bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization Study of a High-Efficiency Preservative for Ammonia-Free Concentrated Natural Rubber Latex
Authors: Zhao Liguang , Xing Peng , Zhao Liyang , Yang Qigui , Song Yazhong , Ding Li , Zhao Tao , Wang Yuekun , Xin Zhenxiang , Gui Hongxing
Published: January 2025

Ammonia is commonly used as a preservative in the production of concentrated natural rubber latex (CNRL) and latex products; however, it poses a serious risk to human health and the environment. In this study, we investigated a thioacetamide derivative (TD) as a preservative of ammonia-free CNRL and the optimization of a stabilization system comprising potassium hydroxide (KOH), lauric acid (LA), and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) to enhance its preservation effect. The results revealed that an optimal amount of TD (0.03%) can effectively maintain the stability of CNRL, inhibit the increase in volatile fatty acid number (VFA number), maintain stable viscosity values, and improve the mechanical stability time (MST). However, increasing the TD dosage results in an increase in both the viscosity and VFA number and a decrease in MST. KOH was used to regulate the pH value of CNRL. It was also found that it can enhance considerably the mechanical properties of CNRL dry films and accelerates the vulcanization of vulcanized film; however, an excessive amount causes latex thickening. LA proved essential for improving the MST and reducing latex viscosity, thereby substantially enhancing the stability and processability of pre-vulcanized latex, but an excessive amount is detrimental to the curing speed and final mechanical strength. SDS can rapidly improve the MST and reduce the viscosity, but it negatively affects the surface molding of dry rubber films. In conclusion, KOH, LA, and SDS at appropriate dosages play a balancing and complementary role in the preparation of ammonia-free CNRL. Upon analyzing diverse performance metrics of CNRL, it has been determined that the optimal TD dosage ranges from 0.02 to 0.03% for maximum efficacy. The KOH dosage should be maintained within 0.1–0.15% to achieve the most favorable outcome, while the LA dosage is advisable to be kept between 0.06 and 0.1%.
Influence of Low Loadings of Cellulose Nanocrystals on the Simultaneously Enhanced Crystallization Rate, Mechanical Property, and Hydrophilicity of Biobased Poly(butylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate)
Authors: Pan Siyu , Yang Haidong , Qiu Zhaobin
Published: January 2025

In this research, fully biobased composites consisting of poly(butylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PBF) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were successfully prepared through a common solution and casting method. The influence of CNC on the crystallization behavior, mechanical property, and hydrophilicity of PBF was systematically investigated. Under different crystallization processes, the crystallization of PBF was obviously promoted by CNC as a biobased nucleating agent. The Ozawa equation was not suitable to fit the nonisothermal melt crystallization kinetics of PBF and PBF/CNC composites. The nucleation activity of CNC was quantitatively calculated by the Dobreva method; moreover, the nucleation efficiency of CNC was further evaluated through the self-nucleation procedure. The isothermal melt crystallization kinetics of PBF and PBF/CNC composites was well described by the Avrami method; moreover, the crystallization mechanism and the crystal structure of PBF remained unchanged despite the presence of CNC. CNC also greatly enhanced both the mechanical property and hydrophilicity of PBF in the composites. In sum, low loadings of CNC simultaneously improved the crystallization, mechanical property, and hydrophilicity of PBF, which should be of significant importance and interest in fully biobased polymer composites from a sustainable viewpoint.
The Effect of an Individualized Informational Intervention on the Quality of Life, Adherence and Psychosocial Economic Status of Patients with COPD: A Research Protocol
Authors: Karlatou Antonia Aravantinou , Christodoulakis Antonios , Schiza Sophia E. , Karademas Evangelos C. , Tsiligianni Ioanna
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a diverse negative impact on patients, affecting them both physically and mentally. Psychosocial factors such as anxiety, depression, social isolation, and financial stress have been found to be positively associated with more exacerbations, hospital readmissions, poor adherence to medication, and lower quality of life among patients with COPD. However, healthcare professionals, who have a crucial role in diagnosing and managing COPD, often overlook these psychosocial factors of the disease, despite growing evidence suggesting their crucial role in improving disease outcomes. Consequently, this study will evaluate the effectiveness of a personalized individualized informational intervention on the quality of life, adherence, and psychosocial economic status of patients with COPD in healthcare settings of Greece. Methods: A prospective, mixed-methods design will be used, incorporating both quantitative data through questionnaires, including the Short Form (SF-12), Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ), Test of Adherence to Inhalers (TAI), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Financial Ability Scale (FAS), alongside qualitative data with questions exploring themes such as general health perception, treatment adherence, mental status, socioeconomic status, and disease management. Participants will consist of patients receiving care at primary healthcare facilities and respiratory hospital departments in Crete, Greece. The intervention will involve providing structured information on social, financial, and psychological support services, along with psychosocial counseling over a six-month period. The impact of the intervention will be measured using validated tools to assess health status, quality of life, treatment adherence, mental health, and socioeconomic status before and after the intervention. Conversely, qualitative interviews will be conducted to gain deeper insights into the impact of the intervention. Finally, when the analyses of both data types are finalized, they will be triangulated to achieve convergence. This procedure entails the creation of a figure or illustration that demonstrates the convergence or divergence of both data types. Conclusions: The findings of this study are expected to highlight the importance of integrating an individualized informational intervention into the management of COPD. Thus, this study could guide healthcare professionals and policymakers in improving COPD care and patient outcomes.
Quantification of Forest Regeneration on Forest Inventory Sample Plots Using Point Clouds from Personal Laser Scanning
Authors: Witzmann Sarah , Gollob Christoph , Kraßnitzer Ralf , Ritter Tim , Tockner Andreas , Moik Lukas , Sarkleti Valentin , Ofner-Graff Tobias , Schume Helmut , Nothdurft Arne
Published: January 2025

The presence of sufficient natural regeneration in mature forests is regarded as a pivotal criterion for their future stability, ensuring seamless reforestation following final harvesting operations or forest calamities. Consequently, forest regeneration is typically quantified as part of forest inventories to monitor its occurrence and development over time. Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology, particularly ground-based LiDAR, has emerged as a powerful tool for assessing typical forest inventory parameters, providing high-resolution, three-dimensional data on the forest structure. Therefore, it is logical to attempt a LiDAR-based quantification of forest regeneration, which could greatly enhance area-wide monitoring, further supporting sustainable forest management through data-driven decision making. However, examples in the literature are relatively sparse, with most relevant studies focusing on an indirect quantification of understory density from airborne LiDAR data (ALS). The objective of this study is to develop an accurate and reliable method for estimating regeneration coverage from data obtained through personal laser scanning (PLS). To this end, 19 forest inventory plots were scanned with both a personal and a high-resolution terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) for reference purposes. The voxelated point clouds obtained from the personal laser scanner were converted into raster images, providing either the canopy height, the total number of filled voxels (containing at least one LiDAR point), or the ratio of filled voxels to the total number of voxels. Local maxima in these raster images, assumed to be likely to contain tree saplings, were then used as seed points for a raster-based tree segmentation, which was employed to derive the final regeneration coverage estimate. The results showed that the estimates differed from the reference in a range of approximately −10 to +10 percentage points, with an average deviation of around 0 percentage points. In contrast, visually estimated regeneration coverages on the same forest plots deviated from the reference by between −20 and +30 percentage points, approximately −2 percentage points on average. These findings highlight the potential of PLS data for automated forest regeneration quantification, which could be further expanded to include a broader range of data collected during LiDAR-based forest inventory campaigns.
Impacts of Future Climate Change and Xiamen’s Territorial Spatial Planning on Carbon Storage and Sequestration
Authors: Zhu Wei , Lan Ting , Tang Lina
Published: January 2025

The intensification of climate change and the implementation of territorial spatial planning policies have jointly increased the complexity of future carbon storage changes. However, the impact of territorial spatial planning on carbon storage under future climate change remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to reveal the potential impacts of future climate change and territorial spatial planning on carbon storage and sequestration, providing decision support for addressing climate change and optimizing territorial spatial planning. We employed the FLUS model, the InVEST model, and the variance partitioning analysis (VPA) method to simulate carbon storage under 15 different scenarios that combine climate change scenarios and territorial spatial planning for Xiamen in 2035, and to quantify the individual and combined impacts of territorial spatial planning and climate change on ecosystem carbon sequestration. The results showed that (1) by 2035, Xiamen’s carbon storage capacity is expected to range from 32.66 × 106 Mg to 33.00 × 106 Mg under various scenarios, reflecting a decrease from 2020 levels; (2) the implementation of territorial spatial planning is conducive to preserving Xiamen’s carbon storage, with the urban development boundary proving to be the most effective; (3) carbon storage is greatly affected by climate change, with RCP 4.5 more effective than RCP 8.5 in maintaining higher levels of carbon storage; and (4) the influence of territorial spatial planning on carbon sequestration consistently exceeds that of climate change, particularly under high-emission scenarios, where the regulatory effect of planning is especially significant.
Advancements in Applications of Manufacturing and Measurement Sensors
Authors: Shao Yiping , Du Shichang , Huang Delin
Published: January 2025

Manufacturing and measurement sensors are an integral part of advanced manufacturing technology, which requires sensors that can precisely capture and analyze various physical parameters during the manufacturing process [...]
Comparing Methods for Pyrite Surface Area Measurement Through Optical, Aqueous, and Gaseous Approaches
Authors: Macchi Samantha , Nemer Martin , Mills Melissa M. , Meyerson Melissa L. , Papenguth Hans W. , Taphouse John H. , Schorr Noah B.
Published: January 2025

Accurate surface area data are imperative for the development of meaningful property–function relationships. Nitrogen gas (N2) adsorption/Brunauer–Emmet–Teller (BET) surface area analysis is a widely used technique for surface area characterization of materials because of straightforward sample preparation, automation, and low cost. However, iron disulfide (FeS2) does not typically exhibit quantifiable N2 monolayer formation in BET measurements. FeS2 has been applied in fields such as batteries, catalysis, and adsorption, all of which would benefit from techniques that reliably assess surface area (SSA) of the active material. To address this, we evaluated FeS2 samples by combining alternative surface characterization techniques to quantify SSA. Ten different FeS2 samples from various manufacturers are characterized via BET, laser diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, non-contact profilometry, and liquid dye adsorption. Compared to BET, which resulted in a wide range of SSAs between 0.049–1.213 m2 g−1, liquid dye adsorption was found to be accurate for pyrite samples at low sample masses (<50 mg), with SSA values between 0.99–10.20 m2 g−1. Using an optical characterization approach, which combined particle size and surface roughness data, we readily estimated SSA of the particles and found these values correlated linearly with liquid adsorption but not BET values. This work serves to help researchers choose a more fitting method for examining low surface area materials like FeS2 and can easily be applied to other minerals for quantitative and qualitative surface area comparisons.
Social Justice Work in the University: Understanding Student and Staff Perceptions and Aspirations for Decolonising the Curriculum from a University-Wide Survey
Authors: Araneta Kyra , Costin Kelsea , Fraser Jennifer , Maatwk Fatima , Süvari Özge , Tahir Esra
Published: January 2025

In recent years, we have seen social movement-based calls for social justice and decolonisation in universities around the world. Some of these have been in response to specific events such as the murder of George Floyd in 2020, while others are rooted in longer standing social movements such as Rhodes Must Fall. These movements have served as catalysts for universities to rethink their commitments to social justice. This article presents the preliminary findings of a university-wide research initiative focused on understanding student and staff perceptions of decolonisation and their aspirations for decolonial work within a post-1992 institution in the United Kingdom. Positioned within the university’s broader commitments to anti-racism and as part of a student–staff partnership project focused on interrogating contemporary coloniality, this research investigates how participants understand and experience decolonial initiatives as well as the perceived impact of these efforts on curriculum, relationships, and institutional culture. By conducting a survey, we sought to unravel the complexities surrounding how students and staff conceptualise decolonisation, articulate their aspirations for decolonial initiatives, and envision the potential of student–staff partnerships as catalysts for transformative social justice work within the university. This study aims to enrich the discourse on social justice work in higher education by offering a critical lens on decolonial efforts and highlighting opportunities for collective action to rethink knowledge production and pedagogical practices. Grounded in the belief that decolonial research partnerships between students and staff are essential, the survey and article were developed by six researchers—three staff members and three students.
Supervised vs. Self-Managed Exercise Therapy for Improving Shoulder Function After Traumatic Dislocation and Sprain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Koska Daniel , Zetzsche Robert , Mayer Tobias A. , Maiwald Christian
Published: January 2025

Trauma-induced shoulder dislocations and sprains rank among the most common upper extremity injuries, with contact sports accounting for the majority of cases. These injuries often lead to substantial impairments in joint function and long recovery times, requiring targeted therapeutic interventions to restore mobility and prevent recurrent injuries. Given the pivotal role of exercise therapy in restoring shoulder function, this study systematically reviews the literature on the comparative effectiveness of supervised versus self-managed exercise therapy following acute shoulder trauma. PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, Web of Science, and Science Direct were searched up to 13 December 2024. Conservative and post-surgical treatment modes were analyzed separately. Five studies with a total 689 participants were included (conservative: n = 538 across two studies; post-surgical: n = 151 across three studies). Both treatment modes showed similar pooled effects (standardized mean difference, SMDconservative: −0.35, 95% CI [−1.39, 0.69]; SMDpost-surgical: −0.23, 95% CI [−1.21, 0.75]), with a marginal improvement in shoulder function favoring supervised therapy. Four studies had some risk of bias, and one had serious risk; GRADE certainty was low. Supervised exercise therapy may offer slightly greater functional improvements over self-managed training, but evidence is limited by heterogeneity and low certainty. Further high-quality trials with standardized protocols and improved adherence tracking are needed to establish more definitive conclusions and guide clinical decision-making.
Channel Incising and Sandbar Growth in the Upper Yangtze River Estuary During 1994–2019, China
Authors: Chai Yingying , Chen Shuo , Zhao Mengjie , Liu Wen , Xu Yijun , Li Zijun , Lin Jinkuo , Zheng Shuwei
Published: January 2025

Anthropogenic activities and climate change have increased the stress on the world’s estuaries over the past decades. Limited knowledge exists about how estuarine receding responds to human interference, particularly the geomorphic dynamics of channels and sandbars. Here, we evaluate the topographic evolution of the upper Yangtze River Estuary (YRE), the largest branch reach with frequently shifting sandbars, from 1994 to 2019. Our results show that a net channel erosion of 9.59 × 108 m3 occurred in the upper YRE, equivalent to an annual erosion depth of 8.67 cm. On the contrary, sandbars with a large area increased from 47.68 km2 to 70.88 km2, showing the opposite development of estuarine channels. Reduced riverine sediment supply may have been responsible for the estuarine channel erosion, and river engineering may have contributed to intense erosion in local areas. Also, the engineering projects were likely the main reason for the stability and growth of the sandbars. This study reveals the branching channel–sandbar system of the upper YRE in response to anthropogenic and climatic change forcing. The knowledge gained from this study can be applied to other similar estuarine systems around the world, helping develop sustainable strategies for the utilization and protection of the world’s estuaries and deltas.
Solar Distillation as a Sustainable STEM Tool: Bridging Theory and Practice
Authors: Castillo Téllez Margarita , Castillo-Téllez Beatriz , Mex Álvarez Diana Concepción , García-Valladares Octavio , Domínguez Niño Alfredo , Mejía-Pérez Gerardo Alberto
Published: January 2025

This study addresses a gap in STEM education by integrating solar distillation as a sustainable, hands-on learning tool to enhance students’ comprehension of heat transfer concepts and increase their awareness of environmental challenges. Guided by Bruner’s constructivist theory, this project-inspired approach aims to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, particularly sustainability. Students participated actively in the solar still’s design, construction, and analysis phases, allowing them to apply scientific principles in practical contexts. The findings demonstrated that students understood heat and mass transfer concepts more profoundly and developed an appreciation for renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices. Additionally, the project highlighted the impact of external climatic conditions on system performance, promoting an awareness of environmental factors affecting sustainable solutions. This research illustrates the potential of combining constructivist learning with sustainable technology education, preparing students to address pressing global issues such as water scarcity and energy conservation.
Sustainability Indicators of Different Production Systems of a Greek Local Sheep Breed
Authors: Skordos Dimitrios , Ragkos Athanasios , Karanikolas Pavlos , Vlahos George
Published: January 2025

This study develops a toolkit of sustainability indicators to analyze the economic, environmental, and social performance of various pasture-based production systems rearing Karagkouniko sheep (both specialized and mixed), and compares it with the intensive Lacaune production system in the same region. The analysis showed that despite the lower milk productivity, the group of specialized livestock Karagkouniko farms was more profitable compared to the Lacaune (35% higher net profit) production system, mainly due to savings in purchased feedstuff (64% lower expenses). This implies that grazing—if properly managed—can indeed enhance the profitability of farms. The group of mixed Karagkouniko farms—cultivating crops for both feedstuff and markets—was the least profitable group (−144.76 per ewe) as well as the least efficient in terms of use of energy (EUR 4.66 of output per EUR 1 of energy cost) and agrochemical inputs (537.2 kg of fertilizers and 3.3 liters of pesticides per ha). This suggests that strong organizational skills are required to effectively manage both crop and livestock production. Trade-offs were also observed between the sustainability dimensions. To address these trade-offs and ensure a transition to more sustainable agriculture, a comprehensive framework should be developed, integrating a mix of socioeconomic and agro-environmental schemes.
Issues in the Expansion and Contraction of Operators
Authors: Otelbaev Mukhtarbay , Shynybekov Abdukhali , Dosmagulova Karlygash
Published: January 2025

This paper explores fundamental issues in the correct contraction and expansion of operators, with a primary focus on the concept of symmetry within operator theory. Special attention is given to how symmetry influences the behavior of operators, particularly regarding their approximation and convergence properties. In the domains of quantum mechanics and condensed matter physics, such operators are essential for modeling phenomena like superconductivity, excitons, and surface states. The symmetric properties of operators have a profound impact on the physical interpretations and predictions these models generate. A rigorous analysis is provided regarding the existence of correct contractions and expansions for a specific class of nonlinear operators, demonstrating how symmetry affects the structural integrity of operators under natural conditions. The study presents a comprehensive description of the set of all correct contractions, expansions, and regular expansions, with an application to a third-order nonlinear differential expression. Additionally, a condition for the unique solvability of a Bitsadze–Samarskii-type problem is derived, showcasing how symmetry plays a crucial role in guiding the solution of complex physical models. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of preserving symmetry in the construction of operators, ensuring the consistency and accuracy of mathematical models. This has significant implications for both theoretical research and practical applications in various fields, including nuclear physics and quantum theory.
Comparative Sensitivity of MRI Indices for Myelin Assessment in Spinal Cord Regions
Authors: Oppong Philip Kyeremeh Jnr , Hamaguchi Hiroyuki , Kitagawa Maho , Patzke Nina , Wakeman Kevin C. , Tha Khin Khin
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Although multiple magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indices are known to be sensitive to the noninvasive assessment of myelin integrity, their relative sensitivities have not been directly compared. This study aimed to identify the most sensitive MRI index for characterizing myelin composition in the spinal cord’s gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM). Methods: MRI was performed on a deer’s ex vivo cervical spinal cord. Quantitative indices known to be sensitive to myelin, including the myelin water fraction (MWF), magnetization transfer ratio (MTR), the signal ratio between T1- and T2-weighted images (T1W/T2W), fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), electrical conductivity (σ), and T1, T2, and T1ρ relaxation times were calculated. Their mean values were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc Bonferroni tests or Friedman and post hoc Wilcoxon tests to identify differences across GM and WM columns possessing distinct myelin distributions, as revealed by histological analysis. Relationships among the indices were examined using Spearman’s rank-order correlation analysis. Corrected p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: All indices except σ differed significantly between GM and all WM columns. Two of the three WM columns had significantly different MWF, FA, MD, and T2, whereas one WM column had significantly different MTR, σ, T1, and T1ρ from the others. A significant moderate to very strong correlation was observed among most indices. Conclusions: The sensitivity of MRI indices in distinguishing spinal cord regions varied. A strategic combination of two or more indices may allow the accurate differentiation of spinal cord regions.
Multi-Element Exposure and Health Risks of Grains from Ambagarh Chowki, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Wakhle Bhagyashri , Sharma Saroj , Patel Khageshwar Singh , Pandey Piyush Kant , Blažević Antonela , Fiket Željka , Yurdakul Sema , Varol Simge , Martín-Ramos Pablo , Al-Yousef Hanan M. , Mothana Ramzi A.
Published: January 2025

Rice, wheat, and maize grains are staple foods, widely consumed for their mineral and nutritional values. However, they can accumulate toxic elements from contaminated soils, posing health risks. This study investigates the bioaccumulation patterns of 52 elements (including nutrients, heavy metals, and rare earth elements) in various parts (grain, husk, straw, and root) of cereals grown in a heavily polluted region. The results revealed that rice grains exhibited a higher accumulation (Σ33.4 mg/kg) of toxic elements (As, Cu, Cr, Ni, and Pb) than wheat (Σ26.6 mg/kg) and maize (Σ16.2 mg/kg) grains, with the high-yield RI64 cultivar (Σ47.0 mg/kg) being the most susceptible. Across the rice plant, accumulation increased in the order of grain < husk < straw < root. Elements like P, K, Cu, and Zn showed the highest enrichment. Worryingly, the most toxic elements, such as As, Pb, and Cd, exceeded permissible limits across grains, straws, and husks. Health risk assessment indicated that wheat and maize pose greater non-cancer and cancer risks than rice. Despite being grown in a highly contaminated region, the study identifies some rice cultivars like Luchai and Sarna as relatively safer options due to a lower accumulation of toxic elements.
Description of the Serological Response After Treatment of Chronic Imported Schistosomiasis
Authors: González-Sanz Marta , Martín-Rubio Irene , Martín Oihane , Muriel Alfonso , de la Fuente-Hernanz Sagrario , Crespillo-Andújar Clara , Chamorro-Tojeiro Sandra , Monge-Maíllo Begoña , Norman Francesca F. , Pérez-Molina José A.
Published: January 2025

Background: Chronic schistosomiasis can lead to significant morbidity. Serology is highly sensitive; however, its role in assessing treatment response is controversial. This study aimed to analyze serological values following treatment of chronic imported schistosomiasis. Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed including patients treated for chronic imported schistosomiasis from 2018 to 2022 who had at least one serological result at baseline and during follow-up. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were evaluated. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) models and Kaplan–Meier curves were used to analyze the evolution of serological values. Results: Of the 83 patients included, 72 (86.7%) were male, and the median age was 26 years (IQR 22–83). Most patients, 76 (91.6%), were migrants from sub-Saharan Africa. While 24 cases (28.9%) presented with urinary symptoms, the majority (59; 71.1%) were asymptomatic. Schistosoma haematobium eggs were observed in five cases (6.2%). Eosinophilia was present in 34 participants (40.9%). All patients had an initial positive Schistosoma ELISA serology, median ODI 2.3 (IQR 1.5–4.4); the indirect hemagglutination (IHA) test was positive/indeterminate in 34 cases (43.1%). Following treatment with praziquantel, serology values significantly decreased: −0.04 (IC95% −0.073, −0.0021) and −5.73 (IC95% −9.92, −1.53) units per month for ELISA and IHA, respectively. A quarter of patients (25%) had negative ELISA results 63 weeks after treatment. All symptomatic cases were clinically cured. Conclusions: Serial serological determinations could be helpful for monitoring chronic schistosomiasis in non-endemic regions. The ideal timing for these follow-up tests is yet to be determined. Further research is needed to determine the factors that influence a negative result during follow-up.
Gravitational Waves from Black Hole Emission
Authors: Islam Tousif , Khanna Gaurav , Liebling Steven L.
Published: January 2025

Using adiabatic point-particle black hole perturbation theory, we simulate plausible gravitational wave (GW) signatures in two exotic scenarios (i) where a small black hole is emitted by a larger one (‘black hole emission’) and (ii) where a small black hole is emitted by a larger one and subsequently absorbed back (‘black hole absorption’). While such scenarios are forbidden in general relativity (GR), alternative theories (such as certain quantum gravity scenarios obeying the weak gravity conjecture, white holes, and Hawking radiation) may allow them. By leveraging the phenomenology of black hole emission and absorption signals, we introduce straightforward modifications to existing gravitational waveform models to mimic gravitational radiation associated with these exotic events. We anticipate that these (incomplete but) initial simulations, coupled with the adjusted waveform models, will aid in the development of null tests for GR using GWs.
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Uptake Among Australian Healthcare Professionals: An Archetype for Success
Authors: Hall Caroline M. , Cotton Anthony , Webster Adrian , Bushell Mary , Northam Holly L.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Qualitative research suggests there may be identifiable characteristics that form a health professional (HCP) archetype associated with habitual seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV). However, the validity of this archetype requires further investigation, ideally within a theoretical framework that can elucidate this association and its generalisability to other vaccines. This study aims to confirm key HCP archetype characteristics associated with SIV, as informed by prior qualitative research findings, and test the generalisability of the association between this archetype and SIV to COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Method: A cross-sectional survey was designed and distributed to an Australian HCP sample consisting of practicing nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and medical practitioners. The anonymous online survey measured key characteristics that predict vaccination behaviour and intention. Results: Most participants (n = 173) demonstrated habitual SIV behaviour (77.91%) associated with the intention to vaccinate in the future. Survey findings supported the HCP archetype, as key constructs were associated with vaccination intention and behaviour, including heightened professional responsibility, vaccine confidence, and protection of self and patients. Furthermore, results suggested progressing vaccination intention to behaviour, overcoming vaccine complacency, is possible through the provision of free, accessible vaccination services. These critical factors were broadly generalisable to the COVID-19 vaccine. Conclusions: A vaccination-positive HCP archetype, supported by access to free, convenient vaccination services, was associated with the likelihood of future vaccination behaviour, including in future pandemic response scenarios. However, it will be important to ensure that HCP vaccine knowledge gaps are minimised to enhance trust in this cohort to enable broad success.
Use of Modified Activated Carbon in Groundwater Remediation for Human Consumption
Authors: María Lorena Cadme-Arévalo , Verónica Cristina Andrade-Yucailla , Alda Geijo López , Ronald Oswaldo Villamar-Torres , Lorena Campisi Cadme Raisha , Sarah Arreaga Cadme Thais , Javier Fernández González , José Benavente Herrera , Aransiola Sesan Abiodun , Maddela Naga Raju
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to produce activated carbon from desilicated rice husks using various carbonization and activation methods, including a tube furnace, muffle furnace, and artisanal pyrolysis. The resulting activated carbons were characterized for their adsorptive capacity through the determination of iodine number and methylene blue adsorption; these are key indicators of specific surface area and adsorbent quality. Advanced characterization techniques were employed, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed a highly porous and irregular surface structure, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), confirming the effective removal of impurities and optimization of the elemental composition. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) demonstrated favorable surface roughness for adsorption processes. Among the samples, CaDH162-CADH53 exhibited the highest performance, with an iodine number of 1094.8 mg/g and a yield of 93.5%, signifying a high adsorption capacity. The activation treatments with phosphoric acid and calcium carbonate significantly improved the porous structure, further enhancing the material’s adsorptive properties. In conclusion, the activated carbons produced in this study demonstrated optimal physicochemical properties for water purification and contaminant treatment applications. These findings highlight the potential of using agricultural waste, such as rice husk, as a sustainable and scalable alternative for industrial-scale activated carbon production.
Addressing the Uncertainties in the Environmental Analysis, Modeling, Source and Risk Assessment of Emerging Contaminants
Authors: Zhao Wenxing , Wang Bin , Yu Gang
Published: January 2025

Emerging contaminants (ECs) have become a growing source of worry for environmental researchers and stakeholders in recent decades. Compared with conventional pollutants, ECs can pose environmental risks even at a trace level. The analysis of ECs is typically significantly more challenging than that of conventional pollutants because of their trace amounts and diverse chemical structures. For sound environmental management, it is necessary to perform a comprehensive study of these pollutants. Global concern has increasingly grown over the occurrence, fate, environmental modeling, and risk assessment of such contaminants. Due to the dearth of knowledge in this area, various uncertainties inevitably exist in the investigation of ECs. Environmental problems cannot be precisely understood due to the ubiquitous uncertainties in environmental research. Uncertainties and their sources have been reviewed in this study, including spatial and temporal variability, uncertainty in sample collection and analysis, uncertainty in environmental modeling, uncertainty in risk assessment, and uncertainty in source characterization. Some suggestions to reduce uncertainties are summarized. An awareness of uncertainty is necessary for us to have a more accurate understanding and contribute to sound environmental decision-making and management. In addition, more work remains to be performed to reveal the uncertainties in the analysis and risk assessment of ECs.
Unpacking the Multifaceted Benefits of Indigenous Crops for Food Security: A Review of Nutritional, Economic and Environmental Impacts in Southern Africa
Authors: Mgwenya Lethu Inneth , Agholor Isaac Azikiwe , Ludidi Ndiko , Morepje Mishal Trevor , Sithole Moses Zakhele , Msweli Nomzamo Sharon , Thabane Variety Nkateko
Published: January 2025

Indigenous and traditional food crops (ITFCs) are essential to initiatives aimed at increasing food and nutrition security and diversifying the food supply. Therefore, this study sought to evaluate the benefits associated with ITFCs, particularly for food security. The Vigna subterranea (Bambara groundnut), Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea), Colocasia esculenta (Taro), and Sinapis arvensis (Wild mustard) are examples of indigenous crops that were introduced for food security in Southern Africa. This review assessed the advantages of indigenous crops for food security and examined literature, reports, and case studies from 2009 to 2024 using academic databases, like Scopus, Web of Science, JSTOR, Google Scholar, and AGRIS, to assess how indigenous crops impact on food security and the benefits thereof. The primary inclusion criteria were nutritional, economic and environmental impacts of these indigenous crops for food security in Southern Africa. The review concludes that maximizing these benefits requires removing obstacles through capacity-building and policy reforms. The need to integrate precision agriculture to increase production of indigenous crops should be considered and the coherent use of food crops associated with food security must be developed by the government. A comprehensive strategy centered on investment in sustainable farming and climate smart agriculture is recommended to ensure food security.
Herbal medicine for secondary prevention of ischemic heart disease
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Continuing Professional Education Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federatio, Korshikova Yu.I.
Published: January 2025

The use of herbal medicine in global clinical practice has its roots in the distant past. Research
into the application of healing herbs in medicine continues. The article describes an approach to the use of
the phytotherapeutic agent “Normavit” in the secondary prevention of atherosclerosis and ischemic heart
disease. The article was prepared based on the author’s observations.
Diagnosis of various diseases of human body by odor in clinician’s practice
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Saratov State Medical University named after V. I. Razumovsky» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Saratov, Russia, Ilyin A. A. , Lutsenko A. G. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Saratov State Medical University named after V. I. Razumovsky» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Saratov, Russia, Voronina A. N. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Saratov State Medical University named after V. I. Razumovsky» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Saratov, Russia
Published: January 2025

The odors coming from the patient are an important diagnostic sign of an existing
disease. Due to their lack of relevant knowledge, clinicians cannot take advantage of this
diagnostic indicator. The article aims to fill this gap. The paper analyzes and summarizes current
knowledge about the chemical and clinical aspects of volatile organic compounds released by the
body during diseases, as well as about the methods of their instrumental detection.
Formation of the modern concept of occupational medicine. RAS academician N. F. Izmerov
Authors:   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Babanov S. A.
Published: January 2025

We remember Nikolay Fedotovich Izmerov, PhD in Medicine, professor, academician of the Russian
Academy of Medical Sciences and the Russian Academy of Sciences, Soviet and Russian hygienist and occupational pathologist, founder of the modern concept of occupational medicine.
Mechanisms of hyperglycemia formation as a result of traumatic brain injuries (literature review)
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Mari State University», Yoshkar-Ola, Republic of Mari El, Arzikulov R. E. , Bontsevich R. A. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Mari State University», Yoshkar-Ola, Republic of Mari El, Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education Belgorod National Research University, Kazan State Medical Academy — branch of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Fur ther Professional Education RMANPO
Published: January 2025

Hyperglycemia is a common complication after traumatic brain injury and is
associated with poor clinical outcomes. This review examines some of the mechanisms that
lead to hyperglycemia after traumatic brain injury, including stress-induced hyperglycemia,
inflammatory response, and hypothalamic-pituitary axis dysfunction. Hyperglycemia can
lead to lactic acidosis, electrolyte imbalance, inflammation, vascular disorders, and blood brain barrier rupture and increased permeability. Patients who develop hyperglycemia after
traumatic brain injury have a high risk of poor outcome and mor tality.
El Derecho Humano al agua en el Ecuador: Análisis de la sentencia N° 232-15-JP/21
Authors: Menoscal Cañizares Frank Anthony , García Segarra Holger Geovanny
Published: January 2025

El acceso al agua potable es un derecho fundamental reconocido a nivel internacional y que es vital para la existencia humana. En el Ecuador, este derecho ha sido confirmado y reconocido a través de diferentes normativas legales. Este artículo propone analizar el derecho humano al agua mediante la revisión y análisis jurisprudencial, lo que permitirá examinar los principios y fundamentos legales que respaldan este derecho dentro del ordenamiento jurídico nacional para identificar sus principales implicaciones tanto para la ciudadanía como para el Estado. Asimismo, se explorarán las consecuencias sociales y ambientales de esta decisión, considerando la importancia de una gestión sostenible de los recursos hídricos y su efecto en la calidad de vida de los ciudadanos. Este estudio se basa en un enfoque cualitativo, dado que implica un examen minucioso de las dimensiones sociales, jurídicas y políticas asociadas al acceso, manejo y protección del agua. La revisión de diversas fuentes bibliográficas y la evaluación de los fallos judiciales, incluidas las resoluciones de la Corte Constitucional permitirá conocer si, después de 15 años de reconocimiento constitucional, el Estado ecuatoriano ha logrado garantizar efectivamente el derecho al acceso al agua, teniendo en cuenta los retos que aún persisten en su aplicación.
МЕДИАКОММУНИКАЦИИ СТРАН ПРИКАСПИЯ В УСЛОВИЯХ ИНФОРМАЦИОННОЙ ГЛОБАЛИЗАЦИИ
Authors: Байбатырова Н.М. , Данилова Ю.С. , Бекуров Р.В.
Published: January 2025

Статья посвящена анализу влияния процессов глобализации на медийное пространство Прикаспийского макрорегиона. Исследуется специфика информационных потоков при освещении взаимоотношений России, Азербайджана, Казахстана, Туркменистана и Ирана. Процесс медиаглобализации обозначен как линейный процесс, при этом возрастают масштаб и темпы кросс-культурных коммуникаций. Сделан вывод о том, что стратегическое значение Прикаспийского макрорегиона растет, поэтому становится очевидной важность информационного транслирования интересов каждого из пяти приграничных государств.

The article is devoted to the analysis of the impact of globalization processes on the media space of the Caspian region. The specificity of information flows generated by the press is studied when covering the relations between Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Iran. Globalization affects most areas of activity of various social institutions, including the mass media. Mass media, social networks, digital platforms are considered as actors of multicultural interaction of the Caspian states. The Caspian region, which is distinguished by a strategically important cultural, historical, political, economic geolocation, is reaching the level of acquiring a single media space. It is concluded that the strategic importance of the Caspian macroregion is growing every year, so the importance of information broadcasting of the interests of each of the five border states becomes obvious. They are increasingly entering into an open dialogue with each other in order to consolidate the efforts of mutually beneficial cooperation in the Caspian macroregion. At the same time, interaction in the media field is simultaneously carried out between several parties, since multipolar communication prevails in the modern world.
Statistiques ou statistique? Que peut apporter la théorie des représentations sociales à la compréhension de son enseignement?
Authors: Bihan-Poudec Alain
Published: January 2025

Si l’enseignement de la statistique apparaît bien aujourd’hui comme un champ de recherche spécifique (Jolliffe, 2003), les préoccupations qui le traversent sont multiples. Le présent article ambitionne de montrer la pertinence de la théorie des représentations sociales comme grille de lecture de l’enseignement de la statistique, tant au niveau de son développement que de son enseignement.
Addiction aux jeux de hasard et d’argent en ligne : comment mettre en place une prévention basée sur les preuves grâce aux Big Data ?
Authors: Luquiens Amandine
Published: January 2025

L’addiction aux jeux d’argent en ligne est devenue un grave problème de santé publique. Pour y faire face, il est possible d’utiliser les données laissées par les joueurs sur les sites de jeu. Ces données permettent de repérer l’apparition de comportements à risque, et de proposer aux intéressés des outils favorisant un jeu responsable. Peut-être faut-il, pour bénéficier d’une prévention efficace, accepter les inconvénients d’une surveillance systématisée.
FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI KUALITAS PELAYANAN ADMINISTRASI PADA KANTOR KELURAHAN PULANG PISAU
Authors: Pasaribu Muhammad Irvan Yazid Azhar
Published: January 2025

Public service is an activity carried out in order to fulfill basic needs in accordance with the basic rights of every citizen for an administrative service provided by a service provider related to the public interest. The purpose of this article is to determine the factors that influence the quality of administrative services and the role of the village government in improving the quality of services to the community at the Pulang Pisau Village Office as one of the government agencies that has the authority to provide services. Research using qualitative methods that emphasize the analysis of inductive thinking processes with the dynamics of the relationship between observed phenomena and always using scientific logic. The results of the study show the quality of administrative services at the Pulang Pisau Village Office using the five indicators of the SERVQYAL (Service Quality) model, only one indicator that works well is reliability. This is due to the accuracy of officers, clear service standards and the ability of officers to use aids and officer expertise. However, four indicators that are still not running well are Physical Evidence (Tangible) the quality of service is still low due to the discomfort of the service location and the discipline of service officers, Response (Responsiveness) that officers in the service process are not smooth and timely, Guarantee (Assurance) there are still costs for bureaucracy in service. And empathy (Emparthy) prioritizes personal interests over the interests of service users.