bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Moringa, Subabul and Guava Leaves Either Sole or in Combination on Nutrient Utilization, Nitrogen Balance of Ram Lambs
Authors: Raju S. , Nagalakshmi D. , Kumari N. Nalini , Rajanna N. , Swathi B. , Roupesh G.
Published: July 2024

Background: The use of alternate feed resources like tree leaves is key element in addressing the problems derived from climate change and food shortages that demand establishment of sustainable feeding system for ruminants. Methods: A study was conducted on 36 Nellore cross ram lambs (6-7 months; 18.48±0.29 kg BW) randomly allotted to six dietary treatments to evaluate the effect of 20% dietary inclusion of moringa (MOR) subabul (SBL) and guava (GVL) leaves either sole or in combination (MS and MG mixture incorporated at 60:40 and 40:60, respectively) in concentrate mixture on nutrient utilization, plane of nutrition and nitrogen balance. The control group concentrate mixture contained maize, de-oiled rice bran, cotton seed cake and soybean meal as major ingredients and in the 5 experimental concentrate mixtures, de-oiled rice bran and soybean meal were partially replaced with moringa (MOR20), subabul (SBL20), guava (GVL20), moringa and subabul mixture (MS20) and moringa and guava mixture (MG20), by including them at 20%. Animals were fed with respective concentrate mixtures to meet about 80% of protein requirements and sorghum stover was offered ad libitum to meet the nutrient requirements of lambs for maintenance and growth as per ICAR (2013). Result: Dietary inclusion of tree leaves had no effect on the intake of various nutrients viz. DM, OM, CP, EE, CF, NFE, NDF,ADF, Hemicellulose and cellulose and were comparable (P greater than 0.05) among the six dietary groups. The crude protein and crude fibre digestibility improved (P less than 0.01) in tree leaves included diets compared to control, while ether extract (EE) digestibility was lower (P less than 0.01) in tree leaves included diets compared to CON. The DCP, TDN (%) and ME content was higher (P less than 0.05) in MS20, MG20 and MOR20 groups compared to CON. The N intake (g/d), excretion through faeces and urine (g/d), total N excretion and total N balance (g/d) was comparable among the different dietary groups.
Evaluation of the Effective Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] Sprouting or Roasting for Pig Feeding
Authors: Lubisi M.W. , Fushai F. , Baloyi J.J.
Published: July 2024

Background: The study investigated the effective roasting or sprouting of cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata) based on effects on in vitro digestibility (IVDMD), supported by measurement of key chemical components and trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA). Methods: The in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of raw and all processed cowpeas were evaluated using standard, 3-step (gastric-ileal-colon) simulation of porcine digestion, modified for micro (0.5 g) sample digestion. Standard methods were employed to track processing effects on Ash, CP, Fat, ADF, NDF and trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA) at key processing points. Result: Sprouting for 2 and 3 days significantly decreased (p less than 0.05) gastric-ileal IVDMD while increasing (p less than 0.05) colon IVDMD. Total (steps 1-3) IVDMD increased (p less than 0.05) in 2-day (0.911) and 4-day (0.902) sprouts. The 20-minute cowpea roasting to 105°C terminal grain temperature resulted in high (p less than 0.05) step 3 and total IVDMD coefficients. The lowest (p greater than 0.05) total IVDMD was recorded in 15-minute (0.883) (95°C terminal grain temperature) roasts. In both experiments 1 and 2, quantitative changes in IVDMD were consistent with the changes in the chemical components (ADF, NDF, fat, CP, minerals) and trypsin inhibitor activity. In conclusion, the compartmental and total IVDMD and quantitative change in chemical components and TIA indicated 4 days sprouting and 20-minute (105°C) roasting were respectively most effective for cowpea processing.
Unveiling Hydromorphic Soil Formation Dynamics in Andem, Gabon: A Soil Survey Approach
Authors: Adhikary Rahul , Pal Arunabha
Published: July 2024

Background: A study was conducted on the processes of formation of hydromorphic soils in the estuary plateau region of Andem, Gabon, Africa through determination of hydromorphic index (HI), particle distribution-ratios and CEC/clay using details soil survey database followed by their appropriate classification in USDA soil taxonomy. Methods: The experiment carried out at Andem estuary region during 2022-23. The findings indicated that the surface horizons of these soils appeared wet with a reddish-brown coloration, accompanied by the presence of iron (Fe2+) and manganese (Mn2+) nodules in reduction phases at depths ranging from 25 to 60 cm. Additionally, redoximorphic depletions were observed below 60 cm in soils located in lower piedmonts and older alluvial plains. Result: These indices show a significant relation with the physicochemical properties of the soil. Furthermore, it was observed that these soils tended to accumulate organic matter at a rate surpassing its decomposition. The results also demonstrated a variation in Hydrologic Index (HI), ranging from 11.8 in Humic Endoaquepts to 5.2 in Typic Udifluvents, these criteria utilized for confirming and establishing hydromorphic soils could provide valuable insights for managing these soils to enhance productivity and optimize land use practices.
Explainability Analysis of the Evaluation Model of the Level of Digital Transformation in MSMEs based on Fuzzy Cognitive Maps
Authors: Aguilar Jose , Fuentes Jairo , Montoya Edwin , Hoyos William , Benito Diego
Published: July 2024

the concept of digital transformation involves exploiting digital technologies to generate new ways of doing things in organizations, including the creation of new processes, models, and services that produce value based on the digitization of data and processes. The application of digital technologies enables organizations to develop capabilities for innovation, automation, etc., utilizing both established and emerging technologies, including the widespread use of artificial intelligence. This article proposes the implementation of Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCMs) based on experts and data for the evaluation of the level of digital transformation in MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises). Additionally, this work carries out an explainability analysis of the evaluation models based on FCMs. The main digital transformation variables used to define our FCMs were classified into five groups, based on the COBIT standard: i) Organization and Culture variables related to strategies, way of working, and ecosystems, ii) Customer variables related to services and digital channels and products, iii) Operations and Internal Processes variables related to supply chain, suppliers, and business model, iv) Information Technologies variables related to innovation, digitization, data and analytic. Finally, the fifth type of variable is the target, which indicates the level of digital transformation of the organization. Our model managed to specify with 99.4% the level of digital transformation of the organization. Furthermore, the explanatory capacity of the FCMs developed in this work was explored using different explainability methods, some general and others specific to the FCMs. In general, the results obtained in the work are very encouraging since the quality metrics obtained with the evaluation models are very good, almost always higher than 90%; and the explanations obtained with the explainability methods allow for an in-depth analysis of the behavior of the variables in the results obtained, something very important to understand how to improve the levels of digital transformation in organizations.
The JavaScript Package Selection Task: A Comparative Experiment Using an LLM-based Approach
Authors: Diaz Pace Andres , Tommasel Antonela , Vazquez Hernan Ceferino
Published: July 2024

When developing JavaScript (JS) applications, the assessment and selection of JS packages becomes challenging for developers due to the growing number of technology options available. Given a technology-related task, a common developers’ strategy is to query Web repositories (e.g., from GitHub) via a search engine (e.g., NPM, Google) and then shortlist candidate JS packages. However, this search might return a long list of results and not all of them might be relevant. Thus, these results often need to be (re-)ordered according to the developer’s criteria. To address these problems, in prior work, we developed a recommender system called AIDT that assists developers in the package selection task. AIDT relies on meta-search and machine learning techniques to infer the relevant packages for a query. An initial evaluation of AIDT showed good search effectiveness, but the tool was unable to explain its choices to the developer. Research on Large Language Models (LLMs) has recently opened new opportunities for this kind of recommender systems. Anyway, human developers should judge whether the recommendations (e.g., JS packages) of these tools (either AIDT or LLMs) are fit to purpose. In this paper, we propose a Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) architecture for using LLMs in the domain of technology selection, which enhances the AIDT original design. Furthermore, we report on a user study using both AIDT and different LLM-based variants (ChatGPT, Cohere, Llama2) on a sample of JS-related queries, in which we compared their results and also validated them against developers’ criteria for the task. Our findings show that, although the ranking capabilities of LLMs are not yet on par with AIDT or human efforts, the RAG architecture can achieve a decent performance and is good at providing explanations for the package choices in the rankings. The latter feature makes it more transparent than AIDT and, thus, potentially more flexible to support developers’ tasks.
Simulation-based Reinforcement and Imitation Learning for Autonomous Sailboat Navigation in Variable Environmental Conditions
Authors: Rieppi Agustin , Rieppi Florencia , Marzoa Mercedes , Tejera Gonzalo
Published: July 2024

In light of escalating concerns over climate change, harnessing oceanic data becomes increasingly urgent. Oceans serve as linchpins in understanding the intricate dynamics governing climate phenomena, exerting pivotal influence over global weather patterns and ecological systems. Despite scientific consensus on climate change impacts, including temperature shifts and acidification, a lack of data infrastructure hampers understanding marine ecosystems.This paper presents an adaptive control system for autonomous sailboats that aims to navigate efficiently in varied conditions by favoring the acquisition of oceanographic data. Combining reinforcement and imitation learning, the controller emulates human decision-making, enabling robust navigation. While showcasing promising results, challenges persist in adverse varied conditions. This challenge is exacerbated when confronting necessitating adaptive control mechanisms resilient to wear and tear.Simulators are vital for training due to the need for vast data volumes. Real-world data collection is costly and risky, while simulations accelerate learning. This study employs a simulator operating at ten times real-time speed, significantly simplifying scenario generation by adjusting factors such as sailboat position, orientation, target location, water current, and wind.Nevertheless, this novel approach signifies progress in addressing climate challenges and advancing oceanic research, using advanced computational methods
Changes in Work Organisation Between Flexibility and Adaptation: The New Normal
Authors: Bonacci Isabella , Scarozza Danila , Menshikova Maria
Published: July 2024

The 'new normal' is an axiom grafted onto the logic of the complexity of flexible work, crossing every sphere of activity, from the productive to the economic and social. However, there is still no scientific formalisation of the phenomenon, nor sufficient data to demonstrate its future evolution. The present work aims to fill this gap in the scientific literature, seeking to arrive at a definition of a new work normality (new normal) that may encompass elements of smart working and sustainability. Our idea is to better understand what these elements are and on which new work logic could be based. The analysis was conducted on two levels. Firstly, a desk level provides for the collection and systematisation of research available on the subject of the study. Secondly, a field-type analysis was conducted using a CAWI modality and involving 62 healthcare organisations and 9,023 respondents. The results show the pandemic has brought about changes in the organisation of work, configuring new organisational models that tend towards hybrid forms. A new organisational model is configured considering smart working (SW) variables but is also equipped with drivers such as territoriality and workspace. Moreover, employees are increasingly satisfied adopting a work/organisational solution that is somewhere between flexible and normal, as indicated in the literature reviewed.
The complexity of the handgrip task modulates postural performance in older adults
Authors: Magalhães Gabriela V. , Arrivabene Nayara C. A. , Rinaldi Natalia M.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: The acts of reaching and grasping objects are involved in the performance of daily activities. There is a gap in the understanding of how the complexity of the grasping task associated with changes in the base of support influences postural control performance in the older population.
AIM: To investigate the postural control performance of older people as they performed the grasping movement, with different levels of task difficulty and complexities of the base of support.
METHOD: 15 young and 15 older adults participated. The participants stood on a force platform and performed: 1) Reaching a heavy object; 2) Reaching a light object in rigid and unstable base conditions. The variables analyzed were: area, mean velocity, and mean displacement amplitude of the center of pressure (COP).
RESULTS: Older had higher COP velocity in the anteroposterior and mediolateral directions, as well as in the rigid and unstable bases. They also had a larger COP area in the rigid and unstable base of support, and for all gripping tasks. In both groups, the mean amplitude of COP displacement in the rigid base was higher while gripping a heavy object than while gripping a light object or performing a non-gripping task.
CONCLUSION: Postural control in the older adults is mainly influenced by the difficulty of grasping tasks. It is possible to identify the postural control performance of the older while they grasp objects during daily activities and to assess how these activities disturb balance, which makes it possible to draw up guidelines to improve postural performance.
INFOGRAPHIC: Changes in locomotor performance and postural control in people with hemophilia
Authors: Tchonga Francisco A. , Bernardes Ryan M. , Rinaldi Natalia M.
Published: July 2024

Access infographic in https://socibracom.com/bjmb/index.php/bjmb/article/view/426/version/460
There is no difference between two and five minutes of static stretching training and detraining on gastrocnemius medialis muscle thickness, pennation angle and fascicle length
Authors: Friderichs William , Sonda Franceca C. , Cini Anelize , Fraporti Gabriela , Vaz Marco A. , Lima Claudia S.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: Skeletal muscle’s architecture can undergo temporary or permanent adaptations when subjected to chronic passive loading, such as during passive static stretching (PSS).
AIM: We evaluated the effects of a 6-week PSS program, with two and five minutes of duration, on the architecture of the Gastrocnemius Medialis (GM) muscle. In addition, we determined the inter-analyzer reliability of the GM’s muscle architecture images analysis process.
METHOD: 30 healthy adults participated in this study. Participants were divided into three groups: Control Group (CG), 2-minutes of PSS (G2) and 5-minutes of PSS (G5). Plantar flexors’ PSS was applied three times a week for 6 weeks. Participants were assessed before intervention, after intervention, and two weeks post detraining. GM’s muscle thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA) and fascicle length (FL) were measured with an ultrasound system by an experienced evaluator. All images were analyzed by two independent analyzers, using the Image-J software.
RESULTS: No significant effects were identified (p>0.05) of the PSS program on muscle architecture parameters. No architectural changes were observed following the detraining period. GM’s MT results presented excellent reliability, while good reliability was found for the FL measures. For PA, good reliability was only observed for the post-intervention moment. On the pre-intervention and follow-up moments, the intraclass correlation coefficients values were moderate.
CONCLUSION: A 6-week PSS program did not generate adaptations on GM’s muscle architecture parameters in healthy subjects, independent of the stretching duration. Muscle architecture parameters are reliable when analyzed by different analyzers following clinical interventions.
The Process of Experience in Parents Bereaved by Child Suicide: A Grounded Theory Approach
Authors: LEE Hyeon-Hwang , HA Jung , KIM Myung-Shig ,   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the experience process, meaning, and the essential structure of interactions in parents bereaved by their children’s suicide. To this end, 12 parents bereaved by child suicide were recruited by purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews were conducted. The data collection period is a total of 6 months from August 2022, and 1-4 interviews were conducted per participant. Data analysis was analyzed by applying the grounded theory method. As a result of the study, 100 concepts, 44 subcategories, and 17 categories were derived. The central phenomenon was that ‘even the pain of longing buried in guilt and shame.’ The core category was derived as ‘expanding altruistic view for youth while burying the pain of longing in the heart.’ The process of experience in parents bereaved by child suicide was divided into six stages: ‘shock and collapse stage’, ‘avoidance stage’, ‘struggle stage’, ‘acceptance stage’, and ‘re-establishment stage’. This study is significant in that it provided basic data for counseling and therapeutic intervention for parents bereaved by child suicide.
The Relationship between Parenting Attitude and Acculturation Stress by Chinese Students: The Mediating Effect of Perfectionist Self-Presentation and Mattering
Authors: CHEN Xin , PARK Hee-Ryong ,   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare
Published: July 2024

Purpose: This study investigated how the parenting attitude of parents perceived by Chinese students studying abroad, affects acculturation stress, and whether perfectionistic self-presentation and interpersonal presence have a mediating effect in these relationships. Method: Data were collected and analyzed through a survey targeting 266 Chinese international students in Korea. For data analysis, frequency analysis, difference analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis were performed. Result: As a result of the analysis, the parenting attitude of Chinese students perceived by them had a significant impact on the acculturation stress, and perfectionistic self-presentation and mattening had a partial mediating effect in the inflyence relationship. was confirmed. Conclusions: These results confirmed that the parenting attitude of parents was an important psychological factor affecting the acculturation stress of international students.
An Analysis of Research Trends on Public Officials in Psychology and Counseling
Authors: LEE Hye-Min , KIM Yun-Jeong ,   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare
Published: July 2024

This study examines research trends in the field of psychological counseling for civil servants in Korea and summarizes related research results to suggest directions for future theory establishment and field practice. The subject of analysis was 107 papers published in domestic academic journals from 2015 to December 2023. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics according to the analysis criteria of publication year, research subject, research method, research topic, and related variables. As a research results: First, public servant psychological counseling research papers are showing an increasing trend, starting with 6 papers in 2015 and with 20 papers in 2023, and the research subjects were civil servants in specific positions at 56%, followed by general civil servants at 42.1%. Second, quantitative research accounted for 71% of the research methods and was used as the main research method, and the research topics appeared in the following: career and occupation, personality and adaptation. Based on these results, implications were presented on the direction of development of psychological counseling research for civil servants.
The Effects of Evaluative Concerns Perfectionism on Academic Procrastination through Rumination: The Moderated Mediating Effect of Self-Compassion
Authors: PARK June-Taek , SOHN Eun-Jung ,   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare
Published: July 2024

This study examined the moderated mediating effect of self-compassion on the relationship among evaluative concerns perfectionism, rumination and academic procrastination for 358 students in universities nationwide. The results of this study are as follows. First, rumination fully mediated the relationship between evaluative concerns perfectionism and academic procrastination. Second, self-compassion moderated the relationship between rumination and academic procrastination. Third, self-compassion moderated the mediating effect of rumination between evaluative concerns perfectionism and academic procrastination. The results showed that evaluative concerns perfectionism affected academic procrastination through the mediation of rumination, and the mediating effect of rumination in the relationship between evaluative concerns perfectionism and academic procrastination depended on the level of self-compassion.
The Effect of Mentalization on Interpersonal problems among College Students: The Double Mediating Effect of Pain Tolerance and Experience Avoidance
Authors: LEE Young-Joo , JEON Seong-Eun ,   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare
Published: July 2024

This study attempted to examine the effect of mentalization on interpersonal problem among college students and to verify the mediating effect of pain tolerance and experience avoidance in this process. For this purpose, the results of an online survey conducted with 300 college students from the metropolitan area were analyzed. Following the study, first, mentalization showed a positive correlation with pain tolerance and negative correlated with experience avoidance and interpersonal problems. Also, pain tolerance was negatively correlated with experience avoidance and interpersonal problems, and experience avoidance was positively correlated with interpersonal problems. Second, pain tolerance mediated the influence of mentalization on interpersonal problems. Third, experience avoidance mediated the influence of mentalization on interpersonal problems. Fourth, pain tolerance and experience avoidance sequentially mediated the effect of mentalization on interpersonal problems. Based on the findings, the study's significance, limitations, and future research directions were discussed.
Cataloging metagenome-assembled genomes and microbial genes from the athlete gut microbiome
Authors: Wosinska Laura , Walsh Liam H. , Walsh Calum J. , Cotter Paul D. , Guinane Caitriona M. , O’Sullivan Orla
Published: July 2024

Aim: Exercise has been increasingly recognized as a potential influencer of the gut microbiome. Nevertheless, findings remain incongruous, particularly in relation to sport-specific patterns.

Methods: In this study, we harness all publicly available data from athlete gut microbiome shotgun studies to explore how exercise may influence the gut microbiota through metagenomic assembly supplemented with short read-based taxonomic profiling. Through this analysis, we provide insights into exercise-associated taxa and genes, including the identification and annotation of putative novel species from the analysis of approximately 2,000 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), classified as high-quality (HQ) MAGs and assembled as part of this investigation.

Results: Our metagenomic analysis unveiled potential athlete-associated microbiome patterns at both the phylum and species levels, along with their associated microbial genes, across a diverse array of sports and individuals. Specifically, we identified 76 species linked to exercise, with a notable prevalence of the Firmicutes phylum. Furthermore, our analysis detected MAGs representing potential novel species across various phyla, including Bacteroidota , Candidatus Melainabacteria , Elusimicrobia , Firmicutes , Lentisphaerae , Proteobacteria , Tenericutes , and Verrucomicrobiota .

Conclusion: In summary, this catalog of MAGs and their corresponding genes stands as the most extensive collection yet compiled from athletes. Our analysis has discerned patterns in genes associated with exercise. This underscores the value of employing shotgun metagenomics, specifically a MAG recovery strategy, for pinpointing sport-associated microbiome signatures. Furthermore, the identification of novel MAGs holds promise for developing probiotics and deepening our comprehension of the intricate interplay between fitness and the microbiome.
Analisis Kemandirian Keuangan Daerah dalam Konstribusinya Bagi Kesejahteraan Masyarakat Kabupaten Bandung Tahun 2018-2019
Authors: Allifia Azzahra  , Armeliza Diah , Musyaffi Ayatulloh Michael
Published: July 2024

This study aims to analyze regional financial independence as measured using financial independence ratios in accordance with the Regulation of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 19 of 2020, analyze the condition of community welfare, especially in the fields of health, independence, employment and education and analyze how financial independence contributes to community welfare. This research takes the Bandung Regency Government as the object of research. In the data collection technique, this study uses secondary data, namely the LKPD of the Bandung Regency Government for 2019-2021 using descriptive quantitative methods. The results of this study indicate that the regional financial independence of the Bandung Regency Government is considered insufficient. This is indicated by the nominal regional financial independence of the Bandung Regency Government of 17.89 for 2019, 19.07% for 2020 and 19.05% for 2021. The welfare of the people of Bandung Regency in terms of health which has appropriate standards by having one or more health facilities in each existing sub-district, in terms of poverty, the percentage of poor people who have increased is lower than the average increase in the percentage of poor people in districts / cities in West Java, In terms of employment, which experienced an increase in the Labor Force Participation Rate (TPAK) in 2021 which was greater than the average increase in TPAK in districts / cities in West Java, in terms of education, the level of Pure Participation Rate (APM) which managed to increase. As for its contribution to community welfare, the Bandung Regency Government allocates expenditures, especially to related agencies. This allocation is channeled in the form of organizing programs and activities aimed at improving welfare. However, if reviewed through the independence of regional finances, the Bandung Regency Government still shows "Less". So this illustrates that the positive changes that exist in the welfare of the people of Bandung Regency still depend on transfer revenues.
Spatial and temporal variations of the 3-year earthquake swarm activities leading up to the M7.6 Noto Peninsula earthquake and interpretations of their activities
Authors: Kumazawa Takao , Ogata Yosihiko
Published: July 2024

The seismic swarm activity that began and expanded in four separate regions in the northern Noto Peninsula at the end of 2020 was followed by the M6.5 earthquake in May 2023, which cascaded into the M7.6 earthquake on New Year's Day 2024. To this series of earthquake events, we estimate temporal changes in the background intensity of the nonstationary ETAS model by inversion for each region. We then interpret how this series of earthquakes was driven by subsurface fluid motion and slow slip at each stage, based on the correspondence between the background seismicity changes and the temporal changes in oblique distance and elevation differences between nearby GNSS stations, as well as the spatiotemporal earthquake patterns.
Surface microstructures of tricalcium phosphate regulate the autophagy of osteoclasts through the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Yuchen , Yang Peipei , Chen Kairui , Huang Biying , Ye Xinxin , Zhao Lingfan , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2024

The surface microstructures are essential for osteogenesis induced by tricalcium phosphate (TCP). Current studies have mainly focused on the effects on osteoblasts, while the role of its surface microstructure on osteoclasts has been less studied. This study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of TCP with different surface microstructures on osteoclasts. The sintering temperature was controlled to produce three different surface microstructures of TCP disks. The behavior of RAW264.7 cells on TCP disk(cell proliferation activity, differentiation, and function), cell autophagy, and the expression of factors in MAPK/ERK signaling pathway were evaluated. The three TCP materials had the same chemical properties and sizes. The surfaces of TCP-compact (TCPc), TCP-middle (TCPm), and TCP-porous (TCPp) were smooth, rough, and the roughest, respectively. The crystal size of TCPc was small, whereas the crystal size of TCP-porous (TCPp) was similar to that of TCPm but larger than that of TCPc. The culture of RAW264.7 cells on the three kinds of TCP disks revealed that the crystal size of the TCP disks had a greater influence on the activity and function of osteoclasts. Osteoclasts cocultured with TCPm and TCPp showed inhibited activity and autophagy, meanwhile the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway was activated in the process. This study demonstrated for that TCP with different surface microstructures may regulate the autophagy in RANKL-induced osteoclasts via ERK1/2 and p38 signaling pathways, sequently affecting osteoclast activity and function in bone fomation.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived exosomes loaded Alitretinoin for TBI repair treatment
Authors: Chen Songyu , Lin Junyu , Zhang Xiaxuan , Yu Peng , Wang Yida , Deng Xianyu , Zhou Lin , Gao Dongming , Gao Liang , Li Lei
Published: July 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Current clinical treatments often target singular pathological processes, resulting in suboptimal outcomes due to a lack of comprehensive neuroprotective effects. To address this critical gap, we have developed an innovative therapeutic approach utilizing mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-derived exosome (Mexo)-coated albumin nanospheres loaded with Alitretinoin (Ali-NPs@Mexo). This novel design aims to enhance neural repair mechanisms, offering a multifaceted approach to neuroprotection and recovery in TBI patients. Our in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that Ali-NPs@Mexo effectively modulates the TBI immuno-microenvironment by attenuating oxidative stress and neuroinflammatory responses. Treatment with Ali-NPs@Mexo was also found to reduce the abnormal activation of astrocytes, which contribute to glial scar formation that hinders neuronal repair. Furthermore, this nanomedicine promoted the proliferation and repair of oligodendrocytes, neural stem cells, and neurons. These findings underscore the potential of Ali-NPs@Mexo as a robust therapeutic strategy for TBI, combining targeted delivery with comprehensive anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and reparative effects. The innovative use of MSC-derived exosome-coated nanoparticles ensures enhanced brain targeting and prolonged therapeutic action, making this nanomedicine a promising candidate for clinical translation in the treatment of TBI.
Development of Multi-Objective Production Scheduling Fuzzy Algorithm in Manufacturing
Authors: Piros Attila
Published: July 2024

Several methods exist to schedule specific workpieces in a manufacturing system. Large multinational companies usually apply worldwide automated scheduling systems to provide optimal manufacturing parameters and fulfil the requirements of the lean method. In contrast, an average small-medium sized enterprise (SME) has limited financial and technical resources to complete this task. This paper proposes an ultimately simplified fuzzy inference system, the Compact Mamdani Fuzzy Inference System (CMFIS), to help the scheduling tasks in SMEs. The CMFIS does not require special fuzzy logic knowledge and communicates with the user via Microsoft Excel worksheets. The paper introduces the CMFIS itself and its job shop application as well.
It's time to strike a balance:-Trajectories of health behaviour changes in spouses of people with dementia at high risk for dementia：A qualitative study
Authors: Fang Shuyan , Sun Juanjuan , Gao Shizheng , Song Dongpo , Zhi Shengze , Gu Yanyan , Sun Jiao
Published: July 2024

Background
Multiple studies have shown that spouses of people with dementia (PwD) are two to six times more likely to develop dementia than the general population. By promoting healthy behaviours and improving modifiable risk factors for dementia, 40% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed. However, little is known about the health behaviour changes after a spouse becomes a primary caregiver. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the universally lived experience of spousal caregiver of PwD, identify the trajectory and key nodes events of health behaviour changes in spouses of PwD following their partner's diagnosis to inform the adoption of health behaviours.
Method
A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Using maximum variation and purposive sampling, 20 spouses of people with dementia with two or more risk factors were recruited for semi-structured interviews.The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed via thematic analysis.
Results
Two themes were identified, in traditional Chinese culture, in the life course of spouses and people with dementia coping with the challenges of dementia, health behaviour changes occur in two directions: (a) priming-leaping-coping: becoming a "smart" caregiver, (b) struggling-trudging-silence: the process by which the self is "swallowed".
Conclusion
The impact of the disease on the process of health behaviour change in spouses is directional, and future interventions must capture the marker nodes at each stage. Spouses must continually balance multiple identity roles to effectively maintain positive health behaviours.
Effective use of dupilumab for eosinophilic gastritis concomitant with severe asthma
Authors: Takeshige Tomohito , Koyama Ryo , Motomura Hiroaki , Okajima Akifumi , Nishioki Toshihiko , Watanabe Junko , Yae Toshifumi , Kido Kenji , Takahashi Kazuhisa
Published: July 2024

Background
Eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs) are chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disorders characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms and eosinophilic inflammation in specific regions of the gastrointestinal tract. EGIDs are categorized based on the location of eosinophilic inflammation. “Eosinophilic gastritis” (EoG) refers to the condition in which the stomach is involved. In patients with EoG, approved treatment options are restricted despite the high mortality associated with the condition. Therefore, drugs with various pharmacological effects are required. Dupilumab is a human monoclonal antibody directed against the interleukin (IL)-4 receptor α subunit and inhibits the signaling pathways of both IL-4 and IL-13. Additionally, dupilumab has been approved for patients with bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis, chronic sinusitis with nasal polyposis, prurigo nodularis, chronic spontaneous urticaria, and eosinophilic esophagitis. However, real-world data on the effectiveness of dupilumab for EoG are limited. We present the case of a patient with EoG associated with severe asthma who demonstrated improvement with dupilumab administration.
Case presentation:
A 35-year-old woman who had been treated for asthma complained of worsening intermittent upper abdominal pain. Her dyspnea aggravated and she was admitted to our hospital for asthma exacerbation. Despite the improvement in her asthma symptoms with systemic corticosteroids, her abdominal pain persisted. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopic mucosal biopsy revealed eosinophilic cell infiltration; therefore, the patient was diagnosed with EoG. Dupilumab administration was initiated for asthma, while improvement of secondary EoG was expected. Following dupilumab administration, both EoG and asthma symptoms, disease control, laboratory findings, endoscopic findings, and pathological findings improved. As of now, no adverse events have been reported.
Conclusion
This case report supports that dupilumab could be an effective treatment option for EoG associated with asthma.
The synergistic effect of nitric oxide in Serendipita indica - induced resistance and basal immunity of wheat against powdery mildew
Authors: Li Liang , Qi Fuyan , Feng Yu , Yang Xiurong
Published: July 2024

Aims：The occurrence of wheat powdery mildew caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici severely hampers the increase of wheat yield. The utilization of biological control in the management of powdery mildew is highly valuable due to its environmentally friendly and sustainable characteristics. The present study investigates the resistance mechanism against powdery mildew by employing a combination of inorganic small molecule NO and endophytic fungus Serendipita indica (S. indica).
Methods：By spraying nitroprusside spraying (NO donor) on wheat leaves and inoculating of roots with S. indica, the effects of combined application of NO and S. indica on powdery mildew were determined through analysis of physiological and biochemical indexes, transcriptome and metabolome data.
Results：Experimental data have demonstrated that pre-colonization with S. indica, followed by sodium nitroprusside spraying (NO donor), reduce 27.9% disease index caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici and elevate biomass by 20% in wheat. The synergistic application of both treatments (NO+S. indica) effectively enhancedchlorophyll content in leaves and relative water content in roots, significantly decreased the accumulation of malondialdehyde and electrical conductivity in leaves. Furthermore, this combination promotes antioxidant activity in wheat leaves through their synergistic effect. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that sodium nitroprusside alone did not induce a substantial number of differentially expressed genes; however, co-administration of NO and S. indica had a greater impact on transcriptomic changes. Differential expressed geneswere validated by fluorescence quantitative PCR analysis. Metabolic profiling indicated that co-application of NO and S. indicaled to broader alterations across metabolic pathways. Notably, plant hormones such as gibberellin, auxin, and salicylic acid exhibited significant increases upon combined treatment.
Conclusions：The study presents a novel research concept and tactic for the biological management of powdery mildew in wheat.
Adult maxillary expansion: CBCT evaluation of skeletal changes and determining an efficiency factor between force-controlled polycyclic slow activation and continuous rapid activation for mini-screw-assisted palatal expansion - MASPE vs MARPE.
Authors: Walter Andre , Winsauer Heinz , Crespo Eduardo , Walter David , Winsauer Clemens , Schwärzler Alexander , Mojal Sergi , Arcos Ignacio , Puigdollers Andreu
Published: July 2024

Aim: This consecutive retrospective study compared Mini-implant Assisted Slow Palatal Expansion (MASPE) with rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) using a bone-borne skeletal expander in adults with a narrow maxilla. CBCT scans analyzed transverse changes and potential pterygoid process deformation before (T1) and after expansion (T2).
Material and Methods: The Force Controlled PolyCyclic (FCPC) SLOW palatal expansion group (FCPC-MASPE-G) comprised 35 adults aged 18-54 years and received a skeletal expander limiting expansive force only allowing 500 cN at the activation wrench (force control). Discontinuous, polycyclic activations according to the FCPC-protocol were applied. The MARPE-group (n=6) underwent continuous RAPID activation without FCPC until the desired width was reached. CBCT scans were taken pre and post-expansion. Inclusion criteria for both groups were successful outcomes without surgical assistance.
Results: The maxilla opened transversally in both groups mildly V-shaped, with a pyramidal shape in the coronal plane, impacting the zygomatic bone. Width measurements at T2 indicated superior mechanical response in FCPC-MASPE-G. Response of zygomaticomaxillary sutures was similar in both groups. Pterygoid process deformations were notably less in FCPC-MASPE-G (0.87 - 1.35 mm) compared to MARPE-G (2.70 - 3.04 mm). Dental measurements were similar, but the ratio “Mid-palatal suture Opening Related to Expander opening” (M.O.R.E.-factor) was better with 84% in FCPC-MASPE-G than with 50% in MARPE-G.
Conclusion: Slow expansion with FCPC protocol effectively widens the maxilla in adults, with significant impact on bones and sutures and less pterygoid process deformation compared to rapid expansion. Cranial complications were absent in both groups.
First-principles calculations of mechanical properties of TiZrNbTaMo series biological refractory high-entropy alloys
Authors: Wu Yanan , Zhang Yun , Liu Jingshun , Li Ze , Zhao Erjun
Published: July 2024

TiZrNbTaMo series refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) exhibit significant potential in biomedical implant applications due to their outstanding mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Based on first-principles calculations combined with the virtual crystal approximation method, the influence of various element contents on the mechanical properties of TiZrNbTaMo series RHEAs has been investigated in this study. By calculating the physical parameters such as elastic properties, hardness, yield strength, and dislocation energy factor of TiZrNbTaMo RHEA with various element contents, it is found that the addition of Nb element can increase the Cauchy pressure value of the alloy, thereby improving the metallic properties of atomic bonds. Increasing the Ta and Mo content significantly boosts the Young's modulus and hardness of the alloy, while also enhancing its resistance to volume and shear deformation. And among, TiZrNbTa0.5Mo RHEA exhibits the largest dislocation width, lower stacking fault energy, and is more susceptible to twinning deformation than other RHEAs. However, increasing Ti and Zr content enlarges the dislocation width of the alloy, making it more prone to slip. To sum up, this study provides a theoretical reference for further investigation into the mechanical property changes of TiZrNbTaMo series RHEAs.
Predictive Factors of Methotrexate Monotherapy Success in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis in a National Referral Center: A Cohort Study
Authors: Hidayat Rudy , Fauzia Fara , Parlindungan Faisal , Wibowo Suryo Anggoro Kusumo , Ariane Anna , Damanik Johanda , Araminta Abirianty Priandani
Published: July 2024

Background
Methotrexate (MTX) remains the recommended first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, its response varies and is influenced by various factors. This study aimed to identify predictors of MTX monotherapy treatment success in an Indonesian cohort.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included newly diagnosed RA patients receiving MTX monotherapy. Treatment success was defined as achieving remission or low disease activity according to Disease Activity Score-28 with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) after 12 months of MTX therapy. The association between demographic, clinical, and laboratory factors and achieving therapy targets was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis.
Results
Among 254 subjects, 59.4% achieved treatment success with MTX monotherapy, with remission attained in 33% and low disease activity in 26.4%. Most subjects were female (95.7%) with a mean age of 48 ± 11 years. Multivariate analysis revealed that lower disease activity (OR 1.97; 95% CI [1.04–3.72]), normal ESR (OR 2.58; 95% CI [1.05–6.34]), normoweight (OR 2.55, 95% CI [1.45–4.49]), and tender joint count ≤ 5 (OR 2.45, 95% CI [1.31–4.58]) were significant predictors of treatment success.
Conclusion
The rate of MTX monotherapy success in our study was 59.4%. Lower disease activity, normal ESR, normoweight, and fewer tender joints at baseline were significant predictors of treatment success.
Satellite Remote Sensing Analysis Using Effective Feature Extraction & Classification Using Deep Learning Technique
Authors: K Thilagavathi , Kumar Rajiv , Ramadass Sudhir , Narayanan Sreekumar
Published: July 2024

In recent years, deep learning (DL) algorithms have earned more attention and popularity in image processing, especially in satellite remote sensing analysis, as they can learn the hierarchical and discriminative feature representations within the data. This research aims to enhance the efficiency of the satellite remote sensing image classification by applying deep learning algorithms. The satellite images from the National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) database are initially collected and fed into the system. Consequently, the collected images are pre-processed to enhance the image quality, further improving the developed system's performance. The image pre-processing module utilizes the Patching/Slicing of HS image and the Image Normalization algorithm for performing tasks such as data cleaning, data interpolation, and data discretization, which aids in minimizing the overfitting challenge of the DL algorithm. Further, feature engineering was done to extract the most important features using the pre-trained Autoencoder model, which reduces the data dimensionality. Finally, train the dense Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) with the extracted features to classify the satellite RS images. The experimental results demonstrate that the developed DL strategy obtained an improved accuracy of 93%, which is greater than the existing cutting-edge models. Also, the proposed algorithm attained 96% specificity, 96% sensitivity, 87% precision, and 90% detection rate. This superior performance of the designed methodology highlights its efficiency in analyzing satellite images.