Goal Research Articles

Assessment of genetic diversity and population structure of U.S. Polypay sheep from breed origins to future genomic selection

Knowledge of past and present genetic diversity within a breed is critical for the design and optimization of breeding programs as well as the development of strategies for the conservation of genetic resources. The Polypay sheep breed was developed at the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station (USSES) in 1968 with the goal of improving productivity in Western U.S. range flocks. It has since flourished in the more intensively managed production systems throughout the U.S. The genetic diversity of the breed has yet to be documented. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the genetic diversity and population structure of U.S. Polypay sheep using both pedigree- and genomic-based methods. Pedigree data from 193 Polypay flocks participating in the National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) were combined with pedigree records from USSES (n = 162,997), tracing back to the breed’s origin. A subset of these pedigreed sheep from 32 flocks born from 2011 to 2023 were genotyped with the GGP Ovine 50K BeadChip containing 51,867 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Four subgroups were used for the pedigree-based analyses: 1) the current generation of animals born in 2020–2022 (n = 20,701), 2) the current generation with a minimum of four generations of known ancestors (n = 12,685), 3) only genotyped animals (n = 1,856), and 4) the sires of the current generation (n = 509). Pedigree-based inbreeding for the full population was 2.2%, with a rate of inbreeding of 0.22% per generation. Pedigree-based inbreeding, Wright’s inbreeding, and genomic inbreeding based on runs of homozygosity were 2.9%, 1.3%, and 5.1%, respectively, for the genotyped population. The effective population size ranged from 41 to 249 for the pedigree-based methods and 118 for the genomic-based estimate. Expected and observed heterozygosity levels were 0.409 and 0.403, respectively. Population substructure was evident based on the fixation index (FST), principal component analysis, and model-based population structure. These analyses provided evidence of differentiation from the foundation flock (USSES). Overall, the Polypay breed exhibited substantial genetic diversity and the presence of a population substructure that provides a basis for the implementation of genomic selection in the breed.

Factors associated with difficult intravenous access in the paediatric emergency department: A prospective cohort study.

Although it is the most performed invasive procedure, peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion in children can be difficult. The primary objective of the study was to identify the factors associated with difficult intravenous access (DIVA) in the paediatric ED, including patient, proceduralist and situational factors. This was a single-centre prospective observational cohort study conducted over 28 consecutive days. Research assistants observed PIVC insertion attempts for children under 16 years of age and recorded data for variables relating to the patient, proceduralist and event. Univariate logistic regression modelling was performed to identify factors associated with DIVA, defined as unsuccessful PIVC insertion on the first attempt. A total of 134 participants were recruited; 66 were male (49%) with a median age of 5.7 years. Fifty-two (39%) were classified as having DIVA. There was a total of 207 PIVC insertion attempts with two or more attempts needed for 48 children (36%). Patient factors associated with DIVA included age of 3 years or less and limited vein options. Proceduralist factors included gestalt of 50% or less chance of success, use of a larger gauge (smaller bore) PIVC and less PIVC insertion experience. Situational factors included a combative child, higher pain score and loud ambient noise. The present study identified multiple patient, proceduralist and situational factors that were associated with DIVA in the paediatric ED. Future studies should explore the development and implementation of a package to address DIVA in children, with the patient-centred goals of reducing pain and improving success.

An Approach to Successful Development of Clinician-Scientists in Neurology: The NINDS R25 Experience.

Training clinician-scientists is a primary objective of many academic neurology departments, as these individuals are uniquely positioned to perform insightful clinical or laboratory-based research informed both by clinical knowledge and their own experiences caring for patients. Despite its importance, training clinician-scientists has perhaps never been so challenging. The National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) R25 program was designed in an attempt to support these individuals, decrease the time needed to obtain National Institutes of Health K awards, and to help educate a cohort of trainees preparing for a career in academic neurology. We endeavored to describe the structure and features of the program while examining its outcomes. R25 outcome data from 2009 to 2024 were reviewed. Statistical comparisons were made using 2-sided Mann-Whitney U testing. A total of 67% of adult neurologists who received an R25 had a successful application for a National Institutes of Health K award compared with 45% of adult neurologists who had not received R25 support (p < 0.0001). Among child neurologists, 73% who applied went on to receive K funding after R25 support, compared with 45% who had not been part of the R25 program (p < 0.001). The average time between completion of residency and obtaining a K award for R25 participants was decreased by 26 months among those with an MD/PhD degree, and 32 months for those with an MD degree compared with non-R25 individuals. The R25 program has been successful in achieving its training goals, but stands as only one component of support for aspiring clinician-scientists. Investments and commitments made by academic neurology departments are key to supporting this success. ANN NEUROL 2024.

Improved Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm with Transfer Learning based Arabic Sign Language Identification System

The Arabic sign language (ArSL) has witnessed ground-breaking research activities to identify hand gestures and signs through the deep learning (DL) model. SL is a unique communication tool that bridges the gaps between people with hearing impairment and ordinary people. The ArSL recognition system is of immense importance for different groups of people since it enables individuals with hearing impairment to communicate effectively. In SLs, signs are characterized by discrepancies in hand positions, shapes, motions, body parts, and facial expressions, posing a crucial threat to visual recognition in computer vision (CV). An automated sign detection technique needs two primary courses of action: the recognition of specific features and the classification of the input dataset. Previously, several approaches for detecting and classifying SLs had been proposed. In this study, an Improved Metaheuristics with Transfer Learning based Arabic Sign Language Identification System (IMTL-ArSL) method is developed. The primary objective of the IMTL-ArSL method is to detect and classify the existence of various signs in the Arabic language. In the IMTL-ArSL model, the bilateral filtering (BF) model is initially used for preprocessing. Besides, the Residual Network (ResNet50v2) model is applied for extracting features, and an improved arithmetic optimization algorithm (IAOA) model is utilized for hyperparameter tuning. Finally, a gated recurrent unit (GRU) network is exploited to identify sign languages. The empirical analysis of the IMTL-ArSL approach is tested using a benchmark dataset. The experimental values of the IMTL-ArSL approach portrayed a superior accuracy value of 93.87% over other techniques.

Enhancing lower limb and core muscle activation with blood flow restriction training: a randomized crossover study on high-intensity squat exercises

ObjectiveThe primary objective of this study was to assess the impact of high-intensity deep squat training integrated with various blood flow restriction (BFR) modalities on the activation of lower limb and core muscles.MethodsA randomized, self-controlled crossover experimental design was employed with 12 participants. The exercise protocol consisted of squat training at 75% of one-repetition maximum (1RM), performed in 3 sets of 8 repetitions with a 2-min inter-set rest period. This was conducted under four distinct BFR conditions: continuous low BFR (T1), intermittent medium BFR (T2), intermittent high BFR (T3), and a non-restricted control (C). Surface electromyography (EMG) was utilized to collect EMG signals from the target muscles during the BFR and squat training sessions. The root mean square (RMS) amplitude standard values were calculated for each squat set to quantify muscle activation levels, with these values expressed as a percentage of the maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC). Rating of Perceived Exertion was evaluated after each squat set, and leg circumference measurements were taken.Results1) During the first two sets of deep squats, the %MVC of the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis in all compression groups was significantly higher than that in the control group (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Furthermore, in the first set, the %MVC of the vastus lateralis in Group T3 was significantly higher than in Group T2 (p &amp;lt; 0.05). In the third set, the %MVC of the vastus medialis in Groups T1 and T3 was significantly lower than in the first two sets (p &amp;lt; 0.05). 2) Group T1 showed an increased activation of the biceps femoris and semitendinosus muscles in the second and third sets, with %MVC values significantly greater than in the first set (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Group T2 only showed an increase in biceps femoris activation in the third set (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Group T3 significantly increased the activation of the biceps femoris and semitendinosus muscles only in the first set (p &amp;lt; 0.05). 3) No significant differences were observed in the changes of rectus abdominis %MVC among the groups (p &amp;gt; 0.05). In the first set, Group T3’s erector spinae %MVC was significantly higher than the control group’s; in the second set, it was significantly higher than both Group T2 and the control group’s (p &amp;lt; 0.05). 4) After training, a significant increase in thigh circumference was observed in all groups compared to before training (p &amp;lt; 0.05). 5) For RPE values, Group T2’s post-squat values were significantly higher than the control group’s after all three sets (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Group T1’s RPE values were also significantly higher than the control group’s after the third set (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Groups T1, T2, and C all had significantly higher RPE values in the second and third sets compared to the first set (p &amp;lt; 0.05).ConclusionAll BFR modalities significantly enhanced the activation level of the anterior thigh muscles, with the continuous low BFR mode demonstrating a more stable effect. No significant differences were found in the activation level of the rectus abdominis among the groups. However, the intermittent high BFR mode was the most effective in increasing the activation level of the erector spinae muscles. While BFR did not further augment leg circumference changes, it did elevate subjective fatigue levels. The RPE was lowest during squatting under the intermittent high BFR condition.

Leveraging Edge Computing for Video Data Streaming in UAV-Based Emergency Response Systems

The rapid advancement of technology has greatly expanded the capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in wireless communication and edge computing domains. The primary objective of UAVs is the seamless transfer of video data streams to emergency responders. However, live video data streaming is inherently latency dependent, wherein the value of the video frames diminishes with any delay in the stream. This becomes particularly critical during emergencies, where live video streaming provides vital information about the current conditions. Edge computing seeks to address this latency issue in live video streaming by bringing computing resources closer to users. Nonetheless, the mobile nature of UAVs necessitates additional trajectory supervision alongside the management of computation and networking resources. Consequently, efficient system optimization is required to maximize the overall effectiveness of the collaborative system with limited UAV resources. This study explores a scenario where multiple UAVs collaborate with end users and edge servers to establish an emergency response system. The proposed idea takes a comprehensive approach by considering the entire emergency response system from the incident site to video distribution at the user level. It includes an adaptive resource management strategy, leveraging deep reinforcement learning by simultaneously addressing video streaming latency, UAV and user mobility factors, and varied bandwidth resources.

Exploration of the intracellular chiral metabolome in pediatric BCP-ALL: a pilot study investigating the metabolic phenotype of IgH locus aberrations

Background and aimsAberrations in the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) locus are associated with poor prognosis in pediatric precursor B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL) patients. The primary objective of this pilot study is to enhance our understanding of the IgH phenotype by exploring the intracellular chiral metabolome.Materials and methodsLeukemia cells were isolated from the bone marrow of BCP-ALL pediatric patients at diagnosis. The samples’ metabolome and transcriptome were characterized using untargeted chiral metabolomic and next-generation sequencing transcriptomic analyses.ResultsFor the first time D- amino acids were identified in the leukemic cells’ intracellular metabolome from the bone marrow niche. Chiral metabolic signatures at diagnosis was indicative of a resistant phenotype. Through integrated network analysis and Pearson correlation, confirmation was obtained regarding the association of the IgH phenotype with several genes linked to poor prognosis.ConclusionThe findings of this study have contributed to the understanding that the chiral metabolome plays a role in the poor prognosis observed in an exceptionally rare patient cohort. The findings include elevated D-amino acid incorporation in the IgH group, the emergence of several unknown, potentially enantiomeric, metabolites, and insights into metabolic pathways that all warrant further exploration.

The role of emotions in collective responses to in-group norm violations: the case of university’s sensitivity to the natural environment norm

AbstractThe primary objective of this study was to examine the influence of perceptions of environmental in-group norm violations and the associated emotions on the level of support for environmental social movements. Particularly, we examined the association between collective action intentions and the emotions of anger, disgust, guilt, and pride elicited in response to the violation of in-group pro-environmental norms. There were 221 undergraduate participants (154 females, 62 males, 5 non-binary) studying at a Turkish state university, where preserving on-campus environment is perceived as the norm. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two experimental conditions in which on-campus environmental norms were violated or adopted by their peers (i.e., in-group members). Then, their perceptions of norm-violation, emotions about their peers’ on-campus environmental behaviors, and collective action intentions in improving campus’s environmental circumstances were measured. We used structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized links between the study variables. Our findings revealed that participants exhibited high levels of norm violation anger, guilt, and disgust and low levels of pride when their peers were presented as polluters. Only anger and pride were found to be influential in motivating intentions for collective actions. Norm violation perception by itself was not instrumental in mobilizing individuals for the sake of the environment. When coupled with feelings of anger and pride, its association with endorsing intentions for environmental collective action became significant. The current findings shed light on the emotions associated with norm violation and their potential to foster pro-environmental collective action.

Advanced statistical approaches for predicting pain after pediatric thoracotomy: a cross-sectional study using zero-inflated and Poisson models

BackgroundThoracotomy is one of the surgical procedures most burdened by chronic post-operative pain. There is poor evidence regarding the possibility that even in pediatric patients, thoracotomy can be followed by post-operative pain. The primary objective of this analysis is to identify associations with home pain therapy, pain intensity, and possible protective factors acting on chronic pain in this population.MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù IRCCS. The study included pediatric patients undergoing thoracotomy. For statistical analyses, a logistic model and a zero-inflated strategy were implemented to explore associations and predict factors related to home-based analgesic therapy and pain intensity.ResultsGender and age were identified as significant factors in the assignment of home therapy, with males having over seven times the risk compared to females (OR = 7.06, 95% CI = [2.11, 29.7]). At the last measurement, pain intensity was positively associated with age and the number of pain events during the week.ConclusionsThe study highlights significant factors influencing post-thoracotomy pain management in pediatric patients. These findings underscore the importance of tailored pain management strategies that consider gender and age to improve post-operative care and outcomes in pediatric thoracotomy patients.

Scientific misconduct responsibility attribution: An empirical study on byline position and team identity in Chinese medical papers.

The primary objective of this inquiry was to explore the nexus between authorship attribution in medical literature and accountability for scientific impropriety while assessing the influence of authorial multiplicity on the severity of sanctions imposed. Probit regression models were employed to scrutinize the impact of authorship on assuming accountability for scientific misconduct, and unordered multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine the influence of authorship and the number of bylines on the severity of punitive measures. First authors and corresponding authors were significantly more likely to be liable for scientific misconduct than other authors and were more likely to be penalized particularly severely. Furthermore, a negative correlation was observed between the number of authors' affiliations and the severity of punitive measures. Authorship exerts a pronounced influence on the attribution of accountability in scientific research misconduct, particularly evident in the heightened risk of severe penalties confronting first and corresponding authors owing to their principal roles. Hence, scientific research institutions and journals must delineate authorship specifications meticulously, ascertain authors' contributions judiciously, bolster initiatives aimed at fostering scientific research integrity, and uphold an environment conducive for robust scientific inquiry.

Apelin-13 administration allows for norepinephrine sparing in a rat model of cecal ligation and puncture-induced septic shock

BackgroundInfusion of exogenous catecholamines (i.e., norepinephrine [NE] and dobutamine) is a recommended treatment for septic shock with myocardial dysfunction. However, sustained catecholamine infusion is linked to cardiac toxicity and impaired responsiveness. Several pre-clinical and clinical studies have investigated the use of alternative vasopressors in the treatment of septic shock, with limited benefits and generally no effect on mortality. Apelin-13 (APL-13) is an endogenous positive inotrope and vasoactive peptide and has been demonstrated cardioprotective with vasomodulator and sparing life effects in animal models of septic shock. A primary objective of this study was to evaluate the NE-sparing effect of APL-13 infusion in an experimental sepsis-induced hypotension.MethodsFor this goal, sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in male rats and the arterial blood pressure (BP) monitored continuously via a carotid catheter. Monitoring, fluid resuscitation and experimental treatments were performed on conscious animals. Based on pilot assays, normal saline fluid resuscitation (2.5 mL/Kg/h) was initiated 3 h post-CLP and maintained up to the endpoint. Thus, titrated doses of NE, with or without fixed-doses of APL-13 or the apelin receptor antagonist F13A co-infusion were started when 20% decrease of systolic BP (SBP) from baseline was achieved, to restore SBP values ≥ 115 ± 1.5 mmHg (baseline average ± SEM).ResultsA reduction in mean NE dose was observed with APL-13 but not F13A co-infusion at pre-determined treatment time of 4.5 ± 0.5 h (17.37 ± 1.74 µg/Kg/h [APL-13] vs. 25.64 ± 2.61 µg/Kg/h [Control NE] vs. 28.60 ± 4.79 µg/Kg/min [F13A], P = 0.0491). A 60% decrease in NE infusion rate over time was observed with APL-13 co-infusion, (p = 0.008 vs NE alone), while F13A co-infusion increased the NE infusion rate over time by 218% (p = 0.003 vs NE + APL-13). Associated improvements in cardiac function are likely mediated by (i) enhanced left ventricular end-diastolic volume (0.18 ± 0.02 mL [Control NE] vs. 0.30 ± 0.03 mL [APL-13], P = 0.0051), stroke volume (0.11 ± 0.01 mL [Control NE] vs. 0.21 ± 0.01 mL [APL-13], P < 0.001) and cardiac output (67.57 ± 8.63 mL/min [Control NE] vs. 112.20 ± 8.53 mL/min [APL-13], P = 0.0036), and (ii) a reduced effective arterial elastance (920.6 ± 81.4 mmHg/mL/min [Control NE] vs. 497.633.44 mmHg/mL/min. [APL-13], P = 0.0002). APL-13 administration was also associated with a decrease in lactate levels compared to animals only receiving NE (7.08 ± 0.40 [Control NE] vs. 4.78 ± 0.60 [APL-13], P < 0.01).ConclusionAPL-13 exhibits NE-sparing benefits in the treatment of sepsis-induced shock, potentially reducing deleterious effects of prolonged exogenous catecholamine administration.

Initiation of a novel text messaging system in total knee and hip arthroplasty

BackgroundThe primary objective of this study was to investigate whether using a novel text messaging system improves patient overall satisfaction compared to standard care. Secondary objectives included assessing the impact of the text messaging system on decreasing narcotic usage, the number of emergency department visits, the range of flexion and extension, and number of telephone calls to the surgeon’s office.MethodsWe enrolled 217 patients to either receive informative text messages (text messaging group, n = 86) or no additional text messages (conventional group, n = 131). Patients self-reported results on a questionnaire at the 6-week follow-up regarding the primary and secondary objectives. The active range of motion of total knee arthroplasty patients was recorded by the surgeon or treating physiotherapist.ResultsThere was no significant difference in overall satisfaction (P = 0.644), narcotic cessation (P = 0.185), range of motion (Flexion P = 0.521; Extension P = 0.515), and emergency department visits (P = 0.650) between the two groups. There was a statistically significant decrease in surgeon office calls favoring the text messaging group (P = 0.029). A subgroup analysis revealed that the statistical difference was mainly in the TKA group (P = 0.046).ConclusionsA novel text messaging system may help reduce the work burden by decreasing telephone calls to the surgeon’s office. While satisfaction, narcotic usage, emergency department visits, and range of motion did not significantly differ, patients endorsed the system for friends/family.

Pregnancy outcome in subclinical hypothyroidism with and without thyroid peroxidase antibodies-a prospective cohort study.

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in pregnancy is associated with adverse foetomaternal outcomes. The literature is scarce with respect to maternal and perinatal outcomes in women with mild SCH (TSH levels between 2.5-4 mIU/L). The primary objective of the study was to compare the pregnancy outcome between SCH and euthyroid women. The secondary objectives were to find out the proportion of women with SCH having thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and to see the effect of TPOAb positivity on foetomaternal outcomes. A total of 178 pregnant women were recruited in the first trimester, and those with TSH between 0.1 and 2.4 mIU/L were considered as euthyroid and 2.5-4mIU/L were labelled as SCH. Women with SCH underwent testing for TPOAb. All women were followed until delivery, and foetomaternal outcomes were assessed. Amongst SCH group, there was a significantly higher proportion of overweight and obese women (76/91 (83.51%) vs 59/87 (68%), p = 0.031). The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission was higher with adjusted odds ratio of 3.24 (1.41-7.43) in women with SCH as compared to euthyroid women. Otherwise, there was no difference in foetomaternal outcomes between the two groups. The proportion of gestational diabetes mellitus, intrauterine growth retardation and still birth were higher in SCH women with TPOAb as compared to euthyroid. Amongst SCH women, the proportion of induced labour was lower (aOR:0.27 (0.08-0.93) whereas the proportion of stillbirth and low APGAR scores were higher in TPOAb-positive women with a statistically significant difference and adjusted odds ratio (aOR:20.18 (1.84-220.83)) and (aOR:4.77 (1.06-21.3)), respectively, when compared to TPOAb-negative women. There appears to be no difference in pregnancy outcomes between women with SCH and euthyroid women except higher NICU admission in SCH group. Future multi-centre large prospective studies are required to understand better about the pregnancy outcomes in these women.

Victimization and Perpetration of Online Dating Violence and Emotional Dependence by Gender among University Students in Ecuador

The present study investigates the roles of online dating violence and emotional dependence within the context of interpersonal relationships. The primary objective of this research is to analyze the perpetration and victimization of online dating violence and emotional dependence among men and women. Utilizing a quantitative approach with a descriptive and explanatory focus, this research employed a non-experimental cross-sectional design. A sample comprising 3202 university students completed the Dating Online Abuse Scale (DOAS) and the Emotional Dependence Questionnaire (EDQ). Statistical analyses, including Student’s t-test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and simple linear regressions, were conducted. Significant gender differences (p &lt; 0.01) emerged concerning both victimization and perpetration of online dating violence. Furthermore, a noteworthy association (p &lt; 0.01) was observed between online dating violence and emotional dependence, with the latter serving as a predictive factor for online dating violence across genders.

Examining Clinical Practice and Short-Term Results in Ventral Hernia Repair

Background and Objectives: This prospective observational study conducted at Parul Sevashram Hospital, Vadodara aimed to examine the diversity in surgical techniques used for primary and incisional ventral hernia repair (VHR). Methods: Twenty-five elective VHR patients treated from January 1, 2023, to March 31, 2023, were enrolled. Patients were monitored for 90 days post-surgery. Exclusion criteria included patients under 18 years old and those undergoing emergency surgeries. The primary objective was to compare surgical approaches between primary and incisional hernia repairs. Secondary objectives focused on intraoperative procedures such as mesh selection, fixation techniques, and drain placement, as well as evaluating postoperative outcomes at 3 months, including infection rates, surgical site issues, mortality, and readmission rates within 90 days. Results: Data from 25 patients were analysed: 14 (58%) had primary hernias (PH) and 11 (42%) had incisional hernias (IH), including 1 (9.09%) recurrent case. – PH Group: Procedures included 6 (42.85%) open Onlay, 4 (28.57%) open Sublay, 1 (7.14%) intraperitoneal Onlay meshplasty (IPOM), and 3 (21.42%) suture repairs. Complications: 7% seroma, 0% surgical site infection (SSI), 0% recurrence. – IH Group: Procedures included 7 (63.63%) open Onlay, 3 (27.3%) open Sublay, and 1 (9.09%) suture repair. Complications: 9% seroma, 9% hematoma, 0% SSI, 9% wound sinus, 0% recurrence. Conclusion: Onlay meshplasty emerged as the predominant procedure for both primary and incisional hernias. However, open Sublay repair showed promising results with fewer seroma-related complications. Standardizing guidelines could optimize outcomes in VHR.

Reliable prediction of peak cladding temperature during top reflooding processes: A neural network-based perception-interaction approach

The reliable prediction of peek cladding temperature is crucial for heat transfer and reactor security when large break loss of coolant accident (LBLOCA) happens. This study proposes a neural network-based Perception-Interaction system to effectively predict and monitor the peak cladding temperature during reflooding phase after LOCA. The system employs a narrow rectangular channel for conducting top reflooding experiments, wherein the peak temperature is predicted by the Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN) algorithm. The system’s primary objective is to accurately predict the peak cladding temperature of various test conditions. First, the special Counter-Current Flow Limitation (CCFL) phenomenon is identified based on the different heat exchange patterns inside the test section. Then the experimental data is collected by LabVIEW and calculated by MATLAB to accurately predict the quench velocity and peak temperature at a specific location by conducting various test conditions. The final experiment results indicate that the built Perception-Interaction system in this article has a high prediction accuracy, with a relative error within 2% between the predicted peak temperatures and actual temperatures.

Investigating drying behavior and quality of Neem leaves using a novel biomass gasification-powered climate control unit with built-in humidity control

Traditional food drying methods, such as open sun drying (OSD) and hot air convective drying (HAC), are widely employed due to their simplicity. However, these methods are inefficient and often yield lower-quality and contaminated products. To address these limitations, we utilize a novel Climate Control Unit (CCU) powered by biomass gasification. The CCU allows independent control of temperature ranging from 0−70°C as well as humidity 10−90%. Our primary objective was to investigate the various drying methods to preserve essential nutrients, reduce power-consumption, and promote environmental-sustainability. In this study, we focused on Neem leaves, a valuable medicinal ingredient, and investigated their drying behaviour and quality using the CCU as a dryer. We implemented diverse control strategies, including temperature control, humidity control, and combined temperature and humidity control. The drying experiments were conducted across different temperature ranges: moderate 45−55°C15−30%, low 25−35°C15−30%, and high 65−75°C15−30%. For comparison, we evaluated the results against OSD and HAC. Next, we assessed various thin-layer drying models to describe the optimal drying kinetics of Neem leaves. Furthermore, we focus on quality aspects, including chlorophyll, phenolic, and tannin content and the thermal performance of the system. Overall, our study elucidates the need to balance drying time and product quality while selecting drying methods. Moderate temperature with humidity control drying appeared to be optimal with a slight compromise on drying time (final moisture content ≈13%drybasisin7hours, and preserving chlorophyll (≈95%) and phenolic content (≈55%)); however, high-temperature drying seemed optimal with a slight compromise on product quality (final moisture content ≈6%in3hours, and preserving chlorophyll (≈70%) and phenolic content (≈45%)). The peak drying efficiency of ≈21%, ≈28%, and ≈38% was obtained during temperature, humidity, and combined temperature and humidity control at moderate temperature drying respectively. The drying cost (≈0.29 $/kg) was observed minimal in case of combined temperature and humidity control. We believe the diverse control strategies reported in this study are expected to find viable applications in drying technology for various perishables, such as wood, tea seasoning, and processing in leather industries, among others.

CGAS-STING pathway in systemic lupus erythematosus: biological implications and therapeutic opportunities.

The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway has been identified as a significant modulator of inflammation in various clinical contexts, including infection, cellular stress, and tissue injury. The extensive participation of the cGAS-STING pathway can be attributed to its ability to detect and control the cellular reaction to DNAs originating from both microorganisms and hosts. These DNAs are well recognized as molecules linked with potential risks. At physiological levels, the STING signaling system exhibits protective effects. However, prolonged stimulation of this pathway contributes to autoimmune disorder pathogenesis. The present paper provides an overview of the activation mechanism of the cGAS-STING signaling pathways and their associated significant functions, as well as therapeutic interventions in the context of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The primary objective is to enhance our comprehension of SLE and facilitate more effective diagnosis and treatment strategies for this condition.

Towards Design Optimization of Compliant Mechanisms: A Hybrid Pseudo-Rigid-Body Model–Finite Element Method Approach and an Accurate Empirical Compliance Equation for Circular Flexure Hinges

Innovative designs such as morphing wings and terrain adaptive landing systems are examples of biomimicry and innovations inspired by nature, which are actively being investigated by aerospace designers. Morphing wing designs based on Variable Geometry Truss Manipulators (VGTMs) and articulated helicopter robotic landing gear (RLG) have drawn a great deal of attention from industry. Compliant mechanisms have become increasingly popular due to their advantages over conventional rigid-body systems, and the research team led by the second author at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) has set their long-term goal to be exploiting these systems in the above aerospace applications. To gain a deeper insight into the design and optimization of compliant mechanisms and their potential application as alternatives to VGTM and RLG systems, this study conducted a thorough analysis of the design of flexible hinges, and single-, four-, and multi-bar configurations as a part of more complex, flexible mechanisms. The investigation highlighted the flexibility and compliance of mechanisms incorporating circular flexure hinges (CFHs), showcasing their capacity to withstand forces and moments. Despite a discrepancy between the results obtained from previously published Pseudo-Rigid-Body Model (PRBM) equations and FEM-based analyses, the mechanisms exhibited predictable linear behavior and acceptable fatigue testing results, affirming their suitability for diverse applications. While including additional linkages perpendicular to the applied force direction in a compliant mechanism with N vertical linkages led to improved factors of safety, the associated increase in system weight necessitates careful consideration. It is shown herein that, in this case, adding one vertical bar increased the safety factor by 100N percent. The present study also addressed solutions for the precise modeling of CFHs through the derivation of an empirical polynomial torsional stiffness/compliance equation related to geometric dimensions and material properties. The effectiveness of the presented empirical polynomial compliance equation was validated against FEA results, revealing a generally accurate prediction with an average error of 1.74%. It is expected that the present investigation will open new avenues to higher precision in the design of CFHs, ensuring reliability and efficiency in various practical applications, and enhancing the optimization design of compliant mechanisms comprised of such hinges. A specific focus was put on ABS plastic and aluminum alloy 7075, as they are the materials of choice for non-load-bearing and load-bearing structural components, respectively.

Batil and Fasid Marriages under Presidential Decree 1083 as practiced by Meranao Marriages in Tamparan, Lanao del Sur

This study was purposefully undertaken to explore and document the occurrences of batil and fasid marriages under Presidential Decree 1083, specifically within the context of Meranaw marriages in Tamparan, Lanao del Sur. The primary objective of this research was to address key inquiries, seeking comprehensive insights into the following questions: What are the common batil and fasid marriage practices and nature? What is the understanding of the respondents of the nature of these marriages and its acceptability? What are their opinions regarding the topic? What are the observable effects of these marriages? What are the reasons for its prevalent occurrence? and what are the remedies for its mitigation? To seek answers for these mentioned problems, an Interview Guide Questionnaire was utilised in order to gather data from the four selected respondents under the Local Government Unit of Tamparan, Lanao del Sur. The data were gathered using experiential learning method and were manually encoded. The findings showed that for the first problem, despite being briefed on the concept, respondents assert the absence of "batil" practices in the community. For the second problem, respondents, including those knowledgeable about Islamic principles, Taritib, and Igma, collectively assert that adherence to these cultural and traditional norms is crucial. As for the third problem, one respondent strongly disapproves of such marriages, emphasizing Allah's prohibition of wrongdoing and the Qur'an's guidance. Another respondent highlights that batil and fasid marriages are infrequent. Additionally, a respondent emphasizes the importance of adhering to Islam's optimal laws. The fourth problem’s findings were that more respondents agree that these marriages have adverse effects, causing displeasure to Allah and diminishing life's blessings, as emphasized in Qur'anic verses promoting forgiveness. The fifth problem’s findings were attributed it to a lack of strong faith, secrecy and politics. The sixth problem’s findings were their suggestions focus on proactive measures, communication, and shared responsibility to effectively manage and reduce these issues. Considering the noteworthy discovery of the research, the subsequent recommendations have been formulated: Provide ethical guidance and religious education; Raise awareness about cultural and traditional norms; Address conflicts arising from Maratabat; Explore the impact of cultural assimilation; Strengthen education on Islamic teachings; Promote unity and collective responsibility; Advocate for proactive prevention of wrongdoing; Organize seminars and utilize social media; Focus on community education and involvement; Encourage discussions and dialogue; Emphasize adherence to Islamic principles; Recognize Tamparan as an Islamic municipality; Address adverse effects and promote well-being; Explore cultural and social dynamics; Address weak faith and cultural conflicts; Investigate political influences; Promote community responsibility; Strengthen the role of Ulama; Conduct seminars and utilize social media; Focus on community education and involvement