bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evoking, Grounding, and Defining: How Contemporary Scientists Connect Religion, Spirituality, and Aesthetics
Authors: Ritz Bridget , Di Di , Vaidyanathan Brandon
Published: January 2024

Social scientific research challenges stereotypes of scientists as irreligious, on the one hand, and lacking aesthetic sensitivity, on the other. Yet, while some research suggests connections between these domains, the question remains as to whether and how scientists themselves connect their religion or spirituality with their aesthetic experiences in science. Drawing on interviews with 71 biologists and physicists in India, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States, we find three distinct logics by which scientists connect these experiences, which we call “evoking”, “grounding”, and “defining”. We also find some scientists assume a modernist logic on which religion or spirituality and science are seen as separate to explain why they do not experience their religion or spirituality and aesthetic experiences as connected. Our findings enhance our understanding of how personal beliefs can shape and be shaped by professional experiences and suggest opportunities for dialogue between scientists and communities of faith centering aesthetic experience.
Complex Parameter Rao and Wald Tests for Assessing the Bandedness of a Complex-Valued Covariance Matrix
Authors: Zhu Zhenghan
Published: January 2024

Banding the inverse of a covariance matrix has become a popular technique for estimating a covariance matrix from a limited number of samples. It is of interest to provide criteria to determine if a matrix is bandable, as well as to test the bandedness of a matrix. In this paper, we pose the bandedness testing problem as a hypothesis testing task in statistical signal processing. We then derive two detectors, namely the complex Rao test and the complex Wald test, to test the bandedness of a Cholesky-factor matrix of a covariance matrix’s inverse. Furthermore, in many signal processing fields, such as radar and communications, the covariance matrix and its parameters are often complex-valued; thus, it is of interest to focus on complex-valued cases. The first detector is based on the complex parameter Rao test theorem. It does not require the maximum likelihood estimates of unknown parameters under the alternative hypothesis. We also develop the complex parameter Wald test theorem for general cases and derive the complex Wald test statistic for the bandedness testing problem. Numerical examples and computer simulations are given to evaluate and compare the two detectors’ performance. In addition, we show that the two detectors and the generalized likelihood ratio test are equivalent for the important complex Gaussian linear models and provide an analysis of the root cause of the equivalence.
Effects of a 16-Week Training Program with a Pyramidal Intensity Distribution on Recreational Male Cyclists
Authors: Magalhães Pedro M. , Cipriano Flávio , Morais Jorge E. , Bragada José A.
Published: January 2024

Different training intensity distributions (TIDs) have been proposed to improve cycling performance, especially for high-competition athletes. The objectives of this study were to analyze the effect of a 16-week pyramidal training intensity distribution on somatic and power variables in recreational cyclists and to explore the training zone with the greatest impact on performance improvement. The sample consisted of 14 male recreational cyclists aged 41.00 ± 7.29 years of age. A number of somatic variables were measured. During an incremental protocol, power at a 4 mMol·L−1 blood lactate concentration (P4), corresponding power to body mass ratio (P/W P4), and heart rate (HR P4) were also measured. Among the somatic variables, the percentage of fat mass showed the greatest improvement between moments (p < 0.001, d = 0.52). Both P4 (p < 0.001, d = 1.21) and P/W P4 (p < 0.001, d = 1.54) presented a significant increase between moments. The relative improvement in P4 (% P4) showed a significant correlation (Rs = 0.661, p = 0.038) and relationship (R2 = 0.61, p = 0.008) mainly with training zone Z2 (blood lactate levels ≥ 2 and <4 mMol·L−1). It seems that spending more time in Z2 promoted an improvement in both somatic and power variables in recreational cyclists.
Organochlorine Pesticides in Dairy Cows’ Diet and the Carryover into Milk in NW Romania
Authors: Miclean Mirela , Levei Erika Andrea , Cadar Oana
Published: January 2024

Since modern agriculture relies on high volumes of chemical pesticides, monitoring the exposure to these dangerous substances in feed and the food chain is crucial. This study investigates the transfer of organochlorine pesticide (OCP) from water, soil, and feed to milk in free-range dairy cows using the carryover rates (CORs) and biotransfer factors (BTFs) from feed to milk as tools that can be used for human and animal risk assessments. BTFs can predict the transfer of OCPs into milk due to cows’ ingestion of contaminated feed. Samples were collected from ten small-scale dairy cow farms located near Baia Mare city, NW Romania, identified for distributing fresh milk in the local market. After the appropriate extraction was performed, the OCP concentrations were measured by gas chromatography equipped with an electron capture detector and randomly confirmed using mass spectrometry. The most prominent compounds in the soil, feed, and milk samples were hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) isomers and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites. The concentrations of OCPs were lower than the maximum admissible values in feed, water, soil, and milk. The CORs of OCPs varied over four orders of magnitudes, from 0.10% (2,4′–dichlorodiphenylchloroethylene, 2,4′–DDE) to 250% (4,4′–dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, 4,4′–DDT). Similar to CORs, the values of BTFs varied largely, from 0.0001 to 1.408. Additionally, the values higher than the unit for some BTFs could be due to the accumulation and biomagnification of these organochlorine compounds in the animal body. The cows’ dietary exposure was evaluated by the estimated daily intake (EDI), considering the three components of ingestion (feed, water, and soil), and varied in the range of 0.0008–0.3509 µg/day/body weight (bw).
Identifying Active Ageing Policy Needs at the Meso-Level
Authors: Quattrini Sabrina , Principi Andrea , Lucantoni Davide , Socci Marco , Fabbietti Paolo , Giammarchi Cinzia , Riccetti Francesco
Published: January 2024

Active ageing (AA) is recognised as a concept leading to positive benefits for individuals and society; however, its operationalization at the policy level presents challenges. In particular, while AA implies the interplay between macro, meso, and micro levels, the topic of AA policy needs at the meso level is underresearched. In order to increase knowledge in this area, the present study investigated a total of 154 organisations through a self-administered questionnaire in the Italian Marche region. Of these organisations, 111 reported having implemented 192 AA initiatives. The main policy needs identified concern requests for help in planning and sustainability, as well as economic and human resources. The presence of needs at the policy level was associated with the specific AA domain of volunteering and civic engagement and seemed to be present when initiatives dealt with the reduction of inequalities in terms of generational differences and differences in terms of digital skills. To appropriately manage policy needs, those results call for policy action in order to involve representatives of meso-level organisations through co-decisional policy tools and to promote intergenerational programmes in general and in the field of digitalization in particular, given its benefits for both generations.
Façade Greening for Healthy Urban Air: An Umbrella Review on Particulate Matter Reduction, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Spörl Philipp , Trimmel Simone , Haluza Daniela , Sauerbrey Susan , Irrgeher Johanna , Prohaska Thomas , Pitha Ulrike
Published: January 2024

Particulate matter (PM) exposure in urban areas is a continuous threat to human health and requires sustainable solutions for effective reduction. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of façade greening and its effects on PM and to identify knowledge gaps. We systematically screened, analyzed, and re-evaluated previous reviews according to the criteria established for an umbrella review. As a result, this study covers and discusses common measurement methods, influencing factors, the effectiveness of façade greening, leaf characteristics, and plant species from different subtopics. The main findings are that inconsistent measurement methods limit the comparability of the analyzed reviews, and different climatic conditions affecting the use of plant species lead to different international effects. Despite the existing studies reporting a positive effect on the reduction of PM, comparability is difficult due to methodological differences and external influences. Given the complexity, interdisciplinary collaboration with experts is essential to increase the effectiveness of façade greening for PM accumulation for healthy urban air. We suggest that this umbrella review provides a foundation for future research and practical implementations, such as a suitable plant selection or façade design, by integrating the results.
The Potential Impact of Changes in Soil and Climate Conditions on Development of the Herb Layer Vegetation of Public Parks in Krakow (Southern Poland)
Authors: Moszkowicz Łukasz , Krzeptowska-Moszkowicz Izabela , Porada Karolina , Zieliński Miłosz
Published: January 2024

Today, urban greenery is at the center of attention, especially in the context of climate change. Shaped in large part by natural factors, the herb layer of public parks is a part of urban greenery that is the most sensitive to climate and soil condition changes. In this paper, we present a study intended to answer how resilient is the species composition and herb layer structure against the soil and climate condition changes in parks. To this end, we analyzed Ellenberg and Zarzycki’s ecological index numbers for species recorded in different groups in terms of historical-geographical, life forms, prevalence within the flora of Poland, and relationships with different vegetation types (phytoassociation classes) in comparison to the conditions present in parks. It was found that a large part of various species groups showed an optima and ecological tolerance spectra that went beyond the park conditions, indicating that at least some park vegetation can be expected to show resilience to changing conditions. However, changes in temperature and humidity will alter the composition and structure of the park herb layer. The direction of changes in climate and soil conditions can be decisive for herb layer transformation directions. With rising temperatures, humidity can be crucial. Poor soil moisture conditions will promote an increased share of foreign, synanthropic species, while local natural and semi-natural species will disappear. When climate change that leads to a decrease in temperatures is concerned, it is temperature and not humidity that will be the key factor in the transformation of park herb layer species compositions. The herb layer of Krakow’s parks will have the least resilience to changes in conditions within local non-synanthropic species, rare species and geophytes and to some extent also forest and meadow species.
Assessment of Bioenergy Potential from Biomass Waste to Improve Access to Clean Energy for Cooking in Mali
Authors: Segura-Rodríguez Iván , Bhandari Ramchandra
Published: January 2024

A lack of access to clean cooking fuels and technologies in Mali is causing negative health and welfare impacts on the population. There is a need to transition to cleaner cooking systems, and the production of biofuels is one promising solution. In order to successfully use biofuels in Malian households, it is necessary to calculate the sustainable bioenergy potential of the country. The aim of this study, therefore, was to assess this potential to determine if it can meet the cooking energy demand. Statistical data were used to estimate the bioenergy potential from three different biomass resources: crop residues, livestock waste, and municipal solid waste (MSW). Surveys in urban and rural areas in Mali were performed to assess cooking fuel consumption in the residential sector. Bioenergy potential and cooking energy demand were compared regionally to find out if biomass is a feasible substitute for traditional cooking fuels in Mali. It was shown that while there is high biogas potential in most of the regions, urban Bamako has a lack of biomass resources to cover the demand. Therefore, other clean alternatives like electric cooking should be considered for urban areas.
Energy Efficiency and Thermal Comfort Analysis in a Higher Education Building in Brazil
Authors: Barbosa Elisabeti F. T. , Labaki Lucila C. , Castro Adriana P. A. S. , Lopes Felipe S. D.
Published: January 2024

Thermal comfort is extremely important in architecture, especially in environments with more people spending longer time on studies or intellectual activities. This research describes a case study designed to investigate the energy and thermal performance of university buildings as part of the ANEEL programme. Because of this importance and the need to save energy in Brazilian public buildings, ANEEL—the Brazilian Energy Electricity Regulatory Agency—launched a national programme focusing on energy efficiency in public universities in 2016. University offices and classrooms sustain high intellectual effort; thus, environmental comfort is critical for maintaining their users’ physical and mental health. This study included a pre-diagnosis of the performance of the envelope, lighting, and air-conditioning systems and a survey about the quality of the environments from the user’s point of view. The Prescriptive Method of the Brazilian Labelling Program (PBE) for Commercial, Service, and Public Buildings (RTQ-C) was used to assess the building performance. Statistical analysis was applied to correlate the quality and thermal preference of the users, with reference to the predicted mean vote and the predicted percentage of dissatisfied (PMV-PPD). The results showed a high rate of thermal discomfort in both study environments, even when using air conditioning.
Modeling Tetracycline Adsorption onto Blast Furnace Slag Using Statistical and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Rangappa Harsha S. , Mon Phyu Phyu , Herath Indika , Madras Giridhar , Lin Chuxia , Subrahmanyam Challapalli
Published: January 2024

Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) is a primary industrial waste product of iron production, and its improper disposal has been a serious environmental problem. This study aims to modify the GGBS using oxalic acid (GGBS-Ox) for the adsorption of tetracycline (TC) from an aqueous solution. GGBS-Ox was synthesized and characterized via FTIR, XRD SEM, XPS, BET, and DLS. The effects of process parameters, involving initial solution pH, stirring speed, and contact time, are evaluated by utilizing response surface methodology (RSM), artificial neural network (ANN), and random forest (RF) based models. The experimental results indicate that the removal efficiency of TC is significantly affected by the initial pH of the solution. The RSM, ANN, and RF models accurately simulated the experimental data, as indicated by the high coefficient of determination (R2), which was 0.98, 0.95, and 0.98, respectively. Additionally, kinetics, isotherm, and thermodynamic models were evaluated for the adsorption of TC onto GGBS-Ox. The findings of this study demonstrated the utilization of GGBS-Ox as an efficient and sustainable adsorbent for the treatment of TC and can be considered as a potential adsorbent for wastewater treatment.
Unique Constellation of Vascular Anomalies in a Female Cadaver: IVC, Renal Vein, and Left Colic Artery Variation
Authors: Bharani Vishnu , Sidoti Hannah , Titunick Michelle B.
Published: January 2024

Embryological development of the vascular system consists of growth and regression of developing vessels, often resulting in numerous variations. This cadaveric case report describes an individual with a duplicated inferior vena cava accompanied by multiple left accessory renal veins and a superior mesenteric artery-derived left colic artery. These structures may present clinical concerns when physicians are unaware of their presence during even routine surgeries. The 74-year-old female donor was dissected as part of a medical gross anatomy elective course. Anatomy was photographed and measurements were taken. Dissection revealed a duplicated inferior vena cava with a confluence between the right and left inferior venae cavae, known as the preaortic trunk. The left gonadal vein drained directly into the left inferior vena cava, inferior to the vena cava’s junction with the left renal vein. The multiple accessory left renal veins drained into the left inferior vena cava at the level of the primary left renal vein. All three anomalies examined in this donor have the potential to create complications during surgery. Promoting familiarity amongst physicians, particularly radiologists and surgeons, with vascular anomalies can aid in their ability to assess patients and provide better care.
de Broglie, General Covariance and a Geometric Background to Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Hiley Basil , Dennis Glen
Published: January 2024

What is striking about de Broglie’s foundational work on wave–particle dualism is the role played by pseudo-Riemannian geometry in his early thinking. While exploring a fully covariant description of the Klein–Gordon equation, he was led to the revolutionary idea that a variable rest mass was essential. DeWitt later explained that in order to obtain a covariant quantum Hamiltonian, one must supplement the classical Hamiltonian with an additional energy ℏ2Q from which the quantum potential emerges, a potential that Berry has recently shown also arises in classical wave optics. In this paper, we show how these ideas emerge from an essentially geometric structure in which the information normally carried by the wave function is contained within the algebraic description of the geometry itself, within an element of a minimal left ideal. We establish the fundamental importance of conformal symmetry, in which rescaling of the rest mass plays a vital role. Thus, we have the basis for a radically new theory of quantum phenomena based on the process of mass-energy flow.
Application to Activation Functions through Fixed-Circle Problems with Symmetric Contractions
Authors: Anjum Rizwan , Abbas Mujahid , Safdar Hira , Din Muhammad , Zhou Mi , Radenović Stojan
Published: January 2024

In this paper, our main aim is to present innovative fixed-point theorems that provide solutions to the fixed-circle problem with symmetric contractions. We accomplish this by employing operator enrichment techniques within the context of Banach spaces. Furthermore, we demonstrate the practical application of these theorems by showcasing their relevance to the rectified linear unit (ReLU) activation function. By exploring the connection between fixed points and activation functions, our work contributes to a deeper understanding of the behavior and properties of these fundamental mathematical concepts.
Exploring Anisotropic Mechanical Characteristics in 3D-Printed Polymer Biocomposites Filled with Waste Vegetal Fibers
Authors: Wang Honggang , Fu Zhi , Liu Yu , Cheng Ping , Wang Kui , Peng Yong
Published: January 2024

The fiber-filled polymer composite is one of the best materials which provides a symmetrical superior strength and stiffness to structures. With the strengthening of people’s environmental protection and resource reuse consciousness, the development of renewable materials, especially natural fiber-filled polymer composites, is receiving great attention. This study investigated the mechanical properties of polymer composites incorporating waste materials from the food processing industry and agricultural sources. Waste vegetal fiber-filled polymer biocomposites (WVFFPBs) with varying fiber types and 3D printing orientations were systematically fabricated. Subsequently, the tensile tests were executed to comprehensively assess the anisotropic mechanical behaviors of the WVFFPBs. The results demonstrated that WVFFPBs performed excellent anisotropic mechanical properties compared to pristine matrix samples as print orientation changed. As the printing angle increased from 0° to 90°, the tensile mechanical properties of the WVFFPBs displayed a decreasing trend. Moreover, the print orientation–anisotropic mechanical behavior relationship of 3D-printed WVFFPBs was revealed through the analysis of the material manufacturing characteristics and damage features.
The Predicted Potential Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Tuberculosis Epidemic in Tamil Nadu, South India
Authors: Muniyandi Malaisamy , Nagarajan Karikalan , Mathiyazhagan Kavi , Giridharan Prathiksha , Thiruvengadam Kannan , Krishnan Rajendran
Published: January 2024

Objective: To estimate the prevalence and incidence of TB before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tamil Nadu, south India. Methods: In the present study, the effect of COVID-19 epidemiology on the TB epidemic was assessed by the SEIR (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered), a compartmental epidemiological model. The model input parameters on compartments of TB and incidence of COVID-19 were collected from the published literature. Based on the data collected, point prevalence and incidence of TB per 100,000 population is calculated with and without COVID-19. A prediction was conducted up to 2025, trend analysis was performed, and a trend chi-square test and chi-square test of independence were used to test the difference between the prevalence with and without COVID-19. R software 2000 (R 4.0.0) was used for analysis. Results: The TB prevalence without and with COVID-19 decreases from 289 in 2020 to 271 in 2025 and from 289 in 2020 to 269 in 2025, respectively. Similarly, the incidence of TB was decreasing from 144 in 2020 to 135 in 2025 without COVID-19 and 143 in 2020 to 134 in 2025 with COVID-19. Though the TB burden is decreasing over the years, the trend was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). With respect to the district level, the prevalence and incidence of TB with and without COVID-19 is also found to be decreasing over the years. It was also found that the difference in the prevalence and incidence of TB with and without COVID-19 was not statically significant. Conclusion: The results of our study shows that there was an annual decline of around 2% from 2020 to 2025 in the trend of the prevalence and incidence of TB with and without COVID-19. Overall, there is a reduction, but it was not significant, and there is no significant effect of COVID-19 on TB in Tamil Nadu.
Quantum-Spacetime Symmetries: A Principle of Minimum Group Representation
Authors: Cirilo-Lombardo Diego J. , Sanchez Norma G.
Published: January 2024

We show that, as in the case of the principle of minimum action in classical and quantum mechanics, there exists an even more general principle in the very fundamental structure of quantum spacetime: this is the principle of minimal group representation, which allows us to consistently and simultaneously obtain a natural description of spacetime’s dynamics and the physical states admissible in it. The theoretical construction is based on the physical states that are average values of the generators of the metaplectic group Mp(n), the double covering of SL(2C) in a vector representation, with respect to the coherent states carrying the spin weight. Our main results here are: (i) There exists a connection between the dynamics given by the metaplectic-group symmetry generators and the physical states (the mappings of the generators through bilinear combinations of the basic states). (ii) The ground states are coherent states of the Perelomov–Klauder type defined by the action of the metaplectic group that divides the Hilbert space into even and odd states that are mutually orthogonal. They carry spin weight of 1/4 and 3/4, respectively, from which two other basic states can be formed. (iii) The physical states, mapped bilinearly with the basic 1/4- and 3/4-spin-weight states, plus their symmetric and antisymmetric combinations, have spin contents s=0,1/2,1,3/2 and 2. (iv) The generators realized with the bosonic variables of the harmonic oscillator introduce a natural supersymmetry and a superspace whose line element is the geometrical Lagrangian of our model. (v) From the line element as operator level, a coherent physical state of spin 2 can be obtained and naturally related to the metric tensor. (vi) The metric tensor is naturally discretized by taking the discrete series given by the basic states (coherent states) in the n number representation, reaching the classical (continuous) spacetime for n→∞. (vii) There emerges a relation between the eigenvalue α of our coherent-state metric solution and the black-hole area (entropy) as Abh/4lp2=α, relating the phase space of the metric found, gab, and the black hole area, Abh, through the Planck length lp2 and the eigenvalue α of the coherent states. As a consequence of the lowest level of the quantum-discrete-spacetime spectrum—e.g., the ground state associated to n=0 and its characteristic length—there exists a minimum entropy related to the black-hole history.
Urbanisation in Sub-Saharan Cities and the Implications for Urban Agriculture: Evidence-Based Remote Sensing from Niamey, Niger
Authors: Nasser Ibrahim Abdoul , Adam Elhadi
Published: January 2024

Urbanisation is the process whereby cities are transformed into large sprawling areas. Urbanisation combined with a continuous increase in population makes food security crucial for sustainable development. Urbanisation poses a threat to agricultural land use within built-up and peri-urban areas. It has resulted in the rapid disappearance and/or total change of agricultural farmland in urban and peri-urban areas. To monitor the changes in agricultural farmland, an understanding of changes in the urban landscape is becoming increasingly important. In this study, multi-temporal Landsat imagery were used to analyse the impact of urbanisation on urban agriculture in the city of Niamey. Changes in the urban landscape were determined using the support vector machine (machine learning) algorithm. Results of this study showed a decrease in land with crops from 3428 ha to 648 ha and an increase in built-up areas from 1352 ha to 11,596 ha between 1975 and 2020. Urbanisation and population growth are the main drivers of urban landscape change in Niamey. There was also a decrease in bare land, rock and vegetation classes, while a small increase in rice and water body classes, comparing the 1975 and 2020 values. This study demonstrates the importance of remote sensing in showing the implications of urbanisation on urban agriculture. These results can assist city planners and resource managers in decision-making and adoption of sustainable mitigation measures which are crucial for urban development.
AC-73 and Syrosingopine Inhibit SARS-CoV-2 Entry into Megakaryocytes by Targeting CD147 and MCT4
Authors: Spinello Isabella , Saulle Ernestina , Quaranta Maria Teresa , Pelosi Elvira , Castelli Germana , Cerio Annamaria , Pasquini Luca , Morsilli Ornella , Dupuis Maria Luisa , Labbaye Catherine
Published: January 2024

Coagulation disorders are described in COVID-19 and long COVID patients. In particular, SARS-CoV-2 infection in megakaryocytes, which are precursors of platelets involved in thrombotic events in COVID-19, long COVID and, in rare cases, in vaccinated individuals, requires further investigation, particularly with the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants. CD147, involved in the regulation of inflammation and required to fight virus infection, can facilitate SARS-CoV-2 entry into megakaryocytes. MCT4, a co-binding protein of CD147 and a key player in the glycolytic metabolism, could also play a role in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, we investigated the susceptibility of megakaryocytes to SARS-CoV-2 infection via CD147 and MCT4. We performed infection of Dami cells and human CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells induced to megakaryocytic differentiation with SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus in the presence of AC-73 and syrosingopine, respective inhibitors of CD147 and MCT4 and inducers of autophagy, a process essential in megakaryocyte differentiation. Both AC-73 and syrosingopine enhance autophagy during differentiation but only AC-73 enhances megakaryocytic maturation. Importantly, we found that AC-73 or syrosingopine significantly inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infection of megakaryocytes. Altogether, our data indicate AC-73 and syrosingopine as inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 infection via CD147 and MCT4 that can be used to prevent SARS-CoV-2 binding and entry into megakaryocytes, which are precursors of platelets involved in COVID-19-associated coagulopathy.
Risk Factors Associated with Opportunistic Infections among People Living with HIV/AIDS and Receiving an Antiretroviral Therapy in Gabon, Central Africa
Authors: Mouinga-Ondeme Augustin , Longo-Pendy Neil Michel , Moussadji Kinga Ivan Cyr , Ngoubangoye Barthélémy , Moussavou-Boundzanga Pamela , Boundenga Larson , Diane Abdoulaye , Sica Jeanne , Mfouo-Tynga Ivan Sosthene , Ngoungou Edgard Brice
Published: January 2024

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is still one of the main causes of death in sub-Saharan Africa. Antiretroviral therapies (ARTs) have significantly improved the health conditions of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Consequently, a significant drop in morbidity and mortality, along with a reduced incidence of opportunistic infections (OIs), has been observed. However, certain atypical and biological profiles emerge in ART patients post-examination. The objective of this study was to identify the risk factors that contributed to the onset of OIs in HIV patients undergoing ART in Gabon. Epidemiological and biological data were obtained from medical records (2017 to 2019) found at the outpatient treatment centre (CTA) of Franceville in Gabon. Samples for blood count, CD4, and viral load analysis at CIRMF were collected from PLWHA suffering from other pathogen-induced conditions. A survey was carried out and data were analysed using Rstudio 4.0.2 and Excel 2007 software. Biological and socio-demographic characteristics were examined concerning OIs through both a univariate analysis via Fisher’s exact tests or chi2 (χ2), and a multivariate analysis via logistic regression. Out of the 300 participants initially selected, 223 were included in the study, including 154 (69.05%) women and 69 (30.95%) men. The mean age was 40 (38.6; 41.85), with individuals ranging from 2 to 77 years old. The study cohort was classified into five age groups (2 to 12, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, and 50 to 77 years old), among which the groups aged 30 to 39 and 40 to 49 emerged as the largest, comprising 68 (30.5%) and 75 (33.6%) participants, respectively. It was noted that 57.9% of PLWHA had developed OIs and three subgroups were distinguished, with parasitic, viral, and bacterial infections present in 18%, 39.7%, and 55.4% of cases, respectively. There was a correlation between being male and having a low CD4 T-cell count and the onset of OIs. The study revealed a high overall prevalence of OIs, and extending the study to other regions of Gabon would yield a better understanding of the risk factors associated with the onset of these infections.
Groundwater Environment and Health Risk Assessment in an In Situ Oil Shale Mining Area
Authors: Wang Xiaorong , Liu Boyue , He Shaolin , Yuan Hongying , Ji Dongli , Li Ruolin , Song Yang , Xu Wei , Liu Bo , Xu Yingjun
Published: January 2024

To clarify the risk posed to groundwater in oil shale in situ mining areas, we examine five leached pollutants: Fe, Mn, Cr, sulfate, and ammonia nitrogen. Potential groundwater contents of these five pollutants were evaluated using an improved Nemero comprehensive index method and a health risk assessment method. The results show that, compared with the Class III groundwater quality standard (GB/T 14848-2017) used in the People’s Republic of China, average values of Fe, Mn, and sulfate in leaching solution from Fuyu oil shale exceed the standard, while Cr and ammonia nitrogen do not exceed the standard, and the leaching solution is within Class V groundwater quality. The average values of Fe and Mn in the leaching solution from Fushun oil shale exceed the Class III standard, while Cr, sulfate, and ammonia nitrogen values from this oil shale do not exceed the standard, and the leaching solution is Class IV in terms of groundwater quality. The weighting value used in the Nemero assessment method for the heavy metal Cr is the largest as its potential to cause harm to groundwater quality is the largest. The weight value for sulfate is the smallest as the harm degree is the smallest. The chemical carcinogen Cr has the greatest potential impact on human health. The health risk caused by the chemical non-carcinogen Mn is greater than that caused by Fe and ammonia nitrogen. When high pyrolysis temperatures are used, Mn will be released into groundwater in large quantities. Therefore, supervision and control should be strengthened. The results presented here can provide a reference for the comprehensive evaluation of groundwater risks caused by in situ oil shale mining.
Study on Impoundment Deformation Characteristics and Crack of High Core Rockfill Dam Based on Inversion Parameters
Authors: Pan Litan , Wu Bo , Wang Daquan , Zhou Xiongxiong , Wang Lijie , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2024

In the numerical simulation of earth-rock dam, accurate and reliable mechanical parameters of the dam material are the important basis for dam deformation predictions and dam safety evaluations. Based on the deformation monitoring data of Luding core wall rockfill dam, the rheological parameters of rockfill and core wall materials are inverted in this paper. Combined with the actual filling and impoundment process of the dam, the numerical simulation is carried out, and the stress deformation and differential settlement of the dam after completion and impoundment are analyzed. The results showed that the stress deformation results of the dam based on the inversion parameters were in good agreement with the actual deformation. The horizontal displacement, settlement, and principal stress of the dam during the completion period were symmetrically distributed along the core wall. The maximum horizontal displacement occurred at the main dam on both sides of the core wall and the upstream and downstream dam slopes, and the maximum settlement occurred in the middle of the core wall. During the impoundment period, under the action of reservoir water pressure and upstream rockfill wetting deformation, the deformation and stress of the dam body no longer met the symmetrical distribution law, and the maximum horizontal displacement of the dam body during the impoundment period was located at 2/3 of the upstream dam slope. The maximum settlement of the dam body was located at 1/2 of the dam height. The maximum principal stress on the upstream side of the core wall was located on the left side of the bottom of the core wall, and the minimum principal stress was also located on the left side of the bottom of the core wall. The simulation results of the deformation and stress met the general law of earth-rock dam engineering. During the completion period, the deformation inclination of the dam crest was less than 1%. During the impoundment period, the deformation inclination of the dam crest area increased due to the wetting deformation of the upstream rockfill material. At the same time, the deformation inclination of the dam crest axis was larger than that of the upstream and downstream sides, and the deformation inclination of the dam crest at the middle of the valley was the largest, but it did not exceed 3%, that is, there would be no longitudinal cracks, which is consistent with the actual situation. The research results can better predict the stress deformation and crack of the dam body, and provide important support for dam safety evaluations.
A Scoping Review of the Evidence of the 5Cs Model of Positive Youth Development in Europe
Authors: Martin-Barrado Antonio David , Gomez-Baya Diego
Published: January 2024

In the last 20 years, evidence has been found that supports the “5Cs” of the Positive Youth Development (PYD) model developed by Lerner and his colleagues in the United States. This model considers adolescents as active elements who may acquire the resources and strengths to develop positive relationships with others. However, few studies have focused on its generalization to other contexts. Therefore, the aim of the present scoping review is to examine the evidence of the 5Cs model (Confidence, Competence, Caring, Connection and Character) in Europe. A search was carried out in the international Web of Science database for articles published in Europe between 2013 and June 2023, obtaining 123 articles. Subsequently, after applying the inclusion criteria, 23 articles were included. The findings agreed that men have higher levels of Competence and Confidence, while women scored higher in Connection, Caring and Character. Furthermore, many studies stated that higher scores in Connection, Competence, Character and Confidence are related to better mental health, higher academic performance and greater social and environmental contribution. Consequently, it is crucial to increase the number of interventions based on this model to result in future adults who are healthy, happy and engaged with society. Finally, future lines of research are discussed, as well as the importance of researchers carrying out more intervention programs.
A Novel Extremum Seeking Hyperparameter Design for Joint State and Parameter Estimation of Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Beyhan Selami
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces a novel hyperparameter design based on extremum seeking (ES) method to enhance the convergence speed of Extended-Kalman Filter (EKF). ES method produces a real-time optimization output based on the second-order gradient of performance function so that the estimation performance of EKF is simultaneously optimized. In addition to the convergence speed, the proposed hyperparameter reduces the effect of initial covariance matrices, and improves the accuracy of estimation for the fast changes without any knowledge about system dynamics. In numerical applications, EKF with and without the proposed hyperparameter were first used to estimate the unknown parameters of a linear time-varying system. Second, on a real-time collected data, they were applied for the joint estimation of velocity and payload mass of a real-time nonlinear servo-system where the performance improvement is provided almost 30%. Performance measurements are given in terms of the root-mean squared-error (RMSE) of estimation.
The impact of income on investment interest among millennials in capital market (the implementation of theory of planned behaviour)
Authors: Wulandari Annisa , Rahmadhina Namira Mudrikah , Muda Iskandar
Published: January 2024

One of the challenges of Millennials when starting an investment is income, because most Millennials have limited income. The purpose of this paper is to determine the impact of income on investment interest among Millennials in the capital market. The population in this paper is Millennials at Prof. Dr. H. Kadirun Yahya (Panca Budi) Foundation who have an interest in investment. This paper uses a quantitative approach, with sampling techniques using probability sampling methods with random sampling types. The number of samples in this study were 65 Millennials. The types of data in this study are primary data, obtained through questionnaires and secondary data, obtained from journals and Financial Services Authority official websites and Indonesia Stock Exchange. Based on data analysis and discussion, it can be concluded that income has a significant effect on investment interest among Millennials.
Google Classroom: Malaysian University Students’ attitudes towards its use as learning management system
Authors: Kassim Wan Zulkifli Wan
Published: January 2024

Education in the 21st century is heavily influenced by information and communication technology. The advancement of the Internet has enabled learning to be conducted online, which offers many advantages. Online learning is commonly managed using a learning management system (LMS), the most widely used being Google Classroom. Studies have shown that Google Classroom’s ease of use, usefulness, and helpfulness have been viewed by learners around the world positively. However, studies involving Malaysian learners are sparse. To close the gap in the literature, the present study examined Malaysian university students’ attitudes towards the use of Google Classroom as LMS. Research method employed was quantitative descriptive research. Participants were 89 students from a public university in Terengganu, Malaysia, who were taking an English course. They were mostly female (71%) and between 20 and 23 years old. They had attended face-to-face learning sessions for five weeks before the Covid-19 pandemic necessitated the classes to be held online completely. Participants then completed nine weeks of online learning on Google Classroom. To obtain participants’ feedback, they were requested to fill out a Google Form questionnaire, which asked them to rate on a five-point Likert scale their perceptions of Google Classroom’s ease of use and usefulness as well as their intention to continue using the platform. Based on the results, participants’ views of Google Classroom were very positive. It can be suggested that participants found Google Classroom easy to use, useful, and worth using.
Developing Teaching Resources for Scientific Writing Based On Digital Comics
Authors: Pulungan Anni Holila
Published: January 2024

The teaching resources currently used by instructors are predominantly normative and verbally contextual. The language used is often challenging for students to comprehend, and these materials have not been integrated with modern technology like digital comics, especially in the scientific writing course. This study aims to investigate the suitability and effectiveness of digital comic-based teaching materials for scientific writing students in the English Education program. The research design for this study is Research and Development (R&D), utilizing the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). Fourth-semester students in the English Education program serve as the data source for this study. Data collection is carried out through observations, interviews, questionnaire distribution, and conducting group discussion forums. Data are analyzed through needs analysis and objective analysis, as well as validation and reliability assessments. The overall results of these analyses are used as a basis for designing and developing digital comic-based teaching materials for the scientific writing course. Based on the analysis, it was found that the validation results for the digital comics of media expert validation was 3.75 which categorized into valid and content expert validation were 3.63 of learning aspects, meanwhile 3.71 of content aspect which fall into valid criteria. The results of students response was 4.33 which categorized into highly practical. This indicates that digital comic teaching materials are highly suitable for use in the scientific writing course.
Perancangan Kampung Tematik River Tubing Mayangsari Menjadi Destinasi Wisata Kota Semarang
Authors: Wungo Grandy Loranessa , Sugiyarto Anis Meilitasari , Pertiwi Natania Nysa
Published: January 2024

Thematic villages have a big role in reducing the poverty rate in Semarang City. The existence of tourism-oriented development will encourage thematic villages to have more impact on the people's economy. The River Tubing Mayangsari thematic village has the potential to be developed, therefore there is a need for planning and design recommendations for tourist destinations. The method used is a quantitative and qualitative descriptive analysis approach in data analysis and data collection techniques using field techniques and literature/document studies. The results obtained in this service are recommendations for socio-economic planning and infrastructure design for the Mayangsari River Tubing. This community service is expected to become a consideration and recommendation for the Regional Development Planning Agency for the City of Semarang in bringing the Mayangsari River Tubing Thematic Village to a Tourist Destination in the City of Semarang.
Pemberdayaan Aktif Pelaku UMK dalam Menggapai Keunggulan Bersaing Berbasis Inovasi Produk dan Media Sosial
Authors: Nurhidayati Nurhidayati , Sukmawan Satria
Published: January 2024

The aim of this research is to find out, analyze and test the influence of product innovation and social media, both partially together, on the competitive advantage of MSEs in Tembalang District, Semarang City, as well as to find out, analyze and test the influence of product innovation and social media both together. on the competitive advantage of MSEs in Tembalang District, Semarang City. Data collection was carried out by survey using a questionnaire given to 47 SMEs in Tembalang Village, Semarang City. The analysis tool used is the SPSS '26 program. The results of the research show that product innovation partially has a positive and significant effect on the competitive advantage of MSEs in Tembalang Village, Semarang City, social media partially has a positive and significant effect on the competitive advantage of MSEs in Tembalang Village, Semarang City, while jointly product innovation and social media have a positive and significant influence on the competitive advantage of MSEs in Tembalang Village, Semarang City.
Anteseden Niat Kewirausahaan Berkelanjutan Gen Z Kawasan Smart City Semarang: Apakah Teknologi dan Pemerintah Daerah Berperan?
Authors: Alfarizi Muhammad
Published: January 2024

The UN Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030 focuses on entrepreneurship as a solution to turn ideas into action in building smart cities. Research states that entrepreneurship is crucial in creating sustainable companies in growing cities. Smart City is becoming a center for innovation and data technology to improve city services. Semarang City, as the center of economy and education in Indonesia, has implemented the Smart City concept since 2013. The rapid development of this city, together with the demographic bonus of Generation Z, supports the implementation of technological solutions in support of an adaptive and sustainable Smart City concept. This study aims to investigate the influence of urban entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship education on the sustainable entrepreneurial intentions of Gen Z in the Smart City Area, in this case study Semarang City, by considering the moderator of the role of technology and local government support. This study proposes six hypotheses according to the proposed model of sustainable entrepreneurship in Smart City areas with moderation of business technology and government support. This study chose a survey-based quantitative approach on 250 local Semarang students, and the response data was analyzed using the SEM-PLS technique. The results showed that urban entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurship Education significantly positively affect the sustainable entrepreneurial intentions of the Smart City area.Furthermore, it is proven that business technology and local government support moderate relations between urban entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurship Education with the intention of sustainable entrepreneurship in the Semarang Smart City area. The study recommends the integration of the concept of entrepreneurship in the college curriculum and the establishment of partnerships between universities, industry, and government in Semarang City. The government must expand internet connectivity, provide training programs for entrepreneurs, utilize technology in city infrastructure, and collaborate with educational institutions and industry for inclusive and innovative economic growth.