bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology, diagnosis, and clinical management of endometriosis
Authors: Dahab Amal Abdo , Essa Bashair Mohammed , Alabsi Mariam Tariq , Alqarni Lujain Ayed , Ahmed Latifah Arafah , Almehzaa Reem Talal , Alhayki Maryam Isa , Alhudaib Rahaf Saad , Al Ismael Fatema Ghaleb , Aljahdali Yousef Rajeh , Alokili Sarah Tourki
Published: December 2023

When it comes to talk about endometriosis, this affects around the world, and the occurrence of this has done to around 176 million women worldwide. This misplaced endometrial tissue responds to changes and undergoes cyclic bleeding and inflammation. As a result, it may produce complications, which includes pain, adhesions, fibrosis, and dysfunction in affected organs. Furthermore, there are currently no biomarkers for diagnosis without procedures. For diagnosing endometriosis, there is a gold standard laparoscopy combined with confirmation. The primary goals in treating endometriosis are to alleviate pain symptoms, improve fertility if desired by the individual affected, and prevent disease progression. The selection of treatment options is influenced by factors, including the extent and position of the illness, the patient's age, and future family plans. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that there are limitations and risks involved, such as symptoms potentially returning after stopping treatment or complications that may arise from procedures.
Diagnosis, etiology, and management strategies of open bite malocclusions
Authors: Farran Waleed H. , Alhazmi Ammar K. , Bahshan Ibrahim A. , Alhabib Batool N. , Alsultan Ameen A. , Alaraj Denah I. , Albash Abdullah F. , Alshahrani Eilaf A. , Baflah Mohammed A. , Almalallah Fatimah Y.
Published: December 2023

Open bite malocclusion is a condition where the upper and lower incisors do not overlap vertically. It involves factors like structure, dental issues and functional challenges. This review offers an overview of diagnosing, understanding the causes and managing bite malocclusions. The condition is noticeable by the gap between incisors, difficulties in biting and speech and habits like tongue thrusting. In children thumb sucking is often associated with this issue underscoring the importance of intervention. Diagnosis relies on assessments, cephalometric analysis and categorization based on dental or skeletal elements. The causes can be attributed to factors, environmental influences or behavioral habits. Various management strategies are available with treatments playing a role using methods like fixed appliances clear aligners, and innovative temporary anchorage devices (TADs). Surgical interventions such as surgery address discrepancies when necessary. Considering that open bites are age conditions, behavioral modifications along with intervention using orthopedic appliances are crucial for effective treatment. Advanced diagnostic tools like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) contribute to treatment planning. The retention phase ensures stability of results while patient cooperation remains essential throughout the process. Collaboration between orthodontist’s maxillofacial surgeons and other specialists is vital for care. The field of orthodontics is continuously advancing and with research we can expect improvements in our understanding and treatment of open bite malocclusions.
Effect of COVID-19 on chronic care management in primary health settings
Authors: Abdullah Marwah Yakoop , Almazayen Fatimh Mohammed , Hwaifr Mohammed Hijrif , Alkhatir Wafa Saleh , Albar Albader Mohammad , Abdullah Nawal Abdullah , Almodrhim Fatimah Fareed , Akmalov Saidolim , Alqurayn Mohammed Nouh , Al Muzarra Qasem Ibrahim , Alatawi Wejdan Hlel
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 outbreak has brought changes to the management of conditions in primary healthcare settings, leading to a reassessment of current practices and the adoption of innovative approaches. This article examines the symptoms and treatment methods that have emerged in response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. We explore how disruptions in care for people with illnesses and the complex relationship between chronic diseases and COVID-19 severity have influenced healthcare delivery. Additionally, we discuss the increased reliance on telehealth services, which have been crucial in ensuring patient care but have also revealed disparities in access and digital literacy. The need for a patient-centered approach is emphasized through a reevaluation of care delivery models- heightened attention to psychosocial factors. We also delve into the challenges related to resource allocation adjustments to treatment plans and the psychological impact on patients dealing with diseases. Finally, we highlight opportunities for the management of chronic conditions in the future through better integration of telehealth services and an enhanced focus on patient empowerment and preventive care. As healthcare systems adapt to this evolving landscape, there are lessons from this pandemic that can inform more patient-centric and adaptable strategies for managing chronic conditions.
Effectiveness of self-awareness training for young adults on improving their professional skills: a Quasi-experimental study
Authors: Venkatesh Hemamalini , H. P. Jyothi , Kumar P. C. Pradeep
Published: December 2023

Background: Young adulthood is a productive phase in an individual's life, marked by a shift towards achieving higher academic success and pursuing desired career paths. In this context, awareness of merits and demerits is vital in attaining desired goals. Therefore, the objective of the current study is to evaluate the differences in self-awareness skills among undergraduate students before and after participating in a life skills intervention program.
Method: The study used a quasi-experimental design involving 243 students from four private undergraduate colleges. A half-day self-awareness training program was provided using activity-based participatory approaches. Data were collected pre and one-month post-intervention through a semi-structured questionnaire validated by two mental health professionals and three industry experts.
Results: Of the 243 participants, 55.55% were female, and 44.44% were male. A significant number of female participants were in the age group of 18 to 20 (Male: 68 (62.96), Female: 113 (83.7), p<0.001) compared to male participants. The life skills intervention significantly enhanced participants' abilities to connect with like-minded individuals (Pre-in: 46.5%, post-in: 52.26%, p<0.01), make new friends (pre-in: 54.32%, post-in: 66.67%, p<0.002), and engage in team interaction (pre-in: 39.09%, post-in: 68.72%, p<0.001). additionally, there were improvements in adopting a positive approach towards tasks (pre-in: 62.14%, post-in: 64.2%, p<0.058) and prioritizing assignments (pre-in: 27.57%, post-in: 53.91%, p<0.001).
Conclusions: Our study observed a significant improvement in the domains of harmony, self-belief, adaptability, and discipline post-intervention among students.
CONSTRUÇÃO DE SISTEMA SEMI HIDROPÔNICO E COMPOSTEIRA EM COMUNIDADE RURAL DO SERTÃO PARAIBANO
Authors: De Abreu Filipe Fragoso , De Luna Neto José Tavares , Martins de Sousa José Erísson , Parnaiba Guilherme Silva , Parnaiba Robson Vitoriano , Batista Feitosa Davi Lázaro , Moreira Dantas Matheus
Published: December 2023

Pensando na sustentabilidade e em ganhos econômicos para comunidades de baixa renda, os sistemas semi-hidropônicos e de compostagem surgem como alternativas, devido suas características e benefícios agregados. O sistema semi-hidropônico é um sistema de produção de vegetais, prático de ser instalado e eficiente quanto a utilização dos recursos naturais. Aliando a esse, o sistema de compostagem, que é basicamente um transformador de lixo orgânico em adubo, possibilita a utilização desse insumo como substrato utilizado na semi-hidroponia e assim tornando o meio ainda mais sustentável e efetivo. Com base em tais conceitos, o presente trabalho mostra a construção de um sistema semi-hidropônico e uma composteira, para fins de renda e de preservação ambiental, destinado a comunidade rural da cidade de Santa Helena, no interior da Paraíba, como também relata todo o processo de interação com a comunidade por meio da pesquisa e trabalho em equipe.
University EFL Instructors’ Attitude towards English Oral Interaction: A Case Study at Wollega University, Ethiopia
Authors: Nikussa Mekonnen Tolera
Published: December 2023

The purpose of the current study was to investigate EFL instructors’ attitude towards English oral interaction in EFL classroom. For the study, a constructivism paradigm, a descriptive case study design and a qualitative research approach were employed. The participants were eight EFL instructors selected through purposive sampling technique. The data collection instrument was semi-structured interview. A phenomenological data analysis strategy was utilised. The data were analyzed in terms of the three components of attitude: cognitive, affective and behavioural components. Regarding cognitive component, all the EFL instructors perceived oral interaction as essential in promoting learners’ skills. Pertaining to affective component, the EFL instructors preferred oral interaction. Concerning behavioural component of their attitude towards oral interaction, the EFL instructors were enthusiastic to employ oral interaction in EFL classrooms. Therefore, the findings of the study portrayed that the EFL instructors had positive attitude towards oral interaction in the classroom. The findings indicated that, the EFL instructors utilized most of the oral interaction patterns in EFL classroom.  Moreover, the EFL instructors employed the different patterns of English oral interaction most often in EFL classrooms.
Assessment of the immigrants’ impact on Slovak economy
Authors: Herasimau Raman
Published: December 2023

The migration process is becoming more and more intensive in European region. There are different opinions about effects from immigration on country economy. Most of them show the positive effect via fulfilling deficit in labour market and tax payments. From the other hand, there is negative long-term effect on social security system because of poor integration of immigrants into domestic population. This paper analyses effects from immigration based on United nations National transfer accounts methodology invented by Lee and Mason. This methodology is called to break down system of national accounts with respect to age groups or generations and shows economic flows between them. Findings of this paper show that earnings and consumption behaviour of immigrants and natives in Slovakia differs – immigrants work after retirement age, earn more and consume less, what leads to positive effects in aggregate life cycle deficit.
APPLICATION OF THE SCRUM METHODOLOGY TO IMPLEMENT STANDARDIZED PROJECT DOCUMENTATION: CASE STUDY IN A SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT CONSULTING COMPANY
Authors: Graziani Álvaro Paz , Andrade Andréa Loureiro , Negri Doglas , Santos de Freitas Dhyonatan , Teixeira dos Santos Marcelo , Johann Batista Perini Sebastiam
Published: December 2023

This article presents a case study carried out in the Supply Chain and Purchasing Management department at the French consulting firm Altran Technologies. Due to the incessant search to better satisfy the expectations of its customers, the object company decided to implement a standard of services aimed at serving its customers. Therefore, this article aims to apply the scrum methodology to implement standardized project documentation in a supply chain and purchasing management-consulting company. In this way, this project was carried out according to the scrum methodology and used the Trello tool as a support tool. Thus, the documentation was created dynamically, which made the project enjoyable for the collaborators, who at times even finished their deliverables even before the deadline. Finally, it was considered that this form of standardization of service offers satisfaction in meeting demands both for the external public and for the company's internal public.
FASHION VISION BEYOND THE EYES: HOW FASHION BECOMES INCLUSIVE FOR PEOPLE WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS
Authors: De Lima Dassoler Maria Julia , Danielski Alievi Gabriela , Pereira Da Silva Maria Eduarda , Fiori Marcelino Amanda , Dos Santos Maria Helena
Published: December 2023

The present study addresses inclusive fashion as a strategy to promote social inclusion and stimulate the cognitive and emotional development of individuals with visual impairments. The research aimed to create an approach that would utilize sensory elements in fashion pieces, allowing individuals who were born blind or lost their vision early in life to create tactile representations of shapes around them. The methodology is characterized as applied in nature, involving active collaboration between participants with visual impairments and professionals in the fashion industry. Customized pieces were developed, considering the individual preferences and specific needs of each participant. The qualitative approach included interviews with three visually impaired individuals and observations to comprehend the experiences, perceptions, and challenges faced by these individuals in the context of fashion. The results indicate that the inclusion of tactile textures and functional elements, such as larger zippers and snap buttons, contributes to a more autonomous and enriching experience in the selection and use of clothing. Additionally, technology plays a significant role, with wearable devices and applications assisting in color identification and reading digital Braille labels. The proposed approach not only enhances the tactile perception of clothing but also promotes individual expression and autonomy among people with visual impairments. By creating mental representations of shapes around them, inclusive fashion stimulates cognitive and creative development in these individuals. It can be concluded that this approach represents a significant step towards a more inclusive society, where fashion is accessible to everyone, regardless of their visual abilities.
MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF GRAIN DRYING - THOMPSON'S THEORETICAL MODEL FOR DURUM WHEAT
Authors: De Col Lidiane , Ferrari Orso Keila Daiane , Zamboni Lucas
Published: December 2023

The storage of grains needs to be secure because of the quality of the product, the drying process at the time of storage in the silos is essential. Then, in this work we seek to apply the mathematical modeling proposed by Thompson to calculate grain dryers. Following Thompson's model, for a better adaptation to the wheat grain it was necessary to adjust constants proposed by him. The dryer used in the calculations is a continuous dryer with a conveyor belt to transport the grain through the interior of the chamber, it is important to emphasize that the continuous drying process can cause cracks in the grain, and thus compromise its quality. Our application is based on calculations that depend on previously fixed factors, and on the humidity of the grain at the entrance to the dryer, which will be the determining factor for the speed of the drying belt. At the end of the applications, we were able to see the difference in speed in relation to the moisture content of the grain.
APPLICATION OF INDUSTRY 4.0 TECHNOLOGIES IN THE TEXTILE SEGMENT
Authors: DIAS ANA , Dal Forno Ana , STEFFENS FERNANDA
Published: December 2023

Industry 4.0 (I4.0) has been bringing substantial digital transformations to all sectors, including the textile chain, which is considered a traditional segment and still presents resistance to applying the technologies arising from this revolution. In this sense, this study aimed to survey the scenario of the implementation of disruptive technologies of the so-called fourth industrial revolution in the textile sector through a literature review and to perform a benchmark comparison of the implementation in Industry 4.0 with that of the automotive industry. To carry out this study, some elaboration steps were followed that involved the definition of the research questions, the designation of the search strategy, the search for documents in the literature, the assessment of the quality of the studies, the critical analysis of the papers and the discussion of the results. After defining the research question, the Scopus and Web of Science databases were determined for the search, and the Rayyan application was used for document screening. Once the search strategies were defined and applied to the databases, 2432 records were found. Each information retrieval was organized by the "most relevant" criterion. The metadata of the 120 studies were screened in search of duplicates, and the titles and abstracts were read. After this process, 40 studies proceeded to compose this review. After a critical reading of the papers, it was possible to confirm that the automotive sector is one of the most technologically advanced and that the textile industry has been successfully applying some level of digital transformation.
PROPOSTA DE ADAPTAÇÃO DE UM PROGRAMA DE EDUCAÇÃO PARA O LAZER À REALIDADE BRASILEIRA
Authors: Carneiro Luciana Pereira de Moura , Ortuzar Aurora Madariaga , Zapirain Maria Begoña Garcia , Uvinha Ricardo Ricci
Published: December 2023

Este estudo reflete sobre adaptações de um Programa de Educação para o Lazer (PEL) a ser aplicado com idosos brasileiros. Utilizando alguns termos de busca, identificamos, em quatro bases de dados, seis estudos que replicaram o PEL escolhido, além do próprio Searle, Mahon e Iso-Ahola (1995), que aplicaram o modelo pela  primeira vez. Este PEL teve como base o “Community Reintegration Program” (CRP), desenvolvido por Bullock e Howe (1991) para pessoas com deficiência. Os países nos quais o PEL foi replicado foram Canadá e Taiwan. As adaptações são operacionais e de conteúdo. Assim como ocorreu quando adaptado à Taiwan, propomos que seja adaptado em temas como formato, facilitadores, equipe, frequência, atividades e local de oferta. Além disso, atividades lúdicas devem ser priorizadas na transmissão de seu conteúdo. A aplicação deste PEL pode contribuir para o debate do lazer como uma das mais importantes vias para o Envelhecimento Saudável no Brasil.
Alfabetizaciones digitales en la encrucijada
Authors: Brussa Virginia
Published: December 2023

ENTREVISTA A JAVIERA ATENAS.
PROEKOLOŠKO PONAŠANJE KAO ISHOD EKOLOŠKE PISMENOSTI
Authors: Kalmar Laura , Marić Jurišin Stanislava
Published: December 2023

Aktuelni ekološki problemi danas se mogu pripisati rastućoj populaciji, ekonomskom razvoju i industrijalizaciji, zagađenju, urbanizaciji i iscrpljivanju resursa na globalnom nivou. U osnovi, ovi tekući problemi uglavnom su povezani sa životnim stilovima ljudi i njihovim intenzivnim aktivnostima koje se odvijaju u prirodnom okruženju (Barr & Gilg 2006; Kolmuss & Agyman, 2002), što apostrofira značaj balansiranja odnosa između čoveka i prirodnog okruženja. Kao posledica toga poslednjih godina pitanja životne sredine su postala primarna u cilju prevazilaženja postojećih ekoloških problema. Ekološka pismenost je proglašena za jedan od najvažnijih aspekata ekološkog obrazovanja koje treba uzeti u obzir za upravljanje ekološkim problemima od 1970-ih. Ekološka pismenost predstavlja cilj ekološkog obrazovanja, a proekološko ponašanje tretira se kao ishod ekološke pismenosti. Važnost potrebe obrazovanja u rešavanju ekoloških problema i razvijanju ekološke pismenosti budućih generacija naglašena je na brojnim međunarodnim konferencijama, koje su poznate kao prekretnice u ekološkoj agendi. U radu je predstavljen pojam ekološkog obrazovanja, kao i pojam ekološke pismenosti. Nadalje, dat je pregled komponenti ekološke pismenosti. Ovaj rad ima za cilj da ukaže na pojam  ekološkog obrazovanja, suštinu ekološke pismenosti, kao i na pojam i cilj proekološkog ponašanja. U domaćoj literaturi se nedovoljno piše o pojmu i značaju ekološke pismenosti, te ovim radom nastojimo da popunimo tu prazninu.
APPLICATION OF THE RED PITAYA PLATFORM IN THE TECHNOLOGY OF PROTOTYPING AUTOMATED EDDY CURRENT TESTING SYSTEMS
Authors: Levchenko Oleksandr
Published: December 2023

Automated eddy current non-destructive testing has an important role in the quality inspection system for products made of conductive materials both at the production stage and during their operation. The appearance of novel alloys, the complexity of product geometry and inspection conditions, and the increased requirements for the reliability and accuracy of inspection results stimulate the acceleration process of creating new eddy current inspection tools. The technology of prototyping makes it possible to solve this problem. The purpose of the article is to review the functionality and technical characteristics of Red Pitaya for use in the technology of prototyping eddy current inspection, as well as to create a prototype architecture of an automated eddy current inspection system based on it.The choice of the Red Pitaya platform as a convenient tool for prototyping automated systems was made due to its functionality, reliability, and availability. In general, the article highlights the advantages and prospects of using the Red Pitaya platform in the prototyping of automated eddy current non-destructive testing systems. The aspects of the Red Pitaya hardware and its capabilities for expanding the functionality, which allows to create highly efficient and flexible control systems, are considered in detail. The compatibility of Red Pitaya with other devices and accessories is considered, which significantly increases its versatility and adaptability to various requirements and applications.The article highlights the importance of using the Jupyter Notebook application in combination with Red Pitaya as a convenient tool for software development. This helps to facilitate the process of creating and programmatically implementing complex signal processing algorithms in eddy current control systems, and provides flexibility in creating new software products.Modern trends and prospects for the development of eddy current testing, market needs, and the ability to adapt to different application scenarios are taken into account in the proposed architecture of the prototype automated eddy current testing system.
SIMULATION OF MUFFLER PARAMETERS IN VENTILATION CHANNELS OF VENTILATORS
Authors: Stelmakh Nataliia , Yukhymenko Yurii
Published: December 2023

During long-term observation of the operation of the ventilator (artificial lung ventilation) of the UVENT-T model, a violation of repeatability was noticed under the same operating conditions. That is, on some devices of this particular model, the air flow sensor under the same conditions showed different values when repeating the measurements.Through experiments, it was established that this is caused by the unevenness of the air flow inside the ventilation channels of the ventilator, which is most likely caused by the design of the silencers installed there.The article highlights the process of research and modeling of air flow in ventilation channels of ventilators of the apparatus due to the manufacture of several test variants of muffler designs, which should solve the problem of various deviations of flow measurements. The main idea was to change the number and size of the muffler holes. Obviously, the 5 holes of 2 mm scattered the air flow too much, due to which there was an increased risk of turbulence in the air flow, which could have caused the unevenness of its measurements. Therefore, on all new mufflers, the holes were reduced to1 mm, but their number was increased by 2 times. In total, 6 design options were obtained. All 6 options were designed in CAD SolidWorks, and flow simulation was also carried out for test models. According to the results of air flow measurements, graphic dependencies were obtained for each of the silencer samples, namely the integral of the absolute error of the flow measurement, the integral of the flow noise power, the integral of the acoustic noise power and the maximum absolute error of the flow measurement.In the future, it is proposed to develop a mathematical model of laminar air flow in a ventilator taking into account new designs of silencers, as well as to develop software for testing according to the developed algorithm and model. Conduct experimental testing of designed mufflers, as well as evaluate the results of the experiment. According to the research results, a conclusion will be made about the most effective muffler design, and its design will be used inthe production of ventilators.
Object localization and recognition using RFID tag matrices in Non-Line-of-Sight
Authors: Shen Erbo , Duan Shanshan , Guo Sijun , Yang Weidong
Published: December 2023

RFID based technology innovated a new field of wireless sensing, which has been applied in posture recognition, object localization and the other sensing fields, the existing sensing methods often require tags to be attached to dynamic targets (because RFID signals are more sensitive to moving target), significantly limiting their applications. It is a challenging task to sensing a static target without tag attached in NLOS (Non-Line-of-Sight). We utilized RFID technologies to sense the static foreign objects in agricultural products, and taken metal, rock, rubber and clod as sensing targets that are common in agricultural. By deploying a tag matrices to create a sensing region, we observed the signal variations before and after the appearance of the targets in this sensing region, determined the targets’ positions and their types. Here, we buried the targets in the media of seedless cotton and wheat, and detected static targets with a non-contact method in the NLOS. Researches illustrated that by deploying appropriate tag matrices and adjusting the angle of a single RFID antenna, the matrices signals can be sensitive to the static targets’ positions and their properties,i.e. matrices signals vary with different targets and their positions. Specifically, we achieved a 100% success rate in locating metallic targets, while the success rate for clods was the lowest at 86%. We achieved a 100% recognition rate for the types of all the four objects.
Circumventing the Uncertainties of Liquid Phase in the Compositional Control of VLS III-V Ternary Nanowires Based on Group V Intermix
Authors: Dubrovskii Vladimir
Published: December 2023

Control over the composition of III-V ternary nanowires grown by the vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) method is essential for bandgap engineering in such nanomaterials and fabrication of functional nanowire heterostructures for a variety of applications. From the fundamental viewpoint, III-V ternary nanowires based on group V intermix (InSbxAs1-x, InPxAs1-x, GaPxAs1-x and many others) present the most difficult case, because the concentrations of highly volatile group V atoms in a catalyst droplet are beyond the detection limit of any characterization technique and therefore principally unknown. Here, we present a model for the vapor-solid distribution of such nanowires, which fully circumvents the uncertainties that remained in the theory so far, and link the nanowire composition to the well-controlled parameters of vapor. The unknown concentrations of group V atoms in the droplet do not enter the distribution, despite of the fact that a growing solid is surrounded by the liquid phase. The model fits quite well the available data on the vapor-solid distributions of VLS InSbxAs1-x, InPxAs1-x and GaPxAs1-x nanowires grown with different catalyst. Even more importantly, it provides a basis for the compositional control of III-V ternary nanowires based on group V intermix, and can be extended over other material systems where two highly volatile elements enter a ternary solid alloy through a liquid phase.
Design of a Thermoelectric Generator System for Coupling in Air Conditioning Equipments
Authors: Armenta-Déu Carlos
Published: December 2023

The paper describes and analyzes the performance of a new thermoelectric generation system based on the use of Peltier cells inserted in the ducts of the air conditioning equipment. The hot and cold air streams that flow in the two separated sections of an air conditioning system are used to create a thermal gradient between the two faces of the Peltier cells. Hot and cold air flow inside the A/C unit are driven to a built in thermal chamber where the Peltier cells are placed. Peltier cells are incrusted into an insulation wall that separates the two sections of the chamber through which hot and cold air streams are flowing. The so designed configuration allows the Peltier cells to generate electric current. The study has been run for constant cold air temperature and variable hot air temperature, resulting in a variable performance of the thermoelectric generator. Theoretical study has been completed with experimental tests to determine real performance of the thermoelectric unit. Efficiency of the thermoelectric generator has been found to be linearly dependent on the temperature difference between hot and cold air subsections of the chamber. Maximum efficiency, however, is limited by the hot air stream temperature, since in real conditions ambient temperature cannot overpasses a specific value. For standard operational conditions, 5º C and 45º C for the cold and hot air streams, the thermoelectric generator operates at 44% of the maximum efficiency attainable.
Shear Performance of the Interface of Sandwich Specimens with FRCM Vegetal Fabric Skins
Authors: Gil Lluís , Mercedes Luis , Mendizabal Virginia , Bernat-Maso Ernest
Published: December 2023

The utilization of vegetal fabric reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) represents an innovative approach to composite materials, offering distinct sustainable advantages when compared to traditional steel-reinforced concrete and conventional FRCM composites employing synthetic fibers. This article introduces a design for sandwich solutions based on a core of extruded polystyrene and composite skins combining mortar as a matrix and diverse vegetal fabrics as fabrics such as hemp and sisal. The structural behavior of the resulting sandwich panel is predominantly driven by the interaction between materials (mortar and polyurethane) and the influence of shear connectors penetrating the insulation layer. This study encompasses an experimental campaign involving double-shear tests, accompanied by heuristic bond-slip models for potential design of sandwich solutions. The analysis extends to the examination of various connector types, including hemp, sisal, and steel, and their impact on the shear performance of the sandwich specimens.
The results obtained emphasize the competitiveness of vegetal fabrics in achieving effective composite strength comparable to other synthetic fabrics like glass fiber. Nevertheless, the study reveals that the stiffness of steel connectors outperforms vegetal connectors, contributing to an enhanced improvement in both stiffness and shear strength of the sandwich solutions
Enhancing the Supervisory Board of the Corruption Eradication Commission: Insights from Hong Kong, United Kingdom, and European Union
Authors: Lutfi Mustafa , Ramadhita Ramadhita , Septiani Septiani , Nur Asrul Ibrahim
Published: December 2023

Establishing the KPK Supervisory Board as a juridical consequence of Law Number 19 of 2019 is an effort to improve KPK's supervisory system. But its formation has caused many pros and cons in the community. The existence of this board is considered to weaken and hinder the performance of KPK. This study analyzes the position of the KPK Supervisory Board after Constitutional Court Decree Number 70/PUU-XVII/2019 concerning reducing the pro-Justitia authority of the Supervisory Board regarding the comparative study involving several countries. This study uses legal research with comparative and statutory approaches. The study results show that the KPK Supervisory Board, as the KPK's internal supervisory body, still requires adjustments by adopting the supervisory mechanisms implemented by comparator countries relevant to the Indonesian Legal System. Some of these are related to the mechanism of monitoring and evaluation of the performance of the KPK Supervisory Board and the KPK itself.
Using digital methods in active power measurement
Authors: Alegria Francisco
Published: December 2023

Digitized voltage and current waveforms can be used to estimate active power by processing the obtained samples through two methods: Discrete Integration and Spectral Analysis. The former involves computing the average of the sample-by-sample product of the two waveforms, while the latter uses sine fitting algorithms to estimate the amplitude and initial phase of each waveform. Precision expressions for both estimators are derived as a function of the number of samples acquired and the amount of additive random noise present, which is useful for determining the confidence interval for measurements. The two estimators are compared, and it is concluded that the second method, using sine fitting, is sometimes superior.
On the use of 3D camera to accurately measure volume and weight of dairy cow feed
Authors: Cotticelli Alessio , Verde Maria Teresa , Liccardo Annalisa , De Alteriis Giorgio , Lamonaca Francesco , Matera Roberta , Neglia Gianluca , Peric Tanja , Prandi Alberto , Bonavolontà Francesco
Published: December 2023

The paper discusses the challenges facing the dairy industry due to increased farm sizes and reduced staff-to-animal ratios, which are impacting animal welfare. The development of precision livestock farming (PLF) technologies has gained momentum to address these challenges. PLF technologies can assess animal welfare and health status by monitoring animal behavior and biological changes, and alerting farmers of any issues. However, the applicability of PLF tools in other productive phases of the dairy cattle is still limited. The article focuses on the challenges of managing unweaned dairy calves, particularly the variability in relation to when calves start consuming solid feed, and how PLF technologies can be used to monitor individual calf intake and manage weaning at the individual level. The attention is mainly focused on the advantages of using automated feeders for unweaned dairy calves, including labor savings, greater precision in measurement and control of individual intake of liquid and solid feed, and higher preweaning growth rates. In particular, a method is proposed, involving a 3D depth camera and a proper algorithm to measure the volume and weight of eaten feed. The method is preliminarily assessed in tests conducted in laboratory, which highlight a remarkable concurrence (differences as low as 2 %) with respect to nominal values.
Acute myeloneuropathy due to Glutaric aciduria-1: expanding the phenotypic spectrum.
Authors: Baskar Dipti , Christopher Rita , Arunachal Gautham , Anud Davuluri Durga Srinivas , Mounika Ambati , Sangeeth TA , Polavarapu Kiran , Shalini BS , Joshi Tarachand , Sanka Sai Bhargava , Nashi Saraswati , Raja Pritam , Chowdary Ravindranadh Mundlamuri , Yadav Ravi , Nalini Atchayaram , Vengalil Seena
Published: December 2023

Background: Glutaric aciduria type-1 (GA-1) is a rare metabolic disorder due to mutation in GCDH gene resulting in varied clinical manifestations. Here we report a case of adult-onset GA-1 with acute myelo-neuropathy and chronic renal failure. Institutional ethics committee approval was obtained and genetic analysis was done by clinical exome sequencing.
Case presentation: A 19 year-old-man with 2 years history of chronic renal disease presented with 5 months history of sudden onset weakness of proximal and distal lower limbs and bladder retention. This was preceded by recurrent episodes of vomiting. On examination he had features of myeloneuropathy. Evaluation showed significant elevation of blood glutaryl carnitine with very low free carnitine along with brain MRI showing extensive white matter signal changes with diffusion restriction, subependymal nodules and involvement of internal capsule. Diagnosis was confirmed by clinical exome sequencing which showed a novel pathogenic homozygous missense mutation in exon 11 of GCDH gene (c.120C>T, p.His403Tyr).
Conclusions: This report expands phenotypic spectrum of GA-1 to include late onset acute myelo-neuropathy with chronic renal failure. A high index of suspicion is required since early treatment might decelerate further disease progression.
The impact of gestational diabetes mellitus on the development of pregnancy outcomes in twin pregnancies: a retrospective cohort study conducted at a tertiary hospital
Authors: Wu Hanglin , Zhang Lin , Xie Zhen , Cai Hongxia , Zhang Jindi , Yu Limin
Published: December 2023

Background: The impact of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on pregnancy outcomes in twin pregnancies has not been fully understood. This study aimed to examine the effects of GDM on the risk of pregnancy outcomes in twin pregnancies and to investigate the relationship between glycemic levels and the risk of preeclampsia (PE) and abnormal fetal growth.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 736 twin pregnancies was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Hangzhou, China. Propensity score matching and multivariable logistic models were utilized to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes between twin pregnancies with GDM and those without GDM. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to address the intertwin correlation between glycemic levels and the primary outcomes. Results were reported as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results: There was no significant difference in the risk of PE between non-GDM and GDM pregnancies (OR, 0.70; 95% CI: 0.38-1.27; P = 0.238). Women without GDM were less likely to require admission to the intensive care unit compared with women with GDM (OR, 0.19; 95% CI: 0.06-0.57; P = 0.003). No significant differences were found in the other maternal and neonatal outcomes between the study groups, including small and large for gestational age. Women with fasting blood glucose levels from 5.1 mmol/L to less than 5.3 mmol/L had a significantly higher risk of PE compared with women without GDM (OR, 2.90; 95% CI: 1.12-7.51; P = 0.028). In subgroups of HbA1c, HbA1c ≥ 5.5% had the highest risk of PE in the second and third trimesters compared with women without GDM (OR, 4.90; 95% CI: 1.00-24.12; P = 0.05).
Conclusion: The risk of PE was not increased in twin pregnancies complicated with GDM, but significantly increased in women with an HbA1c ≥5.5%. Twin pregnancies with GDM had a higher risk of admission to the intensive care unit compared with non-GDM twin pregnancies. Strict glycemic control may decrease the risk of PE in twin pregnancies with GDM.
Comparative analysis on genome-wide of NF-Y transcription factors between ‘Pinot Noir’ and Vitis amurensis
Authors: Lu Shixiong , Zhou Xueting , Huang Xu , Zeng Baozheng , Gou Huiming , Ma Weifeng , Ma Zonghuan , Mao Juan , Chen Bai-Hong
Published: December 2023

Nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) play a crucial role in the response of plants to abiotic stresses. However, there is a lack of research on the comparative analysis of bioinformatics and RT-qPCR of NF-Y transcription factors in ‘Pinot Noir’ and Vitis amurensis. In this study, a total of 27 and 26 NF-Y transcription factors were identified in ‘Pinot Noir’ and Vitis amurensis, respectively，and were divided into 3 subgroups. The subcellular localization prediction revealed that they were mainly located in the nucleus. Conserved motif analysis showed that five motifs from the NF-YB transcription factors exhibited higher conservation than the NF-YA and NF-YC transcription factors. The analysis of NF-Y transcription factor promoters showed that there were various stress-related elements such as drought, anaerobic induction, and ABA, etc. RT-qPCR analysis of ‘Pinot Noir’ and ‘Zuoyouhong’ plantlets demonstrated that the expression levels of VaNF-YA6, VaNF-YB5, VvNF-YA3, VvNF-YA5, and VvNF-YC2, etc. significantly upregulated under 400 mmol·L-1 NaCl and 10% PEG treatments. Furthermore, subcellular localization using tobacco leaves analysis showed that the VaNF-YA6-GFP fusion protein was primarily located in the nucleus. The overexpression of VaNF-YA6 in Arabidopsis can significantly enhance Arabidopsis tolerance to salt and drought stresses by activating antioxidant enzyme activity.
Identifying differences in molecular characteristics relevant for remodelling of periodontal ligament stem cells from upper and lower jaw
Authors: Malyaran Hanna , Craveiro Rogerio B. , Mert Sinan , Niederau Christian , Maas Sanne Lidewij , Vorst Emiel Petrus Carla van der , Hölzle Frank , Jahnen-Dechent Wilhelm , Wolf Michael , Neuss Sabine
Published: December 2023

Background
Clinical experience holds that the precise localization of periodontal defects greatly influences the velocity and effectiveness of wound healing and bone remodelling. Periodontal healing is quicker and more efficient in the maxilla (upper jaw) than in the mandible (lower jaw). Differences in blood supply, innervation, and odontogenesis of upper vs. lower jaw may all influence healing, but cell-intrinsic differences may also exist. Few studies focused on cell signaling in mechanically stimulated human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSC), none of which considered the differences between mandible and maxilla.
Methods
To unravel differences in molecular mechanisms and pathways in PDLSC using kinomics technology. Cells were characterized in terms of stem cell surface markers (CD34, CD45, CD73, CD90 and CD105), proliferation and differentiation capacity (adipogenic, osteogenic and chondrogenic). Besides, the kinase activity was analyzed via a multiplex kinase activity profiling technology. The phosphorylation status of cellular proteins in upper and lower jaw PDLSC cells from healthy donors is presented. We map differential kinase activity in known gene regulatory networks using network analysis to explain the observed cell-intrinsic differences in growth and regeneration of these cells.
Results
Upstream kinase analysis revealed two EphA receptors that were significantly stronger expressed in the mandible compared to maxilla. EphA4 signaling is known to inhibit osteogenic differentiation. Pathway analysis revealed that PI3K-Akt pathway is more active in the lower jaw.
Conclusion
Our findings showed that PDLSC from upper jaw have a significant higher proliferation rate and better differentiation capability. Results indicate differential activation of gene regulatory pathways in PDLSC from upper vs. lower jaw, which should be considered in studies regarding the regenerative capacity of PDLSC.
Excessive erythrophagocytosis accounts for systemic inflammation in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Meng Qian , Yang Xiaowei , You Guoxing , Chen Wanyi , Zhao Bing , Zhu Huizi , Xu Liang , Zhou Yan , Liu Xiang , Zhai Chunjuan , Wang Rong , Sun Jing , Zhao Lian
Published: December 2023

Objective and design
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with persistent systemic inflammation. Reduced red blood cell (RBC) survival in patients with CKD has been identified for several decades. The purpose of this study is to explore whether excessive erythrophagocytosis exists and contributes to systemic inflammation in CKD.
Methods and subjects
A CKD rat model was induced by 5/6 nephrectomy. Erythrophagocytosis was evaluated in vivo and in vitro. RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the inflammatory effects after erythrophagocytosis.
Results
Erythrocyte osmotic fragility and deformability progressively declined, and the percentage of PS-exposing RBCs progressively increased in CKD rats. More of erythrocytes from 5/6Nx rats were phagocytosed by macrophages in comparison to those from control rats in vivo and in vitro. Macrophages phagocytosed CKD erythrocytes exhibited higher mRNA levels of IL-6, CXCL-10, CXCL-11, iNOS, IL-1β, ICAM-1 and MCP-1. The red pulp of rats with CKD exhibited higher levels of p-NFκB, IL-6, iNOS and CXCL-10. ELISA results showed significantly increased plasma levels of both IL-6 and CXCL-10 in patients with long-term hemodialysis compared with those in healthy controls.
Conclusions
Our results indicated that excessive erythrophagocytosis might be an important source of systemic inflammation in CKD.
Spatial Data Mining for Prediction of Unobserved Zinc Pollutant using Various Kriging Methods
Authors: Krotha Durga pujitha , SK Fathimabi , G JayaLakshmi , M Suneetha
Published: December 2023

After years of contamination, rivers may get large amounts of heavy metal pollution. Our investigation's goal is to identify the river's hazardous locations. In our study case, we select the zinc-contaminated floodplains of the Meuse River (Zn). Excessive zinc levels may lead to a variety of health issues, including anemia, rashes, vomiting, and cramping in the stomach. However, there isn't a lot of sample data available about the Meuse River's zinc concentration; as a result, it's necessary to generate the missing data in unidentified regions. This study employs universal Kriging in spatial data mining to explore and predict unknown zinc pollutants. The semivariogram is a useful tool for representing the variability pattern of zinc. To predict the unknown regions, this captured model will be interpolated using the Kriging method. Regression with geographic weighting makes it possible to see how stimulus-response relationships change over space. We use a variety of semivariograms in our work, such as matern, exponential, and linear models. We also propose Universal Kriging and geographically weighted regression. The experimental findings show that: (i) the matern model, as determined by calculating the minimum error sum of squares, is the best theoretical semivariogram model; and (ii) the accuracy of the predictions can be visually demonstrated by projecting the results onto the real map.
The Heterogeneous Effects of the First Childbirth on Women’s Income
Authors: Jahromi Afrouz Azadikhah , Huang Weige
Published: December 2023

This study estimates the heterogeneous effects of the first childbirth on women's annual income in the United States using the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth data from 1979 to 2018. Women usually experience an immediate decrease in their income after childbirth relative to what they would have earned if they had not become mothers. The gap closes somewhat over time though mothers never fully catch up to their counterfactuals. Previous work tried to explain the motherhood penalty by estimating the average treatment effect of children on women's income; however, these effects can be quite heterogeneous across mothers with different observable characteristics. In this study, our interest centers on the distribution of the individual-level effect of the first childbirth on mothers' income using the Changes-in-Changes model and quantile regression. Identifying the features of this distribution is a challenging task as it requires the knowledge of joint distribution. We find that around 73% of mothers have lower income after their first childbirth relative to what they would have had if they had not had a child.. Moreover, the adverse effects of motherhood on income are particularly pronounced among 10-20% of mothers. Our quantile regression analysis, documented in the Appendix, indicates that the first childbirth most negatively affects older, single/divorced, white, more educated mothers, and those with higher potential earnings had they not given birth.