bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hippocampal Avoidance Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation using Helical Tomotherapy in Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors:   Division of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Thailand, Jia-Mahasap Bongkot , Vuthiwong Withawat ,   Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University,Thailand, Klunklin Pichayaponne ,   Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Sripan Patumrat ,   Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Chitapanarux Imjai ,   Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Tharavichitkul Ekkasit ,   Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Chakrabandhu Somvilai ,   Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Onchan Wimrak ,   Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) is a standard treatment for small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Reduced radiation doses at the hippocampal region during PCI might protect against neurocognitive decline after radiotherapy (RT). The purpose of this study is to report the outcome of hippocampal avoidance PCI (HA-PCI) in our center. METHODS After the initial treatment of SCLC, patients whose radiographic data confirmed the absence of intracranial metastasis and controlled of the primary disease received HA-PCI. Thai Mental State Examination (TMSE) and bilateral hippocampal volumes were recorded and analyzed using the Wilcoxon Singed Rank test to compare baseline and two time points (3 and 6 months). The two-year overall survival (OS) and brain control rates were estimated using the Kaplan Meier method. RESULTS Between 2018 and 2021, a total of 10 patients were included in the analysis. The median TMSE and bilateral hippocampal volumes showed no statistically significant difference between baseline and 3 and 6 months. Two-year OS and brain control rates were 78.8% and 71.4%, respectively. Three patients developed intracranial relapses after HA-PCI which were located outside the hippocampal region. CONCLUSIONS HA-PCI did not increase intracranial relapse in this study. HA-PCI should be considered as a treatment option which can potentially protect neurocognitive functions.
Estimation of Post-mortem Interval Based on Livor Mortis using a Colorimeter in Thai Populations
Authors:   Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand, Ngamloetphochit Seni , Vachirawongsakorn Vijarn ,   Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE Livor mortis is a helpful and widely used method of estimating postmortem interval (PMI) in Thailand. This study aimed to investigate the value of a colorimeter as a tool for estimating the PMI. METHODS The color of livor mortis and control skin in 80 cadavers whose PMI was within 12 hours was measured by a colorimeter. The L* (brightness), a*b* (chroma and hue), and ∆E* values were compared to the control skin values. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the relationship between PMI and skin color before and after application of a specific pressure. RESULTS The results showed that colorimetric parameters were only weakly correlated with the PMI. An univariable analysis of ∆E* values was performed and showed good discriminatory power, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.82. The recommended cut-off value of ∆E* was 14 for the discrimination between early PMI (less than 6 hours) and late PMI (6-12 hours), in which the sensitivity and specificity were 72.5% and 80%. CONCLUSIONS The findings in this study reinforce the utility of colorimetric measurements in PMI estimation. With additional study and a larger sample size, the estimation of PMI could be established for general use in forensic practice.
Knowledge and Awareness of Human Papillomavirus Infection and Vaccination in Thai Male Youth, Including Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Sethasathien Sethawat , Pansuwan Gun ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Khanoowatthana Chotinan ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Rattansiriwongwut Thanakrit ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Chinarakbamrung Thanatcha ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Inthasorn Pitchayut ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Nantasupha Chalaithorn ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai, Thailand
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE There is currently a lack of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination policy and education for male youth in Thailand. This study aimed to evaluate Thai male youth’s knowledge and awareness of HPV infection and vaccination, determine their HPV vaccination rate, and factors related to the vaccination rate and the level of awareness of HPV. METHODS A questionnaire survey on HPV vaccination was distributed to educational institutions across different regions of Thailand. Inclusion criteria included Thai male youth aged between 15 and 24 years, regardless of sexual orientation. Exclusion criteria were inability to access the internet, individuals whose responses were unintelligible, and those who did not complete the questionnaire. The trends of the association between participant characteristics and their HPV knowledge/awareness scores was analyzed using linear regression. RESULTS A total of 594 individuals responded to the questionnaire. The median score for knowledge was 11 out of 18 and the awareness level was 80%. Higher education level, higher family income, bisexuality, and prior receipt of HPV information were statistically significantly linked to higher HPV knowledge scores. However, only previous receipt of HPV information was associated with an increased awareness level. CONCLUSIONS Although the level of HPV knowledge and awareness among Thai males was acceptable, less than 50% of participants expressed an intention to get vaccinated. This indicates there is a need to improve the promotion of the HPV vaccine in order to achieve herd immunity.
Mitigation of Surface Browning in Fresh-Cut Banana Blossom by Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) Pulp Extract: A Role in Regulating ROS Metabolism
Authors:   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Uttaradit Rajabhat University, Uttaradit, 53000, Thailand, Chomkitichai Warunee , Intarasit Sitthisak ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
Published: April 2024

T he surface browning of fresh-cut products not only diminishes their nutritional content but also lowers their market value. Fresh-cut banana blossom (FBB), an increasingly popular vegan food, is prone to browning on the cut surface, which poses a significant challenge for this fresh-cut produce. Chemicals and natural extracts are commonly used to address this issue in fresh-cut produce, offering alternatives to synthetic chemicals. Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) pulp extract (TPE), derived from the tamarind fruit, contains compounds such as polyphenols with antioxidant properties, making it an intriguing choice as an anti-browning agent. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of TPE on surface browning and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism in FBB during storage at 30 ± 1 °C. FBB was immersed in 0 % (the control) and 2.5 % TPE for 5 min, then rinsed with distilled water, air-dried, and stored at 30 ± 1 °C for 60 h. The control group showed increasing surface browning and declining overall quality during storage. TPE immersion significantly enhanced antioxidant defense systems during storage compared to the control. The heightened activity of antioxidant enzymes and increased non-enzymatic antioxidant levels corresponded with decreased ROS levels, oxidative membrane damage, and surface browning. These findings suggest that TPE has the potential to effectively reduce browning in FBB and may serve as an effective anti-browning agent for other fresh-cut products.
https://epg.science.cmu.ac.th/ejournal/journal-detail.php?id=11813
Authors:   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Annapoorana Engineering College, Salem - 636308, Tamilnadu, India, Saminathan Matheshwaran , Ayyappan Solaiyappan ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Government College of Technology, Coimbatore - 641013, Tamilnadu, India
Published: April 2024

In this study, waste magnesite (WM) particles with different weight fractions (2.5%, 5%, and 7.5%) were used as particulate material in 6061 aluminium alloy to produce composites with improved properties. The composite material was manufactured using a stir-casting method. A surface morphology investigation confirms the uniform distribution and good interfacial bonding of the WM particles within the alloy base. The addition of 5% WM particles was found to improve the values of tensile strength of 146.68 MPa, hardness of 131.6 HV and coefficient of friction of 0.565. Incorporating 7.5% WM was found to give a low wear of 161 μm and a corrosion current of 8.5 x 10-6 A. The results obtained confirm that such a proportion of WM particles in Al 6061 alloy provides excellent anticorrosion protection, wear properties, and good mechanical properties. Adding 5% WM to Al 6061 improves overall performance characteristics among other ratios.
Resiliencia durante la pandemia en territorios turistificados
Authors: Casado-Buesa Mikel Pau , López-Gay Antonio , Blanco-Romero Asunción
Published: April 2024

El desarrollo intensivo de la actividad turística en espacios urbanos ha inducido transformaciones notables del tejido urbano que han generado fenómenos como la sobreespecialización de las actividades económicas. Con ella, se ha podido registrar una reconfiguración de las relaciones sociales de la población residente con su entorno, así como una modificación de la forma en la que accede a los bienes y servicios básicos.
Partiendo de una organización desigual de las actividades en planta baja en cinco ejes de distintos barrios de la ciudad de Barcelona, en el presente artículo se explora el impacto que ha tenido en ellos la pandemia de la COVID-19. El objetivo principal del artículo es analizar la resiliencia de estos ejes en dos aspectos principales: (i) la capacidad de las actividades de perdurar en el tiempo y, (ii) la permanencia o no de los servicios básicos de las actividades hacia el barrio.
Los resultados revelan que aquellos territorios cuya actividad socioeconómica previa a la COVID-19 era más diversa y contaban con comercios y servicios cotidianos para la población residente, mostraron una mayor capacidad de adaptación y, por tanto, resistieron mejor a los impactos socioeconómicos derivados de la propia pandemia. En la interpretación de los resultados se subraya el diferente grado de turistificación como un factor relevante para explicar las diversas trayectorias observadas.
Time characteristics of aero-optical imaging degeneration of the ellipsoidal dome under variable operating conditions
Authors: Yu Jiaqian , Zhu Chonghui , Song Wenlong
Published: April 2024

As a missile flies at high speed, the index and surface shape of the conformal dome will vary under the influence of the aero-optical effect, which will degenerate the performance of the seeker’s imaging detection system. However, many previous studies on aero-optical imaging deterioration of optical domes were usually carried out under fixed operating conditions, which are not in line with the real flight scene of the missile. In addition, the aero-optical imaging degeneration of the dome is diverse as the flight time increases. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the time characteristics of aero-optical imaging degradation of optical domes under variable work conditions. In this study, taking an air-to-air missile as an example, the Zernike polynomials, wavefront aberration, Strehl ratio, and image simulation are applied to evaluate the aero-optical imaging deterioration of an ellipsoidal dome in the flight time range of 0–10 s under variable working conditions. The simulation results show that, as the flight time increases, (1) the dynamic range of tilt, defocus, astigmatism, coma, and wavefront aberration increase; and (2) the Strehl ratio and the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of the simulated images decrease. Therefore, the influence of flight time on the aero-optical image degradation of the ellipsoidal dome gradually becomes more serious.
Inelastic two-wave mixing induced high-efficiency transfer of optical vortices
Authors: Deng Xu , Shui Tao , Yang Wen-Xing
Published: April 2024

A scheme for high-efficiency transfer of optical vortices is proposed by an inelastic two-wave mixing (ITWM) process in an inverted-Y four-level atomic medium, which is originally prepared in a coherent superposition of two ground states. The orbital angular momentum (OAM) information in the incident vortex probe field can be transferred to the generated signal field through the ITWM process. Choosing reasonable experimentally realizable parameters, we find that the presence of the off-resonance control field can greatly improve the conversion efficiency of optical vortices, rather than in the absence of a control field. This is caused by the broken of the destructive interference between two one-photon excitation pathways. Furthermore, we also extend our model to an inelastic multi-wave mixing process and demonstrate that the transfer efficiency between multiple optical vortices strongly depends on the superposition of the ground states. Finally, we explore the composite vortex beam generated by collinear superposition of the incident vortex probe and signal fields. It is obvious that the intensity and phase profiles of the composite vortex can be effectively controlled via adjusting the intensity of the control field. Potential applications of our scheme may exist in OAM-based optical communications and optical information processing.
Deep learning-assisted inverse design of nanoparticle-embedded radiative coolers
Authors: Kim Min Ju , Kim June Tae , Hong Mi Jin , Park Sang Wook , Lee Gil Ju
Published: April 2024

Radiative cooling is an energy-efficient technology without consuming power. Depending on their use, radiative coolers (RCs) can be designed to be either solar-transparent or solar-opaque, which requires complex spectral characteristics. Our research introduces a novel deep learning-based inverse design methodology for creating thin-film type RCs. Our deep learning algorithm determines the optimal optical constants, material volume ratios, and particle size distributions for oxide/nitride nanoparticle-embedded polyethylene films. It achieves the desired optical properties for both types of RCs through Mie Scattering and effective medium theory. We also assess the optical and thermal performance of each RCs.
Surrogate gradient learning in spiking networks trained on event-based cytometry dataset
Authors: Gouda Muhammed , Abreu Steven , Bienstman Peter
Published: April 2024

Spiking neural networks (SNNs) are bio-inspired neural networks that - to an extent - mimic the workings of our brains. In a similar fashion, event-based vision sensors try to replicate a biological eye as closely as possible. In this work, we integrate both technologies for the purpose of classifying micro-particles in the context of label-free flow cytometry. We follow up on our previous work in which we used simple logistic regression with binary labels. Although this model was able to achieve an accuracy of over 98%, our goal is to utilize the system for a wider variety of cells, some of which may have less noticeable morphological variations. Therefore, a more advanced machine learning model like the SNNs discussed here would be required. This comes with the challenge of training such networks, since they typically suffer from vanishing gradients. We effectively apply the surrogate gradient method to overcome this issue achieving over 99% classification accuracy on test data for a four-class problem. Finally, rather than treating the neural network as a black box, we explore the dynamics inside the network and make use of that to enhance its accuracy and sparsity.
Polynomial expansion method for full wave three-dimensional analysis of dielectric waveguides and periodic structures
Authors: Arik Kamalodin , Akbari Mahmood
Published: April 2024

In summary, the utilization of Legendre polynomial expansion in the modal analysis of stratified dielectric layers with doubly periodic permittivity profiles offers a departure from conventional methods. This novel approach, grounded in the analytical projection of Maxwell’s equations onto the Hilbert space defined by Legendre polynomials, results in well-behaved algebraic equations. These equations, in turn, facilitate the derivation of propagation constants and electromagnetic field profiles, circumventing issues related to numerical instability and oscillatory behavior. Moreover, the method's adaptability to extend its application to nonperiodic dielectric waveguides through the periodic repetition concept further underscores its versatility and potential impact in electromagnetic field analysis. Finally, to validate the proposed method, we conducted a comparative analysis of three standard test cases against previously reported results in the literature. The comparison showcased a high level of agreement, affirming the accuracy and efficacy of the presented approach.
Two-dimensional beam scanning by tunable photonic spin Hall effect
Authors: Xie Weichao , Lin Tingyu , Zheng Huadan , Yu Jianhui , Zhong Yongchun , Chen Zhe , Zhu Wenguo
Published: April 2024

To the best of our knowledge, a novel tunable photonic spin Hall effect is proposed based on a pair of liquid crystal Pancharatnam-Berry (PB) lenses. Owing to the spin-dependent geometric phases, a PB lens focus or defocus the incident light field according to its spin angular momentum. By cascading two PB lenses with a small gap, the focus and defocus effects can be suppressed, and the transmitted light fields with opposite spin will be deflected toward opposite directions when the two PB lenses have a relative lateral displacement. The deflection angles vary linearly with the displacements, thus double-lines two-dimensional continuous beam scanning is achieved with a scanning angle of 39o × 39° and a beam diverging angle of 0.028o × 0.028°. The scanning beam is used to write different patterns on a 200 nm thick gold film. We believe this beam scanning system can find wide applications ranging from laser processing, Lidar, particle manipulation, to free space optical communications.
Tightly focusing metalens based on the high order Bessel function
Authors: Guo Zhaojin , Wu Xuanguang , Zhou Liang , Li Yanke , Wei Bingyan , Wen Dandan , Li Peng , Zhao Jianlin , Liu Sheng
Published: April 2024

We propose a new, to the best of our knowledge, type of metalens of which the phase profile is extracted from the higher-order Bessel function. A light beam passing through this metalens would focus along the circular trajectory and produces a tightly focusing field. Utilizing phase binarization, we provide a method to design the geometric-phase dielectric metasurface both for phase and polarization modulations. We demonstrate two metalenses for circularly and radially polarized output beams at 633 nm, with the measured 0.737λ and 0.616λ focal spots, respectively. Theoretically, it can realize a super-diffraction-limit spot (0.38λ). This work can extend the way of realizing tightly focused optical devices.
Achieving bi-anisotropic coupling through uniform temporal modulations without inversion symmetry disruption
Authors: Wang Neng , Feng Fanghu , Ping Wang Guo
Published: April 2024

Temporal modulations provide a new approach for realizing metamaterials. In this study, through the imposition of uniform temporal modulations, we achieve two types of reciprocal bi-anisotropic metamaterials. Notably, these achievements do not rely on any spatial modulation, preserving inversion symmetry at any instantaneous time. This stands in sharp contrast to the scenario of traditional bi-anisotropic metamaterials, where the disruption of inversion symmetry by spatial arrangements is necessary. Conditions for realizing nonzero bi-anisotropic coupling are discussed and verified through full-wave simulations. Our work will stimulate research in the field of temporal bi-anisotropic metamaterials, as well as the application of temporal modulations in manipulating photonic spin angular momentum.
Macroscopic entanglement between ferrimagnetic magnons and atoms via crossed optical cavities
Authors: Di Ke , Wang Xi , Xia Huarong , Zhao Yinxue , Liu Yu , Cheng Anyu , Du Jiajia
Published: April 2024

We consider a two-dimensional opto-magnomechanical (OMM) system including two optical cavity modes, a magnon mode, a phonon mode, and a collection of two-level atoms. We show how the stationary entanglement between two-level atoms and magnons can be achieved. The presence of two optical cavities leads the atom–magnon entanglement to be achieved in a wide parameter regime. Furthermore, it is shown that one optical cavity can get entangled with magnons, phonons, and the other optical cavity. The entanglement is robust against thermal noise. The work may find applications in building hybrid quantum networks and quantum information processing.
Open-Source Toolbox for Photographic Characterization of Optical Propagation
Authors: Sørensen Simon , Ulsig Emil , Philip Frederik , Sørensen Frederik , Madsen Magnus , Gardner Asger , Tønning Peter , Thomsen Simon , Gravesen Kevin , Stanton Eric , Volet Nicolas
Published: April 2024

An alternative method for characterizing optical propagation in photonic integrated circuits based on imaging of scattered light is presented and demonstrated for the spectral range of 450-980 nm. The method is applied to waveguide structures of varying widths and is found to be independent of the input coupling. Propagation losses as low as 1.4 dB/cm are measured for spiral alumina waveguides. Using a tunable laser the optical losses are also determined for AlGaAs-on-insulator waveguides at 910-980 nm wavelengths and are compared to cut-back measurements. An open-source toolbox is introduced, allowing for reliable processing of data and estimation of optical propagation losses.
Anomalous Purcell decay of strongly driven inhomogeneous emitters coupled to a cavity
Authors: Solomon Michael T. , Koppenhöfer Martin , Mamaev Mikhail , Ji Cheng , Grant Gregory , Masiulionis Ignas , Sullivan Sean E. , Joseph Heremans F. , Guha Supratik , Awschalom David D. , Clerk Aashish A. , Dibos Alan M.
Published: April 2024

We perform resonant fluorescence lifetime measurements on a nanocavity-coupled erbium ensemble as a function of cavity-laser detuning and pump power. Our measurements reveal an anomalous three-fold suppression of the ensemble Purcell factor at zero cavity detuning and high pump fluence. We capture qualitative aspects of this decay rate suppression using a Tavis–Cummings model of non-interacting spins coupled to a common cavity.
ChatGPT-Enhanced ROC Analysis (CERA): A shiny web tool for finding optimal cutoff points in biomarker analysis
Authors: Agraz Melih , Mantzoros Christos , Karniadakis George Em
Published: April 2024

Diagnostic tests play a crucial role in establishing the presence of a specific disease in an individual. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analyses are essential tools that provide performance metrics for diagnostic tests. Accurate determination of the cutoff point in ROC curve analyses is the most critical aspect of the process. A variety of methods have been developed to find the optimal cutoffs. Although the R programming language provides a variety of package programs for conducting ROC curve analysis and determining the appropriate cutoffs, it typically needs coding skills and a substantial investment of time. Specifically, the necessity for data preprocessing and analysis can present a significant challenge, especially for individuals without coding experience. We have developed the CERA (ChatGPT-Enhanced ROC Analysis) tool, a user-friendly ROC curve analysis web tool using the shiny interface for faster and more effective analyses to solve this problem. CERA is not only user-friendly, but it also interacts with ChatGPT, which interprets the outputs. This allows for an interpreted report generated by R-Markdown to be presented to the user, enhancing the accessibility and understanding of the analysis results.
Exposure of Caralluma tuberculata to biogenic selenium nanoparticles as in vitro rooting agent: Stimulates morpho-physiological and antioxidant defense system
Authors: Ali Amir , Mashwani Zia-ur-Rehman , Raja Naveed Iqbal , Mohammad Sher , Ahmad M. Sheeraz , Luna-Arias Juan Pedro
Published: April 2024

The commercial-scale production of Caralluma tuberculata faces significant challenges due to lower seed viability and sluggish rate of root growth in natural conditions. To overcome these obstacles, using phyto-mediated selenium nanomaterials as an in vitro rooting agent in plant in vitro cultures is a promising approach to facilitate rapid propagation and enhance the production of valuable therapeutic compounds. This study aimed to investigate the impact of phytosynthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on the morphological growth attributes, physiological status, and secondary metabolite fabrication in in vitro propagated Caralluma tuberculata. The results demonstrated that a lower dose of SeNPs (100 μg/L) along with plant growth regulators (IBA 1 mg/L) had an affirmative effect on growth parameters and promoted earliest root initiation (4.6±0.98 days), highest rooting frequency (68.21±5.12%), number of roots (6.3±1.8), maximum fresh weight (710±6.01 mg) and dry weight (549.89±6.77 mg). However, higher levels of SeNPs (200 and 400 μg/L) in the growth media proved detrimental to growth and development. Further, stress caused by SeNPs at 100 μg/L along with PGRs (IBA 1 mg/L) produced a higher level of total chlorophyll contents (32.66± 4.36 μg/ml), while cultures exposed to 200 μg/L SeNPs alone exhibited the maximum amount of proline contents (10.5± 1.32 μg/ml). Interestingly, exposure to 400 μg/L SeNPs induced a stress response in the cultures, leading to increased levels of total phenolic content (3.4 ± 0.052), total flavonoid content (1.8 ± 0.034), and antioxidant activity 82 ± 4.8%). Furthermore, the combination of 100 μg/L SeNPs and plant growth regulators (1 mg/L IBA) led to accelerated enzymatic antioxidant activities, including superoxide dismutase (SOD = 4.4 ± 0.067 U/mg), peroxidase dismutase (POD = 3.3 ± 0.043 U/mg), catalase (CAT = 2.8 ± 0.048 U/mg), and ascorbate peroxidase (APx = 1.6 ± 0.082 U/mg). This is the first report that highlights the efficacy of SeNPs in culture media and presents a promising approach for the commercial propagation of C. tuberculata with a strong antioxidant defense system in vitro.
Influence of pozzolanic addition on strength and microstructure of metakaolin-based concrete
Authors: Bansal Manisha , Bansal Manjeet , Bahrami Alireza , Krishan Bal , Garg Rishav , Özkılıç Yasin Onuralp , Althaqafi Essam
Published: April 2024

The intent of this study is to explore the physical properties and long-term performance of concrete made with metakaolin (MK) as a binder, using microsilica (MS) and nanosilica (NS) as substitutes for a portion of the ordinary Portland cement (OPC) content. The dosage of MS was varied from 5% to 15% for OPC-MK-MS blends, and the dosage of NS was varied from 0.5% to 1.5% for OPC-MK-NS blends. Incorporation of these pozzolans accelerated the hardening process and reduced the flowability, consistency, and setting time of the cement paste. In addition, it produced a denser matrix, improving the strength of the concrete matrix, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The use of MS enhanced the strength by 10.37%, and the utilization of NS increased the strength by 11.48% at 28 days. It also reduced the penetrability of the matrix with a maximum reduction in the water absorption (35.82%) and improved the resistance to the sulfate attack for specimens containing 1% NS in the presence of 10% MK. Based on these results, NS in the presence of MK can be used to obtain cementitious structures with the enhanced strength and durability.
Attention 3D central difference convolutional dense network for hyperspectral image classification
Authors: Ashraf Mahmood , Alharthi Raed , Chen Lihui , Umer Muhammad , Alsubai Shtwai , Eshmawi Ala Abdulmajid
Published: April 2024

Hyperspectral Images (HSI) classification is a challenging task due to a large number of spatial-spectral bands of images with high inter-similarity, extra variability classes, and complex region relationships, including overlapping and nested regions. Classification becomes a complex problem in remote sensing images like HSIs. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have gained popularity in addressing this challenge by focusing on HSI data classification. However, the performance of 2D-CNN methods heavily relies on spatial information, while 3D-CNN methods offer an alternative approach by considering both spectral and spatial information. Nonetheless, the computational complexity of 3D-CNN methods increases significantly due to the large capacity size and spectral dimensions. These methods also face difficulties in manipulating information from local intrinsic detailed patterns of feature maps and low-rank frequency feature tuning. To overcome these challenges and improve HSI classification performance, we propose an innovative approach called the Attention 3D Central Difference Convolutional Dense Network (3D-CDC Attention DenseNet). Our 3D-CDC method leverages the manipulation of local intrinsic detailed patterns in the spatial-spectral features maps, utilizing pixel-wise concatenation and spatial attention mechanism within a dense strategy to incorporate low-rank frequency features and guide the feature tuning. Experimental results on benchmark datasets such as Pavia University, Houston 2018, and Indian Pines demonstrate the superiority of our method compared to other HSI classification methods, including state-of-the-art techniques. The proposed method achieved 97.93% overall accuracy on the Houston-2018, 99.89% on Pavia University, and 99.38% on the Indian Pines dataset with the 25 × 25 window size.
Inclusive growth: Literature review
Authors: Saher Liudmyla , Tabák Ladislav , Lyeonov Serhiy , Vasa László
Published: April 2024

The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of scholarly literature within the domain of inclusive growth. It meticulously categorises diverse approaches aimed at delineating the essence of inclusive growth, encompassing the articulation of principal objectives, and identifying challenges that inclusive growth endeavours to address. Furthermore, to enhance the organization of research and attain a nuanced understanding of prevalent, well-explored, and under-researched themes, the study advocates for a supplementary bibliometric analysis of publications on inclusive growth. Utilizing data extracted from the Scopus and Web of Science databases from 1995 to 2022, this research discerns notable scholarly interest in inclusive growth, particularly among academic communities in the United States, India, and Great Britain. The findings delineate several focal points within the realm of inclusive growth, including the determinants of developmental trajectories, the constituents and metrics of economic expansion, as well as the evaluation and prognostication of its outcomes. Moreover, the study underscores the significance, characteristics, and potential avenues of inclusive growth, alongside the imperative of financial inclusivity and its role in fostering equitable economic development. Additionally, it identifies key components essential for achieving sustainable development objectives, elucidating how inclusive growth initiatives are intricately linked to the mitigation of pervasive societal challenges such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment. By identifying prominent clusters of scholarly discourse, this research facilitates a nuanced comprehension of the most salient themes and issues animating the discourse on inclusive growth, thus providing a valuable foundation for future scholars and policymakers in this crucial area.
Impact of liberalization and globalization on economic growth: Empirical evidence from Türkiye
Authors: Ojaghlou Mortaza , Tercan Canan
Published: April 2024

Globalization, as the process of integration of the world economy, increases international trade, capital movements, and technology transfer. This study examines the relationship between globalization and economic growth in the 1974-2022 period in Türkiye. In this study, the ARDL Bound method was used for cointegration analysis and the DCC-EGARCH model was used to capture time-varying relationships. The results of the ARDL-Bound model show a positive and long-term correlation between globalization and economic growth in Türkiye. According to the results of the DCC model, there has been a generally positive relationship between economic growth and the globalization index since 1984. Türkiye's economy has generally been positively influenced by economic liberalization processes and globalization. However, the export-oriented growth strategy seems to have lost its effect after 2005. Moreover, the globalization benefits of foreign direct investment were only evident between 2000 and 2009, after which the positive relationship decreased. In the interest of attracting FDI and promoting sustainable economic growth, Türkiye should review its investment-friendly policies and develop strategies aimed at long-term benefits.
Central Neuromodulators in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Why, How, and When
Authors: Hanna-Jairala Ignacio , Drossman Douglas A.
Published: April 2024

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is responsive to treatments using central neuromodulators. Central neuromodulators work by enhancing the synaptic transmission of 5-hydroxytryptamine, noradrenalin, and dopamine, achieving a slower regulation or desensitization of their postsynaptic receptors. Central neuromodulators act on receptors along the brain-gut axis, so they are useful in treating psychiatric comorbidities, modifying gut motility, improving central downregulation of visceral signals, and enhancing neurogenesis in patients with IBS. Choosing a central neuromodulator for treating IBS should be according to the pharmacological properties and predominant symptoms. The first-line treatment for pain management in IBS is using tricyclic antidepressants. An alternative for pain management is the serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are useful when symptoms of anxiety and hypervigilance are dominant but are not helpful for treating abdominal pain. The predominant bowel habit is helpful when choosing a neuromodulator to treat IBS; selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors help constipation, not pain, but may cause diarrhea; tricyclic antidepressants help diarrhea but may cause constipation. A clinical response may occur in 6–8 weeks, but long-term treatment (usually 6–12 months) is required after the initial response to prevent relapse. Augmentation therapy may be beneficial when the therapeutic effect of the first agent is incomplete or associated with side effects. It is recommended to reduce the dose of the first agent and add a second complementary treatment. This may include an atypical antipsychotic or brain-gut behavioral treatment. When tapering central neuromodulators, the dose should be reduced slowly over 4 weeks but may take longer when discontinuation effects occur.
Ball-Valve Syndrome Secondary to Large Fundic Adenoma
Authors: Kim Hyun Jae , Fetz Andrew , Sanders David , Woo Emile , Lam Eric
Published: April 2024

Gastroduodenal intussusception is a rare presentation in adults. A mass lesion in the stomach typically acts as a lead point that invaginates into the pylorus and duodenum causing intussusception. In a subset of these cases, episodic symptoms of obstruction occur because of intermittent prolapse of the lesion, termed “ball-valve syndrome.” We present a 73-year-old woman with intermittent abdominal pain and nausea who was discovered to have gastroduodenal intussusception secondary to a large prolapsing fundic adenoma through the pylorus and into the duodenum. The case highlights this rare complication from gastric lesions along with the importance of surgical intervention for definitive management.
Tobacco smoking, e-cigarette and thyroid: what are the risks of thyroid disorders
Authors: Belovalova I. M. , Shugurova E. S. , Korchagina M. O. , Borkhoeva T. N. , Sheremeta M. S.
Published: April 2024

Tobacco smoking has been a global health problem for many years. It has especially worsened since the mass production of tobacco products. Tobacco smoking provokes various diseases, including endocrine diseases, and contributes to their progression. It is now known about the role of genetic predisposition to the development of thyroid pathology and the potential role of various environmental factors in the manifestation of thyroid diseases. Along with iodine intake, tobacco smoking is a significant risk factor affecting the functional status and volume of the thyroid gland. The introduction of electronic cigarettes as an alternative to tobacco products has raised a legitimate question: what effect do they have on thyroid status? The current literature review highlights current knowledge on the effects of smoking on the thyroid, including its relationship to changes in thyroid function and the development and progression of thyroid disorders.
Effects of alternative fertilization on common bean crops regarding productivity and nutritional levels
Authors: Silva Tiago Silveira da , Carvalho Ivan Ricardo , Loro Murilo Vieira , Pradebon Leonardo Cesar , Almeida Helaine Claire  de , Uhde Leonir Terezinha
Published: April 2024

Considering the need for more information about productivity increases and nutritional improvement of soils, the present study evaluated the effects of alternative fertilization on grain yield and nutritional levels of bean crops. It was a randomized block study with four treatments and five replicates. The treatments were the absence of nitrogen fertilization, fertilizer use, chicken litter, and cattle manure. Organic fertilization provided lower variations in soil water availability during flowering and grain filling and increased nutrient concentrations, especially phosphorus and potassium. Chicken litter promoted the highest means for the number of legumes, the number of legumes on branches, the number of six-grain legumes, the mass of a thousand grains, grain mass per plant, and the normalized green-red difference index. However, the two organic fertilizers had significantly higher differences from chemical and no fertilization, showing that organic fertilizer applications must occur when nutrient availability coincides with the phenological stages essential for producing these fertilizers. High yields combined with favorable rainfall conditions occurred during crop development, as high soil moisture allowed faster mineralization of essential organic fertilizer nutrients, directly affecting yield. Pearson’s linear correlation allowed a better understanding of the participation of each plant trait in productivity, and the highest grain yield occurred with organic fertilization.
Avaliação baseada em tarefas
Authors: Morais Ana Lúcia Ferreira de , Borges-Almeida Vanessa
Published: April 2024

Este artigo tem o objetivo de discutir características da avaliação baseada em tarefas em contextos de aprendizagem de língua estrangeira para identificar necessidades de letramento em avaliação de professores. O trabalho relata os resultados de uma investigação conduzida num centro de línguas público que recentemente havia adotado a metodologia de avaliação por tarefas. Fundamenta-se na literatura sobre ensino de línguas baseado em tarefas (Willis; Willis, 2007; Ellis, 2000; Janowska, 2014), avaliação de desempenho (McNamara, 1996; Coombe, 2018) e avaliação para/como aprendizagem (Black et al., 2003; Brookhart, 2013; Carless, 2007; Coombe; Folse; Hubley, 2007; Earl, 2013). Participaram da pesquisa três professoras que lecionavam diferentes níveis de proficiência na escola.  Os dados foram coletados por meio de observações de aulas, notas de campo, entrevistas e análise documental. Todos os instrumentos avaliativos utilizados pelas participantes foram analisados quanto a suas características, e os procedimentos empregados foram observados durante a totalidade das aulas lecionadas no período de um semestre letivo. Os resultados indicam o emprego de poucas tarefas de fato, escassez de autenticidade, e oferta de feedback essencialmente corretivo. Em decorrência disso, permitem apontar a necessidade de investimento no letramento em avaliação de professores de línguas para que possam refinar seus conhecimentos sobre tarefas e aprimorar suas práticas avaliativas, de modo a desenvolverem práticas, não apenas mais válidas e confiáveis, como também com maior potencial para orientar a aprendizagem.
QUALIDADE AMBIENTAL URBANA E MORBIDADE POR ASMA DE PACIENTES PEDIÁTRICOS EM CENÁRIO DE EMERGÊNCIAS CLIMÁTICAS: O CASO DO BAIRRO ÁGUA VERDE (CURITIBA)
Authors: Fonseca Murilo  Noli da , Roque Ketlyn da Cunha , Silva Luciene Pimentel da
Published: April 2024

A cobertura e o uso da terra são importantes elementos da paisagem urbana. A compreensão de suas dinâmicas e sua espacialização permitem evidenciar os limites e aptidões do ambiente para a saúde humana. Portanto, esta pesquisa busca avaliar a qualidade ambiental de áreas urbanas e a sua relação com doenças respiratórias em crianças e adolescentes. Para tanto, foram realizados o mapeamento e a classificação da cobertura da terra e da qualidade ambiental urbana do bairro Água Verde, localizado na região central de Curitiba/Paraná. Comparou-se os resultados com a distribuição espacial dos casos de asma. Os resultados indicam que a maior parcela dos pacientes está localizada em áreas classificadas como de pior qualidade ambiental, caracterizados por edificações de até e acima de quatro pavimentos e sem vegetação expressiva. Embora sejam ambientes propícios a maior temperatura e amplitude térmica, há uma relação dos casos com a temperatura baixa no inverno e outono, e a poluição. Logo, sugere-se medidas voltadas à infraestrutura verde urbana, o aumento de pavimentações permeáveis e o uso de soluções baseadas na natureza.
Pipeline Disruption: The Impact of COVID-19 on the Next Generation of Teachers
Authors: Scheopner Torres Aubrey , D'Souza Lisa
Published: April 2024

This qualitative study aims to provide insight into why teacher candidates, interested in pursuing K-12 teaching, made the decision to leave their traditional teacher preparation programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers utilized sociocultural theory as the framework to ground the research. The study finds the educational disruption caused by the pandemic added a layer of complexity to candidates’ experiences, including missed opportunities, limited clinical experience, and a general sense of uncertainty, which altered teacher candidates’ outlook on the teaching profession, impacted their education journeys, and ultimately shifted their immediate career trajectories. The results from this study indicate that clinical experiences are an important predictor of whether teacher candidates remain in their preparation programs. With this research study, we hope to support the development of a more robust teacher pipeline.
Identifying and Navigating the Barriers of Parental Involvement in Early Childhood Education
Authors: Wildmon Mark , Anthony Kenneth , Kamau Zion
Published: April 2024

Parental involvement in early childhood education significantly impacts children's academic, socio-emotional, and behavioral outcomes. Extensive research indicates that parental involvement plays a more influential role in a child's academic success compared to socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, or educational background. However, a noticeable gap exists between the desired and actual levels of parental involvement, often attributed to identifiable barriers. This study aims to delineate these obstacles and proposes cost-effective, actionable steps to overcome them. We introduce specific strategies that enhance the home-school partnership and recommend that schools actively teach and promote these activities. These practices highlight the dual importance of parental support for school-based learning and school support for home-based activities.
Crônica e Fotografia em Contextos de Desenvolvimento de Escrita Criativa:
Authors: Verdejo Pedro , Dantas Rosa Inaiá Isis
Published: April 2024

Constitui-se, como objetivo do presente trabalho, uma investigação crítico-analítica de um projeto de intervenção aplicado em uma escola pública de Goiânia, cujo objetivo residiu na promoção de práticas de uma escrita criativa dimensionada em aspectos sociais e de valorização da realidade-mundo dos alunos, a partir dos termos estabelecidos por Franchi (1991). Nesse sentido, utilizou-se da Crônica, entendida como gênero social, em interface multimidiática com a fotografia, aos fins de estruturar uma proposição interventiva que, para além de mobilizar conhecimentos linguísticos em seu uso pragmático, propiciasse potenciais de expressão crítica e autônoma nos contextos escolares. Para além da produção criativa, promoveu-se, ainda, como última etapa interventiva, uma circulação social dos textos produzidos, evitando-se a prática de “simulação escolar”, em que textos são produzidos ao mero exercício interno. A análise resultante desse processo interventivo, cerne deste trabalho, indica a importante consideração de práticas de escrita criativa na constituição de um ensino crítico da língua. Os desdobramentos de aquisição de conhecimentos linguísticos – como o uso das figuras de linguagem – e teórico-literários – como a mediação estética da literatura frente ao mundo – demonstraram-se não somente eficazes do ponto de vista “conteudista”-escolar, como também altamente emancipatórios em termos de formação.
Uma Análise Bibliométrica sobre Artigos Científicos na Área de Eólica, Weibull, Hidrogênio e o Software Homer Baseada na Scopus
Authors: Andrade Carla , Moura de Oliveira Mona Lisa , Moura Carneiro Franciso Olímpio , Valente Bueno André , Leite Lobo Fernanda
Published: April 2024

O hidrogênio verde tem se tornado o centro das atenções no cenário mundial, com sua eficiência elevada e versatilidade de produção, onde cada vez mais estudos são produzidos relacionados a este tema. Uma das fontes renováveis responsáveis pela produção do hidrogênio verde é a energia eólica. E o vento é o fator determinante para a produção dessa energia e pela sua viabilidade, pois a potência gerada por uma turbina varia com o cubo da velocidade do vento, e uma das distribuições estatísticas utilizadas para analisar o comportamento do vento em uma região é a distribuição de Weibull. Além disso, existe o software que realiza o estudo da viabilidade de implementação de um parque eólico e da produção do hidrogênio, denominado Homer Pro. Sendo assim, esse trabalho visa analisar artigos relacionados com a energia eólica, o hidrogênio, o software Homer Pro, e a distribuição de Weibull para entender como está o desenvolvimento de pesquisa nessa área tão promissora. Para isso, realizou-se uma busca na base Scopus, considerando algumas palavras-chave e depois fez-se se análise desse conjunto de dados encontrados através da ferramenta Bibliometrix. O objetivo do presente trabalho trata de identificar a evolução do tema e mostrar a posição do Brasil.