bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bi-Objective Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming Model for Low Carbon Location-Inventory-Routing Problem with Time Windows and Customer Satisfaction
Authors: Liu Lihua , He Aneng , Tian Tian , Lee Lai Soon , Seow Hsin-Vonn
Published: July 2024

In order to support a low-carbon economy and manage market competition, location–inventory–routing logistics management must play a crucial role to minimize carbon emissions while maximizing customer satisfaction. This paper proposes a bi-objective mixed-integer nonlinear programming model with time window constraints that satisfies the normal distribution of stochastic customer demand. The proposed model aims to find Pareto optimal solutions for total cost minimization and customer satisfaction maximization. An improved non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (IMNSGA-II) with an elite strategy is developed to solve the model. The model considers cost factors, ensuring that out-of-stock inventory is not allowed. Factors such as a carbon trading mechanism and random variables to address customer needs are also included. An entropy weight method is used to derive the total cost, which is comprised of fixed costs, transportation costs, inventory costs, punishment costs, and the weight of carbon emissions costs. The IMNSGA-II produces the Pareto optimal solution set, and an entropy–TOPSIS method is used to generate an objective ranking of the solution set for decision-makers. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis is performed to evaluate the influence of carbon pricing on carbon emissions and customer satisfaction.
Tightly-Secure Two-Tier Signatures on Code-Based Digital Signatures with Chameleon Hash Functions
Authors: Wang Yong , Ismail Eddie Shahril
Published: July 2024

In the current landscape where quantum algorithms pose a significant threat to conventional digital signature algorithms, code-based digital signature algorithms have emerged as the primary focus of ongoing research in post-quantum cryptography. Digital signatures play a pivotal role in ensuring non-repudiation and authentication, making them an indispensable cryptographic technique. The vulnerability of most digital signature algorithms to quantum attacks have prompted a significant surge in research on code-based digital signature algorithms, which have emerged as a prominent field within post-quantum cryptography. There are generally three distinct approaches to constructing code-based digital signature algorithms: (1) Developing an algorithm that follows the inverse process of the code-based public-key encryption algorithm; (2) Utilizing zero-knowledge identification algorithms in conjunction with the Fiat–Shamir paradigm to formulate a signature algorithm; (3) Constructing a specialized subset of the syndrome space as the foundation for the digital signature algorithm. Chameleon Signature is a non-interactive signature that operates on the hash and signature paradigm, exhibiting comparable efficiency to conventional schemes. Its distinct advantage lies in the fact that the owner of the public key does not necessarily require access to the corresponding secret key within the Chameleon hash algorithm. Notably, Chameleon signatures possess an inherent characteristic of non-transferability, with their validity ascertainable solely by designated recipients. This paper introduces the first Chameleon hash function based on both KKS and HFE schemes, showcasing its superiority over traditional schemes through rank metrics and big fields for enhanced security. The deployment of Chameleon hash functions within hash-and-sign signature schemes introduces a nuanced layer of security and verification flexibility. This study elucidates the implications of integrating Chameleon hash functions into the recipient’s public key infrastructure, highlighting the dual capability it affords authorized parties for secure and adaptable verification processes, alongside mechanisms for the detection of unauthorized alterations.
New Trends in Applying LRM to Nonlinear Ill-Posed Equations
Authors: George Santhosh , Sadananda Ramya , Padikkal Jidesh , Kunnarath Ajil , Argyros Ioannis K.
Published: July 2024

Tautenhahn (2002) studied the Lavrentiev regularization method (LRM) to approximate a stable solution for the ill-posed nonlinear equation κ(u)=v, where κ:D(κ)⊆X⟶X is a nonlinear monotone operator and X is a Hilbert space. The operator in the example used in Tautenhahn’s paper was not a monotone operator. So, the following question arises. Can we use LRM for ill-posed nonlinear equations when the involved operator is not monotone? This paper provides a sufficient condition to employ the Lavrentiev regularization technique to such equations whenever the operator involved is non-monotone. Under certain assumptions, the error analysis and adaptive parameter choice strategy for the method are discussed. Moreover, the developed theory is applied to two well-known ill-posed problems—inverse gravimetry and growth law problems.
Conventional and Novel Inflammatory Biomarkers in Chronic Heart Failure Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Vercek Gregor , Jug Borut , Novakovic Marko , Antonic Miha , Djordjevic Anze , Ksela Jus
Published: July 2024

(1) Background and Objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality both in the general population and heart failure patients. Inflammation may promote the initiation, maintenance and perpetuation of AF, but the impact of inflammatory molecular signaling on the association between AF and heart failure remains elusive. (2) Materials and Methods: In 111 patients with chronic stable heart failure, baseline values of conventional (IL-6 and hsCRP) and selected novel inflammatory biomarkers (IL-10, IL-6/IL-10 ratio, orosomucoid and endocan) were determined. Inflammatory biomarkers were compared with respect to the presenting cardiac rhythm. (3) Results: Patients aged below 75 years with AF had significantly higher values of IL-6 and IL-6/IL-10 ratio; IL-6 levels were a significant predictor of AF in both univariate (OR 1.175; 95%CI 1.013–1.363; p = 0.034) and multivariate logistic regression analysis when accounting for other inflammatory biomarkers (OR 1.327; 95% CI 1.068–1.650; p = 0.011). Conversely, there was no association between other novel inflammatory biomarkers and AF. (4) Conclusions: IL-6 levels and the IL-6/IL-10 ratio are associated with AF in patients with chronic stable heart failure under the age of 75 years, suggesting that inflammatory molecular signaling may play a role in the development of AF in the heart failure population.
An Overview of Cardiovascular Risk in Pituitary Disorders
Authors: Ntali Georgia , Markussis Vyron , Chrisoulidou Alexandra
Published: July 2024

Cardiovascular comorbidities owing to hormonal excess or deficiency are the main cause of mortality in patients with pituitary disorders. In patients with Cushing’s Disease, there is an increased prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and/or risk factors including visceral obesity, insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension, dyslipidaemia, hypercoagulability as well as structural and functional changes in the heart, like cardiac hypertrophy and left ventricle (LV) dysfunction. Notably, these demonstrate limited reversibility even after remission. Furthermore, patients with acromegaly may manifest insulin resistance but also structural and functional heart changes, also known as “acromegalic cardiomyopathy”. Patients with prolactinomas demonstrate an aggravation of metabolic parameters, obesity, dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism as well as endothelial dysfunction. Hypopituitarism and conventional hormonal replacement therapy may also contribute to an unhealthy metabolic status, which promotes atherosclerosis and may lead to premature mortality. This review discusses the literature on cardiovascular risk in patients with pituitary disorders to increase physician awareness regarding this aspect of management in patients with pituitary disorders.
Impact of Malocclusions on Periodontopathogenic Bacterial Load and Progression of Periodontal Disease: A Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Albu Ştefan-Dimitrie , Suciu Ioana , Albu Cristina-Crenguţa , Dragomirescu Anca-Oana , Ionescu Ecaterina
Published: July 2024

Background: (1) Periodontal disease (PD) is a globally prevalent chronic inflammatory condition, exacerbated by the dysbiosis of the oral microbiota. This study aims to evaluate the bacterial load of specific periodontopathogenic bacteria in patients with malocclusions (MAL) compared to those without. (2) Methods: Conducted at the “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, this pilot study involved two groups: patients with MAL and PD, and patients with PD but without MAL. We included 20 patients: 10 with MAL (9 with crowding and 1 with an open bite) and 10 without MAL. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected for bacterial DNA extraction and quantified bacterial load using real-time PCR, focusing on 12 periodontopathogenic bacteria across different complexity classes. (3) Results: The study identified significantly higher concentrations of Treponema denticola (p = 0.023, median = 4.32, IQR = 2.76–5.53 vs. median = 1.93, IQR = 0–3.19), Tannerella forsythia (p = 0.020, mean = 6.04 ± 0.72 vs. mean = 4.4 ± 1.89) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (p = 0.002, median = 5.64, IQR = 4.94–5.98 vs. median = 2.48, IQR = 0–4.05) in patients with MAL compared to those without. This suggests that MAL contributes to an environment conducive to the proliferation of specific pathogens, potentially accelerating PD progression. Additionally, Eikenella corrodens (p = 0.040, mean = 4.55 ± 1.02 vs. mean = 3.23 ± 1.56), Campylobacter rectus (p < 0.001, mean = 4.2 ± 0.56 vs. mean = 1.8 ± 1.51), Prevotella intermedia (p = 0.043, median = 5.04, IQR = 0–5.49 vs. median = 0, IQR = 0–3.39), Capnocytophaga sputigena (p = 0.011, median = 5.91, IQR = 5.47–6.17 vs. median = 4.63, IQR = 3.83–5.64), and Capnocytophaga gingivalis (p = 0.007, median = 5.87, IQR = 5.34–6.03 vs. median = 4.4, IQR = 3.5–5.71) also showed elevated concentrations, indicating the broad impacts of MAL on oral microbial profiles. (4) Conclusions: The findings demonstrate a significant relationship between MAL and increased bacterial loads, underscoring the need for its integration in managing PD. Future research should expand demographic diversity and employ longitudinal designs to better understand the causative mechanisms at play.
Biological Characteristics, Artificial Domestication Conditions Optimization, and Bioactive Components of Beauveria caledonica
Authors: Cao Wang , Yu Changxia , Zhao Yan , Lin Qunying , Deng Chunying , Li Chuanhua
Published: July 2024

In this study, one strain of Beauveria caledonica was isolated from wild fruiting bodies collected from Guizhou Province, China, and its species identification, biological characteristics, domestication, and cultivation methods were studied along with polysaccharide and adenosine content analysis. The mycelia were identified by ITS sequencing, and the fruiting bodies of B. caledonica were domestically cultivated for the first time using wheat and rice as basic cultivation media. The carbon sources, nitrogen sources, cultivation temperatures, and pH for mycelial growth were optimized through single-factor experiments and response surface methodology (RSM) experiments. The polysaccharide content was detected by the phenol–sulfuric acid method, and the adenosine content was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results confirmed that the identified mycelia were B. caledonica. The optimum medium for solid culture was 25.8 g/L glycerol, 10.9 g/L yeast extract, 1 g/L MgSO4·7H2O, 1 g/L KH2PO4, 10 mg/L vitamin B1, and 20 g/L agar; the optimum pH was 6.5, and the optimum culture temperature was 25 °C. The optimal liquid culture medium was 26.2 g/L glycerol, 11.1 g/L yeast extract, 1 g/L MgSO4·7H2O, 1 g/L KH2PO4, and 10 mg/L vitamin B1; the mycelia grew well at pH 6.6 and 25 °C. The average biological efficiencies of fruiting bodies on wheat and rice as culture media were 1.880% and 2.115%, respectively; the polysaccharide contents of fruiting bodies on the two media were 6.635% and 9.264%, respectively, while the adenosine contents were 0.145% and 0.150%, respectively. This study provides a valuable reference for further artificial cultivation and utilization of B. caledonica by investigating its biological characteristics, cultivation conditions for artificial domestication, and polysaccharide and adenosine contents in cultivated fruiting bodies.
Breaking the Cycle: A Yeast Mannan-Rich Fraction Beneficially Modulates Egg Quality and the Antimicrobial Resistome Associated with Layer Hen Caecal Microbiomes under Commercial Conditions
Authors: Corrigan Aoife , McCooey Paula , Taylor-Pickard Jules , Stockdale Stephen , Murphy Richard
Published: July 2024

Antibiotics and antibiotic growth promoters have been extensively employed in poultry farming to enhance growth performance, maintain bird health, improve nutrient uptake efficiency, and mitigate enteric diseases at both sub-therapeutic and therapeutic doses. However, the extensive use of antimicrobials in poultry farming has led to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in microbial reservoirs, representing a significant global public health concern. In response, non-antibiotic dietary interventions, such as yeast mannan-rich fraction (MRF), have emerged as a promising alternative to modulate the gut microbiota and combat the AMR crisis. This study investigated whether a yeast mannan-rich fraction containing feed supplement impacted the performance of laying hens, their microbiomes, and the associated carriage of antimicrobial resistance genes under commercial conditions. High-throughput DNA sequencing was utilised to profile the bacterial community and assess changes in the antibiotic resistance genomes detected in the metagenome, the “resistome”, in response to MRF supplementation. It was found that supplementation favourably influenced laying hen performance and microbial composition. Notably, there was a compositional shift in the MRF supplemented group associated with a lower relative abundance of pathobionts, e.g., Escherichia, Brachyspira and Trueperella, and their AMR-encoded genes, relative to beneficial microbes. Overall, the findings further demonstrate the ability of prebiotics to improve laying hen performance through changes associated with their microbiome and resistome.
Lacustrine Environmental Perturbations during the Early Jurassic in the Qiangtang Basin, Northern Tibet
Authors: Zhang Haowei , Wang Jian , Ahmed Mohamed Saad , Fu Xiugen , Shen Lijun
Published: July 2024

The Early Jurassic was primarily a greenhouse phase in Earth’s history. Previous studies have predominantly focused on marine strata in the Tethyan Ocean, but continental records outside of Europe are still poorly understood, which has hindered a thorough understanding of its climate dynamics. To address this gap, organic, inorganic, and isotope geochemical analyses, along with mineralogical and sedimentological assessments, were conducted on samples from the Quemo Co Formation of well QZ-16 in the Qiangtang Basin (Eastern Tethys). This study aimed to investigate carbon cycle perturbations and consequences of redox conditions and paleosalinity within a lacustrine system during the Early Jurassic. The carbon isotope profile of well QZ-16 exhibited a long-term negative excursion of ca. −3.83‰ in lacustrine sediments, with relatively heavy δ13Corg values and small excursion magnitudes. Enhanced terrigenous input, as indicated by detrital proxies such as Si/Al, Ti/Al, and Zr/Al, was driven by accelerated continental weathering during the carbon isotope excursions. The presence of coarse-grained, pelitic siltstone deposits coincided with the onset of these negative carbon isotope excursions. Sr/Ba ratios (0.05–3.64, avg. 0.73) suggest a brackish to freshwater salinity regime within the third member, implying that the deposition of the Quemo Co Formation was influenced by both freshwater and seawater inputs. Most enrichment factors (VEF, ZnEF, NiEF) having a value below 1.0 and Corg/P ratios less than 50 indicate that the lacustrine environment was characterized by predominantly oxidizing conditions, particularly during the early Toarcian negative carbon isotope excursion (T-NCIE). Despite the record of the T-NCIE event, enhanced respiration in bottom and pore waters indicates that the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (T-OAE) was absent in this part of the eastern Tethys Ocean. The recorded Early Jurassic environmental settings in the Qiangtang Basin lacustrine system exhibit a close association with the T-CIE event (183 Ma), providing insights into the complex interplay between carbon cycle perturbation, climate, weathering, and biological processes during this greenhouse period.
Soil Fungal Pathogens in Pinus pinaster Mature Reforestation: Silvicultural Treatments Effects
Authors: Martos Iciar , Domínguez-Núñez Jose Alfonso
Published: July 2024

Soil fungal communities play a key role in multiple functions and ecosystem services within forest ecosystems. Today, forest ecosystems are subject to multiple environmental and anthropogenic disturbances (e.g., fire or forest management) that mainly lead to changes in vegetation as well as in plant-soil interactions. Soil pathogens play an important role in controlling plant diversity, ecosystem functions, and human and animal health. In this work we analyzed the response of soil plant pathogenic fungi to forest management in a Pinus pinaster reforestation. We started from an experimental design, in which forest thinning and gap cutting treatments were applied at different intensities and sizes, respectively. The fungal communities of plant pathogens in spring were described, and the effect of the silvicultural treatments was evaluated 5 years after their application, as were the possible relationships between soil plant pathogenic fungal communities and other environmental factors. Only a strong low thinning treatment (35% basal area) was able to generate homogeneous changes in soil pathogenic diversity. In the gaps, only the central position showed significant changes in the soil plant pathogenic fungi community.
In-Fiber Hybrid Structure Sensor Based on the Vernier Effect for Vector Curvature and Temperature Measurement
Authors: Wang Sunde , Zhao Tiantong , Li Baoqun , Du Silun , Li Deqi , Liu Dongmei , Wang Tianshu
Published: July 2024

A vector curvature and temperature sensor based on an in-fiber hybrid microstructure is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The proposed scheme enables the dimensions of the Fabry–Perot and Mach–Zehnder hybrid interferometer to be adjusted for the formation of the Vernier effect by simply changing the length of a single optical fiber. The sensor is fabricated using a fiber Bragg grating (FBG), multimode fiber (MMF), and a single-hole dual-core fiber (SHDCF). The sensor exhibits different curvature sensitivities in four vertical directions, enabling two-dimensional curvature sensing. The temperature and curvature sensitivities of the sensor were enhanced to 100 pm/°C and −25.55 nm/m−1, respectively, and the temperature crosstalk was minimal at −3.9 × 10−3 m−1/°C. This hybrid microstructure sensor technology can be applied to high-sensitivity two-dimensional vector curvature and temperature detection for structural health monitoring of buildings, bridge engineering, and other related fields.
Spatially Variable Ripple and Groove Formation on Gallium Arsenide Using Linear, Radial, and Azimuthal Polarizations of Laser Beam
Authors: Kalnins Kalvis , Kim Vyacheslav V. , Reddy Andra Naresh Kumar , Sarakovskis Anatolijs , Ganeev Rashid A.
Published: July 2024

We demonstrated the linear, radial, and annular ripple formation on the surface of GaAs. The formation of linear ripples was optimized by the number of shots and the fluence of 30 ps, 532 nm pulses. The radial and annular nanoripples were produced under the ablation using doughnut-like beams possessing azimuthal and radial polarizations, respectively. We compare the ripples and grooves formed by a linearly polarized Gaussian beam relative to an annular vector beam. The joint overlap of sub-wavelength grooves with ripples formed by azimuthally and radially polarized beams was reported. The conditions under which the shape of radial and ring-like nano- or micro-relief on the GaAs surface can be modified by modulating the polarization of laser pulse were determined. The resultant surface processing of GaAs using a laser beam with different polarization modes is useful for exploring valuable insights and benefits in different applications.
Analysis of the Effective and Actual Lens Position by Different Formulas. Postoperative Application of a Ray-Tracing-Based Simulated Optical Model
Authors: Gargallo Yebra Diana , Remón Martín Laura , Pérez Escorza Iván , Castro Alonso Francisco Javier
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: This study compares the effective lens position (ELP) and intraocular lens power (IOLP) derived from SRK/T, Hoffer Q, Holladay I, and Haigis formulas with the actual lens position (ALP) and the implanted IOLP after cataract surgery. Additionally, it aims to optimize ALP using a ray-tracing-based simulated optical model to achieve emmetropia. (2) Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 43 eyes implanted with the same monofocal intraocular lens (IOL). Preoperative and postoperative biometric data were collected using the Lenstar LS900. Postoperative measurements included ALP, subjective refraction, and refraction error (RE). Optical simulations (OSLO EDU 6.6.0) were utilized to optimize ALP for emmetropia (ALPIDEAL). (3) Results: Paired t-test results between REOSLO-REOBJ (p-value = 0.660) and REOSLO-RESUB (p-value = 0.789) indicated no significant statistical differences. However, statistically significant differences were found between ALP and ALPIDEAL (p < 0.05), with a difference of −0.04 ± 0.45 mm [ranging from −1.00 to 1.20 mm]. A significant correlation was observed between ΔALP (ΔALP = ALP − ALPIDEAL) and RESUBJ. (4) Conclusions: This customized ray-tracing eye model effectively achieves refractive outcomes similar to those obtained both subjectively and objectively post-surgery. Additionally, it has enabled optical simulations to optimize the IOL position and achieve emmetropia.
Localized Surface Plasmon Resonances of AgAl Alloy Nanoparticles Self-Organized by Annealing of Ag/Al Bilayer Films
Authors: Ntemogiannis Dimitrios , Diamantopoulos Nikolaos C. , Papaggeli Maria , Grammatikopoulos Spyridon , Sigalas Mihail , Poulopoulos Panagiotis
Published: July 2024

Plasmonic applications have traditionally relied on noble metals such as gold (Au) and silver (Ag) for their excellent plasmonic performance in the visible and near-infrared spectrum. However, these metals are costly, scarce, and have limitations such as low stability (Ag) and interband transition losses, which restrict their spectral range. To address these issues, alternative plasmonic materials have been explored. One such material is aluminum (Al), which is inexpensive, abundant, and exhibits remarkable plasmonic properties in the UV region as well as wide tunability. Al is also compatible with complementary metal–oxide semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication processes and is very stable due to its ultrathin native oxide layer. Alloying different metals can combine their advantageous properties, resulting in enhanced tunable optical characteristics. This study investigates the LSPR properties of AgAl alloy nanoparticles grown after the annealing of precursor AgAl bilayer films. Interestingly, LSPRs were also observed in some cases for the as-deposited bilayers. The experimental results were complemented with simulations conducted via the rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA) method. The investigated materials could be potentially useful for applications in energy harvesting or color printing.
Integration of an Autothermal Outer Electrified Reformer Technology for Methanol Production from Biogas: Enhanced Syngas Quality Production and CO2 Capture and Utilization Assessment
Authors: Salano Loretta , Bozzini Marcello M. , Caspani Simone , Bozzano Giulia , Manenti Flavio
Published: July 2024

Biogas has emerged as a valid feedstock for biomethanol production from steam reforming. This study investigates an alternative layout based on an auto-thermal electrified reforming assuming a 1 MW equivalent anaerobic digestion plant as a source for methanol synthesis. The process considers an oxy-steam combustion of biogas and direct carbon sequestration with the presence of a reverse water–gas shift reactor to convert CO2 and H2 produced by a solid oxide electrolyzer cell to syngas. Thermal auto-sufficiency is ensured for the reverse water–gas shift reaction through the biogas oxy-combustion, and steam production is met with the integration of heat network recovery, with an overall process total electrical demand. This work compares the proposed process of electrification with standard biogas reforming and data available from the literature. To compare the results, some key performance indicators have been introduced, showing a carbon impact of only 0.04 kgCO2/kgMeOH for the electrified process compared to 1.38 kgCO2/kgMeOH in the case of biogas reforming technology. The auto-thermal electrified design allows for the recovery of 66.32% of the carbon available in the biogas, while a similar electrified process for syngas production reported in literature reaches only 15.34%. The overall energy impact of the simulated scenarios shows 94% of the total energy demand for the auto-thermal scenario associated with the electrolyzer. Finally, the introduction of the new layout is taken into consideration based on the country’s carbon intensity, proving carbon neutrality for values lower than 75 gCO2/kWh and demonstrating the role of renewable energies in the industrial application of the process.
The Determination of LogP of Anticoagulant Drugs with High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography
Authors: Resztak Matylda , Czyrski Andrzej
Published: July 2024

The lipophilicity of a substance is an important physicochemical parameter for the pharmacological activity of a drug. In the current study, high-performance thin-layer chromatography was applied to determine the LogP values of the following anticoagulant drugs: warfarin, acenocoumarol, clopidogrel, and prasugrel. The mobile phase was a mixture of acetonitrile and water in mixed proportions. The content of acetonitrile varied from 50% to 80% in 5% increments. The partition coefficients were calculated with the regression curve Rm0 = f(LogP) based on the compounds with known lipophilicity. The highest LogP was observed for warfarin and the lowest for prasugrel.
Prevalence of Lower Back Pain in Portuguese Equestrian Riders
Authors: Duarte Carlota , Santos Rute , Fernandes Orlando , Raimundo Armando
Published: July 2024

Lower back pain is prevalent in equestrian athletes, but its prevalence and associated factors are unknown in the Portuguese equestrian population. A questionnaire regarding lower back pain and possible associated factors was answered by 347 respondents. Of the respondents, 214 (61.7%) stated having experienced lower back pain in the past 12 months and therefore completed the Roland Morris disability questionnaire. Among the latter, 63.1% stated that lower back pain impaired their performance. The probability of suffering from lower back pain was higher in individuals with higher weekly riding workloads, who reported equestrianism as their main occupation, and who performed daily stable duties. Considering a Roland Morris disability score of 4 as the cut-off value for dysfunction, this sample had an average score of 5.39 ± 4.42. Individuals who stated equestrianism was their main occupation showed a significantly higher risk (OR = 1.759, p = 0.041) of exhibiting a score ≥ 4 than those who stated equestrianism as a hobby. Age (p = 0.029), body mass index (p = 0.047), and daily performance of stable duties (p = 0.030) were also associated with a higher Roland Morris disability score. Further research is needed to understand the full impacts of lower back pain in Portuguese equestrian athletes.
It Takes a Team—Enhancing Student-Athlete Health and Well-Being through an Interprofessional Approach
Authors: Steins Rebecca , Breitbach Anthony P. , Ross Michael , Ciarlo Erica , Melillo Elena , Brant Olivia
Published: July 2024

Student-athlete well-being is a key objective for individuals working with or for university athletic departments. This paper will describe how a university athletic department used a team approach to enhancing student-athlete health and well-being. The Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) Core Competencies of (1) Values and Ethics; (2) Roles and Responsibilities; (3) Communication; and (4) Teams and Teamwork provide a guiding framework for interprofessional collaboration. (IPC; Interprofessional Education Collaborative, 2023). However, significant barriers exist in implementing IPC in university athletic departments and little research exists on how to overcome these barriers in university athletic departments to enhance student-athlete wellness. To address this gap, this paper will first provide a review of the literature on athlete well-being, followed by an applied section that describes the experience of an interprofessional wellness team (IWT) consisting of a clinical sports psychology doctoral student, a licensed mental health professional, an athletic trainer, and a sports dietitian. A case vignette is used to demonstrate how IPEC core competencies are operationalized by the team to address athlete health and well-being through IPC. Recommendations on the further implementation of IPC centered around student-athlete well-being will be provided.
Associations between Ethylene Oxide Exposure and Liver Function in the US Adult Population
Authors: Li Shanshan , Wang Jinzhou , Lei Dengliang , Peng Dadi , Zong Kezhen , Li Kaili , Wu Zhongjun , Liu Yanyao , Huang Zuotian
Published: July 2024

Background: Ethylene oxide, a reactive epoxy compound, has been widely used in various industries for many years. However, evidence of the combined toxic effects of ethylene oxide exposure on the liver is still lacking. Methods: We analyzed the merged data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2016. Ultimately, 4141 adults aged 18 and over were selected as the sample. We used linear regression to explore the association between blood ethylene oxide and LFT indicators. Results: The weighted linear regression model showed that HbEO is positively correlated with ALP (β = 2.61, 95% CI 1.97, 3.24, p < 0.0001), GGT (β = 5.75, 95% CI 4.46, 7/05, p < 0.0001), ALT (β = 0.50, 95% CI 0.09, 0.90, p = 0.0158), and AST (β = 0.71, 95% CI 0.44, 0.98, p < 0.0001) and negatively correlated with TBIL (β = −0.30, 95% CI −0.43, −0.16, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Ethylene oxide exposure is significantly associated with changes in liver function indicators among adults in the United States. Future work should further examine these relationships.
ConvFormer-KDE: A Long-Term Point–Interval Prediction Framework for PM2.5 Based on Multi-Source Spatial and Temporal Data
Authors: Lin Shaofu , Zhang Yuying , Fei Xingjia , Liu Xiliang , Mei Qiang
Published: July 2024

Accurate long-term PM2.5 prediction is crucial for environmental management and public health. However, previous studies have mainly focused on short-term air quality point predictions, neglecting the importance of accurately predicting the long-term trends of PM2.5 and studying the uncertainty of PM2.5 concentration changes. The traditional approaches have limitations in capturing nonlinear relationships and complex dynamic patterns in time series, and they often overlook the credibility of prediction results in practical applications. Therefore, there is still much room for improvement in long-term prediction of PM2.5. This study proposes a novel long-term point and interval prediction framework for urban air quality based on multi-source spatial and temporal data, which further quantifies the uncertainty and volatility of the prediction based on the accurate PM2.5 point prediction. In this model, firstly, multi-source datasets from multiple monitoring stations are preprocessed. Subsequently, spatial clustering of stations based on POI data is performed to filter out strongly correlated stations, and feature selection is performed to eliminate redundant features. In this paper, the ConvFormer-KDE model is presented, whereby local patterns and short-term dependencies among multivariate variables are mined through a convolutional neural network (CNN), long-term dependencies among time-series data are extracted using the Transformer model, and a direct multi-output strategy is employed to realize the long-term point prediction of PM2.5 concentration. KDE is utilized to derive prediction intervals for PM2.5 concentration at confidence levels of 85%, 90%, and 95%, respectively, reflecting the uncertainty inherent in long-term trends of PM2.5. The performance of ConvFormer-KDE was compared with a list of advanced models. Experimental results showed that ConvFormer-KDE outperformed baseline models in long-term point- and interval-prediction tasks for PM2.5. The ConvFormer-KDE can provide a valuable early warning basis for future PM2.5 changes from the aspects of point and interval prediction.
Comparison of Transgenerational Neurotoxicity between Pristine and Amino-Modified Nanoplastics in C. elegans
Authors: Song Mingxuan , Ruan Qinli , Wang Dayong
Published: July 2024

Increasing evidence has suggested that nanoplastic pollution has become a global concern. More importantly, transgenerational toxicity can be induced by nanoplastics at predicted environmentally relevant doses (ERDs). Considering that amino modification could increase nanoplastic toxicity, we compared transgenerational neurotoxicity between pristine polystyrene nanoparticle (PS-NP) and amino-modified PS-NP (NH2-PS-NP) in Caenorhabditis elegans. At 0.1–10 μg/L, NH2-PS-NP caused more severe transgenerational toxicity on locomotion and neuronal development. Accompanied with a difference in transgenerational neuronal damage, compared to PS-NP (10 μg/L), NH2-PS-NP (10 μg/L) induced more severe transgenerational activation of mec-4, crt-1, itr-1, and tra-3, which are required for the induction of neurodegeneration. Moreover, NH2-PS-NP (10 μg/L) caused more severe transgenerational inhibition in expressions of mpk-1, jnk-1, dbl-1, and daf-7 than PS-NP (10 μg/L), and RNA interference (RNAi) of these genes conferred susceptibility to the toxicity of PS-NP and NH2-PS-NP on locomotion and neuronal development. NH2-PS-NP (10 μg/L) further caused more severe transgenerational activation of germline ligand genes (ins-3, ins-39, daf-28, lin-44, egl-17, efn-3, and lag-2) than PS-NP (10 μg/L), and RNAi of these ligand genes caused resistance to the toxicity of PS-NP and NH2-PS-NP on locomotion and neuronal development. Our results highlighted more severe exposure risk of amino-modified nanoplastics at ERDs in causing transgenerational neurotoxicity in organisms.
The Algorithm of the Two Neutron Monitors for the Analysis of the Rigidity Spectrum Variations of Galactic Cosmic Ray Intensity Flux in Solar Cycle 24
Authors: Iskra Krzysztof , Siluszyk Marek , Wozniak Witold
Published: July 2024

The method of the two neutron monitors was used to analyze the parameters of the rigidity spectrum variations (RSV) of galactic cosmic ray intensity (GCR) flux in solar cycle 24 based on the data from the global network of neutron monitors. This method is an alternative to the least squares method when there are few monitors working stably in a given period, and their use in the least squares method is impossible. Analyses of the changes in exponent γ in the RSV of GCR flux from 2009 to 2019 were studied. The soft RSV (γ = 1.2–1.3) of the GCR flux around the maximum epoch and the hard RSV (γ = 0.6–0.9) around the minimum epoch of solar activity (SA) is the general feature of GCR modulation in the GeV energy scale (5, 50), to which neutron monitors were found to correspond. Therefore, various values of the RSV γ in the considered period show that during the decrease and increase period of SA, the essential changes in the large-scale structure of the heliospheric magnetic field (HMF) fluctuations/turbulence take place. The exponent γ of the RSV of the GCR flux can be considered a significant parameter to investigate the long-period changes in the GCR flux.
Axion-like Particle Effects on Photon Polarization in High-Energy Astrophysics
Authors: Galanti Giorgio
Published: July 2024

In this review, we present a self-contained introduction to axion-like particles (ALPs) with a particular focus on their effects on photon polarization: both theoretical and phenomenological aspects are discussed. We derive the photon survival probability in the presence of photon–ALP interaction, the corresponding final photon degree of linear polarization, and the polarization angle in a wide energy interval. The presented results can be tested by current and planned missions such as IXPE (already operative), eXTP, XL-Calibur, NGXP, XPP in the X-ray band and like COSI (approved to launch), e-ASTROGAM, and AMEGO in the high-energy range. Specifically, we describe ALP-induced polarization effects on several astrophysical sources, such as galaxy clusters, blazars, and gamma-ray bursts, and we discuss their real detectability. In particular, galaxy clusters appear as very good observational targets in this respect. Moreover, in the very-high-energy (VHE) band, we discuss a peculiar ALP signature in photon polarization, in principle capable of proving the ALP existence. Unfortunately, present technologies cannot detect photon polarization up to such high energies, but the observational capability of the latter ALP signature in the VHE band could represent an interesting challenge for the future. As a matter of fact, the aim of this review is to show new ways to make progress in the physics of ALPs, thanks to their effects on photon polarization, a topic that has aroused less interest in the past, but which is now timely with the advent of many new polarimetric missions.
Review of Hybrid Energy Storage Systems for Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Urooj Ahtisham , Nasir Ali
Published: July 2024

Energy storage systems play a crucial role in the overall performance of hybrid electric vehicles. Therefore, the state of the art in energy storage systems for hybrid electric vehicles is discussed in this paper along with appropriate background information for facilitating future research in this domain. Specifically, we compare key parameters such as cost, power density, energy density, cycle life, and response time for various energy storage systems. For energy storage systems employing ultra capacitors, we present characteristics such as cell voltage, cycle life, power density, and energy density. Furthermore, we discuss and evaluate the interconnection topologies for existing energy storage systems. We also discuss the hybrid battery–flywheel energy storage system as well as the mathematical modeling of the battery–ultracapacitor energy storage system. Toward the end, we discuss energy efficient powertrain for hybrid electric vehicles.
A Analisis Kinerja Sistem Distribusi Air Bersih Menggunakan SPSS (Studi Kasus HIPPAM Sejahtera Desa Bakung Kecamatan Kanor Kabupaten Bojonegoro)
Authors: Mushthofa Mushthofa , Munawaroh Siti Rohmatul , Indriani Yulia , Faqih Nasyiin , Roehman Fatchur , Chandrasasi Dian , Nastain
Published: July 2024

Air dibutuhkan  untuk berbagai keperluan, termasuk konsumsi manusia, pertanian, industri, dan kebersihan. Perlindungan dan pengelolaan sumber daya air yang bijak sangat diperlukan untuk menjamin ketersediaan air bersih yang mencukupi bagi semua orang. Pelayanan kebutuhan air bersih di Desa Bakung  dikelola oleh Himpunan Penduduk Pemakai Air Minum (HIPPAM) yang saat ini kurang lebih berjumlah +- 968 sambungan rumah (SR), dan kapasitas reservoar 18
Implementasi Sistem Kalkulasi Berat Dan Iuran Sampah Berbasis Internet Of Things Pada Perumahan Bekasi Jaya Indah
Authors: Muttaqin Abdu Aziz , Chusyairi Ahmad
Published: July 2024

Waste is a complex problem in developing countries like Indonesia, negatively impacting the environment and public health. Bekasi Jaya Indah Housing Estate, Bekasi City, faces the challenge of sub-optimal waste management. One of them is the gap between waste fees and the weight of waste generated, especially from houses with home industry activities. This research aims to improve monitoring efficiency by developing a tool based on firebase technology or user interface. This technology allows real-time access from various locations to monitor environmental conditions. This tool is not only a monitor of environmental conditions, but also a management tool to support better decision making in maintaining environmental stability and safety. The method used is the prototype method with the stages of communication, quick plan, quick design modeling, construction of prototype, and deployment delivery & feedback. This monitoring tool, it is expected that residents, officers, and administrators can easily monitor environmental conditions from various locations. User have the ability to take the necessary response actions quickly based on real-time information obtained from this monitoring tool.
Aplikasi Absensi dan Penjadwalan Berbasis Web di SMA Negeri 1 Pelaihari menggunakan framework Laravel
Authors: Maida Nur , Julianto Veri
Published: July 2024

Pelaihari 1 Public High School, located in Pelaihari District, is one of the educational institutions that supports improving the quality of education. Providing information by students is carried out by collecting the necessary data, then the data is input using Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Word. Apart from that, paper is also used when making attendance. Any existing data is then shared back with teachers and students who need it via WhatsApp. This method is considered less effective due to limited program functions, easy file loss, difficulty in searching for data, and also in terms of time. Therefore, a Web-Based Attendance and Scheduling Application was developed at SMA Negeri 1 Pelaihari using the Laravel Framework. This application is expected to fulfill one of the Admin's tasks in managing data, so that Admins feel it is easier to share information with teachers and students. The features contained in this system include class data, student data, employee data, subject data, schedule data, User data, attendance data, reporting and journal data. This system was developed using a prototype development model, the Laravel framework, and was designed using the Unified Modeling Language (UML) and Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD) models. The programming language used is PHP and the database used is MySQL.
IUPQC for mitigation of electrical power quality in two feeder distribution system
Authors: Gurusidappa Manjula Muddapura , Basavarajappa Veeresha Kallaganguru
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a modified connection for a UPQC to improve the power quality of two feeders in a distribution system is the Interline Unified Power Quality Conditioner (IUPQC). IUPQC specifically aims at the integration of series VSC and Shunt VSC to provide high quality power supply by means current & voltage harmonic elimination and voltage sag/swell compensation in a of two feeders in a distribution system, so that improved power quality can be made available at the point of common coupling. The structure, control and capability of the IUPQC are discussed in this paper. The efficiency of the proposed configuration has been verified through simulation using MATLAB/ SIMULINK.
The 100 most cited articles in hand surgery from 2012–2022: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Neriamparambil Anna J , Antony Joyce , Wijenayake Lahann J
Published: July 2024

Introduction: There has been an increase in the volume of scientific literature over the last decade in the field of hand surgery. The purpose of this bibliometric analysis was to ascertain the articles that have significantly contributed to advancements in hand surgery. Methods: The Web of Science database was used to produce a list of the 100 most cited articles from February 2012 to February 2022. The full text of all articles was carefully examined for further descriptive analysis not limited to subject matter, journal of publication, authorship, institution, country and year of publication. Results: The 100 most cited articles were cited on average 75 times. The most cited article was cited 179 times. Subject matter was not limited to pain management, distal radius fractures and tendon injuries. Source journals were spread across 36 journals, but six prominent journals published 60 per cent of articles. Conclusion: While the measurement of scientific merit is not solely based on bibliometric analysis, this study provides a good representation of substantial work in the last decade.
Concept of Positioning in the Marketing Tools
Authors: Исаева Л.А. , Неяскина Е.В.
Published: July 2024

В статье рассматриваются два подхода, характеризующих предпринимательскую среду. Отраслевой подход является традиционным для оценки предпринимательства и заключается в анализе финансово-хозяйственных показателей фирм и отраслей, учитывающих экономические и финансовые риски. Второй подход концепция позиционирования, которая рассматривает потребителя в системе потребления и является сравнительно новым теоретическим достижением в маркетинговом инструментарии.

The article discusses two approaches characterizing the business environment. The industry approach is traditional for the evaluation of entrepreneurship and consists in the analysis of financial and economic indicators of firms and industries that take into account economic and financial risks. The second approach is the concept of positioning, which considers the consumer in the consumption system and is a relatively new theoretical achievement in marketing tools.
Tax Administration in Terms of Revenue from Value Added Tax to the Budget
Authors: Пономарева Л.Н. , Мухамадеева З.Ф.
Published: July 2024

В статье анализируются проблемы развития косвенного налогообложения. В качестве одного из ведущих косвенных налогов анализируется НДС, который в большей степени пополняет казну государства. Рассматриваются преимущества и недостатки данного налога, а также мероприятия по оптимизации налога с позиции налогоплательщика и меры по контролю за уплатой налога с позиции государства.

The article analyzes some issues of developing indirect taxation. The article provides analysis of value added tax which is regarded as one of the key indirect taxes greatly replenishing the treasury of the state. The advantages and disadvantages of this tax are considered, as well as measures to be taken to optimize the tax from the taxpayers perspectiveand measures to control the payment of tax from the position of the state.
Practice of Using Gift Cards and Certificates in the Development of Accounting and Tax Accounting
Authors: Сибагатуллина Р.М. , Гирфанова И.Н. , Нигматуллина Г.Р. , Кабашова Е.В.
Published: July 2024

Учет подарочных карт вызывает в организациях немалые сложности. В статье раскрыты особенности учета подарочных карт, приобретенных и выпущенных организацией самостоятельно. Также нами описана возможность открытия забалансового счета для учета сертификатов и типовые бухгалтерские записи. Цель исследования состоит в раскрытии сущности и изучении особенностей учета подарочных сертификатов.

Accounting for gift cards causes considerable difficulties in organizations. The article reveals the peculiarities of accounting for gift cards purchased and issued by the organization on their own. We also described the possibility of opening an off-balance sheet account for accounting certificates and standard accounting records. The purpose of the study is to reveal the nature and study the features of accounting gift certificates.