multiple treatments. ABL therapy is a promising treatment option as it is acceptable to women and has with few side effects.
Methods
Our study enrolled RVVC drug-resistant women, who received ABL through 10 sessions for 20 minutes once a week from January 2023 to January 2024. All women were followed up by 6 months after therapy.
Results
We included 62 patients. The overall positive response rates were 79% immediately after treatment and 58% after 6 months, respectively. There was an improvement in the symptoms of pruritus, burning, oedema, erythema and leucorrhoea.
Conclusion
ABL was an effective therapy to be employed in drug-resistant women suffering from RVVC.
Carboniferous Lithofacies and paleogeography of the Hexi Corridor Basins, China
Authors: ya Tian , zhongkai Bai , youxing Yang , Zhili Du , lihong Liu
Published: September 2024

The Hexi Corridor Basin Group, which is rich in Carboniferous source rocks, has become a key target for oil and gas exploration. The extensive distribution and oil and gas indications in dark mudstone within the Carboniferous strata illustrate promising prospects for good oil and gas in the region. The lithofacies and paleogeography of the Carboniferous in the Hexi Corridor Basin Group are analyzed through fieldwork, drilling and geochemistry. The Basin Group is characterized by extensive transgressive deposits. At the end of the deposition of the Yanghugou Formation, transgression over the uplifted area on the western margin of the Ordos region was ovvurring, and the Qilian Sea was connected with the North China Sea in the Ordos region. A braided river facies was superseded by a barrier-lagoon facies, accompanied by the formation of peat swamps and the subsequent formation of coal seams. In the Late Carboniferous, a meandering river facies became characteristic, while the barrier-lagoon facies was more widely developed in combined marine and continental setting. The lithofacies and paleogeography were influenced by the presence of significant faults and a paleotopography.
The Relationship Between Leisure-time Physical Activity and Sleep Disorders in American Adults
Authors: Yang Juxiang , Zheng Xi , Song Gang
Published: September 2024

Objective
This study aims to explore the relationship between different domains of physical activity and sleep disorders.
Methods
We included 20,597 participants (aged ≥ 18 years) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2007–2014). Restricted cubic spline models were utilized to explore the nonlinear relationship between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and sleep disorders, as well as its gender differences.
Results
1) Among different domains of physical activity, only LTPA showed a strong association with sleep disorders. 2) Participants engaging in LTPA according to the recommended levels (< 1 time (1-149 minutes/week), 1–2 times (150–299 minutes/week), or ≥ 2 times (300 minutes/week)) experienced a respective decrease in the risk of sleep disorders by 16% (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.72–0.98), 19% (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.68–0.96), and 26% (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.64–0.85). 3) Stratified analysis by different strata (defined by age, gender, race, economic status, education, marital status, BMI, and smoking status) did not reveal any interaction with leisure-time physical activity. 4) Restricted cubic spline graphs (RCS) demonstrated a negative correlation between leisure-time physical activity and the risk of sleep disorders in males, while a U-shaped relationship was observed in females.
Conclusion
For sleep disorders, males appear to benefit from higher levels of leisure-time physical activity, whereas for females, more does not necessarily translate to greater benefits. However, irrespective of gender, marital status, education, economic status, and smoking status, engaging in leisure-time physical activity consistent with PA guidelines is associated with a lower risk of sleep disorders.
Intraoperative surgical complications of open surgery for congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A multicenter, observational study in Japan
Authors: Terui Keita , Nagata Kouji , Yamoto Masaya , Sato Yoshiaki , Okuyama Hiroomi , Maruyama Hidehiko , Yokoi Akiko , Kim Kiyokazu , Masumoto Kouji , Okazaki Tadaharu , Inamura Noboru , Toyoshima Katsuaki , Koike Yuhki , Yazaki Yuta , Sato Yasunori , Usui Noriaki
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to clarify surgical complications associated with open surgery for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).
Methods: We performed an exploratory data analysis of the clinical characteristics of surgical complications of neonates with CDH who underwent laparotomy or thoracotomy between 2006 and 2021. Data of these patients were obtained from the database of the Japanese CDH Study Group.
Results: Among 1,111 neonates with left or right CDH, 852 underwent open surgery (laparotomy or thoracotomy). Of these 852 neonates, 51 had the following surgical complications: organ injury (n=48; 6% of open surgeries); circulatory failure caused by changes in the organ location (n=2); and skin burns (n=1). Injured organs included the spleen (n=30; 62% of organ injuries), liver (n=7), lungs (n=4), intestine (n=4), adrenal gland (n=2), and thoracic wall (n=2). Fourteen of the patients who experienced organ injury required a blood transfusion (2% of open surgeries). The adjusted odds ratio of splenic injury for patients with non-direct closure of the diaphragm was 2.2 (95% confidence interval, 1.1–4.9).
Conclusion: Of the patients who underwent open surgery for CDH, 2% experienced organ injury that required a blood transfusion. Non-direct closure of the diaphragmatic defect was a risk factor for splenic injury.
Post-NACA Aerodynamics: Optimizing H-Darrieus VAWT Design with CFD Simulations of Novel J-Blades
Authors: Abdallah Ahmed , William Micheal A. , Zidane Iham F.
Published: September 2024

As the demand for sustainable energy sources continues to rise, improving the efficiency of existing renewable technologies is crucial. This study investigates the aerodynamic performance of a novel J-shaped blade design for H-Darrieus VAWT with the objective of enhancing starting torque and overall efficiency. A 2D URANS CFD model was employed to simulate the airflow around the J-shaped blades. The model underwent a comprehensive verification and validation process. This rigorous approach ensured the model's fidelity, enabling a systematic comparison of the J-shaped blade's aerodynamic performance with conventional NACA0015 airfoils. The numerical analysis reveals a significant enhancement in starting torque, with a 142% increase observed at low tip speed ratios (λ = 0.2). This finding positions the J-shaped blade as a promising solution to address the challenge of initiating rotation in low-wind environments, particularly relevant for urban applications. Furthermore, the simulations demonstrate comparable torque production between the J-shaped blade and the NACA0015 airfoil under typical operating conditions. The J-shaped blade exhibits improved torque uniformity and reduced wake turbulence intensity. This study highlights the potential of the J-shaped blade design to revolutionize VAWT technology by offering advancements in increased efficiency, reduced fatigue stresses on the turbine structure, and optimized energy generation.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Referral Biopsy Compared to Optical Biopsy in Large Non- Pedunculated Colorectal Polyps
Authors: Gorelik Yuri , Korytny Alexander , Arraf Tarek , Arsheid Nour , Mazzawi Fares , Awadie Halim , Klein Amir
Published: September 2024

Background
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of large non-pedunculated colorectal polyps (LNPCPs) offers excellent efficacy and safety. Referral biopsies are commonly obtained prior to EMR despite their potential adverse effects. We aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of referral biopsy as compared with optical evaluations and the polyp’s final pathology.
Methods
We analyzed a cohort from two centers that included adult patients referred for EMR of LNPCPs between 2017 and 2022. The NICE classification system was used for optical classification. We compared procedural outcomes of lesions with or without a referral biopsy and diagnostic accuracy of referral biopsy and optical evaluation to the final histopathology of the resected polyp.
Results
Of 605 EMR procedures, 398 (65.8%) had referral biopsies. Polyp size was larger in the biopsy group. No significant differences were observed in en-bloc resection rate, adequate lifting, procedural bleeding, or surveillance recurrence rates. Optical biopsies had higher diagnostic concordance with final histology (Cohen’s Kappa 0.62 vs. 0.55) and enhanced sensitivity for sessile serrated polyps/hyperplastic polyps (SSP/HP) and cancer as compared to referral biopsies (0.75 vs. 0.72, P<0.01, and 0.19 vs. 0.0, p<0.01, respectively). Optical evaluation was more accurate in non-biopsied lesions.
Conclusions
Referral biopsies do not offer additional diagnostic accuracy and may reduce the accuracy of optical evaluation for LNPCPs.
An Investigative Study on Depression Among Clinical Medical Students in Private Universities in North Central Nigeria
Authors: Obilade Titilola , Koleoso Peter O. , Nwenendah-Mpi Emelda W.
Published: September 2024

Background
Depression is among known mental health conditions and students in schools of medicine are not immune to it. In this investigative study, 211 clinical medical students of two private universities from North-Central Nigeria were examined on depression prevalence, the contributory factors and their coping strategies.
Methods
The Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), the Medical Student’s Stressor Questionnaire (MSSQ) and identified coping strategies according to Coping Oriented to Problems Experienced Inventory (COPE) were instruments of data collection.
Results
The results were obtained by both descriptive analysis and test of association between some categorical variables. The depression prevalence amongst the participants was 159 (75.4%). Females (124 (78.0%)) were more depressed than males (35 (22.0%)). Factors identified as contributing to depression were the heavy academic workload (124 (78.5%)), insufficient family time (93 (58.1%)) and financial constraints (54 (34.0%)). The most utilized method of coping with their stress was engaging on social media (133 (84.2%)), followed by talking with relatives or friends (99 (62.7%)) and use of recreational drugs (20 (12.8%)). The findings from this study have shown that more than three-quarters of the respondents suffered from varying degrees of depression from mild, 63 (29.9%), moderate, 53 (25.1%) to severe, 43 (20.4%).
Conclusions
The heavy academic workload was a major source of depression. Colleges of Medicine should take pro-active steps towards their students’ mental health and academic workload should be well spaced to reduce the stress imposed by the frequency of examinations.
Artificial intelligence correctly identifies perfect lateral knee X-rays: a pilot study
Authors: Oettl Felix Conrad , Shariatnia Moein , Kunze Kyle , Allen Answorth , Ranawat Anil , Pearle Andrew , Pareek Ayoosh
Published: September 2024

Background
Accurate assessment of lateral knee radiographs is crucial for evaluating knee biomechanics and guiding treatment decisions. However, manual evaluation is time-consuming and subject to variability. This study aims to develop a machine learning model that can automatically classify lateral knee X-rays, paving the way for automated measurement of important biomechanical parameters like posterior tibial slope and patella tendon indices.
Methods
929 random lateral knee X-rays, with Kellgren Lawrence (KL) grade 0 and 1 were extracted from the Osteoarthritis Initiatives (OAI) publicly accessible database. We randomly split the 929 images into 729 images for the training set and 200 images for the test set. The images were evaluated for quality and classified into three categories: 'Excellent', 'Good', and 'Bad'. Region of interest was identified and cropped using a deep learning object detector. The images were resized to 320 * 320 and augmented. We utilized fine-tuning versions of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) architectures, with subsequent 5-fold cross validation to help with hyperparameter tuning. Model performance was evaluated with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and Accuracy.
Results
ResNet was the most accurate model, with a composite AUC of 0.979 (CI= [0.964–0.99]). The highest accuracy was achieved correctly classifying the ‘Bad’ class. The confusion matrix showed that classifying 'Bad' and 'Excellent' classes was simpler than 'Good,' consistent with expert human annotators. Saliency maps highlighting the most predictive area of the X-ray exhibit a focus on alignment of the posterior femoral condyle.
Conclusion
We successfully developed and validated a high-performing deep learning model for classifying lateral knee X-ray images. Ultimately, the ability to extract accurate biomechanical data from routine lateral radiographs through automated analysis has potential to revolutionize orthopedic care delivery, enabling cost-effective assessments, aiding surgical planning, and facilitating outcome evaluation – paving the way for improved diagnostic capabilities and better patient outcomes.
Pillar-MTNet: A Point Cloud Vehicle Target Detection Algorithm Based on Pillar and Swin Transformer
Authors: Liang Jiabao , Guan Zhiwei , Chen Xiaoyan , Su Wei , Hou Zeyao
Published: September 2024

Object detection in point clouds is a crucial component of numerous robotics applications, including autonomous driving. Developing an efficient yet deployable backbone network capable of extracting feature is a foundational challenge within the domain of 3D perception. In contrast to convolution, the attention mechanism employed in Transformers is better suited for effectively modeling long-range relationships and is more readily deployable in real-world applications. In this paper, we designed a new point cloud vehicle target detection algorithm called Pillar-MTNet for better detection accuracy. We introduced Mobile Block into the network to replace the convolution operation of the traditional backbone network to reduce the network parameters and improve the feature extraction capability of the network. Additionally, for the purpose of extracting more profound semantic features, we also incorporate Swin Transformer Block (STB) to process the feature map subsequent to the final down-sampling and Mobile Block. RDIoU is adopted to optimize detection results and use it to guide bounding box regression and supervise classification. Extensive comparative experimentations on the classic Open Dataset Kitti and Waymo shows that Pillar-MTNet outperforms previous classical methods in vehicle target detection accuracy.
Structural Design and Optimization of Egg Carrier for Dynamic Egg Slit Detection Platforms
Authors: Meng Ronghua , Tian Yuxiang , Huang Siwei
Published: September 2024

This paper presents an improved egg carrier for supporting common types of eggs currently available on the market during the operation of an egg slit inspection platform. It can convey them forward to the corresponding inspection position. The egg carrier consists of three basic modules. The improved egg carrier has the advantages of adaptability to different types of eggs, adjustability, low maintenance and manufacturing costs, stable and efficient operation. Firstly, the functions to be realized by the egg carrier are analyzed, the preliminary design ideas and solutions are proposed through TRIZ theory. Secondly, the structure of the egg carrier is designed, the material properties are analyzed, the key parameters such as deformation are simulated by SolidWorks and Ansys Workbench. Finite element and fatigue analysis are carried out for the key parameters of the structure, the deformation, fatigue and other data appeared in the actual operation process are obtained. Based on the condition of stable carrying eggs, the mathematical model of carrying motion is established, the Genetic Algorithm (GA) is chosen to optimize the structural parameters. Finally, the motion simulation is carried out for the improved egg carrier, which verifies the reasonableness of the optimized structure. The physical object of the stand-alone egg carrier is manufactured.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of two-component system genes in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.)
Authors: Wu Baolin , Sun Mengyu , Zhong Tao , Zhang Jiawei , Lei Tingshu , Yan Yuming , Chen Xiaohong , Nan Rui , Sun Fengli , Zhang Chao , Xi Yajun
Published: September 2024

Composed of Histidine Kinases (HKs), Histidine Phosphotransfer Proteins (HPs), and Response Regulators (RRs), the Two-Component System (TCS) plays an essential role in guiding plant growth, development, and reactions to different environmental factors. Although TCS genes have been extensively identified in a variety of plants, the genome-wide recognition and examination of TCS in switchgrass remain unreported. Accordingly, this study identified a total of 87 TCS members in the genome of switchgrass, comprising 20 HK(L)s, 10 HPs, and 57 RRs. Detailed analyses were also conducted on their gene structures, conserved domains, and phylogenetic relationships. Moreover, this study analysed the gene expression profiles across diverse organs and investigated their response patterns to adverse environmental stresses. Results revealed that 87 TCS genes were distributed across 18 chromosomes, with uneven distribution. Amplification of these genes in switchgrass was achieved through both fragment and tandem duplication. PvTCS members are relatively conservative in the evolutionary process, but the gene structure varies significantly. Various cis-acting elements, varying in types and amounts, are present in the promoter region of PvTCS, all related to plant growth, development, and abiotic stress, due to the TCS gene structure. Protein-protein interaction and microRNA prediction suggest complex interactions and transcriptional regulation among TCS members. Additionally, most TCS members are expressed in roots and stems, with some genes showing organ-specific expression at different stages of leaf and inflorescence development. Under conditions of abiotic stress such as drought, low temperature, high temperature, and salt stress, as well as exogenous abscisic acid (ABA), the expression of most TCS genes is either stimulated or inhibited. Our systematic analysis could offer insight into the characterization of the TCS genes, and further the growth of functional studies in switchgrass.
An experimental investigation on the turbulent drag reduction effect of polyacrylamide solution in the loop pipe
Authors: Chen Yang , He Minlan , Yang Peng , Li Changjun , Nechval Andrey M. , Valeev Anvar R.
Published: September 2024

Flexible long-chain polymer molecules with linear structures are widely used in the field of turbulent drag reduction. However, there is no single mechanism that can fully explain all the experimental phenomena of polymer drag reduction. In this paper, we have investigated the relationship between polymer macro-microscopic factors and loop pipe(inner diameter 32mm, wall thickness 3mm, length 19.02m) flow parameters to explain the polymer turbulent drag reduction and degradation mechanisms. Our conclusions are as follows: drag reduction exists in saturated concentration, the higher the Reynolds number corresponds to the larger saturated concentration; there is a maximum drag reduction Reynolds number(Remax), the higher the concentration corresponds to the larger Remax; with concentration θ=100ppm (parts per million) and molecular weight increasing, the drag reduction efficiency increases; with θ=100ppm, the solution shows shear thinning behavior, so the polymer molecules are mechanically fractured; in the concentration range θ=2-20ppm, with concentration and polymer particle size in solution increasing, the distribution range becomes wider; the Weissenberg number(Wi) is related to the molecular weight, and the solution shows a better elasticity with the Wi increasing. This paper elucidates the impact of macro-microscopic factors on the elasticity of polymers, thereby enhancing the understanding of the relationship between polymer elasticity and drag reduction efficiency.
Study on effects of acidic environment on structure and property of magnesium oxychloride cement
Authors: An Lingyun , Chang Chenggong , Wang Ziyi , Zhou Zhifu , Yan Fengyun
Published: September 2024

To reveal the effects of acidic environment on structure and property of magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC), the evolution of macro- and micro-morphologies, phase composition and mechanical property of MOC samples with soaking time in 5 wt.% H2SO4 solution were studied by using SEM, XRD, FT-IR and microelectromechanical electrohydraulic servo-pressure testing machine, respectively. The results show that the deterioration of MOC sample under acidic environment is mainly attributed to the consumption of the sample caused by the reaction between H+ ions and the substances in sample. The longer the soaking time, the more the sample consumed by H+ ions, and the more serious the deterioration of the sample. After dipping in H2SO4 media for 12h, the mass loss rate of MOC sample is up to 77.5%, and its volume decreases by nearly 3/4. Meanwhile, the surface morphology of MOC sample is changed from gel and needle rod to granular, and the content of P5, Mg(OH)2 and MgO reduce, resulting in the compressive strength of MOC samples declining by 92.2%. However, due to the volume effect, H+ ions do not invade the inner core of the sample, so that the micro-morphology and phase composition of the inner core are almost unchanged. In short, MOC sample gradually deteriorates under acidic environment through being consumed by H+ ions from the outside to the inside.
Functional properties, amino acid content, fatty acid, and flavor of buffalo milk Dangke with the addition of Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5 as probiotic
Authors: Hajrawati Hajrawati , Arief Irma Isnafia , Sukma Ade , Wulandari Zakiah , Darmawati Maulita Putri , Ardat Muh. Achyar
Published: September 2024

Dangke, a traditional dairy product originating in Enrekang Regency, is produced by coagulating milk casein sourced from either cow or buffalo, using papain as a coagulating agent. Probiotic bacteria, exemplified by L. plantarum IIA-1A5, shows health benefits by maintaining microbial balance in the digestive system. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical quality, functional properties, amino acid content, fatty acid, microbiological quality, and flavor of buffalo milk Dangke with the addition of L. plantarum IIA-1A5 as a probiotic at 5% and 10% supplementation levels. The results showed significant differences among treatments in Total Titratable Acidity (TTA), protein, ash, and carbohydrate contents. The highest amino acid content was observed in dangke under the control treatment (without L. plantarum IIA-1A5), particularly in glutamate, while the lowest was identified in alanine and histidine. Furthermore, the highest and lowest fatty acid in the control was Elaidic and Eicosenoic Acid at 0.33% and 0.022%, respectively. The highest total LAB was observed in dangke with a 10% addition of L. plantarum IIA-1A5, reaching 8.50 log CFU/ml. Flavor analysis showed that the major compounds in the 0% dangke group, were silanediol and D-limonene. Meanwhile, in the 5% group, the major compounds were acetoin and methyl formate. It is important to note that the 10% group was affected by ethyl alcohol.
Factors Propelling Financial Inclusion in an Emerging Economy: An analysis through the ARDL Model
Authors: Bhowmik Probir Kumar , Islam Muhammad Rakibul
Published: September 2024

The present study explores the factors that influence financial inclusion in Bangladesh. A time series data set has been constructed by compiling thirty-two years of world development indicators from 1991 to 2022. The Least Squares method was applied, followed by an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model. The investigation finds that macroeconomic and bank-specific factors influence financial inclusion. The study initially considers the number of borrowers (BROW) as the proxy of financial inclusion. BROW was replaced with the number of branches (BRNC) to make the study robust. Both the proxies of financial inclusion provide results that suggest robustness. (The key variables examined include lending interest rates (LIR), GDP growth (GDPg), government expenditure on expenditure (GEOE), inflation (INF), bank lending (LOAN), non-performing loan ratios (NPLR), interest rate spreads (SPRD), and unemployment rates (UNEM). Significant findings reveal that lending interest rates negatively impact the number of borrowers (BORW); on the contrary, GDP growth positively affects the number of borrowers. A noteworthy discovery is the significant negative impact of non-performing loan ratios on the number of borrowers, suggesting that higher bad loans reduce overall lending activity due to increased caution among financial institutions. Additionally, the spread between lending and deposit rates positively influences the number of borrowers, reflecting that higher spreads may incentivize banks to lend more due to greater profitability margins. The study highlights the importance of macroeconomic stability and adequate financial sector management in promoting financial inclusion through increased borrowing. Policymakers should consider these outcomes to develop policies that balance the interest rates, manage economic growth, and control non-performing loans toward fostering a robust borrowing environment. Understanding these dynamics can help formulate strategies that enhance Bangladesh's financial inclusion and economic development.
JEL Classification: G20; G41
Note: The researchers confirm that there is no conflict of interest and that the research paper is for scientific purposes only.
Intelligent optimization of cold radial forging process for 20CrMnTiH alloy based on GA-BP and performance analysis
Authors: Xu Wenxia , Wang Zhaohui , Zhu Xuwen , Zhang Bowen , Zheng Zecheng , Lv Mi , Wang Hongxia
Published: September 2024

For the forming of hollow components, cold radial forging (CRF) is thought to be one of the best manufacturing processes. However, minute modifications to the alloy composition during the stage of cold deformation processing can have an impact on the material's manufacturability. In order to tackle the issues of elevated optimization costs, challenging data acquisition, and forming quality prediction when combining multiple processes, like heat treatment and material composition. In this paper, we propose to build an intelligent prediction model to realize the prediction of the forming quality of CRF of 20CrMnTiH alloy using a back-propagation neural network (GA-BP) optimized by genetic algorithm. The evaluation of forming quality is based on damage, residual stress, and equivalent strain. The effects of alloy composition and spheroidal annealing (SA) process parameters are studied in relation to forming quality. The three prediction models of GA-BP perform better in terms of R2 (coefficient of determination) and MSE (mean square error) than the conventional BP neural network and four other machine learning techniques (gradient-enhanced decision tree, random forest, support vector regression, logistic regression, and logistic regression). Based on a thorough comparative analysis of the evaluation metrics of all three prediction models and multi-objective optimization, it can be concluded that the Pareto solution set produced by NSGA-II has the best distribution uniformity. Remaining stresses were reduced by 12 percent, equivalent strain by 15 percent, and component damage by 30 percent after the obtained process parameters (0.17%C-0.24%Si-0.81%Mn-0.03%P-0.03%S-1.15%Cr-0.05%Ni-0.06%Ti, Te: 60℃, ATi: 4.57h) were optimized using the suggested methodology. The findings demonstrate that the approach presented in this paper improves the CRF molding quality effect in addition to making the optimized model significantly more accurate at predicting molding quality precision.
Morphological, Physicochemical, Nutritional, Technological and Health Characterization of Tubers About Three Nutsedge (Cyperus Esculentus) Cultivars Produced and Marketed in Benin
Authors: Noukpozounkou Zérach Jésugnon , Badoussi Eric Marius , Chabi Ifagbémi Bienvenu , Mamatchi Mélila , Fagla Balbine Akouavi Amoussou , Mitchikpè Evariste Comlan , Chabi Nicodème Worou , Azokpota Paulin
Published: September 2024

The edible nutsedge is an weedy plant species whose tuberous roots are comparable to tubers from conventional agriculture. The present study aims to characterize the tubers of three nutsedge cultivars in terms of morphology, technology, nutrition and health. The morphological data reveal average diameter and length of the tubers of the black cultivar greater than those of the brown (twice) and yellow (once) tubers. In addition, the mass of black tubers is 10 times that of brown tubers and 2.5 times that of yellow ones. The black cultivar is on the other hand the least acidic (6.22 ± 0.01) compared to the brown cultivar (5.37 ± 0.01) which is more acidic. Considering the technological parameters, the cultivars are similar according to the tuber densities before and after soaking; CH; IH; CG and IG. Analysis of the nutritional potential of the yellow cultivar reveals high protein (4.04 ± 0.03%) and ash (2.7 ± 0.02%) contents while the highest fat content is contained in the brown nutsedge (21.10 ± 0.12%). The yellow cultivar is richer in Vitamins A and C with 0.62 ± 0.01 mg/L and 0.14%. The same is true for minerals K (8569.01 ± 175 mg/kg); Ca (1333.28 ± 53.4 mg/kg) and P (2000 ± 28.3 mg/kg). The brown cultivar has the highest levels of Iron (136.40 ± 5.30 mg/Kg), Sodium (2217.02 ± 104.2 mg/Kg) although the greatest proportion of Zinc is contained in the cultivar black (185.35 ± 0.28 mg/Kg). FAN are concentrated in the black cultivar with a preponderant content of oxalic acid compared to those of the brown (2 times) and yellow (1.5 times) cultivars. Furthermore, the health assessment presents trace amounts of heavy metals in the three cultivars. Keywords: Yellow nutsedge; cultivar; technological parameters; nutritional potential; heavy metals
Investigating the feasibility of waste cooking oils as a phase change material for low and medium temperature applications: Thermal characterization
Authors: P Saji Raveendran , E Varadha , S Somasundaram
Published: September 2024

The study explores the use of Waste Cooking Oils (WCOs) as Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage, addressing environmental issues from improper WCO disposal. With global WCO production exceeding 190 million metric tons annually and per capita cooking oil consumption rising from 10.33 liters in 2015 to 11.58 liters in 2021, the need for sustainable solutions is evident. Previous studies have highlighted the thermal energy storage potential of WCOs, making them suitable for room cooling and thermal management applications. This research aims to enhance the thermal properties by blending waste sunflower and coconut oils with soybean oil, optimizing them for low (-20 to 5°C) and medium (5 to 40°C) temperature applications. Advanced characterization techniques are employed to evaluate the chemical composition and thermal properties of these blends. The findings indicate that blending WCOs with soybean oil significantly improves their thermal properties, including latent heat capacity, phase change temperature, and thermal stability. The optimized blends exhibit increased crystallinity and superior thermal conductivity, making them effective PCMs for thermal energy storage. The results validate the feasibility of converting WCOs into eco-friendly thermal storage materials, paving the way for scalable and sustainable energy management practices.
Exploring English Language Instructors’ In-class Practices of Intercultural Communicative Competence through Vignette Cases
Authors: Kumru-Yağmurkaya Zehra Sultan , Aşık Asuman
Published: September 2024

Being an intercultural speaker has been acknowledged one of the essential skills in foreign language teaching. Therefore, Intercultural Communicative Competence of foreign language learners and related in-class practices have gained significance. This study aims to explore English language instructors’ in-class practices of Intercultural Communicative Competence through vignette cases in order to reduce the self-reported ideas. Following the qualitative, phenomenological research design, the data were collected from the ten participants through the vignette-based interview designed within the study. The results revealed that ideal and real versions of Intercultural Communicative Competence practices were different; they ideally believed that it should be in the centre of language teaching; yet, it was not covered much in real situations. The participants were mostly able to determine the problem of teaching Intercultural Communicative Competence throughout the vignette cases offering numerous suggestions and sharing their reactions to the cases. They also provided hypothetical practices for themselves, and shared their in-class experiences. Pedagogical implications and suggestions for further research were provided at the end of the study.
Minimally invasive surgical management of superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) in children
Authors: Cazares Joel , Rosa-Bustamante Eduardo de la , Colin-Garnica Jorge , Guillen-Cardenas Arturo , Cantu-Reyes Jorge
Published: September 2024

Purpose
Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening disorder. It has a low incidence, and its clinical presentation can often mimic other disorders, making its diagnosis challenging.
Methods
Four patients treated from 2017–2023 presented with chronic abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and severe weight loss, leading to malnutrition. Psychological evaluations were conducted to comprehensively assess their condition. Diagnostic tests included abdominal X-rays demonstrating gastric distension, upper gastrointestinal series revealing duodenal contrast retention, endoscopy indicating difficulty in advancing into the third portion of the duodenum and CT angiography demonstrating a decrease in the angle between the SMA and the abdominal aorta. Referral to pediatric surgery was necessary after conservative management yielded no improvement.
Results
In three patients, laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy was performed, whereas one patient underwent laparoscopic gastrojejunostomy. All patients were discharged with satisfactory recovery and no complications.
Conclusions
This study highlights the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic surgical techniques in managing pediatric SMAS patients who are unresponsive to conservative measures. Laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy and gastrojejunostomy have demonstrated favorable outcomes in this context. Further research and data collection are warranted to continue evaluating the long-term success of these techniques in managing SMAS.
Level of evidence
IV, case series with no comparison group.
Moiré Periodic and Quasiperiodic Crystals in Heterostructures of Twisted Bilayer Graphene and Hexagonal Boron Nitride
Authors: Andrei Eva , Lai Xinyuan , Coe Angela , Li Guohong , Pixley Jedediah , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi
Published: September 2024

Stacking two atomic crystals with a twist between their crystal axes produces moiré potentials that modify the electronic properties. Here we show that double moiré potentials generated by superposing three atomic crystals create a new class of tunable quasiperiodic structures that alter the symmetry and spatial distribution of the electronic wavefunctions. By using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy to study twisted bilayer graphene on hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), we unveil a moiré phase diagram defined by the lattice constants of the two moiré lattices (graphene-on-graphene and graphene-on-hBN), comprising both commensurate periodic and incommensurate quasiperiodic crystals. Remarkably, the 1:1 commensurate crystal, which should theoretically exist at only one point on this phase diagram, is observed over a wide range, demonstrating an unexpected self-alignment mechanism. The incommensurate crystals include quasicrystals, which are quasiperiodic and feature a Bravais-forbidden dodecagonal symmetry, and intercrystals, which are also quasiperiodic but lack forbidden symmetries. This rich variety of tunable double moiré structures offers a synthetic platform for exploring the unique electronic properties of quasiperiodic crystals, which are rarely found in nature.
Intercropping Alters Phytochemical Defenses Against Insect Herbivory
Authors: FYIE JARROD Q. , STRATTON CHASE A. , MORRISON WILLIAM R. , MURRELL EBONY G.
Published: September 2024

Given the multiple possible mechanisms for interspecific chemical interaction between adjacent heterospecific plants, phytochemical defenses of pest-susceptible crop species could potentially be enhanced or altered by intercropping with phytochemically diverse neighbors. We assessed the influence of intercropping between phytochemically diverse plants on aerial volatile organic compound (VOC) emission profiles by intercropping Melilotus alba and Triticum aestivum with Silphium integrifolium in AMF-inoculated soil. We also assessed the impact of intercropping on induced plant defenses by conducting an in-situ, no-choice bioassay with Spodoptera frugiperda. Of eight compound classes we identified across the three plant species, prenol lipids (terpenoids) were upregulated in silflower plants when monocropped with wheat and when herbivory was induced. Carboxylic acids and organooxygen compounds were reduced in sweetclover when intercropped with silflower, but increased under herbivory. Uninfested wheat plants emitted more organooxygen compounds and fatty acyls than infested plants when intercropped with silflower, but not when monocropped. This study showed that VOC emissions of plants from three diverse taxa are altered by both intercropping and herbivory in ways that may impact their resistance to insect herbivory. Further research into the role of intercropping on pest resistance in agroecological systems could help farmers to design intercropping systems that optimize natural plant herbivory defenses, thus improving agricultural sustainability.
The role of Artificial Intelligence as a community screening tool for Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Tanzania
Authors: Mzurikwao Deogratias , Kabika Twaha , Kalonga Asa , SAKAFU LULU , Mayala Simeon
Published: September 2024

Background
Tanzania has adopted the use of AI in TB screening, largely known as CAD4TB, with GeneXpert remaining a major confirmatory test. East setting using the technology is supposed to setup its own threshold score. But the country has not yet established the score, and no study has been done to understand the efficiency of the technology. This study proposes a threshold and analysis on the efficiency of using CAD4TB in Tanzania.
Methods
This study collected data from four mobile clinic vans, moving around the country for screening of TB. The vans are installed with digital Xray machines, CAD4TB and GeneXpert machines. We compared the score of human readers, CAD4TB against the ground truth of GeneXpert.
Results
From the study of 11923 individuals, out of the 818 suggestive cases as per radiologists reading, only 15 cases were confirmed positive by GeneXpert, that is 6.7% of all cases compared to 99% correlation of CAD4TB. Apart from this correlation of CAD4TB and GeneXpert, we also learn that most of the cases were directly subjected into GeneXpert without the use of CAD4TB although CAD4TB was installed in the vans. The analysis was based on the suggested CAD4TB score by this study.
Conclusion
This study suggests the potential use of CAD4TB in screening of TB in Tanzania and a potential threshold to use. Further studies need to be done for analysis in clinical settings.
Keywords
Nitrophenyl-group-containing Heterocycles. 3. New Isoquinolines, as antiprolifative agents against MCF7and HEGP2 Cell lines. Synthesis, characterization and biological Evaluation.
Authors: Bakhite Etify A. , Hassanien Reda , Farhan Nasser , Sayed Eman M. , Sharaky Marwa
Published: September 2024

In this study, 7-Acetyl-4-cyano-1,6-dimethyl-6-hydroxy-8- (3-nitrophenyl or 4-nitrophenyl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrosoquinoline-3(2H)-thiones 2a-b were synthesized and used as starting materials. Thus, compounds 2a-b were reacted with methyl iodide, ethyl chloroacetate, by heating in ethanol in the presence of sodium acetate trihydrate to give 3-substituted methylthio-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroisoquinoline-4-carbonitriles 3, 4, respectively. In a similar manner, the reaction of compounds 2a-b with N-arylchloroacetamides5a-c afforded the corresponding N-aryl-(5,6,7,8-tetrahydroiso-quinolin-3-ylthio) acetamides 6a-c in excellent yields. In contrast, the reaction of 3b with N-(benzthiazol-2-yl)-2-chloroacetamide (12)under the same (above) conditions yielded 1-amino-N-(benzthiazol-2-yl)-6,7,8,9-tetrahydrothieno[2,3-c]isoquinoline-2-carboxamide13.Cyclization of compounds 6a-c into their 7a-cwas performed by heating in ethanol containing a catalytic amount of sodium ethoxide. The structures of all newly synthesized compounds were characterized by elemental and spectral analyses. Also, most of the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their anticancer activity in MCF7 andHEGP2 cell lines.The most potent compound against theMCF7 cell lines was compound 9b, and the most potent against HEGP2 cell lines was compound 3. Then the effects of compound 3 on the proliferation of HEPG2 cell lines was investigated using an apoptotic Annexin V-FITC test and flow cytometry. Compound 3 induced a 59-fold increase in HEPG2 cell line apoptosis and cell cycle arrested at the G0-G1, G2/M phases.
Knowledge and Perception of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among Medical Students
Authors: Masood Zernash , Suhail Muzna , Anwar Khujesta , Hassan Amna , Tariq Kinza , Zafar Huzaifa , Ahmad Namra , Hussain Syed Mamnoon
Published: September 2024

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine illness in women of reproductive age, prevailing globally. It is a major reproductive health issue and due to its association with chronic health problems, it is considered a significant health problem. This study’s purpose is to determine and interpret the medical students' knowledge and perception related to polycystic ovarian syndrome, who are studying in Lahore, Pakistan. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in medical colleges of Lahore, Pakistan, recruiting 406 participants for this study. A validated questionnaire was used to collect data via an online platform, and the data was statistically analyzed using frequencies and percentages. The results showed that the participants had adequate knowledge about PCOS, with the majority (30.8%) getting their information from family and friends. The majority of the participants correlated negative perceptions such as depression (93.1%) and increased risk for cancer (67.7%) with PCOS. In addition, when asked about the symptoms of PCOS, 91.6% responded with irregularity or absence of menstrual cycle. Furthermore, it was observed that student’s perception regarding PCOS was that, it could lead to miscarriage (74.6%). However, most of the students (79.3%) believed that a healthy lifestyle could control it. The current study revealed that educational level significantly affected participants’ knowledge about PCOS, as this study only includes participants with a medical background having adequate knowledge. There is still a need to evaluate and enhance knowledge and perception of PCOS among the general population.