bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thickened Photoreceptor Outer Segment Layer in Children with Hyperopic Anisometropic Amblyopia
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Yang Fan , Chen Shirong , Shi Tingkun
Published: April 2024

Purpose
To quantitatively investigate the reflectivity and structure of the outer retinal layers in children with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT).
Methods
Seventy-eight patients with amblyopia and 64 age-matched children with normal vision were included in this study. All participants underwent SS-OCT and detailed ophthalmic examinations. Longitudinal reflectance profile measurements (LRP) were measured by Image J. The reflectivity of outer retinal layers was measured at the three selected positions: subfovea, 1 mm nasal to the fovea and 1 mm temporal to the fovea. The reflectivity ratios were calculated by outer retinal layers divided by the nuclear layer (ONL) for normalization. Photoreceptor outer segment layer thickness was also measured. The results were compared between the amblyopia and normal controls. The possible effects of age, sex and axial length on results were adjusted by generalized estimating equations (GEE).
Results
Photoreceptor outer segment layer thickness was significantly greater in amblyopic eyes than in normal control eyes at all three regions (18.41 ± 1.83 vs 16.84 ± 1.39, p < 0.001 at fovea; 14.78 ± 1.34 vs 14.19 ± 1.40, p = 0.030 at 1mm nasal to the foveal; 14.92 ± 1.48 vs 14.41 ± 1.32, p = 0.049 at 1mm temporal to the fovea). The reflectivity ratio of outer segment/ONL was higher only at 1mm nasal to the fovea (2.94 ± 0.61 vs 2.70 ± 0.42, p = 0.02). Subfoveal OS thickness was positively correlated with choroidal thickness (r = 0.248, p = 0.018), but was not correlated with spherical equivalent, age, axial length or LogMAR visual acuity.
Conclusions
Quantitative measurement of SS-OCT images revealed that greater photoreceptor outer segment in both eyes of children with amblyopia than in normal control eyes. A thicker OS thickness is somehow related to amblyopia, and this may be a new useful diagnostic parameter for amblyopia.
Electrochemical detection for Hg 2+ ion based on hydrazine-montmorillonite intercalation compound as potentiometric electrode
Authors: Udomphan Kemawadee , Phongsak Thanawat , Inchomrit Pranitda
Published: April 2024

Hydrazine-montmorillonite (HYD-MMT), intercalation compound was prepared to construct potentiometric electrode for the determination of Hg2+ ion. The results of X-ray diffraction spectrometry (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) mapping techniques revealed that the hydrazine was completely intercalated in the interlayer space of montmorillonite. This intercalation compound (HYD-MMT) was used to construct as potentiometric electrode and compositions were optimized. The composition of the hydrazine-montmorillonite (HYD-MMT) intercalation compound: graphite: epoxy resin of 20:20:60 % wt gave compatible slope with the Nernstian theory for Hg2+ ion. Potentiometric results of electrode provided the slope with 29.431.49 mV decade-1, LOD 5.26x10-6 M within linear concentration range 10-6-0.1 M. The selectivity coefficient was performed by separate solution method and results presented that this electrode provided good selectivity for Hg2+ ion. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to study electron transfer and behavior at the surface of electrodes, the results indicated that hydrazine in montmorillonite structure could help increase electron transfer at the surface electrode during performing Hg2+ ion solution. This electrode was successful to determine Hg2+ ion in real soil sample from rice field.
Prognostic factors in postoperative brain metastases derive from non-small cell lung cancer：a retrospective analysis
Authors: Chen Haibin , Sun Liang , Yang Zhi , Qu Yuanyuan , Tong Nanyang , Sun Caixing , Xia Liang
Published: April 2024

Background: Brain metastases are crucial in cancer progression, requiring focused efforts on the screening, early detection, and treatment. However, accurately forecasting the postoperative prognosis of patients with non-small cell lung cancer brain metastasis remains a challenge. This retrospective study aims to discern the factors that influence the prognosis of such patients.
Patients and materials: A total of 151 cases from Zhejiang Cancer Hospital were collected. Univariate analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier and Log-rank test, while multivariate analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards regression model. Student’s t-test and chi-square test were employed to examine the differences between the long-term survival and the short-term survival groups. Ultimately, a predictive model was constructed by using R 4.2.1.
Results: Univariate analysis identified 12 factors as prognostic factors, showing statistical significance. In multivariate analysis, the primary contributing factors to survival were identified as age, chemotherapy of brain metastases, pathology, surgery of non-small cell lung cancer, targeted drugs, and GPA score. Compared long-term and short-term groups, age, pathology, surgery of lung, targeted therapy, and radiotherapy of brain metastases were statistically differentiating factors. Based on multivariate analysis, we established a clinical predictive model predicting 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates.
Conclusion: Younger age, receiving chemotherapy for brain metastases, adenocarcinoma pathology, lung cancer surgery, targeted therapy, and a high GPA score are associated with longer survival. This model predicts the survival period for patients with non-small cell lung cancer brain metastasis after surgery and helps in selecting more effective treatment plans.
YOLO V8: An improved real-time detection of safety equipment in different lighting scenarios on construction sites
Authors: R Lakshmi Thara , Upadhyay Bhavya , Sankrityayan Ananya
Published: April 2024

In this work we aimed to detect the safety equipment worn by the workers on construction site using the YOLOv8 model. Its a state-of-the-art deep learning model recognized for its speed and accuracy, in detecting objects within dynamic construction environments. Focusing on classes such as Helmet, Vest, Gloves, Human, and Boots, we assess YOLOv8's efficacy in real-time safety hazard detection. The classes have been labelled using the labelImg software for training the model, with that the testing of different images and videos have been carried out. After deploying the trained model, it shows an impressive accuracy rate of approximately 98.017% with the YOLOv8 model, surpassing previous iterations. Additionally, our Recall and Precision values achieve high levels at 94.9% and 94.36% respectively, while the F1 score and mean Average Precision (mAP) values approximate 91% and 91.9% respectively. These robust performance metrics underscore the reliability and effectiveness of YOLOv8 compared to other existing YOLO models, marking a significant advancement in object detection for construction site management.
Variability of protein and gluten content in bread wheat lines with introgressions into chromosome 5B from related species
Authors: Shchukina L. V. , Klykov A. G. , Murugova G. A. , Shamanin V. P. , Pozherukova V. E. , Lepekhov S. B. , Chebatareva M. V. , Petin V. A. , Börner A. , Pshenichnikova T. A.
Published: April 2024

Numerous samples with introgressions were obtained in bread wheat in result of distant hybridization. However, only a small number of them were used for improvement of modern cultivars for such an important traits as protein and gluten content in grain. The aim of this study is to investigate the phenotypic impact of introgressions transferred to 5B chromosome of bread wheat from the species T. durum and Ae. speltoides on these grain quality traits. To this end, two lines that carried introgressions of different size in 5B chromosome were developed on the genetic background of cv. Saratovskaya 29 (S29). One line had the introgression from Aegilops speltoides in the distal region of the long arm of the chromosome, while another line - the introgression from Triticum durum in the centromeric region. Transfer of introgressions from donors to the recipient was confirmed using microsatellite markers. The lines were studied in remote geographical areas and in greenhouse. They showed a significant increase in protein and gluten content across all environments by 1% and 4%, respectively, with the greatest effect under normal moisture conditions. The lines retained high rheological and mixing dough properties characteristic of S29. The conducted studies made it possible to verify loci QGlc.ipk-5B and QDsa.ipk-5B previously identified in ITMI mapping population, associated with gluten content and dough resistance to mixing. It was also possible to confirm the possible association of introgressions into 5B chromosome with a decrease in thousand kernel weight.
Welding Bead Detection and Inspection on Shear Reinforcement with Dual-Anchorage Using Enhanced Mask RCNN
Authors: Mlyahilu John , Lee Jaeeun , Choi Hongseok , Kim Jongnam
Published: April 2024

Welding processes pose significant challenges and risks to both humans and the environment, as well as the machines involved. To mitigate the potential negative impacts of welding, we suggest the development of a four-camera system that can replace human involvement in the assessment and evaluation of welded products. In this research paper, we introduce an algorithm based on Mask-RCNN and Green’s theorem-based classifier, designed to assess the quality of welding beads. For the optimization of our model, we trained the enhanced model on COCO weights using various backbone networks, including VGG16, ResNet101, MobileNet, Inception, and EfficientNet. Our findings revealed that Effi-cientNet reduced computational time compared to the other options. Due to constraints in data availability, we treated the problem as a single-class classification task. We addressed the issue of imbalanced datasets by incorporating a classifier with a decision threshold of 75% to distinguish between correctly and incorrectly welded beads. Furthermore , our proposed algorithm is versatile and adaptable, functioning effectively under different environmental conditions, with various types of cameras, diverse brightness settings, and multiple resolutions. Based on a thorough evaluation using performance metrics and the specified decision threshold, our algorithm achieved impressive results, a mean recall of 100%, precision of 100%, an accuracy of 99.56%, and an Intersection over Union (IoU) score of 98.92%. Additionally, the algorithm is capable of detecting and assessing the quality of welding beads within a mean processing time of 0.55 seconds per image, obtained from 172 frames. Based on these promising results, we recommend the adoption of our proposed algorithm for real-time applications that involve the detection and evaluation of welding bead quality, especially when integrated with the four-camera system we have developed.
JEL Classification: D8 , H51
Screening for lung cancer using thin-slice low-dose computed tomography in a Chinese physical examination population: a population-based real-world study
Authors: Wu Jiaxuan , Li Ruicen , Zhang Huohuo , Zheng qian , Tao Wenjuan , Yang Ming , Zhu Yuan , Ji Guiyi , Li Weimin
Published: April 2024

Objectives
Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors threatening human life and health. At present, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk population to achieve early diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer has become the first choice recommended by many authoritative international medical organizations. Therefore, in order to further optimize the lung cancer screening method, we conducted a real-world study of LDCT lung cancer screening in a large sample of healthy physical examination population, comparing the differences in lung nodules and lung cancer detection between thin and thick-slice LDCT scanning.
Methods
A total of 29,296 subjects who underwent low-dose thick slice CT scan (5mm thickness) from January 2015 to December 2015 and 28,058 subjects underwent low-dose thin-slice CT scan (1mm thickness) from January 2018 to December 2018 in West China Hospital were included. The positive detection rate, detection rate of lung cancer, pathological stage of lung cancer, and mortality rate of lung cancer were analyzed and compared between the two groups.
Results
The positive rate of LDCT screening in thin slice was significantly higher than that in thick slice scan group (20.1% vs 14.4%, P < 0.001). In addition, the lung cancer detection rate in the thin-slice LDCT screening positive group was significantly higher than that in the thick slice scanning group (78.0% vs 52.9%, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
The screening positive rate of low-dose thin-slice CT scan is higher, and more early stage lung cancer (IA1 stage) can be detected in the screen-positive group.
Design of a Three-Factor Authentication and Key Agreement Scheme Using Biometric Approach for Internet of Things
Authors: Saqib Manasha , Moon Ayaz Hassan
Published: April 2024

Sensory data emanating from IoT for mission-critical applications warrants proper authentication and access control for its acceptance and usage. It becomes challenging to develop such efficient solutions to commensurate with the resource constraint nature of devices forming IoT. This paper presents an efficient scheme leveraging 3-factor authentication based upon user’s smart card, password, and a fuzzy commitment. The mutual authentication attained between the key agents like remote user, Gateway node, and IoT device, with low overheads, adds novelty to our proposed scheme. The scheme provides a lightweight dynamic key exchange scheme to maintain forward secrecy and time stamps to thwart replay attacks. Implementation of the scheme using Elliptical curve cryptography over the primary field has kept it lightweight and hardens the scheme leveraging Elliptical Curve Discrete Logarithm Problem (ECDLP). Automated validation using the Scyther tool and Burrows-Abadi-Needham (BAN) logic validates that the scheme is resilient against attacks as claimed in the proposed scheme. The results have been further reinforced by simulation of the scheme over NS3. We evaluate our scheme's performance and compare it with other related schemes in respect of communication, computational and energy costs and find it efficient.
Do fish gut microbiotas vary across spatial scales? A case study of Diplodus vulgaris in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Lilli Ginevra , Sirot Charlotte , Campbell Hayley , Hermand Fanny , Brophy Deirdre , FLOT Jean-François , Graham Conor T. , George Isabelle F.
Published: April 2024

Background
Biogeography has been linked to differences in gut microbiota in several animals. However, the existence of such a relationship in fish is not clear yet. So far, it seems to depend on the fish species studied. However, most studies of fish gut microbiotas are based on single populations. In this study, we investigated the gut microbiota of fish from three wild populations of the two-banded sea bream Diplodus vulgaris(Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1817) to determine whether its diversity, structure and potential functionality reflect the geographic origin of the fish, at large and small geographical scale. Additionally, we explored the host- and environmental- related factors explaining this relationship at a small geographical scale.
Results
We showed that the taxonomy and potential functionality of Diplodus vulgaris differ to varying degrees depending on the spatial scale considered. At large scale, we observe that greater distances between populations correspond to greater differences in the taxonomic structure of the fish microbiota, but not in potential functionality. On the other hand, at small scales, the different composition and diversity of the microbiota differ according to the characteristics of the habitat occupied by the fish. Specifically, we identified the presence of Posidonia oceanicain the benthic habitat as predictor of both the microbiota composition and diversity. Lastly, we reported the enrichment of functions related to the metabolism of xenobiotics (i.e. drugs and 4-aminobenzoate) in a population and we indicate it as a potential target of future monitoring.
Conclusions
With this study, we confirmed the importance of investigating the gut microbiota of wild fish species using multiple populations, taking into account the different habitats occupied by the individuals. Furthermore, we underscored the use of the biodegradation potential of the gut microbiota as an alternative means of monitoring emerging contaminants in Mediterranean fish.
Expression profile of urinary exosomal miRNAs in patients with diabetic kidney disease and their associated with kidney damage
Authors: Li Juan , Han Lulu , Wang Ting , Yang Lin , Zhou Hong
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the primary cause of end-stage renal disease. The aim of study is to seek noninvasive biomarkers for DKD at early stage or a target for the treatment of DKD through analysis of the urinary exosomal miRNAs expression profiles in DKD patients.
Methods
The urinary exosomes were isolated from type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients with DKD confirmed by renal biopsy (DKD-Exo). Treatment of human podocytes and renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) with DKD-Exo to observe the effects of DKD-Exo on podocyte apoptosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of TECs. The urinary exosomal miRNAs expression profiles were detected using miRNA sequencing, and differentially expressed miRNAs were verified by real-time quantitative PCR. Target genes of these miRNAs and relevant pathways in DKD were analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment.
Results
DKD-Exo induced the apoptosis of podocytes and EMT of TECs. A total of 40 differentially downregulated miRNAs were found, 17 of all were named and 23 were newly discovered, some differentially expressed miRNAs in DKD patients were reported for the first time. GO and KEGG pathway analysis suggest that these target genes were related to biological processes, molecular function and cellular component, and involved in 135 pathways.
Conclusion
Our study implies that the urinary DKD-Exo could deliver biological information to podocytes or TECs, which play an important role in pathogenesis of DKD.
Bioactive compounds of the Actinomycetes isolated from Garmsar Saline River, Iran
Authors: Salehghamari Ensieh , Sardabi Maryam , Bahrami Fatemeh , Mobarakeh Ehsan Fallah , Seddighi Aamirreza , Eghtedar Sheirin Panahi , Haghinavand Armin , Jafary Fatemeh , Ghanbari Fatemeh , Alemi Parastoo , Lotfi Mahshid , Rezapour Fatemeh Hallaj , Deez Nima Jafari , Ghasemi Amir , Saeedmoaddab Behzad , Kargar Keiyamars , Etesami Seyed Alireza , Hajiabdolhosseini Nafiseh , Khorashadi Sara , Salehi-Najafabadi Amir
Published: April 2024

Saline environments are unique ecosystems that harbor novel bacterial species with the potential to produce valuable secondary metabolites. In the present study, 26 actinomycetes strains were recovered predominantly from the rhizosphere (81%), in addition to sediments and water samples collected from four sites along the Garmsar Saline River in Iran. According to phylogenetic analysis, the isolated strains were identified as belonging to two different genera: Streptomyces, and Nocardiopsis. Several of the isolated actinomycetes exhibited valuable biotechnological potential, producing a diversity of enzymes including amylase, gelatinase, protease, lipase, lecithinase, and laccase. Inhibitory effects on the growth of human tumor cells were also observed; the extract of strain M15 displayed notable cytotoxicity against MCF7 human breast cancer cells with an IC50 value of 32.81 µg/ml. Also, 59% of the strains had antibacterial activity against some pathogenic and non-pathogenic test strains. Ethyl acetate extracts of the selected actinomycetes were screened, and strain M16 was found to exhibit the most potent inhibitory effect on Proteus mirabilis. GC/MS analysis of M16’s extract revealed it mainly consisted of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-methylpropyl) ester (16.61%), and 9-octadecenamide (12.77%). Based on 16S rRNA sequence analysis, Strain M16 showed the highest similarity to Nocardia aegyptia. The study concludes that actinomycetes from the Garmsar Saline River possess considerable potential for biotechnological application.
Voices on the Edge: Mental Health Status of Unemployed Adults of Working Age during the COVID-19 epidemic- A Retrospective Study Based on Data from the Psychological Assistance Hotline in HCM City
Authors: Wei Yating , Wu Deyuan , Chen Qiuxia , Fu Xiaonv , Song Haidong
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the utilization of psychological hotlines by the unemployed labor force during the COVID-19 epidemic and to explore their mental health status.
METHODS: General demographic data, types of caller problems and other information of unemployed adult labor force callers to the HCM City assistance hotline were collected from 2019 to 2022, and group comparisons were made according to different genders, different age groups, and caller times to understand the mental health status of this group by assessing depressive mood and suicide risk.Taking high-risk calls as outcome variables, multivariate Logistic regression was carried out to explore the related factors affecting the mental health status of this group.
RESULTS: A study of 6,297 cases found that males exhibited higher rates of major depression, suicidal ideation, planning, and behavior compared to females (P < 0.001). The youth group had significantly higher proportions of major depression and suicide risk compared to middle-aged and older individuals (P < 0.001). Calls in the second half of the night were associated with a higher proportion of callers reporting suicidal plans and preparations(P < 0.001). Young callers had an 11.04 times(OR=12.04,95%CI 3.523-41.148,P＜0.001)and senior callers had an 4.039 times (OR=5.039 95%CI 1.476-17.201,P=0.01) higher risk of suicidal behavior compared to middle-aged callers, and men were 1.211 times (OR=2.211 95%CI 1.423-3.435,P < 0.001)more likely to have high-risk calls than women. Gender and age were identified as influential factors for high-risk situations.
CONCLUSION: Unemployed callers who were male, in the youth group, and who called in the second half of the night had relatively poorer mental health and were at higher risk for suicide.
Proteomic analysis of sperm from fertile stallions and subfertile stallions due to impaired acrosomal exocytosis
Authors: Hernández-Avilés Camilo , Ramírez-Agámez Luisa , Weintraub Susan T. , Scoggin Charles F. , Davis Brian W. , Raudsepp Terje , Varner Dickson D. , Love Charles C.
Published: April 2024

Thoroughbred stallions that carry a double-homozygous genotype A/A-A/A for SNPs rs397316122 and rs69101140 in exon 5 of the FKBP6 gene (chr13; EquCab3.0) are uniquely subfertile due to impaired acrosomal exocytosis (IAE). In this study, the sperm proteome in frozen/thawed semen from subfertile Thoroughbred stallions was studied and compared to that of frozen/thawed sperm from fertile Thoroughbred stallions. A total of 2,220 proteins was identified, of which 140 proteins were found to be differentially abundant in sperm from the subfertile stallions when compared to that of fertile stallions (83 less and 57 more abundant). Proteins of differential abundance in sperm from the subfertile stallions were mostly overrepresented in the “metabolism” and the “metabolism of lipids” pathways. One of these proteins, arylsulfatase F (ARSF), was studied by immunofluorescence. A lower proportion of sperm displaying ARSF signal at the acrosome region was observed in sperm from subfertile Thoroughbred stallions. In addition, heterologous zona pellucida binding assays were performed and revealed sperm from subfertile Thoroughbred stallions bound at a lower proportion to zonae pellucidae than sperm from fertile Thoroughbred stallions. In conclusion, a group of proteins of differential abundance, including some of acrosome origin, were identified in sperm from subfertile stallions with acrosome dysfunction.
Unguarded refugees of deep waters: Flood vulnerability analysis of Kosi embankment through the lens of Hydro-geomorphological and Socio-economic parameters through GIS analysis
Authors: Devda Ajay , Verma Vishal , Jain Vikrant
Published: April 2024

The Kosi River basin is one of the most flood-affected regions in India. The first victims of these frequent floods are nearly 8 lakh people stranded between the Kosi river embankments in the Saharsa and Supaul districts of Bihar. These individuals face a trifecta of issues, including regular flooding, scarcity of basic amenities, and loss of livelihood, all of these are exacerbated by climate change impacts. The population living outside, too, had no respite due to frequent embankment breaches and waterlogging due to these structures. The region went through numerous flood-related research based on geomorphology, hydrology, and other physical factors; however, the flood impact assessment of embankments and its role within the socio-economic dimension remains unexplored. The present study unpacks flood vulnerability in 283 villages within the Kosi embankment. The study combines and analyzes thirteen attributes, including eight socio-economic and five hydro-geomorphic parameters, incorporating Sentinel-2, IMD, FMIS, and the 2011 census report and other survey reports. It employs GIS analysis to develop a socio-economic, hydro-geomorphic, and composite vulnerability map based on the weightage assigned to the aforementioned attributes. The analysis highlights that nearly the entire population in the embankment region is susceptible to the effects of flooding, with ∼66% of the region having high and very high flood risk and ∼26% in areas with moderate risk. The study’s outcomes could contribute to directing the effects and exclusion created by flood control infrastructure. They can also help to develop a comprehensive flood adaptation and resilience program for the Kosi River basin.
Utilização de plantas medicinais em oficinas terapêuticas para usuários de Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS): manipulação e uso racional.
Authors: MELO Janaína Gonçalves da Silva , SILVA Renata Virgínia Bezerra da , SILVA Thaysa Thayna Cavaliere , VILARIM Yorrana Luna , CÂNDIDO Vanessa Caroline da Silva , LUNA Rayanne Maria Espíndola Araújo de , FERREIRA Apache Santiago
Published: April 2024

Este relato de experiência visa apresentar as atividades desenvolvidas na extensão curricularizada por estudantes do curso de farmácia da Faculdade Pernambucana de Saúde (FPS) localizada em Recife - Pernambuco, com o objetivo de realizar oficinas terapêuticas para usuários de um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS) utilizando a manipulação com plantas medicinais e enfatizando seu uso racional. Durante as oficinas, os participantes foram orientados a confeccionar seus próprios sachês de chá, xarope e loção hidratante, manipulados com extratos de plantas medicinais. Como resultados, os participantes demonstraram interesse e dedicação às atividades propostas e relataram ter tido uma melhora subjetiva no seu dia, através do ambiente de socialização e fortalecimento da sua autonomia.
Formations effect of brass plate anode on electroplating thickness uniformity: case study on wheelchair headrest
Authors: Nurhadiyanto Didik , Kassyaf Khaerana Mutahara , Mujiyono  , Sasongko Beni Tri , Saputri Virda Hersy Lutviana
Published: April 2024

Uniformity of coating thickness in the electroplating process of cylindrical objects using plate-shaped anodes has become a challenging issue. One electroplating method uses a cylindrical anode. However, this strategy is too expensive and requires a lot of material. This paper determines the effect of brass plate anode formation on the headrest thickness uniformity of the electroplating brass coating on the headrest connector of electric wheelchairs made of St. 37. The research started by making headrest connector using a turning machine, then plating the brass using the electroplating method, and then testing the thickness of the resulting brass for uniformity of data using statistics. The number and placement of the plate anodes varied with 2 symmetrical position anodes, 3 symmetrically spaced anodes, and 4 symmetrically positioned anodes. Coating thickness was measured using a digital microscope with a magnification of 200 times. Before measuring the thickness of the coating, the surface of the joint is milled first to remove any chamfer on the top surface of the body and the cover headrest connector. The surface is smoothed using sandpaper and cleaned using etching. Data from the uniformity test results show the highest level of uniformity in the variation of 4 anodes on the body and the cover of the headrest connector, followed by variations on the 3 anodes on the body and the cover of the headrest connector, and variations of 2 anodes on the body and the cover of the headrest connector. The greater the number of anodes and their placement around the cathode, the higher the thickness uniformity of the resulting brass electroplating layer. The formation of brass plate anode on electroplating affects headrest thickness uniformity
Why Not Us? Experiences of Incarcerated Women on Education Access in Malawi Prisons
Authors: Kajawo Samson C R , Johnson Lineo R
Published: April 2024

Many incarcerated women worldwide have low education profiles that cause them to commit petty criminal offences among others. Thus, education access to incarcerated people, including women can be undoubtedly an indispensable strategy for their rehabilitation. However, education access could still be patriarchal and not accessible to women in prisons. Guided by radical feminist theory, this study employed a qualitative narrative research approach to explore from incarcerated women and correctional officers how education was made accessible at two prison facilities in Malawi. The key finding was that there was social injustice in the provision of education to offenders. Education access was monopolised by male inmates. Women were denied access to education even though they needed and demanded it since authorities preferred to use the available inadequate educational resources to provide education to only male inmates. It was recommended that gender equality needed to be exercised in the provision of education opportunities in prisons. Where resources are scarce, at least similar educational resources should be made equally and equitably accessible to both male and female inmates.
Can quantized fragmentation replace colour reconnection models?
Authors: Todorova-Nová Šárka
Published: April 2024

A brief overview of properties of the model of quantized fragmentation of a helical QCD string is followed by the discussion of colour reconnection models and of the ways to reproduce the evolution of the average transverse momentum in hadronic events, as function of charged particle multiplicity. Reference to recent experimental data is included.
Towards the computation of inclusive decay rates using lattice QCD
Authors: Gambino Paolo , Hashimoto Shoji , Mächler Sandro , Panero Marco , Sanfilippo Francesco , Simula Silvano , Smecca Antonio , Tantalo Nazario
Published: April 2024

We present a non-perturbative computation of inclusive rates of semileptonic decays of heavy mesons from lattice QCD simulations. The calculation is based on the extraction of smeared spectral functions obtained from four-point Euclidean correlation functions computed on configuration ensembles of the JLQCD and ETM collaborations. We compare our results for the inclusive decay rates with analytical predictions from the operator-product expansion, finding a good agreement for the calculation of the inclusive decay rate. This opens the path to the theoretical determination of the magnitude of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element V_{cb}Vcb to a level of precision competitive with the present experimental uncertainty.
Implications of exclusive J/$\psi$ photoproduction in a tamed collinear factorisation approach to NLO
Authors: Flett Chris A. , Martin Alan D. , Ryskin Mikhail (Misha) G. , Teubner Thomas
Published: April 2024

We discuss exclusive J/\psiψ photoproduction, initially in conventional collinear factorisation at NLO and then subsequently in a refined approach with a programme of low x resummation and implementation of a crucial low Q_0Q0 subtraction included. We compare and contrast predictions in both frameworks and remark about the possibility to constrain and ultimately determine the low x and low scale gluon PDF, emphasising the significance of this for future global PDF analyses.
ATLAS results on exotic hadronic resonances
Authors: Xu Yue
Published: April 2024

Recent results from the proton-proton collision data taken by the ATLAS experiment on exotic resonances are presented. A search for J/\psi pJ/ψp resonances in \Lambda_{b}→ J/\psi p KΛb→J/ψpK decays with large p KpK invariant masses is reported. A search for exotic resonances in the four-muon final state is shown.
Investigating the role of individualism/collectivism as underlying motives and status consumption as a behavioral outcome of LOHAS: Focusing on the moderating effect of materialism
Authors: Choi Sooyeon , Feinberg Richard
Published: April 2024

During the recovery from a global pandemic, people around the world remain committed to adopting healthier and more sustainable lifestyles. LOHAS stands for lifestyle of health and sustainability. LOHAS, as a premium lifestyle, is well incorporated into the capitalistic market through exclusive consumption choices. This study uses the means-end-theory of lifestyle to focus on individualism and collectivism as underlying values of LOHAS and status consumption as its behavioral outcome and explores the moderating effect of materialism. To determine the internal motives and behaviors of the targeted population with a LOHAS lifestyle, 204 survey data from general U.S. consumers between the ages of 18 and 65 were collected. The data were analyzed by PLS-3.0. The results indicate the hybrid attribute of the LOHAS lifestyle such that both individualism and collectivism are positively related to LOHAS. This indicates that LOHAS consumers take a holistic approach to their lives by promoting harmony across different life aspects and recognizing an interconnectedness between personal health and well-being and environmental sustainability. LOHAS is positively associated with status consumption, indicating its upscale consumption selections. Finally, materialism positively moderates the relationship between LOHAS and status consumption.
Outcomes of combined treatment of patients with acute lumbodynia
Authors: Barantsevich E. R. , Kamchatnov P. R. , Akhmadeeva L. R.
Published: April 2024

Introduction. Acute dorsalgia is a common reason to seek outpatient medical care in Russia. The clinical picture usually includes muscular-tonic and pain syndromes. The most common form of dorsalgia by localization is acute lumbar pain (lumbodynia).

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of Spascuprel®, Traumeel S in the complex treatment of patients with acute lumbar pain in real-world clinical practice.

Materials and methods. We conducted a non-interventional, prospective, observational study of 110 outpatients aged 26 to 65 years. Patients received a standard on-demand therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In addition, Group 1 received Spascuprel® and Traumeel® C, and Group 2 received centrally acting muscle relaxants. The effectiveness of  treatment was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) of pain intensity and the limitations of various activities in daily living were measured using the Roland – Morris questionnaire. Consideration was given to the exacerbation duration, the need for additional intake of NSAIDs, and the number of cases of pain exacerbation within 60 days from the start of participation in the observational study.

Results. Under treatment, pain intensity showed statistically significant decreases in VAS scores (from 61.0 to 35.5 scores out of 100 according to VAS by Day 7 and to 19.5 scores by Day 14 of treatment in Group 1, from 61.2 to 41.1 and to 25.8 scores in Group 2, respectively (p < 0.05)). A more rapid decrease was observed in VAS pain intensity score from baseline in Group 1. Over 2-month observation period, group 1 had less exacerbations (p < 0.05) and fewer cases of need for additional intake of NSAIDs (p < 0.05). The frequency and severity of adverse events did not differ between two groups.

Conclusion. A more rapid decrease in VAS pain intensity scores and reduction in the need for NSAIDs were noted in the group of patients with acute dorsalgia who used Traumeel® C and Spascuprel® in addition to standard NSAID therapy.
Impact of cumulus parameterization schemes on summer extreme precipitation simulation in the Yellow River Basin: the 2018 case
Authors: Chen Shihao , Lv Xing , Men Baohui
Published: April 2024

This study uses the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with five different cumulus parameterization schemes (CPSs) at a resolution of 30 km to simulate the summer (June, July, and August) extreme precipitation event in the Yellow River Basin (YRB) during 2018. The goal of this study is to investigate the sensitivity of extreme precipitation simulation in the YRB during the summer of 2018 to CPSs in the WRF model. The results show that all five CPSs were capable of approximately simulating the direction of the rain bands in the YRB during the summer of 2018, but the simulation results of all CPSs tended to overestimate the value of precipitation amount. Upon further evaluation using seven different methods, it was found that the Betts–Miller–Janjic scheme provided the best simulation of this event. The complex orography of the YRB has a significant influence on moisture transport. The WRF model may have overestimated the moisture flux, which could have contributed to the overestimation of precipitation. The summer extreme precipitation event in the YRB during 2018 may have been influenced by an influx of excessive moisture from the western boundary.
Experimental investigation on a new method for modifying the geometry of a vertical drop edge equipped with a screen on the amount of energy dissipation
Authors: Daneshfaraz Rasoul , Norouzi Reza , Abar Maryam
Published: April 2024

The aim of the current research is to investigate the effect of geometry and different angles (180°, 150°, 120° and 90°) of the edge of a vertical drop with a height of 0.15 m with and without a vertical screen on energy dissipation. The finding showed that the triangulation plane forms a vertical drop at different angles of 180°, 150°, 120° and 90° without a screen that increases the energy dissipation of the drop, which is highest at an angle of 90°, by 50.5%. In the vertical drop with a screen, reducing the angle also leads to a decrease in energy dissipation, so the highest energy dissipation occurs at an angle of 180° with a 45.2% increase in energy dissipation compared to the vertical drop without a screen. The relative depth of the edge and the relative depth of the vertical drop pool of the triangular plane are different at the angle vertex and its wings, in such a way that the relative depth of the edge at the vertex is less than the wings and the relative depth of the pool at the vertex is greater than the wings.
DESMONETIZA! SLEEPING GIANTS BRASIL NO INSTAGRAM E O CONSUMO COMO ARENA POLÍTICA E MORAL
Authors: Freitas Eliane Tania
Published: April 2024

Este artigo apresenta o conceito de consumerismo, caracterizando-o como um tipo de ativismo cívico no campo do consumo, para depois situar em relação a ele a atuação do movimento Sleeping Giants Brasil. Farei isso por meio da análise de dados relativos ao seu repertório de ações táticas na plataforma digital Instagram, cujo objetivo é a desmonetização de sites e canais disseminadores de conteúdos virulentos como discurso de ódio contra minorias e notícias falsas. Abordo o perfil como um sujeito sociotécnico, capaz de agenciar ações no espaço digital cujo alcance e consequências o ultrapassam. Destaco ainda algumas especificidades do Instagram como vitrine virtual na qual a visualidade, neste caso instrumentalizada para finalidades do ativismo, é hegemônica. Por fim, articulo o consumerismo com os aspectos intrinsecamente problemáticos da economia algorítmica das plataformas. Concluo que, a despeito de limitações, como o foco sobre os sites propagadores de conteúdos virulentos mais do que nas Big Techs e suas plataformas, a atuação do SGBR termina por reforçar pautas em torno das quais se aglutinam forças sociais, lançando mão das singularidades da ecologia digital, como hashtags e arrobas, para alcançar resultados que a ultrapassam. A exposição das empresas que anunciam em sites virulentos e das que vendem tais espaços, as Big Techs, transforma em escândalo moral a lucratividade da exploração do ódio, do sensacionalismo e da desinformação.
Palavras-chave: Sleeping Giants Brasil; Instagram; Consumerismo; Desinformação; Discurso de ódio.
Trajetórias de vida de docentes negras da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG, Brasil
Authors: Silva Júnior Astrogildo Fernandes da , Silva Kelly Cristina Caetano
Published: April 2024

Esse artigo tem como objetivo refletir sobre aspectos das histórias de vida de professoras negras que atuam nos Cursos de Formação de Professores na Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU). Recorreu, como metodologia, a uma abordagem qualitativa, pois, permite aos pesquisadores(as) estabelecer uma linguagem para expressar suas descobertas sobre determinados fenômenos e processos. Foram entrevistadas sete professoras. Na realização da pesquisa, buscou-se produzir uma investigação centrada na construção da história de vida e profissional cotidiana das docentes mulheres entrevistadas. É um trabalho para performar a subjetividade, para reconhecer mulheres negras, particularmente docentes negras, como protagonistas. As narrativas revelaram as adversidades e preconceitos que as professoras, protagonistas da pesquisa, experienciaram durante a trajetória da vida escolar e/ou acadêmica. Explicitaram o racismo cotidiano vivenciado desde a infância que perpassa a vida escolar e profissional.
The Effects of Curcumin Plus Piperine Co-administration on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Hosseini Hossein , Ghavidel Farideh , Rajabian Arezoo , Homayouni-Tabrizi Masoud , Majeed Muhammed , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: April 2024

Background:

The beneficial effects of curcumin against various chronic disorders
have been shown in the last few decades. However, due to its low bioavailability,
therapeutic effects are less than expected. Piperine has been used in scientific evaluations
as an effective compound to increase the bioavailability of curcumin. The present
review investigated the impact of curcumin plus piperine intake on oxidative stress and
inflammatory markers of Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs).

Methods:

Using relevant keywords, we searched Cochrane Library, Scopus, PubMed,
and Web of Science between January 1st, 1970, and September 30th, 2022. A comprehensive
search for RCTs was performed. Continuous data were pooled by Standard Mean
Difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval. All related statistical analyses were performed
using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software.

Results:

A total of 13 articles were incorporated into the final meta-analysis. According
to the current meta-analysis, curcumin plus piperine administration showed a significantly
increased SOD activity and GSH levels while significantly decreased MDA concentrations.
In addition, our study revealed that curcumin plus piperine significantly decreased
TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations.

Conclusion:

These results indicated that curcumin plus piperine administration could effectively
reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Zamzam Water Mitigates Cardiac Toxicity Risk through Modulation of GUT
Microbiota and the Renin-angiotensin System
Authors: Sheikh Ryan Adnan , Nadem Mohammad Shahid , Asar Turky Omar , Almujtaba Mohammed A. , Naqvi Salma , Al-Abbasi Fahad A. , Almalki Naif Abdullah R. , Kumar Vikas , Anwar Firoz
Published: April 2024

Background:

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to exert a substantial global influence in
specific areas due to population growth, aging, microbiota, and genetic/environmental factors. Drinking water
has a strong impact on the health of an individual. Further, emerging evidence has highlighted the therapeutic
potential and benefits of Zamzam water (Zam).

Objective:

We investigated the influence of Zam on doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity, elucidating its consequential
effects on GUT microbiota dysbiosis and hepatic and renal functions.

Methods:

Male rats were categorized into four groups: Group 1 as Normal control (NC), Group 2 as Zamzam
control (ZC), Group 3 Disease control (DC) and Group 4 as Therapeutic control (DZ) treated with Zam
against doxorubicin-induced disease at a dose of 1mg/kg boy weight) intraperitoneally (i.p).

Results:

Significant dysbiosis in the composition of GM was observed in the DC group along with a significant
decrease (p < 0.05) in serum levels of Zinc, interleukin-10 (IL-10), IL-6 and Angiotensin II (Ang II),
while C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, and CKMB increased significantly (restoration of Zinc ions (0.72
± 0.07 mcg/mL) compared to NC. Treatment with Zamzam exhibited a marked abundance of 18-times to 72%
in Romboutsia, a genus of firmicutes, along with lowering of Proteobacteria in DZ followed by significant
restoration of Zinc ions (0.72 ± 0.07 mcg/mL), significant (p ˂ 0.05) reduction in CRP (7.22 ± 0.39 mg/dL),
CKMB (118.8 ± 1.02 U/L) and Fibrinogen (3.18 ± 0.16 mg/dL), significant (p < 0.05) increase in IL-10 (7.22
± 0.84 pg/mL) and IL-6 (7.18 ± 0.40 pg/ml), restoration of Ang II (18.62 ± 0.50 nmol/mL/min), marked increase
in renin with normal myocyte architecture and tissue orientation of kidney, and restoration of histological
architecture of hepatocyte.

Conclusion:

Zam treatment mitigated cardiac toxicity risk through the modulation of GUT microbiota and the
renin-angiotensin system and tissue histology effectively.
Protective Effects of Curcumin and Nanomicelle Curcumin on Chlorpyrifos-induced Oxidative Damage and Inflammation in the Uterus, Ovary and Brain of Rats
Authors: Nazarian Maryam , Aramjoo Hamed , Roshanravan Babak , Samarghandian Saeed , Farkhondeh Tahereh
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims:

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), which is classified as an Organophosphorus
Pesticide (OP), has been identified as a toxic agent for the reproductive system due to its capacity
to induce oxidative stress and inflammation. Curcumin (CUR) has been reported as a natural
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that could combat toxicity in various tissues. This
study aims to examine the protective effects of CUR and its nanoformulation against reproductive
impairment induced by CPF.

Methods:

Forty-eight female Wistar albino rats were randomly allocated to six groups (n=8):
control (0.5 mL of corn oil, the solvent for CPF), CPF (10 mg/kg), CPF + CUR 100 mg/kg/day,
CPF + CUR 300 mg/kg/day, CPF + nano-micelle curcumin (NMC) 2.5 mg/kg/day, and CPF +
NMC 5 mg/kg/day. The experimental treatment was performed for 30 days. Then, brain, ovary
and uterus tissues were collected for measuring oxidative stress and inflammatory indices.

Results:

MDA, NO, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations significantly increased in the brain, ovary
and uterus of the CPF group versus the control group (p < 0.001). The levels of GSH and SOD in
the uterus, ovaries, and brain exhibited a significant decrease in the CPF group compared to the
control group (p < 0.05). However, CUR (300 mg/kg) and NMC (5 mg/kg) significantly decreased
MDA, NO, TNF-α, and Il-6 and increased SOD and GSH levels in the uterus, ovaries and
brain of the CPF-exposed animals versus the CPF-exposed non-treated animals (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Our findings indicated that CUR and NMC could be effective in alleviating CPFinduced
reproductive toxicity.