bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
YOLO-Based Microglia Activation State Detection
Authors: Liu Jichi , Li Wei , Lyu Houkun , Qi Feng
Published: December 2023

To enhance the precision of identifying microglia activation states, this study proposes a detection network utilizing YOLOv5, which leverages advanced deep learning techniques and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for microglia activation state recognition. The decoupled head is seamlessly included in the Head network, accompanied by the introduction of novel feature extraction modules derived from DenseNet, namely the DenseNet-C2f module and the DenseNet-SimCSPSPPF module. Subsequently, the Wise-IoU is employed as the loss function. The network's performance is evaluated using the Microglia dataset. The experimental findings indicate that the Mean Average Precision of the enhanced network has risen from 59.6–65.6%. Additionally, the recall has increased from 56.3–71.5%. These improvements result in more effective detection performance, better fulfilling the requirements for identifying the activation state of microglia in the field of medicine.
Doxorubicin alters G-protein coupled receptor-mediated vasocontraction in rat coronary arteries
Authors: Lozahic Caroline , Maddock Helen , Wheatley Mark , Sandhu Hardip
Published: December 2023

Doxorubicin (Doxo)-associated cardio-and vasotoxicity has been recognised as a serious complication of cancer chemotherapy. The purpose of this novel paper was to determine the effect of Doxo on G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)-mediated vasocontraction located on vascular smooth muscle cells.
Rat left anterior descending artery segments were incubated for 24 h with 0.5 µM Doxo was applied. The vasocontractile responses by activation of endothelin receptor type A (ETA) and type B (ETB), serotonin receptor 1B (5-HT1B) and thromboxane A2 prostanoid receptor (TP) were investigated by a sensitive myography using specific agonists, while the specificity of the GPCR agonists was verified by applying selective antagonists (i.e. ETA agonist = 10-14-10-7.5 M endothelin-1 (ET-1); ETA antagonist = 10 µM BQ123; ETB agonists = 10-14-10-7.5 M sarafotoxin 6c (S6c) and ET-1; ETB antagonist = 0.1 µM BQ788; 5-HT1B agonist = 10-12-10-5.5 M 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT); 5-HT1B antagonist = 1 µM GR55562; TP agonist = 10-12-10-6.5 M U46619; TP antagonist = 1 µM Seratrodast).
Our results show that 0.5 µM Doxo incubation of LAD segments leads to an increased VSMC vasocontraction through the ETB, 5-HT1B and TP GPCRs, with a 2.2-fold increase in ETB-mediated vasocontraction at 10-10.5 M S6c, a 2.0-fold increase in 5-HT1B-mediated vasocontraction at 10-5.5 M 5-CT, and a 1.3-fold increase in TP-mediated vasocontraction at 10-6.5 M U46619.
Further studies unravelling the involvement of intracellular GPCR signalling pathways will broaden our understanding of the Doxo-induced vasotoxicity, and thus pave the way to mitigate the adverse effects by potential implementation of adjunct therapy options.
Leveraging Electronic Medical Records from Two Hospital Systems Identifies Male Infertility Associated Comorbidities Across Time
Authors: Sirota Marina , Woldemariam Sarah , Xie Feng , Roldan Alennie , Roger Jacquelyn , Tang Alice , Oskotsky Tomiko , Stevenson David , Lathi Ruth , Rajkovic Aleksandar , Aghaeepour Nima , Eisenberg Michael
Published: December 2023

Male infertility (MI) accounts for at least 30% of infertility etiology, yet the full breadth of potential MI risk factors and adverse health outcomes has not been explored. Here, we use electronic medical records (EMRs) from the University of California (UC) and Stanford to implement a data-driven case-control study to identify MI-associated comorbidities. We identified 6,531 and 5,551 MI patients at UC and Stanford, respectively, as well as 8,353 and 2,464 vasectomy control patients at UC and Stanford, respectively. We used temporally-stratified logistic regression analyses to identify MI-associated comorbidities before or after 6 months after a patient’s first MI diagnosis or vasectomy-related record. We found 15 and 2 diagnoses positively associated with MI before and after the 6-month cutoff across both hospital systems and all analyses, respectively, including less expected comorbidities such as hypothyroidism and type 2 diabetes. Our findings can set the groundwork for future studies to clarify the relationship between less expected comorbidities and MI.
Update on X-Ray Microcalorimeter Arrays Based on Thermal MKIDs (TKIDs)
Authors: Daal Miguel , Clay W. Hawkins , Mohammad Majid , Mazin Benjamin
Published: December 2023

We report progress on the development of x-ray microcalorimeter TKID detector arrays, where each TKID is an independent pixel. We discuss the evolution of the design, the fabrication and the pulse and energy resolution data obtained from the our test devices. We also describe the challenges encountered which drove design decisions.
Preference of anesthesia types and associated factors among pregnant mothers scheduled for elective cesarean section in Addis Ababa Governmental Hospitals, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Belachew Ebise , Yuya Sherif Abdi , Seifu Ashenafi , Samuel Hirbo , Abrar Meron , Usso Ahmedin Aliyi
Published: December 2023

Background Caesarean section is one of the most common operations done for women patients. General and regional anesthesia are the types of anesthesia used for C/S at current time to simplify surgery in the operating room. The aim of the study is to assess the pregnant mothers’ preference and factors associated with their preference of anesthesia types for elective Cesarean Section at Addis Ababa Governmental MCH Hospitals.Method and material: Cross sectional study design was conducted. We collected data using interviewer administered questionnaire. Anxiety was measured using APAIS. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS 26 version analysis tool. The descriptive statistic was used, to summarize data, tables and figures for displaying results. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to see the association between preference of anesthesia types and independent variables. Strength of association was measured by AOR within 95% confidence interval.Results Majority of the women, 62.3% preferred spinal anesthesia, 15.2% general anesthesia and 22.6% of them not decided anesthesia types. The odds of uneducated pregnant mothers not deciding anesthesia types rather than spinal anesthesia is nearly 8 times higher compared to mothers having college and above education status. (AOR = 7.760, 95% (CI 2.428, 24.803)). The odds of pregnant mothers who hadn’t information about different types not deciding anesthesia types rather than spinal anesthesia is 38 times more likely compared to mothers who had get information from media. (AOR = 38.302 (5.196,282.333))Conclusions Educational status, occupation, type of previous surgery, type of previous anesthesia, source of information, and having information about different anesthesia types for CS were identified to be significantly associated with anesthesia type preference.
Insects and phytoplasmas in urban trees in a mega-city: a case study in Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Silva-Castaño Andres Felipe , Brochero Helena , Franco-Lara Liliana
Published: December 2023

Urban trees offer many ecosystemic services, however, they are affected by several pathogens such as phytoplasmas. Phytoplasmas cause regulator growth imbalances in infected plants, which produce deviations from the normal plant architecture, among other symptoms. In Bogota, Colombia, ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris’ and ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma fraxini’ infect at least 11 species of urban trees, including Andean oak. This tree species is endemic to Colombia and Panama, and it plays an important ecologic role in wild forests of the Colombian Andes. In Bogotá, knowledge about the insect vectors associated with the transmission of phytoplasmas to Andean oak is scarce. In this work we evaluated the role of Cicadellidae and Psylloidea taxa as possible vectors of phytoplasmas in Bogotá. Cicadellidae and Psylloidea were captured using direct and indirect sampling methods at three contrasting sites in Bogotá, in Andean oaks and neighbouring trees. The insects were identified by morphological and molecular methods and tested for the presence of phytoplasmas. In total, 510 Cicadellidae members of 13 taxa and 129 Psylloidea of 8 taxa were captured; richness and abundance depended on the type and sampling site. The most abundant species were Scaphytopius (Convelinus) sp. (Cicadellidae) and Acizzia uncatoides (Psylloidea). Leafhoppers positive for phytoplasmas were Chiasmodolini, Dikrella (Readionia) sp, Empoasca sp. and Scaphytopius (Convelinus) sp. taxa. Our results suggest that several potential species of phytoplasmas may be dispersing phytoplasmas not only to Andean oaks but to other urban tree species. It is necessary to conduct transmission tests to evaluate the transmission capacity of the potential vectors.
The magnitude and factors associated with ear infection in a Tertiary hospital in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Massawe Willybroad , Shangali Aminiel R , Kamori Doreen , Manisha Anselmo , Mwingwa Anthony G. , Niccodem Elieshiupendo M , Masoud Salim , Kibwana Upendo O. , Manyahi Joel , Majigo Mtebe
Published: December 2023

Background
Ear infection is a common public health problem in developing countries,. There is limited data on the factors that are associated with ear infections, which has hastened the spread of ear infections and the repercussions of ear infection including hearing loss. The study aimed to determine the magnitude and factors associated with ear infection among patients attending Otorhinolaryngology clinic at Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Methods
A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to July 2021. Participants with signs and symptoms of ear infection attending otorhinolaryngology clinic at Muhimbili National Hospital Dar es Salaam, Tanzania were recruited into this study. The clinical information from the participants was collected using a standardized data collection tool and an ear swab was collected and taken to the lab for culture and identification. Data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v23), proportions and percentages were used to indicate the magnitude. The Chi-square test was employed to assess associations between variables, with statistical significance determined at a p-value of 0.05. Logistic regression was used to measure the strength of the association between dependent and independent variables.
Results
A total of 255 eligible participants were enrolled, with a median age of 31 years (IQR: 15–49). The magnitude of ear infection was found to be 53.3% (136 out of 255). Majority (26.8%) of participants with ear infection were elderly above 50 years followed by children under 10 years (17.9%). Additionally, we observed that the factors such as cotton buds use (AOR 2.78, 95%CI 1.08–7.15, p = 0.035), cerumen impaction (AOR 12.86, 95%CI 2.78–59.33, p < 0.001), recurrent upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) (AOR 3.43, 95%CI 1.22–10.03, p = 0.019), nasal congestion/discharge (AOR 3.55, 95% CI 1.36–9.27, p = 0.010) and ear cleaning (AOR 3.45, 95% CI 1.44–8.25, p = 0.005) were independently associated with ear infection.
Conclusions
The present study has revealed a relatively high magnitude of ear infection, with elders above 50 years and children below 10 years accounting for the majority of cases. Our study findings show that nasal congestion, recurrent URTI, use of cotton buds, cerumen impaction and ear cleaning are potential risk factors for ear infection.
Comparative Impact of TDF and ETV on the Prognosis of HCC Patients with Concurrent MASLD and HBV Infection after Hepatectomy
Authors: Kong Qingyan , Gao Qianqian , Li Wenjie , Chen Zheyu
Published: December 2023

Background: Currently, there remains ongoing controversy about the selection of postoperative antiviral drugs for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with concurrent metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (HPMH) who underwent hepatectomy.
Methods: A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model and a propensity score matching (PSM) analysis were implemented to ensure equal baseline characteristics. The Kaplan‒Meier survival curves were employed for prognosis comparison between the two groups.
Results: This study included 225 HPMH who all received post-hepatectomy antiviral therapy; with 107 in the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) group and 118 in the entecavir (ETV) group.
In the entire cohort, according to the multivariate analysis, patients in the TDF group showed better recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR=0.78; 95% CI, 0.55-0.95; p=0.030) and overall survival (OS) (HR=0.52; 95% CI, 0.30-0.97; p=0.021) than those in the ETV group. After executing a PSM analysis, Kaplan‒Meier survival curve analysis disclosed significant differences for both RFS and OS between the two groups (p=0.03 and p=0.01, respectively).
Conclusions: In summary, our study suggests a more significant association of TDF in improving RFS and OS than ETV in HPMH who underwent hepatectomy through multivariate and PSM analysis. These findings indicate that the choice of antiviral drugs in HPHM holds crucial significance in guiding patient long-term prognosis.
Effect of bacterial vaginosis on induced labour in the third trimester of pregnancy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Yin , Liu Shuhua , Liu Dehong , Wu Xiumei , Zheng Chenmin , Ye Xi , Chen Xianxia
Published: December 2023

Purpose
The aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that pregnant women diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis (BV) may encounter more adverse outcomes during induced labour.
Methods
The study population consisted of 474 pregnant women who were categorized into two groups based on the findings of a vaginal discharge test: BV group and the nonvaginitis group. The BV group consisted of both the BV group and the BV + vulvovaginal candidiasis(VVC) group. Based on the Bishop score, labour induction was performed utilizing diverse techniques, such as the insertion of a dinoprostone plug, and amniotomy in conjunction with oxytocin. The statistical analysis of the experimental data was conducted using SPSS software.
Results
Compared to the nonvaginitis group, the BV group exhibited a higher incidence of caesarean section and a lower incidence of vaginal delivery (24.24% vs. 11.99%; 75.76% vs. 88.01%; P = 0.001). Additionally, the BV group experienced a greater occurrence of adverse maternal and infant outcomes, including increased postpartum bleeding, postpartum haemorrhage, blood transfusion, chorioamnionitis, postpartum urinary retention, puerperal infection, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, neonatal infection, and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (p༜0.05). In comparison to the BV + VVC group, the BV group exhibited elevated levels of postpartum bleeding, postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), blood transfusion, chorioamnionitis, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, neonatal infection (n,%) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (n,%) (p༜0.05). After controlling for age, BMI, Bishop score, history of vaginitis during pregnancy, and mode of induction, statistically significant differences in adverse maternal and child outcomes between BV and nonvaginitis groups persisted.
Conclusion
BV during the third trimester of pregnancy has been correlated with a significant increase in the incidence of caesarean section following labour induction in primiparous women, as well as adverse outcomes for both mothers and infants. It is imperative for clinicians to allocate greater attention towards the assessment of BV during the third trimester of pregnancy.
Assessment of Lactococcus cremoris preparations for the pre- and post-milking teat disinfection
Authors: Gazzola A. , Zucali M. , Addis M.F. , Bava L. , Morandi S. , Pisanu S. , Pagnozzi D. , Passera A. , Brasca M. , Piccinini R.
Published: December 2023

Good hygienic milking practices include the disinfection of the cows’ teat skin before and after milking aimed at reducing the entry of pathogens and preventing the occurrence of new intramammary infections (IMI) in dairy cows. This practice is generally performed using disinfectants, and in the current context of attention to the emergence of resistances, it is of greatest interest to evaluate alternative solutions that can expand treatment options. We assessed the efficacy of a pre-dipping and a post-dipping product based on the bacteriocin-containing preparation of Lactococcus cremoris strain FT27, as compared to commercial disinfectants. FT27 was selected for the bactericidal activity in vitro against food pathogens. In the present study, it also revealed a high bactericidal activity against the main mastitis pathogens, most likely related to Nisin A production, according to genomic and proteomic analysis. The lactococcus-based preparations were applied in two commercial dairy farms in Northern Italy. Overall 380 dairy cows were enrolled, 182 in the treated group (TR), and 198 in the control group (CTR). The cows were sampled at quarter level every two weeks for 3 months. During the trial, all cows showed a good health status. The hygiene level for udder, flanks and legs was generally good (on average < 3 score); the udder hygiene was significantly worse in the CTR group. The teat apex hyperkeratosis was overall low (on average < 2 score). We recorded no significant differences between the two experimental groups in the Somatic Cell Count (SCC) values and the bacteriological results. The overall frequency of bacteriologically positive quarters was low and was not related to any SCC increase. Staphylococcus aureus was the only contagious pathogen isolated, in both TR and CTR groups, in 13 cows and 10 cows, respectively, at only 1–2 time points. Notably, the incidence of this pathogen did not increase during the study, even though neither of the two herds segregated the positive cows. The non-inferiority test showed that the Lactococcus-based pre- and post-dipping products had an efficacy comparable to proven commercial disinfectants in maintaining udder health and preventing new IMI, thus representing a possible alternative to current teat dip products.
Correlation and Analysis of Lipid Profiles and Inflammatory Markers in Psoriasis Patients: A Retrospective Study of 200 Clinical Psoriasis Patients
Authors: Zhang Boping , Qu Tiange , Hou Xianliang , Li Linging , Wu Fenfang
Published: December 2023

Objectives
This study aims to explore the relationship between metabolic markers and inflammatory indicators in patients with psoriasis, specifically focusing on forms characterized by erythroderma and pustular lesions.
Design & Methods
We analyzed data from patients treated at the Department of Dermatology, Dongzhimen Hospital, affiliated with Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, between January 2010 and May 2023. A retrospective statistical methodology was employed to thoroughly examine the collected data.
Results
A significant correlation was observed between serum albumin (ALB) levels and psoriasis, particularly in cases with erythroderma and pustular lesions. ROC curve analysis revealed that patients with ALB levels below 33g/L are at increased risk for these specific psoriasis forms. Serum albumin (ALB) was positively correlated with total cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (p < 0.05), while it was negatively correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP), IgE, and IL-6 (p < 0.05). CRP was positively correlated with IL-6 (Spearman r = 0.551, p < 0.01), serum complement C1q (Spearman r = 0.28, p < 0.01), and IgE (Spearman r = 0.273, p < 0.01).
Conclusion
Patients with ALB levels below 33g/L have a higher risk and prevalence of erythrodermic and pustular psoriasis. These findings suggest that ALB could serve as a novel biomarker for differentiating between plaque psoriasis and erythrodermic and pustular psoriasis.
Comparative study of mediation practices in European countries
Authors: Zhomartkyzy Maria
Published: December 2023

The article «A Comparative Study of Mediation Practices in European Countries» is an analytical review of the effectiveness and features of mediation in the context of different European countries. The authors conduct a comparative analysis of mediation practices in the selected countries, identifying similarities, differences and successful methods, used in conflict resolution. Using case studies from different countries, the article examines aspects, such as mediator selection, procedures, consent practices and enforcement. The results of the use of mediation in various fields, including family, commercial and socio-political conflicts, are discussed. The authors note the positive impact of mediation on social relations, reducing the workload of judges and increasing confidence in the justice system. The article provides an in-depth analysis of the effectiveness and features of mediation in the context of different European countries. The article focuses on the structure and organization of mediation processes in different European countries. Case studies are used to examine such aspects as the selection of mediators, mediation procedures, and the importance of the parties' consent. The analysis emphasizes the positive effects of mediation, such as improving social relations, reducing the burden on the judicial system, and building confidence in dispute resolution mechanisms. The article also emphasizes the importance of comparative study of mediation practices in European countries in order to enrich the experience and develop more effective methods of conflict resolution. The results of this study are relevant both for mediation professionals and for legislators and decision-makers seeking to optimize mediation practice in their countries.
Government Ownership and Managers’ Role: Effect to Acquisition Return Among High-Technology Companies
Authors:   Labuan Faculty of International Finance, Universiti Malaysia Sabah Labuan International Campus, Jalan Sungai Pagar, 87000 Federal Territory of Labuan, Malaysia, Ishak Norhamiza , Shahar Hanita Kadir ,   School of Economics, Finance and Banking, Universiti Utara Malaysia, 06010 UUM Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia, Taufil Mohd Kamarun Nisham ,   School of Economics, Finance and Banking, Universiti Utara Malaysia, 06010 UUM Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the effect of high-technology (high-tech) company acquisitions and GLIC ownership on shareholders’ value creation. Study samples for empirical analyses were carried out using the market-model event-study and multivariate analysis on studies published between 2011 and 2018. The findings indicate that; (i) The CAR for high-tech acquiring firms for the three-day event window (–1,1), five-day event window (–2, +2) and 11-day event window led to significant positive returns, with at least at 10% level, signifying that investors have a favourable reaction towards short-term high-tech acquisitions; (ii) The relationship between the GLICs’ Institutional Blockholders (BPSVGLIC) and executive director (FRACEXEC) was found to affect the abnormal returns significantly negatively at a minimum 5% significance level. These results provide two practical implications; firstly, investors gain abnormal returns from their investment in high-tech acquiring companies, and secondly, firms with greater ownership stakes in GLICs could experience value destruction.
The Impact of Capital Regulations on Bank Margins of ASEAN Banking Sector
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Business, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia, Khan Fatin Nur Hidayah Taib , Malim Nurhafiza Abdul Kader ,   School of Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Masron Tajul Ariffin ,   School of Management, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Rahim Rossazana Ab ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
Published: December 2023

Basel Committee on banking supervision (BCBS) has issued Basel which requires the banks to comply with the minimum capital requirement after the crisis. Nevertheless, whether the requirement imposes impact the banking sector which comprises a dual banking system, in a positive manner is still questionable. Given the higher capital costs from the strict capital requirements, banks are being forced to raise bank margins. This study investigates the effect of capital regulations on conventional and Islamic banks’ margins covering the ASEAN banking system from 2009 to 2017. The empirical analysis uses dynamic panel data frameworks to reveal several factors affecting bank margins. Overall, the results suggest that the total regulatory capital ratio helps reduce the margins of conventional banks but does not influence the margins of Islamic banks. As for the Tier-1 capital ratio, the variable increases the Islamic bank margins but does not significantly affect conventional bank margins. Based on the analysis results, regulators of conventional banks need to impose capital requirements as suggested by Basel III to reduce bank margins. Meanwhile, as for Islamic banks, the bank margins can be reduced if regulators can introduce a separate set of requirements tailored explicitly for Islamic banks.
Dividend and Excess Return in China
Authors:   School of Business, Shenzhen Institute of Technology, No. 1, Jiangjunmao Road, Longgang, Shenzhen 518116, Guangdong, China, Da Jiaqi ,   Putra Business School, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia, Nassir Annuar Md ,   School of Economics and Management, Xiamen University Malaysia, 429, Lee Shin Cheng Building (A2), Jalan Sunsuria, Bandar Sunsuria, 43900 Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia, Saw Andrew Tek Wei ,   Labuan Faculty of International Finance, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (Labuan International Campus), Jalan Sungai Pagar, 87000 Federal Territory of Labuan, Malaysia, Zhang Hui ,   School of Business, Shenzhen Institute of Technology, No. 1, Jiangjunmao Road, Longgang, Shenzhen 518116, Guangdong, China, Lau Wei Theng ,   School of Business and Economics, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: December 2023

Investors are always chasing excess returns. To examine the three driving factors affecting China A-share excess returns, namely systematic risk, idiosyncratic risk and market sentiment, this study divided A-shares into non-dividend and dividend-paying groups based on the Dividend Paid for Common Shares in the notes of the financial report. In addition, this study used the Capital Asset Pricing model, Single-Index model, Arbitrage Pricing theory and Fama-French three- and five-factor model to analyse the three main driving factors. The Gibbons-Ross-Shanken test was used to test the model validity, and the optimal model for each group was extracted. Our findings show that after analysing the optimal models within each group, it becomes evident that systematic risk indeed exerts an influence on both dividend-paying and non-dividend companies. Nevertheless, when considering four specific systematic risks (inflation, exchange rates, crude oil and interest rates), this study’s findings establish that these risks do not significantly impact the stock returns of any company group across all time periods. As for idiosyncratic risks, firm size and book-to-market factors emerge as substantial influencers across all firms. Additionally, market sentiment significantly affects the stock performance of small-sized dividend-paying companies.
Churches Still Need Help: A Reflection of Churches’ Digital Needs in a Post-Pandemic Era
Authors: Campbell Heidi A. , Osteen Sophia
Published: December 2023

This report explores the current challenges and needs that congregations continue to face related to technology use. This work provides another in-depth analysis of key themes raised in the Tech in Churches During COVID-19 research project. The project explores the priorities of pastors implementing technological solutions during the pandemic, which became critical in helping churches transition to online gatherings in order to serve members during and post-pandemic life
Microalgae cultivation in bio-electrochemical systems
Authors: Mishra A. , Chhabra M.
Published: December 2023

Biofuels from algae have the potential to completely replace fossil-based fuels and provide energy security for the future. However, the cost of algae biofuels is still too high for commercial application. In this context, producing algae and electrical energy using photosynthetic microbial fuel cells (PMFCs) is an attractive option. PMFCs utilize the natural process of photosynthesis for algae generation or algae degradation at the anode. In the former system, the process of organic matter degradation complements the process of algae biomass production with concomitant power generation. Electrogenic bacteria oxidize organic matter at the anode anaerobically. The anode transfers the electrons released through oxidation to the cathode, where photosynthetic organisms produce oxygen (O2) as a cathodic electron acceptor. The suitability of bio-electrochemical systems such as microbial fuel cells for algae cultivation can be assessed by comparing them with the conventional method of cultivation, namely open ponds and photobioreactors. PMFCs offer a process that can provide high carbon dioxide concentrations for algal growth, has a mechanism to prevent high inhibitory O2 concentrations and can meet a fraction of the process electricity requirements. The algae biomass can go as high as 4–5 g/L in a PMFC and power output doubles due to activity of algae at the cathode compartment. This chapter discusses the algal growth in bio-electrochemical systems, the factors that influence them and directions for future research.
Tritium contents in drinking and surface seawaters before the nuclear power plant planned in Sinop (Türkiye) and their radiological risks on human population
Authors: Dizman Serdar , Aşık Feyza Zeynep , Özçelik Ali Erdem , Keser Recep , Görür Filiz Korkmaz
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the background levels of tritium radioisotope in drinking and seawater samples of Sinop province before the nuclear power plant was established in Sinop. In this context, a total of 174 water samples were collected, these are as follows: nine drinking water samples from the Sinop center and districts and 165 seawater samples from the seacoast from Samsun to Kastamonu. Tritium concentrations in the collected water samples were measured by the liquid scintillation counter. The minimum detectable activity for the method used was found to be 1.48 Bq/L. The tritium concentrations of the seawater and drinking water samples were found in the range of <MDA (minimum detectable activity)-6.29 Bq/L and 2.45–3.17 Bq/L, respectively. In addition, the annual effective dose rates of the people consuming these drinking waters due to the tritium radioisotope were calculated separately for infants, children and adults and found to be 12.12, 16.96 and 35.38 nSv, respectively.
Hydrogen peroxide preoxidation as a strategy for enhanced antimicrobial photodynamic action against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Sammarro Silva Kamila Jessie , Lima Alessandra Ramos , Dias Lucas Danilo , de Souza Mariana , Nunes Lima Thalita Hellen , Bagnato Vanderlei Salvador
Published: December 2023

Antimicrobial photodynamic treatment (aPDT) is a photooxidative process based on the excitation of a photosensitizer (PS) in the presence of molecular oxygen, under specific wavelengths of light. It is a promising method for advanced treatment of water and wastewater, particularly targeting disinfection challenges, such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB). Research in improved aPDT has been exploring new PS materials, and additives in general. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) a widely applied disinfectant, mostly in the food industry and clinical settings, present environmentally negligible residuals at the usually applied concentrations, making it friendly for the water and wastewater sectors. Here, we explored the effects of preoxidation with H2O2 followed by blue light-mediated (450 nm) aPDT using curcumin (a natural-based PS) against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Results of the sequential treatment pointed to a slight hampering in aPDT efficiency at very low H2O2 concentrations, followed by an increasing cooperative effect up to a deleterious point (≥7 log10 inactivation in CFU mL–1), suggesting a synergistic interaction of preoxidation and aPDT. The increased performance in H2O2-pretreated aPDT encourages studies of optimal operational conditions for the assisted technology and describes potentials for using the described strategy to tackle the issue of ARB spread.
Trabalho e saúde mental: produzindo reflexões com docentes de magistério superior em enfermagem
Authors: Santos Natânia Candeira dos , Cortez Elaine Antunes , Valente Geilsa Soraia Cavalcanti , Silva Mariana de Oliveira Marques da , Ferreira Lilian Maria de Oliveira , Campos Carina Corrêa Bonates
Published: December 2023

Este estudo objetiva refletir junto aos docentes de magistério superior em enfermagem sobre a relação entre o trabalho docente e a promoção da saúde mental. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e exploratório, de abordagem qualitativa, do tipo Pesquisa Convergente Assistencial. Por se tratar do recorte de uma dissertação, neste artigo será discutido uma etapa da fase de perscrutação, que se trata da entrevista-conversação através da problematização pelo arco de Maguerez. A coleta de dados aconteceu entre os meses de abril e junho de 2022, contando, nesta etapa, com a participação de 7 docentes de uma Universidade Federal no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. A pesquisa foi aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa, com o número de CAAE: 49377721.5.0000.5243. Durante a caminhada pelas etapas do arco, os diálogos evidenciam as relações de poder e as relações interpessoais como grandes desestimuladoras na produção de cuidado e de saúde mental no trabalho. Posturas de centralização de poder e individualidade, reforçam a manutenção de organizações rígidas que não favorecem a saúde dos profissionais, interferem nas tentativas de problematização das práticas e dos processos de trabalho, e consequentemente, prejudicam na concretização de um espaço e de uma política institucional para que ocorra participação ativa dos trabalhadores, defrontando as relações de poder. Ademais, reflete-se sobre que diretrizes e políticas se fazem necessárias para pensar saúde mental nas universidades, de modo que haja uma maior diligência no lidar com os conflitos e com as relações de poder.
Palavras-Chave: Docentes; Enfermagem; Saúde Mental; Promoção da Saúde; Universidades.
A Comparative Analysis of Renal Neoplasms with Immunohistochemistry
Study: Bahrain Experience
Authors: Alkhalifa Haya Khaled Ali Abdulla , Husain Khaled Hameed , Nagaraj Veena , Raees Ayman , Darwish Abdulla
Published: December 2023

Background::

The incidence of renal neoplasms has been increasing globally. Immunohistochemistry aids in differentiating the subtypes of Renal Cell
Carcinoma (RCC).

Objective::

This study aimed to describe the demography of renal cancer in the Kingdom of Bahrain, comparing it to other regions worldwide, emphasizing the
most common type of renal cancer, clinical presentation, and immunohistochemistry.

Methodology::

This retrospective chart review comprises 74 Bahraini patients diagnosed with Renal neoplasms (from 2009-2019) at the Bahrain Defense Force
(BDF) Hospital in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Variables collected include demographics, clinical presentation from patients’ electronic records and
pathology registry, surgical management, immunohistochemistry, pathological staging, grading, and prognosis. IBM SPSS Statistics, version
28.0.0.0, was used.

Results::

About 71 patients’ characteristics were analyzed; 63 had malignant neoplasms, and 8 had benign neoplasms. The mean age of patients with a
malignant renal neoplasm was 56.38 (± 12.643). The most common presentation was an incidental finding (60.6% of lesions being right-sided).
Clear Cell RCC was the most common malignant lesion (77.1%), and the most common stage was stage 1 (69.8%). CD10 and vimentin were
100% sensitive for Clear Cell RCC. No significant association was found between diabetes and a higher Fuhrman grade (3 or 4) (P = 0.066).

Conclusion::

From 2009 to 2019, renal neoplasms incidence increased. The most common malignant neoplasm was clear cell RCC and among benign tumours
was oncocytoma. Immunohistochemistry plays an important role in subtype determination. One recommendation would be to assess the incidence
of renal neoplasms in other hospitals in Bahrain to establish more epidemiological data and compare our results with other Gulf hospitals
Protein Profiling of Hirudo orientalis During Different Seasons for Obtaining Accurate Results in Leech Therapy
Authors: Amani Leili , Ardakani Mehran Mirabzadeh , Motamed Nasrin , Malek Masuomeh , Shasaltaneh Marzieh Dehghan
Published: December 2023

Objective:

Leech therapy has been used for centuries as a recommended approach to
cure several diseases, such as; psoriasis, arthrosclerosis, urinary tract diseases, and wound healing.
The present study aimed to analyze the number, quantity, and distribution differences of medicinal
leech (Hirudo orientalis) proteins throughout various seasons and in laboratory conditions as well.

Methods:

Protein profiling of salivary gland secretion from leech was studied by SDS-PAGE and
2D Electrophoresis on the proteins with the molecular weight range of 5 - 250 KDa in the lyophilized
salivary gland secretion (SGS) during the seasons of summer and winter, and also in the laboratory
conditions.

Results:

Our results indicated differences in the number and quality of leech saliva proteins in different
seasons. We observed a higher number of proteins in summer than in winter. These results
demonstrated the presence of Calin and Manillase in summer and Hyaluronidase and Collagenase
in winter.

Conclusion:

This study could help us in choosing the best and most favorable conditions for using
H. orientalis proteins for the treatment of different diseases.
The Enhancement of Hepatic Parenchyma and Portal Vein in different CLD
Groups: A Comparative Study of Gadoxetic Acid and Gadopentetate
Dimeglumine
Authors: Du Yan-Ni , Liu Yan-LI , Guan Chun-Shuang , Lv Zhi-Bin , Xing Yu-Xue , Xue Ming , Xie Ru-Ming
Published: December 2023

Background::

Chronic liver disease (CLD) will affect the enhancement of hepatic parenchyma and portal vein on abdominal-enhanced MRI.

Objective::

To investigate the difference in liver parenchyma and portal vein enhancement in patients with CLD of different liver function grades between Gd-
EOB-DTPA and Gd-DPTA in the portal venous phase (PVP).

Methods::

This retrospective study included 218 patients with CLD who had undergone abdominal enhanced MRI from January 2019 to June 2020. Patients
with various degrees of liver dysfunction were identified with Child-Turcotte-Pugh and albumin-bilirubin grade. Two readers measured the
precontrast and PVP signal intensities of liver parenchyma, portal vein, spleen, and psoas muscle. Relative liver enhancement, liver-to-spleen
contrast index, portal vein image contrast, and portal vein-to-liver contrast were calculated.

Results::

The relative enhancement of liver parenchyma was significantly lower for the Gd-EOB-DTPA group in any degree of liver function than the Gd-
DTPA group in the PVP. The Gd-EOB-DTPA group showed significantly lower portal vein-to-liver contrast in the overall study population, CTP
class B, and ALBI grade 2 patients compared to the group of Gd-DTPA at PVP. No significant difference was noted in the portal vein image
contrast between the two contrast agents, regardless of CTP and ALBI grading.

Conclusion::

In CLD patients, Gd-EOB-DTPA yielded lower liver parenchymal enhancement and similar portal vein image contrast compared to Gd-DTPA in
the PVP. Portal vein-to-liver contrast in the Gd-EOB-DTPA group was lower in the CTP class B and ALBI grade 2 subgroups compared to the Gd-
DTPA group.
Identifying Pathological Myopia Associated Genes with A Random
Walk-Based Method in Protein-Protein Interaction Network
Authors: Zhang Jiyu , Huang Tao , Sun Qiao , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2023

Background:

Pathological myopia, a severe variant of myopia, extends beyond the typical
refractive error associated with nearsightedness. While the condition has a strong genetic
component, the intricate mechanisms of inheritance remain elusive. Some genes have been associated
with the development of pathological myopia, but their exact roles are not fully understood.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify novel genes associated with pathological myopia.

Methods:

Our study leveraged DisGeNET to identify 184 genes linked with high myopia and 39
genes related to degenerative myopia. To uncover additional pathological myopia-associated
genes, we employed the random walk with restart algorithm to investigate the protein-protein interactions
network. We used the previously identified 184 high myopia and 39 degenerative myopia
genes as seed nodes.

Results:

Through subsequent screening tests, we discarded genes with weak associations, yielding
103 new genes for high myopia and 33 for degenerative myopia.

Conclusion:

We confirmed the association of certain genes, including six genes that were confirmed
to be associated with both high and degenerative myopia. The newly discovered genes are
helpful to uncover and understand the pathogenesis of myopia.
A Review on High-speed Electric Spindle Dynamics Modeling and Vibration Response Research
Authors: Dai Ye , Qiao Binbin , Chen Xinda , Pan Gaofeng
Published: December 2023

Background:

One of the main directions of modern technology in the field of precision
machining is high-speed operation. The spindle system is commonly utilized in this kind of operation,
and the electric spindle is the main preference among high-speed machine tool spindles.

Objective:

High-speed electric spindle vibration characteristics affect the machining accuracy of
the machine tool and the quality of the workpiece, so the research on high-speed electric spindle
vibration characteristics has important engineering practical significance.

Methods:

The research status of high-speed electrospindle at home and abroad has been summarized
in this paper. Combined with the patents related to the dynamics modelling of electrospindle,
the research on the dynamics modelling of high-speed electrospindle is analyzed. On this basis,
the computational and analytical methods for the vibration modelling of the electrospindle, including
the transfer matrix method and the finite element method, are investigated, the theoretical
foundations of these methods are discussed in depth, and the advantages and disadvantages of the
methods are evaluated. The applicability and limitations of the two methods are also compared.

Results:

The analysis has shown that the current research on the vibration characteristics of highspeed
electrospindle is mainly based on mechanical modal analysis and electromagnetic analysis.
At present, the dynamic modeling of the electrospindle mainly includes bearing modeling, shaft
bearing modeling, spindle-case modeling, electrospindle electromechanical coupling modeling,
electrospindle thermal coupling modeling, etc. The correctness of the modelling theory is verified
through experimental and simulation results. Although these models tend to be perfected, they are
still insufficient in the case of multiple influencing factors coupling and need further development.

Conclusion:

Finally, through the analysis of the patent and dynamic characteristics related to the
high-speed electric spindle, thermal deformation, magnetic tension, material, and other factors
should be considered comprehensively, and these factors should be coupled to establish an overall
dynamics model for the vibration characteristics analysis. The dynamic modelling, vibration modelling
method, and vibration characteristics of the high-speed electric spindle have been summarized
in this study, and the outlook is presented.
A Distorted Light Field Image Correction Method Based on Improved
Hough Transform
Authors: Zhang Ruihua , Bi Shubo
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

In using a camera to take photos, due to environmental limitations,
uneven lighting can cause uneven distribution of the image light field, resulting in distortion of
the image background and target, blurring of details, and distorted light field images.

Method:

In view of this, research is conducted on the correction of distorted light field images
based on the Hough transform. First, the improved Hough transform is utilized to locate the
four coordinates, the matrix information of the normal image is applied to calculate the corresponding parameter amount, and then the low-frequency part of the image spectrum is removed. Finally, it uses the Gaussian function for difference, inputs the original data, and gets
the correction result of the distorted light field image.

Result:

The research results indicate that in the practical application of the distorted light field
image correction algorithm based on the Hough transform, the improved Hough transform algorithm is superior to the traditional one.

Conclusion:

In comparative experiments, the research algorithm outperforms the other three
algorithms, with an average color restoration of 93.76% and an average signal-to-noise ratio of
54.22dB. The superiority of the research algorithm has been verified, indicating that the research method can perfectly correct distorted light field images and achieve good correction
results.
Application of MXenes in Photodetectors
Authors: Patel A.
Published: December 2023

Photodetectors are semiconductor devices with photoelectric conversion functions that play a significant part in many fields, including UV radiation skin sensors, biological sensing, optical communication, biomedical sensing, etc. Scientists are interested in 2D materials because of their great physical, chemical, thermal, and flexibility qualities, nano-sized thickness, and outstanding electronic and optical capabilities. A novel class of 2D materials called MXenes contains carbon nitrides, transition metals carbides, and nitrides. MXenes have numerous advantages including excellent structural thermal stability, higher conductivity, excellent optical properties, etc. Therefore, MXenes are extensively attractive to the application fields of the photodetector.