bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of market participation for small scale broiler farmers in Leribe District of Lesotho
Authors: Lekhisa Khutlang , Muroyiwa Brian
Published: June 2024

The poultry industry is the fasted growing sub-sector of agriculture in the developing world and this is attributed to several pulling and pushing factors. On the demand side, the issue of urbanisation, income increase and animal protein requirements particularly for chicken has a positive influence on the growth of poultry production. Poultry farming is highly practised in rural households in Lesotho, and it constitutes an important contribution to the development of the rural economy in most developing countries. The poultry industry remains an important sub-sector of agriculture like in many other developing countries and it remains the main source of livelihood for village people and other small-scale farmers in the economy. Many rural communities are keeping poultry as a source of meat and eggs to feed their families, raise income from the surplus and create employment opportunities. However, access to formals markets remains a critical challenge for the farmers. This study examined the socio-economic, market and institutional factors that influenced broiler farmers’ market participation and intensity of participation in the Leribe district in Lesotho. A two-stage sampling technique was employed to select 114 respondents from five villages and the survey data was collected through a structured questionnaire. Heckman's two-stage model was used to analyse factors influencing farmers' market participation and the intensity of market participation. Gender, farmer income, storage access, production experience, extension service, credit access and information access were significant and influenced farmers’ market participation decisions. The study recommends interventions that will increase access and formal market participation.
Fusion of Thermal Point Cloud Series of Buildings for Inspection in Virtual Reality
Authors: Pérez Emiliano , Merchán Pilar , Espacio Alejandro , Salamanca Santiago
Published: June 2024

Point cloud acquisition systems now enable the capture of geometric models enriched with additional attribute data, providing a deeper semantic understanding of the measured environments. However, visualizing complex spatiotemporal point clouds remains computationally challenging. This paper presents a fusion methodology that aggregates points from different instants into unified clouds with reduced redundancy while preserving time-varying information. The static 3D structure is condensed using a voxel approach, while temporal attributes are propagated across the merged data. The resulting point cloud is optimized and rendered interactively in a virtual reality (VR) application. This platform allows for intuitive exploration, visualization, and analysis of the merged clouds. Users can examine thermographic properties using color maps and study graphical temperature trends. The potential of VR for insightful interrogation of point clouds enriched with multiple properties is highlighted by the system.
Perfusion in Pedicled skin flaps: Initial Insights from Smartphone-Based Thermal Imaging protocol
Authors: Fiedler Lukas S , Lippert Burkard M , Adrian Lukas , Meyer Tobias
Published: June 2024

Objective: The key to the success of pedicled skin flaps in the head and neck region is preserved perfusion. The use of thermal imaging can provide an indirect indicator of tissue perfusion, which consecutively would be of interest for perioperative prediction of the viability. The effectiveness of thermal imaging has already been demonstrated for assessing pedicled and free flaps [1]. This work investigates the implementation of SBTI as a noninvasive and cost-efficient method in clinical practice for predicting the vitality and perioperative monitoring of pedicled skin flaps in head and neck surgery.
Methods: The FLIR One Pro camera was used for this pilot study (Teledyne FLIR LLC, Wilsonville, Oregon, United States). It is a multispectral camera that contains a near-infrared camera unit with a resolution of 160 x 120 pixels, a temperature range of 0 ° - 400 °C, and a thermal resolution of 70 millikelvin. For the study, after implementing the system, n = 11 skin flaps were photographed by SBTI (n=44) after marking (T1), after elevation (T2), after completed surgery (T3), and 24 hours postoperatively (T4), and the outcome was assessed clinically in correlation after one week by one surgeon.
Results: The pedicled skin flaps examined all showed a preserved, uniform thermal image signature peri- and postoperatively for time points T1-4. This corresponded to a good postoperative result regarding the vitality of the tissue transfer in the clinical assessments 24 hours and one week postoperatively.
Conclusion: The acquisition of a continuously obtained thermal image signature as a surrogate marker for preserved tissue perfusion by SBTI proved simple, inexpensive, noninvasive, and efficient in the present sentinel study. The application of SBTI has been primarily investigated in identifying perforators in large pedicled or free flaps. [2, 3] The concordance of the obtained thermal image signature with a positive clinical outcome suggests that the presented method is also suitable for perioperative prognostic statements on postoperative flap vitality in pedicled skin flaps and for monitoring those during surgery. Further studies are necessary for the implementation of this method in clinical practice to support the surgeon's intraoperative decision-making in the future.
Discussion and Demonstration of RF-MEMS Attenuators Design Concepts and Modules for Advanced Beamforming in the Beyond-5G and 6G Scenario—Part 2
Authors: Tagliapietra Girolamo , Giacomozzi Flavio , Michelini Massimiliano , Marcelli Romolo , Sardi Giovanni Maria , Iannacci Jacopo
Published: June 2024

In this paper, different concepts of reconfigurable RF-MEMS attenuators for beamforming applications are proposed and critically assessed. Capitalizing on the previous part of this work, the 1-bit attenuation modules featuring series and shunt resistors and low-voltage membranes (7-9 V) are employed to develop a 3-bit attenuator for fine-tuning attenuations (< -10 dB) in the 24.25-27.5 GHz range. More substantial attenuation levels are investigated by means of fabricated samples of coplanar waveguide (CPW) sections equipped with Pi-shaped resistors aiming at attenuations of -15, -30, and -45 dB. The remarkable electrical features of such configurations, showing flat attenuation curves and limited return losses, and the investigation of a switched-line attenuator design based on them led to the final proposed concept of a low-voltage 24-state attenuator. Such simulated device combines the Pi-shaped resistors for substantial attenuations with the 3-bit design for fine-tuning operations, showing a maximum attenuation level of nearly -50 dB while maintaining steadily flat attenuation levels and limited return losses (< -11 dB) along the frequency band of interest.
Evaluation of Mis-Selection of Boundary Vertebrae and Its Effect on Measuring Cobb Angle and Curve Length in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Hurtado-Avilés José , León-Muñoz Vicente J. , Santonja-Medina Fernando , Raimondi Paolo , Martínez-Martínez Francisco
Published: June 2024

The Cobb angle is critical in assessing adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. This study aimed to evaluate the error in selecting the cranial and caudal limit vertebrae on AIS digital X-rays of experienced and novice observers and its correlation with the error in measuring the Cobb angle and determining the length of the scoliotic curves. Using the TraumaMeter v.873 software, eight raters (four experienced and four novices) independently evaluated 68 scoliotic curves on 42 AIS X-rays across three sessions one month apart according to Hopkins’ criteria of absolute reliability. Two spine specialist experts using the Cobb method established the gold standard measurements. The percentage of error in the selection of the cranial vertebrae (the most-tilted vertebra above the apex) is higher than in the caudal vertebrae (the most-tilted vertebrae below the apex) (44.7%, CI95% 41.05-48.3 compared to 35%, CI95% 29.7-40.4). The error in the choice of the most tilted vertebrae, in number of vertebrae per scoliotic curve, was MBE (mean bias error) =0.45, CI95% 0.38-0.52 in the cranial and MBE=0.35, CI% 0.69-0.91 in the caudal. The percentage of errors in the choice of boundary vertebrae is lower for the experienced than for the novices, both in cranial and caudal. The experienced chose at least one boundary vertebrae incorrectly in 52% of the meas-urements and the novices in 65.1%. The error in the Cobb angle did not depend on the number of boundary vertebrae chosen incorrectly (r=0.198, p=0.111). Of the 50% of Cobb angle measurements closest to the actual value, 55.4% (454) were obtained by incorrectly selecting at least one boundary vertebra. There was a positive correlation (r=0.673, p=0.000) between the error in selecting the boundary vertebrae and the error in determining the length of the scoliotic curves. The error in quantifying the length of scoliotic curves was MBE=0.43, CI95% 0.35-0.51 vertebrae per curve. We can conclude that errors in selecting boundary vertebrae are common among experienced and novice observers, with a greater frequency of error in the cranial vertebrae. There is no correlation between the error in selecting the boundary vertebrae and the error in measuring the Cobb angle. Contrary to the consensus, the accuracy of determining the length of the scoliotic curve is limited by the Cobb method’s reliance on the correct selection of boundary vertebrae. Inappropriate choice of boundary vertebrae leads to an estimated error in determining the length of the scoliotic curves of 0.805 vertebrae for each boundary vertebra chosen incorrectly.
Compact, Ultra-Wideband Butler Matrix Beamformers for the Advanced 5G Band FR3 – Part I
Authors: Empliouk Tzichat , Kapetanidis Panagiotis , Arnaoutoglou Dimitrios , Kolitsidas Christos , Lialios Dimitrios , Koutinos Anastasios , Kaifas Theodoros N. F. , Georgakopoulos Stavros V , Zekios Constantinos L. , Kyriacou George A.
Published: June 2024

Butler matrix networks are well established as beam forming networks for phased antenna arrays. The challenge we address in this work is to cover the entire, (advanced 5G or 6G), FR3 band (7-24 GHz) with a single network, while retaining low losses and minimal size. The employed multilayer topology is also well established, however, the matching between the utilized hybrid couplers and the phase shifters constitutes a major challenge for such a wideband operation. This is achieved herein employing meander lines with appropriate curvature and introducing two distinct design methods for the Butler Matrix. The first method focuses on designing individual components separately, followed by their integration into the overall Butler Matrix structure. This approach is demonstrated through the design, prototyping, measurements and validation of an 8x8 Butler Matrix beamformer, which operates across the 6-16 GHz band (FR3 Low). The second method introduces a wideband matching technique, which simplifies the implementation process by designing the Butler Matrix as a single, unified structure. This technique is applied to both 4x4 and 8x8 Butler Matrices, which are implemented and simulated for the low FR3 band. Both design methods result in wideband operation, compact size, and meet the desired performance criteria.
Optimization of Lead-Free Sn-Based Perovskite Solar Cells using SCAPs-1D Simulation Techniques
Authors: Maqsood Awais , Abid Muhammad Irfan , Kamran Muhammad , Turzyński Marek , Tlija Mehdi , Ghith Ehab
Published: June 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are vital for their optical and electrical properties, with lead-based PSCs reaching a remarkable efficiency of 26.1%, while tin-based counterparts achieve 18.71%. Due to lead's toxicity, there's a push for alternatives like tin. However, tin-based PSCs suffer from stability issues and high defect density states, necessitating the development of cost-effective, high-performance, and eco-friendly alternatives. In this study, we designed a hetero-junction architecture using MASnI3-based Perovskite, opti-mized with SCAPs-1D. After exhaustive analysis, our device achieved a power conversion efficiency of 24.18%, with enhanced parameters including Voc of 0.09323V, Jsc of 30.8360 mA/cm2, and FF of 84.10%. Recombination rates, particularly Shockley-Read Hall recom-bination, were significantly reduced. Parametric analyses, encompassing absorber layer thickness, band gap, defect density, doping concentration, and operating temperature, in-dicate potential efficiency enhancements. This underscores the viability of Sn-based PSCs as a cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally benevolent alternative to lead-based counterparts, promising advancements in future research and development efforts.
Enhancing Turnaround Maintenance in Process Plants through On-Stream Phased Array Corrosion Mapping: A Review
Authors: Tai Jan Lean , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Łukaszewicz Andrzej , Shahar Farah Syazwani , Oksiuta Zbigniew , Krishnamoorthy Renga Rao
Published: June 2024

This review paper aims to understand the current processing plant maintenance systems and further identify on-stream phased array corrosion mapping (PACM) to reduce turnaround maintenance (TAM) activity during plant operations. Reducing the TAM duration and extending the TAM interval are common goals of most researchers. Thus, a detailed review was performed to understand the maintenance systems and the problems faced. Furthermore, a review of the current PACM application and the possibility of applying it during on-stream inspection was also per-formed. PACM has better detectability for localized corrosion, and the results can be obtained for a range of thicknesses, which is the main advantage of this method. The challenge is to apply it to a surface with high temperatures, owing to the greater probe contact and the limitation of ultrasonic properties. This literature review provides a more precise direction for future research to evaluate PACM on piping that can be utilized in inspection during plant operation at elevated temperatures. Detecting and monitoring corrosion growth without shutdown.
Invasive Thyroid Aspergillosis on 18FDG-PET/Ct: When Filaments Are Lost along the Way
Authors: Jaafari Ayoub , Mansour Sohaïb , Lebrun Laetitia , Kaefer Keitiane , Attou Rachid
Published: June 2024

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) represents a common form of fungal infection caused by various species of Aspergillus that most frequently affect immunocompromised patients. Typically, this disease occurs preferentially in high-risk groups including patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), leukemia, autoimmune diseases, and organ transplant patients undergoing medical immunosuppression. Considered the second most common cause of op-portunistic fungal infection in humans after Candida albicans, this pathogen predominantly affects the lungs, but may also spread by hematogenous route to various organs and have a heterogenous presentation. Owing to its high iodine levels, high perfusion, and enclosed capsule, the thyroid gland is considered to have a lower susceptibility to microbial invasion and it is fairly uncommon to find associated infectious nodules. In metabolic imaging, 18F-FDG-PET/CT has become increasingly useful for detecting a wide range of infectious and inflammatory diseases and is already the gold standard for certain indications. According to the literature, no studies of hypermetabolic nodular thyroid aspergillosis on 18F-FDG-PET/CT confirmed on histology have yet been reported. Here, we report the first case of a patient with a heterogeneous presentation of IA and the presence of a hypermetabolic nodule in the thyroid with a surprising result.
Neglected and peripheral spaces: Challenges of Socioeconomic Marginalization in a south Carpathian area
Authors: Dragan Alexandru , Crețan Remus , Lungu Mihaela Ancuta
Published: June 2024

There has been debate recently on how the population in traditional mining areas of Central and Eastern Europe face precarity and marginalization. A spatial approach was employed in a Romanian context using available statistical data on a south Carpathian area (i.e Gorj County), surveys and in-depth interviews with residents in one of the rural communities of Gorj. Our findings highlight that a large number of rural localities in this county are technically, economically, and socially underdeveloped. Many inhabitants face a lack of financial resources and employment opportunities, which has led to the emigration of young people to larger Romanian cities or to other countries. We conclude that in order to avoid a much deeper social and spatial marginalization of local inhabitants, an integrated strategy is needed to target economic and social development, investment in infrastructure and public services, the promotion of employment and training opportunities, and to better integrate local culture and traditions into tourism.
Harnessing Agricultural Waste: From Disposal Dilemma to Wealth Creation and Sustainable Solutions towards UAVsAirframe Manufacturing
Authors: Shahar Farah Syazwani , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Łukaszewicz Andrzej , Grzejda Rafał , Oksiuta Zbigniew , Krishnamoorthy Renga Rao
Published: June 2024

The escalating global population and subsequent demand for agricultural products have led to a surge in agricultural waste generation, posing significant disposal challenges. Conventional disposal methods such as burning and dumping not only harm the environment but also jeopardize human health and safety. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable waste management, researchers have increasingly focused on repurposing agricultural plant waste as a valuable resource. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the potential of agricultural plant waste in wealth creation and sustainable development. It highlights the detrimental impacts of current disposal methods and emphasizes the necessity for alternative approaches. By analyzing the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of plant fibers, particularly cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, this review underscores their suitability for diverse applications. Moreover, it explores the emerging trend of utilizing pineapple leaf fiber, a sustainable and lightweight material, in structural applications such as UAV construction. With its exceptional mechanical properties and biodegradability, pineapple leaf fiber holds promise as a viable alternative to traditional materials, contributing to a more sustainable future. In conclusion, this review advocates for a paradigm shift towards embracing agricultural plant waste as a valuable asset for economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. It underscores the importance of continued research and technological advancements to unlock the full potential of agricultural waste in fostering a circular economy and driving sustainable development globally.
Relationship of Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatohepatitis-related Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Oral and Intestinal Microbiota: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Matsui Takaaki , Morozumi Toshiya , Yamamoto Yuko , Kobayashi Takashi , Takuma Ryo , Yoneda Masato , Nogami Asako , Kessoku Takaomi , Tamura Muneaki , Nomura Yoshiaki , Takahashi Toru , Kamata Yohei , Sugihara Shuntaro , Arai Kyoko , Minabe Masato , Aoyama Norio , Mitsudo Kenji , Nakajima Atsushi , Komaki Motohiro
Published: June 2024

Background: The incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing annually with a rise in the incidence of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Based on preliminary reports regarding the potential association of HCC and periodontitis, this study aimed to analyze the involvement of periodontal bacteria as well as the oral and intestinal bacterial flora in MASH-related HCC (MASH-HCC). Methods: Forty-one patients with MASH and 19 with MASH-HCC who completed survey questionnaires, underwent periodontal examinations, and subjected to sample collection (saliva, mouth-rinsed water, feces, and peripheral blood) participated in the study. Bayesian network analysis was used to analyze the causation between various factors, including MASH-HCC, examinations, and bacteria. Results: The occupancy rate of the genus Fusobacterium in the intestinal bacterial flora was significantly higher in in the MASH-HCC group than in the MASH group (p = 0.002), whereas that of Butyricicoccus (p = 0.022) and Roseburia (p < 0.05) was significantly lower. Bayesian network analysis revealed the absence of periodontal pathogenic bacteria and enteric bacteria affecting HCC. However, HCC directly affected the periodontal bacterial species Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Prevotella intermedia in the saliva, as well as the genera Lactobacillus, Roseburia, Fusobacterium, Prevotella, Clostridium, Ruminococcus, Trabulsiella, and SMB53 in the intestine. Furthermore, P. gingivalis in the oral cavity directly affected the genera Lactobacillus and Streptococcus in the intestine. Conclusion: MASH-HCC directly affects periodontal pathogenic and intestinal bacteria, and P. gingivalis may affect the intestinal bacteria associated with gastrointestinal cancer.
Marketing Mix of Rattan Business in Nepal
Authors: Chowdhary Chhote Lal
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the marketing mix of rattan canes businesses, with a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Rattan cane enterprises rely on both domestic and international sources for raw materials, and the market is largely unorganized, with individual-level operations dominating the industry. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the marketing mix in relation to the 7Ps framework, which includes price, product, place, promotion, people, process, and physical evidence. A simple random sampling method was employed to select participants from rattan processing enterprises. A questionnaire survey was then conducted among 46 rattan entrepreneurs, representing a total of 66 enterprises, including rattan processing industries, rattan traders, and Community Forest User Groups. The findings of the study indicate that, among the seven Ps, place and process are relatively stronger aspects of service delivery, while price and people are considered moderate. However, product, promotion, and physical evidence are identified as weak areas in terms of service delivery within the rattan business. It is concluded that rattan processing industries continue to rely on traditional tools and technologies, which has resulted in a lack of competitiveness in penetrating both national and international markets. Furthermore, poorly segmented distribution channels have hindered their sales efforts, while limited promotional activities have restricted awareness of their products among potential customers. In conclusion, the study highlights the need for rattan businesses to modernize their operations and adopt more effective marketing strategies in order to enhance their competitiveness and expand their market reach.
Local Versus Global Time in Early Relativity Theory
Authors: DIEKS DENNIS
Published: June 2024

In his groundbreaking 1905 paper on special relativity, Einstein distinguished between local and global time in inertial systems, introducing his famous definition of distant simultaneity to give physical content to the notion of global time. Over the following decade, Einstein attempted to generalize this analysis of relativistic time to include accelerated frames of reference, which, according to the principle of equivalence, should also account for time in the presence of gravity. Characteristically, Einstein’s early methodology focused on simple, intuitively accessible physical situations, often exhibiting a high degree of symmetry. In this paper, we show that while Einstein’s heuristic approach led to significant insights into the nature of relativistic time, it also posed challenges for him in making the final conceptual leap to global time as a conventionally chosen fourth coordinate. We also address some misunderstandings concerning Einstein’s early work on time and the gravitational redshift.
The Skill of Positive Solitude Moderates the Relationship between 24 Character-Strengths and Flourishing in the Second Half of Life
Authors: Bachman Noa , Palgi Yuval , Bodner Ehud
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Objectives: Aging may challenge life and even affect individuals' well-being and flourishing. This includes challenges of shrinking social relations and being by yourself in old age while using your personal strengths. The current study examines two important personal resources, i.e., the skill of positive solitude and the 24 character-strengths, that may be associated with flourishing in old age.
Methods: A convenience sample of 1085 community-dwelling adults (M = 57.20, SD = 6.24, range = 50-87), completed an online self-report survey with demographic measures and scales measuring personal strengths, the skill of positive solitude, and flourishing.
Results: As hypothesized, the 24 character-strengths and positive solitude, were each associated with flourishing, and positive solitude moderated the relationships between the 24 character-strengths and flourishing. The 24 character-strengths and flourishing relationship was stronger among participants with lower levels of positive solitude.
Conclusion: These findings highlight that despite the decrease in social relations which often characterizes old age, the skill of positive solitude serves as a valuable resource for flourishing in the later stages of life.
Floquet Modification of the Bandgaps and Energy Spectrum in Flat-Band Pseudospin-1 Dirac Materials
Authors: Iurov Andrii , Mattis Michael , Zhemchuzhna Liubov , Gumbs Godfrey , Huang Danghong
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we investigate the so-called electronic dressed states, a unified quasiparticle resulting from the interaction between electrons in a two-dimensional material with an off-resonance optical dressing field. If the frequency of this field is much larger than all characteristic energies in the system, such as the Fermi energy or bandgap(s), the electronic band structure is affected by radiation so that some important properties of the electron dispersions could be modified in a way desirable for practical applications. For example, a circularly polarized light can be used to vary the bandgap of Dirac materials: it opens a gap in graphene and other metallic and semimetallic lattices, or modifies the magnitude of an existing gap. This will either enhance or reduce a gap, depending on its initial value as well as properties of a host material. Here, we consider gaped dice and Lieb lattices as samples, and put forward a full theoretical model to reveal how these electronic states are deformed by an elliptically-polarized irradiation with a focus on generation and modification of a bandgap.
Vivienda social invadida y la percepción de soledad: Un estudio de caso sobre los fraccionamientos con viviendas deshabitadas en el suroriente de Ciudad Juárez
Authors: Holguín Ávila Raúl , Maycotte Pansza Elvira
Published: June 2024

This work derives from the need to make visible the perspectives, emotions and interactions of those who, at present, inhabit social housing through a process of invasion in an area that historically has been characterized by a high number of uninhabited dwellings, mainly as a result of neoliberal policies. At the national level, the municipality of Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, has been among the entities with the highest number of uninhabited homes. In the southeastern part of the municipality, the situation is increasing, deriving in practices and perspectives that configure the plot of these places invisibilized under the context of abandonment presented. In this sense, making visible the new forms of inhabiting the uninhabited necessarily implies addressing the relationship between people, objects and built environments, elements that are little developed when it comes to assessing the impacts of urban policy. Through a qualitative approach, the use of the phenomenological method, in-depth interviews and non-participant observation as techniques for obtaining information, this work gathers emotions and perspectives that are situated between loneliness and resistance to abandonment, in a context that limits the possibility of social interactions, and that contrasts with the need for housing as an object of heritage and with the difficulties to access it.
Unlocking Global Efficiency with Enhanced Milling Machines Worldwide
Authors: Lestari Wiwik Puji , Wulandari Indah Apriliana Sari , Sukmono Tedjo , Jakaria Ribangun Bamban
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the effectiveness of six milling machines at PT. INKA, a railroad car manufacturing company, focusing on CNC Plano 133 and Horizontal Milling 142. Utilizing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and Age Replacement methods, the research aims to optimize machine performance and propose preventive maintenance strategies. Data spanning from January 2021 to December 2022 were collected and analyzed. Results indicate that both CNC Plano 133 and Horizontal Milling 142 exhibit suboptimal OEE values, primarily due to breakdown losses. Applying Age Replacement within 10 days significantly enhances reliability, with post-replacement reliability reaching 100%. The findings underscore the importance of preventive maintenance in improving milling machine reliability and overall productivity, thereby enhancing competitiveness and sustainability in the manufacturing sector.
 
Highlight: 
Improved productivity: Preventive maintenance boosts milling machines' reliability and effectiveness.
Resource efficiency: Analyzing OEE minimizes downtime, optimizes production output.
Competitive edge: Enhanced performance sustains competitiveness, strengthens manufacturing sector's sustainability.
 
 
Keyword:  Milling machines, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), Preventive maintenance, Age Replacement, Manufacturing industry
Ethnological-Historiographic View on Seven Ancient Extant Christian Liturgies
Authors: Primorac Jaksa
Published: June 2024

The author analyses comparatively seven ancient extant Christian liturgies: Roman Catholic Tridentine mass, Byzantine liturgy of the Eastern Orthodox Churches, four liturgies of the Oriental Orthodox Churches: Alexandrian-Coptic, Antiochian-Syriac, Armenian and Ethiopian, and finally the liturgy of the Churches of the East: Assyrian and Ancient. Furthermore, the author researches inculturation of Antiochian-Syriac liturgy and Churches of the East liturgy in South India, as well as liturgies in Eastern Catholicism and Western Orthodoxy. This study explores historical events that are crucial to understanding the origin and development of ancient liturgies, as well as major architecture, painting, drama and music aspects of liturgies from ethnological perspective.
Evaluating the Characteristics of Spatial Variability of Soil in Vertical Direction Highly Heterogeneous Region Based on Cone Penetration Test
Authors: Chu Chengfu , Wang Yuhang , Song Hongxiang , Xu Long , Hou Xiaoliang , Sheng Shanshan , Liu Lingling
Published: June 2024

Key parameters describing the spatial variability of soil properties based on the random field theory are the scale of fluctuation (SOF) and coefficient of variation (COV). To characterize the spatial variability of soil properties, reducing the impact of these errors and uncertainties is necessary. To accomplish this, for the five main layers of soil, we collected 18 cone penetration test (CPT) data from a highly heterogeneous region in Lianyungang New Airport, Jiangsu Province, China, and used the control variable method to analyze the influence of the estimation method of tendency, its function type and outliers. The results show that, compared with the ordinary least square method (OLSM), the least absolute deviation method (LADM) can more truly reflect the trend component of CPT parameters in the vertical direction, and the influence of other factors on SOF and COV is also studied, such as outliers and estimation functions of trend components. On this basis, a reasonable calculation process of SOF and COV is summarized, which provides a reference for the calculation of SOF and COV in vertical direction in the future. By comparing the SOF calculated by different models, the results show that the squared exponential (SQX) model has the highest SOF in 68.3% of the evaluation, and the single exponential (SNX) model has the lowest SOF in 64.4% of the evaluation. Moreover, we compared the SOF and COV of cone tip resistance (qc) and sleeve friction (fs), which showed that SOF of qc and COV of qc is lower than that of fs in 54.4 and 73.3% of all evaluations, respectively.
Unveiling the diversity of thaliaceans (Chordata, Thaliacea) from the the South Brazilian Bight and Southern Subtropical Shelf (22° - 33° S)
Authors: Rodrigues Douglas Silva , Nogueira-Júnior Miodeli , Nagata Renato Mitsuo
Published: June 2024

The taxonomic composition of the thaliaceans was analyzed using 86 plankton samples collected in autumn (expeditions: IV= 04/13 to 05/10 2012; VI= 05/09 to 06/12 2013) and spring (expeditions: V= 10/26 to 11/19 2012; VIII= 11/14 to 12/10 2014) on the outer shelf and slope of the South Brazilian Bight and Southern Subtropical Shelf (22°52’ 46” S- 33°41’ 28”). More than 61,000 organisms were examined, classified in 3 orders, 4 families, 13 genera and 18 species. Thalia democratica (Forskål 1775), Doliolum nationalis Boegert 1893 e Salpa fusiformis (Cuvier 1804) were the most common and abundant species. Doliolina krohni Herdman 1888 was recorded for the first time in Brazil, Thalia orientalis Tokioka 1937 was recorded for the first time in the South Brazilian Bight and Booksia rostrata (Traustedt 1893) and Soestia zonaria (Pallas 1774) was recorded for the first time in the Southern Subtropical Shelf. The wide area of the outer shelf and slope sampled in this study revealed the greatest diversity of thaliaceans (~22% of known thaliacean diversity) ever recorded in a faunistic survey in this region of the South Atlantic. The richness estimators, however, did not reach an asymptote and extrapolation showed that the number of species tends to increase as the sampling effort increases.
Functional outcome of the anterior vaginal wall in a pelvic surgery injury rat model after treatment with stem cell-derived progenitors of smooth muscle cells
Authors: Wang Yiting , Wen Yan , Kim Kayla , Wu Hugo , Zhang Jerry , Dobberfuhl Amy D. , Chen Bertha
Published: June 2024

Background: Stem-cell-derived therapy is a promising option for tissue regeneration. Human iPSC-derived progenitors of smooth muscle cells (pSMCs) have limited proliferation and differentiation, which may minimize the risk of in vivo tumor formation while restoring smooth muscle cell deficiencies. Up to 30 % of women who suffer from recurrence of vaginal prolapse after prolapse surgery are faced with reoperation. Therefore, there is an unmet need for therapies that can restore vaginal tissue function. We hypothesize that human pSMCs can restore vaginal function in a vaginal-injury rat model.
Methods: Female immune-compromised RNU rats were divided into 5 groups: intact controls (n=12), VSHAM (surgery + saline injection, n=33), and cell-injection group (surgery + cell injection using three patient pSMCs lines, n=14/cell line). The surgery, similar to what is done in vaginal prolapse surgery, involved ovariectomy, urethrolysis, and vagina injury. The vagina, urethra, bladder dome and trigone were harvested 10 weeks after surgery (5 weeks after injection). Organ bath myography was performed to evaluate the contractile function of vagina, and smooth muscle thickness was examined by tissue immunohistochemistry. Collagen I, collagen III, and elastin mRNA and protein expressions in tissues were assessed.
Results: When compared to the VSHAM group, cell-injection groups showed significantly increased vaginal smooth muscle contractions induced by carbachol (groups A and C) and by KCl (group C), and significantly higher collagen I protein expression in the vagina (groups A and B). Elastin mRNA and protein expressions in the vagina did not correlate with injection group. In the urethra, mRNA expressions of collagen I, collagen III, and elastin were all significantly higher in the cell-injection groups compared to the VSHAM group. Collagen I protein expression of the urethra was also higher in the cell-injection group compared to the VSHAM group. Elastin protein expression in the urethra did not correlate with injection group.
Conclusions: Human iPSC-derived pSMCs improved contractile function of the post-surgery vagina. Additionally, pSMC injection modulated collagen I, collagen III and elastin mRNA and protein expressions in the vagina and urethra. These findings suggest that pSMCs may be a possible therapy for vaginal prolapse recurrence after surgical intervention.
Effects of ginseng total saponins from ginseng stem leaf on spatial learning and memory impairment by exhaustive exercise-induced fatigue: Role of NR2B-CaMKII signal in rat hippocampus
Authors: Guo Chungen , WANG Wenli , ZHU Meiju , ZHU Hongzhu
Published: June 2024

This study is to investigate ginseng total saponins from ginseng stem leaf on the learning and memory of fatigue rats and the mechanism of action. Sixty Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into six groups: normal group, normal + ginseng total saponins (200 mg/kg) group, exercise group, exercise + ginseng total saponins (50, 100, 200 mg/kg)–treated groups. The learning and memory was tested by Morris water maze experiment. After 7 days of exhaustive exercise, we measured hippocampal morphology by electron microscopy. The protein expression levels of synaptophysin ( SYP ), and postsynaptic density (PSD) protein 95 (PSD 95), N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor 2B (NR2B), calcium / calmodulin - dependent protein kinase II ༈CaMKII༉, phospho - NR2B ( p-NR2B ) and phospho - CaMKII ( p - CaMKII ) were measured by western blot analysis. The results demonstrated that ginseng total saponins (100, 200 mg/kg) treatment significantly decreased the latency to find the platform, increased dwell time in the target quadrant and the number of platform crossings of fatigued rats. ginseng total saponins (100, 200 mg/kg) treatment also increased the number of synapses and postsynaptic density (PSD) thickness, shrink the synaptic cleft of synapses in hippocampus of fatigue rats, significantly up-regulated NR2B -CaMKII signal, increased the levels of SYP and PSD 95 protein expression. It suggests that ginseng total saponins could improve the learning and memory of fatigue rats, relating to protecting the morphology of hippocampus, up-regulating NR2B-CaMKII signal in the hippocampus of fatigued rats.
A Short-term Evaluation of Oral Hygiene Education Methods in Fixed Orthodontics Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Assistant Training, Software, and Social Media
Authors: Shafaee Hooman , Saeedi Sorour , Bardideh Erfan , Ghorbani Mahsa , Saeedi Pooya
Published: June 2024

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of different oral hygiene education strategies on periodontal health in fixed orthodontic patients in a one-month period: assistant-led instruction, social media-based education, and custom-made software.
Methods: Sixty orthodontic patients from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences' Dentistry School were randomly assigned into three groups. Each group received oral health education differently: via assistant instruction, educational videos on social media, or a researcher-designed software for Android smartphones. After a month, participants' oral health was evaluated using the plaque index (PI) and the gingival index (GI).
Results: Assistant-led education group demonstrated the highest PI (1.26 ± 0.70) and GI (0.92 ± 0.67), while the software group reported the lowest indices (PI = 0.68, GI = 0.46 ± 0.46). The social media group's measurements fell between these extremes (PI = 0.89 ± 0.75, GI = 0.60 ± 0.52). Significant group differences were found for both PI and GI (P = 0.028 and P = 0.047, respectively). Pairwise comparison revealed significantly lower PI and GI in the software group compared to the assistant group. No significant differences were found between the social media and other groups.
Conclusion: Our results suggest that the use of specially designed software could be the most effective strategy for improving oral hygiene in orthodontic patients. Meanwhile, traditional assistant-led education showed the least effectiveness. The study supports the potential benefit of utilizing digital tools, such as bespoke software and social media, in oral health education for orthodontic patients.
Construction and Application Research of Intelligent Classroom Teaching System Based on TPACK Level of Normal Students in Chinese Colleges and Universities
Authors: Lu Yingdi , Said Mohd Nihra Haruzuan Mohamad
Published: June 2024

At present, the in-depth integration of intelligent technology and education and teaching has become an important trend in current education and teaching. The integration supports technology for potential activities to revolutionize higher education by expanding learning opportunities and fostering greater accessibility, a part of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) for quality education. Technical Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK for short) refers to teachers' knowledge about the complex relationship between technology, teaching method and subject knowledge, and is the knowledge framework needed by teachers when integrating technology in subject teaching. In the past ten years, with the progress of information technology, TPACK framework has been continuously implemented in the relevant research of instructional technology or technology-assisted instruction, which has well promoted the development of current teacher education technology. This paper uses the integrated technology-based subject teaching knowledge (TPACK) model to carry out a questionnaire survey among normal students in colleges and universities in Shaanxi Province so as to investigate the current situation of subject teaching knowledge of integrated technology among normal students in colleges and universities in Shaanxi Province, and propose relevant strategies to improve the subject teaching knowledge of integrated technology for normal students in colleges and universities, and further combined with the smart classroom situation to build a teaching system of TPACK integration model, in order to provide reference for the development of modern teaching ability of normal students in colleges and universities.
Discovery of universal phonon thermal Hall effect in crystals
Authors: Li Shiyan , Jin Xiaobo , Zhang Xu , Wan Wenbo , Wang Hanru , Jiao Yihan
Published: June 2024

Thermal Hall effect (THE) in insulator is a remarkable phenomenon that arises from the motion of chargeless quasi-particles under a magnetic field1-11. While magnons1-3 or exotic spin excitations4,5,12,13 were considered as the origin of THE in some magnetic materials, there are more and more evidences suggesting that phonons play a significant role8-11,14-23. However, the mechanism behind phonon THE is still unknown. Here we report the observation of THE, including planar THE, in a broad range of non-magnetic insulators and semiconductors: SrTiO3, SiO2 (quartz), MgO, MgAl2O4, Si and Ge. While the presence of antiferrodistortive domains in SrTiO3 and chiral phonons in SiO2 may complicate the interpretation of THE, the striking observations of THE in trivial insulators MgO and MgAl2O4, as well as in high-purity intrinsic semiconductors Si and Ge, demonstrate that phonon THE is a universal property of crystals. Without other effects on phonons such as from magnons, this universal phonon THE is characterized by a scaling law of |κxy| ~ κxx2. Our results experimentally discover a fundamental physics of phonons in magnetic field, which should come from the direct coupling between atom vibrations and the field. Starting from this universal phonon THE in crystals, all previous interpretations of THE in magnetic or non-magnetic materials need to be reconsidered.
Assessing the Efficacy of Difficult Airway Alerts in Electronic Medical Records: A Quality Improvement Study
Authors: Lee Wen-Shen , Fletcher Luke R , Tosif Shervin , Makar Timothy , Graham Jon M
Published: June 2024

Study Design: Retrospective analysis of Difficult Airway alerts in a major tertiary centre.
Objective: To investigate the completeness, utility and efficacy of Difficult Airway alerts and their impact on future airway management episodes.
Design, Data Sources and Methods: Patients who had a “Difficult Airway” entry on Electronic Medical Records (EMR) from 2011 to 2021 were included. Each alert was analysed by a team of Anaesthetists with expertise in difficult airway management for its quality, appropriateness, and impact on future airway management episodes.
Results: 141 patients were included for this study, with a mean age of 58.6 +/- 15.3 years. Ninety-three (66%) alerts were created by medical staff, of which 52 were recorded by consultant Anaesthetists. 117 alerts (83%) were deemed to be appropriate by the airway expert team, but only 40 alerts (28%) were found to have sufficient quality to be helpful in emergent airway management. Sixty-five patients (47%) had at least one subsequent airway management episode, of which 35 patients (56%) underwent a change of management following alert creation. We proceeded to modify 103 alerts (73%) to improve their quality to aid future episodes.
Conclusion: Difficult Airway encounters are an uncommon event in Anaesthesia, but clear, comprehensive and effectively communicated documentation is required to minimise the risk in future episodes. Despite our Institution’s sophisticated alert system, difficult Airway management remains poorly communicated. We have taken measures to improve local processes of difficult airway documentation and considered the implications of our project for the broader airway management community.
Trial Registration: Not applicable
Postoperative Evaluation of Special Needs And Healthy Patients with Endodontic Treatment Under General Anesthesia: A Retrospective Research
Authors: Uysal Busenaz , ÖZKAN Hicran DÖNMEZ , KOCATÜRK Özlem
Published: June 2024

Background
The purpose of this retrospective clinical study was to comparatively evaluate the number of restorative treatments, endodontic treatments, and tooth extractions performed under general anesthesia due to dental anxiety or special needs between 2015 and 2022, and to examine the postoperative pain, bleeding, nausea and vomiting data of the patients after these treatments.
Methods
Patients who underwent at least one endodontic treatment under general anesthesia were included in the study. These patients were divided into two main groups: those with special needs and healthy. Restorative treatments and tooth extractions applied to the patients along with their endodontic treatments were noted. Additionally, patients' information regarding pain, nausea, vomiting, and bleeding after treatments was recorded.
Results
Of the total 184 patients included in the study, 70 (38%) were healthy and 114 (62%) had special needs. While a statistically significant difference was found in terms of postoperative bleeding (ꭕ2 = 4.189, p < 0.05) and pain (U = 2922.00, p < 0.05) bleeding was observed more in patients with special needs, and pain was observed more in healthy patients. While the number of anterior restorations, O, and MOD restorations was higher in patients with special needs, the number of OD or OM restorations was higher in healthy patients (ꭕ2 = 74.877, p < 0.05).
Conclusions
The number of restorative treatments was found to be higher in patients with special needs may be associated with the inadequate oral hygiene care of such patients However, restorative treatment is mostly indicated for such patients in our faculty hospital which may indicate that a conservative approach is taken. Additionally, the finding that postoperative bleeding was more severe in this group of patients in this study may emphasize the need to consider more possible complications after general anesthesia in these patients.