bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The psychological burden of caring for children with intellectual disabilities as experienced by care workers
Authors: Molefe Lebogang Lilian 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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.
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

:
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.