bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-time defect detection for FDM 3D printing using lightweight model deployment
Authors: Hu WenJing , Chang Chen , Su Shaohui , Zhang Jian , Zhu An
Published: May 2024

FDM 3D printing is one of the most widely used additive manufacturing methods, bringing great convenience to production manufacturing. However, various printing defects may occur during the printing process due to human factors or printer-related issues. Timely detection of defects and halting printing becomes a scenario of significant practical importance. This paper first analyzes the causes of the five most common defects in FDM 3D printing, and a defect dataset is created by deliberately designing defects. Subsequently, a real-time defect detection system for FDM 3D printing, based on an improved YOLOv8 detection head, is developed. By employing an optimization method using Group Convolution to share parameters, the detection head is lightweight, resulting in better model performance. Experimental results demonstrate that the mAP50 of the improved YOLOv8 model reaches 97.5%, with an 18.1% increase in FPS and a 32.9% reduction in GFLOPs. This enhancement maintains comparable detection accuracy to the original model while achieving faster detection speed and lower computational requirements. The improved model is integrated into the detection system as the detection model, and through testing, the real-time detection system promptly and accurately identifies and alerts any occurring defects. The practical significance of this system lies in its ability to enhance production efficiency, reduce resource wastage due to defective printing, and improve product quality and manufacturing safety, thereby providing strong support for the application of visual inspection technology in FDM 3D printing.
Reduction in the Geometric Complexity of the Ground Observed Before the 2011 Mw 9 East Japan Earthquake through Data Mining Assisted by Cellular Automata.
Authors: Kikuchi Hiroyuki
Published: May 2024

In our prior research on ground vibration fluctuations (GVF), we discovered precursory signals 1231 days before the Mw9 Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE) that occurred at 14:46 on March 11, 2011 (Japan Standard Time). The timing of these signals coincides with the changes in the thermodynamic state of the GVF. In this investigation, we employed the "data mining method" consisting of the two-step process that we previously proposed. Firstly, the presence of interesting signals is predicted by cellular automata (CA). Subsequently, these signals are searched for within the measured GVF data. The rationality of correlating the CA predictions with reality has been validated in our prior studies, which demonstrate that GVF detected near the epicenter of GEJE is thermodynamically equivalent to the CA. In this study, the "data mining method" was also applied. The CA predicted a decrease in the fractal dimension of geometric parameters at the timing of the precursory signals. Subsequently, the fractal dimension of the geometric parameters calculated for the measured GVF was evaluated, confirming that this fractal dimension indeed decreased near the precursory signals of GEJE. The decrease in the fractal dimension representing geometric complexity suggests the emergence of a uniform and monotonous geometric state, indicating the possibility of features such as large flat fault planes. In deriving the geometric properties of GVF from GVF as a function of time, we utilized the characteristic of the CA that "geometric information at a certain point in time can be derived from temporal information at a fixed location".
Analysis of Direct Functionalization of Nanosilica with APTES for Application in Cementitious Composites
Authors: Silva Kleymer Henrique Pereira , Serafim Maria José de Souza , Paula Andreia , Fraga Yuri Sotero Bomfim , Rêgo João Henrique da Silva
Published: May 2024

Functionalized nanosilica is the product resulting from the surface treatment of nanosilica (NS) through the coupling of various functional groups on its surface, in order to reduce the negative effects related to its dispersion and high reactivity. The application of NSF in cementitious pastes can promote the development of a denser matrix, increasing the gain in strength and durability. This article has the objective of discussing the effects of direct functionalization of NS) with aminosilane from a colloidal NS and reagent 3 -aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), without using any chemical solvent. A first reaction was prepared with the reagents 4 mL of APTES, 100 mL of dichloromethane (H2CCl2) and 60 mL, forming NSF4. An alternative reaction process was developed, removing dichloromethane and without using any other solvent, forming NSF4WD. Some techniques were used to evaluate the efficiency of the reactions: pH, solids content, DLS, Zeta potential, XRD, TGA and FTIR. Portland cement pastes and mortars were produced to evaluate the effect of NS produced by the two different functionalization processes on hydration kinetics, porosity and compressive strength (at 1, 3, 7 and 28 days). The results showed that the use of dichloromethane in the functionalization process does not present significant contributions, since NSF4WD presented similar results to NSF4. It is concluded that the direct alternative method proved to be effective in grafting APTES onto the NS surface, in addition to meet the principles of Green Chemistry by not using toxic solvents, minimizing negative impacts on the environment and optimizing the functionalization process.
Evaluation of excess phase and bending angle data from FengYun-3 radio occultation based on two independent processing chains
Authors: Innerkofler Josef , Liu Congliang , Kirchengast Gottfried , Schwärz Marc , Meng Xiangguan , Bai Weihua , Hu Peng , Sun Yueqiang , Liao Mi , Hu Xiuqing
Published: May 2024

With long-term mission planning extending well into the next decade, the Chinese FengYun-3 (FY-3) meteorological satellite series acts as an important backbone for the provision of radio occultation (RO) data for climate science and numerical weather prediction (NWP). Independent evaluation is an essential part for considerate application of the data. Here we present results of the first cross-evaluation of RO low-level data, obtained by the GNSS occultation sounder (GNOS) onboard of FY-3 satellites, from two independent processing chains (Wegener Center, Graz; National Space Science Center–National Satellite Meteorological Center, Beijing). We analyzed and compared the orbit solutions, atmospheric excess phase, and bending angle profiles, for 3-month evaluation periods of FY-3C and FY-3D data in 2014 (FY-3C only) and 2019. We found the orbit data to be within requirements for high-quality RO data processing. Cross-comparison at excess phase level as well showed high-quality consistency overall, while some differences were revealed in the closed-loop to open-loop transition of FY-3D data. The cross-evaluation of bending angle profiles against European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) forecast data also showed good agreement and adequate quality in general, while some distinct deviations occurred below 26 km altitude in the early FY-3C rising event data in 2014. The results underscore the high basic quality of the GNOS data for applications in climate research and NWP. At the same time they valuably inform subsequent work to resolve remaining biases, improve current processing algorithms, and include data from FY-3E, FY-3F, and FY-3G satellites.
Effect of prior laser assisted in situ keratomileusis on the calibration accuracy of extended depth of focus intraocular lenses: a direct comparative study
Authors: Lin I-Hung , Chao Chen-Cheng , Chang Chao-Kai
Published: May 2024

Background
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is widely used to correct refractive errors in myopia and astigmatism. The choice of presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses (IOLs) for post-LASIK cataract surgery is a significant concern. However, few direct comparison studies exist between eyes with and without a history of LASIK. We analyzed the performance of extended depth of focus (EDOF) IOL implantation in these two groups.
Methods
This retrospective single-center study included patients with or without previous LASIK who underwent cataract surgery and EDOF Symfony IOL implantation, with \(\ge 1\) follow up. All patients underwent optical biometry using the IOLMaster (IOLMaster 500, Carl Zeiss). IOL power was calculated using the SRK/T formula for non-LASIK patients and the Haigis-L formula for LASIK patients. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA), refraction, and corneal tomography were recorded. The prediction error was the absolute difference between the postoperative sphere and the target refraction. The right eyes of patients who met the inclusion criteria were selected for analysis.
Results
Among the 331 recruited eyes, 18 underwent previous LASIK. After 1:3 age/sex matching, 17 LASIK and 49 non-LASIK eyes from 66 patients were analyzed. No significant preoperative differences existed in target refraction, spherical equivalent, or best-corrected visual acuity. All surgical procedures were uneventful. Non-inferiority tests showed that LASIK exhibited non-inferiority to non-LASIK for predictive refraction error and UNVA. Age/sex matched regression analysis results suggested that there was no UDVA superiority between the two groups.
Conclusion
Previous LASIK had no discernible effect on the visual performance of presbyopia-correcting EDOF IOLs with respect to the absolute refractive error, UNVA, and UDVA. For further validation, larger-scale or multicenter studies are required to ensure the robustness and generalizability of our results in diverse clinical settings.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06165796. Registered 4 December 2023 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06165796
Preparation of nursing students in nursing informatics competencies for future healthcare practice environment
Authors: Roux Loretta Le , Bimerew Million , Chipps Jennifer-Anne
Published: May 2024

Background: Rapid technology advancement highlights the importance for nursing education to prepare competent nurses in informatics. This study examined nursing informatics (NI) integration in an undergraduate curriculum and competency levels at a selected South African university.
Method: A survey measured NI competencies among undergraduate nursing students, followed by curriculum mapping to assess the inclusion of NI content in the undergraduate curriculum. Participants completed the TANIC© nursing informatics questionnaire. Demographics and activities underwent descriptive analysis. Mean scores out of 4 indicated competency levels from novice to proficient. 95% confidence intervals were computed for computer literacy, clinical information management, and information literacy domains. Independent Samples Wilcoxon U Tests compared competency level differences by year per domain. Curriculum mapping assessed technology-related activities across the four-year programme.
Results: Of 222 respondents (79.9% response rate), competence levels increased with year level, with computer literacy scoring highest (mean 3.33, ±0.48), nearing proficient levels, followed by information literacy (mean 2.81, ±0.68), falling within a comfortable competency range, and clinical information management, (mean 2.73, ±0.77) indicating advanced beginner competency. Curriculum mapping revealed the absence of information management.
Conclusion: A need exist to increase NI integration in the curriculum, and better equip nurse educators toprepare students for technologically infused healthcare environments.
A Clustering and Vector Angle-based Adaptive Evolutionary Algorithm for Multi-objective Optimization With Irregular Pareto Fronts
Authors: He Maowei , Zheng Hongxia , Chen Hanning , Wang Zhixue , Liu Xingguo , Xia Yelin , Wang Haoyue
Published: May 2024

In recent years, multi-objective optimization evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs) have been proven to be effective methods for solving multi-objective optimization problems (MOPs). However, most of existing MOEAs that are limited by the shape of the Pareto fronts (PFs) are only suitable for solving a certain type of problem. Therefore, in order to ensure the generality of the algorithm in practical applications and overcome the constraints brought by the shapes of PFs, a new adaptive MOEA (CAVA-MOEA) based on hierarchical clustering and vector angle to solve various MOPs with irregular PFs is proposed in this article. Firstly, a set of adaptive generated clustering centers is used to guide the population to converge quickly in many search directions. Secondly, the vector angle-based selection further exploits the potential of the clustering algorithm, which keeps a good balance between the diversity and convergence. The proposed CAVA-MOEA is tested and analyzed on 24 MOPs with regular PFs and 18 MOPs with irregular PFs. The results show that CAVA-MOEA has certain competitive advantages compared with other six advanced algorithms in solving MOPs with irregular PFs.
On the strong convergence of the forward-backward splitting algorithm for non-Lipschitz continuous convex optimization problems
Authors: guan weibo , Song wen
Published: May 2024

In this work, we investigate strong convergence of the sequences generated by the forward-backward splitting algorithm using a dynamic stepsize method or a regularized method for solving non-Lipschitz continuous minimization problem in Hilbert space. The main advantage of our algorithms is that the gradient of the function does not require Lipschitz continuous and does not use linesearch methods.
AMS Subject 46N10, 47H10, 65K10, 90C25, 90C30.
Alzheimer’s disease risk allele of PICALM causes detrimental lipid droplets in microglia
Authors: Duan Jubao , Kozlova Alena , Zhang Siwei , Sudwards Ari , Zhang Hanwen , Smirnou Stanislau , Sun Xiaotong , Stephenson Kimberly , Zhao Xiaojie , Jamison Brendan , Ponnusamy Moorthi , He Xin , Pang Zhiping , Sanders Alan , Bellen Hugo , Thinakaran Gopal
Published: May 2024

Despite genome-wide association studies of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) having identified many genetic risk loci 1-6, the underlying disease mechanisms remain largely unknown. Determining causal disease variants and their LOAD-relevant cellular phenotypes has been a challenge. Leveraging our approach for identifying functional GWAS risk variants showing allele-specific open chromatin (ASoC) 7, we systematically identified putative causal LOAD risk variants in human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived neurons, astrocytes, and microglia (MG) and linked PICALM risk allele to a previously unappreciated MG-specific role of PICALM in lipid droplet (LD) accumulation. ASoC mapping uncovered functional risk variants for 26 LOAD risk loci, mostly MG-specific. At the MG-specific PICALM locus, the LOAD risk allele of rs10792832 reduced transcription factor (PU.1) binding and PICALM expression, impairing the uptake of amyloid beta (Aβ) and myelin debris. Interestingly, MG with PICALM risk allele showed transcriptional enrichment of pathways for cholesterol synthesis and LD formation. Genetic and pharmacological perturbations of MG further established a causal link between the reduced PICALM expression, LD accumulation, and phagocytosis deficits. Our work elucidates the selective LOAD vulnerability in microglia for the PICALM locus through detrimental LD accumulation, providing a neurobiological basis that can be exploited for developing novel clinical interventions.
Genome-wide analysis of the SWEET gene family in Hemerocallis citrina and functional characterization of HcSWEET4a in response to salt stress
Authors: Cao Lihong , Wang Jinyao , Wang Lixuan , Liu Huili , Wu Wenjing , Hou Feifan , Liu Yuting , Gao Yang , Cheng Xiaojing , Li Sen , Xing Guoming
Published: May 2024

Sugars will be eventually effluxed transporter (SWEET), one of the sugar transporters in plants, plays significant roles in numerous biological processes and responding to abiotic stressors. However, the characteristics and functions of the SWEET genes in Hemerocallis citrina remain unclear and poorly elucidated. In this study, the whole genome of Hemerocallis citrina was utilized to conduct bioinformatics analysis and a total of 19 HcSWEET genes were successfully identified. Analysis of the physicochemical properties indicated dominant differences among these HcSWEETs. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that HcSWEET proteins can be divided into 4 clades ranging from Clade I to IV, where proteins within the same clade exhibited shared conserved motifs and gene structures. Five to six exons were contained in the majority of HcSWEET genes, which were unevenly distributed across 11 chromosomes. The gene duplication analysis showed the presence of 4 gene pairs. Comparative syntenic maps revealed that the HcSWEET gene family might present more closed homology in monocotyledons than dicotyledons. Cis-acting element analysis of HcSWEET genes indicated key responsiveness to various hormones, light, and stresses. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing analysis suggested that most HcSWEET genes had a relatively higher expression in roots, and HcSWEET4a was significantly up-regulated under salt stress. Overexpression further verified the possibility that HcSWEET4a is involved in response to salt stress, which provides novel insights and facilitates in-depth studies of the functional analysis of HcSWEETs in resistance to abiotic stress.
Intuitive or Deliberative Dishonesty: The effect of abstract versus concrete victim
Authors: Cheng Jiayu , Liu Yue , Wang Chongxiang , Sun Qingzhou , Verschuere Bruno , Sai Liyang
Published: May 2024

There is much debate on the question about whether people are intuitively honest or intuitively dishonest. A recent social harm account was proposed to address this debate: dishonesty is intuitive when cheating inflicts harm on an abstract other while honesty is intuitive when cheating inflicts harm on a concrete other. This pre-registered and well-powered study (n = 764) aims to directly test this account by using a time pressure manipulation. Specifically, we examined whether time pressure (vs. self-paced) leads to more cheating when there is an abstract victim, but not when there is a concrete victim. Results showed no effect of time pressure and/or harm type on cheating. Given the seemingly low replication rate in this field of study and the use of contested experimental manipulations our research calls for preregistered research to directly test the effects of time pressure and social harm on the intuitive nature of (dis-)honest behavior.
Heterogeneous Firms, Heterogeneous Labourers, Rural-Urban Migration and the Effect of Change in Cost of Migration
Authors: Chaudhuri Sravaitri , Bhattacharyya Ranajoy , Bhattacharya Sukanta
Published: May 2024

In this paper we set up a theoretical model of labour migration by extending the basic Harris Todaro (1970) model to incorporate the recent empirical findings on migration. We consider a closed developing economy with a dual structure. The urban formal sector has heterogenous firms producing varieties similar to the Melitz (2003) framework but with skill, wage and quality hierarchy. There is an urban informal sector producing an inferior good and a rural sector producing an essential good. The labourers are heterogeneous as well and there is both skilled and unskilled migration. Finally, in this structure we observe the effect of an infrastructural development policy in the form of reduction in fixed cost of migration. We find that both the sectors in the urban area expands while the rural sector shrinks. Furthermore, both skilled and unskilled migration increases. So, encouraging migration through infrastructural development by reducing cost of migration is beneficial as it leads to urbanisation.
JEL Classification: J24, J61, L22
Comparing Rainfall Prediction at Various Time Scales and Rainfall Interpolation at the Regional Scale Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Liao Zhou , Li Mei
Published: May 2024

Precipitation prediction has important applications in a variety of industries, including agriculture, water conservation, and transportation. In previous study, analyses of rainfall prediction were rarely carried out separately from the spatial and temporal scales. The rainfall data of every observation point in Zhejiang Province in 2015 were compared on a spatial scale using Inverse Distance Weighted Interpolation (IDW), Kringing Interpolation, Moving Cube Interpolation (MC), Natural Neighbour Decomposition Interpolation (MSM), Nearest Neighbour Interpolation (NeaN), and Bilinear Interpolation (NN) in order to study the distribution trend of rainfall in the provincial area. The daily and monthly rainfall projections were simulated on a temporal scale using historical precipitation data from a Zhejiang Province observation site covering 30 years, from 1990 to 2020, as an example, using the RBFN and BP models. It is verified that the simulation and interpolation results generated by the two processes are accurate. In the realm of rainfall prediction, artificial neural networks (ANN) offer some advantages over the conventional classical interpolation method. Nevertheless, ANN is also constrained by nonlinear rainfall characteristics, training time, computational complexity, and the arrangement and quantity of meteorological stations, among other factors. The findings show that RBFN outperforms the BP model in rainfall simulation, particularly when it comes to predicting longer time horizons. The essay concludes with a discussion of the possible applications and future prospects of artificial neural networks (ANN) in the field of rainfall prediction at both geographical and temporal dimensions.
Conditions for late gadolinium enhancement MRI in myocardial infarction model rats that better reflect microscopic tissue staining
Authors: Junpei Ueda , Yabata Isamu , Itagaki Koji , Sawaya Reika , Banura Natsuo , Saito Shigeyoshi , Karata Hayato , Ota Miwa , Murata Chiharu , Nishida Hiroyuki
Published: May 2024

Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) is a widely used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method for assessing cardiac disease. However, the relationship between different LGE signal thresholds and microscopic tissue staining images is unclear. In this study, we performed cardiovascular MRI on myocardial infarction (MI) model rats and evaluated the relationship between LGE with different signal thresholding methods and tissue staining images. We prepared 16 rats that underwent MRI 14–18 days following a surgery to create an MI model. We captured cine and LGE images of the cardiac short-axis and longitudinal two- and four-chamber views. The mean ± 2SD, ± 3SD, and ± 5SD of the pixel values in the non-infarcted area were defined as the LGE area. We compared areas of Sirius red staining, determined by the color tone, with their respective LGE areas at end-diastole and end-systole. We observed that the LGE area calculated as the mean ± 2SD of the non-infarcted area at end-diastole demonstrated a significant positive correlation with the area of Sirius red staining (Pearson's correlation coefficient in both: 0.81 [p < 0.01]). Therefore, the LGE area calculated as the mean ± 2SD of the non-infarcted area at end-diastole reflected best the MI area in tissue staining.
Study on the killing effect of natural killer cells combined with ATF-Fc recombinant protein on uPAR high-expressing cell lines
Authors: Tang Tianci , Ye Xueshuai , Li Yang , Liu Guan , Cai Jianhui
Published: May 2024

Aging and cancer are interconnected, with studies suggesting that the aging-related secretory phenotype can induce transformation between epithelial and stromal cells, as well as tumor angiogenesis. This connection suggests the feasibility of a treatment strategy that simultaneously targets tumor cells and aging cells. Urine plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is highly expressed in both tumor and aging cells but lowly expressed in normal cells, making it a common target for anti-aging and anti-cancer therapies. This study aims to discuss an engineered antibody that, when combined with NK cells, exerts antibody-dependent cytotoxicity to clear cells with high uPAR expression. An ATF-Fc fusion protein, constructed by linking the uPAR ligand urokinase plasminogen activator (upa) binding domain (ATF) to the human IgG1 Fc fragment, was used to evaluate the killing effect of the combined antibody and NK cells on cells with high uPAR expression. In vitro experiments showed that ATF-Fc could specifically bind to cells overexpressing uPAR and promote their apoptosis. Animal experiments also confirmed the killing effect of ATF-Fc, which was enhanced when combined with NK cells. ATF-Fc antibody inhibited the proliferation of cells with high uPAR expression, with the synergistic killing effect of this antibody combined with NK cells being particularly significant.
Stochastic dynamics mass spectrometric determination of ferrocenes
Authors: Ivanova Bojidarka
Published: May 2024

The paper treats stochastic dynamics mass spectrometric formulas of exact data-processing of measurands; thus, answering a question: How can be inferred reliably analyte identification and annotation from mass spectrometric measurands when omics-methods produce comparable performances among structurally similar analytes? Omics-methods are treated in context of instrumental measurements and data-processing. Exact quantitative and multi-dimensional structural mass spectrometric-based methods for metabolomics contributes crucially to understand biochemical mechanisms, because of metabolites are downstream biochemical products in living systems. Reliable metabolomics provides in-depth knowledge of response within biological fluids and tissues depending on internal and external agents, which is crucial for real time monitoring of human diseases. The study deals with structural analysis of ferroquine and its metabolites in human hepatic models utilizing ultra-high accuracy mass spectrometry, static and molecular dynamics quantum chemical approaches, and chemometrics. It provides excellent-to-exact performances in examining standard organometallics ferrocene and [FeII(L)(CO)2(CH3CN)] (L = 2-(5-oxo-4,6-bis-trimethylsilanyl-3,5-dihydro-1H-cyclopenta[c]pyrrol-2-yl)-ethanesulfonic acid) (|r|=0.99992.) The analysis of ferroquine and its metabolites show |r|=0.99815–0.90814.
Mathematical Modelling on Extraction Types and Characterizations of Olea europaea Leaves; Their Antioxidant Performance in Bio-actives and Phenolic Profile by LC-MS/MS
Authors: KARAOGUL Eyyup , NEDJIP Gjulten
Published: May 2024

The bioactive properties of olive leaf extract (OLE) were investigated using various extraction methods, including microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), conventional extraction (CE), and maceration (Mc). Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize extraction parameters such as microwave power and time. RSM optimization revealed the influence of extraction types, independent variables, and their interactions on yield, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and CUPRAC assays) of OLE. The coefficient equation models (CEM, P < .01 and P < .0001) demonstrated high reliability (Rexp2:0.75–0.93, Radj2:0.69–0.9), with non-significant lack of fit (P > .05) and significant F values (P < .05). The model coefficients and analysis of variance (MCA) were significant between P < .05 and P < .0001. Watt power was identified as a more significant parameter than time. IC50 (half maximal inhibitory concentration) values for DPPH/ABTS ranged from 8.57 to 14.80 mg/L, with the highest antioxidant activity observed in Mc. TPC and TFC ranged from 85.21 to 169.20 mg GAE/g dry and 1.49 to 111.98 mg Qrc/g dry, respectively, with MAE yielding the highest polyphenol content. LC-MS/MS analysis identified eight major components in OLE, primarily Oleuropein and Quercetin, whose concentrations varied with extraction methods. The optimized conditions for CE (t = 30 min) and MAE (t = 30 min/350 W) were determined with desirabilities of 91.1% and 82.2%, respectively. Overall, extraction method, time, and watt significantly influenced response variables (p < 0.05).
Exploring Obesity Management as a Novel Approach for Preventing Inguinal Hernias: Evidence from a Mendelian Randomization Study and Systematic Review
Authors: Deng Zhizhi , Zhou Zhenhua , Zhang Xuan , Xiao Zhongsheng , Xiao Shuai , Huang Qiulin , Yi Xianhao
Published: May 2024

Background: The relationship between obesity and the risk of developing inguinal hernias (IH) is still unclear. This study aimed to examine the role of different types of obesity in IH risk, with the potential for obesity management as a new approach to preventing IH.
Methods: A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and replicated MR analysis were conducted to assess the causal effect of obesity on IH risk. Summary data on genetically determined obesity-related traits, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), were collected from large-scale consortia. Multivariable MR was performed to estimate the independent effects on IH risk. Additionally, a systematic review of observational studies identified from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases was conducted to evaluate the associations between different obesity types and IH, covering the period from inception to November 22, 2023.
Results: The findings revealed that increased BMI, WC, and HC (P < 0.05) were associated with a lower risk of IH. The replicated and multivariable MR analyses consistently indicated that BMI exhibited a similar direction and magnitude of effect as observed in the univariable MR analysis [odds ratio (OR) = 0.940-0.989], while WC was associated with a higher risk of IH (OR = 1.018-1.099). The systematic review results supported BMI as a protective factor against inguinal hernia. However, there was limited evidence supporting the causal role of HC and WHR in IH risk.
Conclusion: Genetically determined BMI and WC demonstrate a causal relationship with IH risk, providing new insights into potential underlying mechanisms. These results suggest that increasing overall or reducing abdominal obesity may be beneficial for preventing IH.
Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) induced corrosion in Zn-Ni-Cu and Zn-Ni-Cu- TiB 2 coated ASTM A-36 Steel
Authors: Ali Sheikh Idrees , nazir sheikh
Published: May 2024

The study aimed to investigate the corrosion performance of Zn-Ni-Cu and Zn-Ni-Cu-TiB2 coatings in the microbial-induced environment (E-Coli, ATCC 25922, and 3.5%NaCl solution). Zn-Ni-Cu and Zn-Ni-Cu-TiB2 were surfaces coated on an ASTM A-36 Steel substrate utilizing a high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) thermal spray process. Immersion tests following ASTM G-31, and ASTM G1-03, standards were performed in Escherichia Coli (E-Coli, American Type Culture CollectionATCC25922) bacteria medium.The effect of Zn, Ni, and Ti was studied in preventing microbial-induced corrosion.SEM, and XRD analysis before and after helped to understand the morphological and structural changes in coated/uncoated ASTM A-36 steel. Various forms of rust were ascertained in XRD analysis. The presence of Zn and Cu prevented the bacterial attachment with coated surface and hence prevented the underlying substrate from being corroded substantially.The coatings performed well and limited the growth of bacteria. The uncoated ASTM A-36 Steel specimen showed well-developed bacterial colonies on the surface and in the solution medium. All forms of rust were reported in XRD analysis for uncoated ASTM A-36 steel while few forms of rust were reported in coated ASTM A-36 steel.Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in Escherichia Coli (E-Coli, ATCC 25922) medium confirmed that coated samples were more corrosion resistant than uncoated ASTM A-36 Steel specimens because of the corrosion potential (Ecorr) values of both coated samples were higher than uncoated ASTM A-36 Steel suggesting better anodic protection. The corrosion current density (Icorr) of both coated samples (Zn-Ni-Cu and Zn-Ni-Cu-TiB2) were lower than uncoated ASTM A-36 Steel specimens also inferring better performance.Results of the current study concluded that Zn-Ni-Cu-TiB2 coated ASTM A-36 Steel was able to enhance the microbial-induced corrosion resistance without deteriorating the microstructural, adhesion strength, and other properties of the coating. The mass loss for both Zn-Ni-Cu and Zn-Ni-Cu-TiB2 coatings was 88% less compared to uncoated ASTM A-36 Steel. It is seen from scanning electron micrographs that the coatings produced were well-developed with minimum pores and cracks. After immersion cycle tests none of the coatings showed delamination or microbial colony attachment to the surface compared to ASTM A-36 Steel wherein degradation of the whole surface is visible along with corrosion in the interface.
Enhanced Aerobic Methane Oxidation: Influence of Ammonium Introduction and Complete Nitrification Coupling on Metabolic Activity
Authors: Xu Qiyong , Bai Xinyue , Huang Dandan , Yang Wanli , Yue Yuanmao , Wang Ning , Zhang Ruijie , Wu Jiang
Published: May 2024

The biological process of methane (CH4) oxidation is crucial for reducing fugitive CH4 emissions into the atmosphere. Within the nitrogen cycle, ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3-) significantly influence the growth and activity of methane-oxidizing bacteria (MOB). However, the stimulatory effects of NH4+ and NO3- on aerobic CH4 oxidation and the associated metabolic remain to be comprehensively elucidated. In this study, NH4+ and NO3- were loaded onto zeolites and mixed with MOB-rich soil to conduct CH4 incubation experiments. The CH4 oxidation rate and metabolomic changes during the second cycle, characterized by distinct MOB activities, were determined. The NH4+-added group showed a significant increase in the CH4 oxidation rate (up to 1.25 mg CH4·g-1·d-1) compared with the NO3--added group. Analysis of the microbial community and metabolomics revealed that NH4+ stimulated the population of two electroactive bacterial Clostridia and Thermincolales within the Firmicutes phylum. On the metabolic level, NH4+ was noted to promote nucleotide and active amino acid metabolic pathways. Nitrospirota drove the synthesis of glucogenic and ketogenic amino acids, which could be used by the MOB in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Additionally, this study clarified the plausible interplay between nitrification and the CH4 oxidation process. These insights could help enhance our understanding of the interaction between the global nitrogen cycle and aerobic CH4 oxidation.
Private Supplementary Tutoring in Cambodia Educational System: What Matters for Policies?
Authors: Sam Rany
Published: May 2024

In Cambodia, as in many ASEAN countries, private supplementary tutoring, also known as 'shadow education,' is a significant component of the educational landscape. This chapter examines the root causes of shadow education in Cambodia, the challenges it poses, and the effectiveness of existing policies aimed at regulating this sector. Through semi-structured interviews with 21 principals and teachers, the study identifies key drivers of shadow education, including inadequate formal education, insufficient resources, regulatory gaps, and teachers’ low salaries. The findings indicate a widespread reliance on private tutoring to compensate for these deficiencies, which exacerbates educational inequalities. The chapter concludes with targeted recommendations for students, parents, educators, and policymakers, underscoring the critical need for robust and effective regulatory frameworks to address the challenges of shadow education and to enhance the quality and equity of Cambodia's educational system
Fake News Detection with Large Language Models on the LIAR Dataset
Authors: Boissonneault David , Hensen Emily
Published: May 2024

The widespread dissemination of fake news poses a significant threat to the integrity of information. Detecting fake news with high accuracy is crucial for maintaining the integrity of information in the digital age. The evaluation of ChatGPT and Google Gemini models for this task has revealed their substantial capabilities in discerning the veracity of statements, highlighting their potential to mitigate the spread of misinformation. Using the LIAR benchmark dataset, the study demonstrated high performance metrics across accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and AUC-ROC, emphasizing the effectiveness of these models in real-world applications. The comparative analysis and error examination provided insights into the strengths and limitations of each model, offering valuable guidance for future enhancements. Practical implications include the integration of these models into fact-checking systems to improve content verification processes, supporting media organizations and social platforms in their efforts to combat misinformation. The findings prove the importance of ongoing research and development to refine and optimize LLMs, ensuring their continued relevance and efficacy in addressing the challenges posed by fake news.
Designing Self-Sustained Hydrogel Electrolytes for Aqueous, Transparent, and Flexible Batteries
Authors: Assis Renan , Ramos Maria , Zarbin Aldo
Published: May 2024

The arrival of aqueous sodium-ion batteries has been an essential sustainable advancement in energy storage devices. The use of electrolytes based on polymeric hydrogel is emerging due to the facility in which they can be obtained as film, flexibility, and high ionic conductivity. Additionally, these electrolytes have a dual purpose by acting also as separators. This work deals with the preparation and characterization of hydrogels based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), sodium chloride (NaCl), and boric acid (H3BO3) to be used as electrolytes in transparent and flexible aqueous sodium-ion batteries. It was observed that lower amounts of NaCl yielded transparent and conductive gels, while increasing the amount of NaCl yielded translucent samples, due to the non-dissolved NaCl. The preparation, gelation step and electrode deposition were optimized to achieve the maximum transparency and conductivity. Subsequently, the selected electrolyte was applied in symmetric devices based on transparent nanocomposite films as electrodes. These devices demonstrated both high transparency and grand current rates. Furthermore, the performance of the electrolyte was verified in a flexible and symmetrical device, revealing an increased current, indicating improved electrode/electrolyte contact. This observation underscores the efficacy of hydrogels in enhancing device performance, particularly in flexible configurations.
Sex and age factors of mental development of children born to mothers with epilepsy
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Mikhailova Nadezhda , Krasko Anastasia ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: May 2024

Mother’s epilepsy is a risk factor for the neurocognitive development of the child, since it belongs to a group of chronic diseases and constant medication, even during pregnancy, is a Author for correspondence. 46 Вестник СПбГУ. Психология. 2024. Т. 14. Вып. 1 vital for patients with epilepsy. It carries various risks, which include intrauterine growth restrictions, congenital malformations, negative effects on cognitive functions and an increased risk of mental retardation of the child. That is why the bulk of research is focused on the effect of certain antiepileptic drugs on the physical development of the child. However, researchers rarely carry out comprehensive assessment of the influence of prenatal, perinatal and age-related factors of the child’s development, and this area remains unstudied. This article presents the results of a study of sex and age factors of mental development and adaptation of children born to mothers with epilepsy. The study involved 176 people: 88 children aged from 3 to 9 years and their mothers suffering from epilepsy. As a result, it was found that the male fetus was more vulnerable to prenatal influences: boys had more pronounced disorders of mental development (motor awkwardness, hyperactivity, attention deficit, oral speech disorders) and adaptation (socialization disorders, emotional-volitional disorders, aggressiveness and oppositional reactions, behavior problems). Some of disorders of mental development (delay in the development of speech, praxis and logical thinking) were compensated with child’s age and secondary disorders — adaptation problems (socialization disorders, somatic and internalization problems, isolation and anxiety) became more significant. Disorders of mental development in children are caused not only by the toxic effects of medication taken by the mother, but also depend on the form and severity of mother’s epilepsy before and during pregnancy, her concomitant diseases, as well as the type of feeding of the child in the first year of life.
Fears of modern preschool children in a sociocultural context
Authors:   Pacific State Medical University, Dovgaya Natalia , Malyh Anna ,   Pacific State Medical University, Garmashova Ekaterina ,   Pacific State Medical University
Published: May 2024

The study is devoted to the problem of exposure of the senior preschool age children to various kinds of fears in connection with the sociocultural context, which is understood as a factor of the macroenvironment. The beginning of the 2020s is associated with large-scale events that have a significant impact on the life and well-being of the population. This is the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021) and the aggravation of the socio-political situation in the world (2022–2023). The study involved 127 children aged 5–6 years attending preschool educational organizations, who were offered the “Fears in the Houses” methodology by A. I. Zakharov and M. A. Panfilova. Data from a parent survey and analysis of documentation from preschool educational organizations were also used. It was found that the profiles of fears of children examined in 2019, 2021 and 2023 are quite similar; most of the identified fears in modern preschoolers correspond to age standards for children 5–7 years of age according to A. I. Zakharov, which allows us to talk about the universality of the age-related patterns and reasons for the appearance of fears in children described by him. The specificity of the cultural and historical context of modern childhood has manifested itself in the fact that the list of frightening characters has changed significantly: the heroes of virtual games in the horror genre are replacing the heroes of traditional children’s fairy tales. A comparative analysis of the results obtained in 2019, 2021 and 2023 confirmed the greater exposure to fears of preschoolers during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the absence of an increase in the number of fears in children amid the worsening geopolitical situation in the world. It was found that during the pandemic, not only the number of specific medical fears in children increased, but also the number of fears that are not directly related to illness and death increased, which demonstrates the substitutive nature of fears in children and is of great importance for practical psychology.
Personal and social factors of stress perception by senior adolescent boys and girls
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Danilova Marina
Published: May 2024

At present, due to the speed and intensity of modern life and the high stressfulness of events and situations, scientific interest in the study of stress and factors that allow to constructively overcome them has seriously increased. Purpose: to study the contribution of personal and social characteristics to the perception of stress in senior adolescence. Hypothesis: boys and girls manifest the parameters of stress perception differently: overstrain as an emotional component and hardiness to stress as an instrumental component. For girls, the perceived stress is more closely related to their personal characteristics, and for boys it’s associated with social ones. In general, in the period from 15 to 17 years, personal characteristics contribute more to the ability to reduce or increase intensity of stress, and social characteristics contribute to the activation of efforts to counteract stress. A sample of 90 senior adolescents aged 15–17 was divided into two groups: 45 boys and 45 girls. Methods: the scale of perceived stress (ShVS-10, adaptation by Ababkov et al.); the scale of personal anxiety A.M.Prikhozhan; S.Muddy’s hardiness questionnaire (Leont’ev, Rasskazova’s adaptation); K.Riff ’s psychological well-being scales (Troshikhina, adaptation by Zhukovskaya); G. Sommer and T.Fydrich’s perceived social support questionnaire (adaptation by Kholmogorova, Petrova). Correlation and regression analysis was carried out. The study showed gender characteristics and differences in the perception of stress, which are manifested in a subjectively more intense and active experience of stress by girls compared to their peers boys. Data have been obtained on the greater contribution of individual-personal characteristics to the perception of stress in general and to such a component as overstrain in particular. It is also shown that in counteracting stress, along with personal characteristics, the factor of social support also plays a significant role.
Parental burnout, post-traumatic growth and social support for mothers of children with disabilities
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Savenysheva Svetlana , Razygraeva Yulia ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: May 2024

The article is devoted to the study of level indicators and the relationship between parental burnout, perceived stress, post-traumatic growth and social support in mothers of children with disabilities. The study involved 73 women, aged from 27 to 44 years (average age 36.15 years), raising children with severe chronic diseases aged 3 to 10 years (average age 7 years, average duration of the disease — 4 years, chronic the disease must have been detected in the child at least 1.5 years ago). Methods: Questionnaire “Perceived Stress Scale — 10” adapted by V.A.Ababkov; social support questionnaire “F-SOZU-22” developed by G. Som- mer, T.Fydrich, 1993 and adapted by A.B.Kholmogorova, N.G.Garanyan, G.A.Petrova; Pa- rental burnout questionnaire by I.N.Efimova; Post-traumatic growth questionnaire by R.Tedeschi, L.Calhoun, adapted by M. Sh. Magomed-Eminov. The study found high levels of perceived stress, average levels of parental burnout and post-traumatic growth, and below average levels of social support among mothers of children with disabilities. Close relations between social support and post-traumatic growth, social support and stress, and parental burnout were revealed, while relations were found between indicators of post-traumatic growth and parental burnout and stress with only one indicator of post-traumatic growth — “personal strength”. Emotional support, satisfaction with support, and subjective marital satisfaction were predictors of parental burnout and stress, and social integration was a predictor of post-traumatic growth. For mothers to cope with the stress associated with a child’s chronic illness, as well as post-traumatic growth, social support is the most important factor.