bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acceptance and utilization of web-based self-help for caregivers of children with externalizing disorders
Authors: Wähnke Laura , Plück Julia , Bodden Mikel , Ernst Angela , Klemp Marie-Theres , Mühlenmeister Judith , Döpfner Manfred
Published: August 2023

Background.
Web-based self-help interventions for parents of children with ADHD and other externalizing disorders have been proven to be effective. In order to recommend individualized and optimized interventions, a better understanding of the acceptance and utilization of this innovative treatment approach is needed. Previous research has frequently employed subjective reports of utilization, but the validity of these studies may be limited.
Methods.
Data from the German WASH study were used. Participants (n = 276) were randomly assigned to the intervention condition (a) web-based self-help or (b) web-based self-help with optional telephone-based support calls. Data collection took place at baseline (T1) and 12 weeks later (T2). Utilization data were tracked using a log file generated for each participant at T2. Prediction models were calculated using CART (Classification and Regression Trees), a method known mostly from the field of machine learning.
Results.
Acceptance of the intervention was very high and the average number of logins corresponded to recommendations. Predictors of acceptance and predictors of utilization were similar and included, e.g., child’s externalizing symptoms, parental psychopathology, and above all additional telephone-based support by counselors.
Conclusions.
Through a detailed identification of acceptance and utilization, and the predictors thereof, we were able to gain a better understanding of the acceptance and utilization of web-assisted self-help for a parent management intervention in the treatment of children with ADHD and ODD. These findings can be used to recommend web-based interventions to particularly suitable families. It should be noted that some form of support is required for an intensive engagement with the content of the program.
Trial Registration:
The protocol of the study (German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00013456 conducted on January 3rd, 2018) was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University Hospital, Cologne.
The Physiographic Environment Classification: Decoding Water Quality Landscapes through Hydrochemical Conceptualization
Authors: Rissmann Clinton Wayne Francis , Pearson Lisa Kyle , Snelder Ton Hugh
Published: August 2023

Spatial variation in the landscape factors climate, geomorphology, and lithology cause significant differences in water quality issues related to land use. The Physiographic Environment Classification (PEC) distinguishes these differences by classifying the landscape's susceptibility to contaminant loss according to the factors that control the hydrochemical maturation of water. PEC accounts for the landscape's ability to generate, retain, attenuate, and transport multiple contaminants, including particulate and dissolved substances. A case study application of the PEC method to New Zealand utilized topographic data and geological survey to classify the country into six classes at Level l (Climate), 36 classes at Level 1–2 (Climate + Geomorphology), and 320 classes at Level 1–3 (Climate + Geomorphology + Lithology). Variance partitioning analysis, applied to New Zealand's national surface water monitoring network (n = 810 stations), evaluated the unique contributions of PEC classes and land use to six water quality variables. Relative to land use, PEC explained 0.6 times (x) the variation in NNN, 1.0x (i.e., the exact quantum of variability as land use) TKN, 1.8x DRP, 2.3x PP, 2.6x E. coli, and 4.3x TURB. Across the six water quality variables, PEC explained 2.1x more variation in riverine contaminant concentrations than land use. After controlling for land use, water quality variables varied significantly between PEC categories and classes (p < 0.05), with the pattern of differences consistent with the conceptual model underlying the classification. Because PEC elucidates the underlying causes of contaminant loss susceptibility, it can be used to inform targeted land management across multiple scales.
Medication Overuse Headache is Associated with Elevated Lipopolysaccharide Binding Protein and Pro-inflammatory Molecules in the Bloodstream
Authors: Dağıdır Hale Gök , Topa Elif , Vurallı Doğa , Bolay Hayrunnisa
Published: August 2023

Objective:
Medication overuse headache (MOH) is secondary headache that accompanies chronic migraine and NSAIDs are the most frequently use analgesics in the word. NSAIDs are known to induce leaky gut and we aimed to investigate whether NSAID induced MOH is associated with altered circulating LBP levels and inflammatory molecules.
Materials and Methods:
Piroxicam (10 mg /kg, po) for 5 weeks was used to induce MOH in female Sprague Dawley rats. Pain was tested by evaluating periorbital von Frey thresholds, grooming, freezing and headshake behavior. Serum samples and brain tissues were collected to measure circulating LPS binding protein (LBP), tight junction protein occludin, adherence junction protein vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin, CGRP, IL-6, levels. HMGB1 and IL-17 were determined in brain tissues.
Results:
Chronic piroxicam exposure resulted in decreased periorbital mechanical thresholds, increased grooming, freezing and headshake behavior compared to vehicle administration. Serum LBP, CGRP, IL-6, IL-17, occludin, VE-cadherin levels and brain IL-17 and HMGB1 levels were significantly higher in piroxicam group compared to controls. Serum LBP was correlated positively with occludin (r = 0.611), VE-cadherin (r = 0.588), CGRP (r = 0.706), HMGB1 (r = 0.618), headshakes (r = 0.921), and negatively with von Frey thresholds (r=-0.740).
Conclusion:
Chronic piroxicam induced MOH is associated with elevated serum LPS, VE- cadherin and occludin levels indicating disrupted intestinal barrier function and leakage of LPS into the systemic circulation. LPS induced low-grade inflammation and elevated nociceptive and/or pro-inflammatory molecules of HMGB1, IL-6, IL-17, CGRP and may play a role in development and maintaining of MOH. Interference with leaky gut and pro- inflammatory nociceptive molecules could also be a target for sustained management of MOH.
Nt-probnp as a Screening for Low-risk Patent Ductus Arteriousus: a Follow-up Validation Study
Authors: López-Blanco Gloria , Oulego-Erroz Ignacio , Pou-Blázquez Álvaro , Medina-Guerrero Carlos , Rodríguez-Blanco Silvia , Alonso-Quintela Paula , Pérez-Muñuzuri Alejandro , Couce-Pico María Luz
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To test whether NT-proBNP serves as a screening for low-risk patent ductus arteriosus and safely avoids routine early echocardiography.
Methods: Prospective observational study in preterm infants below 33 weeks of gestational age. Infants with >5100 pg/ml (positive screening) at 48-72 hours of life received comprehensive echocardiography and were treated according to shunt severity. Infants with NT-proBNP below 5100 pg/ml (negative screening) were managed expectantly. The main outcome was need for ductus treatment within the first 7 days of life.
Result: 125 infants were included; 82 had a negative and positive NT-proBNP screening respectively. No infant (0%) with a negative screening was treated for ductus while 26 (60.4%) with a positive screening were treated (p<0.001). NT-proBNP avoided a 65.6% of routine echocardiograms. NT-proBNP had an excellent performance to predict treatment (AUC=0.967)
Conclusions: NT-proBNP at 48-72 hours of life has an excellent performance to detect low-risk and avoids unnecessary echocardiograms. This may contribute to optimize PDA management in terms of resource utilization.
The three-dimensional arrangement of the cathode weakens the bubble aggregation during the electrochemical water softening reaction
Authors: Lin Wei , Xiang Jin , Wang Wei , Xin Zuqiang , Xiang Yong , Pan Chuanhong , Xu Jianmin , Yu Jiuyang , Gong Cheng
Published: August 2023

In the application of electrochemical water softening technology, bubbles on the electrode surface during growth and detachment can accumulate into a dense bubble film on the electrode surface, which significantly affects the softening efficiency. This work introduces a spatially arranged cathode to solve the problem of bubble accumulation in electrochemical water softening technology. Experimental results show that the spatial arrangement of the cathode weakens the accumulation of bubbles and is conducive to the softening reaction. Bubble accumulation occurs when bubbles, after detachment, are influenced by factors such as electrode structure and water flow rate during the rising process, which limits the detachment and migration of new bubbles and ions. The spatially arranged cathode shortens the distance that bubbles rise along the electrode surface in the vertical direction, and the result shows that the bubble distribution is more dispersed, and the ion migration capability is enhanced. This study provides a new development idea for electrochemical water softening technology.
Structural Inference on the Inverse Weibull Distribution Based on Generalized Order Statistics
Authors: Maswadah M.
Published: August 2023

In this paper, structural inference has been applied to the inverse Weibull distribution for constructing probability intervals on parameters and reliability functions based on generalized order statistics via Monte Carlo simulation. The coverage rate and the covering symmetry of the structural intervals have been obtained for different values of the shape parameter. Measuring the efficiencies of the inferences from complete data is compared to censored data. Finally, a numerical example is given to clarify the use of the inferential method developed in this paper.
Fruitlet Thinning Improves Juice Quality in Seven High-tannin Cider Cultivars
Authors: Zakalik David L. , Brown Michael G. , Peck Gregory M.
Published: August 2023

Over 3 years (2016–18), tree productivity, biennial bearing, return bloom, and fruit quality were evaluated for seven high-tannin cider apple (Malus ×domestica Borkh.) cultivars. Five treatments were evaluated on each of the seven cultivars: hand-thinned of all fruit (a zero crop load treatment); hand-thinned to crop densities of three, six, or nine fruit/cm2 trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA); or left unthinned. In this paper, we report on the fruit maturity and juice quality properties that were analyzed for the three nonzero crop load treatments and the unthinned control. The effects of crop load on fruit maturity, as measured by starch pattern index and preharvest drop, were cultivar dependent. Crop density (fruit/cm2 TCSA) had a significant effect on all fruit maturity and juice quality variables, although effects were weakest in the “off” year (2017) for the whole planting when initial fruit set was low. As crop density increased, total poly phenols, titratable acidity, soluble solids, and primary amino nitrogen decreased in the juice of all seven cultivars. A partial budget analysis indicated that the reduced costs of nitrogen supplements due to increased primary amino nitrogen concentration alone would not justify cost of chemical or hand-thinning. By extrapolating the spring flowering density in the fourth year to potential fruit yields at harvest, we found that reducing crop load was projected to increase cumulative total polyphenol yields per tree over the long term. For the cultivars in this experiment, a target crop density of nine fruit/cm2 was found to adequately decrease biennial bearing while also not diminishing juice quality for hard cider production. High-tannin cider apple growers should consider juice quality, particularly tannin production, when making crop load management decisions.
Radiofrequency Identification Tagging in Ornamental Shrubs: An Application in Rose
Authors: Luvisi Andrea , Panattoni Alessandra , Bandinelli Roberto , Rinaldelli Enrico , Pagano Mario , Gini Barbara , Manzoni Giorgio , Triolo Enrico
Published: August 2023

Plant tagging using radiofrequency identification (RFID) microchips is attractive for ornamental shrubs, such as rose (Rosa spp.), due to their high market value, wide distribution, health certification system, and numerous uses. Differently from other woody species for which methods of microchip implantation have been tested, rose tagging requires the possibility of insertion within canes of less than 10 mm diameter, such as those typically found in the rose nursery setting. Moreover, the possibility of tagging after grafting without changing common plant production procedures and aesthetic value are important considerations. Toward this aim, a new method of microchip insertion was developed. To test its effects on roses, two cultivars were subjected to a tagging procedure, and histological observations of tissues around the microchip and growth analysis of plant canes were performed. Microchip implantation did not cause xylem necrosis in 8- to 9-mm-diameter canes, but in lower diameter canes wilt of the lateral shoot and detriments in growth were observed compared with control plants. The tagged roses were tracked by a database developed for rose information, field log, and botanical sheet retrieval. Our findings suggest that rose plants can be safely tagged with a RFID microchip following suitable selection of cane calliper as early as the nursery phase without negative effects on plant appearance.
A Software Tool for Teaching Backcross Breeding Simulation
Authors: Fita Ana , Tarín Néstor , Prohens Jaime , Rodríguez-Burruezo Adrián
Published: August 2023

Plant breeding programs involve multiple steps, and their complete development cannot be experienced by students in a single academic year. Tools of communication and information technologies offer a great opportunity to improve students' skills, but only a few software are available for training undergraduate students in plant breeding programs. Here we present a student-friendly software tool, Retromelon, for simulating the backcross breeding method. We also evaluate its suitability and performance as a learning tool. This software is designed to recreate a real melon (Cucumis melo) backcross breeding program aimed at introgressing the resistance to melon vine decline from the tolerant melon cultivar Pat81 into the susceptible cultivar Piel de Sapo. The software simulates the most important steps and decisions that must be made by a plant breeder in a backcross breeding program, including the number of individuals to evaluate in each generation, evaluation of agronomic traits, and selection of individuals. This software is being used by undergraduate horticulture students. Our results have shown that the use of this tool in the classroom increases the motivation of the students, and therefore, benefits the learning process. This software is available upon request both in English and Spanish versions.
Modification of Switchgrass Substrate pH Using Compost, Peatmoss, and Elemental Sulfur
Authors: Altland James E. , Krause Charles
Published: August 2023

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) biomass is being evaluated as a potential alternative to pine bark as the primary potting component in containerized nursery crops. Substrates composed entirely of switchgrass have higher pH than what is considered desirable in container substrates. The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of elemental S, sphagnum moss, and municipal solid waste compost (MSC) as amendments for reducing substrate pH and buffering it against large changes over time. Three experiments were conducted; the first two experiments were conducted using annual vinca (Catharanthus roseus ‘Pacifica Blush’) to quickly assess how pH was affected by the three amendments, and the final experiment was conducted with blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Duke’) to assess the long-term effects of substrate amendments. Summarizing across the three experiments, elemental S was effective in reducing substrate pH; however, rates 1 lb/yard3 or greater reduced pH below the recommended level of 5.5 and lower S rates did not maintain lowered pH over time. Sphagnum moss and MSC together at 20% and 10% (v/v), respectively, were effective at reducing substrate pH and buffering against change. Sphagnum moss and MSC provided the additional benefit of improving physical properties of the switchgrass substrates.
Performance of Sweetpotato Foundation Seed after Incorporation into Commercial Operations in Louisiana
Authors: Clark Christopher A. , Smith Tara P. , Ferrin Donald M. , Villordon Arthur Q.
Published: August 2023

Because sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) is vegetatively propagated, viruses and mutations can accumulate readily, which can lead to cultivar decline. Sweetpotato foundation seed programs in the United States maintain the integrity of commercial seed stock by providing virus-tested (VT) foundation seed to commercial producers. A survey was conducted in Louisiana from 2007 to 2009 to examine the performance and quality of the foundation seed after it had been integrated into commercial sweetpotato operations. G1 seed [grown 1 year after virus therapy in the foundation seed production field at the Sweet Potato Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center (LSU AgCenter), at Chase, LA] was used as a reference to compare the yield and virus incidence of growers' generation 2 (G2) and generation 3 (G3) seed roots (grown in the growers' seed production fields 1 or 2 years following the year of foundation seed production). Although yields of plants grown from G2 and G3 seed were 86.3% and 86.1% for U.S. No. 1 and 83.3% and 86.0% for total marketable, respectively, compared with the yields from G1 seed, they were not significantly different. Yield and virus incidence data suggest that seed quality may vary from year to year and from location to location. Results from this study suggest that producers are realizing yield benefits by incorporating VT foundation seed into their production schemes, but further benefits could be attained if ways to reduce re-infection with viruses can be found.
L-PEACH: A Computer-based Model to Understand How Peach Trees Grow
Authors: Lopez Gerardo , Favreau Romeo R. , Smith Colin , DeJong Theodore M.
Published: August 2023

L-PEACH is a computer-based model that simulates the growth of peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] trees. The model integrates important concepts related to carbon assimilation, distribution, and use in peach trees. It also includes modeling of the responses to horticultural practices such as tree pruning and fruit thinning. While running L-PEACH, three-dimensional (3D) depictions of simulated growing trees can be displayed on the computer screen and the user can easily interact with the model. Quantitative data generated during a simulation can be saved to a file or printed for visualization and analysis. L-PEACH is a powerful tool for understanding how peach trees function in the field environment, and it can be used as an innovative method for dissemination of knowledge related with carbohydrate assimilation and partitioning. In this study, we describe the version of L-PEACH that runs on a daily time-step (L-PEACH-d) and how users can run the model and interact with it. To demonstrate how L-PEACH-d works, different pruning and fruit thinning strategies were analyzed. Regarding pruning, model outputs showed 3D depictions of unpruned trees and pruned trees trained to a perpendicular V system. For the fruit thinning studies, we simulated different intensities and dates of fruit thinning in mature peach trees. Total simulated yield increased with crop load but the opposite was observed for average fruit weight. An optimal balance between simulated total yield and average fruit weight was obtained by leaving 150 fruit per tree. Simulating different dates of fruit thinning indicated that fruit weight at harvest was higher on earlier compared with later-thinned trees. The model indicates that fruit thinning should be therefore carried out early in the season to maximize fruit size. The simulation results demonstrate that L-PEACH-d can be used as an educational tool and facilitate the adoption of suitable cultural practices for efficient production.
Ultraviolet Fluorescence to Identify Navel Oranges with Poor Peel Quality and Decay
Authors: Obenland David , Margosan Dennis , Smilanick Joseph L. , Mackey Bruce
Published: August 2023

Navel oranges (Citrus sinensis) were sorted into four groups under ultraviolet illumination in commercial packinghouse black light rooms based upon the amount of fluorescence visible on each fruit to determine if fluorescence was predictive of peel quality. The groups corresponded to fruit with 1) little or no fluorescence (group 0), 2) low fluorescence (group 1), 3) moderate fluorescence (group 2), and 4) large fluorescent areas (group 3) that were indicative of developing decay lesions. Identification and elimination of group 3 fruit in black light rooms is a common practice now, but the other groups pass through these rooms. Six tests were conducted over a 2-year period during different times in the mid to late navel orange season. Fruit were visually evaluated for peel quality within 24 hours of their initial segregation into fluorescence groups and again following 3 weeks of storage at 15 °C. Peel quality assessment was based upon commercial grading practices, and the fruit were placed into fancy, choice, juice, or decay classes. Fruit with low to no peel fluorescence (groups 0 and 1) had numerous fancy-grade fruit and few juice- and decay-grade fruit in comparison with the other two groups. In contrast, fruit with moderate fluorescence (group 2) were of poor peel quality. In the initial evaluation, this group had 28% fewer fancy fruit and 19% more juice fruit than did group 0. During storage, group 2 fruit declined markedly in quality and numerous fruit of group 2 in the choice and juice classes decayed; the percentage of decayed fruit increased from 1% initially to 29% after 3 weeks of storage. Navel oranges in group 3, with numerous and obvious fluorescent decay lesions, mainly consisted of either juice grade or decayed fruit; 70% of group 3 decayed after 3 weeks. In addition to removing fluorescing fruit that have obvious indications of decay (group 3), it would be advantageous to remove or otherwise recognize that fruit with moderate levels of fluorescence (group 2) are also of lower quality and that they should not be selected for long storage or distant transport. Their identification may be most practical with an automated system using machine vision and ultraviolet illumination.
Who prefers regular dividends? The effect of inventory level and firm operating efficiency on dividends in an emerging market
Authors: Piao Haibin , Sheng Dachen
Published: August 2023

Stable regular dividends can deliver the steady operation of a firm’s performance to its investors. When firms experience lower operation efficiency and more negative performance, they can affect their cash burden and lower the regular dividends. According to the cash conversion cycle theory, quicker inventory turnover could benefit the firm, and it is a significant signal of efficiency and high performance. In the real business environment, the expectation of future production, logistics and inflation can all affect managers’ decisions. This paper uses data from all Chinese manufacturing companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2017 to 2020 as a sample. The paper provides the empirical causality between inventory turnover, operating efficiency indicators, and dividend distribution, by applying the regression method to find the causality relationship between inventory as the efficiency indicator and the distribution of dividends. The findings indicate that inventory consideration can be complicated and experience the inverse U-shape relationship with dividend decisions. Further, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have different considerations about operating efficiency. They prefer to pay stable regular dividends, even if they are under pressure on operating efficiency and suffer from large inventories. SOEs believe that following political guidance and meeting their social obligations is their prioritized mission.
THE RESULTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL ENRICHMENT AND NEURODEVELOPMENTAL TREATMENT IN SHPRINTZEN-GOLDBERG SYNDROME: A CASE REPORT
Authors: YAKIT YEŞİLYURT Seda , AYAZ TAŞ Seda
Published: August 2023

Purpose: This case report aimed to investigate the efficacy of the physiotherapy program in a child with Shprintzen-Goldberg syndrome (SGS).

Methods: A 9-month-old case diagnosed with SGS by a medical geneticist was the focus of the study. Congenital pes varus, craniosynostosis and craniofacial deformities, mental, social, emotional and motor retardation, regulation and sensory hyperreactivity symptoms were observed in the case. The physiotherapy program consists of environmental enrichment and Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) approaches twice a week for 12 months and was conducted by a physiotherapist at Karadeniz Ereğli Private Gökkuşağı Special Education and Rehabilitation Center. Gross motor function and disability level were assessed using Gross Motor Function Measurement-88 (GMFM-88) and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), respectively. The success of physiotherapy goals was determined by Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS).

Results: At 12 months follow-up, GMFM-88 score increased from 5.52% to 45.47% and GAS total scores increased from -6 to +6 point.

Conclusions: The literature review shows that no previous study assessed the effectiveness of 12 months physiotherapy program in a child with SGS. We consider that physiotherapy including targeted NDT approaches can support motor development in rare cases, such as SGS characterized by severe motor involvement.
OBSTETRİK BRAKİYAL PLEKSUS YARALANMASI OLAN ÇOCUKLARDA ÖLÇÜLEN POSTURAL SALINIM TİPİK GELİŞİM GÖSTEREN ÇOCUKLARDAN FARKLI MIDIR?
Authors: TUNÇ Azize Reda , FIRAT Tüzün , MUTLU Akmer , TOPUZ Semra
Published: August 2023

Amaç: Obstetrik Brakial Pleksus Yaralanması (OBPY) olan çocuklarda yaralanma sonucu üst ekstremitede gelişen asimetrik kullanım postural kontrol gelişimini ve postural salınım değerlerini etkilemektedir. Bu çalışmada OBPY’li çocuklarda postural salınım değerlerindeki değişimi incelemek sağlıklı kontrol olgularıyla karşılaştırmak amaçlandı.

Yöntem: Çalışmaya, yaşları ortalama 6,35±1,40 yıl olan OBPY tanılı 55 çocuk ve yaşları ortalama 6,09±0,76 yıl olan 45 tipik gelişim gösteren sağlıklı olgu dahil edildi. Her iki grubun demografik bilgileri ve OBPY'li çocukların ayrıca Narakas Sınıflandırma Sistemine göre yaralanma dereceleri kaydedildi. Çalışmada grupların postural kontrol parametrelerine ait postural salınım değerleri Balance Check Screener kuvvet platformu (Model BP5050; Bertec, Columbus, OH, ABD) ile elde edildi.

Sonuçlar: Yapılan istatistiksel analizde gruplar arası demografik özellikler benzer bulundu (p˃0,05). OBPY olgularında, tipik gelişim gösteren sağlıklı olgulara göre, anterio-posterior salınım değerlerinin istatistiksel olarak anlamlı düzeyde artmış olduğu saptandı (p
Prediction of multi-sectoral longitudinal water withdrawals using hierarchical machine learning models
Authors: Shortridge Julie
Published: August 2023

Accurate models of water withdrawal are crucial in anticipating the potential water use impacts of drought and climate change. Machine learning methods can simulate the complex, nonlinear relationship between water use and potential explanatory factors, but rarely incorporate the hierarchical nature of water use data. This work presents a novel approach for the prediction of water withdrawals across multiple usage sectors using an ensemble of models fit at different hierarchical levels. Models were fit at the facility and sectoral grouping levels, as well as across facility clusters defined by temporal water use characteristics. Using repeated holdout cross-validation and a dataset of over 300,000 observations of monthly water withdrawal across 1,509 facilities, it demonstrates that ensemble predictions led to statistically significant improvements in predictive performance in five of the eight sectors analyzed. The use of ensemble modeling resulted in lower predictive errors compared to facility models in 65% of facilities analyzed. The relative improvement gained by ensemble modeling was greatest for facilities with fewer observations and higher variance, indicating its potential value in predicting withdrawal for facilities with relatively short data records or data quality issues.
Orchids of Dibru-Saikhowa: A Systematic Review on Their Traditional
Use, Pharmacological Activity and Phytochemistry
Authors: Gogoi Pal , Sen Saikat
Published: August 2023

Background:

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park and Biosphere Reserve (DSNPBR), Assam,
India, is a part of biodiversity hotspots and a store house of many orchid species. This systematic
review was conducted to document the medicinal importante of orchids available in DSNPBR
and to analyse their importance in drug discovery.

Methods:

This systematic review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic
Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Scientific databases were used to search relevant
literature to document ethnomedicinal uses, pharmacological activity and phytochemistry of
orchid species available in DSNPBR.

Results:

We have analysed 84 articles to document relevant information on 52 orchid species available
in DSNPBR. Dendrobium (n = 13) is the top genus. Different orchid species available in DSNPBR
were used traditionally in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and China to cure gastrointestinal disorders,
disease-associated pain and inflammation, skin diseases, wound, arthritis, menstrual pain, tuberculosis
etc. The pre-clinical investigations confirmed that extract/fraction/isolated compounds
of orchids possess antirheumatic, anticancer, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antimicrobial,
nephroprotective and neuroprotective activities through different mechanisms. Biomolecules
isolated from orchid species like Dendrobium nobile alkaloids, polysaccharides have shown a potential
to be developed as future drug molecules. Many phytochemicals isolated have demonstrated
in vitro anticancer activities. The lack of clinical data in support of the therapeutic effectiveness of
orchids is a major limitation.

Conclusion:

Orchids found in DSNPBR hold great significance in traditional culture for their
medicinal properties and have been effectively studied for their bioactivities. Nevertheless, to confirm
their effectiveness as therapeutics, conducting methodical research, examining their molecular
mechanisms, and performing toxicity tests are necessary.
Segmentation of Ocular Thermogram Using Level-set Algorithm for Analysis of
Contralateral Portions in Healthy Eyes
Authors: Jeyanathan Josephine Selle , Palanigurupackiam Nagaraj , Vasudevan Muneeswaran , Alsomaie Barrak , Almazroa Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Objective:

This work aimed to evaluate the level set segmentation algorithm on ocular surface thermograms. In addition, the vascularity functioning between the contralateral portions of two eyes (right and left) was identified using statistical analysis methods.

Methods:

A total of 25 healthy participants with an average age of 35 years (20 men and 5 women) were selected in April 2022. Thermogram images were captured using a FLIR T series thermal camera. Conventional image processing techniques, such as filtering and edge detection, were used to preprocess thermograms. Next, the level set approach was used with the edge-detected pattern as an input to an automated segmented region of interest (ROI).

Results:

Five metrics, namely Dice Coefficient, Tanimoto Index, Jaccard Index, Volume Similarity, and Structural Similarity, were used to assess the performance of the segmentation technique compared to ground truth, which showed 97.5%, 92.5%, 94.5%, 96.5%, and 96.5% correlation, respectively, between the segmented and the ground truth images with average values for both the eyes. Statistical analysis demonstrated that the contralateral portions of the ocular thermograms were significantly different in terms of vascular distribution between the left and right eyes (p < 0.005).

Conclusion:

The level set method efficiently segmented the ROI in ocular thermograms with maximum correlation. According to the segmentation’s results, the model showed the dissimilarity between the contralateral parts of the left and right eyes in healthy cases.
Implementation and Efficient Analysis of Preprocessing Techniques in Deep Learning for Image Classification
Authors: Koresh H. James Deva
Published: August 2023

Background:

Deep learning models have recently been preferred to perform certain image-processing tasks. Recently, with the increasing radiation, heat, and
poor lighting conditions, the raw image samples may contain noisy and ambiguous information.

Objective:

To process these images, the deep learning model requires a large number of data samples to learn the missing information from other clear data
samples. This necessitates training the neural network with a huge dataset.

Methods:

The researchers are now attempting to filter and improve such noisy images via preprocessing in order to provide valid and accurate feature
information to the neural network layers. However, certain research studies claim that some useful information may be lost when the image is not
preprocessed with an appropriate filter or enhancement technique. The MSA (meta-synthesis and analysis) approach is utilized in this work to
present the impact of the image processing applications done with and without preprocessing steps. Also, this work summarizes the existing deep
learning-based image processing models utilizing or not preprocessing steps in their implementation.

Results:

This work has also found that 85% of the existing techniques involve a preprocessing step while developing a deep learning model. However, a
maximum accuracy of 96.89% is observed on Sine-Net when it is implemented without a preprocessing and the same model gave 96.85% when
implemented with preprocessing.

Conclusion:

This research provides various research insights on the requirement and non-requirement of preprocessing steps in a deep learning-based
implementation.
Preliminary evaluation of an additive manufacturing procedure for producing patient-specific upper-limb orthotic devices
Authors: Sala F.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In the orthopedic field, the need for patient-specific devices is crucial to ensure a rapid and successful care treatment. The traditional techniques for manufacturing customized orthopedic systems, specifically orthoses, are laborious and present multiple and time-consuming steps. The present research analyzed the possibility of optimizing the conventional process for manufacturing personalized orthoses by leveraging the principles of Reverse Engineering (RE) and Additive Manufacturing (AM). Digital orthotic models of different anatomical regions were obtained using 3D laser scanning and semi-automated CAD processing, whilst, the prototypes were produced using a Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) printer and polymeric filaments suitable for the intended use. Furthermore, topological optimization was employed to improve the shape and the weight of the different medical devices. Potential advantages and drawbacks of the discussed procedure were evaluated through a preliminary indication of production times and costs.
A numerical methodology for improving the thermoforming process of complex thermoplastic composite components
Authors: Stamopoulos A.G.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for lightweight composite structures. Thermoplastic composite materials appear to be a very promising solution to this direction considering their unique aspects and their capability to be heated and stamped. Nevertheless, the cost of the development of the dies that are necessary to fulfill the requirements of the process was based, until recently, on trial-and-error tests. In the present work, an automotive component is considered, and the corresponding dies are developed using a fast and efficient process simulation software. The process parameters as well as the characteristics of the cavity are defined aiming to minimize the process induced defects.
A digital solution for slender workpiece turning: the DRITTO project
Authors: Grossi N.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. Turning slender components is a critical task since workpiece flexibility entails relevant deformations during the process, leading to potential loss of accuracy, lower machining efficiency and higher manufacturing costs. The DRITTO project aims at developing an easy-to-use digital solution to support manufacturing of flexible axisymmetric components. The proposed support system, starting from the not-optimized toolpath, stock geometry and tool parameters, it will compute the optimized toolpath by integrating three different modules: a) workpiece FE modelling, b) turning process modelling, c) toolpath optimization. The project is ongoing, but, at the current stage, preliminary validation of the proposed solution has been carried out. DRITTO is funded as an experiment of DIH-World Horizon2020 project, and the consortium is composed by the machining services SME Meccanica Ceccarelli & Rossi and the University of Florence as part of the Digital Innovation Hub ARTES4.0.
The Correlation between Sleep Quality and Level of Stress among Students in Islamic Boarding School Bogor
Authors: Lakshmi Bety Semara , Ujianti Irena , Fahrozi Fahrozi , Albantani Ibnu , Putri Ananda , Nofrizal Nofrizal , Rahmadi Agus , Stujanna Endin Nokik , Nurusshofa Zahra , Sukarya Wawang S
Published: August 2023

Sleep period and performance affect mental health. Multiple studies have linked sleep quality and duration to mental health in metabolic patients, but studies on sleep patterns and mental health symptoms in healthy people, especially in Islamic boarding schools, are limited. The goal of this research is to look into the relationship between sleep patterns and performance in relation to mental health in students who attend Islamic boarding schools. In this cross-sectional study, a self-administered questionnaire consisting of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS21) was distributed to students at the Wadi Mubarok Islamic boarding school. Total blood sugar and cholesterol levels were measured using EasyTouch glucometer. Fasting glucose levels are used to support the results of stress conditions in the body, which are indicated by an increase in fasting blood glucose levels, which are normally less than 100mg/dl. To see the relationship, a Spearman rank correlation test was carried out. From the results of the examination, plasma glucose levels were 118.1±4.03mg/dl, and plasma uric acid levels were 5.54±0.24 mg/dl. There is a weak correlation between sleep quality and depression (r=0.341; p<0.05) and a fairly strong correlation between sleep quality and anxiety (r=0.437; p<0.05). In this study, poor sleep quality and short sleep duration were linked to an increased incidence of depression and anxiety symptoms. These findings imply that inadequate sleep duration and performance could be a contributor to the development of mental disorders.
INTERRELATIONSHIP OF NETWORKS, KNOWLEDGE, AND PERFORMANCE OF BUSINESSES THROUGH THE LENS OF COASTAL DESTINATION DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Azinuddin Muaz , Mior Shariffuddin Nur Shahirah , Mat Som Ahmad Puad , Muhammad Salim Muhammad Arfin , Eppang Buntu Marannu
Published: August 2023

The sustainable future of coastal destination development is mainly reliant on performance of small and medium sized tourism enterprises (SMTEs) since they are the main catalyst of tourism growth. Given SMTEs’ operational sizes, the need to enhance their knowledge base through their networks to stay competitive is heightened. This research examines how the absorptive capacity (AC) affects the dynamic between formal and informal networks and business management performance of SMTEs. The study focuses on four sub-sectors in Terengganu, Malaysia: hotels and resorts, travel agencies, restaurants, and handicrafts. The study analysed survey data from 119 entrepreneurs using a hierarchical regression model. The results showed that the nexus between the use of formal networks and business management performance is significantly mediated by AC, while no significant relationships were found with the use of informal networks. The study emphasizes the importance of formal actors in promoting knowledge flows and enhancing coastal destination development and competitiveness.
STUDY ON THE NEXUS OF CSR AND SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT ON TOURIST DESTINATION LOYALTY IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT NATURE-BASED TOURISM
Authors: Ramli Mona Fairuz , Badarulzaman Nurwati , Abdul Latif Samshul Amry
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and destination brand loyalty and social media engagement, which is not well understood. This particularly occurs in the sustainable development context of nature-based tourism in managing the negative impact on the environment, which is rather challenging. Moreover, the current research aims to develop a simple model for investigating the interrelationship of CSR as well as destination loyalty by incorporating social media engagement as a moderating variable. This is to investigate the impact mechanism of CSR activities of tourists towards tourists' destination brand loyalty in the context of nature-based tourism. The data for this study were obtained from 285 tourists who visited a popular marine park site in Malaysia. The researchers used the partial least squares structural equation modeling technique to analyze the collected data. The findings revealed that both CSR and social media engagement had an impact on destination brand loyalty. These findings have important implications for destination operators, suggesting that incorporating CSR activities into their strategies can be a strategic approach for achieving sustainable success.
Promoting College Student and Staff Well-being Through a Mindfulness-based Coping Program
Authors: Long Robyn , Kennedy Megan , Spink Katie Malloy , Lengua Liliana J.
Published: August 2023

This study evaluated the impact on student and staff well-being of a mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral coping program, Be REAL (Resilient Attitudes & Living), delivered by campus staff using a task-sharing approach. The program was adapted for online delivery during COVID19. Study participants included 325 undergraduate students and 100 staff members at a large tri-campus university in the U.S. Participants completed surveys with self-report measures assessing mindfulness, perceptions of stress, emotion regulation, executive control, coping, self-compassion, anxiety, depression, and indicators of well-being including resilience and flourishing. Students also completed measures of social connectedness and happiness, while staff completed measures of work-related burnout and self-efficacy. With students we employed an assessment only control group, and with staff, a waitlist control (WLC) design was used. Feasibility and acceptability measures were obtained. Compared to students in the assessment-only group, students participating in Be REAL showed significant improvements in mindfulness, self-compassion, flourishing, resilience, happiness, emotion regulation problems, executive control, active coping, social connection, depression and anxiety symptoms. These effects were maintained at follow-up. Compared to WLC, staff participating in Be REAL reported improved self-efficacy and reduced anxiety symptoms. This study demonstrated that a mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral coping enhancement program, Be REAL, delivered online during the pandemic, can improve the well-being and mental health of college students and staff. It further demonstrated feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness through a task-sharing model whereby staff supporting students facilitated the groups, which presents universities with a promising model of cultivating a campus culture of well-being.
Subchronic intraperitoneal toxicity of Sio2NPs on body weight and
thyroid gland hormones in female Rats
Authors: Sabah Abbood Riam , M. Luaibi Noori
Published: August 2023

This study investigated the toxicity effect of Sio2NPs on body weight
and thyroid gland in female rats; the experiment was included. The experimental
animals were randomly divided into three groups, including two treatment groups
( treated with a low dose (25mg/Kg ) and high dose (100mg/Kg of body weight)
of sio2 NPs and one group as a control. Each group of them was divided into
three subgroups according to the injection periods of exposure (10, 20, and 30)
days daily, then measure the body weight and Thyroid function hormones (T3,
T4, TSH), the results showed that there was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the
body weight of animals that exposed to SiO2 NPs at two doses (25 and 100
mg/kg) during (10 days) while increased during (20, 30 days) but the highest value recorded in the animals that were treated for (30 days) at both doses. On the
other side, the T3 findings recorded a significant decrease (p< 0.05) for the animals that exposed to SiO2 NPs at low and high doses (25 and 100 mg/kg) (during
(10 days) when compared with the control group As well as, there was a significant decrease (p< 0.05) in the level of T3 for all animals that treated with these
doses during (20 and 3 days) in serum of animals that were treated with both doses of SiO2 NPs when compared with the control group (p< 0.05), while T4
showed s decreasing in the treated group during (10 and 20, 30 days) compared
to a control group with highly significant ((p< 0.05), finally while TSH showed a
highly increasing in treated group during (10 and 20, 30 days) compared to control group (p< 0.05). The study revealed that Exposure to Sio2NPs at different
concentrations caused structural and functional and in the thyroid gland, characterized decrease in T3 and T4 hormone levels and an increase in the TSH hormone level and caused hypothyroidism This led to a decrease in the metabolism
process and thus the body weight of animals gained a significant increase.
Keywords: nanoparticles, Sio2NPs, Thyroid gland, T3, T4, TSH, Body weight,
female rats.