bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AE-YOLOv5 for Detection of Power Line Insulator Defects
Authors: Shen Wei , Fang Ming , Wang Yuxia , Zhang Weifeng , Xiao Jiafeng , Chen Huangqun
Published: March 2024

The power transmission network, which delivers power energy from generator to customers, plays an important role in the power grid. Insulator is a basic component in the power transmission network. Its defects may lead to the paralysis of the entire transmission network, resulting in serious electricity accidents. Therefore, how to use artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to realize automatic detection of power line insulator defects has become an urgent problem to be solved. To accurately detect insulator defects in complex environment, this paper proposes Attention Enhanced YOLOv5 (AE-YOLOv5) by inserting visual attention modules into original YOLOv5 model. In particular, we design a Channel-Spatial Attention module and plug it into the backbone of YOLOv5 to enhance its representation learning ability. Furthermore, a Multi-scale Attention module is also proposed to enhance the Feature Pyramid Network (FPN). To validate the efficacy of our proposed model, we conducted training and testing on a dataset collected from real-world scenarios. The experimental results demonstrate that our model can effectively and accurately detect defects of power line insulators in real-time.
The Influence of Walking environment on the Sports Participation Willingness and Physiological and psychological health of Urban Residents: Evidence from Western China
Authors: Liu Li , Zhang Tingran , Liu Yongsen , luo jiong
Published: March 2024

Objective
To explore the impact of community walking environment on residents' willingness to participate in sports and health status in western China's urban communities.
Methods
this study takes the layout of community fitness paths in the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Zone community of western China as the survey object, and uses SPSS 21.0 statistical analysis software to process the obtained database.
Results
The choice of fitness path is not related to the gender and personal income of residents, but rather to their educational level, occupational category, and age; The exercise willingness of residents is influenced by factors such as the safety of the exercise path, the safety of the surrounding environment, residential density, accessibility of public facilities, the quality of the path facilities, the path landscape, and the size of the space.
Conclusion
The exercise willingness is the most important factor affecting the physiological and psychological health of residents. Improving the exercise obstacles in the walking environment and further ensuring the safety of the exercise process and fitness facilities is the key to enhancing the exercise willingness of residents.
Applying new criteria for higher education campuses to serve special-needs students, A Case Study of the AASTMT Alexandria Campus
Authors: Darwish Nancy Farouk
Published: March 2024

This research focuses on addressing the challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly in the context of higher education buildings in Egypt. Despite the increasing percentage of people with disabilities in the country, many students with physical impairments are unable to attend universities due to the lack of accessibility in campus buildings. The main difficulty is how to create an environment where diverse students with varying requirements, abilities, preferences, and moods can study the same curriculum simultaneously. This study aims to evaluate the accessibility of a specific campus, the AASTMT, by comparing it with a successful example, Goldsmiths, University of London. This research identified areas for improvement, outdoor elements such as outdoor obstacles, accessible parking, clear signage, easy entrances, curb ramps, pathways, and steps, and indoor elements such as insufficiently accessible toilets, lifts, stairs, and fixed furniture hindering wheelchair use. The case study concluded that the AASTMT was successful for 80% of the evaluated criteria. This research emphasizes the importance of implementing elements that facilitate independent movement for students with physical impairments.
Einfluss der Infarkttopografie auf das klinische Behandlungsergebnis nach Thrombektomie bei Patienten mit M1- und Carotis-T-Verschluss
Authors:   , Kopp Ellen
Published: March 2024

Die kathetergestützte Thrombektomie ist, spätestens seitdem 2015 verschiedene Studien ihre Überlegenheit zur alleinigen medikamentösen Behandlung gezeigt haben, die bevorzugte Therapie bei Patienten mit akutem ischämi-schem Schlaganfall und embolischen Verschluss einer großen intrakraniellen Arterie. Obwohl die mechanische Thrombektomie mittlerweile zur Standardthe-rapie zählt, ist der Zusammenhang zwischen Lokalisation des Infarktareals und klinischem Behandlungsergebnis nach Thrombektomie bisher nicht gut untersucht. Die dieser Studie zugrunde liegende Hypothese war, dass Infarktdemar-kationen in der zentralen Corona radiata, Capsula interna und/oder den Ba-salganglien aufgrund einer potenziellen Schädigung der Fasern des Tractus corticospinalis mit einem schlechten Behandlungsergebnis (mRS 3 bis 6) nach mechanischer Thrombektomie assoziiert sind. Ziel dieser Studie war es somit, den Behandlungserfolg nach Thrombektomie bei Patienten mit entsprechender Infarktlokalisation zu untersuchen. Hierfür wurden die Daten von 70 erwachsenen Patienten analysiert, die im Zeitraum von April 2016 bis Januar 2020 im Institut für Neuroradiologie des Universitätsklinikums Frankfurt aufgrund eines ischämischen Infarktes mit entsprechender Infarktdemarkation eine mechanische Thrombektomie erhalten haben. Alle erhobenen Daten stammen aus der elektronischen Krankenakte, dem Radiologie-Informations-System oder einem prospektiven Register zur internen Qualitätssicherung. Es erfolgte außerdem eine Unterteilung der Studi-enkohorte anhand des zusätzlichen kortikalen Infarktausmaßes bzw. der kortikalen Infarktlokalisation, um den Einfluss kortikaler Infarkte auf das Behandlungsergebnis beurteilen zu können. Die wichtigsten Endpunkte der Studie waren das klinische Behandlungsergebnis gemessen anhand der mRS nach 90 Tagen sowie die Ergebnisse der Subgruppenanalyse. 51,4 % der Studienpopulation erzielten nach 90 Tagen ein gutes klinische Be-handlungsergebnis (mRS 0 bis 2), 32,9 % der Patienten erreichten sogar ein exzellentes Ergebnis (mRS 0 bis 1). Insgesamt verstarben innerhalb von 90 Tagen nach dem Schlaganfallereignis 15,7 % aller Patienten und 32,9 % konn-ten nur ein schlechtes Behandlungsergebnis (mRS 3 bis 5) erzielen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die in der routinemäßig angefertigten Bildgebung nachgewiesenen Infarktdemarkationen im Verlauf der langen Bahnen nicht zwingend ein schlechtes Behandlungsergebnis bedingen. Bei Patienten mit ausge-dehnter Beteiligung des Kortex und Infarkten in definierten eloquenten Arealen waren die klinischen Behandlungsergebnisse allerdings schlechter als in der Vergleichsgruppe mit isolierten Läsionen der langen Bahnen. Um künftig ein besseres Verständnis darüber zu erlangen, welche Patienten mit bestimmter Infarktlokalisation von einer mechanischen Thrombektomie langfristig profitieren können, sind weitere prospektive Studien mit exakt definierten Vergleichsgruppen und höherwertiger MRT-basierter Bildgebung erforderlich.
Unexplainable Explainable AI
Authors: Kim Hyeongjoo
Published: March 2024

Ovaj rad kritički istražuje projekt objašnjive umjetne inteligencije (XAI). Analiziram riječ »objasniti« u XAI-ju i teoriji objašnjenja i identificiram neslaganje između značenja za »objašnjenje« za koje se tvrdi da je potrebno i onoga što je stvarno predočeno. Nakon sažetka povijesti umjetne inteligencije vezane uz objašnjivost, tvrdim da je američka filozofija 1900-ih djelovala u pozadini navedene povijesti. Zatim izdvajam značenje objašnjenja s obzirom na XAI, da bih razjasnio odnos među umjetnom inteligencijom, logikom i teorijom objašnjenja. Čineći to, nastojim otkriti DARPA-ino prikriveno definicijsko povlačenje u smislu njegovog sadržaja i formalne pogreške sophisma figurae dictionis, polazeći od Kantova paralogizma. Zaključujem da ova namjerna pogreška postoji prije projekta XAI-a i da mu je u podlozi preuzetna uporaba uma koju Kant kritizira.
Emotional Behavioural Styles in Violent and Non-violent Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Shagufta Sonia
Published: March 2024

Previous studies have found emotional behavioural problems among school children in Pakistan and their impact on academic achievement (Javed et al., 1992; Samad et al., 2005; Soomro & Clarbour 2012; Syed et al., 2007; Syed & Hussein, 2009). The main purpose of the study was to extend the investigation to the juvenile offenders to assess the emotional behavioural problems among violent and non-violent juvenile offenders located in the different prisons of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. T-test and Binary Logistic Regression were used to analyse the data. T-test revealed that there were significant differences among violent and non-violent juvenile offenders on three emotional style factors: malevolent aggression, social self-esteem, and social anxiety. Binary Logistic Regression analysis indicated that violent juvenile offenders exhibited higher levels of malevolent aggression and low levels of social self-esteem and social anxiety than non-violent juvenile offenders. These results may provide empirical evidences for distinguishing between the violent and non-violent juvenile offenders on the basis of emotional behavioural problems and suggest intensive multimodal Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and anger management program to modify the behaviour of violent juvenile offenders.
Comparación de las respuestas de ansiedad, depresión y estrés en dos grupos de estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Gómez Ramos Jhoana Lorena , Rodríguez Sepúlveda Gina Estefan , Villa Orozco María Clara
Published: March 2024

Durante el transcurso de la pandemia por el síndrome respiratorio agudo severo (SARS-Cov-2), que se presentó desde el año 2020, se evidenció la importancia, así como también los desafíos que tienen los profesionales en salud mental, debido a los cambios suscitados para salvaguardar la población mundial. El aumento de ansiedad, depresión y estrés, provocaron diferentes reacciones, e interrogantes. El presente estudio adopta el método empírico-analítico, de tipo descriptivo comparativo, con enfoque cuantitativo de corte transversal. El objetivo que se ha trazado es comparar las respuestas de ansiedad, depresión y estrés en dos grupos de estudiantes universitarios, en donde algunos de ellos adquirieron el virus del COVID-19. Se buscó categorizar dichas respuestas y, posteriormente, identificar las similitudes y diferencias entre quienes portaron el virus  y quienes no. La muestra estuvo conformada por 459 estudiantes, hombres y mujeres, que reportaron formación universitaria en curso o finalizada en Colombia. Los  datos se obtuvieron  a partir de la aplicación de dos instrumentos, por un lado, la caracterización sociodemográfica diseñada para fines específicos de la investigación y, por otro, la Escala de Depresión, Ansiedad y Estrés (DASS-21). Los resultados fueron analizados mediante el programa IBM SPSS Statistics 28.0, encontrando que las muestras se distribuyeron normalmente y que las personas que portaron el COVID-19 no presentaron de manera representativa puntajes mayores de depresión, ansiedad y estrés frente a las personas que no tuvieron contagio.
Dos medidas de asimetría basadas en la moda: cálculo y normas interpretativas
Authors: Moral de la Rubia José
Published: March 2024

Este estudio metodológico de simulación presenta de forma ejemplificada dos medidas de asimetría. Aunque pueden ser útiles cuando la distribución es unimodal, no se reportan en la investigación psicológica. Una es la distancia estandarizada de la media a la moda de Pearson. La otra es la medida robusta de asimetría de Bickel. Se muestra cómo calcular la estimación puntual y de intervalo con el programa R. Además, se calculan intervalos de confianza al 90 %, 95 % y 99 % con 10 000 extracciones con reemplazamiento de muestras-población con distribución normal y diferentes tamaños para disponer de directrices interpretativas de simetría. Se concluye que la regla ∓0.1 no aplica, la moda de Grenander proporciona los intervalos de confianza más eficientes, pero la asimetría de Bickel es la opción con variables ordinales.
Relaciones entre Bienestar Psicológico y Resiliencia en personal de enfermería
Authors: Quiceno Japcy Margarita , Giraldo Montoya Laura Susana , Vinaccia Alpi Stefano
Published: March 2024

El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar las relaciones entre el Bienestar Psicológico y la Resiliencia en 54 empleados de enfermería de un Hospital de la ciudad de Medellín. El diseño del estudio fue descriptivo correlacional de corte transversal. Instrumentos: se empleó la Escala de Resiliencia de Connor-Davidson (CD-RISC 10) y la Escala de Bienestar Psicológico de Ryff. Resultados: se encontró, por un lado, altos niveles de Resiliencia y Bienestar Psicológico en la muestra de estudio y, por otro lado, la Resiliencia tuvo correlaciones positivas con todos los dominios de la escala de Bienestar Psicológico de Ryff.  En especial, los dominios de Propósito en la vida y Autonomía tienen un peso significativo sobre la resiliencia. Conclusiones: una resiliencia fortalecida mejora la percepción de bienestar psicológico en el personal de enfermería y una mejor percepción de bienestar psicológico potencia la resiliencia. El tener un propósito claro en la vida y mantener la propia individualidad en diferentes contextos a pesar de las presiones son marcadores positivos para promover la resiliencia en Enfermería y Profesiones Sanitarias.
Social marketing efficacy in driving attitudinal changes of female students: Escapade of campus prostitution in Nigerian universities
Authors: O. Okolo Victor , Ifeyinwa Ohanagorom Millicent , Ogbolu Gbemisola , Oranusi Ifeanyichukwu , Eze Obeta Charles
Published: March 2024

Campus prostitution, quite different from traditional prostitution, is commonly known as “hook-up” and it is highly frowned upon as a major social vice in Nigeria. This study examined the potentials of Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp in influencing the attitudinal change of female students toward campus prostitution in Nigerian universities. The population comprises female students in select universities in Southeastern Nigeria. However, Cochran’s formula was used to determine the sample size. Snowball sampling was used in selecting every identified hook-up girl who subsequently contacted a co-prostitute via referral after being offered monetary incentive. A pilot survey was conducted, and the study obtained Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.890. Furthermore, 384 structured questionnaires were distributed, and 325 were adequately returned. Hence, simple linear regression was used to analyze the data and the findings revealed that Facebook messages significantly and positively influence the attitudinal change of female students toward campus prostitution (r = 0.981; t = 157.402; F = 24775.501; p < 0.05). Similarly, Twitter messages significantly and positively influence the attitudinal change of female students toward campus prostitution (r = 0.977; t = 144.375; F = 20844.055; p < 0.05). Lastly, WhatsApp messages significantly and positively influence the attitudinal change of female students toward campus prostitution (r = 0.984; t = 174.458; F = 30435.505; p < 0.05). Thus, these tools are potentially effective and should be adopted by the university authorities to engender high moral standards.
Identifying the system of value factors of green consumer choice
Authors: Potrashkova Liudmyla , Zaruba Viktor , Raiko Diana , Yevsyeyev Oleksiy
Published: March 2024

To justify the production of green products, it is necessary to anticipate the choice of consumers toward products with different environmental friendliness. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the factors that determine this choice, particularly value factors. The study is based on the idea that a consumer is stimulated to eco-consumption by a set of values, not excluding individualist values; and the influence of values is mediated by motives. The purpose of the study is to develop the theoretical foundations of constructing a three-level system of value factors of green consumption on the example of office paper consumption. As a result, the study formed a system of factors containing preferences, motives, and values of office paper consumers. According to the proposed approach, for each respondent, quantitative characteristics of the elements of the system of factors were determined through a survey, which made it possible to identify correlation relationships between the elements. A pilot study was used to test the proposed approach to constructing a value factors system. The results of the pilot survey showed a positive connection between eco-friendliness of consumer preferences – through motives – with such values as “Nature,” “Self-development,” “Country success,” and “Social power.” This finding provides additional justification for the assumption that individuals are driven to green consumption not only by socially oriented values but also by individualistic values. Identifying the value factors of green consumption will allow predicting consumer behavior and influencing it through targeted marketing offers.
Exploring Strategic Approaches for CvFAP Photodecarboxylation through Violet Light Irradiation
Authors: Brêda Gabriela , França Alexandre , de Oliveira Kleber , Almeida Rodrigo , de Souza Rodrigo
Published: March 2024

In this study, we describe a light-driven photocatalytic decarboxylation of palmitic acid and related fatty acids using Chlorella variabilis fatty acid photodecarboxylase (CvFAP). By utilizing violet light emitting diode (LED) light (50 W; 397 nm), we achieved a remarkable conversion efficiency of 99% within just 4 min, surpassing the previous 79% conversion achieved in 60 min using blue LED light (300 W; 439 nm). Importantly, the use of 50 W violet LED light also resulted in a lower enzyme photoinactivation rate when compared to 300 W blue LED. Comparing the whole-cell biocatalyst with the enzymatic extract, we found that the former demonstrated superior catalytic performance and reduced susceptibility to photoinactivation. Furthermore, whole-cell biocatalyst reuse was demonstrated after five sequential batches. Employing this approach, we successfully synthesized 26 mmol L-1 h-1 of pentadecane, showcasing a promising strategy to improve productivity. These findings represent a significant advancement in CvFAP photodecarboxylation processes compared to the literature, utilizing an alternative light source, with potential implications to the biofuel sector
How Do Halal Component and Marketing Drive Muslim Consumers?
Authors: Sari Mia , Rusydiana Aam Slamet , Indra Indra , Avedta Sherrindra
Published: March 2024

This research addresses a specific issue within halal marketing, emphasizing its novelty. Despite widespread recognition in marketing literature of the roles played by various halal components and strategies in influencing consumer purchase intentions, there is a distinct research gap in the lack of studies focusing on specific categories. This study aims to fill that gap by examining the relationship between halal awareness, certification, and other marketing elements in shaping the halal purchase intentions of Mixue consumers in Indonesia. Structural equation model analysis of data from 156 Mixue consumers revealed positive correlations between halal awareness, certification, and brand with purchase intentions, while food quality and promotion showed negative and non-significant relationships. Theoretically, the research strives to advance a conceptual model of halal purchase intentions by integrating halal components with marketing elements, contributing to marketing literature with a specific focus on Mixue and its consumers in Indonesia. The practical implications involve a deeper understanding of factors influencing halal product purchase intentions, aiding marketing decision-making and business strategies in this rapidly growing market.
Influência do tempo e temperatura de recozimento sobre a tenacidade ao impacto de um aço carbono
Authors: da Silva Pereira Matheus Odilon , Nogueira Fraga Francisco Edson
Published: March 2024

Este trabalho buscou relacionar as alterações de tenacidade ao impacto sofridas por uma barra chata encruada de aço ABNT SAE 1020 com os tempos e temperaturas de um tratamento térmico de recozimento pleno, responsável por modificar a microestrutura do aço. Os tratamentos foram realizados em duas temperaturas, 890°C e 970°C com tempos de uma, duas e três horas. Posteriormente, as amostras foram cortadas e levadas para a fresadora para confeccionar 35 corpos de prova tipo A, para o ensaio de Charpy. Foi realizado o ensaio com pêndulo de 300 J com corpos de prova em apoio simples. Em seguida, foi separado um corpo de cada condição para preparação metalográfica. Foi realizado o preparo metalográfico nas amostras para serem levadas ao microscópio óptico. Observando o crescimento do grão e os contornos de grão. Os resultados do ensaio Charpy, como o formato da fratura, mostraram um leve aumento de tenacidade, mas à medida que o grão ficou muito grande ocorreu perda de tenacidade ao impacto.
Proposta de implantação de sistema de termoacumulação de água gelada em um shopping center
Authors: da Silva Gomes Matheus Vitor , de Castro Silva José
Published: March 2024

O uso da energia elétrica na climatização está cada vez maior e em um cenário de alto custo e consumo de energia elétrica, shopping centers chegam a ter mais de 50% do custo de sua conta de energia só para o sistema de climatização. Entretanto, a implementação da termoacumulação permite a transferência de horário de produção do horário de ponta, com tarifas mais altas, para um horário fora de ponta e, consequentemente, resulta em uma economia significativa na conta de energia. Nesse contexto, esse trabalho propôs a implantação de sistema de termoacumulação usando água gelada para um shopping center localizado na região nordeste do país. Para tanto, foi realizado um levantamento dos equipamentos do shopping e, com base na carga térmica de resfriamento, foi dimensionado o tanque, analisou-se também o sistema com e sem termoacumulação. Observou-se uma economia de 19,34% no custo relacionado ao consumo de energia elétrica.
Estudo de antena patch retangular para aplicação em redes sem fio de IoT com tecnologias SIW e Slot
Authors: Bezerra da Silva José Rosenildo , D. de Andrade Humberto
Published: March 2024

Com a evolução dos padrões de sistemas de comunicações sem fio e o advento da Internet das Coisas (IoT) surgiu a massificação dos dispositivos conectados às redes e volumes de dados cada vez maiores, tornando imprescindível o desenvolvimento de componentes capazes de atender às exigências que esse progresso requer. As antenas de microfita são componentes que exercem função essencial nesses sistemas, por serem dispositivos planares, de tamanho reduzido, com baixo custo de produção, fácil integração aos gabinetes dos equipamentos e desempenho adequado. Objetivando aperfeiçoar o desempenho das antenas presentes nos transceptores e equipamentos de usuários, reduzindo perdas na transformação das ondas eletromagnéticas guiadas nas linhas de transmissão em ondas eletromagnéticas irradiadas no espaço livre, esse trabalho propõe uma antena de microfita baseada em um patch retangular com a inserção apropriada do elemento Slot e da tecnologia SIW na estrutura do ressonador para operação em banda larga na faixa de frequência ISM 2,45 GHZ. Com o auxílio dos softwares Scilab 6.1 e ANSYS HFSS® 2019 a antena foi matematicamente modelada e simulada, ajustando-se seus parâmetros para valores de interesse. Posteriormente alguns protótipos iniciais foram produzidos e testados utilizando o Analisador Vetorial de Redes (VNA) para validação dos resultados prévios. Diante das comparações entre os resultados teóricos simulados e os experimentos, é possível afirmar que a junção do elemento Slot à tecnologia SIW contribui para a mitigação da densidade superficial de corrente s e dos efeitos negativos dos campos próximos, melhorando o casamento de impedância e reduzindo as perdas por reflexão.
Especificação de um sistema de ar condicionado: cálculo de cargas térmicas e seleção de equipamentos
Authors: Costa Pereira Matheus , Judice Gustavo Henrique , Papandrea Pedro José
Published: March 2024

Avaliação analítica de um sistema de ar-condicionado, com estudo de caso baseado em um evento localizado em Pouso Alegre/MG. Através da definição e do estudo arquitetônico do espaço, realizado por meio de um croqui do ambiente, foi possível elaborar um memorial de cálculos com o propósito de avaliar uma série de dados. Essa análise precisa permitiu a escolha dos melhores equipamentos, garantindo uma refrigeração ideal, além de proporcionar uma boa limpeza e um ambiente com cheiro agradável, que seja totalmente saudável e adequado. Vale ressaltar que o diagnóstico e o estudo foram desenvolvidos com a assistência de profissionais especializados no ramo, que mesclaram seu conhecimento empírico na análise de viabilidade.
Acesso à geração distribuída solar FV no setor residencial de interesse social
Authors: Constantino de Castro Victor , Oliveira Martins Varella Fabiana Karla
Published: March 2024

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a viabilidade de introdução ao acesso à geração distribuída solar FV no setor residencial de interesse social, através de um estudo de caso realizado no conjunto habitacional localizado na cidade de Serra do Mel, no Estado do Rio Grande do Norte. Para fundamentação, a análise constituiu-se de pesquisas sobre o cenário do déficit habitacional do Brasil e das políticas públicas tomadas para solucioná-lo, como, por exemplo, o Programa Minha Casa Minha Vida. A metodologia aplicada, seguiu inicialmente através da realização de entrevistas com os moradores e proprietários de habitações no conjunto da cidade de Serra do Mel/RN, bem como os responsáveis pelo programa no município com o intuito de identificar o perfil de consumo de energia elétrica das famílias, os equipamentos que melhor atendem essa demanda, e a viabilidade técnica e econômica dos cenários propostos. Os resultados mostraram que a implementação é viável e inicialmente financeiramente aplicável, uma vez que a cidade está localizada em uma região abundante em irradiação solar, não sendo necessário realizar alterações na estrutura das residências.
Simulação computacional de um processo de soldagem por pontos em chapas de alumínio
Authors: Venâncio da Silva Jeremy Michael , Nogueira Fraga Francisco Edson
Published: March 2024

O processo de soldagem por pontos é um dos tipos de soldagem por resistência elétrica, cujo princípio básico de funcionamento é o efeito Joule, no qual a resistência à passagem de corrente elétrica gera calor suficiente para unir as chapas. A soldagem por resistência é o processo mais utilizado na união de chapas de alumínio na indústria automobilística especialmente em soldagens de carrocerias. Este trabalho tem como objetivo simular o processo de soldagem a resistência por pontos através do método dos elementos finitos. O artigo apresenta incialmente uma explanação sobre os conceitos principais que influenciam nesse processo de soldagem. Para a análise da simulação computacional, foi utilizado o software ANSYS® Workbench 23.2, na versão estudantil, juntamente com a extensão Heat Flux no qual o modelo matemático foi solucionado pela ferramenta chamada Transient Thermal. Foram consideradas perdas térmicas por condução, convecção e radiação. As geometrias utilizadas nas simulações são especificadas por literaturas e por norma. O processo de simulação foi validado através de comparação com os resultados de um trabalho experimental na área, utilizando os mesmos parâmetros de corrente e tempo. Ao final do trabalho verificou-se que a simulação se mostrou muito eficaz e se assemelhou muito com os resultados experimentais.
CCN3/NOV Serum Levels in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Patients in Comparison with the Healthy Group and their Correlation with TNF-α and IL-6
Authors: Afrisham Reza , Alasvand Ghazal , Jadidi Yasaman , Farrokhi Vida , Fadaei Reza , Alizadeh Shaban , Moradi Nariman
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Adipokine irregularity leads to inflammation, endothelial
dysfunction, insulin resistance (IR), and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).
Previous studies linked NOV/CCN3 to obesity, IR, and inflammation, but no research
has explored the connection between CCN3 serum levels and NAFLD.

Methods:

This case-control study assessed CCN3, IL-6, adiponectin, and TNF-α
serum levels in 80 NAFLD patients and 80 controls using ELISA kits. Biochemical
parameters were measured with commercial kits and an auto analyzer.

Results:

NAFLD patients exhibited significantly higher CCN3 (2399.85 ± 744.53 vs.
1712.84 ± 478.19 ng/ml), TNF-α, and IL-6 levels, and lower adiponectin levels
compared to controls (P<0.0001). In the NAFLD group, CCN3 showed positive
correlations with FBG, insulin, HOMA-IR, and TNF-α. Binary logistic regression
analysis revealed increased NAFLD risk in the adjusted model (OR [95% CI] = 1.220
[1.315 –1.131]). A CCN3 cut-off value of 1898.0050 pg/mL differentiated NAFLD
patients from controls with 78.8% sensitivity and 73.2% specificity.

Conclusion:

It was found that elevated CCN3 serum levels directly correlate with NAFLD incidence
and inflammation markers (IL-6 and TNF-α). CCN3 could serve as a potential
biomarker for NAFLD, but further research is needed to validate this finding and
assess its clinical utility.
An Enzyme-responsive Porphyrin Metal-organic Framework Nanosystem for Targeted and Enhanced Synergistic Cancer Photo-chemo Therapy
Authors: Yi Mengqi , Lin Yangxin , Li Yuyang , Xiong Bei , Huang Yunhan , Guo Wei , Lu Bo
Published: March 2024

Background:

The clinical efficiency of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in combination
with chemotherapy has proven to be a promising strategy for tumor treatment, yet is restricted by
the high glutathione (GSH) concentration at the tumor site and nonspecific drug targeting.

Objective:

The goal of the current research was to create a biocompatible GSH-depleting and tumor-
targeting nanoparticle (denoted as DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA) for the combined photodynamic
and chemo photo-chemo) therapy.

Methods:

The nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A
UV-vis spectrophotometer was used to measure the drug loading efficiency (DE) and encapsulation
efficiency (EE). The GSH-depleting ability was measured using Ellman's test. Confocal laser
scan microscopy (CLSM) was used to assess the cellular uptake. MTT was adopted to evaluate
the cytotoxicity of DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA against 4T1 cells.

Results:

The altered PCN-224 showed excellent monodispersing with a dimension of approximately
193 nm ± 2 nm in length and 79 nm ± 3 nm in width. The larger and spindle grid-like structure
of PCN-224 obtains better dual-drug loading ability (DOX: 20.58% ± 2.60%, CA: 21.81% ±
1.98%) compared with other spherical PCN-224 nanoparticles. The ultimate cumulative drug release
rates with hyaluronidase (HAase) were 74% ± 1% (DOX) and 45% ± 2% (CA) after 72 h.
DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA showed GSH-consuming capability, which could improve the PDT effect.
The drug-loaded nanoparticles could accurately target 4T1 cells through biological evaluations.
Moreover, the released DOX and CA display cooperative effects on 4T1 cells in vitro.
DOX/CA@PCN-224@HA nanoparticles showed inhibition against 4T1 cells with an IC50 value of
2.71 μg mL-1.

Conclusion:

This nanosystem displays great potential for tumor-targeted enhanced (photo-chemo)
therapy.
Handwriting Markers for the Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chernov Yury
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Alzheimer's disease has an impact on handwriting (AD). Numerous researchers
reported that fact. Therefore, examining handwriting characteristics could be a useful
way to screen for AD. The aim of the article is to present the reliability and effectiveness of the
AD-HS tool.

Method:

Most of the existing studies examine either linguistic manifestations of writing or certain
motor functions. However, handwriting is a complex of cognitive and motor activities. Since
the influence of AD on handwriting is individual, it is important to analyze the complete set of
handwriting features. The AD-HS instrument is based on this principle. Validation of the AD-HS
instrument for revealing cognitive impairment in AD-diagnosed persons in comparison to the control
group. The study is based on the evaluation of free handwritten texts. AD-HS includes 40
handwriting and 2 linguistic features of handwritten texts. It is based on the standard protocol for
handwriting analysis. The cumulative evaluation of all features builds a quantitative AD-Indicator
(ADI) as a marker of possible AD conditions. The analyzed experiment includes 53 AD-diagnosed
persons and a control group of 192 handwriting specimens from the existing database.

Result:

AD-HS shows a distinct difference in evaluated ADI for the participants (the mean value
equals 0.49) and the control group (the mean value equals 0.28).

Conclusion:

The handwriting marker of AD could be an effective supplement instrument for earlier
screening. It is also useful when traditional biomarkers and neurological tests could not be applied.
AD-HS can accompany therapy as an indication of its effect on a person.
Unlocking the Therapeutic Potentiality of Natural Products in Cancer Therapy: A Recent Update and Current Prospects
Authors: Khurshid Asma , Hussain Rabbia , Farooq Rimsha
Published: March 2024

:

Cancer is one of the main causes of mortality that affects a large propotion of population
worldwide each year. Traditional and synthetic medications are less successful in cancer treatment.
The deleterious effects of synthetic compounds divert our attention toward the utilization of naturally
derived compounds in current clinical research. The impact of biodiversity on population development
and livelihood represents a wider area of interest that still heavily relies on natural medicines
against the cure of various ailments. Since ancient times, people have been using natural plants because
of their accessibility and economical affordability as a safe therapeutic alternative to traditional
synthetic drugs. Currently, plants are used because of their remarkable properties in the form of staple
drugs. These plants gain huge attention as a safe treatment option with anti-tumor, chemo-protective
and anti-proliferative properties than conventional harmful therapeutics. The secondary metabolites
extracted from medicinal plants lead to the production of innovative therapeutic strategies against
cancer and other diseases. Targeted delivery of pharmaceuticals agents, through chemical and conventional
methods is a significant challenge. The discovery of nano-vectors provides a solution to this
issue with the innovation of plant-based nanoparticles have been manufactured using an ecologically
sound method. Based on the highlights provided, the current review provides updated knowledge on
diverse aspects of medicinal plants including challenges, significance and their role as a potential
therapeutic agent against the treatment of various diseases, especially cancers. This subsequent review
entails and clarifies the benefits of phytochemicals extracted from Asian medicinal plants due to
their imperative values in cancer treatment and other pharmacological targets. The recent discoveries
and findings linked to the understanding of medicinal drugs with significance on wide range of phytochemical
constituents or secondary metabolites are a current attempt to update our knowledge towards
the progress of natural therapeutics novel strategies.
Application of Antioxidants in Curing Respiratory and Pulmonary
Disorders
Authors: Bhardwaj Ittishree , Gupta Reena
Published: March 2024

Since a couple of decades, respiratory ailments have emerged as a significant public
health issue. Numerous primitive civilizations acknowledged the need to relieve the inflamed airways and nasal passages oxidants are a persistent danger to the lungs since they can be produced
either intracellularly by metabolic processes (such as mitochondrial electron transfer during respiration or during phagocyte activation) or from another source such as tobacco smoking or air pollutants. It is likely to be advantageous to target oxidative stress with antioxidants or increase endogenous antioxidant levels in the treatment of COPD, asthma, and COVID-19. In trials on both human beings and animals, the administration of small antioxidants via the intratracheal, oral, and
vascular routes exhibited only minimal therapeutic potential against short- and long-term oxidative stress. Lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids all respond to oxygen in quick and practical ways.
For the ROS (reactive oxygen species) system to run properly, it requires adequate oxidation-reducing components, like vitamins and antioxidants intake. Numerous nutrients, including vitamins
such as vitamin A, vitamin B etc., minerals (magnesium, zinc, and iron), flavonoids, and fatty
acids, have prominent functions in reducing the likelihood of viral diseases and chronic lung disorders. In this review, the applications of antioxidants in the prevention of respiratory diseases are
discussed along with some reported nutraceuticals being used in respiratory disease and patents.
The applications of antioxidants in preventing and managing respiratory diseases are discussed in
this review, shedding light on the importance of ongoing research in this field. Nutraceuticals,
which combine the benefits of nutrition and pharmaceuticals, are also explored as potential solutions for respiratory health.
Unusual Breast Metastasis from Atypical Lung Carcinoid on 68Ga-DOTATATE
PET/CT
Authors: Okudan Berna , Seven Bedri , Yıldırım Aslıhan , Albayrak Aynur
Published: March 2024

Background:

Atypical carcinoid (AC) is one of the rarest lung neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) that rarely metastasize to the breast, and only a few cases have
been reported in the literature. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with somatostatin analogs (SSAs) labeled with
Gallium-68 (68Ga) now represents the gold standard for diagnosis and management of NETs. A case of an unusual metastasis to the breast from an
AC detected by 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT was reported.

Case Presentation:

A 73-year-old woman was presented with a right breast lesion found on mammography screening, which revealed a metastatic neuroendocrine
tumor by histopathological analysis with a tru-cut biopsy. Subsequently, 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT imaging performed for the initial evaluation
showed increased radiotracer uptake in the lesion in the right breast as well as the nodular lesion in the middle lobe of the right lung, which was
histologically confirmed to be AC.

Conclusion:

Metastasis of uncommon AC of the lung to the breast is extremely rare. However, it is essential to properly differentiate metastatic tumors from
primary disease due to differences in clinical management and prognosis, and 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT is a unique diagnostic tool with the
advantage of whole-body imaging.
Chemical Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and Cheminformatics Analysis of a Group of Chlorinated Diaryl Sulfonamides: Promising Inhibitors of
Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein
Authors: Abu Khalaf Reema , Lafi Ala’a , Hajjo Rima , Al-Sha'er Mahmoud A.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Hyperlipidemia is characterized by an abnormally elevated serum cholesterol,
triglycerides, or both. The relationship between an elevated level of LDL and cardiovascular
diseases is well-established. Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is an enzyme
that moves cholesterol esters and triglycerides between LDL, VLDL, and HDL. CETP inhibition
leads to a reduction in cardiovascular disease by raising HDL and minimizing LDL.

Objective:

This study synthesized ten meta-chlorinated benzene sulfonamides 6a-6j and explored
their structure-activity relationship.

Methods:

The synthesized molecules were characterized using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR, and
HR-MS. Moreover, cheminformatics analyses included pharmacophore mapping, LibDock
studies, and cheminformatics characterization using 2-dimensional (2D) molecular descriptors
and principal component analysis.

Results:

Based on in vitro functional CETP assays, compounds 6e, 6i, and 6j demonstrated the
strongest inhibitory activities against CETP, reaching 100% inhibition. The inhibitory activity
of compounds 6a-6d and 6f-6h ranged from 47.5% to 96.5% at 10 μM concentration. Pharmacophore
mapping results suggested CETP inhibitory action, while the docking scores and calculated
binding energies predicted favoring binding at the CETP active site. Best-scoring docking
poses predicted critical hydrophobic features corresponding to key interactions with His232 and
Cys13. Cheminformatics analysis using 2D molecular descriptors indicated that the synthesized
compounds span various physicochemical properties and drug-likeness.

Conclusion:

It was found that a chloro moiety at the ortho-position, or a nitro group at the meta
and para-positions, improves the CETP inhibitory activity of synthesized analogs. Computational
studies suggest the formation of stable ligand-protein complexes between compounds 6a-
6j and CETP.

conclusion:

It was found that the presence of a chloro moiety at the ortho position, or the presence of a nitro group at the meta and para positions, improve the CETP inhibitory activity of synthesized analogs. Computational studies suggest the formation of stable ligand -protein complexes between compounds 6a-6j and CETP.
Citrus Essential Oils as Potential Insecticides Against Thrips flavus
Authors: Pei Tian-hao , Niu Yu-Long , Liu Bin , Yuan Ming , Zhang Ai-Guo , Li Xiao-Feng , Wang Lian-Xia , Xu Meng-Lei , Gao Yu
Published: March 2024

Background:

Essential oils (EOs) are recognized for their potent insecticidal activity and
are widely considered promising agents for pest control.

Methods:

The insecticidal activity of seven commercial citrus EOs against the global phytophagous
pest Thrips flavus was evaluated using bioassays conducted under laboratory conditions. Moreover,
the chemical composition of these EOs was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
(GC-MS).

Results:

Among the 45 identified compounds, the major constituents were d-limonene (23.77%–
95.10%), methyl jasmonate (38.76%), and linalyl acetate (34.55%). Orange flower oil, sweet orange
oil, tangerine peel oil, bergamot oil, lime oil, lemon oil, and grapefruit oil exhibited good insecticidal
activity against T. flavus without demonstrating significant repellent activity. Orange flower oil and
sweet orange oil showed higher insecticidal toxicity, with LC50 values of 0.20 g/L and 0.37 g/L, respectively.
In pot experiments, the higher control efficacy against T. flavus was found after 7 days of
treatment for orange flower oil (91.14±1.27% at 720.00 g a.i.·hm−2 and 100% at 900.00 g a.i.·hm−2),
sweet orange oil (91.14±5.52% at 900.00 g a.i.·hm−2), tangerine peel oil (96.20±2.19% at 720 g
a.i.·hm−2 and 100% at 900.00 g a.i.·hm−2), lemon oil (96.20±2.19% at 900 g a.i.·hm−2), and lime oil
(97.47±2.53% at 900.00 g a.i.·hm−2).

Conclusion:

Taken together, orange flower oil and tangerine peel oil, which were found to contain
d-limonene and methyl jasmonate, demonstrated rapid and more effective insecticidal activity compared
to the other EOs tested, which makes these two EOs promising alternatives to chemical insecticides.
The Neuroprotective Properties of Thymol and Carvacrol: A Review Study
Authors: Asle-Rousta Masoumeh
Published: March 2024

:

Over the past few decades, researchers have become interested in natural compounds and
their potential to prevent and treat diseases. Thymol, carvacrol, and phenolic monoterpenoids are
compounds quickly absorbed into the bloodstream through the gastrointestinal tract. Studies conducted
in vitro and in vivo have shown that both thymol and carvacrol have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,
and antiapoptotic properties. Research indicates these compounds can easily cross the
blood-brain barrier and offer neuroprotective effects. They are both very safe and have no toxicity in
therapeutic doses. This review focuses on the neuroprotective effects of thymol and carvacrol and
analyzes their impact on the central nervous system, including their antioxidant and antiinflammatory
effects. The report also highlights their potential influence on neurodegenerative diseases
like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, emotional disorders, and brain and spinal cord ischemia.
Impact of Abiotic Stresses on In Vitro Production of Secondary Metabolites
Authors: Mansinhos Inês , Gonçalves Sandra , Romano Anabela
Published: March 2024

Climate change conditions affect plant growth, net primary productivity,
photosynthetic capability, and other biochemical functions that are essential for normal
metabolism. The stimulation of biosynthesis of secondary metabolites is an important
strategy developed by plants to cope with adverse environmental conditions. Many of
these metabolites display a wide array of biological and pharmacological properties
(e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, anti-allergic, antiviral, and
antibacterial) and, thus, have valuable applications as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals,
cosmetics, fragrances, and food additives. The aim of this review is to present an
overview of the impact of abiotic stress factors in the biosynthesis of secondary
metabolites by in vitro cultures. Our literature survey showed that plant tissue culture
has been an effective tool to understand plant response to abiotic stresses, such as
drought, salinity, temperature, nutrient deficiency, or exposure to ultraviolet radiation,
which is of particular interest in the actual scenario of climate change conditions.
Furthermore, this technique appears as an environmentally friendly alternative for the
production of high-value secondary metabolites for many applications. 
Role of Plant Growth Regulators for Augmenting Secondary Metabolites Production in Medicinal Plants
Authors: Kumar Chauhan Harsh , Kumar Bisht Anil , Dutt Bhatt Indra
Published: March 2024

Plants are an important source of natural products for health care throughout
the globe. Recent trends show an abrupt increase in the demand for medicinal plants
due to their cost-efficiency, safety, and potency. The medicinal properties of the plants
are attributable to the presence of secondary metabolites, which accumulate as the
natural defense against herbivory and other interspecies defenses. Along with their
medicinal uses, secondary metabolites are also used in flavorings, agrochemicals,
fragrances, bio-pesticides, and food additives. The demand for secondary metabolites is
mainly expedited through the collection of medicinal plants from the wild. This has
provided an impetus for overharvesting medicinal plants from the wild, and many of
them are threatened. The accumulation of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants is
limited, and therefore diverse strategies for improving the production of secondary
metabolites are a priority. Biotechnological applications, especially plant tissue culture
techniques, offer a viable alternative for obtaining secondary metabolites. Along with
the optimization of growth media and culture conditions, the role of plant growth
regulators is vital in enhancing biomass and secondary metabolite accumulation in the
culture medium. The present chapter demonstrates the types and uses of plant growth
regulators with a focus on the application of plant growth regulators for the production
of secondary metabolites from medicinal plants.