bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stable fabrication of femtosecond-laser-induced periodic nanostructures on glass by using real-time monitoring and active feedback control
Authors: Miyaji Godai , Nagai Daisuke , Miyoshi Takemichi , Takada Hideyuki , Yoshitomi Dai , Narazaki Aiko
Published: August 2024

Femtosecond (fs) laser pulses can be employed to form periodic nanostructures directly on solid surfaces, including hard materials like diamond and sapphire, through ablation. This technique holds promise for various industrial nanofabrication applications. However, stable formation of uniform nanostructures is challenging due to high sensitivity to changes in processing conditions like the surface roughness of materials and the laser power. We report a real-time monitoring and control approach for fabricating high-quality nanostructures on glass surfaces. We measured the reflectance and transmittance of a laser-irradiated surface simultaneously and determined their specific values corresponding to the formation of a uniform nanostructure with a period of 200 nm and a depth of 1 μm. Utilizing these values as feedback signals in a proportional-integral-derivative control system, we adjusted the laser power during irradiation to form a uniform nanostructure. This approach led to a significant reduction in the defect ratio for the nanostructure (~2.4%), which represents about a 10 times reduction compared to uncontrolled processing. Our results demonstrate the potential for stable and direct fabrication of high-quality nanostructures on solids and offer a valuable method for quality assurance of nanostructures for various applications.
Silicon-based star coupler power splitter with enhanced non-uniformity
Authors: Tian Yu , Voskerchyan Varam , Soares Francisco , Otero Francisco Diaz
Published: August 2024

We designed and fabricated a SOI based insertion loss non-uniformity enhanced star coupler with improved total transmission. The design utilizes a ‘squeeze’ dual input taper with auxiliary input taper placed right next to the central input taper. The specially designed taper structure transforms the fundamental Gaussian-shaped input profile at the entry of the free propagation region into a sinc mode field which produces a flat-top far field profile at the output waveguides array, without adding to the overall device footprint.
Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment of Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Wulandari Rizki , Chan Chung-Han , Gao Jia-Cian , Natawidjaja Danny Hilman
Published: August 2024

This study assesses probabilistic seismic hazard for Sumatra through a series of progressive approaches. In order to better illustrate possible seismic activity of each seismogenic source—shallow area source, the active fault source, the Sunda trench, and subduction intraslab area source, our analysis implements earthquake catalogs and fault parameters. For the Sumatran fault system (SFS) and the Sunda subduction interface, we assessed their rupture probabilities based on the truncated exponential model, the time-dependent Brownian Passage Time (BPT) model, and the earthquake rates considering complex multiple-segments rupture. Seismic activity of each area source was modeled through the Gutenberg-Richter law. Due to lack of ground-motion models specifically for the study region, we proposed several earthquake scenarios and compared with instrumental observations and felt report to determine appropriate ground motion models for various sources. We assessed seismic hazard considering the bedrock engineering (i.e., \(\:{V}_{s}^{30}\:=\:760\:m/s)\) and specific site condition (based on the \(\:{V}_{s}^{30}\) map by USGS). The results indicate that the region close to the SFS and the Sunda trench face higher hazard levels (1.0-2.1 \(\:g\)) in both 10% and 2% probability of exceedance in 50 years. We also assessed city-scale seismic hazard for seven metropolitans, including Lampung, Bengkulu, Bangka Belitung, Palembang, Padang, Medan, and Aceh—through hazard curves and disaggregation. The hazard disaggregation indicated that the SFS is the primary contribution to the overall seismic hazard in the regions. The outcomes of this study provide valuable information for emergency response planning, urban development, and preparedness of governmental agencies before a disastrous earthquake in the Sumatran region.
Long-term outcome of robotic-guided closed reduction internal fixation for Delbet II femoral neck fractures in children
Authors: Shen Zhaoxiong , Liu Zhenjiang , Shen Chulong , Mo Zhihong , Chen Yongge , Guo Yueming , Wu Feng , Gao Junqing
Published: August 2024

Objective
To retrospectively analyze and assess the long-term effectiveness of robotic navigation and traditional closed reduction internal fixation in the treatment of Delbet type II femoral neck fracture in children.
Methods
A total of fifty-five patients diagnosed with pediatric Delbet type II femoral neck fracture, who were admitted to Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between January 2018 and June 2022, were included in this study. Among them, 22 cases of nailing under robotic navigation were set as the observation group, and 33 cases of nailing under fluoroscopy of the C-arm machine were set as the control group. All patients had their femoral neck fractures closed and repositioned first. After confirming the satisfactory fracture repositioning under the fluoroscopic view of the C-arm machine, internal fixation was performed by inserting hollow compression screws in the corresponding surgical way.A comparative analysis was conducted between the two groups to assess the disparity in the amount of X-ray exposure during surgery, the number of guide pins inserted, and the duration of the surgical procedure. The quality of comparative fracture reduction was assessed according to the Haidukewych criteria on the first postoperative hip X-ray, and the parallelism and distribution of the comparative screws were measured. The incidence of hip function and postoperative complications according to the Ratliff criteria were evaluated between each of the subgroups at the final follow-up.
Results
Comparison of general information, operation duration, and quality of fracture reduction between the two groups failed to reveal statistically significant results (P > 0.05). The observation group had a lower number of X-ray exposures and guide pin placements compared to the control group, and this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).At the last follow-up, the observation group exhibited superior screw parallelism and distribution, as well as hip joint function, compared to the control group, and this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The incidence of complications in the observation group was lower than that in the control group; however, the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Closed reduction and internal fixation under orthopedic robot navigation can achieve better long-term efficacy in treating Delbet type II femoral neck fracture in children.
Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Turkish Version of the Moral Courage Scale for Physicians
Authors: Yılmaz Şerife , Güven Gamze Özbek , İnceoğlu Feyza
Published: August 2024

Background
Physicians, like other healthcare professionals, frequently encounter situations requiring moral courage in their professional lives. However, studies on the moral courage of physicians are limited in the literature. This study aims to evaluate the Turkish adaptation, validity, and reliability of the Moral Courage Scale for Physicians (MCSP) and to contribute to national and international studies on moral courage among physicians.
Materials and methods
This methodological study involved the adaptation, validity, and reliability assessment of the MCSP in Turkish. The scale's internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's α coefficient, and the total correlation coefficients for the items were calculated. Test-retest reliability was assessed using a two-group design.
Results
The Turkish version of the MCSP demonstrated high internal consistency, with a Cronbach's α coefficient of 0.91. The total correlation coefficients for the items ranged from 0.387 to 0.797. A significant positive correlation was found between the test and retest scores of the MCSP (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
The Turkish version of the MCSP is a valid and reliable tool for assessing moral courage among physicians.
Combining local data and scientific models to prioritize conservation for European ground squirrel and safeguard grassland habitats
Authors: Lugonja Tijana Nikolić , Pouwels Rogier , Arok Maja , Radišić Dimitrije , Ćosić Nada , Ćirović Duško , Wamelink Wieger GW
Published: August 2024

Context Promoting habitat networks of natural grasslands within agricultural landscapes is crucial to supporting biodiversity and protecting endangered grassland species. Understanding the degree of fragmentation of these habitat networks assists in better elucidating their value to the grassland network. However, natural grassland characteristics in intensively used landscapes often need to be more adequately documented, which hinders effective grassland biodiversity conservation.Objectives We combined local data and modeling to identify conservation priorities for natural grasslands through assessing population and habitat patch characteristics for European Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus citellus, EGS), a keystone grassland specialist, in agricultural settings.Methods We used available information with presence/absence data and two spatially explicit models (LARCH and Circuitscape) to assess the potential of the current landscape in northern Serbia to protect the EGS. We applied the LARCH model to indicate potential habitat networks for the EGS and Circuitscape to assess connectivity of areas within and between these networks and identify areas of interventions that will serve as corridors between networks after restoration work. Together with the presence/absence data, this is used to set priorities for conservation actions for each network.Results We identified the presence of 15 habitat networks. The networks differ in connectivity, size, capacity, and sustainability to support local EGS populations.Conclusions The results revealed areas on which spatial adaptation measures and actions should be deployed to accommodate the long-term survival of EGS. In addition, the findings help the conservation of (semi)natural grassland and future land planning in terms of sustainable land use in an agricultural setting.
In situ insertion of one or two hydroxy-rich unnatural amino acid into sfGFP to alter its performance
Authors: Fan Xuanhe , Liu Yumei , Chen Zhenya
Published: August 2024

Unnatural amino acids (unAAs) possess unique properties owing to their distinct functional groups, and their insertion into proteins can significantly alter protein function and properties. Currently, the predominant method for inserting unAAs into proteins is through genetic code expansion (GCE), which mimics the natural translation process within cells and necessitates the exogenous supplementation of unAAs. However, in many instances, microbial cells do not recognize unAAs as essential nutrients and lack specific transporters for their uptake across the cell membrane, thereby greatly reducing their insertion efficiency. To address this issue, our study developed an in situinsertion method for enhancing the efficiency of unAAs insertion into proteins and further explored the feasibility of simultaneously inserting two different unAAs into one protein. Firstly, the orthogonal translation system for hydroxy-rich unAAs 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) or 4-hydroxyisoleucine (4-HiL) were constructed and then transformed into microbial cells to achieve the insertion of 5-HTP or 4-HiL into sfGFP by feeding 5-HTP or 4-HiL. Subsequently, the biosynthetic pathways of 5-HTP or 4-HiL were constructed in E. coli which contained the corresponding orthogonal translation system, resulting in the in situ insertion of 5-HTP or 4-HiL into sfGFP.Further, we developed a co-insertion method based on codons UGA and UAG. Introduction of the biosynthetic pathways and the orthogonal translation systems of 5-HTP and 4-HiL in the same cells achieved the in situ co-insertion of 5-HTP and 4-HiL in one sfGFP. This work provided a representative example for in situinsertion of unAAs into protein to increase the insertion efficiency, and explored the possibility of co-inserting two types of unAAs into one protein.
IL-1b drives SARS-CoV-2 disease in vivo, independently of the inflammasome and pyroptotic signalling
Authors: Doerflinger Marcel , Bader Stefanie M. , Scherer Lena , Schaefer Jan , Cooney James , Mackiewicz Liana , Dayton Merle , Georgy Smitha , Davidson Kathryn , Allison Cody , Herold Marco , Strasser Andreas , Pellegrini Marc
Published: August 2024

Excessive inflammation and cytokine release are hallmarks of severe COVID-19. Programmed cell death processes can drive inflammation, however, the relevance in the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19 is unclear. Pyroptosis is a pro-inflammatory form of regulated cell death initiated by inflammasomes and executed by the pore-forming protein gasdermin D (GSDMD). Using an established mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 virus and a combination of gene-targeted mice we found that deletion of the inflammasome (NLRP1/3 and the adaptor ASC) and pore forming proteins involved in pyroptosis (GSDMA/C/D/E) did not impact disease outcome or viral loads. Furthermore, we found that SARS-CoV-2 infection did not trigger GSDMD activation in mouse lungs. We did not observe any difference between WT animals and mice with compound deficiencies in upstream caspases C1/11/12−/−. This indicates that the classical canonical and non-canonical pro-inflammatory caspases known to process and activate IL-1β, IL-18 and GSDMD do not substantially contribute to SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. However, the loss of IL-1β, but not the absence of IL-18, ameliorated disease and enhanced survival in older animals compared to wildtype mice. Collectively, these findings indicate that IL-1β is an important factor contributing to severe SARS-CoV-2 disease, but its release was largely independent of inflammasome and pyroptotic pathways.
The psychological burden of caring for children with intellectual disabilities as experienced by care workers
Authors: Molefe Lebogang Lilian
Published: August 2024

Background: Intellectual disability limits the child’s ability to perform activities of daily living independently. The disability is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects cognitive functioning such as learning, problem-solving, and judgement, plus adaptive functioning such as communication and social participation. At home, children depend on primary caregivers to assist them in fulfilling activities of daily living. When admitted to hospitals, such responsibilities lie with care workers. Caring for children with intellectual disabilities might put the psychological being of care workers at risk. Little is known about the psychological burden of caring for children with intellectual disabilities. The study explored and described the psychological burden of caring for children with intellectual disabilities as experienced by care workers.
Methods: A qualitative-exploratory-descriptive and contextual research design was used. The participants were care workers at hospitals admitting children with intellectual disabilities in Gauteng. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 care workers. Data were audio-recorded and analysed using content analysis and ATLAS ti.
Results: The following two psychological burdens emerged; namely, stress and emotional trauma. The long-term strategies to manage stress and emotional trauma were further recommended to improve the working environment of care workers.
Conclusion:The study found that care workers of children with intellectual disabilities experience psychological burdens associated with caring, as evidenced by stress and emotional trauma experienced by care workers. Long-term strategies such as problem-focused coping approaches and adaptive coping strategies were recommended. If applied, recommendations will improve the health conditions of care workers. Findings will further assist future researchers who are aiming to develop programmes of support for care workers.
Association between infection with Helicobacter pylori and Metabolic Syndrome among diabetic patients attending Jimma Medical Center in Jimma City, Ethiopia: A cross- sectional study
Authors: Ibrahim Temam , Russel William , Getachew Aklilu , Zemene Endalew , Cheneke Waqtola , Taye Bineyam
Published: August 2024

Background
Previous studies have implicated the role of H. pylori infection in developing the metabolic syndrome. However, findings remain contradictory, and data from developing countries are scarce.
Methods
We employed a cross-sectional study design to assess the relationship between H. pylori infection and metabolic syndrome among diabetic patients attending Jimma Hospital, Ethiopia. An interviewer-led questionnaire administered to study participants provided information on sociodemographic factors, and medical records were used to obtain medical history information. Metabolic parameters, including plasma glucose, triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), body-mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were collected. H. pylori infection status was assessed using IgG Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA). The effect of H. pylori infection on metabolic syndrome and metabolic parameters was determined using multivariate linear and logistic regressions.
Results
We found H. pylori infection status was positively but not significantly associated with metabolic syndrome (AOR = 1.507, 95% CI: 0.570–3.981, p = 0.408). When the analysis was restricted to individual metabolic parameters, H. pylori positivity was significantly associated with lower HDL-c and higher SB, respectively.
Conclusions
Our result confirms that individual metabolic parameters, not an overall metabolic syndrome, are significantly associated with H. pylori infection. Future studies should examine the relationship between H. pylori and metabolic syndrome, considering gastrointestinal conditions such as GERD, GU, and DU.
Implications of initial conditions and role of Micro-physics in WRF Simulation: A case study of East India
Authors: Kanaujia Devanshu , Shahi Namendra Kumar , Rai Shailendra , Kumar Praveen
Published: August 2024

Thunderstorms and lightning, typical mesoscale convective systems often cause severe flash floods and related disasters. The accompanying moderate to severe lightning also causes significant disruption. However, accurately simulating thunderstorms and lightning remains challenge for most mesoscale models, as they struggle to represent the mesoscale-convective processes that lead to thunderstorm formation. In this study, we analyzed a thunderstorm event that took place on 28th April 2015 in northeastern India using the Advanced Research version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) mesoscale model. This case was associated with extreme heavy precipitation events. We conducted a series of numerical experiments at a convection-permitting scale with a 3-km horizontal grid spacing using initial and boundary conditions (LBCs) from two sources, namely NCEP-GFS and NCEP-FNL. We also employed four microphysical schemes namely Thompson, WSM6, Morrison and Purdue Lin which are tested in WRFto evaluate the impact of the LBCs and microphysics schemes on the simulation of the thunderstorm event. This study highlights the critical role of experimental design in achieving realistic simulations of heavy precipitation events with the WRF model. It focuses on the evolution of thermodynamic and dynamical processes within an event. The results indicated that two microphysics schemes, namely the Purdue Lin and the WRF Single-moment 6-class schemes, performed better than other microphysics schemes in simulating this event, although with some variations in precipitation characteristics. Notably, the model simulation using NCEP-GFS LBCs and the Purdue Lin scheme produced a reasonable and realistic representation of the precipitation characteristics and associated dynamical and thermodynamic processes. Overall, this study underscores the importance of both microphysics schemes and LBCs in the simulation of thunderstorm events and emphasizes that the choice of microphysics scheme and the LBCs would substantially impact the accuracy and realism of thunderstorm simulations.
Convolutional Neural Networks in Dermatology: Skin Cancer Detection and Analysis
Authors: Ganthya Manoj
Published: August 2024

Skin cancer, a highly prevalent form of cancer, necessitates early and accurate detection to improve patient outcomes. Traditional diagnostic methods, including visual examination and biopsies, are often subjective and invasive. This paper investigates the application of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) in the automated detection and classification of skin cancer, offering a non-invasive and reliable alternative. We provide an in-depth overview of CNN architecture, covering key components such as convolutional layers, pooling layers, activation functions, and the backpropagation algorithm. Additionally, we address critical aspects of dataset preparation, including image preprocessing, augmentation techniques, and the use of large, annotated datasets to enhance model performance.
Estimating Energy balance, Crop Coefficient and Evapotranspiration of Baby corn under different sowing windows of Tamil Nadu
Authors: T Sankar , SP Ramanathan , Ga Dheebakaran , T Govindaraj , N Kowshika , K Chandrakumar , S Kokilavani , T Thurkkaivel
Published: August 2024

Surface energy and water balance calculations across crop surfaces improves comprehension of water balance and facilitates water usage that is cost-effective. With this idea, field trails were conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during two cropping seasons i.e.,winter (Jan-March) and kharif (June-Sep), 2022 to study crop development, energy balance partitioning and evapotranspiration rate at various growth stage of baby corn under different sowing windows. Energy balance components were studied using Bowen Ratio Energy Balance method (BREB). Crop evapotranspiration was measured and simulated using AquaCrop model. Results clearly indicated that maximum energy balance components such as net radiation (Rn), Latent Heat Flux (LE), Sensible heat flux (H), Ground heat flux (G) were recorded at maturity stage, among crop growing cycle. Early sowing accumulated more amount of energy balance than mid and late sown crops during both seasons. Daily Kc values varied significantly from 0.05 to 1.01 and 0.01 to 0.96 for winter and kharif seasons, respectively. Good correlation was observed between calculated and simulated daily crop evapotranspiration (Etc). The total measured Etc was 486 and 624.4 mm for winter and kharif, respectively whereas AquaCrop simulated ETc of 438.8 mm and 500.4 mm. The digital agricultural technologies like crop simulation models would be useful to increase the accuracy of ET calculation in agricultural water management. This study examines the effective approaches used in estimating ET for baby corn water management which could be made to boost the precision of ET estimation and achieve precise water management.
Effect of Induction Heat Treatment on Microstructure, Mechanical and Corrosion Properties of Stainless Steel 308L Fabricated using Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Sun Yangfan , Li Xiang long , Xu Lai , Shen Hongyao , Liu Yougen
Published: August 2024

Induction solution heat treatment can change the mechanical characteristics and corrosion resistance properties of 308L manufactured via wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM). Moreover, compare with traditional heat treatment methods, this method can reduce heat treatment time and achieve in-situ local heat treatment. By applying induction solution heat treatment to 308L fabricated using WAAM, ferrite and austenite phase proportions were changed. Heat treatment at 1100 ℃ effectively reduced the δ-Fe and σ-Fe content, resulting in a slight decrease in UTS, while YS, EL, and microhardness have a certain degree of increase. σ-Fe exhibits a more pronounced strengthening effect than austenite, albeit at the potential expense of steel's elasticity. At the same time, induction heat treatment alters the ferrite to austenite ratio, which also enhances the anti-corrosion properties of the stainless steel. However, the presence of σ-Fe will cause a worsening of the corrosion resistance of the steel. In addition, as the heat treatment progress advances, there is a notable transformation in the ferrite's microstructure in the deposition direction, from continuous dendrites to a small number of equiaxed grains.
Pollen contaminated with a triple-action fungicide induced oxidative stress and reduced bee longevity though with less impact on lifespan in bees from well fed colonies
Authors: Alves Thais , Trivellato Matheus , Freitas Tainá , Kato Aline , Gomes Cássia , Ferraz Yara , Serafim Jéssica , De Jong David , Prado Evandro , Vicente Eduardo , Orsi Ricardo , Pereira Gener , Miranda Camila , Mingatto Fábio , Nicodemo Daniel
Published: August 2024

There is increasing evidence that besides insecticides, fungicides also affect bee health. However, there has been little research on how bees are affected by recently developed modern fungicides that contain various active ingredients to help overcome fungal pathogen resistance. Experiments were conducted to determine how this type of fungicide affects bees and whether annutritional supplements can ameliorate eventual negative impacts for bees. Newly-emerged bees from well fed and from nutritionally restricted honey bee colonies were maintained in groups of 20 in plastic cages in an incubator and fed for five days with pollen from sunflower plants that had been sprayed or not during flowering with a three-component commercial fungicide containing bixafen, prothioconazole and trifloxystrobin. Bees from the well-fed colonies were significantly larger and consumed more uncontaminated pollen in the cage tests. They also had increased glutathione peroxidase activity and higher concentrations of pyridine nucleotides. Feeding on the fungicide-contaminated pollen resulted in decreased catalase activity of bees from well-fed colonies and damage to cell membranes of bees indepent of nutritional condition. Bee longevity was reduced by both fungicide contamination of the pollen diet and poor nutritional condition of the donor colony. In conclusion, the triple action commercial fungicide adversely affected bees fed with contaminated pollen, though nutritional supplementation of bee colonies that provided the bees partially compensated for these effects.
The Role of Smart Electricity Meter Data Analysis in Driving Sustainable Development
Authors: Chaudhari Archana Y. , Chavan Shrada , Mulay Preeti
Published: August 2024

The sustainability of the electricity system is closely related to the analysis of smart electricity meter data, which plays an important role in enhancing energy management and overall grid operation. The widespread use of household smart meters generates a substantial volume of data, offering an opportunity to enhance overall energy management by analyzing household electricity usage data. However, when faced with an influx of new data, traditional clustering methods require re-clustering all the data from scratch, which can be computationally intensive. To address the challenge of handling the ever-increasing data, an incremental clustering algorithm proves to be the most suitable choice. Incremental learning, accomplished through incremental clustering, provides a straightforward and effective approach. In this research, the proposed Closeness-based Gaussian Mixture Incremental Clustering (CGMIC) Algorithm updates load patterns without relying on overall daily load curve clustering. The CGMIC algorithm first extracts load patterns from new data and then either intergrades the existing load patterns or forms new ones. Real-world electricity smart meter data, such as the IITB Indian Residential Energy Dataset, is utilized to validate the proposed system. The effectiveness of the proposed system is assessed using metrics like the silhouette score and Davis Bouldin index, employing the incremental K-means algorithm. The insight gained from the proposed system contribute directly to sustainable development goals. By effectively identifies changes in residential electricity consumption behavior, providing valuable insights for utility companies to optimize electricity load management.
Emergent Vision Technology: 3D Human Pose Estimation for Single-Pixel Imaging (SPI)
Authors: Quero Carlos Osorio , Martinez-Carranza Jose
Published: August 2024

Applying 3D human pose and body shape details from a single monocular image presents a significant challenge in computer vision. Traditional methods that rely on RGB images often face constraints due to varying lighting conditions and occlusions. However, advancements in imaging technologies have introduced new techniques, such as single-pixel imaging (SPI), which can overcome these limitations. SPI is particularly effective in capturing 3D human pose in the Near-Infrared (NIR) spectrum. This wavelength can penetrate clothing and is less affected by lighting variations than visible light, providing a reliable means to accurately capture body shape and pose data, even in challenging environments. In this work, we explore using an SPI camera operating in the NIR range, with Time-of-Flight (TOF) technology at wavelengths of 850-1550 nm, to detect humans in night-time environments. Our proposed system employs SPI for depth estimation and feature extraction in humans. These features generate point clouds integrated into a 3D body model (SMPLX) via 3D body shape regression. This process utilizes deep learning techniques based on self-supervised 3D human mesh methodologies. We constructed a laboratory scenario simulating night-time conditions to evaluate the efficacy of NIR-SPI 3D image reconstruction. This setup allowed us to test the feasibility of using NIR-SPI as a vision sensor in outdoor environments. By assessing the results obtained from this setup, we aim to demonstrate the potential of NIR-SPI as an effective tool for detecting humans in night-time scenarios and accurately capturing their 3D body pose and shape, with future applications in environmental rescue.
Successful Emotional Priming in Virtual Reality was Not Modulated by tDCS and Did Not Affect Time Perception
Authors: Silva André
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the effects of emotional priming in virtual reality (VR) on time perception using a temporal bisection task and the potential effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the right ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) in hindering emotional processing. Fifty-three participants underwent active anodal or sham tDCS on the right vmPFC while exposed to neutral or fear-inducing VR videos. The participants then completed a temporal bisection task. The study measured arousal and valence through self-report questionnaires and psychophysiological measures (heart rate, heart rate variability, electrodermal activity). The results indicate that VR priming was effective in producing changes in arousal and valence, but this had no impact on time perception. Also, tDCS did not modulate the relationship between priming and time perception. These findings show the viability of using VR to generate emotional states, but these may not always produce changes in time perception. tDCS, as applied according to our protocol, also seemed unable to regulate fear processing.
Development of Intervertebral Disc Organoids through Directed Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Hierarchical Bioprinting
Authors: Wang Bingjin , Wu Di , Zhu Dingchao , Zhou Xingyu , Li Gaocai , Zhang Xiaoguang , Ma Liang , Liang Huaizhen , Tong Bide , Lei Jie , Wang Hongchuan , Feng Xiaobo , Wang Kun , Tan Lei , Shi Yunsong , Yang Cao
Published: August 2024

Organoid models of early tissue development have been generated for organs such as the brain, kidney, and intestine. However, the development of intervertebral disc (IVD) organoids has rarely been reported. Here, we have developed a protocol to directly differentiate nucleus pulposus (NP) organoids and annulus fibrosis (AF) organoids from human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) using differentiation media supplemented with folic acid (FA) and connective tissue growth factor in a 3D environment. We found that FA promotes NP generation by regulating the PI3K-AKT and TGF-β pathways. Utilizing digital light processing 3D printing techniques, we hierarchically constructed biomimetic scaffolds consisting of customized host-guest and silk fibroin hydrogels for NP and AF organoids. Subsequently, these were assembled into complex and highly structured IVD organoids (IVDOs) characterized by a central NP-like region surrounded by AF-like structures. Furthermore, the implantation of IVDOs into the goat lumbar spine after IVD discectomy results in anisotropic reconstruction of the IVD and has potential for preventing degenerative disc diseases. These findings highlight the successful development of IVDOs for the study of disc degenerative diseases and underscore the need for advancements toward further clinical translation in treating disc degeneration.
Resting human trabecular meshwork cells experience tonic cation influx
Authors: Yarishkin Oleg , Lakk Monika , Rudzitis Christopher N. , Kirdajova Denisa , Krizaj David
Published: August 2024

The trabecular meshwork (TM) regulates intraocular pressure (IOP) by converting biochemical and biomechanical stimuli into intracellular signals. Recent electrophysiological studies demonstrated that this process is mediated by pressure sensing ion channels in the TM plasma membrane while the molecular and functional properties of channels that underpin ionic homeostasis in resting cells remain largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that the TM resting potential is subserved by a powerful cationic conductance that disappears following Na+ removal and substitution with choline or NMDG+. Its insensitivity to TTX, verapamil, phenamil methanesulfonate and amiloride indicates it does not involve voltage-operated Na+, Ca2+ and epithelial Na+ (ENaC) channels or Na+/H+ exchange while a modest hyperpolarization induced by SEA-0440 indicates residual contribution from reversed Na+/Ca2+ exchange. Tonic cationic influx was inhibited by Gd3+ and Ruthenium Red but not GsMTx4, indicating involvement of TRP-like but not Piezo channels. Transcriptional analysis detected expression of most TRP genes, with the canonical transcriptome pool dominated by TRPC1 followed by the expression of TRPV1, TRPC3 and TRPC5. TRPC3 antagonist Pyr3 and TRPC1,4,5 antagonist Pico1,4,5 did not affect the standing current, whereas the TRPC blocker SKF96365 promoted rather than suppressed, Na+ influx. TM cells thus maintain the resting membrane potential, control Na+ homeostasis, and balance K+ efflux through a novel constitutive monovalent cation leak current with properties not unlike those of TRP channels. Yet to be identified at the molecular level, this novel channel sets the homeostatic steady-state and controls the magnitude of pressure-induced transmembrane signals.
Free vibration properties of novel sandwich plates with a Layered and Rotational Core
Authors: Wang Youlong , Cai Yuxiang , Hosen Kamal , Pan Junwei , Ruan Sihan
Published: August 2024

The layered sandwich plate structure is widely used in various fields due to its lightweight and high-strength characteristics. To further enhance the functionality of these structures and expand their application areas, this study investigates the impact of an innovative method for adjusting the interlayer angle, using honeycomb and grid cores as examples. The effect of this interlayer angle on the first nine natural frequencies and vibration modes of the sandwich plates is explored. The results indicate that 1) at different angles, the natural frequencies of the same order vibration modes exhibit significant differences. For instance, in the case of the grid core, the minimum change rate of the natural frequency can exceed 10%, and the maximum can reach 16.68%; 2) compared to the unadjusted layered plates, which exhibit localized deformation in higher-order vibration modes, the stiffness distribution becomes more uniform after rotation, transforming the vibration modes into overall continuous deformations; 3) the proposed method allows for considerable changes in natural frequencies of various orders while maintaining stable structural mechanical properties without adding weight. This effectively avoids resonance with the working environment and promotes uniform stiffness distribution, making the structure suitable for use in more demanding stable environments.
Manajemen Pendidikan Karakter
Authors: Latifa Fiqya Ainatul
Published: August 2024

Pendidikan saat ini mengalami pergeseran signifikan, dengan fokus utama bukan hanya pada transfer pengetahuan, tetapi juga pada pembentukan karakter dan kepribadian individu. Krisis moral dan degradasi karakter di kalangan anak muda juga menjadi perhatian serius. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan jenis studi kasus di Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Miftahul Akhlaqiyah Kecamatan Bringin Kota Semarang. Fokus permasalahan dalam penelitian ini: 1) Bagaimana perencanaan pendidikan karakter di MI Miftahul Akhlaqiyah? 2) Bagaimana pengorganisasian pendidikan karakter di MI Miftahul Akhlaqiyah? 3) Bagaimana pelaksanaan pendidikan karakter di MI Miftahul Akhlaqiyah? 4) Bagaimana pengawasan pendidikan karakter di MI Miftahul Akhlaqiyah? Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pendidikan karakter di madrasah tersebut terpadu dalam proses pembelajaran, kegiatan ekstrakurikuler, dan pembudayaan serta pembiasaan. Manajemen pendidikan karakter dilakukan melalui perencanaan yang berlandaskan visi, misi, dan tujuan madrasah, pengorganisasian tugas guru dan karyawan, pelaksanaan dalam kegiatan pembelajaran, ekstrakulikuler, serta pembudayaan dan pembiasaan, serta pengawasan dengan penggunaan instrumen supervisi.Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan yang mendalam tentang implementasi manajemen endidikan karakter di madrasah tersebut dan dapat memberikan masukan serta rekomendasi bagi pengembangan endidikan karakter di lingkungan madrasah secara umum.
Upaya Peningkatan Prestasi Belajar Matematika Melalui Alat Hitung Sipoa Kelas III SLB-C Dharma Mulia Semarang Tahun Pelajaran 2021/2022
Authors: Wahyuningsih Sri Lestari
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menilai peningkatan prestasi belajar siswa tunagrahita melalui penggunaan alat hitung Sipoa di SLB-C Dharma Mulia Semarang pada tahun ajaran 2021/2022. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian tindakan kelas dengan tiga siswa kelas 3 SLB-C Dharma Mulia Semarang tahun ajaran 2021/2022 yang memiliki skor matematika kurang dari enam. Penelitian dilakukan selama semester 1, mulai dari Oktober hingga Desember 2021, dengan menggunakan model desain alur dari Kemmis dan Taggart yang melibatkan dua siklus tindakan. Langkah-langkah penelitian mencakup perencanaan, pelaksanaan tindakan, pengamatan, refleksi, dan perencanaan ulang, yang menjadi dasar untuk tindakan perbaikan berikutnya hingga mencapai hasil yang lebih baik. Data dikumpulkan melalui tes dan dokumen, dan dianalisis menggunakan model analisis alur. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan alat hitung Sipoa dalam pembelajaran matematika mampu meningkatkan prestasi belajar siswa kelas III SLB-C Dharma Mulia Semarang tahun ajaran 2021/2022. Selain itu, penggunaan alat hitung ini juga meningkatkan keterlibatan dan motivasi siswa dalam proses pembelajaran, mempermudah pemahaman materi ajar, dan memudahkan guru dalam penyampaian materi pembelajaran.Kata kunci: alat hitung sipoa, prestasi belajar, siswa kelas III SLB-C Dharma Mulia Semarang.
Ideal, Homomorfisma dan Gelanggang Faktor Pada Gelanggang Artin
Authors: Satriawan Didit , Husni Muhammad Naoval
Published: August 2024

Pada penelitian ini akan ditunjukkan beberapa karakteristik dari gelanggang Artin seperti ideal prima, ideal maksimal, homomorfisma dan gelanggang faktor pada gelanggang artin. Hasil utama yang didapatkan dalam penelitian ini adalah jika R gelanggang Artin maka setiap ideal prima dari R adalah maksimal, kemudian jika R merupakan gelanggang Artin maka S juga merupakan gelanggang Artin, dan yang terakhir jika I dan R/I merupakan gelanggang Artin maka R merupakan gelanggang Artin
Game health saving technologies usage in pre-school educational institution
Authors: Tunegova Natalia Viacheslavovna
Published: August 2024

The problem of protecting and promoting the health of children is studied in this article. It is noted that the use of game health saving technologies implies the formation of a meaningful attitude to health as an important life value for preschoolers, the implementation of a complex of health-saving technologies during the educational process, the creation of psychological and pedagogical conditions, the development of motor sphere and the health of children based on their creative activity.
Descripción del consumo de medicamentos en víctimas de incidentes viales en un servicio de urgencias
Authors: López-Bernal Pablo Andrés , Tamayo-Pretelt Juan Nicolás , Rubio-Gutiérrez Nicole Juliana , Losada-Suárez Angélica María , Palacios-Ariza María Alejandra , Escobar-Wilches Derly Constanza
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Some medications could affect driving ability in traffic accidents and increase accident rates. Objective: To describe the pharmacological consumption profile of patients treated for traffic accidents in Bogotá, Colombia. Method: A cross-sectional study was implemented based on the medical records of patients admitted to an emergency department due to traffic accidents in 2019. Sociodemographic variables and pharmacological history were described. The Mann-Whitney U test compared age and hospital stay between patients consuming and not consuming medications. Results: 1037 records were reviewed; 67% were men. 9.6% of patients were taking drugs; antihypertensives were the most common. The age of patients who consumed medication was significantly older than those who denied such consumption (p<0.001). Conclusions: Medication consumption is low among people in traffic injured in Bogotá, Colombia. More studies are needed in this area.
Exploring the Potential Long-term Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Protein Misfolding and Amyloid-related Conditions
Authors: Rashid Md Harun , Singha Srinjana , Arshad Faheem , Sen Priyankar
Published: August 2024

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The long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic concerns risk to human health, particularly
its potential association with protein misfolding and amyloidosis. This review article explores
the causality relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection, and protein misfolding, leading
to amyloid-related conditions. It delves into the mechanisms by which viral proteins may accelerate
amyloid formation, exacerbating post-infection complications, including neurological sequelae.
Drawing from interdisciplinary research and clinical observations, the potential links between
COVID-19, vaccination, and amyloidosis, emphasize the importance of understanding the longterm
effect of post-COVID symptoms. This review examines the potential role of COVID-19-related
proteins in the formation of amyloid in other related proteins of amyloidosis.
Synthesis of Pregna-1,4,16-triene-3,20-dione from a Mixture of Soybean Phytosterols using a Combination of Chemical and Microbiological Methods
Authors: Huy Luu Duc , Savinova Tatiana Stepanovna , Kazantsev Alexey Vitalievich , Fokina Victoria Valerievna , Donova Marina Viktorovna
Published: August 2024

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In this paper, we present an efficient procedure for the transformation of a soybean phytosterol mixture
into pregna-1,4,16-triene-3,20-dione, which is a key intermediate for the synthesis of valuable corticoids.
The possibility of using two alternative methods for 1(2)-dehydrogenation of pregna-4,16-diene-3,20-dione -
chemical and microbiological - was shown. Microbiological 3-keto-4-ene steroid 1(2)-dehydrogenation was
carried out using actinobacterial cells of Nocardioides simplex VKM Ac-2033D. The structures of the synthesized
compounds were confirmed by the IR, MS, and 1H-NMR methods.
Synthesis of N-[trisubstitutedphenyl]-4-methyl Aniline Derivatives as Novel Anti-breast Cancer Agents
Authors: Althobaiti Fayez
Published: August 2024

A series of N-(substituted)-4-methyl aniline derivatives (4a,b, 5a,b, 6, 7, 8, and 9) has been designed
and synthesized, and their biological activities were also evaluated as potential anti-tumor and tubulin
enzyme inhibitors. Among all compounds, compound (8) showed the most potent tubulin aromatase enzyme
inhibitory activity in vitro with an IC50 of 157.3 pg/mL compared to the reference inhibitor Dox (IC50 = 227.4
pg/mL). A docking simulation was performed to insert compound (8) into the crystal structure of human aromatase
at the active site to determine the probable binding model. Based on the previous results, compound (8)
with potent inhibitory activity on tumor growth could be employed as a potential anticancer agent.
Whole Genome Sequences of Cryptotympana Atrata Fabricius, 1775 (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) in the Korean Peninsula: Insights into Population Structure with Novel Pathogenic Or Symbiotic Candidates
Authors: Park Jeong Sun , Kim Jina , Kim Yeha , Kim Ki Hwan , Kwak Woori , Kim Iksoo
Published: August 2024

Background:

The blackish cicada (Cryptotympana atrata) exhibits unique characteristics
and is one of the model cicadas found in the Korean Peninsula. It is a species of southern origin,
prefers high temperatures, and is listed as a climate-sensitive indicator species in South Korea.
Therefore, this species can be utilized to study the impact of climate change on the genetic diversity
and structure of populations. However, research on the genome of C. atrata is limited.

Methods:

We sequenced the genome of an individual collected from South Korea and constructed
a draft genome. Additionally, we collected ten specimens from each of the five regions in South
Korea and identified single nucleotide variants (SNVs) for population genetic analysis. The sequencing
library was constructed using the MGIEasy DNA Library Prep Kit and sequenced using
the MGISEQ-2000 platform with 150-bp paired-end reads.

Results:

The draft genome of C. atrata was approximately 5.0 Gb or 5.2 Gb, making it one of the
largest genomes among insects. Population genetic analysis, which was conducted on four populations
in South Korea, including both previously distributed and newly expanded regions, showed
that Jeju Island, a remote southern island with the highest average temperature, formed an independent
genetic group. However, there were no notable genetic differences among the inland populations
selected based on varying average temperatures, indicating that the current population genetic
composition on the Korean Peninsula is more reflective of biogeographic history rather than climate-
induced genetic structures. Additionally, we unexpectedly observed that most individuals of
C. atrata collected in a specific locality were infected with microbes not commonly found in insects,
necessitating further research on the pathogens within C. atrata.

Conclusion:

This study introduces the draft genome of C. atrata, a climate-sensitive indicator species
in South Korea. Population analysis results indicate that the current genetic structure of C.
atrata is driven by biogeographic history rather than just climate. The prevalence of widespread
pathogen infections raises concerns about their impact on C. atrata. Considering the scarcity of
publicly available genomic resources related to the family Cicadidae, this draft genome and population
data of C. atrata are expected to serve as a valuable resource for various studies utilizing cicada
genomes.