bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Student Performance and Personal Growth: A Review of Group Counseling in High Schools
Authors: Asadi Ali Reza , Mede Enisa
Published: January 2024

Objective: The high school years are a critical period in students' lives, marked by rapid academic, social, and emotional development. Group counseling in high schools has emerged as a vital tool to support students through these challenges, offering a unique avenue for addressing a range of developmental and educational needs. This article aims to explore the impact of group counseling on enhancing student performance and personal growth within high school settings. Methods and Materials: The review involved a comprehensive search of academic databases using keywords such as "group counseling," "high school," "student performance," and "personal growth." Studies specifically examining the impact of group counseling on high school students were included. The selected literature was analyzed and synthesized to provide a coherent understanding of the current state of group counseling in high schools, focusing on its methods, effectiveness, challenges, and best practices. Findings: The review highlights the effectiveness of group counseling in various domains, including academic support, social skills enhancement, and mental health improvement. Key challenges in implementing group counseling programs were identified, such as resource constraints, student participation, and variability in program implementation. Effective practices and recommendations for schools were outlined, including tailored interventions, collaborative approaches, continuous training for counselors, and integrating counseling into the school curriculum. Conclusion: Group counseling in high schools is a valuable intervention that significantly impacts student performance and personal growth. It addresses the holistic needs of high school students, contributing to their overall success and well-being. The review suggests areas for future research and development in group counseling and recommends that schools develop policies and practices to integrate group counseling into their educational framework, ensuring that all students have access to these vital services.
Freedom to dream: Black Owenites and co-operation in America
Authors: Wolcott Victoria M
Published: January 2024

Robert Owen’s vision of a co-operative society inspired two centuries of utopian experimentation among African Americans. In the nineteenth century white planter Joseph Davis and Scottish reformer Fanny Wright attempted to apply Owenite principles to their management of slave plantations. After emancipation freed people founded Black towns, such as Mound Bayou, Mississippi, pooling their resources to protect themselves against white supremacist violence. During the Great Migration in the 1910s and 1920s, W. E. B. DuBois and other Black activists and intellectuals promoted co‑operatives in urban centres. And the Great Depression of the 1930s inspired significant experiments in co‑operation, most notably the prosperous utopian community of Father Divine’s Peace Mission. While the post-war period saw a decline in co-operation, in more recent decades there has been a resurgence in interest in the movement. From co-operative grocery stores to large-scale utopian communities, African Americans drew on Owenite ideas of co-operation to assert their independence and self-sufficiency.
Exploring Upper Limb Kinematics in Limited Vision Conditions: Preliminary Insights from 3D Motion Analysis and IMU Data
Authors: Zarkadoula Artemis , Themistoklis Tsatalas , George Bellis , Paris Papaggelos , Evangelia Vlahogianni , Stefanos Moustos , Eirini Koukourava , Dimitrios Tsaopoulos , Giannis Giakas
Published: January 2024

This study examined upper limb kinematics under simulated visually impaired conditions. By investigating how upper limb movements adapt in these circumstances, we aimed to gain insights that may prove valuable for both healthy populations and those with clinical conditions. Data, including 3D marker-based motion capture and accelerometer readings, were collected from seven healthy volunteers walking on a treadmill at 1.5 m/s under two conditions: without glasses (NG) and with stroboscopic glasses (G). Each walking condition lasted 2 minutes, and two 10-second recordings were analyzed from the midpoint of each session. Contrary to our hypothesis, simulated visual impairment with stroboscopic eyewear at 6Hz did not statistically affect upper limb kinematics, specifically in terms of wrist acceleration and hand distance in the frontal plane. Future research should explore varied visual impairment conditions, extend task durations, and investigate the relationship between subjective gait difficulties and biomechanical data.
Solution of Inverse Kinematics for Industry Robot Based on Multi-Strategy Improved Chimpanzee Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Hou Shuzeng , Luo Chengyuan , Wu Zhiming , Sun Weifeng , Zhang Huikun
Published: January 2024

During the process of inverse kinematics solving for a robotic arm, heuristic optimization algorithms have been widely applied. However, due to the complex structure of the robotic arm, these algorithms suffer from drawbacks such as slow convergence speed and a tendency to get trapped in local optima. Therefore, a novel metaheuristic optimization algorithm called the Chimpan-zee Optimization Algorithm (ChOA) has been introduced, along with multiple strategy improvements to enhance its global search capability and convergence optimization performance. Through simulation experiments on the modified Chim-panzee Optimization Algorithm (MChOA), it has been demonstrated that this method outperforms the traditional ChOA algo-rithm in terms of convergence speed and accuracy, effectively addressing the issues of slow convergence and being trapped in local op-tima.
Pseudothrombocytopenia – frequency, causes, and evaluation in a clinical lab.
Authors: Aqsa Noureen  , Sadia ali  , Aneela Faisal  , Aliya Zaman  , Bhawani Shanker  , Faiqa Aslam
Published: January 2024

Objective: To find out frequency, different causes of pseudothrombocytopenia andtheir further evaluation to reach a final diagnosisMethodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Muhammad MedicalHospital, Mirpurkhas between October 2021 to January 2022. All patients who hadan automated platelet count less than 100 were included in the study. While patients with a known cause of thrombocytopenia were excluded. Data was collectedwith the help of designed proforma. Complete blood count was performed by anautomated hematology analyzer. The samples with platelet count less than 100(flag on platelet counts) were selected for peripheral blood smear review for manual counting to ascertain the cause of thrombocytopenia.Results: A total of 1800 blood samples were analyzed. 95 patients (5.27%) had isolated platelet count < 100 with no previous history. Peripheral blood smear reviewwas done, 84 patients (88%) had true thrombocytopenia that is low platelet countby both automated and manual techniques. The incidence rate of pseudothrombocytopenia was 0.61%. Clumping due to EDTA was found in 0.27% cases followed byplatelet satellitism in 0.05% cases.Conclusion: Our study reported an incidence of pseudothrombocytopenia to be0.61%. Further breakdown revealed clumping due to EDTA to be the most commoncause. Platelet Satellitism was found to be the cause of pseudothrombocytopenia in0.05% cases.

Keywords: pseudothrombocytopenia, PTCP, spurious, thrombocytopenia.
Correlation of Lung Volumes with HbA1c and Duration of Diabetes, in Type 2 Diabetics, at a Tertiary Care Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.
Authors: Zunaira Nawaz  , Rabiah Zaid  , Darshan Kumar  , Umair  , Abdullah Makki
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Various studies have detected a link between lung abnormalities andDiabetes Mellitus (DM) but this relationship isn't that well established.Objectives: To document the correlation between pulmonary function tests (PFTs)and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and the duration of DM.Methodology: This single-center study recruited 100 individuals with DiabetesMellitus, who presented to the medicine Outpatient department (OPD) or admittedin Medical Unit-1/C1 of “Dr. Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi” from 1st November 2019 till 10th October 2020. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.0.Results: Of the 100 participants, the majority of them were men (n=57), had DM forthe past ≤8 years (n=54), and had moderately controlled DM with an HbA1c in therange 6.5-7.9 (n=37). The spirometry results of over half of the patients (n=57) werenormal however, approximately in one third of them (n=35) restrictive lung patternwas detected. Significant inverse correlations were found between HbA1c and FEV1(r= -0.281, p-value=0.005), HbA1c and FEV1/FVC (r= -0.386, p-value=0.000), duration of DM and FEV1 (r= -0.259, p-value=0.009) and duration of DM and FEV1/FVC(r= -0.381, p-value=0.000).Conclusion: A significant relationship was found between lung function tests (FEV1and FEV1/FVC ratio) and poor glycemic control and increased duration of DM;therefore, periodic assessment of PFTs and HbA1c is crucial in early screening andmanagement of lung abnormalities in type2 diabetics.

Keywords: Type 2 DM, HbA1c, “Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)”, “Forced ExpiratoryVolume in 1second (FEV1)”, “Pulmonary Function test (PFT)”.
Assessment of tele dentistry usage in pediatric patients.
Authors: Maham Shah  , Farwa Shah  , Aqsa Shah  , Atia Gul Bhurt  , Nigha Imam Syed  , Romesa Khero
Published: January 2024

Abstract:

Introduction: Tele medicine is a form of tele-health that involves synergy between telecommunication and dentistry which involves exchange of clinical details and  of appropriate pictures for counseling of the patient and treatment plan accordingly.

Methodology: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from February 2022 to March 2022 at pediatric patients of Jamshoro and Hyderabad districts coming to pediatric OPD and were having oral health problems too. 200 pediatric patients were selected, questionnaire was made in English, Urdu and Sindhi languages. Parents of pediatric patients were asked various questions regarding usage of tele-dentistry. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.

Results: 60% of the patients were with tele-dentistry while 40% were not aware about tele-dentistry. according to benefits of using tele-dentistry 40% patients said that it reduces travel time, while 30% said that it reduces time spend or save time while 30% also said that it is convenient.

Conclusion: Study showed good patient acceptance towards the use of tele dentistry.

 

Key words: Covid-19, tele dentistry, oral health.
Thyroid Carcinoma: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors.
Authors: Muhammad Razzaq Dogar  , Abdul Waheed  , Allah Bux Mushtaq  , Shabir Mahar  , Ashok Kumar  , Zafar Mahmood
Published: January 2024

Abstract:

Introduction: Thyroid nodules are a prevalent condition all over the world. Majority of thyroid nodules are brought on by an expansion of healthy thyroid tissue. There is a substantial hereditary basis for this enlargement, however the reason is frequently unclear.

Objective: To identify the frequency and risk factors for thyroid cancer in patients attending JPMC Karachi, Pakistan.

 

Methods: A retrospective cross-section study was performed at JPMC, Karachi, Pakistan. Five years data (2016 to 2020) was retrieved from the electronic medical record. All adult patients 30 years of age and older, regardless of gender, had preoperative thyroid and cervical ultrasound imaging were enrolled. The condition of the thyroid nodule was noted. The final diagnosis was reached after a pathological study of the operation specimen.

 

Results: Of 520 patients, the mean age was 55.35 ±4.64 years. There were 320 (61.5%) males and 200 (38.5%) females. Thyroid cancer was observed in 149 (28.7%) patients. After adjustment of other covariates, thyroid cancer was 16.74 times significantly higher in single nodular goiter patients than with multinodular goiter patients (aOR: 16.74, 95% CI 9.70-28.88) and 8.11 times significantly higher among whom patients with positive thyroid cancer family history than with no positive family history (aOR: 8.11, 95% CI 4.35-15.11). Of 149 patients with thyroid cancer, papillary cancer was observed in majority 123 (23.7%), follicular cancer in 15 (10.1%), Hurthle Cancer observed in 11 (7.4%).

 

Conclusion: Thyroid cancer was observed in almost one third of patients. In particular, single nodular goiter and positive family history were the significant variables.

 

Keywords: Goiter, Nodules, Thyroid Cancer.
Effectiveness of Flash Card Media To Improve Early Childhood English Letter and Vocabulary Recognition in Reading
Authors: Purnama Sari Ika , Khairunnisa Sormin Rizky , Purba Anita , Putri Rahayu Arum , Ester Khairas Eri
Published: January 2024

This research aims to analyze the effectiveness of Flash Card media to improve early childhood Alphabet and Spelling Vocabulary recognition in reading English at PAUD ADIAN Jaya Karang Sari. This study used qualitative method. The participants in this study were all students of “Class A” PAUD ADIAN Jaya Karang Sari. The result of  study on Effectiveness of Flash Card Media to improve the early childhood English Letter and vocabulary recognition in reading English show the implementation of Flash Card. The researcher showed some vocabulary in front of the student by the Flash Card. First, the researcher showed some picture in Flash card, then the researcher mention some vocabulary spell it in the flash card in English. Data was collected by interview and observation sheet. In interview, the researcher invited all the students to mention some vocabulary and student spell it in front of the class. In observation, the researcher makes some quiz about the vocabulary. The researcher showed the flash card. Then make a score for the students that can answer the words and spell it. This research give the implication how to important media learning for early childhood to study English.
Tratamiento farmacológico actual de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2
Authors: Ságüil Vela Aroldo Josué
Published: January 2024

PROBLEMA: La Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 es una de las enfermedades crónicas más prevalentes en la población adulta. OBJETIVO: Describir el tratamiento farmacológico actual de la Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2. MÉTODO: Se recopiló información de revistas médicas y libros donde se encontraron guías, artículos y protocolos sobre el tratamiento farmacológico actual de la Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2.  RESULTADOS: El tratamiento farmacológico actual para la Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 debe de guiarse de las condiciones individuales del paciente para brindar el tratamiento adecuado ajustado a las complicaciones propias de la Diabetes que presente el paciente. CONCLUSIÓN: El tratamiento farmacológico actual de la Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2 consiste en biguanidas para los casos más moderados, pudiéndose añadir los inhibidores del cotransportador 2 de sodio-glucosa en pacientes con cardiopatía establecida o insuficiencia cardiaca, los amplificadores del péptido similar a glucagon 1 se han mostrado en pacientes cardiópatas además de mejorar el sobrepeso, inhibidores de la dipeptidil peptidasa 4 en condiciones especiales e insulina de acción prolongada para mantener la glicemia en rangos adecuados.
La justice en jeu : regard sur la recherche avec des êtres humains
Authors: Bergeron Michel , Marceau Emmanuelle , Masella Marie-Alexia
Published: January 2024

Le respect du principe de justice en recherche avec des êtres humains est essentiel pour assurer que les recherches soient acceptables sur le plan éthique. Bien que les préoccupations liées à ce principe ne soient pas nouvelles, l’évolution de la science, de la technologie et de la société soulève de nouveaux défis à son égard, tant dans sa forme, son contenu que dans son application. Dans cet article, nous présentons dans un premier temps quelques éléments historiques en lien avec la bioéthique et l’éthique de la recherche. Puis, nous partageons des réflexions, ainsi que des pistes de recommandations sur son application dans des domaines ciblés en lien, entre autres, avec l’équité, la vulnérabilité, la solidarité, les nouvelles technologies et le colonialisme. Ce faisant, nous souhaitons contribuer aux réflexions sociétales et à la sensibilisation des divers acteurs en recherche sur l’importance de la prise en compte du principe de justice et de son lien avec le respect de la dignité humaine dans l’évaluation éthique d’activités de recherche.
Involvement of superior colliculus in complex figure detection of mice
Authors: Cazemier J Leonie , Haak Robin , Tran TK Loan , Hsu Ann TY , Husic Medina , Peri Brandon D , Kirchberger Lisa , Self Matthew W , Roelfsema Pieter , Heimel J Alexander
Published: January 2024

Object detection is an essential function of the visual system. Although the visual cortex plays an important role in object detection, the superior colliculus can support detection when the visual cortex is ablated or silenced. Moreover, it has been shown that superficial layers of mouse SC (sSC) encode visual features of complex objects, and that this code is not inherited from the primary visual cortex. This suggests that mouse sSC may provide a significant contribution to complex object vision. Here, we use optogenetics to show that mouse sSC is involved in figure detection based on differences in figure contrast, orientation, and phase. Additionally, our neural recordings show that in mouse sSC, image elements that belong to a figure elicit stronger activity than those same elements when they are part of the background. The discriminability of this neural code is higher for correct trials than for incorrect trials. Our results provide new insight into the behavioral relevance of the visual processing that takes place in sSC.
Kidins220 regulates the development of B cells bearing the λ light chain
Authors: Schaffer Anna-Maria , Fiala Gina Jasmin , Hils Miriam , Natali Eriberto , Babrak Lmar , Herr Laurenz Alexander , Romero-Mulero Mari Carmen , Cabezas-Wallscheid Nina , Rizzi Marta , Miho Enkelejda , Schamel Wolfgang WA , Minguet Susana
Published: January 2024

The ratio between κ and λ light chain (LC)-expressing B cells varies considerably between species. We recently identified Kinase D-interacting substrate of 220 kDa (Kidins220) as an interaction partner of the BCR. In vivo ablation of Kidins220 in B cells resulted in a marked reduction of λLC-expressing B cells. Kidins220 knockout B cells fail to open and recombine the genes of the Igl locus, even in genetic scenarios where the Igk genes cannot be rearranged or where the κLC confers autoreactivity. Igk gene recombination and expression in Kidins220-deficient B cells is normal. Kidins220 regulates the development of λLC B cells by enhancing the survival of developing B cells and thereby extending the time-window in which the Igl locus opens and the genes are rearranged and transcribed. Further, our data suggest that Kidins220 guarantees optimal pre-BCR and BCR signaling to induce Igl locus opening and gene recombination during B cell development and receptor editing.
Exploring the K+ binding site and its coupling to transport in the neurotransmitter:sodium symporter LeuT
Authors: Schmidt Solveig G , Nygaard Andreas , Mindell Joseph A , Loland Claus J
Published: January 2024

The neurotransmitter:sodium symporters (NSSs) are secondary active transporters that couple the reuptake of substrate to the symport of one or two sodium ions. One bound Na+ (Na1) contributes to the substrate binding, while the other Na+ (Na2) is thought to be involved in the conformational transition of the NSS. Two NSS members, the serotonin transporter (SERT) and the Drosophila dopamine transporter (dDAT), also couple substrate uptake to the antiport of K+ by a largely undefined mechanism. We have previously shown that the bacterial NSS homologue, LeuT, also binds K+, and could therefore serve as a model protein for the exploration of K+ binding in NSS proteins. Here, we characterize the impact of K+ on substrate affinity and transport as well as on LeuT conformational equilibrium states. Both radioligand binding assays and transition metal ion FRET (tmFRET) yielded similar K+ affinities for LeuT. K+ binding was specific and saturable. LeuT reconstituted into proteoliposomes showed that intra-vesicular K+ dose-dependently increased the transport velocity of [3H]alanine, whereas extra-vesicular K+ had no apparent effect. K+ binding induced a LeuT conformation distinct from the Na+- and substrate-bound conformation. Conservative mutations of the Na1 site residues affected the binding of Na+ and K+ to different degrees. The Na1 site mutation N27Q caused a >10-fold decrease in K+ affinity but at the same time a ~3-fold increase in Na+ affinity. Together, the results suggest that K+ binding to LeuT modulates substrate transport and that the K+ affinity and selectivity for LeuT is sensitive to mutations in the Na1 site, pointing toward the Na1 site as a candidate site for facilitating the interaction with K+ in some NSSs.
Comparative interactome analysis of α-arrestin families in human and Drosophila
Authors: Lee Kyung-Tae , Pranoto Inez KA , Kim Soon-Young , Choi Hee-Joo , To Ngoc Bao , Chae Hansong , Lee Jeong-Yeon , Kim Jung-Eun , Kwon Young V , Nam Jin-Wu
Published: January 2024

The α-arrestins form a large family of evolutionally conserved modulators that control diverse signaling pathways, including both G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)-mediated and non-GPCR-mediated pathways, across eukaryotes. However, unlike β-arrestins, only a few α-arrestin targets and functions have been characterized. Here, using affinity purification and mass spectrometry, we constructed interactomes for 6 human and 12 Drosophila α-arrestins. The resulting high-confidence interactomes comprised 307 and 467 prey proteins in human and Drosophila, respectively. A comparative analysis of these interactomes predicted not only conserved binding partners, such as motor proteins, proteases, ubiquitin ligases, RNA splicing factors, and GTPase-activating proteins, but also those specific to mammals, such as histone modifiers and the subunits of V-type ATPase. Given the manifestation of the interaction between the human α-arrestin, TXNIP, and the histone-modifying enzymes, including HDAC2, we undertook a global analysis of transcription signals and chromatin structures that were affected by TXNIP knockdown. We found that TXNIP activated targets by blocking HDAC2 recruitment to targets, a result that was validated by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Additionally, the interactome for an uncharacterized human α-arrestin ARRDC5 uncovered multiple components in the V-type ATPase, which plays a key role in bone resorption by osteoclasts. Our study presents conserved and species-specific protein–protein interaction maps for α-arrestins, which provide a valuable resource for interrogating their cellular functions for both basic and clinical research.
Oxygen isotopes in orangutan teeth reveal recent and ancient climate variation
Authors: Smith Tanya M. , Arora Manish , Austin Christine , Ávila Janaína N. , Duval Mathieu , Lim Tze Tshen , Piper Philip J. , Vaiglova Petra , Vos John de , Williams Ian S. , Zhao Jian-xin , Green Daniel R.
Published: January 2024

Studies of climate variation commonly rely on chemical and isotopic changes recorded in sequentially-produced growth layers, such as in corals, shells and tree rings, as well as in accretionary deposits—ice and sediment cores, and speleothems. Oxygen isotopic compositions (δ
18
O) of tooth enamel are a direct method of reconstructing environmental variation experienced by an individual animal. Here we utilize long-forming orangutan dentitions (
Pongo
spp.) to probe recent and ancient rainfall trends on a weekly basis over ∼ 3–11 years per individual. We first demonstrate the lack of any consistent isotopic enrichment effect during exclusive nursing, supporting the use of primate first molar teeth as environmental proxies. Comparisons of δ
18
O values (n = 2016) in twelve molars from six modern Bornean and Sumatran orangutans reveal a high degree of overlap, with more consistent annual and bimodal rainfall patterns in the Sumatran individuals. Comparisons with fossil orangutan δ
18
O values (n = 955 measurements from six molars) reveal similarities between modern and late Pleistocene fossil Sumatran individuals, but differences between modern and late Pleistocene/early Holocene Bornean orangutans. These suggest drier and more open environments with reduced monsoon intensity during this earlier period in northern Borneo, consistent with other Niah Caves studies and long-term speleothem δ
18
O records in the broader region. This approach can be extended to test hypotheses about the paleoenvironments that early humans encountered in southeast Asia.
New genetic tools for mushroom body output neurons in Drosophila
Authors: Rubin Gerald M , Aso Yoshinori
Published: January 2024

How memories of past events influence behavior is a key question in neuroscience. The major associative learning center in Drosophila, the mushroom body (MB), communicates to the rest of the brain through mushroom body output neurons (MBONs). While 21 MBON cell types have their dendrites confined to small compartments of the MB lobes, analysis of EM connectomes revealed the presence of an additional 14 MBON cell types that are atypical in having dendritic input both within the MB lobes and in adjacent brain regions. Genetic reagents for manipulating atypical MBONs and experimental data on their functions have been lacking. In this report we describe new cell-type-specific GAL4 drivers for many MBONs, including the majority of atypical MBONs that extend the collection of MBON driver lines we have previously generated (Aso et al., 2014a; Aso et al., 2016; Aso et al., 2019). Using these genetic reagents, we conducted optogenetic activation screening to examine their ability to drive behaviors and learning. These reagents provide important new tools for the study of complex behaviors in Drosophila.
Gain neuromodulation mediates perceptual switches: evidence from pupillometry, fMRI, and RNN Modelling
Authors: Wainstein Gabriel , Whyte Christopher J. , Ehgoetz Martens Kaylena A. , Müller Eli J. , Munn Brandon R. , Medel Vicente , Anderson Britt , Stöttinger Elisabeth , Danckert James , Shine James M.
Published: January 2024

Perceptual updating has been proposed to rely upon evolving activity within a recurrent, distributed thalamocortical network whose interconnections are modulated by bursts of ascending neuromodulatory neurotransmitters, such as noradrenaline. To test this hypothesis mechanistically, we leveraged a combination of pupillometry, fMRI and recurrent neural network modelling of an ambiguous figures task. Qualitative shifts in the perceptual interpretation of an ambiguous image were associated with peaks in pupil diameter, an indirect readout of phasic bursts in neuromodulatory tone. We hypothesized that increases in neuromodulatory tone led to neural gain alteration so as to causally mediate perceptual switches. To test this hypothesis, we trained a recurrent neural network to perform an analogous perceptual categorisation task, and then manipulated the gain of the RNN to mimic the effect of neuromodulatory tone. As predicted, we observed an earlier perceptual shift as a function of heightened gain. Leveraging a low-dimensional readout of the RNN dynamics, we developed two novel predictions: perceptual switches should co-occur with peaks in low-dimensional brain state velocity and with flattened energy landscape dynamics. We used dimensionality-reduced summaries of whole-brain fMRI dynamics to independently confirm each of these predictions. These results support the role of the neuromodulatory system in the large-scale network reconfigurations that mediate abrupt changes in perception.
Synchronizing beta cells in the pancreas
Authors: Peercy Bradford E , Hodson David J
Published: January 2024

The secretion of insulin from the pancreas relies on both gap junctions and subpopulations of beta cells with specific intrinsic properties.
A vertebra of a small species of Pachycetus from the North Sea and its inner structure and vascularity compared with other basilosaurid vertebrae from the same site
Authors: van Vliet Henk Jan , Bosselaers Mark E.J. , Munsterman Dirk K. , Dijkshoorn Marcel L. , de Groen Jeffrey Joël , Post Klaas
Published: January 2024

In the Western Scheldt Estuary near the Belgian-Dutch border, middle to late Eocene strata crop out at the current seafloor. Most vertebrae of large Eocene basilosaurid taxa from this area were previously described in several papers. They represent three morphotypes: elongated vertebrae of a large species of Pachycetus (Morphotype 1b), a not-elongated vertebra of a large ‘dorudontid’ basilosaurid (Morphotype 2) and ‘shortened’ vertebrae of a new, unnamed taxon (Morphotype 3). This article deals with a still undescribed, smaller vertebra, NMR-16642, from this site. Our first aim was to date it by dinoflagellate cysts in adhering sediments. Yielding an age of about 38 Ma, it is one of the very few remains of basilosaurids from Europe, of which the age could be assessed with reasonable certainty. The vertebra, Morphotype 1a, is assigned to a small species of Pachycetus. High-quality CT scans are used to differentiate between NMR-16642, Morphotype 1a, and the large species of Pachycetus, Morphotype 1b. Another aim of this paper is to investigate the inner structure and vascularity of the study vertebra and that of the other morphotypes (1b, 2, 3) from this area by using high-quality CT scans. Notwithstanding differences in size, shape and compactness, the vertebral inner structure with a multi-layered cortex of periosteal bone, surrounding two cones of endosteal bone appears to be basically similar in all morphotypes. Apparently, this inner structure reflects the ontogenetic vertebral growth. An attempt to reconstruct the vascularity of the vertebrae reveals a remarkable pattern of interconnected vascular systems. From the dorsal and, if present, ventral foramina, vascular canals are running to a central vascular node. From this node a system of vascular canals goes to the epiphyseal ends, giving rise to separate systems for cortex and cones. It is the first time that the vascularity of vertebrae of archaeocetes is investigated.
Level of Cognitive Domains and Weightage of Various Topics in the Undergraduate Summative Examination Question Paper of Community Medicine: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tiwari Preeti , Priya Angelin , Datta Arijit
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Assessments direct students towards learning. There are three types of learning: cognitive, affective, and psychomotor. While all three are interlinked, the cognitive domain, which covers knowledge and intellectuality, is foundational and can be assessed through theory examinations. Theory exams are the best way to test the cognitive domain of a learner, while practical exams can assess the psychomotor and affective domains. Since the question paper is the most important tool in theory exams, it is essential that the question paper covers relevant topics and tests all levels of cognitive learning, which encompass knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Aim: To assess the level of cognitive domains assessed and the weightage allocated to various topics in the undergraduate summative examination question paper of community medicine. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Department of Community Medicine, Pramukh Swami Medical College and Sri Krishna Hospital, Bhaikaka University, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat, India in which the five-year question papers (2016-2020) from five Universities were analysed to assess the level of cognitive domains and the weightage assigned to various topics. Each question was categorised as recall, comprehension, or application based on the cognitive domain it assessed. Furthermore, each question was analysed to determine the topic it pertained to, and the marks allocated to that question were assigned to the corresponding topic. Results: The majority of marks in Universities 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 were, respectively allocated as follows: 324 (80.62%), 459 (84.66%), 453 (75.5%), 895 (89.5%), and 379 (63.16%) for questions testing the recall ability of the learners. For questions assessing comprehension ability, the marks allotted were 20 (4.87%), 0, 81 (13.5%), 65 (6.5%), and 51 (8.15%). The fewest marks were assigned to questions testing application, synthesis, or evaluation abilities. Epidemiology had the highest weightage in all five Universities, with marks of 73 (18.25%), 75 (13.89%), 93 (15.5%), 141 (14.1%), and 83 (13.83%). Conclusion: The cognitive domains assessed in the subject across all five Universities were unsatisfactory. The weightage of marks allotted to topics varied, highlighting the need to develop a question paper plan that facilitates a systematic distribution based on different levels of cognitive domains and topics.
The effectiveness and applications of drones for monitoring jellyfish
Authors: Rowe Claire E , Ahyong Shane T
Published: January 2024

Jellyfish populations experience fluctuations referred to as ‘bloom and busts’, with numbers rapidly increasing followed by their sudden disappearance. When jellyfish numbers are blooming, they have a complicated relationship with their surrounding environment (predators, competitors, but also a food source), and with humans (sting swimmers, but also source of income and food). As a result, it is important to have a precise and efficient tool for monitoring jellyfish populations. In this extended abstract, we will review studies that have used drones to monitor and track different species of jellyfish, identify the advantages and limitations across these studies, and suggest methods to be adopted when using drones to monitor jellyfish.
Demographic Influences on Creativity and Learning Styles in Elementary School Students
Authors: Jana Prasenjit , Mohakud Lalit Lalitav , Khan Sharif , Ghorai Nanda Dulal , Naskar Kamalesh
Published: January 2024

The aim of this cross-sectional survey was to investigate creativity (in terms of elaboration ability, originality) and learning style preferences of 303 elementary school students randomly selected from Grade-VI, VII and VIII, from schools of Paschim Medinipur district in the state of West Bengal, India. Creativity was measured using Baqer Mehdi’s Non-Verbal Test of Creative Thinking. Learning style preferences were assessed using the Learning Style Inventory developed by Richard Oliver. Collected data were analysed concerning the age, grade, gender, and social caste of the participants through frequency, mean, standard deviation, percentage, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA and Chi Square test. Results revealed that age positively influence elaboration ability, with younger students displayed higher originality. Originality, and overall creativity did not show significant variations across age groups. Grade-VIII students performed best in all aspects of creativity; however, significant difference was present only in elaboration ability. No significant differences based on gender and social caste were observed in all aspects of creativity. A significant age and social caste difference was observed in learning style preferences, however, grade and gender differences were not found. Majority of students preferred unimodal learning styles, with visual learners demonstrating higher elaboration and originality. Elaboration ability was significantly influenced by learning styles preferences, however originality and overall creativity were invariant. The research fills the gap in existing literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of creativity and learning style preferences, offering insights into their combined impact on elementary school students' educational experiences. The findings contribute to the fields of education and social sciences, guiding educators and policymakers in adopting personalized learning approaches based on individual learning styles. This study underscores the significance of understanding creativity and learning styles concerning demographic factors, promoting inclusive and equitable educational practices for elementary school students.
Monitoring the Air-fuel Ratio (AFR) of a Biomass Gasification Process with an Arduino Uno 3 and a Narrow Band Lambda Oxygen Sensor
Authors: Salou Hamidou , Fidele Nzihou Jean , Ousmane Zoundi , Frederic Ouattara , Gerard Segda Bila
Published: January 2024

The Air-Fuel Ratio is one of the keys parameters for driving the gasification process. Monitoring of oxygen percentage in flue gases is one of various ways of controlling efficiency and emissions of industrial combustion. Biomass gasification is a thermochemical degradation of the biomass that is accomplished with the Air-Fuel Ratio less than the stochiometric one that is used in the combustion.

Unfortunately, flue gases analyzers in combustion processes are expensive and not accessible to small scale industries. This is particularly true in developing countries. The Lambda sensor used in the automotive industry is an oxygen sensor which controls the electronic injection of the modern internal combustion vehicles.

The aim of this study is to present one simple method of measuring the oxygen concentration and calculate the Air-Fuel Ratio in synthesis gas produced by a downdraft biomass gasifier by the use of an Arduino Uno 3 microcontroller and an automotive Lambda sensor. This method use the voltage signals developed by a heated 4 wires Lambda sensor and the Nernst Equation to calculate oxygen concentration in the producer gas and derive the Air-Fuel Ratio.

Results presented in this article show that this method is a simple and cost-effective way to monitor Air-Fuel Ratio in a biomass gasifier.
Impacts of Long-Term Nutrient Management Based on Soil Test and Crop Response on Soil Health and Yield Sustainability in Typic Haplustalf
Authors: Haokip Immanuel Chongboi , Devi M Homeshwari , BH Sunil , Srivastava Sanjay , Subhash  , Santhi R
Published: January 2024

We studied the effect of soil tests and crop response-based long-term nutrient management on yield sustainability and soil health under rice-rice system in a Typic Haplustalf. The experiment was designed in randomized block design having five treatments, viz, control, the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), STCR–NPK for target yield of 6 t ha–1 for kharif rice and 5 t ha–1 for rabi rice (STCR–NPK6), STCR–NPK for 7 t ha–1  for kharif rice and 6 t ha–1  for rabi rice (STCR–NPK7), and STCR–IPNS for 7 t ha–1 for kharif rice and 6 t ha–1 for rabi rice (STCR–IPNS7), and these treatments were replicated thrice. The 10-year mean data suggested that minimum yield was observed from control whereas highest was achieved in STCR–IPNS7 in both kharif as well as rabi seasons. The highest sustainable yield index (SYI) was 0.93 in kharif and 0.77 in rabi rice was observed under STCR–IPNS7, and lowest in control. Soil fertility status revealed that disregard for external application of nutrients resulted in depletion of 108 kg N, 11.6 kg P, and 200 kg K ha-1 and intensity of nutrient depletion was lowest in STCR–IPNS followed by STCR–NPK7, STCR–NPK6, and RDF. The urease, phosphatase, and dehydrogenase activities and microbial biomass C were found to be higher in STCR–IPNS when compared with other nutrient management practices while minimum values were recorded in the control.
Advances in Precision Agriculture Technologies for Sustainable Crop Production
Authors: Singh Vikram
Published: January 2024

Precision agriculture (PA) encompasses a set of technologies that allow farmers to collect data on variations within fields and manage crops at a more granular level. PA technologies include sensors, satellite imagery, information management tools and variable rate application systems. Together, these enable data-driven, site-specific decision making to optimize productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. This review examines recent advances in PA technologies and their role in supporting sustainable crop production. Key developments reviewed include remote sensing platforms and techniques, proximal soil sensors, variable rate systems, robotics and automation, and decision support tools powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning. Challenges and future directions are also discussed. Widespread adoption of PA technologies has the potential to increase yields and profitability for farmers while reducing use of inputs such as water, nutrients, and pesticides. However, barriers to adoption exist, including costs, technical complexity, and integration challenges. Continued innovation and knowledge transfer will be critical to unlocking the full promise of PA for sustainable agriculture.
Construction of AGRISERV Scale to Assess the Service Quality of Agricultural Service Providers in Karnataka, India
Authors: Kambale Parashuram , Goudappa S. B. , Sashidhara K. K.  , Kammar Shivanand , Reddy BS , Katti Pramod
Published: January 2024

The research being conducted in 2022–2023, describes how the AGRISERV scale was developed to assess the quality of service rendered by Karnataka's agricultural service providers from the perspective of the farmers. The construction of the scale followed the guidelines provided by Parasuraman et al. 1998. An informational questionnaire that was self-administered was completed by fifty farmers. The multi-item scale consists of 22 items total from five dimensions: Assurance, Responsiveness, Empathy, Tangibility, and Dependability. The scale was standardized using the item whose Cronbach's alpha value fell between 0.73 and 0.83 for each of the five dimensions. Utilizing the validity, factor structure, and a1n6d reliability, the scale was standardized. The combined reliability of the 22 items was 0.92, indicating that the scale was internally consistent. The analysis indicated that the scale had construct, content, and face validity. The final scale on a five-point continuum was presented to the farmers.
Effects of Weed Management on Soil Microbiological Properties in Groundnut Production
Authors: Adigun M. O.  , Babalola O. A.
Published: January 2024

To quantify the efficacy of effective weed control methods and spacing of groundnut on soil microbiological properties, a field experiment was conducted between 2009 and 2010 at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, a sub-humid region of southwestern Nigeria. Treatments were five levels of weed control (codal gold 1.6 kg a.i/ha, codal gold 1.6 kg a.i/ha + hoe weeding, codal gold 2.4 kg a.i/ha, hoe weeding and a control (weedy check); two levels of spacing (15 cm and 25 cm) and eight levels of weeding intervals on soil microbial biomass, nodulation, the biomass of root and shoot as well as yield of groundnut in a split-plot design fitted into a randomized complete block design. The results indicated that both levels of spacing have no significant effect on the soil microbiological parameters, groundnut biomass production, nodulation and yield. So, the levels of weed control have no significant effect on groundnut biomass production and nodulation but showed a significant effect on microbial biomass carbon (MBC), microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN), total fungal count, pod count and pod weight of groundnut with plots kept weedy throughout the experiment at 25 cm intra row spacing having 34 % MBC more than plots kept weed free throughout the experiment at the same spacing.
Two‐Directional TiNi Shape Memory Alloy Film
Authors: Takagi H. , Okano K. , Juodkazis S. , Matsuo S. , Misawa H.
Published: October 2003

A change from a memorized convex to a concave curvature between 10 °C for the martensitic and 50 °C for the austenitic transition is the important feature of a novel two‐directional shape TiNi memory alloy film fabricated by sputtering. The key to two‐directional actuation is Ti3Ni4 precipitate formation attained by an Ni enrichment (55.6 %) in the alloy. The Figure shows the bending of a strip placed over a steaming cup of tea after 0.1 to 0.4 seconds.
Ex‐situ Formation Periodic Interlayer Structure to Improve Significantly the Impact Damage Resistance of Carbon Laminates
Authors: Yi X.‐S. , An X. , Tang B. , Pan Y.
Published: October 2003

A periodically interleaved carbon laminate system, wherein solid thermoplastic thin layers are interleaved into each carbon ply, has been fabricated by means of an “ex‐situ” type synthesis in which the thermoset and thermoplastic components are separated and interact only at elevated temperature. The Figure shows the boundary area between the two‐phase granular and a pure epoxy‐resin structure within a single carbon ply.
Effect of the Temperature of Molten Magnsium on the Thermal Explosion Synthesis Reaction of Al–Ti–C System for Fabricating TiC/Mg Composite
Authors: Jiang Q.C. , Wang H.‐Y. , Guan Q.‐F. , Li X.‐L.
Published: October 2003

Detailed insight into the thermal explosion synthesis (TES) of a TiC/Mg composite has been gained by the authors. SEM microstructures and XRD patterns of TiC/AZ91D obtained by TES synthesis from Mg and Al‐Ti‐C preforms reveal that the temperature of the molten Mg greatly influences the incubation time for the TES reaction and the reaction product. Thus, TiAl3 clusters present at a reaction temperature of 700 °C (see Figure) disappear when the reaction is performed at 900 °C.
Fabrication, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of Tip/Al Composite
Authors: Cui C. , Shen Y. , Li Y. , Sun J. , Kang S.‐B.
Published: October 2003

The fabrication and properties of Tip/Al (i.e. aluminum in‐situ reinforced with titanium particles, see Figure for its microstructure), a metal‐matrix composite with excellent mechanical features, are described. In their plasma jet synthesis of Tip/Al, the Ti wire feed rate, spray optimization, and electromagnetic stirring are identified as crucial for the quality of the material. Due to the different melting points of Ti and Al, the Ti droplets are instantly quenched in the liquid Al.
Voltage Breakdown in Random Composites
Authors: Gusev A.A. , Guseva O.A.
Published: October 2003

Voltage breakdown is a strongly localized phenomenon in random‐microstructure composites because the different dielectric constants of metal and polymer matrix turn a uniform external field across the structure into spatially non‐uniform local fields. The authors show that rather small computer models are sufficient to extract reliable estimates for the breakdown fields in lab‐scale samples. The Figure shows a cut through a periodic unstructured mesh of a Monte Carlo model with 27 spheres.
New Processing Techniques of Ceramic Foams
Authors: Luyten J. , Mullens S. , Cooymans J. , De Wilde A.‐M. , Thijs I.
Published: October 2003

Three alternative manufacturing techniques for ceramic foams are compared in this article: a reaction bonded‐modified (RB) polyurethane replica technique, gel casting, and a method of hollow building blocks (see Figure for a sample built up by different hollow spheres). The strength of the ceramic foams was tested by 3p‐bending and compression. Also, structural parameters were characterized by image analysis and computer‐assisted x‐ray tomography.
Deformation of PZT Under Tension, Compression, Bending, and Torsion Loading
Authors: Fett T. , Munz D.
Published: October 2003

The behavior of PZT under various external influences at a range of electric fields has been investigated in the present study. Poled and unpoled PIC 151, a commercial soft PZT, was subjected to strain measurements in pure tension and compression tests, thin‐walled tubes of the unpoled material also to torsion tests to study the deformation under biaxial loading. These tests allow to determine the non‐symmetric yield condition for the plastic deformations and to describe it with the Drucker‐Prager criterion.