bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
JESUS CHRIST AS EXEMPLAR OF PEACE AND PEACEBUILDING
Authors: Abolaji Tosin Success , OLORUNNIMBE Michael Oladele
Published: June 2024

The idea of peace in a human society contradicts God’s original intention about the peace He bestowed man at the time of creation. Man was created and placed in the Garden of Eden where he enjoyed all things including peace of mind and fellowship with His Maker but these became severed because man sinned against God. Jesus was believed to be God’s incarnate, the ultimate sacrifice for man’s redemption and the model for an ideal godly person whom God had initially created man to be. Peace in the real sense cannot be achieved in a chaotic atmosphere especially where strive, envy, jealousy, hatred and selfishness exist which cannot be found in Jesus Christ. Hence, the aim of this paper is to consider the personality of Jesus Christ as an exemplar of peace and peace building. Therefore, the methods adopted in this study are historical and descriptive. It was discovered that during Jesus’ earthly ministry, He lived a life worthy of great emulation as He stood in the middle of the society of His days carrying out His assignments in the face of haters yet displayed a grandiose attitude of peace and peace-building to His audience. The study recommended that the society should live a Christ life-pattern pursuing peace with all men as richly found in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
The Influence Mechanism of College Students’ Physical Exercise Behavior, Life Satisfaction, and Self-Efficacy
Authors: Gong Jian , Yang Yuanyao , Feng Yong , Zhang Dan , Zhao Yang
Published: July 2024

College students play an important role in higher education and future social life. Research has a significant impact on college students' self-efficacy. Taking college students in Chengdu, China as an example, this study adopts the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method, comprehensively incorporating various influencing factors such as demographic characteristics, physical exercise behavior, and life satisfaction. From the perspective of physical exercise behavior and life satisfaction, an asymmetric causal model that affects college students' high self-efficacy is constructed. The research results support the main principles of complexity theory, confirming the heterogeneity and complexity of the antecedent conditions for high self-efficacy among college students. Nineteen causal condition combinations that can promote high self-efficacy among college students are obtained. This study conducts exploratory research on the introduction of complexity theory analysis into the study of college students' physical exercise, life satisfaction, and self-efficacy. It also provides a decision-making reference path for improving the life satisfaction, physical exercise behavior, and self-efficacy of college students.
Beyond Streptococcus: An essential work-up for differential
diagnosis of pediatric chorea
Authors: Rossi Elisa , Tardivo Irene , CORTESIA ILARIA , Strano Concetta , Davitto Bava Mirella , Spada Marco , Torta Francesca
Published: July 2024

Background: Chorea is a neurological disorder characterized by random, fluid movements that may affect the limbs, trunk, neck or face. In children, Sydenham's chorea (SC) is the most common cause of acute chorea, mainly following group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) infection. Other autoimmune and metabolic disorders may also cause chorea.
Case presentation: We report the case of a 6-year-old girl who developed chorea following cardiac surgery for mitral insufficiency. One week after discharge, the patient presented with right-sided hyposthenia, slower speech, mild dysarthria and sialorrhea. Brain MRI and intracranial MRI angiography revealed a small vascular focus consistent with a microembolic event. Extensive diagnostic investigations, including serum panels for autoimmune encephalitis, neurotropic viruses and metabolic disorders, were negative.
Conclusion: Considering the patient's history, clinical course, and exclusion of other potential causes, a diagnosis of post-pump chorea was made. This case underlines the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis in pediatric chorea and highlights post-pump chorea as a significant postoperative complication in pediatric cardiac surgery. The patient's motor symptoms improved with symptomatic treatment and follow-up showed good recovery without neurological sequelae.
Harnessing Artificial Neural Networks for Spinal Cord Injury Prognosis
Authors: Tamburella Federica , Lena Emanuela , Mascanzoni Marta , Iosa Marco , Scivoletto Giorgio
Published: July 2024

Background: Prediction of neurorehabilitation outcomes after a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is crucial for healthcare resource management and improving prognosis and rehabilitation strategies. Arti-ficial neural networks (ANNs) have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional statistical approaches for identifying complex prognostic factors in SCI patients.
Materials: a database of 1256 SCI patients admitted for rehabilitation was analyzed. Clinical and demographics data and SCI characteristics, were used to predict functional outcomes using both ANN and linear regression models. The former was structured with input, hidden, and output layers, while the linear regression identified significant variables affecting outcomes. Both ap-proaches aimed to evaluate and compare their predictive accuracy for rehabilitation outcomes measured by the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) score.
Results: Both ANN and linear regression models identified key predictors of functional outcomes, such as age, injury level, and initial SCIM scores (correlation with actual outcome: R=0.75 and 0.73, respectively). When alimented also with parameters recorded during hospitalization, the ANN highlighted the importance of these additional factors like motor completeness and compli-cations during hospitalization, showing an improvement in its predictive accuracy (R=0.87).
Conclusion: ANN seemed to be not widely superior to classical statistics in general, but, taking into account complex and non-linear relationships among variables, emphasized the impact of complications during the hospitalization on recovery, particularly respiratory issues, deep vein thrombosis, and urological complications. These results suggested that the management of com-plications is crucial for improving functional recovery in SCI patients.
Austronautic Registers: Translation Strategies and Acceptability
Authors: Hakim Azhar L , Kholifah Asrofin Nur , Purwaningsih Dyah R
Published: June 2024

This study aims to investigate the translation strategies to translate the astronautic registers as well as the acceptability aspect of the translation. The data comprise 74 astronautic registers in the source text and translated version of The Martian novel. A questionnaire with inputs from the respondents is also put into consideration. The results show that 6 translation strategies consist of translation by a more general word (12%), translation by a more neutral or less expressive word (22%), translation by loan word and loan word plus explanation (17%), translation by paraphrase using related words (31%), translation by paraphrase using unrelated words (15%), translation by omission (3%). This implied most of the registers actually has a similar equivalent in the TL, but the form has to be modified in the TL to capture the main message. Furthermore, in terms of acceptability, 58% data are acceptable, 35% data are less acceptable, and 7% data are unacceptable. It indicates there are still a high number of translations that fail to capture the intended meaning of the registers, bear no nuance as a technical term, and sound unnatural in the TL.
ANALISIS MINAT BEKERJA DAN STUDI LANJUT SISWA JURUSAN TEKNIK PEMESINAN TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR DAN EKONOMI DI SMK NEGERI 4 SUKOHARJO
Authors: Hapsari Zaena , Mustafiq Roni , Mustofa Rizal , Lestari Tri Widodo , Udin Sahrul , Estriyanto Yuyun , Iswanto Iswanto
Published: June 2024

SMK merupakan sekolah menengah dengan tujuan menciptakan lulusan yang dapat bekerja, melanjutkan studi ke jenjang yang lebih tinggi, dan berwirausaha. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor berikut: 1) pengaruh akademik dan ekonomi terhadap minat siswa SMK di Surakarta untuk bekerja; dan 2) pengaruh akademik dan ekonomi terhadap minat siswa SMK untuk studi lanjut. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif deskriptif. Populasi yang digunakan sebesar 452 siswa dengan pengambilan sampel secara Simple Random Sample sebanyak 213 siswa. Metode pengumpulan data adalah dengan menggunakan angket kuesioner. Teknik analisis yang digunakan yaitu teknik analisis regresi linear berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa: 1) ada pengaruh yang siginifikan antara variabel akademik terhadap minat bekerja dengan nilai sig 0.023 < 0.05. 2) ada pengaruh yang signifikan antara variabel ekonomi terhadap minat bekerja dengan nilai sig 0.00<0.05. 3) ada pengaruh yang signifikan antara variabel akademik terhadap minat studi lanjut dengan nilai signifikansi 0.046 < 0.05. 4) tidak ada pengaruh yang signifikan antara variabel ekonomi terhadap minat studi lanjut dengan nilai signifikansi 0.174 > 0.05.
Influence of Pilot Hole and Work Material Hardness on Thread Milling with a Wireless Holder System
Authors: Matsui Shota , Ozaki Nobutoshi , Hirogaki Toshiki , Aoyama Eiichi , Matsuda Ryo
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the effects of simultaneously machining pilot holes and threads, as well as the accuracy of thread machining after pilot hole drilling. In addition, the thread machining of S50C and SKD61, which are work materials with different hardness, was also examined. Furthermore, a smart machining method for thread milling using helical interpolation was developed by monitoring cutting data using a wireless holder. The results show that the proposed monitoring method is effective for improving the accuracy of thread machining using helical interpolation motion of the threading tool. Moreover, this study discussed the differences in results due to the presence or absence of pilot holes. Finally, the influence of the hardness of the work material on the results was analyzed.
Effect of Different Feed Rates on Chip Evacuation in Drilling of Lead-Free Brass with a Small-Diameter Drill
Authors: Naruki Tadaaki , Suzuki Kenichi , Kato Hideharu , Sakamoto Shigehiko , Seto Masahiro , Katayama Jin , Oka Takayuki
Published: July 2024

Free-cutting brass is a material whose machinability is improved by the addition of lead. It is used in a wide range of applications because of its high electrical conductivity and antibacterial properties. However, the use of lead is restricted by laws and regulations to reduce environmental damage. Therefore, the lead in free-cutting brass is being replaced by bismuth or silicon. The machinability of lead-free brass, improved by these additives, has been confirmed to be sufficient for milling and turning. However, when drilling deep small-diameter holes in leadless brass, the problem of premature drill breakage occurs due to chips clumping and clogging in the drill flutes. In a previous study, drilling of holes with an aspect ratio of nine was performed using a 1.0 mm diameter cemented carbide drill, and it was confirmed that the addition of trace elements improved the chip breaking and chip evacuation. However, the waveform of thrust force during machining demonstrated a decreasing trend, and the original machining conditions were not attained. In this study, the effect of feed rate on chip evacuation was investigated using a 0.5 mm diameter twist drill, which is subject to severe chip evacuation at high cutting speeds. As a result of examining chip evacuation by varying the feed rate, the chip evacuation exhibited good performance; where bellows-like chips were evacuated under a slow feed rate, and long-pitch chips were evacuated under a high feed rate. In the drilling process using these feed rates with good chip evacuation, 10,000 holes could be drilled, but the shape of the top of the hole was distorted and the straightness was poor at a slow feed rate. In contrast, hole accuracy was good at a high feed rate, further indicating that a high feed rate with long-pitch-shaped chip evacuation is effective for high efficiency when drilling deep holes of small diameters.
Advanced Sensing and Machine Learning Technologies for Intelligent Measurement in Smart and Precision Manufacturing
Authors: Sato Ryo , Li Kuangyi , Michihata Masaki , Takahashi Satoru , Gao Wei
Published: July 2024

This paper provides an overview of state-of-the-art sensing and machine learning technologies for intelligent measurement in smart and precision manufacturing. Length, angle, and force are identified as the fundamental quantities for production quality management based on process monitoring as well as geometrical metrology in optical lithography and mechanical machining. Advancements in length-based measurement technologies such as laser interferometers and optical encoders, as well as advancements regarding depth and thickness measurements, are presented. Various types of optical microscopes, such as evanescent field microscopes, structured illumination microscopes, and confocal microscopes, are also described. For angle-based measurement technologies, in addition to the conventional continuous-wave laser autocollimators, the newly developed Fabry–Pérot angle sensor and nonlinear optics angle sensor using an ultrashort pulse laser are presented. Finally, on-machine and in-process force sensing and machining learning techniques for dimensional and machining process monitoring are reviewed.
What Makes An Effective Vocational High School Entrepreneurial Leadership? Experience From Indonesia
Authors: Agustin Hanivia Cindy Cindy
Published: June 2024

The government encourages vocational high schools (SMK) to carry out organizational transformation to become SMKs for Regional Public Service Bodies (SMK-BLUD). Through BLUDs, SMKs that have excellent products can manage finances and production processes more flexibly without violating regulations, so that entrepreneurial leadership effectiveness can be achieved. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the effectiveness of entrepreneurial leadership in vocational high schools using PLS-SEM analysis. Data was obtained by distributing questionnaires to 180 respondents, including teachers, school principals, and committee members at 23 SMK-BLUDs in East Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta. It is known that the variables of regulation, teacher support, self-capacity, and infrastructure have a positive and significant influence on the quality of entrepreneurial leadership. In addition, the existence of partnerships for each school indirectly has a positive and significant influence on the quality of entrepreneurial leadership. The results of this model show a predictive relevance (Q2) value of 0.96, meaning that this model has good predictive relevance.
Islamic Educational Institution Al Jam'iyatul Washliyah under the Leadership of Muhammad Arsyad Talib Lubis (1930-1972)
Authors: Dabutar Muhammad Saukani , Sarkadi  , Fakhruddin M.
Published: June 2024

This study explores the role of Muhammad Arsyad Thalib Lubis in Islamic education and the organization of Al Jam'iyatul Washliyah in North Sumatra between 1930-1972. This study uses historical methods to reconstruct events related to Muhammad Arsyad Talib Lubis and his influence on the development of Islamic education. Data was collected through literature studies and interviews. The results showed that Muhammad Arsyad Talib Lubis, who was born in Stabat, Langkat, in 1908, had played an essential role in establishing Al Washliyah University and developing Al Jam'iyatul Washliyah from a debating club into an influential educational organization. Lubis died on July 6, 1972, but his legacy and principles still live among Al Washliyah's disciples and the wider community.
The Impact of Education Quality and Self-Ability on Students' Decisions to Choose an Islamic Education Program in Higher Education: Exploring the Mediating Role of Brand Image
Authors: Soimah Harni , Al Baqi Safiruddin , Daryono Rihab Wit
Published: June 2024

Educational institutions that succeed in building a positive brand image, providing quality education, and supporting the development of student's self-ability will have an advantage in attracting prospective students and maintaining their loyalty. This research aims to explore the role of brand image as a mediator on the influence of educational quality, self-ability, and student decisions. The survey method was used to collect data based on probability sampling of 457 students of the 2021 IAIN Ponorogo Islamic Religious Education study program. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire consisting of a Likert scale with 4 alternative answers. PLS-SEM analysis was used to analyze data and test the conceptual model. The results of the analysis show that the quality of education does not have a significant effect on students' decisions to choose the Islamic Religious Education study program. These findings emphasize the importance of strengthening the brand image of educational institutions as a mediator that influences the relationship between educational quality, self-ability, and student decisions. Therefore, educational institutions need to pay attention to strategies to strengthen their brand image in order to increase their attractiveness in the eyes of prospective students and provide a more meaningful educational experience.
Contribution Of Self Determination To Encourage Student Academic Performance In Online Learning
Authors: Candrawati Krisnita
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to examines the role of self-determination in encouraging student academic performance through online learning. Using  TTF framewor, this study uses a quantitative approach with path analysis. The population used is Yogyakarta students while the sample used is 162 students. Analysis using partial regression analysis (Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM). The software used is smartPLS 3.0. The results showed that there is a mediating role of user satisfaction in the influence of student self determination on academic performance. This research shows that self-determination is a variable that higher education managers should consider when implementing online learning. This research adds a self-determination variable to the TTF framework. This is based on the phenomenon of minimal participation in online learning. This research also confirms the TTF framework on performance which has never been studied in a higher education setting. The implications of this research underscore the importance of SD as a component in online learning that higher education managers should pay attention to. The results of this study explain that SD effects AP through student satisfaction in participating in online learning
Intraspecific Differentiation of Francisella tularensis Strains Using Molecular-Genetic Methods. Complex Approach
Authors: Osina N. A. , Sitmbetov D. A. , Morozov O. A. , Bulgakova E. G. , Osin A. V. , Chekmareva S. S. , Sazanova E. V. , Senichkina A. M. , Lyashova O. Yu. , Polunina T. A. , Krasnov Ya. M. , Devdariani Z. L. , Shcherbakova S. A.
Published: July 2024

The aim of the study was to develop an algorithm for intraspecific differentiation of tularemia agent strains using a set of approaches based on amplification and sequencing technologies.

Materials and methods. 97 strains of Francisella tularensis of various subspecies, biovars and subpopulations from the State Collection of Pathogenic Bacteria of the Russian Research Anti-Plague Institute “Microbe” were used in the work. The intraspecific identification of tularemia agent strains was carried out using the “F. tularensis-4c” system; analysis of the variability of the RD1 differentiation region, the sdhA gene, by applying the disk diffusion method using disks with erythromycin. Fragment Sanger sequencing was performed on a 3500 XL genetic analyzer (Applied Biosystems, USA) taking into account the manufacturer’s recommendations. Sequence homology assessment was conducted using the BLAST algorithm, the GenBank NCBI database, MEGA11 v11.0.13 and Unipro UGENE v50.0 software.

Results and discussion. Subspecies- and biovarspecific mutations have been detected in the 23S rRNA gene. Promising regions of this gene for further investigation have been identified using fragment sequencing. A comprehensive scheme for intraspecific differentiation of tularemia microbe strains has been put forward, where at the first stage the subspecies and biovar japonica are determined, and at the second stage, the results are verified based on the determination of mutations in the 23S rRNA gene. The effectiveness of the proposed integrated approach has been confirmed in a study of 97 collection strains of tularemia agent. The conducted research allows for rapid identification of tularemia agent strains of different subspecies and verification of their taxonomic appurtenance using molecular-genetic methods, expanding data on the circulation of various subspecies, biovars and subpopulations of the pathogen in Europe, Asia and other regions of the world.
Motivation of Iraqi Non-English Majors in Learning English
Authors: Abdualhussein Muna , Kadhim Hanan Abdul-Kareem , Jaber Hind Fareed
Published: June 2024

This study examines the significance of motivation in English Language Teaching (ELT) among non-English majors at Al-Farahidi University in Iraq. While English courses are mandatory, effective communication remains a challenge. This research addresses the gap in understanding student-directed motivation, specifically in the Iraqi academic setting. Using a descriptive approach, a questionnaire was distributed to 50 third-year students at the College of Administration and Economics, assessing their attitudes and motivation towards learning English. The findings revealed high levels of motivation, with students recognizing the necessity of English for communication and career prospects, despite some perceiving it as complicated and irrelevant to their major. Statistically significant differences in motivation were observed based on age but not gender. The study suggests that aligning instructional approaches with students' intrinsic and extrinsic motivations can enhance engagement and improve English proficiency among non-English majors, contributing valuable insights to the discourse on motivation in language learning within the Iraqi higher education context.
Highlights:

High Motivation Level: Students recognize the necessity of English for communication and career prospects.
Age-Based Differences: Statistically significant differences in motivation were observed based on age.
Instructional Adaptation: Aligning teaching methods with intrinsic and extrinsic motivations can enhance student engagement and proficiency.

Keywords: Motivation, Non-English Majors, Extrinsic Motivations
Research on night-time vehicle target detection based on improved KSC-YOLO V5
Authors: Guo Jun , Shao MengZhen , Chen XinYu , Yang Yang , Sun EnHui
Published: July 2024

In challenging night-time settings, drivers often struggle to discern nearby vehicles accurately, resulting in traffic incidents caused by intricate lighting conditions and the dim visibility, blurring, and occlusion of vehicles. To address this issue, this study introduces an advanced method utilizing the enhanced YOLOv5 algorithm, designed to improve the detection of vehicles during night driving and ensure detection accuracy in low-light environments. Initially, SKAttention is integrated into the network's Backbone layer to address overlapping and redundant information within the model. This is achieved by generating multiple pathways with varying convolutional kernel sizes, which correspond to the different sensory field sizes of neurons, thus enhancing information processing efficiency. Subsequently, the model's original up-sampling operator is replaced with the Content-Aware Feature Reorganization (CARAFE), leveraging underlying content information to predict the reorganization kernel and reassemble predefined neighborhood features. This ensures the preservation of feature map quality post-zooming. Moreover, the incorporation of SIOU significantly enhances the model's ability to pinpoint defect locations with greater accuracy, leading to improvements in both training speed and inference accuracy. Experimental outcomes demonstrate that the optimized model, KSC-YOLOv5, surpasses the baseline YOLOv5 model, showing a mean average precision (mAP) increase of 2 percentage points to 91.2%. Additionally, when compared with other iterations of the YOLO algorithm, KSC-YOLOv5 exhibits superior performance in terms of average detection accuracy. This refined model effectively navigates the challenges posed by inadequate lighting and vehicle blurring in nocturnal environments, achieving precise vehicle detection.
Photocatalytic Performance of Pristine NiO and Ni6MnO8 Nanopowders in Degradation of Rose Bengal Dye
Authors: chamola Shailendra , Kala Shubhra
Published: July 2024

The present paper describes synthesis of nickel oxide and Ni6MnO8 nanopowders by simple hydrothermal technique. During the synthesis of nickel oxide by hydrothermal process addition of Mn source resulted in the formation of Ni6MnO8. X-ray diffraction analysis has confirmed the formation nickel oxide and Ni6MnO8 both having cubic structures. The average crystallite size decreases from 20 nm to 12 nm on increasing Mn source concentration during the synthesis of nickel oxide. Rectangular, hexagonal and triangular faceted structures were revealed from the scanning electron microscopic images. Ni6MnO8 nanopowder found to display optical bandgap around 2.65 eV. The photocatalytic properties of synthesized nickel oxide and Ni6MnO8 nanopowders were measured by using Rose Bengal dye under UV illumination. Enhancement in the photocatalytic activity was noticed in the case of Ni6MnO8 nanopowder as compared to nickel oxide nanopowder. Nearly 90% dye degradation was observed on utilizing Ni6MnO8 nanopowder.
A new two-step robust strategy for estimating the line of sight rate of optical seekers having time delay
Authors: Karimi Jalal , Mohammadnejad Saeid , Babaie Alireza
Published: July 2024

The current research is dedicated to line-of-sight rate estimation for a pitch-yaw gimballed imaging infrared seeker mechanism. The line of sight rate estimation problem has a highly nonlinear dynamic that is affected by various error sources such as measurement noise, significant coupling of vehicle channels, and time-delayed seeker detector measurements along with unknown target maneuvers. In order to consider these error sources, a new line-of-sight rate estimation approach is proposed via a two-step strategy. In the first step, an adaptive discrete-time super-twisting observer with an arbitrary convergence time approach is proposed that estimates line of sight rate, in presence of all errors except the delay. In the second step, a delay compensator is presented based on Super-Twisting Observer method to compensate the seeker delay. To increase the estimation accuracy, nonlinear dynamic equations are used and the simulations are implemented to a Software-In the-Loop test bed. The superiority of proposed approach is approved via various simulations and comparison with previously presented methods.
Analysis of the spiral structure and operating parameters of a vascular robot
Authors: Liang Liang , Xia Haoyu , Duan Xiangping
Published: July 2024

Designing the reasonable spiral structure and operating parameters of a vascular robot to improve the hemodynamic indicators is an important foundation for the non-invasive diagnosis and treatment of an interventional robot. This paper considers a pulsatile blood flow and an elastic blood vessel, and uses a bidirectional fluid structure interaction (FSI) method to numerically analyze the hemodynamic indicators such as blood flow velocity, blood pressure, vascular wall shear stress and vascular deformation under different spiral structures, translational speeds and rotational speeds of the interventional robot. Based on the particle image velocimetry (PIV) technology, the pulsating fluid flow field measurement system for the magnetic in-pipe robot was used to measure the fluid velocity around the robot during its precession. The results show that as the translational speed and rotational speed of the spiral robot are increased, the maximum blood pressure and the maximum deformation of the blood vessel are both slowly increased in a wavy manner. The average vascular wall shear stress is increased with the increase of the translational speed of the spiral robot, and the average vascular wall shear stress for the semicircular spiral robot is slightly greater than that for the triangular spiral robot. The distribution and magnitude of the calculated results are basically similar to those of the measured results.
The association between cardiometabolic index (CMI) and Periodontitis in US adults from NHANES (2009- 2014)
Authors: Chang Xingtao , Song Jukun , Du Xue , Sun Jiangling , Chen Xianrun , Zhang Jiqin , Luo Yi , Bai Guohui
Published: July 2024

Background: Cardiometabolic index (CMI) is a novel indicator to predict the risk of diseases related to obesity. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between cardiometabolic index (CMI) and periodontitis utilizing the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2009–2014).
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database (2009–2014) to examine the potential association between CMI and periodontitis. The study employed a weighted multivariate logistic model and dose-response curves to evaluate the association between CMI and PD, along with subgroup analysis and interaction tests to explore consistency across various populations.
Results: The study included a total of 4766 subjects. Following adjustment for all potential covariates, an increase of 1 unit in CMI was associated with a 0.16 times higher risk of periodontitis in the general population (1.16 [1.10, 1.30], p < 0.01). In the fully adjusted classification model, compared to the lowest quantile array Q1 of CMI as the reference group, the second quantile group Q2 and third quantile group Q3 had a 0.19 times (1.20 [1.02, 1.41], p < 0.05) and 0.33 times (1.33 [1.20, 1.60], p< 0.01) higher risk of periodontitis, respectively. The above results indicated that the likelihood of developing periodontitis rises in tandem with elevations in the cardiometabolic index, and the dose–response curves showed that CMI index was linearly related to the risk of periodontitis. The results of the subgroup population were consistent with the total population.
Conclusions: Our results indicated that an elevated CMI is correlated with the increased risk for periodontitis. Early intervention is needed to prevent periodontitis in those with high CMI levels.
Multi-omics analysis identifies THY1 as a gallstone risk gene
Authors: WANG XINXING , MA MINGZE , ZHU LICHAO , QIN CHUAN , SHAO SHUAI , XU XIANWEN , GAO RUXIN , ZHANG ZHENHAI
Published: July 2024

Background
Cholesterol gallstones are a disease with increasing incidence due to improvements in living standards. This study aims to investigate the impact of highly expressed THY1 in the gallbladder on disease progression during gallstone formation.
Methods
We conducted multi-omics analyses, including transcriptomics, proteomics, and single-cell sequencing, to examine changes in the gallbladder during gallstone formation. We used a gallstone mouse model induced by a lithogenic diet and a THY1 knockdown gallstone mouse model via sh-RNA to assess the role of THY1 in gallstone formation. HE staining and qRT-PCR were performed to measure inflammation levels in THY1 knockdown mice during gallstone formation. Western Blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of FN and COL I to determine the role of THY1 in ECM synthesis during gallstone progression. Kits were used to measure bile acids, phospholipids, cholesterol, and triglycerides, and the cholesterol saturation index (CSI) was calculated.
Results
THY1 expression was significantly elevated in gallbladder fibroblasts during gallstone formation. Knockdown of THY1 alleviated gallstone formation induced by a lithogenic diet in mice. In THY1 knockdown mice, cholesterol levels in gallbladder bile were significantly reduced, bile acid concentration increased, and the CSI index decreased. Additionally, the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the gallbladders of THY1 knockdown mice was reduced, leading to decreased gallbladder inflammation. ECM synthesis in the gallbladders of THY1 knockdown mice was also alleviated.
Conclusion
This study reveals that high expression of THY1 in gallbladder fibroblasts promotes the progression of gallstones by increasing inflammation levels and ECM synthesis.
Incidence of ophthalmic manifestations in congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Authors: Rossen Jennifer L. , Hindi Abdelhamid , Rahmani Safa , Bohnsack Brenda L.
Published: July 2024

Background
Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections are associated with eye manifestations, especially in patients with systemic disease. However, there are no ophthalmic screening guidelines for infants with congenital CMV.
Methods
Retrospective review of pediatric patients (< 18 years old, 2010–2023) with a diagnosis of congenital CMV and at least 1 eye examination. Gestational age at birth, systemic findings, and ophthalmic findings at initial and final eye examinations were collected.
Results
Seventy-two patients (47% male) with congenital CMV underwent initial eye examination at 2.1 ± 2.9 years of age (median 0.3 years). Thirty-one patients (43%) only had one eye examination while 41 patients had follow-up (1 month-19 years). Fifty-two patients (72%) had systemic findings, most commonly hearing loss (50%), neurologic abnormalities (39%), and developmental delay (38%). Patients born < 36 weeks gestation (n = 15) had a higher rate of systemic findings, neurologic abnormalities, developmental delay, and intrauterine growth restriction compared to full-term patients. Twenty-four (33%) patients had ocular findings and all also had systemic manifestations. Strabismus (26%) and optic nerve abnormalities (17%) were most common. Only 2 patients (3%) were diagnosed with retinitis, which was detected at initial examination.
Conclusions
One-third of patients with congenital CMV had ocular findings in conjunction with systemic manifestations. Retinitis was rare and detected on initial eye examination. While initial screening for retinitis is important, patients with systemic sequelae of congenital CMV are at risk for other eye manifestations and require continued follow-up.
Evaluation Model for Equipping Urban Regions with Intelligent Transportation Based on the Combination of Euclidean and Manhattan Distances
Authors: Dorji Yasamin , Rafsanjani Ali Khaksari , AsadAmraji Morteza
Published: July 2024

Nowadays, the stratification of transportation has led to an enhancement of efficiency and a reduction in traffic and transportation issues. Intelligent transportation requires smart systems and equipment. This study presents a novel method for evaluating intelligent transportation systems (ITS) in urban regions. It emphasizes the necessity of assessing ITS quality and quantity in cities to determine the effectiveness in different urban regions. The research adopts a mixed-method approach to devise an evaluation model, focusing on five urban regions of Tehran (regions 3, 4, 12, 10, and 22). Thirteen indicators were selected to assess ITS development through multi-criteria decision-making methods, combining Shannon Entropy and best-worst methods to measure criteria effectively. Data were gathered via a questionnaire targeted at urban planning and transportation experts, producing 70 valid responses from an online survey. The evaluation employed the CODAS method, recognized for its robust control features. Results identified "The number of intelligent central control systems for traffic lights at intersections" as the pivotal indicator, with region 4 of Tehran scoring the highest. These findings provide crucial insights for scholars and policymakers, enhancing understanding of ITS evaluation and supporting budget allocations for such systems. The research's innovation lies in its unique approach to ITS assessment, integrating both quantitative data and expert opinions, which establishes a comprehensive framework for future evaluations in urban transportation planning. This contributes significantly to the academic and practical realms of transportation engineering, offering a strategic perspective on the deployment and enhancement of intelligent transportation frameworks in urban regions.
Estimation of redundancy in microbial genomes
Authors: Bohlin Jon , Pettersson John H.-O. , Pettersson John H.-O.
Published: July 2024

Background
Microbial genomes vary considerably both with respect to size and base composition. While the smallest genomes have less than 200,000 base pairs, or nucleotides, others can consist of millions. The same is true for genomic base composition, often summarized as genomic AT or GC content due to the similar frequencies of (A)denine and (T)hymine on one hand and (C)ytosine and (G)uanine on the other; the most extreme microbes can have genomes with AT content below 25% or above 85%. Genomic AT content influences the frequency of DNA words, or oligonucleotides, consisting of multiple nucleotides. Here we explore to what extent genome size, AT/GC content and genomic oligonucleotide usage variance (OUV) are linked to microbial genome redundancy, or compression rate, as measured using both a DNA based- (MBGC) and a general purpose (ZPAQ) compression algorithm on 4,713 RefSeq genomes.
Results
We find that genome size (p < 0.001) and OUV (p < 0.001) are both strongly associated with genome redundancy for both types of file compressors. The DNA based MBGC compressor managed to improve compression with approximately 3% on average with respect to ZPAQ. Moreover, MBGC detected a significant (p < 0.001) compression ratio difference between AT poor and AT rich genomes that was not detected with ZPAQ.
Conclusion
As lack of compressibility is equivalent to the presence of randomness, our findings suggest that small and AT rich genomes may have accumulated more random mutations on average than larger and AT poor/GC rich genomes, which, in turn, were significantly more redundant. Moreover, we find that OUV is a strong proxy for genome compressibility in microbial genomes. The ZPAQ compressor was found to agree with the MBGC compressor, albeit with a poorer performance, except for the compressibility of AT-rich and AT-poor genomes.
Sibling Gender Dynamics and Childhood Malnutrition in Ghana
Authors: Mensah Peter Annor , Sawyerr Ruth Tobi , Christian Aaron Kobina
Published: July 2024

Background:
Stunting remains a public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite the evolving awareness of the effect of family composition on child health outcomes, the influence of sibling gender on stunting has seldom been consistent. The current study investigated the association between sibling composition and stunting among children under 5 years in Ghana.
Methods
This cross-sectional study utilized data from the most recent Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS 2022), focusing on 4412 mother-child dyads. Stunting prevalence was assessed through descriptive analysis, while logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the association between sibling composition and identify other risk factors associated with stunting.
Results
The prevalence of stunting among children under five years of age was 18%. It was observed from the composite and sex-stratified models that having male siblings increased children’s odds of being stunted. Furthermore, being a male child (OR: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.94) and belonging to a household with an unimproved water supply (OR: 10.9; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.82) increased children's likelihood of stunting.
Conclusion
This study revealed that the extra nutrients male children require for healthy growth and development may heighten competition for nutrients, especially in resource-constrained households. Parents and guardians are advised to be consciously aware of the subtle and apparent competition between siblings and take appropriate measures to prevent children’s deprivation of nutrition by their male siblings.
Optimizing grassland productivity and sustainability: effects of a legume or N fertiliser application on N cycling
Authors: Borré João , Ramalho Israel , Monteiro Rafael , Souza Wesley , Soares Stallone , Souza Lígia , Alves Bruno , Casagrande Daniel , Homem Bruno , Boddey Robert , Macedo Robert , Urquiaga Segundo
Published: July 2024

The absence of grazing management, coupled with limited N replacement, significantly promotes grassland degradation. Nitrogen input via fertiliser or biological fixation is critical for achieving productive and sustainable grassland systems. This two-year study assessed the N cycling of three pasture types (PTs): 1) mixed Marandu palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha) and perennial horse gram (Macrotyloma axillare) without N fertiliser (Mixed); 2) monoculture Marandu palisadegrass fertilised with 138 kg N ha− 1 yr− 1 (N-fertilised); and 3) monoculture Marandu palisadegrass without N fertiliser (Unfertilised). Litter responses, forage and N intake, N livestock excretion and N cycling were measured. There were no differences between PTs for the existing litter (an average of 3,485 kg ha− 1; P = 0.204). More N was cycled via litter in the Mixed pasture than N-fertilised and Unfertilised pastures (95.7 vs. 63.6 and 51.8 kg N ha− 1 season− 1; P < 0.001). There was no difference between PTs for the total N excretion per animal (an average of 79.5 g animal d− 1; P = 0.727). However, per hectare, total N excretion in the N-fertilised pasture increased 20.4 and 22.5% than Mixed and Unfertilised pastures, respectively (P = 0.010). In the N-fertilised and Mixed pastures, there was a positive overall change of N in the soil-plant-animal system of 83.5 and 28 kg N ha− 1 year− 1, respectively. In the Unfertilised pasture, there was an overall negative change of N in the soil-plant-animal system of -27 kg N ha− 1 year− 1. Nitrogen application or perennial horse gram integration in a grass pasture increased the conservation of soil N reserves.
Parents’ multilingual storytelling in the school setting: evaluating influence on family language practices
Authors: Facciani Chiara
Published: June 2024

The linguistic choices parents make while communicating with their bi- and multilingual children is fundamental to the development of their children’s linguistic repertoire and multilingual development. The involvement of parents in the implementation of multilingual pedagogies can play a fundamental role in fostering parents’ awareness on topics related to multilingualism. This paper illustrates school-based multilingual storytelling activities conducted by parents in a pre-school in northern Italy. The activity was designed as part of the project L’AltRoparlante (Carbonara & Scibetta, 2020), an Italian network of schools which adopted multilingual pedagogies at curricular level. The findings suggest that involving parents in multilingual pedagogies have a positive influence on family language use as they encourage children’s linguistic diversity awareness and parents’ biliteracy planning. Parents’ involvement in multilingual pedagogy can be a useful tool to build inclusive home-school collaborations and to guide parents in shaping multilingual storytelling activities at home.
Simulating residual stresses formed in the technological sequence of shot-impact treatment–flap-wheel trimming
Authors: Le Tri Vinh , Koltsov V. P. , Starodubtseva D. A.
Published: July 2024

The paper aims to study the stress-strain state of the surface layer in a VT95 aluminum alloy part during its shot-impact treatment in the sequence of “shot-impact treatment–flap-wheel trimming” operations. The research objects included large parts, such as panels and cladding of complex shapes used in aircraft, missile, and shipbuilding industries. Computer simulation in the Ansys Workbench 19.0 software package was used to develop a methodology for determining residual stresses. As a result of simulating the studied treatment sequence, a visual representation of the residual stress formation pattern, as well as physical values and distribution curves of residual stresses, were obtained. The distribution pattern of residual stresses after performing two types of treatment was established to be similar. The maximum value of residual stresses, obtained as a result of performing a shot-impact treatment of the part surface with a shot of 3.0 mm in diameter at a shot-impact rate of 25 m/s, reaches about 600 MPa at a depth of 1.0 mm. Following the shot-impact treatment, flap-wheel trimming is performed in the finite element simulation as a set of abrasive grains at a rate of 18.316 m/s. The removal of the 25-, 50-, and 75-μm layer from the surface of the plate during trimming contributes to the shearing of the upper part in the residual stress diagram and, as a result, to a decrease in the values of residual stresses in the shot-impact treatment–flap-wheel trimming sequence to 400 MPa. In addition, along with an increase in the thickness of the layer removed from the surface during trimming, the value of residual stresses decreases more slowly. In this case, the thickness of the removed layer causes no effect on the depth of residual compression stresses (about 0.7 mm). The developed finite element model makes it possible to predict and control the level and magnitude of residual stresses in an aluminum alloy sample at the stage of its preparation for both a shot-impact treatment operation and the combination of shotimpact treatment and flap-wheel trimming.
Voltage control in low-voltage distribution networks in the context of introducing home charging stations for electric vehicles
Authors: Voronin V. A. , Nepsha F. S.
Published: July 2024

In this work, we investigate the effect of home charging stations for electric vehicles on voltage deviations in a 0.4 kV suburban distribution network. A 10/0.4 kV transformer substation and a 0.4 kV distribution network, supplying electricity to 114 private residential buildings, were selected as the research objects. In order to assess the effect of home charging stations on voltage deviations, a stochastic quasi-dynamic model of the electrical network was developed in the Python programming language using the Pandapower library. This model allows daily profiles of power consumption and voltage to be simulated at various numbers and connection points of home charging stations, taking the random behavior of electric vehicle owners into account. For maintaining the voltage level within the permissible limits, inverters for on-board chargers of electric vehicles in terms of reactive power sources and the shift of the charging start time to the night hours are considered. According to the simulation results, when 30% of 0.4 kV suburban distribution network consumers use a home charging station, the load on the main section of the supply line can briefly approach 100% and the depth of negative voltage deviations can exceed 20%. The Volt-Var control by on-board chargers of electric vehicles was established to reduce significantly voltage deviations in the distribution network (reducing the duration of voltage deviations below −5%, i.e., from 27.3 to 12.9%) with an insignificant effect on the charge duration of electric vehicles. The results obtained can be used in the long-term planning of distribution electric networks in the context of a widespread use of electric vehicles.