bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is cutaneous profile perception an indicator of skeletal class III malformation treatment plan? A cross sectional Study
Authors: HATOUM Ibrahim , NASSAR Rania
Published: October 2024

Background: The treatment choice in adults with skeletal class III malocclusion represents a challenging task for orthodontists, especially in borderline cases. With the growth spurt being surpassed, the clinician is left between two treatment options: orthodontic camouflage or orthognathic surgery. Around the years, many studies tried to uncover a guide model which enables practitioners to distinguish between skeletal class III that can be appropriately treated by orthodontics alone and those needing surgical intervention.
Aim: The aim of this study is to demonstrate the importance of cutaneous profile perception as a subjective decisive parameter in the treatment of borderline skeletal class III adult patients and, as a secondary objective, to compare it with the most decisive cephalometric parameters found in previous studies.
Material and methods: Among 28 skeletal class III patients found in the Saint Joseph university orthodontics department’s data base, 10 different adult patients: 4 males and 6 females have met the inclusion criteria. Three types of data have been gathered from each patient: lateral cephalograms, profile photographs and the treatment that the patient underwent. To understand the significance of profile perception in the treatment plan for these patients, all of the 10 patients profile photographs were put in a survey that was sent to 3 groups of people: orthodontists, dentists, and laypersons. Each participant should evaluate based only on his/her perception of the photo if the patient should be treated by orthodontic-surgical treatment or if an orthodontic camouflage alone is enough. In addition, the efficiency of profile perception will be compared with the efficiency of the most decisive cephalometric parameters found in literature: ANB angle=-4°, Witts appraisal =-5.8mm.
Results: A total of 158 participants were included in this study. When we compare what participants chose based on profile perception with real treatment, 75% of orthodontists have correctly classified the patients. Lower rates were noted for dentists and laypeople, respectively 65% and 64.5%. If we also consider the cephalometric values found in literature (ANB=-4°, Witts appraisal=-5.8mm) as the correct treatment that should have been done, 70% of the patients were correctly treated in our faculty.
Conclusion: There are no cephalometric or clinical golden standards to decide between surgical intervention or orthodontic camouflage in adult patients presenting skeletal class III malformation. Cephalometric values are very useful but insufficient tools even when many parameters are combined. Both objective and subjective criteria should be taken into consideration to individualize each treatment plan according to each patient.
Comparative Study of Prophylactic Vs Conventional Phenylephrine Administration in Preventing Spinal Anaesthesia-Induced Hypotension in Elective caesarean Section Patients: A Quasi Experimental Trial
Authors:   Department of Pharmacology, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan, Taskeen Bushra , Riaz Sonia ,   Department of Anesthesia, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan, Ahmer Maryam ,   Department of Anesthesia, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan, Zaidi Urooj ,   Department of Anesthesia, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan, Alizai Hassam Nasir Khan ,   Department of Anesthesia, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan, Abrar Naila ,   Department of Pharmacology, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan, Khan Amanat ,   Department of Anesthesia, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan, Khan Muhammad Munir Ahmad ,   Department of Anesthesia, HITEC IMS, Taxila, NUMS Pakistan
Published: October 2024

Objective: To determine the prophylactic effect of phenylephrine in patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia in comparison to the conventional group. Study design: Quasi experimental trial. Place and duration of study: HIT Hospital Taxila in the period of 6 months. Materials and methods: This quasi-experimental trial was conducted in HIT Hospital. Total 68 females were divided into two groups: Control group and Experimental group. Each group consisted of 34 patients aged between 20 to 40 years. The patients were scheduled for elective cesarean section deliveries under spinal anaesthesia. All patients of the experimental group were given prophylactic dose of phenylephrine 100mcg diluted in normal saline after undergoing spinal anaesthesia before the start of procedure. Control group patients were only given normal saline as a placebo after undergoing spinal anaesthesia before the start of procedure. Control group patients were given phenylephrine as conventional treatment only if they experienced hypotension during the procedure. Results: Among the patients in the experimental group none experienced hypotension. Their blood pressure remained fairly constant in the normal range. In the control group, 4 out of 34 patients (11.7%) had their blood pressure dropped below the cutoff point of 90/60 mmHg. Conclusions: Our results show that a prophylactic dosage regimen i.e., 100mcg of phenylephrine is effective in controlling spinal -anaesthesia -induced hypotension in patients undergoing Caesarean-section. In comparison with conventional group where hypotension occurs only in few patients.
« What are you hungry for? » Le cannibalisme dans Grave de Julia Ducournau (2016)
Authors: Fournier Coline
Published: October 2024

La cinéaste Julia Ducournau évoque la thématique cannibale dans son premier long-métrage Grave, sélectionné au Festival de Cannes en 2016. À travers le parcours de deux soeurs en école vétérinaire, elle rénove l’imaginaire et l’iconographie du mythe cannibale, tout en s’ancrant dans la lignée d’un cinéma de genre qui s’est construit sur la chair sanglante et à vif des personnages cannibales. Dans cet article, il s’agit d’abord de circoncire ce que fait Julia Ducournau du cannibalisme, afin de voir comment elle met en scène et à l’écran le geste et les rituels de la pratique de l’entre-dévoration, d’autant plus troublante quand elle est intra-familiale. La réalisatrice s’éloigne pourtant des stéréotypes de l’image cannibale par le biais de ses deux personnages de soeurs, Alexia et Justine : cannibales, elles sont aussi au coeur d’une histoire de famille et de bizutage, et doivent s’arracher l’une à l’autre. Le cannibalisme a enfin une fonction dans le film de Ducournau : entre élément de contexte et métaphore de la mutation adolescente, il catalyse la philosophie du devenir centrale à l’oeuvre de la réalisatrice.
Unveiling discrimination
Authors: Hardgrove Anne
Published: October 2024

This article examines the historical and legal marginalization of the hijra, a third-gender community in South Asia, with a particular focus on the Indian subcontinent. Utilizing a postcolonial theoretical framework, the article analyzes contemporary lawfare dynamics between hijra and transgender activists in India and Pakistan. The study integrates gender and class analysis to explore key legal developments, drawing on examples from both colonial and contemporary legislation in India and Pakistan. The article argues that despite increased legal recognition of transgender rights, hijra remain marginalized as transgender activists seek acceptance as members of the middle class, often at the expense of hijra communities. By exploring legislative interventions and the narratives around activist endeavors, lawfare is analyzed at two levels, legislative and social, demonstrating how transgender activism can perpetuate discrimination against hijras in both Pakistan and India. The analyses underscore the complexity of alliances within genderqueer groups in postcolonial South Asian societies, challenging the assumption that these groups are natural allies. Ultimately, the article reveals the complex intersection of gender, class, and legal strategies, critiquing the role of lawfare in perpetuating social divisions and calling for more inclusive approaches to gender rights.
Decoding the identity of rare tumors
Authors: Yuan Qingchen , Kaur Prabhjot , Guryanova Olga A
Published: October 2024

Solitary fibrous tumors have gene expression signatures similar to those of neuroendocrine tumors.
Large-scale characterization of drug mechanism of action using proteome-wide thermal shift assays
Authors: Van Vranken Jonathan G , Li Jiaming , Mintseris Julian , Wei Ting-Yu , Sniezek Catherine M , Gadzuk-Shea Meagan , Gygi Steven P , Schweppe Devin K
Published: October 2024

In response to an ever-increasing demand of new small molecules therapeutics, numerous chemical and genetic tools have been developed to interrogate compound mechanism of action. Owing to its ability to approximate compound-dependent changes in thermal stability, the proteome-wide thermal shift assay has emerged as a powerful tool in this arsenal. The most recent iterations have drastically improved the overall efficiency of these assays, providing an opportunity to screen compounds at a previously unprecedented rate. Taking advantage of this advance, we quantified more than one million thermal stability measurements in response to multiple classes of therapeutic and tool compounds (96 compounds in living cells and 70 compounds in lysates). When interrogating the dataset as a whole, approximately 80% of compounds (with quantifiable targets) caused a significant change in the thermal stability of an annotated target. There was also a wealth of evidence portending off-target engagement despite the extensive use of the compounds in the laboratory and/or clinic. Finally, the combined application of cell-and lysate-based assays, aided in the classification of primary (direct ligand binding) and secondary (indirect) changes in thermal stability. Overall, this study highlights the value of these assays in the drug development process by affording an unbiased and reliable assessment of compound mechanism of action.
NE contribution to rebooting unconsciousness caused by midazolam
Authors: Gu LeYuan , Shao WeiHui , Liu Lu , Xu Qing , Wang YuLing , Gu JiaXuan , Yang Yue , Zhang ZhuoYue , Wu YaXuan , Shen Yue , Yu Qian , Lian XiTing , Ma Haixiang , Zhang YuanLi , Zhang HongHai
Published: October 2024

The advent of midazolam holds profound implications for modern clinical practice. The hypnotic and sedative effects of midazolam afford it broad clinical applicability. However, the specific mechanisms underlying the modulation of altered consciousness by midazolam remain elusive. Herein, using pharmacology, optogenetics, chemogenetics, fiber photometry, and gene knockdown, we revealed the role of locus coeruleus (LC)-ventrolateral preoptic nucleus (VLPO) noradrenergic neural circuit in regulating midazolam-induced altered consciousness. This effect was mediated by α1 adrenergic receptors. Moreover, gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor type A (GABAA-R) represents a mechanistically crucial binding site in the LC for midazolam. Our findings will provide novel insights into the neural circuit mechanisms underlying the recovery of consciousness after midazolam administration and will help guide the timing of clinical dosing and propose effective intervention targets for timely recovery from midazolam-induced loss of consciousness.
Electrophysiological dynamics of salience, default mode, and frontoparietal networks during episodic memory formation and recall: A multi-experiment iEEG replication
Authors: Das Anup , Menon Vinod
Published: October 2024

Dynamic interactions between large-scale brain networks underpin human cognitive processes, but their electrophysiological mechanisms remain elusive. The triple network model, encompassing the salience (SN), default mode (DMN), and frontoparietal (FPN) networks, provides a framework for understanding these interactions. We analyzed intracranial EEG recordings from 177 participants across four diverse episodic memory experiments, each involving encoding as well as recall phases. Phase transfer entropy analysis revealed consistently higher directed information flow from the anterior insula (AI), a key SN node, to both DMN and FPN nodes. This directed influence was significantly stronger during memory tasks compared to resting-state, highlighting the AI’s task-specific role in coordinating large-scale network interactions. This pattern persisted across externally-driven memory encoding and internally-governed free recall. Control analyses using the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) showed an inverse pattern, with DMN and FPN exerting higher influence on IFG, underscoring the AI’s unique role. We observed task-specific suppression of high-gamma power in the posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus node of the DMN during memory encoding, but not recall. Crucially, these results were replicated across all four experiments spanning verbal and spatial memory domains with high Bayes replication factors. Our findings advance understanding of how coordinated neural network interactions support memory processes, highlighting the AI’s critical role in orchestrating large-scale brain network dynamics during both memory encoding and retrieval. By elucidating the electrophysiological basis of triple network interactions in episodic memory, our study provides insights into neural circuit dynamics underlying memory function and offer a framework for investigating network disruptions in memory-related disorders.
Humor and conflict in the Global South
Authors: Hoefel Diego , Capelotti João Paulo , Date Rujuta
Published: October 2024

This special issue focusses on humour studies scholarship from and about the Global South. It addresses a critical gap of underrepresentation, as identified in a previous ISHS conference and explored in subsequent panels. The issue brings together diverse contributions that examine urgent and emerging questions in Africa, Asia, and South America, highlighting howhumour interacts with socio-political dynamics, cultural tensions, and historical contexts in these regions. By shedding light on these perspectives, this collection seeks to broaden the discourse in humour studies and encourage deeper engagement with global voices and experiences.
Mimicking power
Authors: Madenga Florence Zivaishe
Published: October 2024

This article explores performances of satire as a form of journalism in Zimbabwe by analysing performances by satirists who mimic to mock journalistic conventions and political authorities. Through analyses of YouTube videos, the article explores the ways in which satire as journalism is visualised. Onscreen, satirists mimic the gestures, mannerisms and aesthetic objects connected to both political figures and state journalists on the state-run television station for ridicule. This paper argues that the parodying and mimicking of aesthetics of authority legitimises and professionalises satire as journalism, even as it seeks to critique notions of journalistic authority in an authoritarian state. Through analyses of three Zimbabwean satire shows on YouTube, the paper finds that, while satirists mimic journalistic practices and journalistic authority with the goal of mocking state media and the censorial state, a closer reading of their practices shows that they themselves become legitimate news tellers. This kind of satire plays with familiar broadcasting television aesthetics to signal authority, providing current news and otherwise censored critique.
Leo Lins’ stand-up comedy routines
Authors: Capelotti João Paulo
Published: October 2024

When one of Brazil’s most controversial stand-up comedians faced criminal charges, some thought he was a victim of censorship while others thought he was facing the legal consequences of racist, prejudiced speech. The article will shed light on the case brought against him, from the district court to the Supreme Court, analysing the rulings and the alleged censorship, which, according to the defendant, was imposed by the courts.
Healers: Who are They?
Authors:   Department of Folkloristics, Estonian Literary Museum, Tartu, Estonia, Kõiva Mare
Published: October 2024

The article discusses changes in healers’ healing tradition, explanatory models, use of written and published traditions. During the past century, healers used and integrated knowledge from different schools. Another significant trend rising to the fore highlights the importance of local folk medicine, which emphasises traditional values and creates novel cultural interpretations. To characterise the changes, the article introduces four healers, ranging from a half-mythic witch-herder to the healers-innovators of medical methods and local culture.
Avaliação do comportamento mecânico de concretos autoadensáveis reforçados com fibras de aço: um estudo de caso
Authors: Dias Marcelo de Oliveira , Ávila Fábio Grisolia de , Saraiva Rebeca Montenegro Dias de Carvalho
Published: October 2024

O concreto autoadensável fibroso (CAAF) representa um significativo avanço na tecnologia do concreto aplicado à indústria da construção civil. Este material inovador oferece diversas vantagens, sobretudo em sua fase fresca, otimizando o preenchimento de espaços vazios por meio de seu próprio peso, superando altas taxas de armadura e resistindo à segregação sem a necessidade de vibração. Tal característica promove melhorias no acabamento final, reduz a necessidade de mão de obra, e incrementa a produtividade e a segurança no canteiro de obras. Para alcançar esses resultados, foram necessárias adaptações e modificações, bem como ajustes nos procedimentos e métodos de dosagem para se adequar ao nosso laboratório. As formulações do CAAF apresentam propriedades reológicas distintas em comparação com os concretos convencionais, incorporando elevadas concentrações de aditivos químicos e minerais, além da aplicação de métodos de ensaio diferenciados. A introdução de fibras na matriz de concreto contribui para a melhoria de suas propriedades mecânicas e a redução da fissuração. O objetivo deste estudo consiste em analisar o CAAF, examinando seu histórico, vantagens, processo de desenvolvimento, componentes constituintes, métodos de ensaio, aplicações e classificação. A pesquisa abrange uma revisão bibliográfica e a avaliação da resistência média do concreto após 28 dias de cura, certificando-se da robustez do material. Este trabalho visa contribuir para o entendimento mais aprofundado do CAAF e sua potencial aplicabilidade na construção civil, promovendo avanços significativos na área.
Artificial intelligence in industrial operations management: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Nunes Érica Vitória Almeida , Pinto Américo Chalupa Ramos , Passos Inaray de Sousa , Costa Amanda Gabrielly , Goveia Tamires Gabriela Silva , Fernandes Reimison Moreira , Alves Camila Soares
Published: October 2024

Considering the exponential growth of research on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in industrial operations management, this study aims to map the scientific landscape through a bibliometric analysis. The research employed data from the Web of Science, focusing on key terms such as "AI," "industrial operations," and "management." Using VOSviewer, co-occurrence networks and citation analyses were generated to identify research trends and gaps. The results reveal significant contributions from countries like the United States and China, emphasizing AI's role in enhancing efficiency and innovation in industries. The findings provide a foundation for future research and practical implementation strategies in industrial operations.
Geração de quadros de horários para estudantes de medicina: um estudo de caso em uma universidade no sul do Brasil
Authors: Sganzerla Alisson Michel , Funke Edson , Siluk Julio Cezar Mairesse , Araújo Olinto Cesar Bassi de
Published: October 2024

Este trabalho apresenta um estudo de caso sobre a elaboração de um quadro de horários para um curso de medicina na região Sul do Brasil. Especificamente, o estudo foca no agendamento de aulas práticas para grupos de alunos de uma mesma turma, levando em consideração a limitação de espaço nos locais de prática. Os grupos de alunos podem ser divididos ou fracionados conforme a necessidade. Um modelo Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) é proposto para determinar os agendamentos, com foco na minimização de três critérios de qualidade estabelecidos pela instituição de ensino: (i) a quantidade de agendamentos com fracionamento dos grupos, (ii) o tempo necessário para cada grupo concluir cada disciplina, e (iii) o período consecutivo sem aulas da mesma disciplina para cada grupo. Seis experimentos computacionais foram realizados e os resultados obtidos demonstram que é possível obter uma redução de aproximadamente 91,35% no número de fracionamentos em comparação com o processo manual, que pode levar semanas para a mesma tarefa.
Design para experiência em museus: o uso da linguagem simples como recurso de acessibilidade para a pessoa idosa
Authors: Pereira Cristiano da Cunha , Silva Tânia Luisa Koltermann , Cardoso Eduardo
Published: October 2024

Instituições museais vêm desenvolvendo iniciativas para promover o compartilhamento de experiências, o conhecimento e o convívio social, tornando esses espaços destinos ideais para o público idoso. O objetivo desse estudo é verificar a experiência do público idoso por meio do uso da Linguagem Simples como recurso de acessibilidade em museus, aplicada a textos expositivos. Para tanto, busca-se referências em áreas como Comunicação Museológica, Linguagem Simples, Design para Experiência, Design Emocional, entre outras. A pesquisa caracteriza-se como um estudo aplicado, a partir da avaliação e verificação da experiência do usuário em museus, por meio da leitura dos textos expositivos. Neste contexto, foram utilizados os Emocards para caracterizar e compreender a relação do sujeito (idoso) – meio (museu) – objeto (texto expositivo). Como resultados, foi possível identificar e categorizar, por meio dos Emocards, as respostas emocionais dos sujeitos da pesquisa (idosos) frente aos textos expositivos (objeto) do Memorial do Rio Grande do Sul.
Eco-friendly Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Elephantorrhiza elephantina: Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Surrogate Models
Authors: Chipato W E , Chifamba J
Published: October 2024

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively-drug resistant (XDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) strains have scampered efforts to arrest the tuberculosis (TB) pandemic due to treatment failures based on current drugs. The need for novel therapeutics has never been more urgent. Research is leaning towards alternative composite antimicrobials such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Elephantorrhiza elephantina (E. elephantina) is an indigenous Southern African rhizomatous plant which has been used for eons in African traditional medicine for the management of TB. The purpose of this study was to biosynthesize and characterize AgNps using E. elephantina, and to evaluate their antimicrobial effectiveness against surrogate MTB species. The study also sought to screen for the participating secondary metabolites in E. elephantina acting as bio reducing, capping and stabilising agents; and to determine the toxicity of the lyophilised root extract in vivo. Qualitative phytochemical screening techniques confirmed the presence of bioactive secondary metabolites with functional groups capable of mediating in the biosynthesis of AgNPs. UV-Vis spectrometry established the identity of the nanostructures as AgNPs. Transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering confirmed the AgNPs to have an average size of 44 nm, with spherical and cubic morphologies. The biosynthesised AgNPs were potent inhibitors of the model MTB species with an MIC of 19.53 µg/mL, and inhibition zones of 20mm and 18mm against Mycolicibacterium aurum and Mycolicibacterium smegmatis respectively at their MICs. Oral toxicity evaluations based on OECD guideline 425 determined the LD50 of the lyophilised E. elephantina root extract to be safe above 4000mg/kg body weight. The study concluded that biosynthesized AgNPs from E. elephantina root extract, using a one-pot green-synthesis technique, were both safe and effective, offering a promising alternative therapeutic strategy for combating multidrug-resistant TB.
Effect of Organic Nutrient Sources on Growth, Seed Yield and Seed Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Chinese Pink
Authors: Sharma Shivani , Thakur K S , Singh Akanksha , Garg Jayesh , Kaushal Anubha , Sharma Anu
Published: October 2024

Seed is the ultimate economic input in any crop production programme. Two field experiments were conducted to study the effect of organic inputs on seed production of radish at Organic Block of Department of Vegetable Science, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP) during Rabi season of 2019-20 & 2020-21. Various combinations of organic and liquid manures were replicated thrice in the form of twelve treatments in Randomized Block Design (RBD) Factorial. The pooled data of two years revealed that treatment with Vermicompost @ 8 t/ha + Jeevamrit @ 10 per cent was rated as best treatment for majority of characters like days to 50 per cent initiation of bolting (61.00), days to 50 per cent flowering (93.33), number of primary branches per plant (11.13), plant height (171.50 cm), pod length (5.82 cm), number of seeds per pod (5.01), seed yield per plot (225.25 g) & hectare (417.13 kg) and seed quality parameters like 1000 seed weight (12.02 g), seed germination (97.03 %), seedling length (28.26 cm), seedling dry weight (8.87 mg), seed vigour index-I (2742.07) and seed vigour index-II (860.42). Vermicompost along with jeevamrit recorded 61.41 per cent increase in yield over control. Hence application of vermicompost @ 8 t/ha + jeevamrit @ 10 per cent can be recommended for getting higher seed yield and better growth for organic seed production of radish.
Utilization of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi for the Efficiency Development of Lead (Pb) Metal Absorption and Growth of Hanjuang Plants (Cordyline fruticosa)
Authors: Hartanto Nur , Zulkarnain  , Wardani Herlinda Dwi
Published: October 2024

Contamination of Pb metal into the soil is an environmental problem that has a serious impact on living things, so it needs to be addressed through phytoremediation, one of which is using hanjuang plants. Plant roots in symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can increase plant growth and the phytoremediation ability of plants growing in polluted soil. This research aims to determine the effect of AMF application on the growth of hanjuang plants and the ability of hanjuang roots to absorb Pb metal. The research design used a single treatment with a Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) of 4 doses of AMF with 6 replications, namely control; 10 g polybag-1; 20 g polybag-1; and 30 g polybag-1. Planting was carried out for 8 weeks to see the growth and planting of hanjuang and the efficiency of Pb absorption in plant roots. The results showed that AMF had a significant effect on plant height aged 5 to 8 weeks, plant biomass, root wet weight, and root dry weight, but had no significant effect on the efficiency of Pb absorption in the roots of hanjuang plants. An AMF dose of 30 g polybag-1 provides the best results for the growth of hanjuang plants.
Conservation Tillage's Relevance in Potato Production: Improving Soil Quality and Growth Performance
Authors: Begum Mahima , Barua Hiranya Jyoti , Kandali Gayatri Goswami , Sutradhar Pranjit , Dutta Dimpi
Published: October 2024

In the conventional system, potato crop is grown under intensive tillage along with use of high inputs that led to deterioration of soil health and environment.  Hence, practicing of intensive tillage create hindrance for accommodating a second crop immediately after harvesting of rice.  That’s why in many parts of India, rice stubble burning is a common practice done by farmers to advance the time of planting. Thus, rice stubble burning which is accountable for the emission of CO2 considered as a serious issue in most of the rice growing areas. Considering the farmer’s benefit as well as soil health and environment, conservation tillage i.e., zero/minimum tillage could be one of the vital alternative options that could help to overcome the problem associated with conventional tillage. Therefore, an attempt has been made to interpret the findings of conservation tillage on performance of potato crop and its subsequent effect on soil health. Results showed variable response on crop performances due to conservation tillage, but improved the soil health and quality by increasing the soil organic carbon and nutrient availability.
Trends, Motivations and Complications of Body Piercing among Undergraduate Students in a University in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: O. Oluwole Temitayo , N. Okunbor Hilary , C. Okangba Chika , I. Otaigbe Idemudia , U. Nwadike Victor , Babatunde Tayo , A. Shonekan Opeyemi. , B. Akeredolu Folashade , C. Omeonu Azubuike , E. Opabola Tolulope , A. Owolabi Hamida , E. Onu Nneoma , L. Nat-Nwakpuda Chimzurum , E. Ephraim Ogemdikachi , A. Ayinde Kehinde , E. Eneji Ukan , J. Elikwu Charles
Published: October 2024

Background: Body piercing is an increasingly common practice globally. This practice is associated with several health concerns which vary from tissue trauma, allergic reactions, keloids, and infections which can range from local to systemic and transmission of blood-borne infections such as HIV and hepatitis B and C virus. There is limited data in Nigeria on the prevalence, medical and social consequences of body piercing. Hence, this study sought to examine the trends, motivation and complications of body piercing among undergraduate students with body piercings in a university in southwestern Nigeria.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2022 and January 2023 among undergraduate students with body piercings in a private University in Southwestern Nigeria. Self-administered, semi-structured questionnaires were used to obtain data from the 137 participants.
Results: The mean age of the respondents was 19.43 ± 1.52 years and 59.1% were females. The number of body piercings among the participants ranged from 1-9 with 43.8% having 2 body piercings. The ear lobe was the most commonly (66.1%) pierced site.  Males were more likely to pierce their tongues while females were more likely to pierce their navels. The predominant motivations for obtaining body piercings were fashion (40.0%), self-expression (36.2%), and creative expression (21.5%). Most (50.0%) of the participants had piercings done by staff in a professional piercing shop, a piercing needle was the most common instrument used (42.6%) and most (79.6%) of the participants reported sterilization of the piercing instrument before use. Only 8.8% of the participants reported complications which ranged from post-piercing bleeding (2.2%), and haematoma formation (4.4%) to tearing of skin (2.2%).
Conclusion: Due to the increasing popularity of body piercing, there is a need to increase awareness about the hazards associated with body piercings among piercers, their clients and the health services.
Engaging Faith Based Leaders in the Fight against Glaucoma Related Blindness
Authors: ArinzeAnthonyOnwuegbuna  , Eze UgochukwuAnthony , Apakama Akunne Ijeoma , AkujuobiChianakwalam Emeka , Ezeude Chidiebele Malachy , Ochiogu Bernard Chukwunonyerem , Udeaja Anthonia , Ubaka Christiana Onyinye , Okonkwo Ogugua Ndubisi , Eleje George Uchenna , Uzozie Charles Chukwudi
Published: October 2024

Purpose: To determine the role of faith leaders towards reducing glaucoma blindness in Africa.
Methodology: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted among faith-based leaders in Anambra state. A pretested self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire was distributed among consenting faith-leaders. Responses obtained include biodata of respondents and roles. Data obtained was analyzed using IBM SPSS 23. Statistical significance was set at p˂0.05.
Results: Out of 167 faith leaders who participated, 123 (73.7%) were males, giving a male to female ratio (M: F) of 2.8:1 and a mean age of 47.02 years ± 13.84 SD. Majority of the participants 54.5% were of the catholic extraction while only 1.2% were Sabbatarians and 65% have a 500-capacity congregation. About two-thirds (65.4%) believed that glaucoma could cause blindness and 79.7% have undergone an eye check for glaucoma. Routine eye/health check was reported among 85.8% of respondents as the main indication for eye examination. About half (51.8%) of those yet to have their eyes examined have no special reason while about 80% believed routine eye check is the best way to prevent glaucoma blindness through routine eye checks, with over half (57.1%) willing to participate in prevention campaigns and 60.4% believed church to be the best avenue for this campaign.
Conclusion: The results showed that faith leaders who wield great influence in our environment are willing to participate in campaign against glaucoma blindness in their respective churches.
Juvenile Myopia: The Silent Vision Understanding, Preventing, and Managing Childhood Myopia
Authors: Reddy Patricia , Chandekar Veera
Published: October 2024

Juvenile myopia, a significant visual impairment characterized by blurred distance vision, is increasingly prevalent among Indian children. This review explores the multifactorial etiology of myopia, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and lifestyle factors such as prolonged near work and limited outdoor activities. The pathophysiology involves abnormal eye elongation driven by genetic and environmental factors, leading to refractive errors. Clinical manifestations include blurry distance vision, squinting, eye strain, and headaches, impacting academic performance and quality of life.
Emphasis on early detection, parental awareness, and adherence to treatment protocols is crucial in controlling myopia progression and preventing long-term complications such as retinal detachment, myopic maculopathy, and glaucoma. This review underscores the need for comprehensive public health strategies to address the growing burden of juvenile myopia in India. Juvenile myopia is rapidly becoming a significant public health concern in India, with increasing prevalence driven by lifestyle changes, urbanization, and academic pressures.
This systematic review aims to examine the prevalence, risk factors, and interventions for childhood myopia, with a focus on understanding the silent nature of this condition, identifying early prevention strategies, and outlining management techniques to curb its progression.
Development of a Simulator for Submarine Path Estimation and Optimization of Sonobuoy Deployment Patterns
Authors: Jeong Jaeho
Published: October 2024

Due to specificity in the underwater environment, the difficulty of detecting submarine and the threat of submarine are increasing. The probability of detecting a submarine can be increased by estimation submarine path and optimizing sonobuoy deployment. In this paper, marine data collection, dynamics of submarine, submarine tracking path modeling, acoustic wave propagation modeling, detection probability modeling are applied in the simulator as similar to reality as possible. A simulator is developed to design submarine path estimation and sonobuoy deployment optimization scenario and to check result according to the scenario.
Battle Simulator for Multi-Robot Mission Simulation and Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Bae Jungho , Lee Youngil , Kim Dohyun , Kim Heesoo , Kim Myoungyoung , Kim Myungjun , Kim Heeyoung
Published: October 2024

As AI technology advances, interest in performing multi-robot autonomous missions for manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) is increasing. In order to develop autonomous mission performance technology for multiple robots, simulation technology that reflects the characteristics of real robots and can flexibly apply various missions is needed. Additionally, in order to solve complex non-linear tasks, an API must be provided to apply multi-robot reinforcement learning technology, which is currently under active research. In this study, we propose the campaign model to flexibly simulate the missions of multiple robots. We then discuss the results of developing a simulation environment that can be edited and run and provides a reinforcement learning API including acceleration performance. The proposed simulated control module and simulated environment were verified using an enemy infiltration scenario, and parallel processing performance for efficient reinforcement learning was confirmed through experiments.
Ortaokul Öğretmenlerinin Akademik İyimserlik Tutumları: Bir Q Metodoloji Çalışması
Authors: Akpolat Tuba
Published: October 2024

Öğretmenlerin öğrenci performansını nasıl etkilediğini anlamak için öğretme-öğrenme hakkındaki inançları ve davranışlarını anlamak önemlidir. Öğretmen akademik iyimserliği, öğretmenlerin öğretme-öğrenme sürecinde kendilerine, öğrencilerine ve velilerine güvenleri ile öğrencilerin potansiyellerini aşmalarını sağlayacak okul kültürüne ilişkin inançlarından oluşan bir kişilik özelliği olarak tanımlanmaktadır. Bu bağlamda, bu çalışmada başarı durumu birbirinden farklı ortaokullarda görev yapan öğretmenlerin akademik iyimserlik eğilimlerinin araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma bir karma yöntem deseni olan Q metodoloji deseni kullanılarak tasarlanmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu, başarı durumu düşük, orta ve yüksek ortaokullarda çalışan 12 öğretmen oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmanın sonucunda, ortaokul öğretmenlerinin çalıştıkları okulların başarı durumuna göre iki faktör altında toplandığı görülmüştür. Yüksek akademik başarıya sahip okullarda çalışan öğretmenler teşvik ediciler ve düşük-orta akademik başarıya sahip okullarda çalışan öğretmenler motiveler olarak isimlendirilmiştir. Düşük ve orta başarıya sahip okullarda çalışan motiveler grubundaki öğretmenlerin akademik iyimserlik algıları, öz yeterlikleri üzerinde eğilim göstermektedir. Bununla birlikte yüksek başarıya sahip okullarda çalışan teşvik ediciler grubundaki öğretmenlerin, akademik iyimserlik algılarının öğrenci ve veliye güven ile akademik vurgu üzerine eğilim gösterdiği sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Identification and characterization of secreted factors that are upregulated during somatic cell reprogramming
Authors: Bansho Yoshimi , Lee Joonseong , Nishida Eisuke , Nakajima‐Koyama May
Published: May 2017

The process of cell reprogramming has been characterized considerably since the successful generation of induced pluripotent stem cells. However, the importance of cell–cell communications for cellular reprogramming remains largely unknown. Secreted factors, which are expressed and secreted during reprogramming, may influence the reprogramming efficiency. Here, we have identified Sostdc1, Glb1l2, Fetub, Dpp4, Gdf3, Trh, and Tdgf1 as prominently upregulated secreted factors during reprogramming. Our detailed analysis reveals that these seven factors may be categorized into four groups based on their expression patterns in relation to the reprogramming stages. Remarkably, knockdown of Sostdc1, which is the most prominently upregulated factor and which is expressed earlier than the other six factors, results in reduced reprogramming efficiency, suggesting its involvement in the reprogramming process.
Productivity patterns in the equatorial Pacific over the last 30,000 years
Authors: Costa Kassandra M. , Jacobel Allison W. , McManus Jerry F. , Anderson Robert F. , Winckler Gisela , Thiagarajan Nivedita
Published: May 2017

The equatorial Pacific traverses a number of productivity regimes, from the highly productive coastal upwelling along Peru to the near gyre‐like productivity lows along the international dateline, making it an ideal target for investigating how biogeochemical systems respond to changing oceanographic conditions over time. However, conflicting reconstructions of productivity during periods of rapid climate change, like the last deglaciation, render the spatiotemporal response of equatorial Pacific productivity ambiguous. In this study, surface productivity since the last glacial period (30,000 years ago) is reconstructed from seven cores near the Line Islands, central equatorial Pacific, and integrated with productivity records from across the equatorial Pacific. Three coherent deglacial patterns in productivity are identified: (1) a monotonic glacial‐Holocene increase in productivity, primarily along the Equator, associated with increasing nutrient concentrations over time; (2) a deglacial peak in productivity ~15,000 years ago due to transient entrainment of nutrient rich southern‐sourced deep waters; and (3) possible precessional cycles in productivity in the eastern equatorial Pacific that may be related to Intertropical Convergence Zone migration and potential interactions with El Niño–Southern Oscillation dynamics. These findings suggest that productivity was generally lower during the glacial period, a trend observed zonally across the equatorial Pacific, while deglacial peaks in productivity may be prominent only in the east.
Early Permian mafic dikes in the Nagqu area, central Tibet, China, associated with embryonic oceanic crust of the Meso‐Tethys Ocean
Authors: Chen Sheng‐Sheng , Shi Ren‐Deng , Fan Wei‐Ming , Gong Xiao‐Han , Wu Kang
Published: May 2017

During the latest Carboniferous to Early Permian, a possible mantle plume initiated continental rifting along the northern Gondwana margin, which subsequently developed into the Meso‐Tethys Ocean. However, the nature and timing of the embryonic oceanic crust of the Meso‐Tethys Ocean remain poorly understood. Here we present for the first time a combined analysis of petrological, geochronological, geochemical, and Sr‐Nd isotopic data for mafic rocks from the Nagqu area, central Tibet. Zircons from the mafic rocks yield a concordant age of ~277.8 ± 1.8 Ma, which is slightly younger than the age of mantle plume activity (~300–279 Ma), as represented by the large igneous province (LIP) on the northern Gondwana margin. Geochemical features suggest that the Nagqu mafic rocks, which display normal mid‐ocean ridge basalt affinities, are different from those of the LIP, which display oceanic island basalt‐type affinities. The Nagqu mafic rocks result from a relatively high degree of melting of depleted asthenospheric mantle. Combined with observations from previous studies, we suggest that the late Early Permian Nagqu magmatism fully records processes of early stage rifting and incipient formation of oceanic crust. Moreover, the patterns of magmatism are consistent with patterns of rift‐related sedimentation that records the transition from predominantly continental to marine deposition in the region during the Carboniferous‐Permian. We therefore suggest that rifting of the eastern Cimmerian and northern Gondwana continents started at ~277.8 Ma, and the rifting culminated in the opening of the Meso‐Tethys Ocean.
Assessing future vent opening locations at the Somma‐Vesuvio volcanic complex: 1. A new information geodatabase with uncertainty characterizations
Authors: Tadini A. , Bisson M. , Neri A. , Cioni R. , Bevilacqua A. , Aspinall W. P.
Published: May 2017

This study presents new and revised data sets about the spatial distribution of past volcanic vents, eruptive fissures, and regional/local structures of the Somma‐Vesuvio volcanic system (Italy). The innovative features of the study are the identification and quantification of important sources of uncertainty affecting interpretations of the data sets. In this regard, the spatial uncertainty of each feature is modeled by an uncertainty area, i.e., a geometric element typically represented by a polygon drawn around points or lines. The new data sets have been assembled as an updatable geodatabase that integrates and complements existing databases for Somma‐Vesuvio. The data are organized into 4 data sets and stored as 11 feature classes (points and lines for feature locations and polygons for the associated uncertainty areas), totaling more than 1700 elements. More specifically, volcanic vent and eruptive fissure elements are subdivided into feature classes according to their associated eruptive styles: (i) Plinian and sub‐Plinian eruptions (i.e., large‐ or medium‐scale explosive activity); (ii) violent Strombolian and continuous ash emission eruptions (i.e., small‐scale explosive activity); and (iii) effusive eruptions (including eruptions from both parasitic vents and eruptive fissures). Regional and local structures (i.e., deep faults) are represented as linear feature classes. To support interpretation of the eruption data, additional data sets are provided for Somma‐Vesuvio geological units and caldera morphological features. In the companion paper, the data presented here, and the associated uncertainties, are used to develop a first vent opening probability map for the Somma‐Vesuvio caldera, with specific attention focused on large or medium explosive events.
Development of a remote sensing algorithm to retrieve atmospheric aerosol properties using multiwavelength and multipixel information
Authors: Hashimoto Makiko , Nakajima Teruyuki
Published: May 2017

We developed a satellite remote sensing algorithm to retrieve the aerosol optical properties using satellite‐received radiances for multiple wavelengths and pixels. Our algorithm utilizes spatial inhomogeneity of surface reflectance to retrieve aerosol properties, and the main target is urban aerosols. This algorithm can simultaneously retrieve aerosol optical thicknesses (AOT) for fine‐ and coarse‐mode aerosols, soot volume fraction in fine‐mode aerosols (SF), and surface reflectance over heterogeneous surfaces such as urban areas that are difficult to obtain by conventional pixel‐by‐pixel methods. We applied this algorithm to radiances measured by the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite/Thermal and Near Infrared Sensor for Carbon Observations‐Cloud and Aerosol Image (GOSAT/TANSO‐CAI) at four wavelengths and were able to retrieve the aerosol parameters in several urban regions and other surface types. A comparison of the retrieved AOTs with those from the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) indicated retrieval accuracy within ±0.077 on average. It was also found that the column‐averaged SF and the aerosol single scattering albedo (SSA) underwent seasonal changes as consistent with the ground surface measurements of SSA and black carbon at Beijing, China.
Emergent anthropogenic trends in California Current upwelling
Authors: Brady Riley X. , Alexander Michael A. , Lovenduski Nicole S. , Rykaczewski Ryan R.
Published: May 2017

Upwelling in the California Current System (CCS) sustains a productive ecosystem and is mediated by alongshore, equatorward wind stress. A decades‐old hypothesis proposes that global warming will accelerate these upwelling favorable winds. Recent analyses provide empirical support for upwelling intensification in the poleward portion of the CCS. However, these studies rely on proxies for upwelling and are limited in their ability to distinguish anthropogenic forcing from internal climate variability. Here we estimate simulated changes in CCS upwelling from 1920 to 2100 using monthly output from a single climate model ensemble, where divergences among simulations can be attributed entirely to internal climate variability. Our projections suggest that CCS upwelling will become more intense in the spring and less intense in the summer as a result of anthropogenic climate change. Anthropogenic changes in upwelling will emerge primarily in the second half of the century.