bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life Satisfaction and Migration Motivations of the Residents of Hulhumalé from Malé and Other Atolls
Authors: Sakamoto Akiko , Maekawa Miko , Aslam Ahmed , Laila Aishath , Kikuchi Keiko , Kaku Takuto , Kataoka Kairi , Matsuda Moeri , Taiko Kazuma , Nakayama Mikiyasu
Published: January 2025

The Maldivian government has reclaimed Hulhumalé, an artificial island, to reduce the congestion in the capital city Malé and address the rising sea levels due to climate change. The population in Hulhumalé consists mainly of migrants from Malé and other atolls. This study identifies the differences between migrants from Malé and other atolls in terms of attributes such as gender, age, previous place of residents, etc., life events that triggered migration, life satisfaction, and their motivation to migrate. An anonymous online survey was conducted in 2023–2024, and 252 responses were received from the residents of Hulhumalé. Among them, 74% were from Malé and 18% from other atolls. The gender distribution of migrants from Malé was almost balanced, with a higher proportion of men from other atolls. The availability of housing in Hulhumalé was an important life event that triggered migration for those from Malé. They reported high levels of post-migration life satisfaction and a strong intention to settle in Hulhumalé. Conversely, migrants from other atolls reported lower levels of post-migration life satisfaction and a lower intention to settle than those from Malé. Pre-migration expectations of migrants from Malé included new, clean housing, a quiet and pollution-free environment, and affordable living and housing costs. In contrast, migrants from other atolls prioritized job, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and transport accessibility. These results suggest that in order to integrate migrants from other atolls with those from Malé, apart from the provision of housing, comprehensive social development in Hulhumalé is needed.
Dysfunction of the Windlass Mechanism Is Associated with Hallux Rigidus
Authors: Kihara Takumi , Kimura Tadashi , Suzuki Naoki , Hattori Asaki , Saito Mitsuru , Kubota Makoto
Published: January 2025

Background:

The cause of hallux rigidus remains controversial. However, it is assumed that dysfunction of the windlass mechanism and metatarsus primus elevatus play a role in the pathology. Three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) imaging is ideal for analysis of movements of the foot, which involve 3D and rotational motion. The purpose of the present study was to compare the windlass mechanism in healthy normal feet with that in feet with hallux rigidus by 3D CT imaging.

Methods:

A total of 17 feet with hallux rigidus and 21 normal feet were selected. Hallux rigidus was classified as grade 1 or 2 with use of the Coughlin and Shurnas system. CT imaging was performed during weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing with the first metatarsophalangeal joint in a neutral position or in 30° of dorsiflexion. We measured the rotation of each joint and the height of the navicular during dorsiflexion and weight-bearing. We also compared changes in the tarsometatarsal joint and metatarsus primus elevatus in the neutral position between the non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing conditions.

Results:

During dorsiflexion, there were significant differences between the 2 groups in eversion and adduction at the talonavicular and talocalcaneal joints (p < 0.05), with less movement of bones in the hallux rigidus group. There was a significantly greater increase in height of the navicular in the control group than in the hallux rigidus group (1.2 ± 0.6 mm versus 0.7 ± 0.6 mm; p = 0.02). There was also a significant difference in metatarsus primus elevatus during the non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing conditions (p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Hallux rigidus restricts the movement of the Chopart joint and hindfoot associated with dorsiflexion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, suggesting an association between hallux rigidus and windlass mechanism dysfunction.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
CMMPlay y valor público: consumo y plataformización de la televisión autonómica castellanomanchega desde la perspectiva de la audiencia
Authors: López Espada Luz María , Cañedo Azahara
Published: January 2025

Platformisation has structurally changed media systems and forced public television to develop new business models via platforms. In this context, and based on the paradigm of public value that guides their management, knowledge of citizens' perceptions is key to the fulfilment of the public service mission of these corporations. Therefore, based on the case study of Castilla-La Mancha Media (CMM), this study deciphers how the audience values the process of platformisation of CMM and what consumer relationship it establishes with CMMPlay. Based on 28 in-depth interviews, the results indicate that citizens do not yet have CMMPlay consumption routines and prefer to consume via linear television. The audiences confirm that they have not migrated to CMMPlay because they are not familiar with the programmatic offer and because they have difficulties using the platform.
Transient Flow Analysis of Multistage Fractured Horizontal Wells with Varied Natural Fractures Connection Relationships
Authors: Han Jiapeng , Chen Zhiming , Zhou Biao
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we introduce a semianalytical model for analyzing the transient pressure behavior of a multistage fractured horizontal well (MFHW) with varying fracture distributions, and the pressure distribution in matrix and fracture networks. The model focuses on both matrix and fracture network domains. Matrix flow is simulated using the line-source function, with 1D flow assumed for fractures. The block center grid analysis technique is used to simulate pressure within the fracture network, utilizing the principle of pressure superposition for matrix pressure calculations.

First, the accuracy of the proposed model is confirmed by comparing its results with the numerical model. Then, we identify six flow stages in an MFHW with better-connected natural fractures (NFs): bilinear flow, NFs fluid supply, linear flow, early pseudoradial flow, elliptical flow, and latter pseudoradial flow. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis on operational factors [cluster spacing (CS), stage spacing, stage number, hydraulic fracture (HF) half-length, and fracture conductivity] and geological factors (NF distribution) evaluates their impact on dimensionless pressure and its derivative. The pressure distribution characteristics across different flow regimes were also analyzed using fracture and matrix pressure distribution maps. These analyses offer valuable insights into the development of MFHWs in reservoirs with NFs. A case study in the Lucaogou shale oil reservoir of the Junggar Basin demonstrates that varying connectivity of NFs significantly impacts the pressure transient behavior of an MFHW. Neglecting the influence of NFs resulted in higher errors compared with models with NFs, highlighting the critical role of NFs in accurately characterizing reservoir behavior.
A comparative analysis of community pharmacists’ involvement in HIV/AIDS services before and after training interventions in Nigeria
Authors: Oseni Yejide Olukemi , Erhun Wilson Oyekigho
Published: January 2025

Background
Community pharmacists' expanded roles in the delivery of HIV testing services (HTSs) and antiretroviral (ARV) medication therapy management (MTM) have been shown to improve with training interventions, but this has not been evaluated in Nigeria. This study evaluated community pharmacists' involvement in the delivery of HIV/AIDS services in community pharmacies in Nigeria before and after a training intervention and the value of the services added to community pharmacy practices.
Methods:
A before-and-after intervention study was conducted in 2019 among 45 selected community pharmacists in Oyo State, Nigeria. A semistructured questionnaire on a 5-point Likert scale was administered to assess their involvement, with 8 items for HTS and 9 items for ARV/MTM services before and after a training intervention. The data were analysed via descriptive and inferential statistics, and the p value was set at ≤ 0.05.
Results:
At the baseline survey, 17.8% of the respondents were involved in rapid HIV test services, while all the respondents were involved after training. The total mean total score for HTS after training was 31.80 ± 9.824, whereas it was 21.38 ± 16.542 before training (range 8–40, midpoint = 24, p ≤ 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the number of ARV/MTM services offered before (23.27 ± 18.896) and after (23.71 ± 13.441) the training programme (range 9–45, midpoint = 27, p > 0.05). The barriers to integrating HIV/AIDS services into community pharmacy practices before and after the training program were significantly lower after training (p ≤ 0.05), with the exception of the absence of financial compensation (p > 0.05). The services increased and encouraged patronage and patient inflow into the pharmacy (33.3%), where more clients in the community were tested and aware of their status (11.1%). Community pharmacists became more relevant in the community and had an improved positive image (11.1%), whereas the activities increased the knowledge and skills of pharmacists of HIV services (8.9%), among others.
Conclusion
Community pharmacists’ involvement in HIV/AIDS services was low before training. However, training interventions have been shown to improve HIV test services. For improved service delivery, the government should consider the remuneration of community pharmacists and possibly incorporate them into the healthcare system and designate them as PHC centers.
Mental Health Issues and Viral Suppression Among People Living with HIV/AIDS on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) in Southeast Nigeria.
Authors: Obokon Gabriel Omen , Oparaocha Evangeline Tochi , Chukwuocha Uchechukwu M. , Dozie Ugonma Winnie , Chukwu Rita Ogechi , Enejoh Victor
Published: January 2025

Background
The intersection of mental health issues and HIV/AIDS poses a critical challenge in the comprehensive care and management of individuals living with HIV. People Living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART struggle with not only the physical aspects of the condition but also the psychological implications associated with it. HIV remain a significant health challenge in South-eastern Nigeria, with sub-optimal viral-suppression among PLHIV on ART. Understanding the intricate relationship between mental health problems and viral-suppression among PLHIV on ART becomes imperative. Therefore, this study explores the relationship between mental health issues and viral-suppression among this population in South-eastern, Nigeria.
Methods
An hospital-based unmatched Case-control study was conducted among 1,202 PLHIV, aged ≥10yrs and on ART. Cases were people living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART with suppressed viral load, while controls were those with non-suppressed viral load. Multi-stage random sampling techniques was utilized in selecting study participants. Patient-Health-Questionnaire (PHQ-2/PHQ-9), Perceived-Stress-Scale (PSS-10) and internalized AIDS-related stigma-scale (IA-RSS) were used to measure depression, perceived-stress and HIV-related stigma. Data were entered into SPSS Version-26 software and analyzed using descriptive statistics; (percentages, mean, standard deviation), and inferential statistics using logistic regression at <0.05 statistical significance.
Result
Majority were females (62.2%). (30.4%) and 10.9% were aged 25–34yrs and ≥55yrs respectively. Mean age was 17.7years (St. dev =12.2years). Depression (50.5%) was prevalent among participants, of which 25%, 22% and 53% were mildly, moderately and severely depressed. 44.1%, 23.4% and 32.5% had low, moderate and high perceived-stress, while 46.2% and 53.2% recorded high and low HIV-related stigma. Depression (p<0.001: Mild: AOR=0.37, 95% CI= 0.23-0.58; moderate: AOR=0.26, 95% CI= 0.15-0.44; severe: AOR=0.18, 95% CI= 0.11-0.29) and perceived-stress (p<0.001: AOR= 0.43, 95% CI= 0.28-0.67) were found to be significantly associated with viral suppression among PLHIV on ART.
Conclusion:
This study reveals a significant prevalence of depression and perceived stress among PLHIV on ART, indicating the urgent need for integrated mental health interventions within HIV care programs. Addressing mental health challenges through targeted support and interventions is essential to enhance the overall well-being of PLHIV and improve viral suppression outcomes in this population.
Novel Biomarkers for Ankylosing Spondylitis through Proteomic Profiling of Serum-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Sung Soo-Eun , Park Wook-Tae , Choi Joo-Hee , Kim Young-In , Ma Min-Jung , Son Wan-Suk , Park Sangbum , Lim Ju-Hyeon , Seo Min-Soo , Lee Gun Woo
Published: January 2025

The objective of this study is to analyze the protein composition of extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from the serum of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients to identify potential biomarkers that could enable the early diagnosis and intervention of this condition. Serum samples were collected from AS patients and healthy controls. EVs were isolated from these samples using ExoQuick® ULTRA solution, and their morphology, size, and concentration were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Proteins within the EVs were identified and quantified through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), followed by validation of key proteins using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data were analyzed to identify proteins significantly upregulated in AS patients compared with the levels in controls. Here, through LC-MS/MS analysis, we demonstrated that FBLN1, VWF, CFHR2, and LYZ expression were significantly upregulated in serum-derived EVs from AS patients compared with the levels in healthy controls. These findings were further validated by ELISA, confirming the potential utility of serum-derived EVs as specific biomarkers for AS. The elevated levels of FBLN1, VWF, CFHR2, and LYZ in the EVs of AS patients represent promising candidates for biomarkers in the early diagnosis and treatment of AS. Further research should be performed to validate these findings and explore their clinical applicability.
Exploring Human Activity Recognition Systems: Insights from Computer Vision Approaches
Authors: Sundaresan K , Jayarajan P , Nallakumar R
Published: January 2025

Human Activity Recognition (HAR) through computer vision techniques has emerged as a pivotal research domain within computer science, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, security, and intelligent environments. This paper provides an extensive review of cutting-edge methodologies for identifying human activities from video and image data. Emphasis is placed on recent developments in deep learning, notably the application of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), 3D CNNs, and Transformer-based models for action recognition. We examine a variety of datasets, benchmarks, and associated challenges, while also introducing an improved methodology that combines spatial and temporal feature learning. The findings indicate that hybrid models that integrate CNNs and Transformers surpass conventional methods, delivering enhanced accuracy and resilience. Lastly, the paper addresses existing limitations and proposes directions for future research, particularly in the realms of real-time HAR and the integration of multimodal sensors.
The perioperative analgesic effects of thoracolumbar interfacial block and erector spinae plane block for open lumbar fusion: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Phuong V. H. , Duc Tran Viet , Duyen N. T. , Tu N. H.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to compare the pain reduction effectiveness of thoracolumbar interfascial plane (TLIP) block with erector spinae plane (ESP) block for open lumbar fusion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From October 2021 to October 2022, 100 patients participated in a randomized prospective intervention study at Hanoi Medical University Hospital. The patients were randomly assigned to three groups: the control group (group C, n = 33), the TLIP group (group T, n = 34), and the ESP group (group E, n = 33). The pain status of the patients in three groups was assessed using the intraoperative mean Analgesia Nociception Index (ANIm), postoperative the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) at rest and on movement at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24 hour safter surgery. The intraoperative fentanyl and morphine consumption at 12 and 24 hour postoperatively were recorded. RESULTS: the ANIm of group C was the lowest at most of the time points studied during surgery (p < 0.05). Group E consumed the least fentanyl intraoperatively (p < 0.001). The postoperative NRS at rest and on movement was lowest in group E and highest in group C (p < 0.05). At 12 hours and 24 hours following surgery, group E's morphine consumption was lowest (p < 0.001). The postoperative initial mobilization and hospital stay were lowest in group E and highest in group C (p < 0.001 and p = 0.039, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: both ESP and TLIP block provide good pain relief during and after open lumbar fusion. However, ESP block is more successful than TLIP block in relieving perioperative pain.
Психоэмоциональное состояние среднего медицинского персонала отделений реанимации и интенсивной терапии при работе с пациентами, инфицированными COVID-19: сравнительное поперечное анкетное исследование
Authors: Каштанов А. Д. , Карташова Е. В. , Галата А. А. , Алиев В. А. , Яворовский Андрей Георгиевич , Волель Б. А. , Васильев Ю. Л. , Ибрахим С. С.
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION: Work in intensive care units (ICUs) is one of the most difficult and can lead to the development of psychoemotional disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this problem has become more urgent. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the psychoemotional state of nursing staff working in ICUs with patients infected with COVID-19. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An anonymous online survey was conducted from June 2021 to March 2022 on the psychoemotion of nurses (n = 476). To assess their psychoemotional status, the Maslach Burnout Inventory was used, adapted by N.E. Vodopyanova; the questionnaire for measuring aggressive and hostile reactions by A. Bass and A. Darki; and the standardized professional stress scale developed by K. Weissmann. RESULTS: Nurses in the ICU who work with patients infected with COVID-19 (ICU COVID+) are more likely to experience depersonalization, decreased personal achievement, and more frequent verbal and indirect aggression. (14.82/12.76 and 38/31 points, respectively, according to the methods used for this comparison group). Nurses who do not work with COVID+ patients (ICU “green” zone) are more prone to emotional exhaustion and physical aggression. (28.96/ 25.78, respectively). Experienced nurses in both COVID– and ICU COVID+ units have a higher level of psychological well-being, but the depersonalisation of nurses increases as their length of service increases. CONCLUSIONS: Nurses working in COVID+ ICUs show a larger number of signs of psychological stress than those from the "green" ICU.
К истории создания Архангельской научной школы анестезиологии и реаниматологии
Authors: Недашковский Эдуард Владимирович , Унгуряну Т. Н. , Свирский Д. А.
Published: January 2025

Nowadays, it is difficult to overestimate the importance of studying history in general and the history of medicine in particular. Considering the history of Arkhangelsk medicine, there is a desire to highlight the pages that reflect the rapid development of the scientific school of anesthesiology and reanimatology. The authors of this article analyzed the twenty-year stage of development in the rank of the anesthesiology and reanimatology course and the thirty-year development path of the anesthesiology and reanimatology department of the Northern State Medical University (NSMU).
Центральное венозное давление как показатель возможной эффективности инфузионной терапии: систематический обзор и метаанализ
Authors: Кузнецов И. В. , Берикашвили Л. Б. , Рыжков П. В. , Короленок Е. М. , Ядгаров М. Я. , Поляков П. А. , Скворцов А. Е. , Яковлев А. А. , Лихванцев Валерий Владимирович
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION: Central venous pressure (CVP) has long been considered one of the most reliable methods for assessing volemic status and responsiveness to infusion therapy in patients in intensive care. In recent years, attitudes toward CVP have shifted dramatically, but neither the published data nor the emergence of methods with proven efficacy have significantly changed practicing anesthesiologists' reliance on CVP measurement for diagnostic accuracy. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess the existing data on the diagnostic accuracy of CVP in predicting patients' response to infusion therapy and to identify factors that influence these results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on prospective cohort studies that examined the diagnostic accuracy of CVP in predicting response to infusion therapy. The primary endpoint was the area under the ROC curve (AUROC). The literature search was performed in the PubMed and CENTRAL databases up to March 2024. Meta-regression was used to assess the impact of covariates, including age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). Risk of bias was evaluated using the QUADAS-2 tool, and the certainty of evidence was assessed by the GRADE approach. RESULTS: A total of 84 studies, comprising data from 3729 patients (4472 observations), were included in the meta-analysis. The overall AUROC for CVP was 0.6 (95% CI [0.57; 0.62]), indicating low diagnostic accuracy (quality of evidence: moderate). The result was consistent in both ICU and perioperative settings. The diagnostic accuracy of CVP did not depend on ICU profile or surgical setting. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 61 % and 65 %, respectively. Univariate meta-regression showed no significant impact of age, sex, or BMI on the results. Subgroup analysis indicated that mechanical ventilation and infusion load volume did not influence CVP's diagnostic accuracy. CONCLUSIONS: CVP has low diagnostic accuracy for assessing responsiveness to infusion therapy (moderate quality of evidence). Further studies are needed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of extreme CVP values, as well as other simple and accessible methods that could potentially replace this measure in clinical practice.
Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Erigeron bonariensis L.: A therapeutic weed
Authors: Sharma Supriya Kumari , Alam Afroz
Published: January 2025

Erigeron bonariensis L. is a weed belonging to the Asteraceae family and possesses diverse medicinal properties. It is known to have therapeutic uses, including infection management and disease treatment. The current research aims to investigate the pharmacological and phytochemical properties of Erigeron bonariensis plant extracts (leaves and shoots). A thorough examination of diverse phytochemicals was carried out through standardized procedures, and the quantitative assessment was evaluated through spectral analysis. The plant extract was subjected to a pharmacological investigation, conclusively establishing its potent antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl 1-picryl-hydrazyl) scavenging assay and NOSA (Nitric Oxide scavenging) assay, while antimicrobial activity was determined through the disc diffusion method. The phytochemical screening disclosed the presence of alkaloids, sterols, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, fixed oils and fats, carbohydrates, phenols, glycosides, and saponins. The DPPH and NOSA assay revealed that the extract had a significant scavenging capacity. The methanolic leaf extracts exhibited higher efficacy against specific varieties of Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis) and few fungal species (Aspergillus niger and Fusarium oxysporum) in contrast to the extract obtained from the shoot, as evidenced by the antimicrobial tests conducted. The outcomes indicate that the leaves of Erigeron bonariensis, when prepared in methanol, show greater antioxidant and antimicrobial activities than the shoots do. It would be highly beneficial to isolate the specific bioactive compounds responsible for natural substances' therapeutic properties. This approach can facilitate the development of effective treatments for various health conditions in the future.
Chemical and bioactive potential of the nests of Polistes nimpha, Polistes dominula, and Vespa crabro (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)
Authors: Ertürk Ömer , Can Zehra , Yaman Mustafa
Published: January 2025

This work was accomplished to establish the chemical components and bioactivity potential of the nest materials of Polistes nimpha (Christ), Polistes dominula (Christ), and Vespa crabro (L.). The biological and chemical compounds of materials and their molecular functionalities were detected using FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) method, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate) free radical method, and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis. Finally, the bioactivity potentials of nest extracts were assayed and phenolic components were determined. C, N, O, Na, Ca, K, Mg, Al, Si are the elemental components of the nest materials. All nest extracts of three species had high biological activity against nine bacteria and one fungus causing common infections. The maximum antibacterial and antifungal activity was seen when gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa, gram-positive Bacillus cereus, and gram-positive Candida albicans were exposed to ethanol extracts of nest samples in 25 μL. High antioxidant activity can be found in the nest extracts. These extracts might help researchers find novel antifungal and antibacterial substances.
The Analysis of Translation Technique and Quality in Translating Meme Image
Authors: Romita Romita , Sujatmiko Sujatmiko
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to find (1) the translation techniques applied by students in translating meme images, (2) the translation quality of translating meme images and (3) the student problems in translating meme images. This research used a qualitative with case study approach, and the data collection was done by content analysis, Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and interview, so that it could explore more deeply related problems found at English Department at Universitas PGRI Yogyakarta. The subjects of this research were 27  fourth semester students. The results of this study showed that the students applied 9 types of translation techniques to meme images, namely established equivalent, pure borrowing, addition, modulation, generalization, natural borrowing, explicitation, literal translation, and description. The results of the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with experts showed that the quality of the translations of meme images by the students was 2,44 (less accurate), 2,54 (less acceptable) and 2,78 (readable). The interviews with 10 students showed that the problems in translating meme images were lack of vocabulary, confusion with meme images and not understanding the context. It was concluded that the translation techniques applied by the students contributed to the quality of the translation. The description technique contributed negatively to the accuracy of meme image translation, while the addition technique contributed negatively to the acceptability, and the established equivalent technique contributed positively to the readability in meme image translation.
Modeling Objects with Artificial Intelligence Based Image Processing Techniques: Object Detection with Mask R-CNN
Authors: Ereken Ömer Faruk , Tarhan Çiğdem
Published: January 2025

Object detection and classification on digital images have great importance in the digitalizing world. After deep learning methods started being implemented for object detection, classification and segmentation a rapid development has been monitored in the field. One of the most successful methods in the field is Mask R-CNN. It can be used in order to detect and segment purposes for many different objects. This study contains the use of Mask R-CNN for weapon detection, specifically handguns. Nowadays, there are many cameras in public areas and these cameras can detect weapons before a forensic incident. Our model achieved a mean average precision (mAP) of 0.78 in the detection of handguns on test data. Our findings verify the potential of deep learning in security by detecting threats in images and live videos.
Cultural Sustainability Tourism Lessons from the Amazon to the Mediterranean
Authors: Jackson Sharon , Espinoza Rosa , Diomantaraki Stella
Published: January 2025

Increasing global sustainability crises and climate-change are impacting on biodiversity loss. The terms ‘net-zero’, ‘green transition and ‘green-skills’ are increasingly used, but many employees in the tourism sector do not know what this means, nor the relevance of green-skills in their own roles.
This exploration addresses an overlooked area of workplace learning, competencies development, for the people expected to drive the massive levels of change required in the tourism sector in Greece. The aim is a multidisciplinary, conceptual framework for knowledge, skills and attitudes, in sustainable tourism management, underpinned by theory in learning transfer and experiential learning, with pedagogy anchored in community-cultural insight, including bee-keeping, and storytelling for making sense of sustainable tourism development.   
Through an enquiry lens of Greece tourism, the methodology reviews academic and practitioner studies about sustainable tourism education and citizen-science models from The Amazon (Peru). 
Findings suggest a ‘talk-act’ gap as many Greek tourism professionals do not know what green management competencies are, but think they do, which can manifest in inadequate skills. Adaptation of citizen-science style learning and storytelling, focused on bees and honey, could play a role in developing sustainability management competencies for tourism sector employees in Greece, with the potential for adaptation and escalation for other locations.
Primates in zoo stressed by the absence of visitors: A model provided by the covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Albarrán Tamayo Froylán , Barroso Padilla J. J. , Carpio Valdivia M. A. , Sandoval Higareda A. E. , Bañuelos Hernández Bernardo , Cruz Hernández Andrés
Published: January 2025

The stress suffered by other animal species has not been considered in many situations of interaction with humans. Captive animals in zoos have constant interactions with their keepers, their doctors and with visitors. The objective of our study was to better understand the influence of visitors on the stress of captive animals. Like others around the world, the Zoo in Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico, closed its doors to visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic. We took advantage of this period to measure hair cortisol in mammals after months without visitors and months after visitors returned. Samples were taken whenever there was an opportunity for handling. Our results did not show a significant difference when considering all specimens sampled, however, we found that primates were significantly more stressed in the absence of visitors, as opposed to the rest of the animals who showed more stress with the presence of visitors, although not significantly. This supports the hypothesis that some animals have an adaptation to the presence of the public and even, in the case of primates, interaction with humans could become a beneficial factor.
A comparative study of machine learning models for river topography prediction under different data abundance
Authors: Liu Yang , Yang Zhonghua , Li Wenhai , Li Ming
Published: January 2025

Fast and accurate prediction of river topography is important for river management and channel regulation. In this study, three machine learning models, namely fully connected artificial neural networks (FCANN), recurrent neural networks (RNN) and long-short time memory neural networks (LSTM) are developed and evaluated for river topography prediction under four different data abundance conditions. The results show that all three machine learning models can achieve satisfactory accuracy in the river topography prediction problem with sufficient data abundance, among them the LSTM has the best performance, with the mean absolute errors of 0.007m and 0.038m at day and month intervals, and the mean absolute percentage errors of 0.95% and 5.54%. Data abundance has a greater impact on prediction accuracy than that of model complexity. The model prediction error contours also show that the errors are spatially correlated and distributed in strips along the river flow direction. Sensitivity and uncertainty analysis were used to assess variable importance and the robustness of the model. This work improves understanding of the effect of data abundance and model selection on river topography prediction problems.
Performance enhancement of models through discrete wavelet transform for streamflow forecasting in Çarşamba River, Türkiye
Authors: Tuğrul Türker , Hinis Mehmet Ali
Published: January 2025

Streamflow forecasts play an active role in hydrological planning and taking precautions against natural disasters. Streamflow prediction models are frequently used by scientists, especially in dam management, sustainable agriculture, flood control, and flood mitigation. Hence, streamflow prediction modeling was performed in this study, and six models were employed through four different machine learning (ML) algorithms, namely, the artificial neural network (ANN), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and decision tree (DT) that are well known in the literature, in order to predict the monthly streamflow of Çarşamba River, Türkiye. To further enhance model performance, wavelet transform (WT) was applied to ML algorithms. In this study, monthly average streamflow and precipitation data between 1974 and 2015 was used, and the minimum redundancy maximum relevance method (MRMR) and the cross-correlation method were performed to determine model input data. Results of this study revealed that RF had superiority over the other models before WT, followed by the SVM model. The SVM after WT (W-SVM), M04 (r: 0.9846, NSE: 0.9695, and RMSE: 0.3536) gave the most effective performance results, while the W-ANN model (r: 0.9797, NSE: 0.9588, and RMSE: 0.4108) showed the second best performance.
Study on the urban moderate scale of Dongting Lake Ecological Economic Zone based on the water resources carrying capacity
Authors: Zhan Chen , Li Zhenqiang , Peng Feifan , You Xiaoyue
Published: January 2025

The essence of urban moderate scale lies in maintaining a balanced urban population. The water resources carrying capacity is a crucial metric for assessing the urban moderate scale. Using a calculation model based on the water resources carrying capacity, this paper evaluates the urban moderate scale of 25 districts and counties in China's Dongting Lake Ecological Economic Zone and further predicts future trends using the GM-LSTM model. Results indicate that from 2010 to 2022, the urban moderate scale consistently fell below the actual urban population, leading to water resources overuse and water quality overload. Overall, the districts exhibited signs of overloading, whereas the counties showed a surplus in water resources carrying capacity. The distance coordination degree revealed a fluctuating downward trend, with most districts experiencing maladjusted development. Urban economic activity density is an important factor affecting the formation of water resources overload pattern. Predictions suggest that the urban moderate scale will continue to lag behind the actual urban population from 2023 to 2035. To achieve sustainable urban development in areas with relatively abundant water resources, it is crucial to optimize industrial structures, enhance technological innovation in wastewater treatment, and ensure that urban scale aligns with available water resources.
Development of a process model and life cycle assessment for a large water resource recovery facility and comparison of biosolids process upgrade options
Authors: Ko Daehyun , Norton John W. , Daigger Glen T.
Published: January 2025

Life cycle assessment (LCA), coupled with process modeling to develop the life cycle inventory, is a valuable tool to assess differences in environmental performance when evaluating alternatives based on sustainability (triple-bottom-line) principles. Coupled with a whole plant process model (SUMO21), an LCA assessed the environmental performance of options to upgrade biosolids management for the Great Lakes Water Authority water resource recovery facility. All five alternatives evaluated (composting plus four anaerobic digestion alternatives) were able to meet the core objectives of the biosolids management system upgrade: (1) address ageing incinerators, (2) minimize the mass of biosolids landfilled, and (3) reduce greenhouse gas emissions, compared to the existing (baseline) system. The mass of solids to be managed was reduced for the anaerobic digestion alternatives but not for the composting alternatives. Environmental impacts were reduced for the composting alternative for all six impact categories considered (global warming, eutrophication, carcinogenics, ecotoxicity, respiratory effects, and fossil fuel depletion) relative to the baseline, and further reduced for all four anaerobic digestion alternatives evaluated. The results allowed a phased implementation plan to be developed, which could be evaluated based on other factors, such as costs and operational factors.
Racial and Ethnic Equity in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Clinical Trials
Authors: Milinic Tijana , Leary Peter J. , Barros Lia M.
Published: January 2025

Over the last several decades, many new therapies have been developed for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). These therapies have led to meaningful improvements in patient outcomes. Despite these advances, little is known about disparities in PAH care and even less is known about equity in clinical trial inclusion. Lack of equitable representation in PAH clinical trials may impact our understanding of risks and benefits in specific populations and may limit uptake of new therapies in minoritized populations. In this review, we begin to explore the racial and ethnic breakdown of patients receiving care for PAH and among participants who take part in clinic trials. We suggest that we have not yet achieved our goal of equitable representation in clinical trials and finish with a discussion of potential barriers and pathways forward. It is likely that progress will depend on addressing a complex interplay of patient-facing and system-derived barriers to participation.
Assimetria flutuante em duas espécies de marsupiais (gracilinanus agilis e monodelphis domestica) em um fragmento do semiárido brasileiro
Authors:   , Barros Luiz Fernando Clemente
Published: January 2025

A assimetria flutuante é um exemplo de modificação que se dá através da diferença existente entre os planos simétricos, podendo ser ocasionada por distúrbios ambientais e/ou genético. Uma das causas mais comuns de distúrbios ambientais é a fragmentação de hábitats que ocasiona estresse durante o desenvolvimento dos organismos, originando em alterações em suas estruturas corporais. Este trabalho foi desenvolvido no bioma Caatinga e avaliou a diferença do plano simétrico de três caracteres corporais de duas espécies de marsupiais, Monodelphis domestica e Gracilinanus agilis em um fragmento de mata que atualmente está conservado, mas, no passado foi muito explorado. Entre Agosto de 2014 e Junho de 2016, um total de 111 indivíduos de diferentes idades e sexo foram amostrados. O resultado obtido a partir das análises estatísticas indicaram que existe dimorfismo sexual em tamanho para ambas as espécies sendo os machos maiores. As orelhas dos G. agilis apresentaram uma diminuição ao longo do tempo, com indivíduos jovens possuindo orelhas maiores, evidenciando um possível desgaste deste caractere ao longo da vida e que poderia vir a ocasionar falsa assimetria. Apesar da área de estudo ser um fragmento florestal, o baixo valor de assimetria deste estudo pode estar relacionado ao fato que esta área esteja em recuperação e bem conectada com outros fragmentos. Os resultados indicam uma maior AF em indivíduos menores de M. domestica que podem estar sofrendo pressão sobre o seu fitness e reduzindo o tamanho dos caracteres. Indivíduos maiores dessa espécie podem ser novos na população como indicativos da recuperação deste fragmento. Foi possível observar que um único caractere não pode representar a assimetria de todo o organismo e os índices de assimetria também não indicaram resultados significativos, mostrando que não foi encontrada assimetria ao avaliar os caracteres em relação à população. Ao comparar o índice de assimetria entre as espécies, foi possível observar que a espécie G. agilis apresentou maior assimetria que o M. domestica e isso pode estar relacionado com os hábitos, tamanho corporal e área de vida destes indivíduos. No entanto, a comparação com outros trabalhos é limitada por falta de informações e pelo uso de diferentes índices e formas de cálculo.
O cultivo de tilápia do Nilo Oreochromis niloticus em tanques-rede em reservatório do semiárido brasileiro é sustentável economicamente, socialmente e ambientalmente?
Authors:   , Cacho Júlio César da Silva
Published: January 2025

Preocupações com relação à sustentabilidade dos empreendimentos aquícolas bem como as modificações que eles podem proporcionar aos ambientes aquáticos são fundamentais em corpos hídricos, principalmente em reservatórios do semiárido, onde ocorre uma constante escassez de água. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a sustentabilidade ambiental, social e econômica de um sistema de cultivo de tilápias em tanques-rede em um reservatório do semiárido brasileiro. O estudo foi realizado em um sistema produção de tilápias do Nilo em tanques-rede no reservatório de Umari (5°42’13”S e 37°15’18”O), administrado por uma cooperativa de empresários. Foram realizadas análises do sedimento gerado pelos tanques-rede, bem como foram utilizados 40 indicadores de sustentabilidade, sendo que e a sustentabilidade do sistema foi modelada através do arcabouço teórico Drivers-Pressure-State-Impact-Response. Foram considerados dois cenários com cultivos reais, que operavam com as densidades de estocagem com 100 e 125 peixes/m² e quatro ciclos de cultivo anual (DENS 100 CC; DENS 125 CC, respectivamente), e dois cenários hipotéticos considerando uma densidade de 100 e 125 peixes/m², com dois ciclos de cultivo anual (DENS 100 CL; DENS 125 CL, respectivamente). As taxas de sedimentação abaixo dos tanques-rede foram significativamente superiores quando comparadas com as taxas observadas na região do reservatório sem influência da piscicultura, demonstrando que esta atividade eleva as taxas de sedimentação de nutrientes e material particulado neste reservatório, podendo contribuir para acelerar o processo de eutrofização deste ambiente aquático. Os resultados mostraram que o aumento das taxas de sedimentação foi pontual, ou seja, ainda é restrita a região de criação de O. niloticus em tanques-rede no reservatório. O estudo evidenciou que os cultivos reais apesar de terem apresentado melhores desempenhos nas sustentabilidades ambiental e social, quando comparados com os cenários hipotéticos, foram inviáveis do ponto de vista econômico, podendo causar o fim do empreendimento e consequentemente a redução dos benefícios sociais para a população local. A modelagem demonstrou ainda que alterações no aumento do tempo de cultivo e a consequente diminuição da quantidade de ciclos anuais de produção aumentou a sustentabilidade de forma global, mas ao mesmo tempo reduziu a sustentabilidade ambiental. É importante destacar que em decorrência da região semiárida brasileira apresentar características peculiares com relação à escassez de água, a baixa sustentabilidade ambiental das atividades de piscicultura intensiva em tanques-rede realizadas em reservatórios desta região podem em médio prazo comprometer economicamente e socialmente a atividade.
Contaminação por metais pesados em cisne-do-pescoço-preto (Cygnus melanocoryphus) no Sul do Brasil
Authors:   , Rosa Nathaly Nunes da
Published: January 2025

O cisne-do-pescoço-preto (Cygnus melanocoryphus), é endêmico da América do sul, e no extremo sul Brasil é encontrado na Lagoa Mangueira que está inserida parcialmente na Estação Ecológica do Taim (ESEC Taim). Essa região é caracterizada pela prática da rizicultura e seus efluentes gerados com contaminantes, são liberados na lagoa podendo afetar a vida dos organismos. Apesar disso, não há trabalhos que avaliem a contaminação por metais pesados por meio deste organismo e há poucos estudos sobre a contaminação ambiental deste local. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar as concentrações dos metais Cobre (Cu), Cádmio (Cd), Cromo (Cr), Níquel (Ni), Chumbo (Pb) e Zinco (Zn) presentes nas duas vias de excreção (fezes e penas) e uma via de circulação (sangue) de C. melanocoryphus comparando sazonalmente, entre os sexos e idades e ver se há relação entre o tamanho da 9ª rêmige da asa dessa espécie com as concentrações desses metais. Foram capturados 88 indivíduos no total, onde 61 indivíduos foram amostrados no verão, 12 no outono e 15 no inverno. Amostras de penas, sangues e fezes, foram coletadas e levadas a digestão ácida para posterior análise dos metais Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb e Zn, por espectrometria de absorção atômica. Foram feitas regressões simples para avaliar a relação entre as concentrações de metais encontrados nas origens (fezes, sangue e penas) com o comprimento da nona rêmige primária da asa de C. melancoryphus (que indica quanto tempo o indivíduo está no local). Foram feitas análises de covariância, para avaliar se as concentrações de metais nas origens diferem de acordo com a idade e o sexo dos indivíduos. Por fim, foram realizadas Anovas fatoriais, para comparar se as concentrações de metais nas penas, sangue e fezes, diferem ao longo das estações do ano. Foram observadas relações positivas entre as concentrações de Cu e Pb nas fezes, Cu e Zn nas penas e Zn no sangue (p<0,05), para os demais não foi encontrada nenhuma relação. Apenas a concentração de Zn para sexo e idade apresentou diferença significativa. E para as estações do ano, apenas Zn e Cu mostraram diferenças significativas positivas. Desta forma, as concentrações de Cd e Pb encontradas nas fezes, foram superiores a outros trabalhos que utilizam espécies de cisne, podendo assim, considerar que o C. melanocoryphus pode estar sofrendo uma contaminação local. Já para os outros metais Cu e Zn, nas penas fezes e sangue, são inferiores ou iguais a outros trabalhos, e como são metais essenciais não apresentam toxicidade para o organismo.
Smart Applications of Lanthanide Chelates-based Luminescent Probes in
Bio-imaging
Authors: Santangelo Maria Chiara , Lucchesi Leonardo , Papa Leonardo , Rossi Annachiara , Egizzo Gaia , Fratello Giusy Laura , Favero Lucilla , Pineschi Mauro , Di Bussolo Valeria , Di Pietro Sebastiano
Published: January 2025

Luminescent Lanthanide (III) (Ln (III)) bioprobes (LLBs) have been extensively used in
the last two decades as intracellular molecular probes in bio-imaging for the efficient revelation of
analytes, to signal intracellular events (enzymes/protein activity, antigen-antibody interaction), target
specific organelles, and determine parameters of particular biophysical interest, to gain important
insights on pathologies or diseases. The choice of using a luminescent Ln (III) coordination
compound with respect to a common organic fluorophore is intimately connected to how their photophysical
sensitization (antenna effect) can be finely tuned and especially triggered to respond
(even quantitatively) to a certain biophysical event, condition or analyte. While there are other reviews
focused on how to design chromophoric ligands for an efficient sensitization of Ln (III) ions,
both in the visible and NIR region, this mini-review is application-driven: it is a small collection of
particularly interesting examples where the LLB’s emissive information is acquired by imaging the
emission intensity and/or the fluorescence lifetime (fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy,
FLIM).