bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of External Ear Deformity on Hearing in Wrestlers
Authors: Özal Nurşah , Çetin Kara Halide , Çögen Talha , Özdoğan Hasan Ahmet
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

Cauliflower ear in wrestlers can lead to hearing impairment. This study primarily aims to assess the hearing of wrestlers with bilateral cauliflower ears and determine their external ear canal (EEC) resonance frequencies. Our second aim is to evaluate their hearing quality, speech, and spatial perception.

Method:

This study included 28 male wrestlers aged 18–35 years with bilateral cauliflower ears, as well as 27 male participants in the control group with no wrestling history. The participants' hearing thresholds were determined across the frequency range of 125–16000 Hz for air-conduction and 500–4000 Hz for bone conduction. EEC resonance frequencies were measured. Additionally, all participants completed the Turkish version of the Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ) questionnaire.

Results:

Wrestlers with cauliflower ears exhibited significantly higher hearing thresholds, particularly at frequencies above 4000 Hz (
p
< .05). Analysis of EEC resonance showed a shift to higher frequencies in the second resonance peak of the right ear (
p
< .001) and the first resonance peak of the left ear (
p
= .045). SSQ scores revealed that wrestlers had higher spatial perception (
p
= .046), hearing quality (
p
= .004), and general scores (
p
= .042) in comparison to the control group.

Conclusions:

Blunt traumas in wrestlers, leading to cauliflower ear, can result in hearing loss. Moreover, deformities in the external ear affect the resonance frequencies of the EEC. Therefore, it is crucial to advocate for the use of ear protection equipment among wrestlers. When fitting hearing aids, attention should be given to changes in the EEC resonance frequency.
Deep learning on medical image analysis
Authors: Wang Jiaji , Wang Shuihua , Zhang Yudong
Published: June 2024

Medical image analysis plays an irreplaceable role in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring various diseases. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have become popular as they can extract intricate features and patterns from extensive datasets. The paper covers the structure of CNN and its advances and explores the different types of transfer learning strategies as well as classic pre‐trained models. The paper also discusses how transfer learning has been applied to different areas within medical image analysis. This comprehensive overview aims to assist researchers, clinicians, and policymakers by providing detailed insights, helping them make informed decisions about future research and policy initiatives to improve medical image analysis and patient outcomes.
Research on adaptive object detection via improved HSA‐YOLOv5 for raspberry maturity detection
Authors: Ling Chen , Zhang Qunying , Zhang Mei , Gao Chihan
Published: June 2024

In the field of machine vision, target detection models have experienced rapid development and have been practically applied in various domains. In agriculture, target detection models are commonly used to identify various types of fruits. However, when it comes to recognizing berries, such as raspberries, the fruits nearing ripeness exhibit highly similar colours, posing a challenge for existing target detection models to accurately identify raspberries in this stage. Addressing this issue, a raspberry detection method called HSA‐YOLOv5 (HSV self‐adaption YOLOv5) is proposed. This method detects immature, nearly ripe, and ripe raspberries. The approach involves transforming the RGB colour space of the original dataset images into an improved HSV colour space. By adjusting corresponding parameters and enhancing the contrast of similar colours while retaining the maximum features of the original image, the method strengthens data features. Adaptive selection of HSV parameters is performed based on data captured under different weather conditions, applying homogeneous preprocessing to the dataset. The improved model is compared with the original YOLOv5 model using a self‐constructed dataset. Experimental results demonstrate that the improved model achieves a mean average precision (mAP) of 0.97, a 6.42 percentage point increase compared to the baseline YOLOv5 model. In terms of immature, nearly ripe, and ripe raspberries, there are improvements of 6, 4, and 7 percentage points, respectively, validating the effectiveness of the proposed model.
Tully-Fisher relation of late-type galaxies at 0.6 ≤ z ≤ 2.5
Authors: Sharma Gauri , Upadhyaya Varenya , Salucci Paolo , Desai Shantanu
Published: June 2024

We present a study of the stellar and baryonic Tully-Fisher relation within the redshift range of 0.6 ≤ z ≤ 2.5, utilizing observations of star-forming galaxies. This dataset comprises of disk-like galaxies spanning a stellar mass range of 8.89 ≤ log(Mstar [M⊙]) ≤ 11.5, a baryonic mass range of 9.0 ≤ log(Mbar [M⊙]) ≤ 11.5, and a circular velocity range of 1.65 ≤ log(Vc [km/s]) ≤ 2.85. We estimated the stellar masses of these objects using spectral energy distribution fitting techniques, while the gas masses were determined via scaling relations. Circular velocities were directly derived from the rotation curves (RCs), after meticulously correcting for beam smearing and pressure support. Our analysis confirms that our sample adheres to the fundamental mass-size relations of galaxies and reflects the evolution of velocity dispersion in galaxies, in line with previous findings. This reaffirms the reliability of our photometric and kinematic parameters (i.e., Mstar and Vc), thereby enabling a comprehensive examination of the Tully-Fisher relation. To attain robust results, we employed a novel orthogonal likelihood fitting technique designed to minimize intrinsic scatter around the best-fit line, as required at high redshifts. For the stellar Tully-Fisher relation, we obtained a slope of α = 3.03 ± 0.25, an offset of β = 3.34 ± 0.53, and an intrinsic scatter of ζint = 0.08 dex. Correspondingly, the baryonic Tully-Fisher relation yielded α = 3.21 ± 0.28, β = 3.16 ± 0.61, and ζint = 0.09 dex. Our findings indicate a subtle deviation in the stellar and baryonic Tully-Fisher relation with respect to local studies, which is most likely due to the evolutionary processes governing disk formation.
Disentangling the X-ray variability in the Lyman continuum emitter Haro 11
Authors: Danehkar A. , Silich S. , Herenz E. C. , Östlin G.
Published: June 2024

Context. Lyman break analogs in the local Universe serve as counterparts to Lyman break galaxies (LBGs) at high redshifts, which are widely regarded as major contributors to cosmic reionization in the early stages of the Universe.

Aims. We studied XMM-Newton and Chandra observations of the nearby LBG analog Haro 11, which contains two X-ray-bright sources, X1 and X2. Both sources exhibit Lyman continuum (LyC) leakage, particularly X2.

Methods. We analyzed the X-ray variability using principal component analysis (PCA) and performed spectral modeling of the X1 and X2 observations made with the Chandra ACIS-S instrument.

Results. The PCA component, which contributes to the X-ray variability, is apparently associated with variable emission features, likely from ionized superwinds. Our spectral analysis of the Chandra data indicates that the fainter X-ray source, X2 (X-ray luminosity LX ∼ 4 × 1040 erg s−1), the one with higher LyC leakage, has a much lower absorbing column (NH ∼ 1.2 × 1021 cm−2) than the heavily absorbed luminous source X1 (LX ∼ 9 × 1040 erg s−1 and NH ∼ 11.5 × 1021 cm−2).

Conclusions. We conclude that X2 is likely less covered by absorbing material, which may be a result of powerful superwinds clearing galactic channels and facilitating the escape of LyC radiation. Much deeper X-ray observations are required to validate the presence of potential superwinds and determine their implications for the LyC escape.
Imaging of I Zw 18 by JWST
Authors: Bortolini Giacomo , Östlin Göran , Habel Nolan , Hirschauer Alec S. , Jones Olivia C. , Justtanont Kay , Meixner Margaret , Boyer Martha L. , Blommaert Joris A. D. L. , Crouzet Nicolas , Lenkić Laura , Nally Conor , Sargent Beth A. , van der Werf Paul , Güdel Manuel , Henning Thomas , Lagage Pierre O.
Published: June 2024

Context. The blue compact dwarf (BCD) galaxy I Zw 18 is one of the most metal-poor (Z ∼ 3% Z⊙) star-forming galaxies known in the local Universe. Since its discovery, the evolutionary status of this system has been at the center of numerous debates within the astronomical community.

Aims. We aim to probe and resolve the stellar populations of I Zw 18 in the near-IR using JWST/NIRCam’s unprecedented imaging spatial resolution and sensitivity. Additionally, our goal is to derive the spatially resolved star formation history (SFH) of the galaxy within the last 1 Gyr, and to provide constraints for older epochs.

Methods. We used the point spread function fitting photometry package DOLPHOT to measure positions and fluxes of point sources in the F115W and F200W filters’ images of I Zw 18, acquired as part of the JWST GTO ID 1233 (PI: Meixner). Furthermore, to derive I Zw 18’s SFH, we applied a state-of-the-art color-magnitude diagram (CMD) fitting technique (SFERA 2.0), using two independent sets of stellar models: PARSEC-COLIBRI and MIST.

Results. Our analysis of I Zw 18’s CMD reveal three main stellar populations: one younger than ∼30 Myr, mainly associated with the northwest star-forming (SF) region; an intermediate-age population (∼100 − 800 Myr), associated with the southeast SF region; and a red and faint population, linked to the underlying halo of the galaxy, older than 1 Gyr and possibly as old as 13.8 Gyr. The main body of the galaxy shows a very low star formation rate (SFR) of
~10-4M⊙ yr−1
between 1 and 13.8 Gyr ago. In the last billion years, I Zw 18 shows an increasing trend, culminating in two strong bursts of SF around ∼10 and ∼100 Myr ago. Notably, I Zw 18 Component C mimics the evolution of the main body, but with lower SFRs on average.

Conclusions. Our results confirm that I Zw 18 is populated by stars of all ages, without any major gaps. Thus, I Zw 18 is not a truly young galaxy, but rather a system characterized by an old underlying stellar halo, in agreement with what has been found in other BCDs by similar studies. The low SF activity exhibited at epochs older than 1 Gyr is in agreement with the “slow cooking" dwarf scenario proposed in the literature, and could have contributed to its low metal content. The galaxy is now experiencing its strongest episode of star formation (∼ 0.6 M⊙ yr−1) mainly located in the northwest region. A recent gravitational interaction between the main body and Component C is the most likely explanation for this starburst.
Use of geomatics, Simulating the Impact of Future Land Use and Climate Change on Soil Erosion in the Tigrigra watershed (Azrou region, Middle Atlas, Morocco)
Authors: Saouita Jihane , El-Hmaidi Abdellah , Ousmana Habiba , Iallamen Zineb , Boufala M’hamed , Ragragui Hind , Kasse Zahra , El Ouali Anas , Aouragh My Hachem , Jaddi Hajar
Published: June 2024

Soil losses need to be quantified in watersheds to implement erosion protection measures. The main objective of this work is to quantify soil loss in the Tigrigra watershed over the reference period 1985-2020 and two future periods 2050-2070, A Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model supported by geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing was used. GIS’s model generator can automate various operations of creating thematic layers of model parameters. For future climatic periods (2050-2070), precipitation was produced using a classical statistical downscaling model (SDSM). On the other hand, Automata/Markov models (CA Markov) are used to characterize future land use through modeling in Idrisi software. Over the two periods, the results showed that annual erosivity varies decreases, or increases. The annual soil loss maps showed that 50% of our study area was in the very low class (<5 t/ha/year), while 20% was in the severe class (>80 t/ha/year). These fluctuations are primarily due to the effects of climate change and deforestation/reforestation in the region. This leads to changes in soil erosion due to the important role played by these two factors.
Aquifer systems in dry regions: Hydro-geophysical and geochemical investigations providing insights into water resources in southeast Tunisia
Authors: Abdelkarim Bilel , Antunes Margarida , Agoubi Belgacem
Published: June 2024

Water demands from agriculture and industry have intensified groundwater extraction, prompting a focused study to bolster water resources, particularly at Gabès region (Southeastern Tunisia). Through extensive geologic and geophysical investigations, the reservoir geometry and structural architecture of crucial aquifers, notably the Mio-Plio-Quaternary and Cretaceous aquifers have been studied. The integration of geochemical and geophysical data allows for a nuanced assessment of fault structures and groundwater hydrodynamics. Advanced techniques, like horizontal gradient and upward extension unveils structural features and density contrasts with precision. This study extends to a spatiotemporal analysis of aquifer hydrodynamics and groundwater mineralization. The Gabès aquifer system exhibits four groundwater facies: Ca–Mg–SO4, Na–Cl–NO3, Ca–Mg–HCO3, and Na–K–HCO3. Results reveal relative isotopic depletion, suggesting recharge under colder climates and at higher altitudes. However, the study underscores the impact of climate change, with increasing temperature and dwindling precipitation in North Africa, since the mid-20th century. This research is a relevant contribution to sustainable water management by emphasizing the impact of climate change scenarios and groundwater resources management. The detailed exploration of hydrogeological characteristics and aquifer dynamics in the Gabès region is pivotal on effective management of groundwater resources strategies in semi-arid environments.
Study of the effect of pretreatments on the germination and growth of Pistacia Atlantica subsp. atlantica: Investigations for the conservation of an endangered species in Morocco
Authors: Bassouya Mohammed , Jawhari Fatima Zahra , Lafraxo Soufyane , Chedadi Mohamed , Bari Amina
Published: June 2024

The study delves into the critical issue of declining Moroccan endemic plant species of agro-sylva-pastoral and medicinal significance, impacted by various environmental degradation factors. With the aim of conserving and rehabilitating these species, the research focused on improving the germination and growth parameters of Pistacia atlantica subsp. atantica whose seeds were carried from different area of the Middle Moulouya; Oled Ali Youssef; El Orjane and Fritissa. In this study, nine different treatments were employed to overcome seed dormancy. These treatments included chemical scarification using gibberellic acid and sulfuric acid (98%), thermal scarification at 40°C for 24, 48, and 72 hours, mechanical scarification using manual sandpaper, and stratification at +4°C for 45, 60, and 75 days. The results showed that mechanical scarification yielded notably higher germination rates compared to the control group. Specifically, for seeds from Oled Ali Youssef, the germination rate was 81.11%, while for El Orjane and Fritissa, it was 38.88% and 71.11%, respectively, in contrast to 67.78%, 25.56%, and 44.44% in the control group. Moreover, the study revealed that treatments such as mechanical scarification, gibberellin application, and 30-day cold stratification significantly influenced the growth of seedlings, enhancing propagation practices for the species from its seeds. These findings underscore the importance of seed source, viability, and pre-germination treatments in achieving successful germination and growth.
Measurement of frictional torque of a directacting valvetrain using a shaft-to-shaft torque transducer to study the effect of Laser Surface Texturing on friction reduction
Authors: Siddiqui Muhammad Rizwan , Ali Mian Ashfaq , Mufti Riaz Ahmed , Aslam Jawad , Bhutta Muhammad Usman , Zahid Rehan , Khurram Muhammad
Published: June 2024

The study of tribological applications requires measuring various parameters, including RPMs, friction, and wear. The useful information is sometimes not readily available in a measurement and requires further postprocessing to extract that information. In this research, a production engine test rig has been developed to study a direct-acting valvetrain’s tribological performance for various operating conditions. The measurement of the drive torque is carried out by using a shaft-to-shaft torque transducer. The total drive torque is a combination of geometric torque and frictional torque. The geometric torque is not affected by changes in parameters such as surface modification or lubricant chemistry but the frictional torque changes. We need to extract the frictional torque from the total drive torque to study the effect of any parameter or operating condition change on friction. As variation in frictional torque helps the tribologists to compare the performance of different parameter changes. This paper explains the complete procedure of measuring the experimental frictional torque from drive torque data. In this study, the frictional torque variation between an untextured and a textured tappet shim is studied for a direct acting cam tappet contact of a real production engine.
Material Selection in Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace Applications using Multi-Criteria Decision Making
Authors: Junaid Muhammad , Zaman Uzair Khaleeq uz , Naseem Afshan , Ahmad Yasir , Aqeel Anas Bin
Published: June 2024

A decision-making methodology for the material selection is presented in this paper. A multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) based hybrid approach, AHP-TOPSIS, was used to choose the appropriate additive manufacturing (AM) material for aerospace applications. This study evaluated nine polymer-based AM materials for an aerospace application. Experts from both industry and academia carefully finalized the selection criteria. Selected criteria are divided into three main categories: performance, economic and environmental. Firstly, the AHP approach was used to get the weights of criteria chosen via pairwise comparisons. Second, a decision matrix containing the properties of materials was created. The TOPSIS method was then applied using the AHP criteria weights and decision matrix, resulting in the final ranking of materials. ULTEM material ranked number 1 and was selected as the appropriate material for an aerospace application. Additionally, sensitivity analysis was also carried out to check the proposed method’s reliability and robustness.
Portable Solar-Station with Integrated Battery Management and Load Monitoring System
Authors: Bhatti Abdur Rafay , Lakhair Hasnain , Sher Hadeed Ahmed , Cheema Taqi Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Natural disasters occur worldwide, affecting thousands of lives annually. The primary response is to relocate those affected to safe locations with access to basic necessities. However, often diesel generator sets are employed for electricity provision, posing harm to the environment and generating noise pollution. To address these concerns, a compact portable solar station has been designed and developed, featuring an integrated battery management system (BMS) and load monitoring mechanism (LMM). As a prototype, the system has a power output of 200 W using a 2x2 array of 50 W solar panels. The design discusses the mechanical as electrical presentation to make it useful in natural disasters by making use of green energy. A user interface to display all the relevant parameters via an LCD is also mounted. The system reduces the carbon footprint and provides an easy, clean energy solution to refugee campsites during disasters.
Development in Heavy Metal Ions Detection: Antimony-Hydroxyapatite Modified Electrodes Coupled with Square Wave Anodic Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Draz Muhammad Umar , Amina  , Bhatti Saad Ullah , Yaqub Asim , Jafry Ali Turab , Ajab Huma
Published: June 2024

The occurrence of heavy metal ions in environmental matrices presents serious risks to human health and ecosystems. An electrochemical sensor for the simultaneous detection of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) ions in aqueous samples is presented in this study. The sensor was optimized through material composition, electrolyte, deposition, and electrochemical parameters using a modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) comprising hydroxyapatite (HAp) and antimony (Sb). Calibration studies showed high sensitivity (0.574 ± 0.32 ppb) and strong linearity (R2 = 0.993) for Pb detection. Repeated studies showed that the minimum standard deviation (RSD) was ±3.73%, confirming the reliability of the results. Real sample analysis of tap water with the developed method had less than 5% deviation in results as compared to results obtained from atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Furthermore, promising results were obtained from simultaneous detection of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions, thus the sensor showed reliability for practical applications.
Optimal profit in two-level trade credit EOQ model with default risk and reminder cost under finite time horizon having time-dependent demand and deterioration
Authors: Kumar Gautam , Bera Sukhendu , Samanta Guruprasad , Maiti Manoranjan
Published: June 2024

Trade credit is a type of promotional activity that generally increases demand and revenue but also invites default risk due to dishonest customers. Due to default risk, revenue is lost, and to overcome this, an arrangement is made to remind the defaulters. A retailer dealing with a perishable item wants to exhaust the stock quickly after a certain deterioration level. Demand and deterioration of the products are normally dynamic. The business period of seasonal products is uncertain. Considering these facts, we formulate and analyze a two-level trade credit inventory model, where the wholesaler and retailer give credit periods to their corresponding downstream customers. After a certain level of deterioration, the retailer increases the credit period for the customers for early stock exhaustion, and to reduce default risk, a reminder cost is introduced. These activities increase the profit. The mathematical models under different circumstances are formulated for different time horizons. Some existing results are deduced. The models are numerically solved using a parametric study and the Generalised Reduced Gradient method through LINGO 19.0 software. Some lemmas and theorems are deduced to establish the analytical outcomes. Trade-offs between the number of the business cycle, trade credit, and reminder cost against optimum profit are separately demonstrated. The results with and without reminder cost are compared, and it is shown that the model with reminder cost fetches more profit. Profit under different uncertain environments are evaluated, and they differ marginally. Some beneficial impacts are discussed.
Brainstem raphe hypoechogenicity is an independent predictor of post-stroke depression
Authors: Richter Daniel , Ebert Andreas , Mazul Lisa , Ruland Quirin , Charles James Jeyanthan , Gold Ralf , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Palaiodimou Lina , Juckel Georg , Krogias Christos
Published: June 2024

Purpose Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a common complication after stroke and has a substantial effect on the quality of life of patients. Nevertheless, reliable individual prediction of PSD is not possible. As depressive symptoms have been associated with brainstem raphe (BR) hypoechogenicity on transcranial sonography (TCS), we aimed to explore the association of BR hypoechogenicity and the occurrence of PSD.

Materials and Methods The Prognostic Markers of Post-Stroke Depression (PROMoSD) study is a prospective, observational, single-center, investigator-initiated study that included patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) to investigate the presence of BR hypoechogenicity by TCS early after symptom onset. The primary outcome was the presence of PSD assessed at the three-month follow-up investigation by a blinded psychiatrist and defined according to the fifth version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V criteria).

Results From 105 included AIS patients, 99 patients completed the study. AIS patients with a hypoechogenic BR developed a PSD at three months more frequently compared to patients with normal echogenicity (48.0% versus 4.1%, P <0.001). After adjustment for confounders (sex, mRS at follow-up, previous depressive episode), a hypoechogenic BR remained independently associated with a substantial increase in the appearance of PSD (adjusted OR: 6.371, 95%-CI: 1.181–34.362).

Conclusion A hypoechogenic BR is a strong and independent predictor of PSD at three months after AIS. TCS could be a routine tool to assess PSD risk in clinical practice, thereby streamlining diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms.
A case of gastric granulosa cell tumor resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Lu Shijie , Xu Chengyi , Zhang Lian , Li Junan
Published: June 2024

Granular cell tumors, uncommon soft tissue growths, predominantly manifest in the subcutaneous and tongue areas, while those in the gastrointestinal tract are scarce and develop slowly. Patients typically show no distinct clinical symptoms and are hard to differentiate from gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors, smooth muscle tumors, neural sheath tumors, and rhabdomyosarcomas using endoscopy. This paper details a case of a granular cell tumor in the stomach addressed through endoscopic submucosal dissection, focusing on its endoscopic attributes and clinicopathological traits.
Iron-Catalyzed Three-Component Asymmetric Carboazidation of Alkenes with Alkanes and Trimethylsilyl Azide
Authors: Liu Yangbin , Feng Xiaoming , Ge Liang
Published: June 2024

The fusion of transition-metal catalysis with radical chemistry provides a versatile platform for the asymmetric radical carboazidation of alkenes to enable the rapid assembly of highly functionalized chiral azide compounds. Here, we present an iron-catalyzed asymmetric three-component radical carboazidation that processes electron-deficient alkenes by direct activation of aliphatic C–H bonds. This strategy provides access to a range of valuable chiral azides from readily available chemical feedstocks bearing a tetrasubstituted carbon stereocenter, and their synthetic potential is further showcased through straightforward transformations to provide other valuable enantioenriched building blocks.
Base-Promoted Reaction between N-Acyl Benzotriazoles and p-Toluenesulfonylmethyl Isocyanide (TosMIC): A Facile Synthesis of 4,5-Disubstituted Oxazoles
Authors: Li Wanfang , You Hui , Liu Daming , Pan Mengni , Shen Yue , Li Yang
Published: June 2024

We herein developed a base-promoted cyclization reaction between N-acyl benzotriazoles and p-toluenesulfonylmethyl isocyanide (TosMIC) to afford 4,5-disubstituted oxazoles. In the presence of 3 equiv of K3PO4, the two readily available starting materials reacted in N,N-dimethylformamide at 80 °C to give 28 examples of 4-tosyl-5-aryl, -alkyl, or -alkenyl-substituted oxazoles in moderate to high yields.
Association between Eating-Fasting and Sleep-Wake Cycles with Eating Times and Food Consumption throughout the Day: Longitudinal Study with Pregnant Women
Authors: Pereira Cecília Silva , Balieiro Laura Cristina Tibiletti , Teixeira Gabriela Pereira , Gontijo Cristiana Araújo , Marot Luisa Pereira , Fahmy Walid Makin , Crispim Cibele Aparecida , Maia Yara Cristina de Paiva
Published: June 2024

Objective To investigate the associations of the sleep–eating interval with eating times and food consumption throughout the day in pregnant women.

Materials and Methods A longitudinal study with 100 pregnant women treated at the public health network in the city of Uberlândia, state of Minas Gerais (MG), Brazil, during the entire gestational period. The time intervals between waking up and the first eating episode and between the last eating episode and going to sleep (independent variables) were investigated. Outcome measures were meal and sleep times, as well as food consumption throughout the day.

Results Food consumption closer to sleep at night is associated with higher total daily caloric intake in the first (β = −0.337, p = 0.016) and second trimesters (Ts) of pregnancy (β = −0.240, p = 0.023), and with longer sleep duration on weekdays (p < 0.05 for all three trimesters). We did not find associations between the wake-up to first eating episode interval and total calories (p > 0.05 for all three trimesters), but the longer this interval, the greater the percentage of calories at dinner (1T: β = 0.266, p = 0.003; 2T: β = 0.269, p = 0.045) and at the last meal (1T: β = 0.324, p = 0.001; 2T: β = 0.231, p = 0.033).

Discussion Taking longer to eat the first meal after waking up is associated with higher caloric intake later in the day, while taking longer to sleep after eating the last meal is associated with higher total daily caloric intake and shorter sleep duration, especially in the beginning and middle of pregnancy.
Physical Activity Level and Sleep Quality in Community-Dwelling Older Adults. A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Luciano Ygor Matos , Pinto Rafael Zambelli , Gobbi Cynthia , Fernandes Guilherme Luiz , Dokkedal-Silva Vinicius , Lemos Ítalo R. , Pires Gabriel Natan , Andersen Monica Levy , Tufik Sergio , Morelhão Priscila Kalil
Published: June 2024

The worldwide increase in life expectancy has resulted in a significant aging of the population. The physiological and functional changes that result from the aging process, changes in sleep patterns, and the prevalence of chronic diseases affect the health and well-being of individuals aged over 60.

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between levels of physical activity (PA) and sleep quality in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods This is a cross-sectional study, with the participants randomly recruited according to the region and street in which they live. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was applied to assess sleep quality, the Modified Baecke Questionnaire for the Elderly (MBQ-E) to assess PA levels, as well as questionnaires to obtain social, demographic and anthropometric data. Multivariable regression analyses were conducted with PA activity as the independent variable and sleep quality as the dependent variable of interest, while also considering all potential covariates.

Results A total of 503 older adults were analyzed, of whom 377 (75%) were classified as inactive and only 126 (25%) as active. Among the participants, 344 (68.4%) had poor sleep quality, 86 (17.1%) had symptoms of insomnia, and 57 (11.5%) reported complaints of excessive daytime sleepiness. We found that 128 participants (25.4%) consumed alcohol and 41 (8.2%) were current smokers. Multivariate regression results showed an inverse association between PA levels and sleep (Beta coefficient = −0.67 ([95% confidence interval = −1.29 to −0.04]).

Conclusions The results of the study indicate that being physically inactive is associated with poor sleep quality.
Status Epilepticus in Children at a Tertiary Care Center in India: Etiology, Preventable Risk Factors, and Short-Term Outcome
Authors: Merani Kejal , Masavkar Sanjeevani Satish
Published: June 2024

Introduction Status epilepticus (SE) is a common neurological emergency in children. Recent guidelines suggest initiating treatment after 5 minutes of seizure activity.

Objective This study analyzes the clinical, laboratory parameters, and treatment outcomes of children with SE to identify preventable risk factors.

Materials and Methods Prospective observational study of 150 children. They were evaluated for relevant history, clinical features, laboratory investigations, treatment, course, and outcome.

Results The risk factors that had an impact on outcome in children with SE were identified as red flag signs on initial pediatric advanced life support (PALS) assessment, malnutrition, abnormal head circumference and number of seizures before child presented to hospital. The strongest predictor of outcome was stable status of children on initial PALS assessment (odds ratio = 20.174 [1.117, 364.393], p = 0.042). Presence of abnormal head size was 86% less likely to have favorable outcome and if the child had lesser number of seizures before child presented to hospital (single), it was 3.7 times likely that it would yield a favorable outcome.

Conclusion Aggressive treatment of seizures, identification of red flag signs on initial PALS assessment, identification and treatment of malnutrition, anemia, hypocalcemia, and sodium derangements, strengthening vaccination to prevent central nervous system infections, and early intervention for developmental delay, can all help to combat morbidity and mortality in children with SE.
Stabilization with a String-of-Pearls Plate as Treatment for Degenerative Lumbosacral Disease in a Young German Shepherd Dog
Authors: Bohin Clara , Finnen Andrea , Gambino Jennifer , Bos Alexandra
Published: June 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to report the use of a String-of-Pearls (SOP) plate for lumbosacral stabilization as treatment for a 1-year-old German Shepherd suffering from sacral osteochondritis and compressive myelopathy due to lumbosacral subluxation and causing a chronic right hindlimb lameness.

Clinical, imaging, and surgical features are described.

Study Design Case report.

Results A dorsal laminectomy allowed for debridement and lumbosacral stabilization using an SOP plate which led to significant improvement of clinical signs and resolution of pain and discomfort.

Conclusion Successful surgical management was achieved with good long-term results using an SOP plate to stabilize the lumbosacral junction.
Insights into Angiographic Recanalization of Large Arterial Occlusion: Institutional Experience with Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Charan Bheru Dan , Gaikwad Shailesh B. , Jain Savyasachi , Garg Ajay , Sebastian Leve Joseph Devarajan , Srivastava M. V. Padma , Bhatia Rohit , Pandit Awadh Kishore , Kale Shashank Sharad
Published: June 2024

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in humans. Most strokes are ischemic in nature and early recanalization of occluded vessels determines good outcomes. Recanalization of occluded vessels depends on many angiographic and demographic features. These factors need to be identified for better patient overall outcomes. Better preoperative knowledge of factors can help in customizing our treatment approach and explaining the prognosis to the guardians of the patients. We aim to share our institutional experience with mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for stroke and studied factors that affect an angiographic recanalization of vessels. A retrospective single-center study was conducted involving 104 patients who underwent MT at our institution between January 2016 and December 2019. Patient demographics, baseline characteristics, pre- and postprocedural imaging findings, and other clinical data were meticulously reviewed. We divided patients into successful recanalization (modified thrombolysis in cerebral ischemia [mTICI] 2b or 3) and unsuccessful recanalization (mTICI 2a or 1) groups and various factors were analyzed to evaluate their impact on recanalization rates. In the univariate analysis, a significant association was observed between successful recanalization and several factors: the absence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) as a risk factor (p = 0.035), the presence of a hyperdense vessel sign (p = 0.003), and the use of treatment methods including aspiration (p = 0.031), stent retriever (p = 0.001), and Solumbra (p = 0.019). However, in the multivariate analysis, none of these factors exhibited statistical significance. The presence of RHD is a risk factor associated with poor angiographic recanalization in all three MT treatment modalities. Based on the above variables we can guide the patients/relatives prior to MT procedure for their better outcome and risk–benefit ratio.
Change starts within: does managerial ability matter to green innovation?
Authors: Jiang Yalin , Cai Wei , Wang Yu
Published: June 2024

This study delves into the crucial link between managerial ability and green innovation. Motivated by the need for sustainable business practices and the pivotal role innovation plays in environmental sustainability, we identify a significant gap in the existing literature: the specific impact of managerial ability on fostering green innovation has not been adequately explored. Our research is anchored in the resource-based view, arguing that managerial ability is a strategic resource that can significantly influence a firm’s capacity for green innovation. Our empirical analysis employs multiple regression analysis on a dataset of 2455 Chinese A-share listed companies from 2008 to 2022, examining the relationship between managerial ability and green innovation. To ensure a thorough investigation, we control for both firm-specific and year-specific fixed effects. Our findings reveal a significant positive correlation between managerial ability and green innovation, highlighting the critical role of managerial competencies in enhancing environmental innovation. Notably, subgroup analyses indicate that this relationship is more pronounced in state-owned enterprises, firms with a higher proportion of institutional investors, and in contexts with stricter environmental regulations and less developed product markets. These results not only fill the identified gap in the literature by providing empirical evidence of the impact of managerial ability on green innovation but also offer practical insights for businesses, managers, and policymakers looking to promote sustainable innovation.
Design and characterization of 3D-printed hollow microneedle arrays for transdermal insulin delivery
Authors: Zhang Shuyu , Sims Jenna , Mehochko Isabelle , Zolovick Ryan , Kwak Tyler , Staples Anne
Published: June 2024

The delivery of insulin to diabetic patients remains a challenge due to the limitations of current insulin delivery paradigms, including painful cannula insertion, potential infections, interference with activity, embarrassment, and sometimes cost. To address this problem, we designed and fabricated nine prototypes of stereolithographic 3D-printed microneedle arrays (MNAs) appropriate for the minimally invasive delivery of insulin. We characterized their transdermal penetration performance by delivering fluid at a constant rate to porcine skin through these MNAs. Moreover, we characterized the force required for these MNAs to puncture porcine skin using a mechanical testing apparatus. We developed an improved method of mechanical testing for the MNAs against porcine skin by incorporating an imitation soft tissue layer under the skin and compared the MNA results with those using a single microneedle and a hypodermic needle. In addition, we investigated the mechanical flexural strength of the MNAs by performing a flexural failure load test on them. We confirmed that the prototype MNAs are mechanically robust and do not fracture during skin penetration, setting the stage for future trials in vitro and in vivo. The final, optimized designs are freely available in stereolithography (STL) file format.
Performance analysis of solar thermal storage systems with packed bed utilizing form-stable phase change materials and heat pump integration
Authors: Wang Changling , Gao Yuanzhi , Yang Juan , Liu Baobin , Dai Zhaofeng , Wu DongXu , Xia Yujiang , Yu Jing , Yan Weidong , Zhang Xiaosong
Published: June 2024

Solar energy, a pivotal renewable resource, faces operational challenges due to its intermittent and unstable power output. Thermal energy storage systems emerge as a promising solution, with phase change materials (PCMs) packed beds attracting attention for their compactness and stable temperature transitions. This paper details a laboratory-scale solar thermal storage PCM packed bed integrated with a heat pump, utilizing a novel form-stable PCM. A numerical model was established to assess the thermal storage characteristics and heat extraction performance of the solar PCM packed bed coupled with a heat pump. Simulation results show that increasing solar irradiance significantly reduces storage duration, achieving full thermal storage in 3.4 h at 900 W/m2 irradiance. Optimal starting times were identified as 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m., with later starts resulting in incomplete storage due to the PCM not reaching its phase change temperature. Additionally, packed bed parameters influenced storage conditions; increasing the paraffin content in the PCM extended the phase change duration, while graphene nanoparticles slightly reduced it. Lower porosity (0.49) beds, with higher PCM content, reached 70 °C quicker than higher porosity (0.61) beds due to higher pressure drops promoting more uniform flow and temperature distribution. During heat extraction, coupling the heat pump at 2 liters/min achieved temperatures below 45 °C in 4.1 h, while at 6 liters/min, the time reduced to 1.6 h, demonstrating adaptability to different extraction rates. These findings provide insight into the thermal performance of solar PCM packed beds coupled with heat pumps, contributing to efficient and stable thermal utilization of solar energy.
Interpretation of spatial and temporal changes and drivers of ecological source regions based on LightGBM-SHAP
Authors: Wang Shengwei , Chen Hongquan , Guo Yu lin , Su Wenjing , Xu Yurong , Cui Shuohao , Zhou Zhiqiang
Published: June 2024

Ecological source areas play a pivotal role in nature preservation and soil conservation. These areas are critical in optimizing land-use patterns and fostering the establishment facilitating the establishment of protected ecological source areas. In this study, two types of state layers of ecological source area change were extracted based on land cover data and integrated with an intelligent algorithm to analyze the role of ecological factors contributing to land change. Recommendations are proposed to enhance the optimization of the ecological spatial pattern within the Yellow River Basin. The results indicate key findings: (1) The ecological source areas in the Daxia River Basin experienced Fluctuations between 1990 and 2020 due to the interconversion of grassland and unused land. The change was relatively smooth during 1990–2000, with the ecological source areas increasing slightly by 16.016 km2. From 2000 to 2010, the proportion of unutilized land transferred to grassland was 6.3%, which is significantly higher than the annual transfer average of 1.6%. This is mainly due to the ecological protection measures in the cities of Linxia and Hezuo. Between 2010 and 2020, economic construction resulted in the loss of grassland, and the percentage of grassland turned out was 7.3%, which was significantly higher than the annual average of 1.8%. (2) In the Daxia River Basin, rainfall, sunlight intensity, temperature, and elevation had a greater impact on land change during the period from 1990 to 2020, with contributions of −0.4, 0.09, 0.08, and −0.26, respectively.
Effects of heading date and Epichloë endophyte on persistence of diploid perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne). 1. Heading date
Authors: Tozer Katherine N. , Hume David E. , Cameron Catherine , Greenfield Rose , Dale Tracy , Mace Wade J. , Craven Tony , Faville Marty J.
Published: June 2024

Context Data are lacking on the effects of heading date of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) on ryegrass persistence. Aim We aimed to determine the impact of heading date on perennial ryegrass persistence. Method Two mid-heading (Samson, Bronsyn) and two late-heading (One50, Rohan) cultivars, infected with Epichloë endophytes (AR37, nea2/6 or standard toxic), were established in a replicated plot study grazed by cattle in a subtropical environment of the upper North Island of New Zealand. Persistence characteristics were quantified at least five times per annum, over 4 years. Key results Late-heading cultivars had higher yield, nutritive value, perennial ryegrass content in pasture dry matter, ground cover and tiller density than mid-heading cultivars. There were large seasonal impacts on all ryegrass characteristics, with a major decline over summer and recovery during late autumn into early spring, with less recovery in the final year. Overall, there was a strong linear decline in ryegrass content measured during spring (2018–21). Conclusions The two late-heading cultivars were more persistent than the two mid-heading cultivars, although persistence declined over 4 years for all cultivars. Implications Results support industry recommendations of choosing late-heading cultivars for improved pasture quality and persistence.
Structural insights into the regulation of RyR1 by S100A1
Authors: Weninger Gunnar , Miotto Marco C. , Tchagou Carl , Reiken Steven , Dridi Haikel , Brandenburg Sören , Riedemann Gabriel C. , Yuan Qi , Liu Yang , Chang Alexander , Wronska Anetta , Lehnart Stephan E. , Marks Andrew R.
Published: June 2024

S100A1, a small homodimeric EF-hand Ca2+-binding protein (~21 kDa), plays an important regulatory role in Ca2+signaling pathways involved in various biological functions including Ca2+cycling and contractile performance in skeletal and cardiac myocytes. One key target of the S100A1 interactome is the ryanodine receptor (RyR), a huge homotetrameric Ca2+release channel (~2.3 MDa) of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Here, we report cryoelectron microscopy structures of S100A1 bound to RyR1, the skeletal muscle isoform, in absence and presence of Ca2+. Ca2+-free apo-S100A1 binds beneath the bridging solenoid (BSol) and forms contacts with the junctional solenoid and the shell-core linker of RyR1. Upon Ca2+-binding, S100A1 undergoes a conformational change resulting in the exposure of the hydrophobic pocket known to serve as a major interaction site of S100A1. Through interactions of the hydrophobic pocket with RyR1, Ca2+-bound S100A1 intrudes deeper into the RyR1 structure beneath BSol than the apo-form and induces sideways motions of the C-terminal BSol region toward the adjacent RyR1 protomer resulting in tighter interprotomer contacts. Interestingly, the second hydrophobic pocket of the S100A1-dimer is largely exposed at the hydrophilic surface making it prone to interactions with the local environment, suggesting that S100A1 could be involved in forming larger heterocomplexes of RyRs with other protein partners. Since S100A1 interactions stabilizing BSol are implicated in the regulation of RyR-mediated Ca2+release, the characterization of the S100A1 binding site conserved between RyR isoforms may provide the structural basis for the development of therapeutic strategies regarding treatments of RyR-related disorders.