bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Assessment of The Latifiya Expressway Segment Using a Proactive Approach
Authors: Jameel Aya Hassan , Jameel Abeer
Published: September 2024

Road safety assessment is an essential step in the management of transportation projects. The proactive approach in the safety assessment considers the pre-construction stage to reduce the likelihood of road accidents. This research aims to assess the risk of road infrastructure in Iraq by applying the most recent methodology based on road features and supported traffic data. The selected methodology significantly contributes to enhancing a proactive approach to road safety and incorporating risk assessment in the planning and design stages of road projects. A segment of 15km from the beginning of the Latifiya expressway was selected for this study and assessed using the international road assessment program methodology. Data on road features and traffic were collected for this goal; where data on 38 aspects of road features is collected. The traffic data includes traffic volume and spot speed. Then these data were coded and processed using VIDA online web. The assessment results were presented for three road user groups: vehicle riders, pedestrians, and motorcyclists. The results showed that the assessed segment has a high-risk level; 1 to 3 stars for vehicle riders and 1 star for motorcyclists and pedestrians. Countermeasures were presented, and their efficiency was tested to raise the star rating for all road user groups to five stars.
Development of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Lightweight Aggregates
Authors: Graytee Ahmed , Mehdi Hayder
Published: September 2024

This research delves into the utilization of microwave hybrid heating as a curing technique for producing fine aggregates from fly ash. Various concentrations of alkali activator solutions were employed as binders to pelletize the fly ash (ranging from 0% to 10%). The resultant green fly ash-based geopolymer (FAG) aggregates were subjected to a 15-minute microwave kiln treatment. The microwave-sintered FAG fine aggregates, varying in sizes from 0.60 to 2.36 mm, were then utilized to fabricate 50 mm cubic cement mortar samples. Findings indicated that the density of FAG aggregates was approximately 36% lower than that of natural sand, while the water absorption capacity of FAG aggregates exhibited a fivefold increase compared to natural sand. Notably, cement mortar samples made with FAG aggregate of 4% alkali activator exhibited maximum compressive strengths of 31, 37, and 42 MPa at 7, 14, and 28 days of curing, respectively. These compressive strengths were only 12% lower than those of cement mortars made with natural sand across all curing periods. The use of microwave hybrid heating to transform fly ash into aggregates with sufficient strength appears viable, suggesting that these manufactured FAG aggregates could serve as substitutes for natural aggregates in concrete production
Enhancing Hydraulic Performance and Discharge Efficiency of a Type-C Piano Key Weir Through Stage Incorporation
Authors: A. Musa Taghreed , O.S. Alghazali Najm
Published: September 2024

Weirs are hydraulic constructions typically employed in dam spillways and channel control structures. The shape and size of the crest will determine whether the weir is linear or non-linear. Of the two types, non-linear weirs are often selected due to their ability to allow different discharge levels at the minimal heads. A recently introduced variation of the non-linear kind is the piano key weir. This research undertakes a comprehensive analysis of the hydraulic functionality of the type-C piano key weir under conditions of free flow. The research methodology involved modifying the models by adding stages to the sides and monitoring the effect on the efficacy of discharge, represented by the discharge coefficient. The study further extrapolated formulae linking critical variables to the discharge coefficient, using dimensional analysis and SPSS software. The findings of this study revealed that the introduction of stages significantly bolstered the discharge coefficient in the altered models compared to the standard model. This enhancement was reflected in a 6% and 11% ascent with length expansion of the stages and a 6% and 8% rise with height increase of the stages. Additionally, the model's performance was augmented with a drop in the total head ratio
In-situ momentum dispersion in a single crystal of MoS2
Authors: Merlo Ramirez Juan Manuel , Carhart Madeleine Hoag
Published: September 2024

In this letter, we investigate the momentum dispersion in a MoS2 flake as a function of the thickness in a single crystal with several height steps. The outcomes of our study rely on the utilization of near-field microscopy and an excitation field in the strong-coupling regime. The observed propagating modes have characteristics that are consistent with transverse magnetic (TM) modes, which can be attributed to the investigated thicknesses. Numerical simulations support our experimental findings and correspond with previously reported studies.
Thermographic study of freezing water drops: An insight on Mpemba effect
Authors: Balbuena Ortega Argelia , Hernández Figueroa Emiliano , Del Rio Portilla Antonio
Published: September 2024

Despite decades of research, the Mpemba Effect challenges scientists, prompting further investigation and refinement of existing hypotheses. This work uses optical tools such as thermography to analyze and study the Mpemba effect on drops. We analyze times and contact angle changes with temperature with an easily controlled experiment. This work contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding the Mpemba Effect, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and experimental rigor to unravel the complexities of this intriguing phenomenon. A deeper understanding of the Mpemba Effect enhances our knowledge of thermodynamics and fluid dynamics and opens avenues for practical applications in fields such as cryopreservation, meteorology, and materials science.
PDM-Coulombic effects of non-inertial cosmic string on a Klein-Gordon oscillator
Authors: Boumali Abdelmalek , Bouzenada A. , Messai N. , Mustafa O.
Published: September 2024

This paper addresses the problem of a three-dimensional Klein-Gordon oscillator with position-dependent mass in a non-inertial cosmic string background. We provide solutions to this problem and analyze the eigensolutions, considering the influence of non-inertial effects and the presence of position-dependent mass (PDM) on the eigenvalues. Expressions are obtained for the bound state energies and wave functions.
Paramagnetism found in Mn-doped CuO nanofibers at room temperature explained by XPS , XAS and Rietveld method
Authors: Piñon-Espitia M. , Duarte Moller JOSE ALBERTO , Verdugo-Miranda S. , López-Walle B. , Ochoa-Lara M. T.
Published: September 2024

CuO and 3 % Mn-doped CuO nanofibers were synthesized employing the electrospinning method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) verified a monoclinic phase with a C 2/c space group. An electronic density analysis, obtained using Fullprof software, was projected on the (110) and (001) planes for both materials, showing modifications in the Cu positions. This fact generated vacancies involved in the paramagnetism formation in the Mn-doped CuO nanofibers, in contrast to the mixed magnetic phase composed by both ferromagnetic and paramagnetic behaviors found in the undoped CuO. The vacancy amount was quantified by X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) applying CASTEP software. In addition, an analysis from Cu 2p XPS peaks supports the predicted Cu-Cu rearrangement by the Fullprof software study, while the presence of Cu1+ confirms the substitution of Mn for Cu in the doped sample.
An exact treatment of localization of electromagnetic plus separable potential
Authors: BEHERA ASHWINI KUMAR , Swain B. , Laha U. , Bhoi J.
Published: September 2024

Equivalent local potential with energy-momentum dependence is developed for the combined interaction of Hulthén modified Yamaguchi potential by developing its exact Jost solution. The generated local potentials are applied to compute scattering phase parameters for (p-p) and (p-d) systems through the phase function method (PFM). The same are also calculated for the nonlocal potential from the expression of the Fredholm determinant. Our obtained data for both the energy-momentum dependent local and the pure nonlocal interactions are in reasonable agreement with the standard data. Reasonable correspondence between the results for the phase equivalent and the nonlocal potentials indicate that our equivalent local analysis is in proper order.
Oxidation kinetics of Ti6Al4V alloy deposited by wire arc additive manufacturing using argon gas as processing atmosphere
Authors: Ordaz-Cervantes J. E. , Morales Estrella Ricardo , Ortiz-Lara N. , Reyes-Gordillo E. , Espinosa-Arbelaez D. G.
Published: September 2024

Ti6Al4V alloy is currently the most common metal alloy of the α+β phase type, its application is increasing as it has excellent properties at elevated temperatures. The main users of Ti6Al4V alloy are industries like of  aerospace, naval, and biomedical; therefore, Ti6Al4V alloys one of the most studied material worldwide. One of the great advantages that Ti6Al4V alloy offers is the possibility of manufacturing components in situ by means of additive technologies.. Similar studies, in additive manufacturing, have reported the formation of titanium oxide on the surface of the material, followed by an oxygen-enriched region called "α-case". By means of thermogravimetric analysis, the oxidation effect on the surface of Ti6Al4V samples, obtained  by wire arc additive manufacturing as well as samples from conventional manufacture, were studied. Argon gas, with an oxygen partial pressure of 1x10-5 atm, was used as the oxidation atmosphere within a range of 550°C to 950°C and oxidatión times of 60 min and 180 min.  For the oxidation reaction, the kinetic analyses led to calculate the activation energy as 250 kJ/mol and 166 kJ/mol for the Ti6Al4V alloy processed by conventinal and additive manufacturing, respectively. The results of the of thermogravimetric analysis were fitted to a parabolic-type kinetic model. Furthemore, a mathematical model was proposed to predict the oxidation kinetics. The experimental data were fitted to the mathematical model in the range of 750 - 950°C for Ti6Al4V alloy by wire arc additive manufacturing.  The oxidized microstructures were analized by optical and electronic microscopy finding α-case on the surface of the samples.
IBN KHALDŪN’S BIOGRAPHY
Authors: Merican Ahmad Murad
Published: September 2024

Ibn Khaldūn and his Muqaddimah is a continuing project on the European intellectual map. For a long time, most of his works was studied by the French. The same cannot be said of the Malaysian intellectual Malaysian landscape. Ibn Khaldūn, of course, makes an attractive option for academic courses and readings in a variety of disciplines. This essay attempts to recast Ibn Khaldūn in the Malaysian intellectual landscape viz discourses on global history and approaching the study of civilization from a sociological and historical perspective. The sentiment echoes more of the Western engagement with the polymath. Malaysian university campuses are ambivalent. The Khaldunian corpus is almost non existent. The West has attempted to modernize Ibn Khaldūn. Some have construed this as “denaturing” him, accusing the thinker of “anticipatory plagiarism.” The Muslim world has been subdued in defending such accusations against him. There is no worthy defence. This essay uses the framework from Robert Irwin in his Ibn Khaldun: An Intellectual Biography. We ask who was Ibn Khaldūn writing for? For the state and authority? Or for himself? Some of the earliest beneficiaries of the Khaldunian corpus was the Ottoman state. This essay notes the disconnect between Ibn Khaldūn and the practice of modern history and social science. The Muqaddimah has largely been ignored as course or as text in the various social science disciplines. The corpus is not seen as providing an alternative form of knowledge. Irwin, however, provides a critical examination of Ibn Khaldūn’s magnum opus, and the political and intellectual climate that he thrived on. As a scholar, Ibn Khaldūn was partisan and certainly close to political institutions. Objective and universal knowledge is not blind to the human condition. Even when deciding to take a reprieve in writing, he sought the protection of a powerful tribe in the hinterland, the Awlad ‘Arif in what is now western Algeria. This essay serves as a contribution to the discourse on the Khaldunian history and sociology.
INTRODUCING EXISTENTIALIST PEDAGOGICAL APPROACHES FOR CULTIVATING AUTHENTICITY IN ISLAMIC EDUCATION
Authors: Malick Elias
Published: September 2024

The Arab Muslim world has had brief encounters with “Western Existentialism,” a post-Enlightenment European literary movement, during the nineteenth century. (Di-Capua, Existentialism 70 years After 2019) mentions it was introduced by Alexander Koyré, a fleeing Russian French immigrant who took up a teaching position at a Cairo university thereby exposing a generation of young Egyptians, to Sartre and Merleau-Ponty the likes of Husserl and Heidegger. Most notable among them was Abdur Rahmān Badawī (b.1917-d.2002). Since then, different Arab and Islamic forms of existentialist thought evolved in literary works aimed at decolonialisation and suppression around the Arab Muslim world. Though this article is not a follow up of those early achievement it sets out to highlight key issues and themes of what a speculative “Islamic” existentialist approach to education practice (thereafter referred to as EIEPs) must consider.
Ma Huan MA 马欢 (1380-1460) and His Yingya Shenglan 瀛涯 胜览
Authors: Omar Min Keqin
Published: September 2024

Very little is known about Ma Huan’s life. We know that his styled name was Zongdao宗道, also Ruqing 汝钦, and his self-appellation as “vulgar woodman of Kuaiji” (Kuaiji shanqiao会稽山樵). Kuaiji 会稽 is an old name for modern Shaoxing绍兴 in Zhejiang province. He was born in 1380 CE to a traditional Muslim family. At about six or seven years of age, he most probably started education in one of the mosques near to his native town. Later, he excelled, in addition to his Chinese proficiency, in Arabic and Persian languages. He was employed by the Admiral Zheng He (1371-1433) as his translator (tongshi通事). Among the crews of Zheng He’s expeditions4 from 1405 to 1433, Ma Huan was one of the few civilian personnel, who played roles as propagandists (jiaoyu 教谕) of the Chinese Emperor’s promulgations and Chinese cultures, as well as an imam for Muslim crews.
SAMUEL JOHNSON'S THOUGHTS ABOUT ISLAM
Authors: Hüseyin Çaksen
Published: September 2024

This review essay is about a late nineteenth-century book on Islam written by an American Orientalist Samuel Johnson (1822-1882). Johnson was a clergyman, a consecrated minister, a scholar of large attainments, an author, and by nature a poet. More especially, he was a student and interpreter of the Far Eastern religions. Whatever his work, he brought into it an open, cultivated, and philosophic mind. The most enduring monument to Johnson’s labour is his scholarly and philosophical study of the Oriental Religions: India (1872); China (1877); and Persia (1885). This study engaged him during his whole ministry and to the end of his life.
From Decolonization to Ethnonationalism
Authors: Wan Ali Wan Mamat  , Abdul Rahman Ali
Published: September 2024

The history syllabus and textbooks in the Malaya/Malaysia education system became a matter of interest only within the few years before the country’s independence in 1957 to eventually become a controversy among concerned educationists and academicians. During the British colonial period, the syllabus and textbooks, despite being European-centric/English oriented and far from being Malayan in form and content, were generally accepted without much dispute, perhaps because during this period the number of local historians and educated elites were still small. Education in the country was then under the colonial dominance. Furthermore, history teachers, having been educated under the British colonial system, even after some years of independence were more familiar and at ease with the old colonial curriculum. However, after Malaya (later Malaysia) gained Independence from the British in 1957 and Malaysia in 1963, the controversy about the right approach in the teaching of Malayan history came to the fore. The main contentious issue about the history curriculum was Malayanization and Malaysia-centric versus Euro-centric syllabus.
NORMS OF RISE AND FALL OF CIVILIZATIONS IN THE QUR’AN: BENEFICIAL KNOWLEDGE AND JUSTICE AS A MODEL
Authors: Islam Arshad , Taha Al-Alwani Ruqaia
Published: September 2024

This paper deals with some of the norms of the establishment and emergence of civilizations according to the Qur’an and analyses the components of such norms. The Qur’an gives explicit attention to the laws and norms on which human societies and civilizations are based, directly and indirectly, by telling the stories of peoples in past eras. The Qur’an also emphasizes that giving priority to the pursuit of material aspects and elements of societies while neglecting their religious and moral aspects is a reason for the decline and collapse of civilizations, as was the case with the people of Sheba. This paper clarifies that the most important norms of the establishment of civilizations include focusing attention on beneficial knowledge and instilling the value of justice in society. The study explores some conditions of previous nations that vanished owing to the absence of these two basic elements, as mentioned in the Qur’an. In conclusion, this article argues for further studies of the Quranic approach to the issue of the rise and fall of human civilizations. Contemporary societies need to be enlightened by the Quranic perspectives on the issue in the light of the present human condition.
Book Review: AL-BUTI AND THE SYRIAN REVOLUTION by Bachar Bakour
Authors: Altabaa Homam , Iskandar Iylia Marsya
Published: September 2024

Bachar Bakour, Al-Buti and the Syrian Revolution. Islamic Book Trust, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, 2020. 349 pp. ISBN-10: 9670526817; ISBN-13: 978-9670526812.
Bachar Bakour’s Al-Buti and The Syrian Revolution underscores, through balanced academic analysis, a critical juncture in the history of contemporary Syria, where a horrific war claimed the lives of thousands and displaced millions of others in a calamitous manner around the world. The author has thoroughly examined al-Buti's views on the Syrian revolution and the ensuing war. His insights into al-Buti's legal and maqasidic thinking were based on interviews, document analysis and his personal experience as a young Syrian scholar. The book provides critical insights into al-Buti's positions on the Syrian Revolution and political Islam, Islamist movements and his relationship with the ruling family in Syria.
THE CONFUSED WHALE OF THE CHINA SEA: WATER SYMBOLISM IN THE WORKS OF HAMZAH FANSURI
Authors: Amir H. Zekrgoo
Published: September 2024

Perhaps the most valuable contribution of Hamzah Fansuri to the elevation of intellectual and spiritual traditions of Islam was his tireless efforts to create a harmonious atmosphere between the stern followers of religious law (shari‘ah) and the Sufi ways of self-purification (ṭariqah). The renowned 16th century Malay mystic used simple language to communicate his thoughts to average audience. In order to add clarity to his arguments he often resorted to symbols and metaphors that made his discussions more appealing. This essay begins with a brief introductory remark about the importance of water in religious traditions, followed by a passage on Sufi symbolism in Hamzah’s writings. Among the wide range of symbolic expressions adopted by Hamzah, water-related-metaphors occupy the highest place – both from the viewpoint of their frequent appearance, and in terms of profoundness of their suggestive meanings. Hence, the main body of the paper focuses on water symbolism in Hamzah’s treatises and poems, which is presented under seven headings namely: Waters of Life, Ocean of Unity, Currents of Creation, Waves of Manifestation, Bubbles of Identity, The Confused Whale, and The Brilliant Fish.
MODELING THE DYNAMICS OF FOREST ECOSYSTEMS TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THEIR STRUCTURAL HETEROGENEITY AT DIFFERENT FUNCTIONAL AND SPATIAL LEVELS
Authors:   Institute of Physicochemical and Biological Problems in Soil Science, Shanin V. N. ,   Center for Forest Ecology and Productivity of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Frolov P. V. , Priputina I. V. , Chertov O. G. ,   Bingen University of Applied Sciences, Bykhovets S. S. , Zubkova E. V. , Portnov A. M. , Frolova G. G. , Stamenov M. N. , Grabarnik P. Y.
Published: September 2024

Many problems of modern forest ecology require analysis of the conjugated dynamics of processes occurring at different spatio-temporal scales of the functioning of plant communities and soils resulted from their interaction under the influence of all edaphic and anthropogenic factors. Mathematical models can be an effective tool for such analysis. The aim of this study is to present the implementation of new model system that makes it possible to reproduce in simulation experiments the spatial structure of forest phytocenoses formed by tree and grass-shrub layers, as well as associated heterogeneity of soil conditions and the diversity of ecological niches at different hierarchical levels. To determine the required level of detail of the spatial heterogeneity of forest biogeocenoses related to the processes of their multi-scale functioning, experimental studies were carried out on permanent sampling plots in the Prioksko-Terrasny State Natural Biosphere Reserve and in the «Kaluzhskie Zaseki» State Nature Reserve. The spatial structure of communities and related heterogeneity of ecological conditions were studied using traditional soil and geobotanical, as well as modern instrumental methods. The obtained data were used to construct the algorithms and to estimate the parameters of different blocks of the new system of models. The implementation of a spatially-explicit process-based system of models has shown its ability to reproduce the dynamics of forest ecosystems, taking into account the species composition and spatial structure of different layers of vegetation and the associated patchiness of soil conditions. Due to a wide range of interrelated ecosystem characteristics implemented in the system of models it is possible to simulate productivity, biological turnover of C and N, and the dynamics of forest ecosystems, taking into account their typical spatial structure at different scales. This improves understanding of ecosystem processes and their contribution to maintaining the sustainable functioning of forests, which can be used for predictive assessments of the efficiency of forest management techniques and in solving other forestry and environmental problems.
IDENTIFICATION OF DIFFERENT HOST PLANTS IN COMMERCIALLY GROWN SANDAL WOOD (SANTALUM ALBUM) PLANTATIONS IN SRI LANKA
Authors:   Department of Crop Science Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sewwandi Y. G. C. , Arunakumara K. K. I. U. , Marikar F. M. M. T. ,   Staff Development Centre, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
Published: September 2024

Sandalwood (Santalum album) is an obligatory parasite plant that needs an adequate host to survive. Primary in-pot hosts, intermediate hosts, and long-term (secondary) hosts are the three stages of parasitism which have so far been recognized. The success of the establishment and survival of sandalwood plants in the field depends entirely on the other woody plants that could serve as hosts. Through root associations known as haustoria, which are vascular connections between the roots of sandalwood and its host plant, sandalwood obtains certain supplements from its host plant. Trees contribute to its growth. Thus, this study was conducted to identify intermediate and long-term (secondary) host plants in eight different commercial sandalwood plantations, which belong to Sadaharitha Plantations, representing five districts in Sri Lanka. Identification of host plants was made by carefully observing the presence of nodule-like haustoria in the root system and the physical connection between host roots and sandalwood roots. A total of 21 host plant species, namely: Sesbenia grandiflora (Kathurumurunga), Acacia acuminate (Acacia), Clitoria ternatea (Katarolu), Lantana camara (Gadapana), Leucaena leucocephala (Ipil ipil), Azadirachta indica (Neem), Crotalaria juncea (Sunn hemp), Imperata cylindrica (Iluk), Achyranthes aspera (Karal sabo), Tectona grandis (Teak), Coccos nucifera (Coconut), Vernoina zeylanica (Pupula), Tithonia diversifolian (Wild sun flower), Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea), Camonea umbellate (Madu wel), Ipomoea pestigridis (Diwi pahuru), Musa spp (Banana), Gliricidia sepium (Gliricidia), Passiflora foetida (Pada), Grewia orientalis (Wel Keliya) were identified as intermediate or long-term host plants. Long-term further studies are needed to evaluate their comparative effeteness as host plants before recommending them as host plants for commercial-scale sandalwood plantations.
Focused ultrasound for the treatment of facet joint pain: a systematic review
Authors: Mahapatra Smruti , Francois Hendrick , Weber-Levine Carly , Jiang Kelly , Bhimreddy Meghana , Boateng Atta , Davidar A. Daniel , Routkevitch Denis , Chhatre Akhil , Manbachi Amir , Theodore Nicholas
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

Chronic low-back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and traditional pharmacotherapy fails to provide relief for many individuals with this condition. An estimated 15% of chronic LBP cases can be attributed to the facet joint. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a recent technology that enables noninvasive thermal ablation of tissue and has shown efficacy in treating tumors, neuropathic pain, and painful bone metastases. In this systematic review, the authors summarize the literature on lumbar facet joint–mediated pain treated with HIFU and report the effectiveness of HIFU on pain outcomes.

METHODS

All full-text English-language articles describing the use of focused ultrasound for facet joint pain were screened using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Clinical studies were assessed for bias using the methodological index for nonrandomized studies.

RESULTS

Eleven studies (6 preclinical and 5 clinical) reporting on 50 patients were included. Eight of these studies (73%) used MR-guided focused ultrasound ablation and 3 used fluoroscopy. The medial branch nerve and posterior facet joint capsule were the most common targets for focused ablation. Although the energy used ranged from 300 to 2000 J, clinical studies predominantly operated in the range of 1000 to 1500 J. Pain reduction was seen in all clinical studies, with multiple-point reductions from average baseline pain scores in 6–12 months. No study reported any adverse events or complications.

CONCLUSIONS

HIFU can be effective in treating chronic low-back pain arising from the facet joint. Further clinical studies should explore the long-term effects of HIFU and monitor changes in pain reduction over time.
Magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound in the treatment of refractory essential tremor: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mortezaei Ali , Essibayi Muhammed Amir , Mirahmadi Eraghi Mohammad , Alizadeh Mohammadreza , Taghlabi Khaled M. , Eskandar Emad N. , Faraji Amir H.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

Magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is an emerging treatment for medication-refractory essential tremor (ET). The objective of this study was to evaluate long-term (up to 5 years) safety and efficacy of unilateral MRgFUS in the treatment of ET.

METHODS

The authors performed a systematic search through 4 databases to find relevant clinical studies. Binary outcomes were analyzed and reported as odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, while continuous outcomes were analyzed and reported as standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals. Furthermore, a univariable meta-regression was performed to evaluate the association between various covariates and the outcomes including the mean difference in the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor (CRST) score and hand tremor scores. Sensitivity analysis was performed to address any heterogeneity.

RESULTS

A total of 43 studies comprising 1818 patients with ET who underwent MRgFUS were identified. Of the 1539 patients with data on sex, 1095 (71.2%) were male. The mean follow-up duration ranged from 3 months to 8.4 years among the studies. The mean total CRST score significantly decreased at 3, 6, and 12 months post-MRgFUS (SMD −4.5, p = 0.0069; SMD −4.9, p = 0.0045; and SMD −2.95, p = 0.0039, respectively). The mean hand tremor scores significantly mitigated at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months post-MRgFUS (SMD −3.99, p = 0.05; SMD −4.5, p = 0.05; SMD −1.99, p < 0.0001; SMD − 2.07, p = 0.0002; and SMD −2.1, p < 0.0001, respectively). Furthermore, the mean Quality of Life in Essential Tremor Questionnaire scores were improved at 3 months (SMD −2.8, p = 0.0025), 6 months (SMD −4.1, p = 0.04), 12 months (SMD −1.57, p = 0.0004), 2 years (SMD −1.64, p = 0.0003), and 3 years (SMD −1.14, p = 0.08). Our meta-regression findings showed that sex (p = 0.03), unlike age, handedness, symptom duration, and peak energy levels at 3 months, was associated with a significantly higher mean difference in tremor severity.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis provides strong evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of unilateral MRgFUS for the treatment of ET in terms of tremor severity and quality of life with acceptable adverse events.
MR-guided focused ultrasound in pediatric neurosurgery: current insights, technical challenges, and lessons learned from 45 treatments at Children’s National Hospital
Authors: Keating Gregory F. , Chesney Kelsi M. , Patel Nirali , Kilburn Lindsay , Fonseca Adriana , Packer Roger J. , Challa Chaitanya , O’Brien Patrick F. , Donoho Daniel A. , Myseros John S. , Oluigbo Chima , Keating Robert F. , Syed Hasan R.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is an evolving technology with numerous present and potential applications in pediatric neurosurgery. The aim of this study was to describe the use of MRgFUS, technical challenges, complications, and lessons learned at a single children’s hospital.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed of a prospectively collected database of all pediatric patients undergoing investigational use of MRgFUS for treatment of various neurosurgical pathologies at Children’s National Hospital. Treatment details, clinical workflow, and standard operating procedures are described. Patient demographics, procedure duration, and complications were obtained through a chart review of anesthesia and operative reports.

RESULTS

In total, 45 MRgFUS procedures were performed on 14 patients for treatment of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (n = 12), low-grade glioma (n = 1), or secondary dystonia (n = 1) between January 2022 and April 2024. The mean age at treatment was 9 (range 5–22) years, and 64% of the patients were male. With increased experience, the total anesthesia time, sonication time, and change in core body temperature during treatment all significantly decreased. Complications affected 4.4% of patients, including 1 case of scalp edema and 1 patient with a postprocedure epidural hematoma. Device malfunction requiring abortion of the procedure occurred in 1 case (2.2%). Technical challenges related to transducer malfunction and sonication errors occurred in 6.7% and 11.1% of cases, respectively, all overcome by subsequent user modifications.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors describe the largest series on MRgFUS technical aspects in pediatric neurosurgery at a single institution, comprising 45 total treatments. This study emphasizes potential technical challenges and provides valuable insights into the nuances of its application in pediatric patients.
A review of sonodynamic therapy for brain tumors
Authors: Hutton Dana L. , Burns Terry C. , Hossain-Ibrahim Kismet
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is gaining attention as a promising new noninvasive brain tumor treatment that targets and selectively kills tumor cells, with limited side effects. This review examines the mechanisms of SDT and ongoing clinical trials looking at optimization of sonication parameters for potential treatment of glioblastoma (GBM) and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). The results in the first patient with recurrent GBM treated at the Mayo Clinic are briefly discussed.

METHODS

The authors of this literature review used electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, and OVID. Articles reporting relevant preclinical and clinical trials were identified by searching for text words/phrases and MeSH terms, including the following: "sonodynamic therapy," "SDT," "focused ultrasound," "5-ALA," "ALA," "brain tumors," "diffuse pontine glioma," "glioblastoma," and "high grade glioma."

RESULTS

Preclinical and clinical trials investigating the specific use of SDT in brain tumors were reviewed. In preclinical models of high-grade glioma and GBM, SDT has shown evidence of targeted tumor cell death via the production of reactive oxygen species. Emerging clinical trial results within recurrent GBM and DIPG show evidence of successful treatment response, with minimal side effects experienced by recruited patients. So far, SDT has been shown to be a promising noninvasive cancer treatment that is well tolerated by patients. The authors present pilot data suggesting good radiological response of GBM to a single SDT treatment, with unpublished observation of a lack of off-target effects even after multiple (monthly) sonication outpatient treatments. The scope of the clinical trials of SDT is to investigate whether it can be the means by which the fatal diagnosis of GBM or DIPG is converted into that of a chronic, treatable disease.

CONCLUSIONS

SDT is safe, repeatable, and better tolerated than both chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It has been shown to have an effect in human cancer therapy, but more clinical trials are needed to establish standardized protocols for sonosensitizer delivery, treatment parameters, and combination therapies. The most appropriate timing of treatment also remains to be determined—whether to prevent recurrence in the postoperative period, or as a salvage option in patients with recurrent GBM for which redo surgery is inappropriate. It is hoped that SDT will also be developed for a wider spectrum of clinical indications, such as metastases, meningioma, and low-grade glioma. Further clinical trials are in preparation.
Brain targeting for focused ultrasound essential tremor ablation: proceedings from the 2023 Focused Ultrasound Foundation workshop
Authors: Chua Melissa M. J. , LeBlang Suzanne , Powlovich Lauren , Gilbertson Tom , Krishna Vibhor , Guttmann Charles R. G. , Eames Matthew D. C. , Poulsen Frantz R. , Cosgrove G. Rees
Published: September 2024

Essential tremor (ET) is the most common movement disorder globally and has negative impacts on quality of life. While medical treatments exist, approximately 50% of patients have tremor that is refractory to medication or experience intolerable medication side effects. Magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy is an option for these patients and while incisionless, it is still invasive, although less so than other surgical treatments such as deep brain stimulation and radiofrequency thalamotomy. Despite MRgFUS being FDA-approved since 2016, there is still no current consensus on the best approaches for targeting, imaging, and outcome measurement. A 2-day workshop held by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation in September of 2023 convened experts and critical stakeholders in the field to share their knowledge and experiences. The goals of the workshop were to determine the optimal target location within the thalamus and compare best practices for localizing the target and tracking patient outcomes. This paper summarizes the current landscape, important questions, and discussions that will help direct future treatments to improve patient care and outcomes.
Fatty acid profile of juvenile arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus complex) from natural ecosystems and aquaculture
Authors: Rudchenko A. E. , Karpov V. A , Sushchik N. N. , Glushchenko L. A. , Gladyshev M. I.
Published: September 2024

Significant differences in the fatty acid composition of the muscle tissue of juvenile Arctic char Salvelinus alpinus [Linnaeus, 1758] from the natural habitat (Lake Sobachye) and aquaculture, as well as juveniles of the anadromous form of char (malma) Salvelinus malma [Walbaum, 1792] from the Avacha River. The observed differences between aquaculture and wild juvenile char were associated with different food sources. The muscle tissue of juvenile char from natural habitat was characterized by significantly higher levels of fatty acids – biomarkers of diatoms, as well as biomarkers of marine copepods in the anadromous form. In the fatty acid composition of juvenile char from aquaculture, significantly higher levels of linoleic acid were revealed, as well as long-chain monounsaturated acids, the source of which could be aquaculture feed. The identified differences did not have a significant effect on the content of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids in the muscle tissue of juvenile aquaculture and wild char. The content of biochemically valuable omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in juvenile char from natural ecosystems and aquaculture was similar.
Quantitative description of the N-protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus degradation in cells stably expressing it under the influence of new modular nanotransporters
Authors: Khramtsov Y. V. , Ulasova A. V. , Lupanova T. N. , Georgiev G. P. , Sobolev A. S.
Published: September 2024

Two eukaryotic cell lines, A549 and A431, were obtained with stable expression of the nucleocapsid protein (N-protein) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus fused with the red fluorescent protein mRuby3. Using microscopy, the volumes of the cytoplasm and nucleus were determined for these cells. Using quantitative immunoblotting techniques, the concentrations of the N-mRuby3 fusion protein in their cytoplasm were assessed. They were 19 and 9 μM for A549 and A431 cells, respectively. Using these concentrations, the initial rate of N-protein degradation in the studied cells was estimated from the decrease in cell fluorescence. In A549 and A431 cells it turned out to be the same and equal to 84 nM per hour. The approach of quantitatively describing the degradation process can be applied to analyze the effectiveness of a wide class of antiviral drugs that cause degradation of viral proteins.
Hydrogels based on recombinant spidroin stimulate proliferation and migration of human cornea cells
Authors: Agapova O. I. , Ostrovsky D. S. , Khubetsova M. Kh. , Kerimov T. Z. , Borzenok S. A. , Bogush V. G. , Davydova L. I. , Cheperegin S. E. , Efimov A. E. , Agapov I. I. , Debabov V. G.
Published: September 2024

This article presents the results of studying the impact of recombinant spidroin hydrogel on posterior epithelial cells and human corneal keratocytes in an in vitro experiment. The World Health Organization in its studies has established a high prevalence of corneal injuries among the population of developing countries. In recent years, various technologies have been proposed to restore the damaged surface of the cornea. The use of biodegradable silk-based materials, such as spidroins is one of the main parts of scientific research of corneal regeneration. Spidroinsare well known for their optimal balance of strength and elasticity, which, given their biological compatibility, non-immunogenicity and biodegradability, allows them to be used as a biomaterial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In this reason a detailed assessment of the cytotoxicity of hydrogels based on recombinant rS2/12-RGDS spidroinon the epithelial cells and keratocytes was performed here, taking into attention possible changes of the phenotype and migratory activity of these cells. This study demonstrates the promise and therapeutic potential of hydrogels based on recombinant spidroin.
Identification of ultrastructural details of the astrocyte process system in neural tissue of the brain using correlative scanning probe and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Agapova О. I. , Efimov А. Е. , Obraztsova E. A. , Mochalov K. E. , Solovyeva D. O. , Oleinikov V. A. , Agapov I. I. , Gautier S. V.
Published: September 2024

Nanoscale morphological features of branched processes of glial cells may be of decisive importance for neuron-astrocytic interactions in health and disease. The paper presents the results of a correlation analysis of images of thin processes of astrocytes in the nervous tissue of the mouse brain, obtained by scanning probe microscopy and transmission electron microscopy with high spatial resolution. Samples were prepared and imaged using a unique hardware combination of ultramicrotomy and scanning probe microscopy. It was shown that the images identified details of astrocytes with a thickness of the order of tens of nanometers, which can be used in the future to reconstruct the three-dimensional structure of astrocytic processes by integrating a series of sequential images of ultrathin sections of nervous tissue.
The level of anti-viral antigen-specific antibodies to EBNA-1 in the serum of ms patients does not depend on the severity of the disease
Authors: Ovchinnikova L. А. , Dzhelad S. S. , Simaniv Т. О. , Zakharova М. N. , Gabibov А. G. , Lomakin Ya. A.
Published: September 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease leading to inevitable disability and primarily affecting the young and middle-aged population. Recent studies have shown a direct correlation between the risk of MS development and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Analysis of the titer of EBV-specific antibodies among patients with MS and healthy donors among Russian population confirmed that MS is characterized by an increased level of serum IgG binding EBNA-1 (EBV nuclear antigen 1). The number of patients with elevated levels of EBNA-1-specific antibodies does not differ statistically significantly between two groups with diametrically opposite courses of MS: benign MS or highly active MS. It can be assumed that the primary link between EBV and the development of MS is restricted to the initiation of the disease and does not impact its severity.
Anti-tumor effect of high doses of carbon ions and x-rays during irradiation of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells ex vivo
Authors: Balakin V. E. , Belyakova Т. А. , Rozanova О. М. , Smirnova E. N. , Strelnikova N. S. , Кузнецова Е. А.
Published: September 2024

The effect of carbon ions (12C) with the energy of 400 MeV/nucleon on the dynamics of induction and growth rate of solid tumors in mice under irradiation of Ehrlich’s ascites carcinoma cells (EAC) ex vivo at doses of 5–30 Gy relative to the action of equally effective doses of X-ray radiation was studied. The dynamics of tumor induction under the action of 12C and X-rays had a similar character and depended on the dose during 3 months of observation. The value of the latent period, both when irradiating cells with 12C and X-ray, increased with increasing dose, and the interval for tumor induction decreased. The rate of tumor growth after ex vivo irradiation of EAC cells was independent of either dose or type of radiation. The dose at which EAC tumors are not induced within 90 days was 30 Gy for carbon ions and 60 Gy for X-rays. The value of the relative biological effectiveness of carbon ions, calculated from an equally effective dose of 50% probability of tumors, was 2.59.
An interface-based microscopic model for the failure analysis of masonry structures reinforced with timber retrofit solutions
Authors: Greco Fabrizio , Leonetti Lorenzo , Lonetti Paolo , Nevone Blasi Paolo , Pascuzzo Arturo , Porco Giacinto
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a refined Finite Element (FE) modeling strategy for analyzing the failure behavior of regular masonry structures reinforced with timber-based retrofit solutions. The proposed model schematizes the masonry as brick units, modeled using two-dimensional linear elastic plane stress elements, mutually joined through zero-thickness cohesive interface elements. These interface elements serve to reproduce the nonlinear behavior of masonry because of the occurrence of failure mechanisms of the mortar joints. Reinforced timber frame elements are modeled using truss elements that exhibit elastic brittle fracture behavior. The interaction between the masonry sub-structure and the reinforced timber frame system is accounted for using special constraint conditions that simulate the mechanical behavior of anchorage connections. The reliability of the proposed model in reproducing the failure behavior of masonry is assessed through comparisons with experimental and numerical data available in the literature. Additionally, the efficacy of the retrofit technique based on timber frame structures is investigated in detail through pushover analyses on a two-story masonry wall representative of real-life masonry buildings. The results indicate that the proposed retrofitting strategy is an effective and eco-friendly retrofit solution to enhance the in-plane bearing capacity of masonry structures subjected to horizontal forces.
METODE PENYULUHAN ISLAM UNTUK MEREDUKSI BUDAYA PERNIKAHAN DINI DI INDONESIA
Authors: Rahmadani Amanda Putri , Subhi Muhamad Rifa'i
Published: September 2024

Indonesia merupakan negara yang menduduki peringkat empat dalam kasus pernikahan dini di dunia, dengan jumlah mencapai 25,52 juta anak yang telah melangsungkan pernikahan di usia dini. Di Bojonegoro, Pengadilan Agama (PA) mencatat ada 448 anak di bawah 19 tahun yang menikah dini pada tahun 2023. Di Karanganyar juga terdapat 40 kasus pada tahun 2024 dan 230 kasus pada tahun 2023, dengan pergaulan bebas sebagai salah satu penyebab utama. Tingginya kasus pernikahan dini di Indonesia membutuhkan perhatian khusus dari pemerintah dan penyuluh agama. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi metode penyuluhan yang efektif untuk mengurangi pernikahan dini melalui edukasi bagi anak-anak dan orang tua. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode Literatur review. Hasil temuan dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa hubungan yang baik antara anak dan orang tua serta pola asuh yang tepat dapat mengurangi pernikahan dini. Selain itu, pemberdayaan remaja juga penting untuk menghindari pergaulan bebas dan menurunkan kasus pernikahan dini di Indonesia.
ANALISIS DAMPAK KECANDUAN APLIKASI TIKTOK DAN IMPLIKASINYA TERHADAP TEKNIK SELF MANAGEMENT DI UIN MAHMUD YUNUS BATUSANGKAR
Authors: Nasution Irma Suryani , Irman Irman
Published: September 2024

Era revolusi industri 4.0, yang membuatnya menjadi era keterbukaan atau globalisasi. Kehidupan manusia di abad ke-21 telah mengalami banyak perubahan yang signifikan. Perubahan yang cepat termasuk dalam bidang teknologi informasi dan digital, terutama dengan munculnya jejaring sosial atau media sosial yang telah menjadi bagian tak terpisahkan dari kehidupan semua orang, tanpa memandang status sosial atau pendidikan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dampak aplikasi TikTok dalam kehidupan sosial yang difokuskan kepada interaksi sosial dan memberikan saran kepada konselor terhadap teknik yang tepat diberikan kepada pengguna aplikasi TikTok. Metode penelitian yang dilakukan dengan pendekatan kualitatif  dengan menggunakan studi kasus. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan wawancara dan observasi. Analisis data yang digunakan yaitu melalui pendekatan Miles dan Huberman. Hasil penelitian yang diperoleh bahwa banyak mahasiswa yang terlengah akan interaksinya di dalam lingkungan dan cara mengatasinya hanya dengan menyibukkan diri dengan hal-hal yang positif. Sehingga disarankan kepada konselor untuk menerapkan teknik self management sebagai bentuk intervensi yang  tepat dalam mengatasi kecanduan terhadap aplikasi TikTok.