bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Multi-Stage Project Portfolio Selection Considering Integrating Lifecycle and Interactions
Authors: Qiu Biaobiao , Dou Yajie , Chen Ziyi
Published: October 2024

Project portfolio selection is essential for a company to achieve its strategic goals. Due to constraints such as budget and manpower, companies cannot undertake all projects simultaneously and must prioritize those offering the highest value. Projects often interact and progress through various phases, adding complexity to the selection process. To address these challenges, this study introduces a model that accounts for the multi-stage execution of projects, their interactions, and multiple objectives. A novel multi-objective optimization algorithm is developed to solve this problem, along with a refined project selection method designed to offer decision-makers enhanced insights. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
The Rural Sport Event—The Atmosphere from the Participants’ Perspective
Authors: Ossowska Luiza , Kloskowski Dariusz , Janiszewska Dorota
Published: October 2024

Rural sport events can play an important role in the sustainable development of rural areas, and bring various benefits. The atmosphere of a rural sport event covers the character and feeling of a place and situation. The aim of this article is to assess the impact of rural sport event atmosphere on participants. Research was conducted using the IPA method (Importance–Performance Analysis). On 22 January 2022, 127 respondents assessed the atmosphere of a running sport event—before the run defining “importance”, and after the run defining “performance” (a survey questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale was used). The research covers three groups of factors: event organization (rules and safety, management and hosting, sport competition class), relationships between participants (integration, sharing passion, ability to compete), and event place (attractiveness of the area, attractiveness of the sport competition place, and the will to return to the place). For both the “importance” and “performance” scales, the examined factors received high values (from 3.80 to 4.77). The conducted research shows that atmosphere is a key element when building a rural sport event. Satisfaction with a running event has a positive impact on the perception of the event and its atmospheric components.
Prigogine’s Second Law and Determination of the EUP and GUP Parameters in Small Black Hole Thermodynamics
Authors: Sonnino Giorgio
Published: October 2024

In 1974, Stephen Hawking made the groundbreaking discovery that black holes emit thermal radiation, characterized by a specific temperature now known as the Hawking temperature. While his original derivation is intricate, retrieving the exact expressions for black hole temperature and entropy in a simpler, more intuitive way without losing the core physical principles behind Hawking’s assumptions is possible. This is obtained by employing the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, which is known to be connected to thenvacuum fluctuation. This exercise allows us to easily perform more complex calculations involving the effects of quantum gravity. This work aims to answer the following question: Is it possible to reconcile Prigogine’s second law of thermodynamics for open systems and the second law of black hole dynamics with Hawking radiation? Due to quantum gravity effects, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle has been extended to the Generalized Uncertainty Principle (GUP) and successively to the Extended Uncertainty Principle (EUP). The expression for the EUP parameter is obtained by conjecturing that Prigogine’s second law of thermodynamics and the second law of black holes are not violated by the Hawking thermal radiation mechanism. The modified expression for the entropy of a Schwarzschild black hole is also derived.
Cognitive Assessment in HTLV-1 Patients Followed Up at a Reference Center in Salvador, Brazil
Authors: Bordallo Luísa , Montaño-Castellón Iris , Lins-Kusterer Liliane , Brites Carlos
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is endemic to Brazil, and there is still no specific treatment for these patients. The literature shows that few studies have described the cognitive impairment associated with an HTLV-1 infection, with none of them examining the population of Salvador, where there are approximately forty thousand people infected with the virus. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of cognitive impairment among individuals with HTLV-1. In addition, investigate whether sociodemographic aspects, time since the diagnosis of infection, and the diagnosis of HTLV-Associated Myelopatia/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (HAM/TSP) or depression are associated with cognitive impairment in this population. Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study that consisted of consecutively approaching 100 HTLV-1 patients during outpatient care at a referral center followed by the administration of three questionnaires— the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Beck’s Depression Inventory. Results: The prevalence of cognitive impairment found was 71% using the MMSE and 82% using the MoCA. There was a statistically significant association between the cognitive dysfunction and the variables of age and education according to the MoCA analysis but not the MMSE data. Diagnosis of HAM/TSP was correlated with cognitive impairment using the MMSE but not the MoCA. The prevalence of depression was 20%, and there was no association between cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms in these patients. Conclusions: The findings of this study demonstrate a correlation between cognitive dysfunction and HTVL-1 infection, with a more evident involvement of executive functions and memory. Larger studies are needed to clarify the association between cognitive dysfunction, age, education, and the diagnosis of HAM/TSP.
The Trajectory of Antibody Responses One Year Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Indigenous Individuals in the Southwest United States
Authors: Smith Claire P. , Hartman Rachel M. , Kugler Alexa M. , Little Verlena , Baker Owen R. , Fairlie Tarayn A. , Fernandez Reinaldo E. , Hagen Melissa B. , Honie Elvira , Laeyendecker Oliver , Midgley Claire M. , Parker Dennie , Sandoval Marqia , Takahashi Saki , Hammitt Laura L. , Sutcliffe Catherine G.
Published: October 2024

SARS-CoV-2 antibody kinetics based on immunologic history is not fully understood. We analyzed anti-spike and anti-nucleocapsid antibody responses following acute infection in a cohort of Indigenous persons. The models of peak concentrations and decay rates estimated that one year after infection, participants would serorevert for anti-nucleocapsid antibodies and remain seropositive for anti-spike antibodies. The peak anti-spike concentrations were higher for individuals vaccinated prior to infection, but the decay rates were similar across immunologic status groups. Children had significantly lower peak anti-spike concentrations than adults. This study affirms the importance of continued vaccination to maintain high levels of immunity in the face of waning immunity.
Network Analysis of Dysregulated Immune Response to COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Chang Yi-Shin , Lee Jessica M. , Huang Kai , Vagts Christen L. , Ascoli Christian , Edafetanure-Ibeh Russell , Huang Yue , Cherian Ruth A. , Sarup Nandini , Warpecha Samantha R. , Hwang Sunghyun , Goel Rhea , Turturice Benjamin A. , Schott Cody , Martinez Montserrat H. , Finn Patricia W. , Perkins David L.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) results in immune dysfunction that is characterized by both systemic inflammation and immune incompetence, leading to impaired responses to vaccination. Methods: To unravel the complex regulatory immune interplay in ESRD, we performed the network-based transcriptomic profiling of ESRD patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD) and matched healthy controls (HCs) who received the two-dose regimen of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2. Results: Co-expression networks based on blood transcription modules (BTMs) of genes differentially expressed between the HD and HC groups revealed co-expression patterns that were highly similar between the two groups but weaker in magnitude in the HD compared to HC subjects. These networks also showed weakened coregulation between BTMs within the dendritic cell (DC) family as well as with other BTM families involved with innate immunity. The gene regulatory networks of the most enriched BTMs, likewise, highlighted weakened targeting by transcription factors of key genes implicated in DC, natural killer (NK) cell, and T cell activation and function. The computational deconvolution of immune cell populations further bolstered these findings with discrepant proportions of conventional DC subtypes, NK T cells, and CD8+ T cells in HD subjects relative to HCs. Conclusion: Altogether, our results indicate that constitutive inflammation in ESRD compromises the activation of DCs and NK cells, and, ultimately, their mediation of downstream lymphocytes, leading to a delayed but intact immune response to mRNA vaccination.
A Review of Epithelial Ion Transporters and Their Roles in Equine Infectious Colitis
Authors: Haywood Lillian M. B. , Sheahan Breanna J.
Published: October 2024

Equine colitis is a devastating disease with a high mortality rate. Infectious pathogens associated with colitis in the adult horse include Clostridioides difficile, Clostridium perfringens, Salmonella spp., Neorickettsia risticii/findlaynesis, and equine coronavirus. Antimicrobial-associated colitis can be associated with the presence of infectious pathogens. Colitis can also be due to non-infectious causes, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration, sand ingestion, and infiltrative bowel disease. Current treatments focus on symptomatic treatment (restoring fluid and electrolyte balance, preventing laminitis and sepsis). Intestinal epithelial ion channels are key regulators of electrolyte (especially sodium and chloride) and water movement into the lumen. Dysfunctional ion channels play a key role in the development of diarrhea. Infectious pathogens, including Salmonella spp. and C. difficile, have been shown to regulate ion channels in a variety of ways. In other species, there has been an increased interest in ion channel manipulation as an anti-diarrheal treatment. While targeting ion channels also represents a promising way to manage diarrhea associated with equine colitis, ion channels have not been well studied in the equine colon. This review provides an overview of what is known about colonic ion channels and their known or putative role in specific types of equine colitis due to various pathogens.
Monoclonal Antibody against Porcine LAG3 Inhibits Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Infection
Authors: Wang Hui , Zheng Xu , Zheng Danyang , Wang Xiaoqian , Zhao Zhiqian , Zhao Mi , Guo Qiang , Mu Yang
Published: October 2024

Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3) is an inhibitory receptor and the interaction between fibrinogen-like protein 1 and LAG3 can inhibit the anti-tumor effect of T cells both in vivo and in vitro, which was regarded as a new immune evasion mechanism. Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), caused by PRRSV, is an infectious disease characterized by reproductive disorders in pregnant sows and gilts and respiratory problems in pigs of all ages, seriously impacting the pig industry worldwide. In this study, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against porcine LAG3 (pLAG3) were developed, and one mAb (1C2) showed good reactivity with pLAG3 on PHA-activated porcine peripheral blood lymphocytes. Epitope mapping showed the epitope recognized by mAb 1C2 was located at amino acid residues 214–435 of pLAG3. LAG3 expression in the tissues of PRRSV-infected pigs was detected, using mAb 1C2 as the primary antibody, and the results revealed that PRRSV infection caused a marked increase in LAG3 expression compared to the control group. Interference of LAG3 expression on PHA-activated lymphocytes promoted PRRSV replication in the co-culture system of monocyte-derived dendritic cells and lymphocytes, whereas overexpression of LAG3 or blocking of the LAG3 signal with mAb 1C2 inhibited PRRSV replication, indicating that PRRSV infection activates the LAG3-signaling pathway, suggesting that this pathway plays an important role in PRRSV pathogenesis. The results obtained lay the foundation for subsequent research on the role of LAG3 in PRRS and other diseases with persistent infection characteristics.
Terson’s Syndrome with Roth Spot-Resembling Features and Third Nerve Palsy without Radiologically Diagnosed Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
Authors: Makri Olga E. , Tsekouras Iasonas K. , Mastronikolis Stylianos N. , Panagiotopoulos Vasileios E. , Constantoyannis Constantine , Georgakopoulos Constantinos D.
Published: October 2024

We report an unusual case of pupil-involving third nerve palsy associated with Terson’s syndrome that resulted in the diagnosis of a right posterior communicating artery aneurysm. Interestingly, Terson’s syndrome presented with Roth spot-resembling features, accompanied by third nerve palsy in a patient without any disturbance of consciousness. To our knowledge, the association of Terson’s syndrome with third nerve palsy has not been described before in the absence of radiologically diagnosed subarachnoid haemorrhage. We present the case of a 48-year-old woman who presented in the Department of Emergencies of the University Hospital of Patras with right-sided complete-pupil-involving third nerve palsy combined with bilateral Terson’s syndrome. More precisely, fundoscopy revealed multiple scattered intra- and pre-retinal haemorrhages in both eyes, while some retinal haemorrhages had a white-centred pattern resembling Roth spots. Neurological examination revealed no nuchal rigidity or any other neurological signs. The Glasgow coma scale score was 15/15. A cerebral computed tomography angiography revealed a 5 mm aneurysm of the right posterior communicating artery and the patient underwent a microvascular clipping operation after craniotomy. The significant contribution of the ophthalmological consultation to the appropriate and timely diagnosis and management of a life-threatening condition is highlighted.
How Top-Down Water Regulation Affects the Financial Performance of Enterprises: The River Chief System in China as an Example
Authors: Zhao Peipei , Li Jiawen , Luo Xin
Published: October 2024

As a top-down type of water regulation, the River Chief System (RCS) in China has effectively enhanced urban water quality. Simultaneously, environmental control significantly impacts the financial performance of enterprises. In recent years, the tension between environmental protection and economic development has escalated, underscoring the undeniable economic ramifications of stringent water regulations. Enterprises are the fundamental agents of economic activities and environmental impact, thus becoming the primary targets of water environment regulatory policies. This study adopts the differences-in-differences (DID) method and uses a sample of listed enterprises in the Yangtze River Economic Belt region from 2010 to 2021 to study the impact of the RCS on the financial performance of enterprises. The results show that the RCS harms the financial performance of enterprises. This impact primarily manifests through increased environmental protection investments. Conversely, the RCS does not have a positive influence on enterprises’ technological innovation. This indicates the challenge of stringent top-down environmental regulations in stimulating short-term technological advancements and enhancing enterprise performance. Moreover, the adverse effects of the RCS on financial performance are notably pronounced for non-state-owned enterprises and those located in the upper Yangtze River Economic Belt. This suggests that private enterprises and those in less-developed regions exhibit lower resilience to top-down environmental regulations.
Quality and Influences of Natural and Anthropogenic Factors on Drinking Water in Rural Areas of Southern Chile
Authors: Fuentes Norka , Arriagada Aldo , Pareja Claudio , Molina-Roco Mauricio
Published: October 2024

Water quality is a fundamental aspect of public health and environmental sustainability. In rural areas, the physicochemical and microbiological quality of drinking water depends not only on hydrogeological conditions but also on anthropogenic activities carried out on the surface of the basin. This study aimed to identify natural and anthropogenic influences related to the quality of drinking water in rural areas of southern Chile. In order to perform this, six rural drinking water systems were evaluated. A total of two types of catchment sources (groundwater and surface water) that were located in a longitudinal gradient were used, where coverage and sequences of rocks and soils could be differentiated. The results show that the water delivered by the majority of rural drinking water systems studied was of good quality, meeting the standards of Chilean and international regulations. No fecal coliforms or Escherichia coli were recorded. In addition, we recorded that turbidity, color, pH, concentration of total dissolved solids and fecal coliforms showed significant differences between groundwater and surface water. We also recorded that in two groundwater systems, iron and manganese levels slightly exceeded the regulations, endangering the acceptability of the water. These increases can be related to the natural origins of the metals, linked to the presence of oxides in Andisol- and Utisol-type volcanic soils.
Analysis of Local Scour around Double Piers in Tandem Arrangement in an S-Shaped Channel under Ice-Jammed Flow Conditions
Authors: Dong Shihao , Zhang Zhenhua , Li Zhicong , Chen Pangpang , Wang Jun , Li Guowei
Published: October 2024

The stability of bridge foundations is affected by local scour, and the formation of ice jams exacerbates local scour around bridge piers. These processes, particularly the evolution of ice jams and local scour around piers, are more complex in curved sections than in straight sections. This study, based on experiments in an S-shaped channel, investigates how various factors—the flow Froude number, ice–water discharge rate, median particle diameter, pier spacing, and pier diameter—affect the maximum local scour depth around double piers in tandem and the distribution of ice jam thickness. The results indicate that under ice-jammed flow conditions, the maximum local scour depth around double piers in tandem is positively correlated with the ice–water discharge rate, pier spacing, and pier diameter and negatively correlated with median particle diameter. The maximum local scour depth is positively correlated with the flow Froude number when it ranges from 0.1 to 0.114, peaking at 0.114. Above this value, the correlation becomes negative. In curved channels, the arrangement of double piers in tandem substantially influences ice jam thickness distribution, with increases in pier diameter and spacing directly correlating with greater ice jam thickness at each cross-section. Furthermore, ice jam thickness is responsive to flow conditions, escalating with higher ice–water discharge rates and decreasing flow Froude numbers.
Mine Water Safety and Environment: Chinese Experience
Authors: Xu Zhimin , Sun Yajun
Published: October 2024

Coal occupies a central position in the global energy sector [...]
Response of the Cyanobacteria Plankton Community to Anthropogenic Impact in Small Lakes of Urbanized Territory in the Permafrost Zone of Northeast Asia (Eastern Siberia, Yakutia)
Authors: Barinova Sophia , Gabyshev Viktor A. , Gabysheva Olga I.
Published: October 2024

In the conditions of growing anthropogenic pressure, aquatic ecosystems all over the world are subject to transformation, expressed in the growth of eutrophication, increase in acidity, changes in water exchange, etc. In the region of Eastern Siberia we studied, located in Yakutia in the middle reaches of the Lena River basin, there is a significant population growth accompanied by advancements in agriculture and public utilities. The region is rich in small lakes, which have been under pressure from human activities for the past few decades. The studied region is located in the permafrost zone and is characterized by severe climatic conditions, cold long winters, short hot summers, and a short ice-free period on reservoirs. We studied 17 lakes of various genesis, with varying degrees of anthropogenic pressure, located in the largest city of the region, small villages, and at different distances from them. Previous studies have established that cyanobacteria constitute the phytoplankton main group in these lakes during the summer period. Therefore, we selected them as the focus for our bioindication analysis. An integrated assessment of the bioindication properties of cyanobacteria, along with chemical water parameters, was undertaken using statistical mapping methods, JASP, and Redundancy Analysis (RDA). This analysis revealed the impact of urbanized areas, characterized by a decrease in pH, runoff of nitrogen compounds, and an increase in organic matter. Despite the cryolithozone harsh conditions, in small lakes of urbanized areas, cyanobacteria exhibit their competitive advantages within the plankton community. The prospect of continuing our work is associated with the need to determine the risk of cyanoHAB development since potentially toxic cyanobacteria have a mass development in a number of lakes.
Evaluation of Groundwater Resources in the Middle and Lower Reaches of Songhua River Based on SWAT Model
Authors: Yang Xiao , Dai Changlei , Liu Gengwei , Meng Xiang , Li Chunyue
Published: October 2024

The SWAT model primarily investigates sources of water pollution and conducts ecological assessments of surface water in contemporary hydrology and water resources research. To date, there have been limited accomplishments in the study of groundwater resources in China. The MODFLOW model currently primarily simulates groundwater levels and the migration of water quality, depending on the hydrological surface water data in the relevant area. This study aims to investigate the groundwater distribution characteristics of the middle and lower reaches of the Songhua River, a significant agricultural and grain production region in China. The research focuses on the middle and lower reaches of the Songhua River basin in Northeast China and employed the SWAT distributed hydrological model to simulate runoff. The monthly recorded runoff at Tongjiang Station in Jiamusi City was utilized to calibrate the model parameters. Consequently, the MODFLOW model was introduced to compare and assess the simulation outcomes of the SWAT model, ultimately ascertaining the distribution characteristics of shallow groundwater, groundwater recharge, recoverable volume, and groundwater levels in the Songhua River Basin. The findings indicate that: (1) The SWAT model demonstrates efficacy in the study region, achieving R2 and NS values of 0.81 and 0.76, respectively, thereby fulfilling the fundamental criteria for scientific research. The MODFLOW model exhibits strong performance in the study region, achieving a periodic R2 of 0.98 and a verification R2 of 0.97, with the discrepancy between simulated and actual groundwater levels confined to 0.6 m, thereby satisfying the criteria for scientific research. (2) In 2011, 2014, and 2016, the groundwater recharge in the middle and lower sections of the Songhua River was 24.33 × 108 m3, 30.79 × 108 m3, and 32.25 × 108 m3, respectively, aligning closely with the SWAT simulation results, while the average annual groundwater level depth was 8.17 m. (3) In the research area, groundwater recharging occurs primarily by atmospheric precipitation, while drainage predominantly transpires via groundwater as base flow, constituting 81.46%. Secondly, the recharge of shallow groundwater to deep aquifers is around 7.14%, with a minimal share attributed to vadose zone loss, constituting merely 2.1%. (4) From 2010 to 2016, the average groundwater runoff modulus of the middle and lower reaches of the Songhua River basin was 1.005 L/(s·km²), with a total recharge of 216.58 × 108 m3 and a total recoverable amount of 105.11 × 108 m3. The mean yearly supply was 25.11 × 108 m3. The total groundwater recharge was 26.54 × 108 m3 in the driest year (2011) and 33.25 × 108 m3 in the year of most ample water (2016).
Financial Mechanism for Sustainable Development of the Marine Economy with Respect to Technology, Digitalization, and Low Carbonization
Authors: Sun Sui , Zhang Zhe , Tan Mi
Published: October 2024

This study explores the impact of regional financial development on the sustainable growth of the marine economy across 14 coastal cities in Guangdong Province from 2004 to 2022. To assess this, a comprehensive index system was developed to measure marine economic sustainability, incorporating key factors such as capital investment, production efficiency, and processing and trade. The findings indicate that financial development significantly enhances the sustainable growth of the marine economy. However, the interaction between financial development, technology digitalization, and low-carbon initiatives leads to diminishing returns in terms of sustainability. Through the use of the Moran index and the spatial Durbin model, the analysis reveals a dual outcome: while financial development positively influences a city’s marine economic sustainability, it exerts negative spillover effects on neighboring cities. Previous studies have primarily focused on the relationship between financial development and the marine economy at the national or provincial level, leaving a gap in understanding these dynamics at the city level. Furthermore, the coordination between financial development and marine economic sustainability across cities within the same region remains largely unexplored. This study addresses these gaps by investigating city-level dynamics and examining intercity coordination between financial development and marine economic growth. The results offer a novel perspective for policymakers, highlighting strategies to balance regional financing for the marine economy with targeted investments in science, technology, digitalization, and low-carbon initiatives. This approach seeks to optimize resource allocation and mitigate potential substitution effects. Ultimately, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between financial development and the marine economy at both city and regional levels.
Water Management as a Social Field: A Method for Engineering Solutions
Authors: De Luque-Villa Miguel A. , González-Méndez Mauricio
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes the use of Pierre Bourdieu’s sociological concepts of social fields, capital, and habitus to analyze water management in Colombia. By mapping the social dynamics of water management, this study examines the interactions and power relationships among agents, including government agencies, private companies, academic institutions, non-profits, and local communities. The analysis reveals how various forms of capital, such as economic, cultural, social, and symbolic, influence water management practices, policies, and the distribution of power. Integrating agent-based modeling with hydrological simulations provides a more nuanced understanding of how social dynamics influence water management. This interdisciplinary approach helps develop more adaptive and equitable strategies by capturing the complex interactions between human behavior and environmental factors. This study highlights the need to localize the analysis of the social field to capture regional customs and specific social dynamics. This localized approach ensures that water management strategies are more relevant, context sensitive, and sustainable. This paper advocates for the wider adoption of agent-based modeling in water management, proposing a methodology that combines the engineering principles of practical problem solving and adaptive design with an understanding of the social complexities in water management.
Performance Evaluation of a Pilot-Scale Constructed Wetland with Typha latifolia for Remediation of Domestic Wastewater in Zimbabwe
Authors: Alufasi Richwell , Parawira Wilson , Zvidzai Cuthbert J. , Stefanakis Alexandros I. , Musili Nancy , Lebea Phiyani , Chakauya Ereck , Chingwaru Walter
Published: October 2024

The management of wastewater remains a challenge, particularly in developing countries. The potential use of constructed wetlands to treat wastewater is promising but their contaminant removal efficiencies, particularly in a tropical country such as Zimbabwe, are not fully understood. A pilot-scale study was undertaken in Zimbabwe to evaluate the efficiency of vertical-flow constructed wetlands planted with Typha latifolia in the treatment of domestic wastewater. Four pilot subsurface vertical-flow constructed wetland units (measuring 1 m × 1 m × 1.1 m) were built from concrete. The units were filled with waste rock from a nickel mine. Three units were planted with Typha latifolia while the fourth one was left unplanted, acting as the control. Each unit was loaded with wastewater at a rate of 220 dm3/day. Physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters were analyzed during the winter season. Physico-chemical and bacterial contaminant concentrations were significantly lower in the effluent than in the influent, and the system achieved maximum removals for BOD5, COD, TDS, TSS, nitrates, phosphates, phosphate pentoxide, phosphorus, and E. coli of 56.01%, 82.87%, 30.61%, 90.40% 17.26%, 35.80%, 36.19%, 40.64%, and 90.28%, respectively. The study shows that constructed wetland systems can be successfully established for the removal of physical, chemical, and microbial contaminants from domestic wastewater.
Research on the Influence of Particles and Blade Tip Clearance on the Wear Characteristics of a Submersible Sewage Pump
Authors: Peng Guangjie , Yang Jinhua , Ma Lie , Wang Zengqiang , Chang Hao , Hong Shiming , Ji Guangchao , Lou Yuan
Published: October 2024

A submersible sewage pump is designed for conveying solid–liquid two-phase media containing sewage, waste, and fiber components, through its small and compact design and its excellent anti-winding and anti-clogging capabilities. In this paper, the computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD-DEM) coupling model is used to study the influence of different conveying conditions and particle parameters on the wear of the flow components in a submersible sewage pump. At the same time, the energy balance equation is used to explore the influence mechanism of different tip clearance sizes on the internal flow pattern, wear, and energy conversion mechanism of the pump. This study demonstrates that increasing the particle volume fraction decreases the inlet particle velocity and intensifies wear in critical areas. When enlarging the tip clearance thickness from 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm, the leakage vortex formation at the inlet is enhanced, leading to increased wear rates in terms of the blade and volute. Consequently, the total energy loss and turbulent kinetic energy generation increased by 3.57% and 2.25%, respectively, while the local loss coefficient in regard to the impeller channel cross-section increased significantly. The findings in this study offer essential knowledge for enhancing the performance and ensuring the stable operation of pumps under solid–liquid two-phase flow conditions.
Cascaded Vehicle State Estimation Method of 4WIDEVs Considering System Delay and Noise
Authors: Yang Zibin , Liu Xiang , Xia Qiu
Published: October 2024

Considering the negative effects of time delay and noise on vehicle state estimation, a cascaded estimation means for the vehicle sideslip angle is proposed utilizing the ODUKF algorithm. To achieve strong-correlation decoupling between state variables and model interference of the EDWM, an augmented EDWM was constructed by introducing the tire relaxation length dynamic equation, which enables the precise model relationship between the longitudinal and transverse tire force relaxation length to be constructed while also achieving the decoupling of the system state from the unknown input. To achieve a vehicle driving state estimation, a hierarchical estimation architecture was adopted to design a cascading estimation method for the vehicle driving state. By using tire force estimation values as input for the vehicle driving state estimation, the required vehicle body postures can be estimated. At the same time, facing the problems of system delay and noise, an estimator derived from the ODUKF is designed by combining the model and cascade estimation strategy. The simulation comparative analysis and quantitative statistical results under multiple operating conditions provide evidence that the developed means effectively heighten the estimation accurateness and real-time performance while considering system time delay and noise.
Programmatic forecasting of treatment and diagnostic measures for congenital cleft lip and/or palate
Authors: Tutova K. S. , Muzychina A. A.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. The documentation processes in medical organizations across the DPR are being restructured, particularly in relation to providing therapeutic and rehabilitative care for children with congenital maxillofacial anomalies. Significant changes have been made to both the requirements for medical documentation and the speed at which it is processed, thanks to advancements in information technology and the introduction of individual electronic medical records. In this era of medical digitalization, it is crucial to simplify data collection and improve the forecasting of the effectiveness of therapeutic and rehabilitative measures conducted at the Pediatric Maxillofacial Surgery Center in Donetsk.

Materials and methods. To evaluate the effectiveness of forecasting therapeutic and rehabilitative measures using the "Outpatient Monitoring" software, a previously developed model for predicting treatment outcomes was used. This model is based on an analysis of factors and indicators that reflect different aspects of the treatment and rehabilitation process for children with cleft lip and/or palate.

Results. The study led to the implementation of a methodology for forecasting the effectiveness of therapeutic and rehabilitative measures at the Pediatric Maxillofacial Surgery Center in Donetsk, utilizing the "Outpatient Monitoring" computer-based accounting and analytical software, which facilitates both practical and scientific tasks related to the monitoring, treatment, and rehabilitation of children with cleft lip and/or palate.

Conclusion. The developed forecasting model will greatly simplify the work of specialists at the Pediatric Maxillofacial Surgery Center.
Primary care experiences of adults reporting learning disability: a probability sample survey
Authors: Tromans Samuel J , Teece Lucy , Shankar Rohit , Hassiotis Angela , Brugha Traolach , McManus Sally
Published: October 2024

Background

Adults with learning disability face multiple adversities, but evidence on their needs and primary care experiences is limited.

Aim

To compare the characteristics and primary care experiences of adults reporting learning disability with those who did not.

Design and setting

This was an analysis of the 2022 General Practice Patient Survey, a national probability sample survey conducted in 2022 with people registered with NHS primary care in England.

Method

This analysis reports descriptive profiles, weighted and with 95% confidence intervals. Logistic regression models adjusting for gender, age, ethnicity, and area-level deprivation compared experiences of adults reporting learning disability with those who did not.

Results

Survey participants comprised 623 157 people aged ≥16 years, including 6711 reporting learning disability. Adults reporting learning disability were more likely to be male, younger, of mixed or multiple ethnicities, and live in more deprived areas. All chronic conditions included in the survey were more common in adults reporting learning disability, especially reported sensory, neurodevelopmental, neurological, and mental health conditions. Adults reporting learning disability were twice as likely to have a preferred GP, and less likely to find their practice’s website easy to navigate. They were also less likely to have confidence and trust in their healthcare professional, or feel their needs were met.

Conclusion

Adults reporting a learning disability had a higher likelihood of chronic health conditions. Their reported experiences of primary care indicate that, despite recent initiatives to improve services offered, further adaptations to the consistency and ease of access to primary care is needed.
Communicating blood test results in primary care: a mixed-methods systematic review
Authors: Nankervis Helen , Huntley Alyson L , Whiting Penny , Hamilton William , Singh Hardeep , Dawson Sarah , O’Donnell Rachel , Sprackman Jane , Montague Anna Ferguson , Watson Jessica
Published: October 2024

Background

Online records access, including test results, was rolled out as part of changes to the GP contract in England in 2023. Blood test result communication is important for patient-centred care, patient safety, and primary care workload. Evidence is needed to ensure that test results are communicated safely and efficiently to patients in primary care.

Aim

To summarise existing evidence for blood test result communication between primary care providers and their patients and carers.

Design and setting

A mixed-methods systematic review was undertaken.

Method

MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), and the Cochrane Library were searched from January 2013–September 2023. Qualitative or quantitative studies that provided information on the communication of blood test results by primary care staff to adult patients and carers were eligible for inclusion.

Results

There were 71 included studies, including 10 experimental studies and no randomised controlled trials. Study quality was mostly poor and risk of bias was high, partly owing to a lack of reported information. The studies found that patients want more information about their blood test results, particularly in terms of ‘what next’, and prefer results to be provided quickly. Electronic methods, such as online access or text messages, were generally well accepted but not by everyone, and not for all results. Clinicians’ opinions were mixed as to whether online direct release of test results to patients was beneficial or could cause problems, such as increased patient anxiety and increased workload.

Conclusion

A range of evidence has been identified on patient and clinician preferences, and barriers and facilitators to test communication, which is particularly important in the current NHS context of a move towards patient online access.
Kişisel Verilerin Korunması Kanunu’nun 6. Maddesinde Yapılan Değişiklik Bağlamında Özel Nitelikli Kişisel Verilerin İşlenmesi
Authors: Turan Başara Gamze
Published: October 2024

7499 sayılı Ceza Muhakemesi Kanunu ile Bazı Kanunlarda Değişiklik Yapılmasına Dair Kanunla Kişisel Verilerin Korunması Kanunu’nun özel nitelikli kişisel verilerin işlenmesi koşullarını düzenleyen 6. maddesinde önemli değişiklikler yapılmıştır. Anılan maddede, öncelikle özel nitelikli kişisel verilerin işlenmesinin yasak olduğu kuralına yer verilmiş, devamında hükümde sınırlı olarak sayılan sebeplerden birinin varlığı halinde özel nitelikli kişisel verilerin işlenmesinin mümkün olduğu öngörülmüştür. Buna göre, özel nitelikli kişisel veriler bakımından hukuki işleme sebepleri; açık rıza, kanunlarda açıkça öngörülme, fiili imkansızlık, alenileştirme, bir hakkın tesisi, kullanılması veya korunması için zorunluluk, sır saklama yükümlülüğü altında bulunan kişiler ya da yetkili kurum kuruluşlar tarafından işleme, istihdam, iş sağlığı ve güvenliği, iş ve sosyal güvenlik veya sosyal hizmetler ve sosyal yardım alanlarındaki hukuki yükümlülüklerin yerine getirilmesi için işleme, siyasi, felsefi, dini veya sendikal amaçlarla kurulan vakıf, dernek veya diğer kar amacı gütmeyen kuruluş ya da oluşumlara ilişkin özel işleme olarak sayılmıştır.
Estimating Energy Needs for Climate-Controlled Greenhouses in Syria with a Software Tool
Authors: Ghanem Laith , Gürdil Gürkan Alp Kağan , Demirel Bahadır , Omer Salih Eissa Mohamedeltayib
Published: October 2024

Amid the current conditions in Syria, the study of energy consumption within plastic greenhouses emerges as a fundamental element in the agricultural economy, especially in areas subject to extreme climate variations. With many thermal power stations ceasing operation due to conflicts and the diminishing sources of energy, understanding energy consumption becomes more urgent to enhance productivity and reduce costs. Successful management of protected agriculture requires in-depth knowledge of weather dynamics and the optimal environmental conditions for crops. To implement effective management of plastic greenhouses, it is essential to recognize how climatic fluctuations affect plant growth and production throughout the various seasons. Heating systems form a significant part of the costs in constructing plastic greenhouses, and deficiencies in these systems can lead to negative impacts on quality, quantity, duration of cultivation, and production volume. Therefore, accurately calculating heating costs is crucial for reducing operational expenses. This study included the development of a computer program to determine the heating needs of plastic greenhouses, considering various factors such as the geographical location of the greenhouse, crop type, covering materials, heating system used, and land area. The results showed that Syria needs 4.56 megawatts of energy for the greenhouses, with the Tartus Governorate consuming the largest share, with energy consumption rates in Tartus, Latakia, Homs, and Damascus countryside amounting to 3.6, 0.3, 0.51, and 0.19 megawatts, respectively. The crops of tomatoes, vegetables, strawberries, and tropical plants consumed 2.2, 1.66, 2.21, and 0.244 megawatts of energy, respectively. This study is an important step towards achieving sustainable and efficient agriculture that contributes to supporting the economy and protecting the environment in Syria.
Biber (Capsicum annuum L.) Çeşit Islahında Etil Metan Sülfonat Mutagen Çalışmaları
Authors: Akalp Erhan , Pirinç Vedat
Published: October 2024

Dünyada var olan bitkisel kaynakların giderek azalması, insan nüfusunun artması sonucu beslenme ve gıda ihtiyacının karşılanabilmesi için araştırıcılar üretimi artırıcı yollar ve yöntemler üzerine çalışmalar yapmaktadır. Mevcut çeşitlerde bazı kültürel uygulamalardan; sulama sistem ve metotlarının geliştirilmesi, çapalama, gübreleme, hastalık ve zararlılarla mücadelenin iyileştirilmesi gibi çalışmalarla verim ve kalitede sınırlı artış elde edilmiştir. Bitkilerde verim ve kalitede genetik materyal olan tohuma bağlı ıslah çalışmalarının uygulanması ile üstün nitelikli çeşitlerin geliştirilmesi ile mümkün görünmektedir. Bitki ıslahçıları yeni çeşitlerin ortaya çıkarılmasında, doğada var olan varyasyonlardan ve geliştirdikleri yeni teknik ve yöntemlerden faydalanmaktadırlar. Yeni bir çeşidin ortaya çıkarılmasında ıslahçı klasik ıslah yöntemlerinin başında gelen melezleme ıslahından yararlanabildiği gibi, uzun zaman ve fazla emeği kısaltıcı yeni çeşit elde etmede kullanılan yeni bir yöntem olan mutasyon ıslah yöntemini kullanmaya başlamışlardır. Mutasyon, doğada kendiliğinden gerçekleşebildiği gibi, kimyasal ve fiziksel mutajenler kullanılarak da yapılabilmektedir. Doğada yapay olarak elde edilen mutasyonlar çeşitli ışınlar (Gama ışını, X ışını, Kobalt 60 vd.) gibi çok sayıda fiziksel ya da dietil sülfat, sodyum azide ve etil metal sülfonat (EMS) gibi kimyasalların etkisiyle meydana gelirler. Yeni çeşitlerin geliştirilmesinde sıkça başvurulan mutasyon ıslahında kimyasal mutajenler arasında EMS en etkili ve en yaygın olarak kullanılan mutajen olarak kabul edilmektedir. Bu çalışma ile biber çeşit ıslahında EMS uygulamalarına yönelik yapılan çalışmaların irdelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Böylece biberde EMS ile mutasyon ıslahına yönelik güncel araştırma sonuçları derlenerek; uygulamaya yönelik protokol oluşturulmaya çalışılmıştır. Geniş çeşit potansiyeline sahip biberde her varyasyona yönelik olarak kullanılan uygulama doz ve süreleri gibi faktörlerin dikkate alınarak gelecekte yapılacak çalışmalara referans olabileceği düşünülmektedir.
Точка зрения на ведение пациентов с хронической коронарной болезнью: часть 2
Authors: Суджаева О.А.
Published: October 2024

В статье представлен взгляд Американской ассоциации сердца и Американской коллегии кардиологов на ведение отдельных категорий пациентов с хронической коронарной болезнью (ХКБ), изложенный в Руководстве 2023 года. Сделаны акценты на различиях между европейским и американским подходами к ведению отдельных категорий пациентов с ХКБ. Рассмотрены вопросы показаний и выбора метода реваскуляризации миокарда при ХКБ. Подробно описаны подходы к ведению особых групп населения: лиц со спонтанной диссекцией коронарных артерий (КА), с ишемией миокарда при необструктивном поражении (КА), пациентов с раком, лиц женского пола (в частности беременных), пожилых, пациентов с хронической болезнью почек, инфицированных вирусом иммунодефицита человека и имеющих аутоиммунные заболевания, реципиентов трансплантации сердца. Приведен подход к амбулаторному длительному наблюдению за пациентами с ХКБ.

The article presents the views of the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology on the management of certain categories of patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CCD), as set out in the 2023 Guidelines. Differences between European and American approaches to the management of certain categories of CCD patients are emphasized. Issues of indications and method selection for myocardial revascularization in CCD are considered. Approaches to the management of special populations such as subjects with spontaneous coronary artery (CA) dissection, with myocardial ischemia in nonobstructive CA lesions, oncologic patients , females (in particular, pregnant women), the elderly, patients with chronic kidney disease, those infected with human immunodeficiency virus and having autoimmune diseases, and heart transplant recipients are detailed. An approach to outpatient long-term follow-up of CCD patients is presented.