bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advertising, Gender, and Consumer Culture in Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury Iqbal Ahmed
Published: October 2023

Advertising is one of the media that contributes to cultural diffusion. This paper analyzes whether television advertising can diffuse new cultural practices and reinforce existing ones for female consumers in Bangladesh. Grounding on the “cultivation theory” of George Gerbner and the “responsive chord theory” of Tony Schwartz, it analyzes prime-time television advertising of the three most-watched Bangladeshi television channels along with data collected from 60 in-depth interviews. The results reveal that Bangladeshi television advertisements often introduce new cultures for women consumers whereby they can challenge existing stereotypical gendered practices including riding bicycles and going out of home alone. In addition, they reinforce existing gendered cultural practices that inform patriarchal values (particularly in rural areas) in that women's primary goal is to satisfy family members and stay at home, etc. The study also finds that women living in urban areas tend to challenge the existing patriarchal obligations, while rural women follow its principles. The paper enhances our understanding concerning the nexus between advertisements and gendered cultural practices.
Idiosyncratic Fermentation Behaviour of Rhodosporidium toruloides NCIM 3547 in Hemicellulose Hydrolysates derived from Neem Oilseed Cake for Lipid and β-carotene Synthesis
Authors: Bharathi Sundaram Deepika , Jacob Samuel
Published: October 2023

Neem (Azadirachta indica) Oilseed Cake (NOC) is a by-product of neem seed oil production, acts as a potent second-generation lignocellulosic biomass was employed for integrated production of lipid and β-carotene using Rhodosporidium toruloides NCIM 3547. In this study, a hybrid pretreatment was adopted for the breakdown of lignin and hydrolysis of hemicellulosic compounds resulting in 61.61 (%, w/w) of delignification. The resultant hydrolysate contains both C5, C6 sugars and lignin-degradatory compounds out of which glucose (25.51±1.79 g/L), xylose (10.68±0.19 g/L), arabinose (15.52±0.28 g/L), acetic acid (1.66±0.02 g/L), furfural (126.98±1.41 mg/L) and HMF (259.74±2.89 mg/L). Further, it was subjected to fermentation using Rhodosporidium toruloides NCIM 3547 resulting in 42.53±0.85 (%, w/w) of lipid and β-carotene (60.88±0.39 mg/L; 24.35 μg/g DCW) paved the way for industrial applications. The intracellular lipid bodies were observed by Nile red-stained cells using fluorescent microscopy and its fluorescence intensity was measured by flow cytometer. Subsequently, the lipid was transesterified and the fatty acid profile was analysed using GC-MS to justify its potential for food and biodiesel production. This study reveals that NOC can be utilized for industrial product formation through fermentative strategy by formulating the utilization of lignin and hemicellulosic components towards a circular economy.
Multi-Parameters Approach to Assessment of Soil Liquefaction Vulnerability in Wetland Areas of Lagos, Southwestern, Nigeria
Authors: Oladunjoye H. T. , Ishola K. S. , Oyedele K. F. , Adeoti L.
Published: October 2023

The liquefaction potentials of coastal sands in the Lagos metropolis was investigated in this study using geotechnical and geophysical methods. The study aims to reveal the possible causes of failures in engineering structures around the coastal areas. To achieve this objective, the Seismic Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves, Cone Penetrometer Test and Standard Penetration Test were used to carry out measurements of soils parameters at three different sites, which were used to characterize the geological units in the areas. The results of the MASW measurements showed that the shear waves velocity (Vs) ranges from 160 and 470 m/s. The very loose to loose sand delineated had Vs in the range from 170–250 m/s. The tip resistance and sleeve resistance values spanned between 4.0–72.0 kg/cm2 and 6.0–94 kg/cm2 respectively. The depth of the liquefiable sands in the study area varied between 2.5 to 18.0 m. At Ikoyi, owing to the prevalence of loose silty sand, corroborated by borehole data and the LPI index, it is classified as having a high-risk liquefaction and could be responsible for the tremendous damages on structural infrastructures. The sediments mapped at Okun-Ajah and Badore sites were mainly saturated loose sand with high likelihood to liquefaction. Hence, the severity was classified as very-high to high risk. The study concludes that the presence of these sediments and other factors that could induce ground motion making the study sites potentially susceptible to liquefaction. Hence, an urgent attention must be given to early monitoring measures to address the trend.
Overriding reproductive constraints: Hormonal profiles fail to predict intrasexual competition
Authors: Yang Yi-Jun , Guo Wei-Jia , Liu Yi , Guo Dong , Tian Wen-Yong , Zhu Dai-Bo , Li Bao-Guo , Qi Xiao-Guang
Published: October 2023

Intrasexual competition among females has long been overshadowed by the focus on that in males. Apart from the studies on Callitrichidae, mechanisms beyond reproductive suppression are virtually uninvestigated. However, that females compete for breeding is likely ubiquitous across polygynous mating primates, where males are likely the limited resource for reproducing and/or offspring raring. As the northernmost distributed Asian colobine, golden snub-nosed monkey retained its ancestral one-male, multi-female unit, but evolved a multi-level society through social aggregation. As a result, the operational sex ratio (the ratio of sexually receptive males to sexually receptive females, hereafter OSR) is expected to be near one as numerous bachelor males shadow the breeding band for mating opportunities. Nevertheless, intrasexual competition was intense, at least in the two study units. The females copulated primarily with the residential males. Hormonal evidence indicates that they were receptive for only 70 days every two years, with only 1 to 3 ovulations. Finally, within units, 50% to 100% of their receptive periods overlapped with one another. Surprisingly, not a single case of aggression or reproductive suppression was observed. By the end of the breeding season, all receptive females showed signs of pregnancy, suggesting successful conceptions. Because staying in stable large units confers a competitive edge over resources through dominance, evolution might have provided strategies for avoiding costly mating competition within units. Further behavioral investigation tentatively reveals two such strategies: coordinating solicitation frequency through turn-taking and/or migrating to units where the intensity of intrasexual competition is low. Our future studies will address the nature and fitness consequences of them.
Growth performance, carcass, and meat quality traits in broiler chickens reared on plastic-grid flooring, wood shavings, and zeolite-supplemented wood shavings
Authors: KAYA Mehmet , KARAARSLAN Solmaz , TOPLU Değer ORAL , FİDAN Evrim DERELİ , TÜRKYILMAZ M. Kenan , NAZLIGÜL Ahmet
Published: October 2023

In the current study, it was investigated the growth performance, carcass, and meat quality traits in broiler chickens reared on plastic-grid flooring, wood shavings, and zeolite-supplemented wood shavings. The study design involved dividing the chicks into 3 experimental groups, with each group having 4 replications. The chicks were reared on wood shavings, plastic-grid floors, and zeolite litter materials. An experiment involving 504 chicks was conducted, with each replicate consisting of 42 male chicks of similar body weight. At the end of the experiment, a total of 120 chickens were slaughtered, with 10 chickens selected from each replicate for this purpose. The effects of different bedding materials on mortality, body weight, and body weight gain were not significant. The feed intake was significantly affected in the 2nd, and 3rd weeks (P=0.001; 0.023); in addition, the feed conversion ratio was significant in the 2nd, 4th, and overall period (P=0.003; P=0.026; P=0.038) by the bedding materials. The breast yield (P=0.001), thigh yield (P=0.028), and wing yield (P=0.023) were significant. The type of bedding material used in broiler production significantly influenced the pH24 (P=0.030), L* (P=0.037), a* (P=0.000), and CL (P=0.028). It was concluded that using a plastic-grid floor could be a good alternative to wood shavings litter in broiler breeding. However, further research is required to evaluate the suitability and potential advantages of these litter materials in broiler breeding, especially from an economic point of view.
Local Volume Concentration, Packing Domains and
Scaling Properties of Chromatin
Authors: Szleifer Igal
Published: October 2023

We propose the Self Returning Excluded Volume (SR-EV) model for the structure
of chromatin based on stochastic rules and physical interactions that is
able to capture the observed behavior across imaging and sequencing based
measures of chromatin organization. The SR-EV model takes the return rules
of the Self Returning Random Walk, incorporates excluded volume interactions,
chain connectivity and expands the length scales range from 10 nm to
over 1 micron. The model is computationally fast and we created thousands
of configurations that we grouped in twelve different ensembles according to
the two main parameters of the model. The analysis of the configurations was
done in a way completely analogous to the experimental treatments used to
determine chromatin volume concentration, contact probability, packing domain
identification and size characterization, and packing scaling behavior.
We find a robust agreement between the theoretical and experimental results.
The overall organization of the model chromatin is corrugated, with dense
packing domains alternating with a very dilute regions in a manner that resembles
the mixing of two disordered bi-continuous phases. The return rules
combined with excluded volume interactions lead to the formation of packing
domains. We observed a transition from a short scale regime to a long scale
regime occurring at genomic separations of ∼ 4 × 104 base pairs or ∼ 100 nm
in distance. The contact probability reflects this transition with a change in
the scaling exponent from larger than -1 to approximately -1. The analysis
of the pair correlation function reveals that chromatin organizes following a
power law scaling with exponent D ∈ {2, 3} in the transition region between
the short and long distance regimes.
The Impact of Iodinated Contrast Media Used in Epidural Steroid Injections on Thyroid Function Tests
Authors: Isik Ridvan , Kokar Serdar , Olgun Yucel , Sencan Savas , Gunduz Osman Hakan
Published: October 2023

Objective
The use of iodinated contrast media (ICM) inevitably increases in conjunction with the growing number of epidural steroid injections (ESI) administrations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between thyroid functions and ICM exposure through ESI procedures.
Design:
Prospective, observational study.
Setting:
A university hospital pain management center.
Methods
This study was conducted between June 2022 and February 2023. Participants between the ages of 18 and 65 who had received an epidural steroid injection at our outpatient pain clinic comprised the study's population. Thyroid function tests (fT3, fT4, and TSH) were measured before and 3 weeks after the procedure.
Results
A total of 124 participants (80 women and 44 men) were analysed. The average amount of contrast media administered was 1.34 ml. A significant increase was observed only in the fT4 value compared to pre-procedure (p = 0.017), and thyroid disorders developed in 19.5% of the participants (subclinical hyperthyroidism = 19, subclinical hypothyroidism = 3, overt hyperthyroidism = 1).
Conclusion
The current analysis provides an overview of the relationship between ICM volume and a higher risk of thyroid disorders and dysfunction.
Assessing the Efficacy of Simulation-Based Education for Paramedics in Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma under Physician Guidance
Authors: Ohira Akiko , Maki Jota , Ageta Kohei , Nakato Hikari , Oba Hikaru , Mitoma Tomohiro , Mishima Sakurako , Tani Kazumasa , Kirino Satoe , Eto Eriko , Nakao Atsunori , Masuyama Hisashi
Published: October 2023

We investigated the effectiveness of simulation-based education in Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) to increase the number of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) capable of performing ultrasound examinations in vehicles under the guidance of a physician. Twenty-eight paramedics watched a 14-minute video on the features of the ultrasound system, its use, and the scanning method for each part of the body. Each participant performed four FAST examinations using a portable ultrasound device, and the task performance was rated using the Task Specific Checklist (TSC) and Global Rating Scale (GRS). The time required for visualizing each examination site and each FAST was assessed. The primary outcome, time required for each test, significantly decreased with repeated testing (p < 0.001). The secondary outcome, time to complete FAST for each site was significantly shortened for the pericardial cavity, right thoracic cavity, Morrison pouch, and left thoracic cavity. TSC and GRS scores were elevated, and all EMTs could obtain valid images. The combination of a brief video lecture and hands-on training significantly reduced the time required for FAST performance. Moreover, repeated practice enabled the EMTs to efficiently obtain accurate and clinically useful images.
Circulating metabolomic profile links the MIND diet to cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Chen Hui , Shen Jie , Tao Yang , Zhang Yaodan , Gao Mengyan , Ma Yuan , Zheng Yan , Zong Geng , Lin Qing , Tong Lusha , Yuan Changzheng
Published: October 2023

The Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet has been related to lower risk of dementia. However, to which extent circulating metabolite profile of this diet mediates the association was unclear. We identified 70 circulating metabolites significantly associated with the MIND diet score in Whitehall II study, and replicated 44 of these associations in the UK Biobank. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), omega-3 fatty acids, unsaturation degree of fatty acids and high-density lipoprotein particle size showed the strongest positive associations and very-low-density lipoprotein particle size, glycoprotein acetyls and phenylalanine showed the strongest inverse associations. The metabolic signature constructed from the identified metabolites using elastic net regression was moderately correlated with MIND diet score (Pearson’s r = 0.34 in Whitehall II and 0.25 in UK Biobank). The associations of the MIND diet with global and domain-specific cognitive function were partially mediated by the metabolite signature (explainable proportion ranging from 24–36%).
The potential of type 2 cystatin in blood feeding and innate immunity of the tick Haemaphysalis doenitzi (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Zhang Song-Bo , Gao Zhi-Hua , Wang Yi-Kui , Lv Wen-Xia , Dong Ke-Xin , Wang Run-Ying , Guo Fei-Di , Yang Xiaolong
Published: October 2023

Ticks, which are obligate blood-sucking parasites, transmit a wide range of pathogens during their blood-feeding process. Enzymes and macromolecules that inhibit enzymes play a crucial role in tick physiology. In the present study, genes encoding type 2 cystatin were cloned and characterized from Haemaphysalis doenitzi, and their functions in innate immunity and tick blood feeding were further assessed. Four cystatin genes, namely HDcyst-1, HDcyst-2, HDcyst-3, and HDcyst-4, were successfully cloned from the tick. Their open reading frames vary in length, with sizes of 390, 426, 426, and 426 base pairs (bp), respectively. Proteinase inhibition assays indicated that 0.2 µM of cystatin displayed a minimum of 50% inhibitory activity against cathepsin B and S. The qPCR results imply that HDcyst-2 could play a pivotal role in tick hemophagia, whereas HDcyst-1, HDcyst-3, and HDcyst-4 may be integral to the regulation of blood digestion. Our investigation unveiled that adult ticks subjected to LPS injection or exposed to low-temperature stress exhibited elevated expression levels of type 2 cystatin compared to the control group. RNA interference experiments demonstrated that the expression of type 2 cystatins had a significant impact on engorged weight, the number of eggs laid, hatching rate, and mortality of H. doenitzi, along with an extension of blood-feeding duration by 2 days. These discoveries suggest the involvement of type 2 cystatin in tick innate immunity and blood-feeding processes. Consequently, type 2 cystatin emerges as a promising candidate for tick control and the development of novel immunosuppressive drugs in the future.
Configuration of Subsea Mooring System for Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
Authors: Krishnan Amudha , Aravind Gnanaraj Anbu
Published: October 2023

Deep-sea mining trials are subject to strict adherence to the international regulations for monitoring of ocean environmental data. A comparative analysis of data collected before and subsequent to the mining trials enables the assessment of the potential impact of deep-sea mining activities on the marine environment. In the realm of data collection for oceanic environments, the mooring system has been conventionally employed. This system's specifications, including length and design, are intricately governed by predetermined design criteria, with its deployment typically taking a vertical orientation. Specifically, within the context of deep-sea mining, the mooring system is effectively utilized to oversee, record, and collect mass information concerning disturbances in the water column and to the seabed. This pertains to the periods encompassing pre-exploration, exploration, and exploitation activities. The integration of various sensors, such as sediment collectors and Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth (CTD) sensors facilitates the gathering of pertinent data concerning changes in the water column and bottom disturbances. The experimental implementation of the subsurface long and short mooring within the present study is operational at an approximate depth of 5500 meters. Furthermore, the analysis encompassed in this study pertains to the determination of the mooring's ascent and descent rates. The mooring system serves as an essential tool in this endeavour, with its design and deployment intricacies well-adhering to specified criteria. The study's focus on the subsurface long and short mooring system underscores its operational depth and the meticulous configuration achieved through spatial and temporal data alignment.
Using propensity score matching analysis to compare between cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors and physical activity type in Korean adults: Findings from a nationwide population-based survey
Authors: Kim Min-Hyo , Lee Ji-Won , Linton John A , Lee Yaeji , Song Youhyun
Published: October 2023

Purpose
We aimed to assess the effects of different exercise modalities on cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors within a comprehensive, representative sample of the Korean population.
Methods
We categorized 13,971 adult participants into aerobic exercise (AE), resistance exercise (RE), combined aerobic and resistance exercise (TE), and no exercise (NE) groups. Multivariable regressions were conducted to compare the incidence of chronic diseases across the groups before and after propensity score matching (PSM).
Results
The TE and RE groups had significantly lower waist circumference (WC), blood pressure, glucose and insulin-related indices, and white blood cell count (WBC) measures, with TE showing the most significant differences. The TE group had significantly lower triglyceride levels and higher high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels. Post-PSM, the TE group had the lowest risk for hypertension and metabolic syndrome, followed by the RE group, while diabetes risk decreased exclusively in the TE group. RE consistently exhibited benefits, including lower body mass index, WC, blood pressure, glucose and insulin-related indices, and WBC count compared with AE. RE reduced the incidence of metabolic diseases compared with AE.
Conclusion
TE effectively reduces cardiovascular risk in Korean adults. RE provides a more favorable metabolic effect than AE.
Habitat selection by Stone Partridge elucidates the ecological benefits of fire management in an Afro-tropical Sudan Savanna
Authors: Atuo Fidelis , Agaigbe Nguvan M. , Thompson Emmanuel
Published: October 2023

Background
Fire is a key disturbance measure that drives community dynamics and ecosystem function. While natural resource managers have increasingly relied on fire as a management tool to conserve biodiversity in fire-prone systems, key gaps remain in our understanding of how fire frequencies and return intervals drive habitat selection and species persistence in tropical savannas. Here, we evaluated the mechanisms through which fire-created variability mediates habitat selection in a fire-prone Sudan savanna landscape. Using data from adult stone partridges fitted with radio-transmitters and monitored between November 2020 – July 2022, we assessed the role of fire frequency, fire intensity, and vegetation characteristics on space used by Stone Partridge (Ptilachapus petrosus) at two spatial extents.
Results
At a broad spatial extent, partridges appeared to select recently burnt areas up to 2 years post-fire treatment but decreased their selection as the severity of fires increased. Partridges tended to avoid taller woody vegetation that could serve as perches for aerial predators in favor of shrubs (< 1-m tall) with thicket understories that minimized predation risk. At a smaller spatial extent, partridges were inclined to select patches that experienced recent fires but maintained high tussock density coupled with litter cover. The relationship between Stone Partridge selection and grass height was inconclusive but suggested a possible reduction in usable space in patches where herbaceous vegetation exceeded 0.5-m.
Conclusion
Our results suggest that Afro-tropical savanna obligates like partridges are possibly adapted to frequently occurring low-intensity fires that promote diversity of herbaceous plants, remove non-native vegetation, and create pockets of refugia for native species to hide from predators. Consequently, reversing colonial fire suppression policies and adopting planned fire treatment as part of management efforts in the region could be key in improving habitat quality for ground-dwelling birds and other native species.
Long-term continuations rate of ring pessary use for symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Manchana Tarinee
Published: October 2023

Purpose
To evaluate long-term continuation rates, adverse events of ring pessary use at a minimum of 5 years follow-up, and factors associated with discontinuation in symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
Methods
Women with symptomatic POP who were treated with vaginal ring pessary and had successful fittings were included. Adverse events and reasons for discontinuation of pessary use were recorded. Patients who were lost to follow-up were defined as discontinued.
Results
During 12 year-period, 239 of 329 POP patients(72.6%) had successful fittings with ring pessary. The mean age was 67.8 ± 8.9 years(range 27–86) and 70% of patients had advanced stage. The cumulative probability of continued ring pessary use was 84.1%,64.4%,49.3%,and 33.5%, at 1,3,5,and 10 years, respectively. Most common reason for discontinuation was frequent expulsion(21.6%), followed by vaginal erosion(16.5%), no prolapse improvement(12.4%), and inability or inconvenience to do self-care(9.3%). However, 9 patients(9.3%) had improvement of prolapse and were able to discontinue pessary insertion. Age above 70 years, wide genital hiatus, and incapability of self-care are independent factors associated with long-term discontinuation. Adverse events occurred in 23.4% of patients,18.8% of them had vaginal erosion,11.7% vaginal discharge/infection, and 18.4% de novo SUI. However, no statistical significance existed between those who continued and discontinued pessary use due to these adverse events.
Conclusion
Ring pessary is an effective treatment in symptomatic POP, with acceptable long-term continuation rates and minor adverse events. Self-care of pessary is very important aiming to minimize adverse events. Advanced age, wide introitus and incapability of self-care were associated factors for long-term discontinuation.
3D printed anatomical bionic artificial cervical disc replacement for single-level cervical spondylosis: a cohort study
Authors: Xu Zheng-wei , Zhang Xiao-bo , Li Tao , Hao Ding-jun
Published: October 2023

Background: Cervical disc replacement (CDR) is considered to be an effective alternative treatment to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). However, the use of most artificial disc prostheses can lead to complications due to the high morphological and dimensional mismatch with the human neck anatomy.
Objective: By comparing the clinical efficacy of the new 3D printed artificial cervical disc with ACDF in treating cervical spondylosis, to study the clinical value of the artificial disc with the appropriate morphological and dimensional.
Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of 58 patients with single-segment cervical spondylosis who met the inclusion criteria between August 2019 and July 2022 at XXXX Hospital. The patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical method used: 38 cases in the ACDF group and 20 cases in the CDR group. The patients' general information, including operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospital stay, were recorded. The clinical effect was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, and Neck Disability Index (NDI). The radiological effect was evaluated using the range of movement (ROM) by the shell angle. Complications, including dysphagia, heterotopic ossification, and adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), were also recorded.
Results: The average follow-up time for the ACDF and CDR groups was 18.18 ± 2.19 and 17.50 ± 7.18 months, respectively (P =0.682). The surgical time was 134.76 ± 39.35, 144.50 ± 35.69 (P =0.359), and the hospital stay was 6.74 ± 1.63 and 7.00 ± 2.00 days (P =0.593). In terms of clinical efficacy, the two groups showed significant clinical efficacy, and there was no difference in VAS (P =0.046), JOA (P =0.046), and NDI (P =0.046) scores at each time point. However, the blood loss of the two groups was 170.00 ± 110.50ml and 118.42 ± 80.15ml, and the CDR group was significantly higher than the ACDF group (P=0.046). In terms of imaging, the postoperative ROM in the ACDF group was lower than that in the CDR group (P=0.005). In terms of complications, a few patients in both groups experienced swallowing discomfort after surgery and recovered within 3 months. One case of ASD occurred in the ACDF group, and no ectopic ossification was observed in either group.
Conclusion: The new 3D-printed artificial disc for treating single-segment cervical spondylosis has shown proven clinical efficacy, and it maintains better ROM compared to ACDF, although it may have more intraoperative blood loss.
Lens-free reflective topography for super-resolution wafer inspection
Authors: Lee Myungjun , Lee Hojun , Sung Jangwoon , Park Seungbeom , Shin Junho , Kim Hyungjin , Kim Wookrae
Published: October 2023

The demand for high-resolution and large-area imaging systems for non-destructive wafer inspection has grown owing to the increasing complexity and extremely fine nature of semiconductor processes. Several studies have focused on developing high-resolution imaging systems; however, they were limited by the tradeoff between image resolution and field of view. Hence, computational imaging has arisen as an alternative method to conventional optical imaging, aimed at enhancing the aforementioned parameters. This study proposes a method for improving the resolution and field of view of an image in a lens-less reflection-type system. Our method was verified by computationally restoring the final image from diffraction images measured at various illumination positions using a visible light source. We introduced speckle illumination to expand the numerical aperture of the entire system, simultaneously improving image resolution and field of view. The image reconstruction process was accelerated by employing a convolutional neural network. Using the reconstructed phase images, we implemented super-resolution topography and demonstrated its applicability in wafer surface inspection. Furthermore, we demonstrated an ideal diffraction-limited spatial resolution of 1.7 m over a field of view of 1.8 1.8 mm2 for the topographic imaging of targets with various surface roughness. The proposed approach is suitable for applications that simultaneously require high throughput and resolution, such as wafer-wide integrated metrology, owing to its compact design, cost-effectiveness, and mechanical robustness.
Factors associated with thoughts of death and suicidal ideation owing to human relations, health, and financial problems in community-dwelling residents of a rural town in Japan
Authors: Morikawa Kozue , Nomura Kyoko , Onozawa Daisuke , Sasaki Hisanaga , Morikawa Yoshiki
Published: October 2023

Objective
To identify factors associated with thoughts of death and suicidal ideation among rural residents in Japan.
Methods
In 2015, a cross-sectional home visit survey was conducted in a rural town in Akita Prefecture. A total of 1,844 residents aged ≥ 20 years answered a questionnaire about thoughts of death and suicidal ideation in the past month. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to investigate socioenvironmental factors associated with suicidal ideation in models according to accompanying reasons for human relations problems (HRP), health problems (HP), and financial problems (FP).
Results
In total, 218 (men 9.4%, women 13.8%) had thoughts of death and suicidal ideation with accompanying reasons for HRP (5.6%), HP (6.1%), and FP (3.9%). The risk factors were Kessler Psychological Distress Scale scores ≥ 9 in models with HRP, HP, and FP or without no accompanying reasons; being a woman in models of HP and FP or without accompanying reasons; current smoking without accompanying reasons; absence of a person for help in a model of FP; absence of family member for help in a model of HRP or without accompanying reasons; and absence of social network and cohesion in a model of HRP. The mitigating factor were being optimistic in models of HRP, and HP or without accompanying reasons; being aged 70–79 in models of HRP and HP; and being aged ≥ 80 in a model of HRP.
Conclusions
Thoughts about death and suicidal ideation among rural residents in Japan were associated with multifactorial and socio-environmental factors.
Navigating the nuances: comparative analysis and hyperparameter optimisation of neural architectures on contrast-enhanced MRI for liver and liver tumour segmentation
Authors: Quinton Félix , Presles Benoît , Leclerc Sarah , Nodari Guillaume , Lopez Olivier , Chevallier Olivier , Pellegrinelli Julie , Vrigneaud Jean-Marc , Popoff Romain , Meriaudeau Fabrice , Alberini Jean-Louis
Published: October 2023

In medical imaging, accurate segmentation is crucial to improving diagnosis, treatment, or both. However, navigating the multitude of available architectures for automatic segmentation can be overwhelming, making it challengingto determine the appropriate type of architecture and tune the most crucial parameters during dataset optimisation.To address this problem, we examined and refined seven distinct architectures for segmenting the liver, as well as liver tumours, with a restricted training collection of 60 3D contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance images (CE-MRI) from the ATLAS dataset. Included in these architectures are convolutional neural networks (CNNs), transformers, and hybrid CNN/transformer architectures. Bayesian search techniques were used for hyperparameter tuning to hasten convergence to the optimal parameter mixes while also minimising the number of trained models. It was unexpected that hybrid models, which typically exhibit superior performance on larger datasets, would exhibit comparable performance to CNNs. The optimisation of parameters contributed to better segmentations, resulting in an average increase of 1.7% and 5.0% in liver and tumour segmentation Dice coefficients, respectively.In conclusion, the findings of this study indicate that hybrid CNN/transformer architectures may serve as a practical substitute for CNNs even in small datasets. This underscores the significance of hyperparameter optimisation.
A Systematic Solution for Social Media Usage of Students With the Help of Random Sampling Method
Authors: Senthamaraiselvi S. , Sundaram K. Meenakshi
Published: October 2023

Web-based entertainment assumes a gigantic part in human existence. Online entertainment use has developed quickly throughout recent many years. Because of its development, it is exceptionally famous for correspondence among understudies. Web-based entertainment enormously affects understudy accomplishment. This study investigates the subtleties of information assortment on the effect of virtual entertainment on understudy training. Scientists made a poll and gathered an example of data from understudies. This examination study was led among the understudies at the Vivekananda School for Womens and Excel College for Commerce and science at Namakkal. This concentrate momentarily portrays how the review survey was created and the information gathered.
Plant mycorrhizal functional type shapes nitrogen availability in a regenerating forest
Authors: Welker Les , Ward Elisabeth B. , Bradford Mark A. , Ferraro Kristy M.
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims
In closed-canopy, mature forests, tree and shrub mycorrhizal associations are important controls on soil nitrogen availability. Whether these plant-fungal effects are observed in forests at earlier successional stages following disturbances such as harvests or windstorms is largely unexplored. We quantify differences in soil nitrogen availability under an ectomycorrhizal tree (Betula lenta) and an ericoid mycorrhizal shrub (Kalmia latifolia) and explore the potential for known underlying mechanisms, such as the availability of soil carbon, to explain the patterns we observe.
Methods
We measure potential net nitrogen mineralization and nitrification rates, as well as variables associated with carbon availability, for incubated soil samples collected from under ecto- or ericoid mycorrhizal plants within a recently harvested temperate forest.
Results
Net nitrogen mineralization and nitrification rates were lower under the regenerating ericoid mycorrhizal shrub compared to the ectomycorrhizal tree. Yet, soil carbon availabilities were not different under these two plant functional types, suggesting that mechanisms other than carbon accumulation likely create nitrogen limitation under ericoid mycorrhizal plants in early successional forest stands.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that local heterogeneity in the functional group diversity of plant mycorrhizal associations will be important for understanding differences in nitrogen availability in early versus mid- to late-successional forests and, resultingly, forest ecosystem responses to intensifying disturbance regimes.
Authentication of SSR Molecular Markers Associated with Genetic Male Sterility in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Parental Lines
Authors: Patel Himalay R. , Patel D. H.
Published: October 2023

Background Genetic male sterility serves as a highly efficient approach for generating hybrid cotton. In India, successful hybrid cotton development has predominantly relied on the utilization of lines containing the ms5ms6 gene among various identified GMS gene-containing lines. In this current research, the validation of three GMS female lines, along with their fertile counterparts and the original non-GMS parental lines, was conducted using SSR markers with the primers BNL 1227 and NAU 2176.Methods At the Main Cotton Research Station, Athwa Farm, N.A.U, Surat, India, three GMS female genotypes, their corresponding fertile counterparts, and the original parental lines lacking GMS were employed for the validation of molecular markers associated with GMS in cotton. This validation process involved DNA extraction and subsequent PCR amplification.Results Our investigations yielded conclusive evidence regarding the presence of the sterility gene in GMS lines. This demonstrates the genetic purity of the genotypes, and it was observed that the selected primers effectively validated both GMS and their respective original parental groups. Consequently, the primers BNL 1227 and NAU 2176 provide a rapid and dependable method for identifying the genetic male sterility system controlled by the ms5ms6 gene in cotton (G. hirsutum L.). Moreover, they serve as an efficient alternative to the time-consuming and labor-intensive grow-out test (GOT) for cotton.
Transcriptome analysis and identification of the low potassium stress-responsive gene SiSnRK2.6 in foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.)
Authors: Xiaoqian Ma , Ma Xiaoqian , Khan Najeeb Ullah , Dai Shutao , Qin Na , Han Zanping , Guo Bing , Li Junxia
Published: October 2023

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.), which originated in China, has typical drought tolerance, barren tolerance, C4 high light efficiency, strong adaptability, and high nutrient utilization characteristics. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanism of its tolerance to low-potassium stress is largely unclear. In this research, the low potassium tolerant variety “Yugu28” was screened out by low potassium stress treatment, and the transcriptome of “Yugu28” under low potassium was comprehensively analyzed. A total of 4254 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, including 1618 up-regulated and 2636 down-regulated genes, respectively. In addition, there were 302 transcription factor (TF) genes in the DEGs and MYB TFs accounted for the highest proportion, which was 14.9%. After functional analysis of all DEGs, a total of 7 genes directly related to potassium and 50 genes corresponding to hormones were screened. The expression levels of randomly selected 17 DEGs were verified by qRT-PCR and the results coincided well with the RNA-seq analysis, indicating the reliability of our transcriptome data. Moreover, one of the ABA signaling pathway genes, SiSnRK2.6, was identified and selected for further functional verification. Compared with the wild-type, transgenic rice with ecotopic expression of SiSnRK2.6 showed remarkably increased root length and root number, indicating that overexpression of SiSnRK2.6 can enhance the resistance of transgenic plants to low potassium stress.
Perceptions of medical undergraduates toward online anatomy learning during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zang Ziqi , Li Xinyu , Zhao Yang , Shan Tao
Published: October 2023

Background
During the COVID-19 pandemic, almost all offline lectures and academic meetings were canceled, the 2020 spring semester was delayed, and students remained at home. Online education was widely employed in Chinese universities.
Methods
An online questionnaire was distributed to medical undergraduates. The questionnaire consists of 63 questions and involved students’ basic information, tools for online learning and students’ opinions about online learning and face-to-face learning.
Results
Until the end of this survey, none of our respondents were infected by COVID-19. The average score indicating respondents' preference for online courses was lower than face-to-face classes (6.24 vs. 8.12, p < 0.001). A total of 52.7% of respondents thought that online learning could reduce economic costs. Most of respondents (73.8%) agreed that online learning saved commuting time.
Conclusion
Online learning reduces the commuting time and economic costs. In online learning, lectures can be easily recorded and replayed. The most significant shortcomings include inability to refer to physical specimens, difficulty interacting with equipment or network failures, and a poor atmosphere. The COVID-19 pandemic has provided experience and lessons for online learning.
Application of Machine Learning and Resistivity Measurements for HighResolution 3D Geological Modeling in the Yilan Plain, Taiwan, at the SW Tip of the Okinawa Trough
Authors: Chang Ping-Yu , Puntu Jordi Mahardika , Lin Ding-Jiun , Amania Haiyina Hasbia , Chen Wen-Shan , Lin Andrew Tien-shun
Published: October 2023

This study presents a pioneering investigation into the complex Holocene paleomorphologies of the Yilan Plain, located at the southwestern edge of the Okinawa Trough. We employed a novel approach that synergized resistivity measurements with machine learning techniques to unlock valuable insights into the geological history, sedimentary patterns, and seismic activity of this dynamic region. Our methodology involved the creation of a high-resolution Apparent Geological Model (AGM) through the interpolation of inverted resistivity data and the application of supervised machine learning algorithms. Classification criteria, derived from the relationship between resistivity values and sediment types found in nearby boreholes, were developed using the random forest machine-learning method. The resultant 3D resistivity model was transformed into a clay-sand-gravel model, offering a comprehensive depiction of sediment distribution within the Yilan Plain. Notably, our findings revealed distinct sedimentary patterns. Gravel-dominated regions, characterized by resistivity values above 140 Ohm-m, were identified alongside areas dominated by sand and clay sediments. The Carbon-14 dating ages in the sand sediments exhibited remarkable consistency, shedding light on the depositional history of the region. Furthermore, our research unveiled a previously unknown phenomenon of rapid subsidence in the Yilan
Plain. Through meticulous analysis and correction for sea-level changes, we estimated an average subsidence rate of approximately 7.7 mm/year. This subsidence was punctuated by abrupt events around 8000-9000 years BP and 3000-3500 years BP, associated with a sudden 10-meter depth increase. These events suggested a potential link to prehistoric seismic activity, with variable subsidence rates between episodes hinting at recurrent active seismic periods every 4000-5000 years. In conclusion, our multidisciplinary approach has provided unprecedented insights into the Holocene paleo-morphologies of the Yilan Plain. By combining resistivity measurements, machine learning, and geological analysis, we have enriched our understanding of the region's geological history, sedimentary dynamics, and seismic behavior. These findings not only contribute to the knowledge of Yilan's past but also offer vital data for future environmental and geological studies in similarly dynamic regions.
A Case-Inspired Exploration of Renin Mutations in Autosomal Dominant Tubulointerstitial Kidney Disease (ADTKD): Not All Paths Lead to the ER.
Authors: Niedbalska-Tarnowska Joanna , Jakubowska Anna , Majkowski Michał , Pęcherz Michalina , Medyńska Anna , Mroczek Robert , Kiliś-Pstrusińska Katarzyna , Cebrat Małgorzata , Łaszkiewicz Agnieszka
Published: October 2023

Background:
Autosomal Dominant Tubulointerstitial Kidney Disease (ADTKD) results from mutations in various genes, including REN, UMOD, MUC1, and HNF1B. ADTKD-REN is often characterized as a proteinopathy that triggers the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) cascade, potentially sharing similarities with ADTKD-UMOD and ADTKD-MUC1 at the cellular level. Inspired by a patient with a W17R mutation, we aimed to investigate ERS activation caused by this and two other renin variants (W10R and L381P). Additionally, we explored potential molecular commonalities with other TKD forms, specifically ADTKD-HNF1B and MITKD (Mitochondrially Inherited Tubulointerstitial Kidney Disease).
Methods:
We established stable cell lines expressing wild-type renin and its mutated forms: W17R, W10R, and L381P. Using luciferase reporter constructs, RT-qPCR, and confocal imaging, we conducted tests to evaluate ERS activation, TGFβ upregulation, and the cellular localization of various renin variants.
Results:
The L381P line exhibited signs of ERS activation and transcriptional upregulation of MANF (mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor) and CRELD2 (cysteine-rich with EGF-like domains 2). ERS activation was not observed in the W17R line, while the W10R line displayed intermediate features. None of the lines upregulated TGFβ. Importantly, the W17R variant was misdirected to the mitochondria.
Conclusion:
Individuals with the L381P mutation may benefit from research on ADTKD-UMOD and ADTKD-MUC1 treatments. The pathogenic mechanism of the W17R mutation involves mitochondria rather than the ER pathway, thus may potentially overlap with MITKD. We propose testing CRELD2 and MANF as markers to target therapies for a specific subgroup of ADTKD-REN patients.
Applying Deep Learning for automated visual verification of manual bracket installations
Authors: Quantrill Liam , Oyekan John , Turner Christopher , Tiwari Ashutosh
Published: October 2023

In this work, we explore a deep learning based automated visual inspection and verification algorithm, based on the Siamese Neural Network architecture. This is explored alongside the typical Convolutional Neural Network. Consideration is also given to how the input pairs of images can affect the performance of the Siamese Neural Network, dependent on the nature of the dataset used. A case study is provided from the aircraft manufacturing industry focusing on the visual inspection of wing bracket installations. A novel voting scheme specific to the Siamese Neural Network which sees a single model vote on multiple reference images is validated in this work. The results obtained show great potential for the use of the Siamese Neural Network for automated visual inspection and verification tasks in aircraft manufacturing and similar industries where there is often a scarcity of training data available.
Alfalfa perimeter strips reduce Lygus lineolaris populations in June-bearing strawberry fields
Authors: Hetherington Matthew C. , Fox Matthew , Johnson Megan , Lopina Allison , Mechelke Emma , Weissner Morgan , Guédot Christelle
Published: October 2023

Lygus lineolaris Palisot de Beauvois (Hemiptera: Miridae) is the primary insect pest of strawberry in eastern and central North America. Strategies to minimize L. lineolaris colonization of strawberry at bloom and peak fruit susceptibility without impacting pollinator health must be developed. To this end, we examined the potential of alfalfa perimeter strips to reduce L. lineolaris populations in June-bearing strawberry fields. Over a three-year experiment, L. lineolaris densities and beneficial arthropod abundance were monitored on three commercial strawberry farms where alfalfa was established as a trap crop near strawberry plots. Alfalfa perimeter strips were found to concentrate L. lineolaris populations and led to a 36% reduction in L. lineolaris densities in adjacent strawberry plots compared to controls. When a protein immunomark-capture experiment was conducted to examine the extent of movement between the alfalfa strips and adjacent strawberry plots, it was determined that approximately three times as many L. lineolaris migrated from strawberry to alfalfa than vice versa. Moreover, adult females were overrepresented among immigrants to alfalfa, suggesting that alfalfa may be a preferred oviposition site for L. lineolaris. While the presence of alfalfa perimeter strips increased beneficial arthropod abundance and diversity in experimental plots overall, most effects were limited to the alfalfa strip itself, with little spillover into adjacent strawberry plots. These data suggest that preferential utilization of alfalfa by L. lineolaris underlies the observed population reductions and that alfalfa perimeter strips act as a trap crop in June-bearing strawberries.