bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Laser Sintering Powder Bed Model: Analysis of the Effects of Laser Power and Scanning Speed on the Sintering Pool
Authors: Yu Yueqiang , Shen Shaorui , Gao Sheng , Jiang Ting , Qin Tao , Chen Junyuan
Published: August 2024

By combining numerical simulation and experimental testing, the powder bed model was imported into the discrete element software Flow-3D as the initial model to analyze the melting, flow, and solidification processes of powder particles. The study examined the effects of different laser powers, scanning speeds, and energy densities on single-track sintering paths and temperature fields. It described the characteristics of stable, metastable, and unstable sintering pools and discussed the impact of different laser power levels and various parameter combinations at the same energy density on the width and depth of the sintering pool.. It was found that when the laser power is 10W and the scanning speed increases from 1400mm/s to 2200mm/s, the sintering path morphology deteriorates from a stable to a semi-molten state. At a scanning speed of 2000mm/s, as the laser power increases from 8W to 14W, the width and depth of the sintering pool increase. When the laser energy density is constant at 10J/m, there are significant differences in the sintering path formation under different laser power and scanning speed combinations, with the width of the sintering pool increasing as the laser power and scanning speed increase.
Performance Analysis of IRS-Assist Dual-hop Wireless Communication System
Authors: Jana Moumita , Kumar Sanjay
Published: August 2024

The IRS-assist or smart radio environment technique is a widely developing technology that network providers can use to establish sustained connectivity between end-user terminals and central data units for the next-generation wireless standards. This article introduced a simple and more accurate link-switching technique for dual-hop communication: a single link-switching threshold (SLST) algorithm to provide an uninterrupted linkage between the transceiver terminals. Depending on the severity of the communicating channel under a dual-hop system, links can do auto switches between themselves and furnish continuous connectivity between end-user terminals. Due to a discrete number of phase shifts of the IRS elements, phase and quantization errors are induced in the channel; the proposed system can also optimize the phase and quantization errors. Besides, this work investigates improving the physical layer performance of the dual-hop wireless communication system under the combined effect of phase shift and quantization error with the introduction of the SLST method. For this particular, three performance metrics have been encountered: the outage probability (OP), average bit error rate (ABER), and average capacity (bits/sec/Hz). A new, more accurate mathematical framework using the Meijer’G function has been constructed to evaluate worthwhile analytical derivation. Under analytical calculation, we have assumed the primary link experienced with common Rayleigh fading and the IRS-assist link (IAL) experienced with Nakagami-m distribution due to a large number of reflecting elements in the system. The proposed dualhop system furnishes noteworthy benefits for each performance metric rather than individual links. Moreover, the suitable selection of quantization level and a number of reflecting elements confirm the exhibition of satisfactory outcomes and minimize the channel hardness of the system. Additionally, numerical simulation results from MATLAB, using Monte Carlo simulation, have been added to validate the analytical outcomes for every performance measure.
Research on recognition and localization method of maize weeding robot based on improved YOLOv5
Authors: Zhao Lijun , Jia Yunfan , Yin Wenke , Li Zihuan , Liu Chuandong , Luo Hang , Hu Xin , Huang Hua , Li Qiang , Lv Cheng , Li Bin
Published: August 2024

In response to the challenge posed by low recognition accuracy in rugged terrains with diverse topography as well as feature recognition agricultural settings. This paper presents an optimized version of the YOLOv5 algorithm alongside the development of a specialized laser weeding experimental platform designed for precise identification of corn seedlings and weeds. The enhanced YOLOv5 algorithm integrates the effective channel attention (CBAM) mechanism while incorporating the DeepSort tracking algorithm to reduce parameter count for seamless mobile deployment. Ablation test validate our model's achievement of 96.2% accuracy along with superior mAP values compared to standard YOLOv5 by margins of 3.1% and 0.7%, respectively. Additionally, three distinct datasets capturing varied scenarios were curated; their amalgamation resulted in an impressive recognition rate reaching up to 96.13%. Through comparative assessments against YOLOv8, our model demonstrates lightweight performance improvements including a notable enhancement of 2.1% in recognition rate coupled with a marginal increase of 0.2% in mAP value, thus ensuring heightened precisionand robustness during dynamic object detection within intricate backgrounds.
Integrating LoD-Based 3D Modeling of Locally Characterized Residential Buildings in Indian Cities: A Framework Utilizing Customized CityGML
Authors: Katwala Sweata , Vyas Anjana
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the application of 3D modelling to represent urban features in Indian cities, highlighting its potential in improving spatial understanding and data precision. With a focus on residential buildings, the research develops a robust framework for creating 3D models of varying levels of detail (LoDs) using CityGML as a standardized format. Utilizing tools such as ArcGIS Pro, Sketch Up, and FME, a LoD 3 model is successfully generated for a specific area, achieving a notable 91% accuracy upon validation. Practical applications are demonstrated through the evaluation of solar and rainwater harvesting potential within the modelled area, illustrating 3D models’ efficacy of in analysing real-world scenarios. This initial success suggests broader applications across entire cities d diverse building typologies, offering significant insights for urban planning and resource management in the Indian context.
Does Intellectual Humility Leadership Lead to a Win-Win? ---- The impact of leadership style on Thriving at Work and Work Performance of the New Generation Employees
Authors: Niu Aiwen , Gao Changchun
Published: August 2024

As the career maturity and self-awareness of new generation employees increase, they seek not only material rewards but also well-being and meaning in their work. Based on the SOR (Stimulus-Organism-Response) theory, this study takes intellectual humility leadership as the breakthrough point and positive work attitude as the mediating path to construct a model of antecedents for the thriving at work and work performance of new generation employees. To this end, this study adopts a questionnaire survey method to carry out empirical work. By collecting 518 valid questionnaires, an SEM model is established to examine the mechanisms and boundary conditions of the impact of intellectual humility leadership.The study finds that: Firstyly, Intellectual humility leadership can enhance the thriving at work and work performance of new generation employees by fostering a positive work attitude; Secondly, Employee core self-evaluation moderates the relationship between intellectual humility leadership and both positive work attitude and work performance. However, with respect to thriving at work, the moderating effect of employee core self-evaluation on intellectual humility leadership is not significant.This study provides empirical support for a deeper understanding of the impact mechanism of leadership on the thriving at work and work performance of new generation employees. It also offers practical management insights for building a positive, healthy, and efficient work culture, thereby enhancing the overall competitiveness of the organization.
A winter cold nights pattern in the Northern Hemisphere lands: Circum−hemisphere teleconnection of extreme cold events
Authors: Wang Ning , Li Jianping , Wang Hao , Li Hao , Wu Zixiang , Zhao Hongyuan
Published: August 2024

This study discovers a teleconnection of winter cold nights (TN10p) in the Northern Hemisphere lands, termed as the Circum–hemisphere teleconnection (CHT) of extreme cold events (CHTe). The CHTe exhibits five distinct centers of action situated in the Southeastern North America, Baffin Bay Coast, Northern Europe, Middle East–North Africa, and Eastern Siberia. Notably, it displays significant interannual (~3a) and decadal (~10a) variabilities. Besides, the differences between the CHTe and several known atmospheric and oceanic modes are also illustrated in terms of the occurrence year, physical nature, temporal variability, and spatial structure. Meanwhile, a new atmospheric teleconnection pattern in the troposphere, named as the CHT, corresponds to the atmospheric circulation associated with the CHTe. During the positive CHTe events, the positive CHT events occur, resulting in significant positive geopotential height anomalies (GHTa) over the Central North Atlantic, Western Europe and Songhua River as well as significant negative GHTa over Greenland and Caspian Sea, and vice versa. Compared with the horizontal advections, vertical convections and diabatic heating, the CHT may mainly influence the local TN10p anomalies by modulating atmospheric thickness anomalies over five regions of the CHTe.
Mechanisms of increasing multidrug resistance in Staphylococcus hominis isolated from clinical materials
Authors: Szemraj Magdalena , Glajzner Paulina , Olszowiec Kamila , Sienkiewicz Monika
Published: August 2024

The treatment of infections caused by Staphylococcus hominis remains a challenge, mainly due to the increasing resistance of these bacteria to antibiotics. The aim of the study was to determine antibiotic resistance in 62 strains S. hominis isolated from clinical materials, and to identify the molecular basis of resistance to antibiotics. Forty-six strains were both methicillin-resistant and harbored the mecA gene. Twenty-three of these strains had mec complex A and ccr complex AB1. Such a combination of the mec and ccr complexes does not correspond to any cassettes that have been demonstrated so far. However, over 80% of the tested strains were multidrug-resistant, of which as many as 12 were resistant to at least seven antibiotics. More than a half of strains harbored the tetK, acc(6’)-Ie aph(2”), and ant(4’)-I genes. erm(C) was the most common resistant gene to antibiotics from the MLS group. Two strains had as many as five antibiotic resistance genes from the tested groups (erm(C), msr(A), msr(B), mph(C), lnu(A)). The presence of the vga gene encoding resistance to streptogramins A was detected in one strain. All of strains were sensitive to vancomycin. However, 11 of them had reduced sensitivity to this antibiotic and eight of them were characterized by a heterogeneous resistance profile to this antibiotic. Our results clearly shows increasing threat of S. hominis caused by their multi-resistance. Moreover, these bacteria can constitute a reservoir of resistance genes for more pathogenic bacteria.
Yield estimation of pomegranate based on deep learning YOLO model
Authors: wang haiying , peng xi , huoyan zhou
Published: August 2024

Pomegranates from Mengzi City, Yunnan Province, are renowned for their nutritional value and flavor, boosting the local economy. Traditional yield prediction relies on manual sampling, which is costly and inefficient. This study proposes an intelligent prediction method using the YOLOv5 deep learning model.Mobile phones captured images of pomegranate trees from four directions to construct a dataset. These images were cropped and labeled for training the YOLOv5 model. The model achieved an 89% recognition accuracy and a 0.94 effectiveness score, accurately identifying and counting pomegranate fruits.Data visualization and model inference estimated the fruit quantity, with predicted values being 91.7% of the actual yield at a confidence level above 0.25. The average yield per tree was estimated at 103.1 kg, closely matching the actual 105.9 kg. This method offers robust data support for rapid and accurate yield estimation, outperforming traditional methods in efficiency and accuracy.
Multi-scale attention encoding-dynamic decoding network for short-term precipitation forecasting
Authors: Du Xianjun , Guo Hangfei
Published: August 2024

Short-term precipitation forecasting is a critical task in the fields of meteorology and hydrology. To overcome the limitations of traditional forecasting methods in handling complex meteorological phenomena and the issue of cumulative errors in image sequence prediction by recurrent neural networks, a short-term precipitation forecasting method called multi-scale attention encoding-dynamic decoding network (MAEDDN) has been developed. It predicts future precipitation by learning the spatiotemporal features of the input data. Within the encoding process, convolutional blocks with spatial and channel attention are utilized for encoding, and a multi-scale fusion module is employed to address the challenge of capturing both small-scale and large-scale information in precipitation distribution simultaneously. In the short-term precipitation processes to address the generation and dissipation. In the decoding process, a dynamic decoding network is proposed to flexibly select the decoding process based on the learned intensity distribution and change trends from the past input data Experiments are conducted by using the precipitation data from the open-source SEVIR dataset, and comparisons are made with the best methods reported so far. The experimental results reveal that: (1) MAEDDN enhances the forecasting capability in areas with high-intensity precipitation, and (2) MAEDDN outperforms other models in terms of the resolution of predicted image sequences. The constructed multi-scale attention encoding captures the complex relationships in meteorological data more effectively, while the dynamic decoding adapts the decoding process based on different scenarios, resulting in more accurate prediction outcomes.
Apoptotic body based biomimetic hybrid nanovesicles to attenuate cytokine storms for sepsis treatment
Authors: Lan Hongbing , Zhou Zhanhao , Hu Qian , Xie Qi , Li Xiaonan , Tian Tianyi , Wang Yi , Yang Conglian , Kong Li , Fu Dehao , Guo Yuanyuan , Zhang Zhiping
Published: August 2024

Sepsis is a severe immune response to pathogens that causes high mortality with limited treatment options. It is characterized by the hyperactivation of macrophages and cytokine storms. Given the anti-inflammatory properties of M2 macrophages derived apoptotic bodies (AB) and their specific uptake by macrophages, a novel approach is employed to combine AB with artificial liposomes to create apoptotic body based biomimetic hybrid nanovesicles (L-AB). The L-AB effectively inherit "eat me" signaling molecules on the surface of the AB, facilitating their targeted uptake by macrophages in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Utilizing this mechanism for the delivery of dexamethasone demonstrates efficient distribution of the drug to inflammatory tissues in septic mice, where it is selectively internalized by macrophages, thereby mitigating excessive macrophage activation and tissue damage, and ultimately increasing the survival rate of septic mice. Taken together, the apoptotic body biomimetic nanovesicles represent a potentially drug delivery system capable of specifically targeting macrophages for the treatment of sepsis.
Exploration of oxidative stress-related hub genes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by integrating bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Huang Jizhen , Su Li , Wu Dandan , Yuan Mengqin
Published: August 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) characterized by a poor prognosis is a chronic and fatal interstitial lung disease. Oxidative stress has great impacts on the initiation and development of IPF. The aim of the present study was to determine oxidative stress-related hub genes for the diagnosis and intervention of IPF. The gene expression profile of IPF (GSE10667, GSE32537, GSE110147, and GSE213001 datasets) were collected from the GEO database. The differentially expressed oxidative stress-related genes (DEOSRGs) were screened on the basis of the common DEGs, oxidative stress related genes from GeneCard database and module genes from WGCNA. Four hub DEOSRGs (ENC1, EPHA3, FMO1, and GPX8) were further identified using the LASSO analysis and SVM-RFE algorithms, and validated by external datasets (GSE24206 and GSE53845). The ROC analysis revealed that the four hub DEOSRGs had diagnostic values with excellent specificity and sensitivity. The CIBERSORT analysis revealed that T cells CD4 memory activated, T cells regulatory (Tregs) and Dendritic cells resting might be related to the progress of IPF. In conclusion, the present study shows that ENC1, EPHA3, FMO1, and GPX8 may be considered as novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for IPF.
Estimation of groundwater recharge using different methods, supported by radon measurement and lineament density analysis: Southern sections of the western Afar rift margin and associated rift floor
Authors: Gidafie Dereje , Nedaw Dessie , Azagegn Tilahun , Abebe Bekele , BABA Alper
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to quantify the spatial and temporal groundwater recharge of the southern sections of the western Afar rift margin and the associated rift floor. Several methods were used, including water balance, WetSpass, Chloride mass balance (CMB) and baseflow separation, supported by radon measurements and lineament density analysis. The first three methods result in mean annual groundwater recharge rates of 114.39 mm/year, 100.88 mm/year and 92.37 mm/year, respectively. The base flow separation approach conducted at the rift margin, particularly at the outlets of the marginal grabens gives a higher recharge rate (136.7 mm/year) than the other methods, suggesting that additional groundwater may be flowing from the adjacent plateau, while the rift floor has a lower value (17.86 mm/year) due to various geological and structural features. The recharge value of the CMB approach is lower, indicating that the groundwater has a higher chloride concentration than from precipitation alone. The spatial distribution of groundwater recharge from the WetSpass model shows that the rift margin has higher groundwater recharge due to moderate to high annual precipitation. The geology consists of alluvial deposits of sand and gravel underlain by highly fractured basalt and ignimbrite as well as transverse structures with SW-NE, NW-SE and W-E orientations. The low annual rainfall and the lacustrine deposits, on the other hand, lead to low groundwater recharge in the rift floor. However, the presence of NE-SW and W-E trending transverse structures connecting the marginal grabens and the rift floor promotes groundwater flow from the former to the latter, resulting in moderate to high groundwater recharge at the rift floor. The results of this study highlight the need to use different groundwater recharge estimation techniques to understand and capture potential recharge mechanisms and obtain an acceptable estimate of recharge, especially in regions with arid to semi-arid climates and active tectonic areas such as the western rift margin and associated Afar rift floor.
A 13.06 Ma widespread ignimbrite in the Pannonian Basin captured a snapshot of abrupt paleogeographic changes in Central Paratethys
Authors: Karátson Dávid , Lahitte Pierre , Portnyagin Maxim , Palotai Márton , Józsa Sándor , Márton Emő , Tóth Emőke , Erdei Boglárka , Nomade Sebastien , Nemeth Karoly , Iván Levente , Krasznai Márton , Vörös Fanni , Biró Tamás , Paquette Jean-Louis , Hír János , Prakfalvi Péter , Kiss János , Pécskay Zoltán , Hencz Mátyás
Published: August 2024

Voluminous Miocene silicic volcanism sourced mainly from the extensional Pannonian Basin played a major role in the evolution of Central Paratethys. Here, we identify a widely distributed (> 3150 km 2 ) member of the Upper Rhyolite Tuff, called the Dobi Ignimbrite, with a precise sanidine/plagioclase 40Ar/39Ar age of 13.064 ± 0.065 Ma (~ Badenian/Sarmatian boundary in Central Paratethys chronology) and distinctive glass geochemistry. Its calculated minimum volume (~ 200 km3) implies a VEI ≥ 7 eruption. The ignimbrite was emplaced on land, as it contains leaves and tree trunks in the basal layer—that we correlate with the Badenian/Sarmatian ‘volcanic floras’ of Hungary—, while the strongly phreatomagmatic character and free-floating foraminifer content in the ignimbrite suggest a marine environment at the source vent. These finds show a rapid environmental change from a long Mid-Miocene terrestrial period in the northern Pannonian Basin to a late Badenian marine incursion.
Temperature Induces Brain-intake Shift of Recombinant High-density Lipoprotein after Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Huang Jialin , Peng Yidong , Wang Xin , Gu Xiaokun , Yi Yao , Wang Wenye , He Zhenghui , Ma Zixuan , Feng Qiyuan , Qi Wenlan , Hui Jiyuan , Gong Ru , Weng Weiji , Jiang Gan , Li Jin , Jiang Jiyao , Feng Junfeng
Published: August 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the leading public health concerns in the world. Therapeutic hypothermia is routinely used in severe TBI, and pathophysiological hyperthermia, frequently observed in TBI patients, has an unclear impact on drug transport in the injured brain due to a lack of study on its effects. We investigated the effect of post-traumatic therapeutic hypothermia at 33oC and pathophysiological hyperthermia at 39oC on brain transport and cell uptake of neuroprotectants after TBI. Recombinant high-density lipoprotein (rHDL), which possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activity, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, was chosen as the model drug. First, we found that mild hypothermia and hyperthermia impaired rHDL transport to the brain and lesion targeting in controlled cortical impact mice. Second, we investigated the temperature-induced rHDL uptake shift by various brain cell types. Mild hypothermia impeded the uptake of rHDL by endothelial cells, neurons, microglia, and astrocytes. Hyperthermia impeded the uptake of rHDL by endothelial cells and neurons while promoting its uptake by microglia and astrocytes. In an attempt to understand the mechanisms behind the above phenomena, it was found that temperature induced brain-intake shift of rHDL through the regulation of LDLR and LRP1 stability in brain cells. We therefore reported the full view of the temperature-induced brain-intake shift of rHDL after TBI for the first time. It would be of help in coordinating pharmacotherapy with temperature management in individualization and precision medicine.
Effects of Peanut Meal Enzymatic Optimization Process and its Products Replacing some Nitrogen Fertilizers on Potato Growth and Soil Environment
Authors: Qiu Zhihuang , Zhang Xinyi , Wen Binhai , Mao Yujie , Feng Zihui , He Danyi , Huang Kexin , Deng Lansheng
Published: August 2024

Background:
*Peanut meal is rich in proteins and minerals, and is commonly used in traditional agriculture for direct return to the field or compost fermentation and then applied. However, compost fermentation not only takes a long time and the products are unstable, but also tends to attract pathogens. Soil application of organic fertilizer is an effective method to maintain high crop yield and sustainable soil fertility. In this study, a 4-factor, 3-level Box-Behnken Design test was designed to optimize the process of alkaline protease hydrolysis of peanut meal, and used to prepare the enzymatic solution, and compared with the fermentation solution fermented by the traditional process, to evaluate the effects of both on potato growth and soil environment by replacing 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% nitrogenous fertilizer under field conditions.
Results:
The Box-Behnken Design test showed that the optimum reaction conditions for alkaline protease hydrolysis of peanut meal were: reaction time of 4 h, initial reaction pH 9.0, reaction temperature of 55 ℃, and enzyme addition of 800 U·kg− 1. The total nitrogen content of peanut meal after enzymatic hydrolysis was 5.10 g·kg− 1, which was much higher than that of the peanut meal fermentation broth obtained from traditional fermentation (N 1.80 g·kg− 1). The field experiment showed that the enzyme solution replacing 10% nitrogen fertilizer had the greatest increase in potato yield, which was 26.63% and 12.22% higher than that of the control group and the fermentation solution treatment group, respectively; in addition, the enzyme solution replacing nitrogen fertilizer could increase the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and dry matter content of potato tuber, and at the same time, it could effectively improve the physical and chemical properties of the soil, increase the diversity of the soil bacterial species in the rhizosphere, and change the structure of the bacterial community.
Conclusions:
The above results show that alkaline protease hydrolysis of peanut meal can greatly shorten the hydrolysis time of peanut meal and increase the nutrient content of the hydrolysate, which promotes the efficient use of peanut meal resources. The use of enzymatic hydrolysis solution to replace part of nitrogen fertilizer can not only reduce the use of chemical fertilizer, but also improve potato yield and quality, and improve the soil environment.
Financing Road Projects and Its Impact on Off-Farm Work
Authors: Bao Ligao , Kusadokoro Motoi , Chitose Atsushi
Published: August 2024

Since 2003, China has revamped its rural road construction policy, transitioning from "workers self-organised construction (Min Gong Jian Qin)" to a "one project, one discussion (Yi Shi Yi Yi)" approach and significantly increasing government investment. This study evaluates the impact of various financing sources—externally funded, self-financed, and mix financed—on rural off-farm income and migration intentions using the Chinese Household Income Project survey data, employing difference-in-differences and propensity score matching methodologies to analyze the socioeconomic impacts of rural road projects financed through different sources on off-farm work income and migration intentions of the rural Chinese population. Findings reveal that externally funded road projects significantly enhance off-farm income and encourage migration intentions for work. Conversely, self-financed projects that rely on local villagers' contributions and voluntary labor, show no positive impact on off-farm income and unexpectedly reduce migration intentions. Importantly, projects with mixed financing models were found to have no significant impact on either off-farm income or migration patterns, highlighting challenges in the coordination and efficacy of these hybrid financing strategies. These findings underscore the importance of continued investment in rural transport infrastructure, with an emphasis on poverty reduction and rural out-migration through diverse financing models for road construction. This research provides insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance rural infrastructure and development through informed transport policy initiatives.
JEL codes: O18, J61, R42
Biodegradation of p-chloroaniline by fungus Isaria fumosorosea SP535
Authors: Huang Shicong , Gao Jiahui , Zhou Lin , Gao Liujian , Song Mengke , Zeng Qiaoyun
Published: August 2024

Efficient methods to remediate PCA (p-chloroaniline) polluted environment are urgent due to the widespread, persistence and toxic of PCA in the environment. Biodegradation facilitated by microbes presents a promising approach for remediating PCA pollution. However, the PCA-degrading fungi still yet to be explored. This study confirmed the highly PCA degrading efficiency of an isolated fungus, Isaria fumosorosea SP535. This fungus can achieve a PCA degradation efficiency of 100% under optimal conditions characterized by initial PCA concentration of 1.0 mM, pH of 7.0, and temperature of 25 ℃. SEM and TEM analyses revealed that the toxicity of PCA resulted in roughened surfaces of SP535 hyphae, voids in the cytoplasm, and thickened cell walls. PCA addition significantly elevated the activities of cytochrome P450 monooxygenase in both cell-free extracts and microsomal fractions in the media, suggesting the important role of P450 system in PCA metabolization by SP535. The results provide microbial resource and fundamental knowledge for addressing PCA pollution.
Level of Completion of Maternity Continuum of Care among ever-married women: An analysis of Somalia Health and Demographic Survey 2020
Authors: Mohamed Adam A. , Akın Ayşe , Mihciokur Sare , Üner Sarp , Gele Abdi
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Somalia has one of the worst maternal conditions in the world with maternal mortality ratio of 692 per 100,000 live births. For every maternal death, over 100 women suffer a severe obstetric morbidity. However, most of the maternal morbidity and mortality in Somalia are preventable through access to high quality care in pregnancy, and during and after childbirth. The aim of this study is to investigate the coverage and the level of completion of continuum of maternity care in Somalia.
Method
The study used a representative data from Somalia Health and Demographic Survey 2020. We restricted our analysis to ever-married women who had a live birth in the five years preceding the survey (n = 2432). The outcome variable was the completion of the continuum of maternity care (CoC). A binary variable was constructed with ‘completed CoC’ coded as ‘1’ and ‘not completed’ coded as ‘0’. We analyzed the data using descriptive analyses.
Results
More than half of the women (53.1%) had their most recent births at the age ≤ 19 years old. Of all the mothers (n = 2432), only 235 (9.7%) had at least four or more of the recommended antenatal care of four and above (ANC4+), 68 (2.8%) of them utilized skilled birth attendants (SBA) and 2.7% have received postnatal care (PNC) within 48hrs. In total, only 0.6% (N = 14) of the women had received all of the three maternal healthcare services (ANC4+, SBA, and PNC with in 48hrs). About 78.1% of the mothers did not attend any of the three CoC services.
Conclusion
Maternal health care utilization decreases as they progress from ANC4 + to PNC utilization. The government and partners should design and implement a tailored strategy to improve access and utilization of maternal healthcare services with special attention to rural and nomadic populations.
Semi-synthetic sapogenin derivatives inhibit inflammation-induced tumorigenic signaling alterations in prostate carcinogenesis
Authors: BUTUNER Bilge DEBELEC , OZTURK Mert Burak , TAG Ozgur , AKGUN Ismail Hakki , BEDIR Erdal
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Prostatic inflammation is closely linked to prostate cancer (PCa) and plays a pivotal role in tumor development and progression via altering a wide range of cellular mechanisms, including proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Since the tumor infiltration of the immune system cells, such as macrophages, leads to higher expression of inflammatory mediators in the tumor microenvironment, the use of anti-inflammatory drugs could provide a valid contribution to preventing and treating cancer. In our research, we explored semi-synthetic derivatives of cycloastragenol (CA) and astragenol (AG) molecules to assess their potential to inhibit inflammation-induced tumorigenic signaling pathways.
Methods
Levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO), expression of proteins function in tumorigenic cellular mechanisms, cellular apoptosis and migration were examined.
Results
Building on our previous study, which revealed the molecules' inhibitory activity on the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), we discovered that these molecules also suppressed enhanced cell proliferation and migration by inhibiting distinct molecular mechanisms. Additionally, they were able to mitigate elevated levels of ROS, NO, and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) caused by inflammation. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of these molecules partially restored the loss of androgen receptor (AR) and tumor suppressor NKX3.1, both of which contribute to prostate tumorigenesis in an inflammatory microenvironment. Furthermore, they reversed the activation of Akt and β-catenin signaling induced by inflammation, suggesting their potential to inhibit inflammation-related prostate tumorigenesis. Our study also demonstrated that the molecules exhibited dose-dependent effects on inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as evidenced by increased p21 and decreased BCL-2 protein levels, ultimately leading to activated cell death and suppressed cellular migration.
Conclusion
Semi-synthetic sapogenol derivatives have displayed promise as anti-inflammatory and anticancer drug candidates for targeting prostatic inflammation and inflammation-induced prostate carcinogenesis.
Temperature regulation of Heterotrigona itama (Cockerell, 1918) in lamp posts nests
Authors: Anthony Florina , Yek Sze Huei
Published: August 2024

The commercial stingless bee Heterotrigona itama naturally nests in tree cavities but was kept in wooden boxes in meliponiculture farms. However, at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), these bees primarily nest in lamp posts. We conducted a temperature survey to assess lamp posts as potential nesting sites for H. itama, aiming to determine if the preference for occupied lamp posts was related to their distribution. We measured ambient temperatures in occupied lamp posts in shaded areas and unoccupied lamp posts in exposed areas on the UMS campus, calculating the percentage of time these temperatures fell outside the optimal range for H. itama. Additionally, we analyzed the occurrence and timing of temperature regulation in lamp post nests by comparing temperature differences between occupied and unoccupied lamp posts across four-time blocks. Temperature measurements of occupied (shaded) and unoccupied (exposed) lamp posts revealed that shaded lamp posts experienced temperatures outside the bees' optimal range (27°C-32°C) less often than exposed lamp posts (68.4% vs. 78.12%). This suggests that H. itama may prefer shaded lamp posts due to their more stable temperature profile. Additionally, the internal temperature of lamp posts, whether occupied or not, was consistently 1.54–1.76°C warmer than ambient during hotter periods and closer to ambient during cooler periods, indicating inherent insulation properties of the metal lamp posts. However, a notable difference in temperature between occupied and unoccupied posts was observed in the late afternoon and evening, suggesting active thermoregulation by bees to maintain optimal nest temperature.
Characterization of 3D printed composite for final dental restorations
Authors: Tanaka Lucas Eigi Borges , Rodrigues Camila Silva , Grangeiro Manassés Tércio Vieira , Campos Tiago Moreira Bastos , Melo Renata Marques
Published: August 2024

Objectives
This study evaluated the surface, mechanical properties, and optical behavior of a 3D printing resin comparing it with a machinable resin composite.
Materials and Methods
Specimens of different sizes and shapes were either printed (Vitality, Smart Dent) or machined (Grandio Blocs, Voco GmbH) resin composites with similar composition were prepared. Surface and mechanical characterization were performed with Knoop hardness, flexural strength (three-point-bending), elastic modulus tests. The wear of the tested materials was evaluated against steatite antagonists. The optical properties stability (color change, ΔE00, and translucency, TP00) were observed after staining in red wine. In addition, the bond strength of the resin composites to two resin cement protocols were investigated with microshear bond strength tests at baseline and after thermocycling. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) was used for microstructural and chemical characterization. Statistical analyses were performed with t- and ANOVA tests.
Results
Hardness values (132.76 (16.32) KH- Grandio and 35.87 (2.78) KH - printed), flexural strength (172.17 (26.99) MPa - Grandio and 88.69 (8.39) MPa - printed) and color/translucency change of 1.86 (0.31)/0.06 - Grandio and 3.73 (0.36)/9, 16- printed and depth of wear (24.97 mm (3.60)- Grandio and 7.16 mm (2.84) - printed) were statistically different. No statistical differences were observed for mean roughness (Ra) between materials. For bond strength, mean values (MPa) for non-aged and aged groups were respectively 21.76 (6.64) / 31.9 (12.66) for Bifix cement (Voco GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany) and 26.75 (5.14) / 24.36 (6.85) for Variolink cement (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein) in Vitality and 17.79 (3.89) / 9.01 (3.36) ) for Bifix cement and 22.09 (6.55) / 11.01 (3.77) for Variolink cement in Grandio. The material (p < 0.001) and aging (p < 0.003) factor did affect bond strength but the cement factor did not (p = 0.202). No statistical differences were observed for mean roughness (Ra) between materials. The better dispersion and larger size of the inorganic particles in the Grandio were contrasted with the clustered smaller particles of Vitality, under SEM.
Results
The mechanical properties and color stability of the machinable resin were superior to those of the printed resin, probably due to the greater amount and dispersion of inorganic particles in the machinable resin, but bond strength after aging was stronger and more stable in the printed resin.
Clinical Relevance:
This study aims to evaluate the possibility of the use of printed composite resin restorations, which can serve as a reference to corroborate its use or to indicate where the manufacture of printed restorations should be improved for the marketplace.
nonlinear site effect model for the horizontal component of ground-motion prediction equations using VS30 derived from the KiK-net and K-NET sites in Japan
Authors: Ruibin Hou , Zhao John
Published: August 2024

The time-averaged shear-wave velocity in the top 30 meters of soil and rock, VS30, is the most commonly used site-effect proxy for ground-motion prediction equations (GMPEs). This article presents a nonlinear site amplification model, referred to as the 1D TVS30 model, which uses VS30 as a site-effect proxy for the horizontal component of motion for GMPEs, based on seismic data from Japan. The site amplification ratios were from Hou and Zhao (2022) using site period TS, and the site shear-wave velocity profiles were also from Hou and Zhao (2022) based on the selected KiK-net and K-NET networks. The data distribution characteristics show that 1D site amplification ratio data could compensate well for the scarcity of empirical data at strong shaking levels, and provide a more confident constraint on model development. The 1D TVS30 model in this study has a larger between-site standard deviation and slightly smaller within-site standard deviation than the 1D TS model that we published previously. The predicted site amplification ratios from the two models are close for sites with shallow soil but are significantly different for sites with deep soil. The method proposed in our previous study is recommended to implement the 1D TVS30 model into GMPEs. We also performed an informal test to validate our model. This matches well with ground-motion records with moderately or strong nonlinear site response in the NGA-West2 and NGA-Subduction datasets, especially for the NGA-Subduction records at the spectral periods up to 1.0s. Further comparison with other published models suggests that the nonlinearity of our model is moderately stronger than, or close to that of the NGA-West2 and NGA-Subduction models and is weaker than that of an existing model for Taiwan.
Improvement of Seismic Image Based on Coordinate Transformation and Incorporation of Anisotropy Factors in Seismic Velocity
Authors: Pradhan Nabanita , Gupta Saurabh Datta
Published: August 2024

Imaging and interpreting seismic signatures in the Goru Formation of the Bandha region in the Jaisalmer Sub-basin is challenging due to its complex geological setting, which features significant lateral velocity variations, dipping flanks, steeply inclined reflectors, and overburden strata. This study introduces an innovative polar coordinate velocity-based Reverse Time Migration (RTM) technique with a novel algorithm for reconstructing images of intricate geological structures. A comparative analysis of phase shift migration, cartesian velocity-based RTM, and polar velocity-based RTM reveals that the polar method improves accuracy by utilizing the spherical propagation of seismic waves. The quality of seismic images is influenced by velocity variations, which are determined by the geological properties of the area, with minimal density changes at depth. By incorporating the anisotropic compressional velocity (\(\:v\)) of the Goru Formation, along with transformed circumferential velocity (\(\:{v}_{\theta\:}\)) and radial velocity (\(\:{v}_{r}\)) the study demonstrates significantly enhanced imaging capabilities. Specifically, for steep dips, the circumferential velocity-oriented RTM outperforms both cartesian and radial velocity-based RTM at far angles, while the radial velocity-based RTM shows better performance at near angles. Additionally, conventional cartesian velocity-based RTM provides superior imaging of horst-graben structures compared to phase shift migration.
Growth and Democracy:a U-shaped Relationship
Authors: Campos Nauro , Frigerio Marco , Coricelli Fabrizio
Published: August 2024

This paper contributes to the study of the income-democracy relationship in three ways: it argues that the causal relation is U-shaped, not linear as often stated; it uses night-lights (in addition to official GDP statistics) to address measurement concerns; and it strengthens causal identification by implementing novel advances on differences-in-differences with heterogeneous treatment effects. The results show that “intermediate” regimes lead to a 20% decline in economic performance vis-à-vis both democracies and autocracies; and identify political instability as the key channel. Other potential mechanisms (such as education, investment, and inequality) lack empirical support. These findings are robust to a wide range of alternative estimators, specifications, and measures.
Mirror Reflections: The Influence of Body Perception on Obesity Bias among University Students
Authors: Onay Esra , Bozkir Cigdem
Published: August 2024

Background: This study investigates the relationship between body perception and obesity bias among university students. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing interventions that promote positive body image and reduce weight stigma.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 334 university students (237 females, 97 males) aged 18-24 from Tekirdağ Dormitory at Namık Kemal University. Participants' sociodemographic and anthropometric details were collected, and assessments were made using the Body Cathexis Scale (BCS) and the Obesity Bias Scale (GAMS-27). Statistical analyses included Chi-Square, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mann-Whitney U, t-test, Kruskall-Wallis H, One Way ANOVA, correlation analysis, and regression analysis.
Results: The study found that 81.1% of students had a high perception of their body image. Male students had higher body image and obesity bias scores than female students. Among the participants, 6.3% exhibited no bias, 43.1% were prone to bias, and 50.6% were biased. Obesity bias did not significantly differ among underweight, normal-weight, and overweight students. Individuals with low body perception exhibited higher obesity bias (65.1%) compared to those with high body perception (47.2%). A negative correlation was found between body perception and obesity bias, suggesting that lower body image scores are associated with higher obesity bias.
Conclusions: Improving body image is essential for reducing obesity bias among university students. Addressing societal ideals and fears related to weight gain can foster positive body perceptions and mitigate bias. Interventions promoting body acceptance and challenging stereotypes are necessary to create a more inclusive environment.
Use of Arch Bars versus IMF-Screws in Maxillomandibular Fixation of Mandibular Fractures: A Randomized Prospective Study with Special Evaluation of Sonographic Findings and Quality of Life
Authors: Ahmad Mukhtar Modibbo , James Olutayo , Farate Abubakar , Olasoji Hector Oladapo , Suleiman Ibrahim Kayode , Abdullahi Mohammed Adam Sheikh , Umar Farouk Kabir
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Traditionally, arch bars are used for mandibulomaxillary fixation (MMF) of mandibular fractures. The introduction of intermaxillary fixation screws (IMFS) has provided an alternative for this purpose. We compared the arch bar versus IMFS for treatment of mandibular fractures including evaluation of sonographic findings and Quality of Life (QoL).
Methods
Fifty patients with mandibular fracture were recruited and randomly divided into 2 groups, 25 each in arch bars and IMFS. The parameters evaluated were; mouth opening, malocclusion, pain, fracture healing using ultrasound scanner, operating time, wire prick injuries, oral hygiene and QoL.
Results
There was a significantly higher pain score by 3rd and 6th postoperative week (p = 0.015 and p = 0.003 respectively) and shorter operating time (p < 0.001) in the IMFS group, while a notable higher wire-prick injuries (p < 0.001) and poor oral hygiene (p = 0.25) in the arch bar group. Ultrasound Scan at 6 postoperative weeks showed complete hyperechoic bridging callus in (61.5%) arch bar group and (50%) in IMF screw group, no significant difference statistically. Regarding QoL, patients treated with arch bars had more difficulty in continuing with their normal diet and indicated “they will not undergo the same treatment again”. On the other hand IMFS patients had significantly isolated themselves because of feeling of bad mood, and their sleep and speak was significantly affected.
Conclusions
Although some similarities were observed in both groups, this study suggests that IMFS addressed some of the limitations associated with arch bars. It’s safer and can be used for long time MMF.
Trial registration number: PACTR202408851121914
Enhancing Water Resource Efficiency in Mining Sector Through Analytical Hierarchy Process and Entropy Method: A Case Study of Jharkhand
Authors: . Anand , Singh Ajai
Published: August 2024

With a population exceeding 40.3 million, Jharkhand faces critical water resource management challenges amidst its mineral-rich landscape. this study investigates the potential of integrating mine water into water resource management strategies, focusing on the Gidi A region. Utilizing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Entropy Analysis, the research assesses the feasibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of mine water utilization. The Consistency Ratio (CR) of approximately 10.24% validates the robustness of the pairwise comparisons in the AHP method. Key findings highlight stakeholders' prioritization of Water Quality (40.015%), Environmental Impact (25.77%), and Technological Feasibility (16.61%), indicating significant concerns about water purity, environmental sustainability, and practical management technologies. Infrastructure Investments emerge as the top consideration, accounting for 57.80% of the objective weight, signifying its paramount importance in water resource management in Gidi A. In contrast, Recycle and Reuse (15.30%), Green Technology (6.42%), and Conservative Measures (1.19%) exhibit lower percentages, suggesting stakeholders' relatively lower emphasis on these alternatives compared to Infrastructure Investments. Additionally, the entropy values for each alternative offer insights into stakeholders' consensus, with Infrastructure Investments showing the highest entropy value (57.80%), indicating considerable variability in stakeholder judgments but emphasizing their perceived necessity. This research offers insights for sustainable development in mining regions, aiding in the responsible and efficient utilization of mine water resources.