bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Zinc Contamination from Laboratory Syringes
Authors: Lindgren Sarah G. , Sakol Laura J. , Hoover Monica , Raymond Timothy M. , Dutcher Dabrina D.
Published: August 2024

While many sources of contamination in chemical and biological laboratories are well understood and known, some are less so. To quantify the magnitude of the potential contamination of solutions by zinc in common laboratory syringes, a study was conducted on solutions stored in rubber-containing syringes in which the rubber was catalyzed by zinc. This study identified specific factors contributing to contamination from laboratory syringes, including the syringe brand, time, solution type, and pH. Two common syringe brands, Covidien and BD, were tested, and three time durations, 0 days, 1 day, and 14 days, were examined. The solutions tested included sucrose and tartaric acid, representing both covalent and ionic species. Additionally, this study employed a pH range of 2 to 13 to further explore zinc contamination across a wide range of conditions and factors. The zinc concentration from the syringes was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results, which ranged from less than 20 to over 600 μg L−1, revealed increased zinc concentration at both extreme pH values, while remaining lower but measurable at neutral pH levels. Zinc contamination is important to study because its contamination in laboratory syringes could interfere with the detection of other elements, further skew laboratory data, unexpectedly catalyze reactions, and lead to inconsistencies in experimental conditions. This study further emphasizes the broader significance of understanding pollutants within laboratory settings. The findings highlight the intricate dynamics of zinc contamination, stressing the need for the control of environmental factors and the broad dissemination of lesser-known sources. Recognizing the potential impact of contaminants like zinc is crucial, as it not only influences analytical accuracy, but also mirrors the wider concern of pollutants compromising scientific integrity in diverse experimental conditions.
Prediction of Biaxial Properties of Elastomers and Appropriate Data Processing
Authors: Javořík Jakub , Keerthiwansa Rohitha , Pata Vladimír , Rusnáková Soňa , Kotlánová Barbora , Grunt Michal , Sedlačík Michal
Published: August 2024

An equibiaxial tension test could be necessary to set up hyperelastic material constants for elastomers exactly. Unfortunately, very often, only uniaxial tension experimental data are available. It is possible to use only uniaxial data to compute hyperelastic constants for a hyperelastic model, but the prediction of behavior in different deformation modes (as is equibiaxial or pure shear) will not work correctly with this model. It is quite obvious that there is some relation between uniaxial and equibiaxial behavior for the elastomers. Thus, we could use uniaxial data to predict equibiaxial behavior. If we were able to predict (at least approximately) equibiaxial data, then we could create a hyperelastic model usable for the general prediction of any deformation mode of elastomer. The method of the appropriate processing of experimental data for such prediction is described in the article and is verified by the comparison with the experiment. The presented results include uniaxial and equibiaxial experimental data, the created average curve of both the deformation modes, and the predicted equibiaxial data. Using Student’s t-test, a close coincidence of the real and predicted equibiaxial data was confirmed.
Effect of Probiotic and β-Mannanase Supplementation on the Productive Performance and Intestinal Health of Broiler Chickens Challenged by Eimeria maxima and Clostridium perfringens
Authors: Maria Larissa Pereira , Lizana Rony Riveros , Camargos Rosiane de Souza , Leme Bruno Balbino , Marçal Bárbara Vitória , Sakomura Nilva Kazue , Kipper Marcos
Published: August 2024

The use of antibiotics in poultry farming has been associated with bacterial resistance in humans, leading to a ban on their inclusion in chicken diets. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the effects of probiotics and β-mannanase on the growth performance and intestinal health of broiler chickens challenged by Eimeria maxima and Clostridium perfringens. For this, 2100 one-day-old male Ross 308 chicks were used. The treatments were as follows: T1—Negative control (NC) unchallenged birds; T2—Positive control (PC) challenged with E. maxima + C. perfringens; T3—PC + Antibiotic (Enramycin 8%-125 g/ton); T4—PC + β-mannanase (HemicellHT; 300 g/ton); T5—PC + probiotic (ProtexinTM; 150 g/ton); T6—PC + β-mannanase + probiotic. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed from 1 to 42 days in the variables body weight, body weight gain and feed intake, and the NC treatment presented higher values compared to the PC and PC + probiotic groups. The villus/crypt ratio in the duodenum increased in the PC + β-man + prob treatment, differing from the NC, PC and PC + probiotic (p < 0.05) treatments. The use of β-mannanase, probiotics or both together is effective to mitigate the effects of production challenges, through the maintenance of the intestine by modulating action on the cecum microbiome and intestinal morphometry.
Advances and Prospects in Electrocatalytic Processes for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Zhou Xince , Yang Jiajie , Guo Jiahuan , Xiong Wei , Leung Michael K. H.
Published: August 2024

Wastewater pollution is severe, with various refractory compounds extensively used and discharged into sewage, posing risks to the environment and human health. Electrocatalytic technologies including direct and indirect electrocatalytic oxidation, electrocatalytic reduction, and electro-Fenton processes offer advantages such as high efficiency, ease of control, and minimal secondary pollution. This review aims to systematically introduce the principles, current research status, advantages, and disadvantages of various electrocatalytic processes used for wastewater treatment, with a focus on the electrode materials, operational parameters, and cost analysis of various electrocatalytic technologies. It also provides new insights into efficient electrode materials for future electrocatalytic technologies in treating refractory wastewater.
Reservoir Body Development Characteristics in Deep Carbonate Gas Reservoirs: A Case Study of the Fourth Member of the Dengying Formation, Anyue Gas Field
Authors: Wang Beidong , Yang Shenglai , Hu Jiangtao , Zhao Shuai , Deng Hui , Zhang Yuxiang , Yan Youjun , Jiang Yi
Published: August 2024

Deep carbonate rocks are characterized by strong heterogeneity and fracture and cavity development, which have important influence on the storage and seepage capacity of reservoirs. To comprehensively characterize the developmental characteristics of the reservoir body in the intra–platform reservoir of the fourth member of the Dengying Formation in the Anyue gas field, this study employed a multiscale pore–throat structure characterization method that combines physical property analysis, core surface observation, cast thin section observation, a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) test, and CT scanning analysis. The results reveal that the primary storage spaces in the intra–platform reservoirs consist of inter–crystalline pores and small cavities (<2 mm), with thick throats and fractures serving as the primary flow channels. The rock density is lower in areas where solution fractures and cavities are developed, and the fractures and cavities are generally distributed in clusters. Notably, the intra–platform reservoir of the fourth member of the Dengying Formation is characterized by low asphaltene content. The presence of fractures in fracture–cavity type cores can reduce seepage resistance in the near–fracture area and enhance the drainage efficiency of small pores, as observed in the NMR test combined with centrifugation. In the centrifugal experiments, the increase in centrifugal force had the most significant impact on drainage efficiency, with the highest efficiency being 25.82% for cavity–type cores and the lowest being 6.39% for pore–type cores. Furthermore, by integrating the results of cast thin section and NMR test, the cavity–type reservoirs were further classified into two categories: dissolved cavity storage type and dissolved pore storage type. This study clarifies the storage and seepage characteristics of dissolved–pore storage reservoirs, which are challenging to develop but have high development potential. With reasonable surface operation measures, these reservoirs can provide important support for stable production in the middle and late stages of intra–platform reservoir development.
The Use of Digital Tools in an Interdisciplinary Approach to Comprehensive Prosthodontic Treatments
Authors: Sorrentino Roberto , Zarone Fernando , Cantile Tiziana , Mastrosimone Annamaria , Cervino Gabriele , Ruggiero Gennaro
Published: August 2024

Contemporary dental treatments have to evaluate not only the biological and functional needs of each single case but also the increasing esthetic demand of patients [...]
Classical Theism and Theological Method: A Critical Inquiry
Authors: Peckham John C.
Published: August 2024

Some classical theists contend that the Christian tradition demands affirmation of the following four tenets—divine simplicity, timelessness, immutability, and impassibility—in their absolute or strict senses, a position I refer to as strict classical theism. These four tenets, however, are the subject of considerable debate in recent scholarship. This article engages the ongoing debate by focusing on some significant difficulties strict classical theism faces relative to meeting two widely held standards of Christian theological method: the standard of biblical warrant and the standard of systematic coherence. First, highlighting classical Christology as a test case, this article suggests that strict classical theism faces pressure to either revise or abandon some contested tenets or confront the prospect of abandoning the standard of systematic coherence. Second, the article turns to highlighting some ways that strict classical theism struggles to meet the standard of biblical warrant, which might necessitate a reevaluation of some of its core claims and the viability of common appeals made to the Christian tradition in support of such claims. This article is not intended as a conclusive argument against strict classical theism but aims at the more modest goal of pressing these points regarding theological method, calling for serious consideration, and inviting further discussion.
Eve and the Goddess Innana: Reading Genesis 3:16b in Light of Sacred Marriage Cultic Literature
Authors: Doukhan Abi
Published: August 2024

Genesis 3:16b has traditionally been interpreted as proof of woman’s inferiority, her nefarious powers of seduction, and as a license for men to rule and master her. Such an interpretation seems to have a much greater affinity with the Hellenistic context from which it arose than with its immediate Hebraic and Ancient Near Eastern context. If we are to remain faithful to this context—where woman was held in high esteem—we need more than ever to approach Genesis 3:16b with a lens that does not do violence to the woman. This article seeks to offer a new exegetical lens on Genesis 3:16b, as a redemptive rather than a punitive moment. This will entail that the two key concepts “rule” (mashal) and “loving intention” (teshuqah) be re-interpreted, in the light of its Ancient Near Eastern context, as containing vestiges of the sacred marriage trope figuring in Sumerian cultic texts, notably the Courtship of Inanna and Dumuzi. The parallels between our story and the Courtship will reveal some stunning parallels, enabling us to illuminate a radically new understanding of Genesis 3:16b as a sacred marriage scene, with the woman enabling the uplifting of man, inaugurating his reign as the king of the land, rather than finding herself dominated by him and a victim of his power over her.
Digital Media and Religious Sentiments in Malaysia: Critical Discourse Analysis of Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party and Democratic Action Party Cyberspace Campaigns in the 15th General Election
Authors: Saidin Mohd Irwan Syazli , Azrun Nadhrah
Published: August 2024

The challenge arises from Malaysia’s struggle to foster peaceful connections among its diverse ethnic groups, mainly due to the prevalence of politics centered around religious and ethnic identities. To examine how racialised political sentiments subtly influence power dynamics, this study analyses four digital excerpts using a critical discursive approach. The primary sources are secondary materials such as videos and social media posts in cyberspace related to the 15th General Election political campaigns. This article demonstrates that language is used to create and reinforce religious and racial divisions in pursuing political power by the two most significant political parties, the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) and the Democratic Action Party (DAP). It emphasises the underlying power that drives these discourses, where cyberspace linguistic features and access to digital technologies have the “power” to shape audience reactions. The selected analysed excerpts collectively contribute to the primary discourse that fuels racial sentiments, especially those related to race, religion, and royalty (3R sentiments) in electoral competition.
Maternal Identity and Muslim Ethics: South African Women’s Experiences
Authors: Moos Shafieka , Shaikh Sa’diyya
Published: August 2024

Muslim women are often caught between idealized images of motherhood within Islamic traditions and the challenges of their lived experiences, as they navigate their subjective identities as Muslim mothers in contemporary South African society. We discuss mothering experiences as an epistemological site for the construction of complex Muslim maternal subjectivities. In part, these subjectivities demonstrate innovative responsiveness to the complexity of mothering amid changing social norms, through the crafting of maternal value frameworks that reflect both the particularities of contemporary social life as well as the quest for a more universal Islamic moral perspective. We argue that Muslim women’s dynamic constructions of their maternal subjectivities represent a form of lived, contemporary Islamic ethics.
A Spiritually Integrated Approach to Trauma, Grief, and Loss: Applying a Competence Framework for Helping Professionals
Authors: Vis Jo-Ann , Boynton Heather Marie
Published: August 2024

Exposure to trauma, grief, and loss (TGL) can elicit spiritual pondering and meaning making, which can manifest as unsettled spiritual rumination or evolve into spiritual growth and transcendence. Incorporating a spiritually informed approach with TGL survivors invites spiritual interaction between the individual and professional helper to move beyond the trauma story and influences toward hope and possibility. This approach benefits survivors and offers the professional helper the potential for personal growth and transcendence. Integrating a spiritually informed approach encourages professionals and clients to engage as co-collaborators, co-creators, and co-authors in the change process. It is proposed that appreciation for spiritual attributes is essential for creating a spiritually interactive and dynamic dialogue. This spiritually informed approach can assist the professional helper in guiding individuals through spiritual processes that evoke hope, elicit meaning, and promote growth, offering spiritual transformation following a traumatic event. While the literature offers valuable information concerning the importance of spiritual intelligence and competence, little has been written about the significance of these spiritual attributes for professional helpers as they pertain to the competencies and development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for promoting resilience and posttraumatic growth for clients. This reflective article invites readers to consider the value of professional helpers accessing their spiritual aptitude and competence, emphasizing their integral role in facilitating and nurturing resilience and growth for those exposed to trauma. It offers a conceptual framework, which is structured around three developmental levels: exposure, immersion, and mastery. At each level, the framework incorporates specific knowledge, skills, and attitudes that are essential for the professional helper’s spiritual competency development. This framework integrates literature emphasizing spiritual aptitude and post-trauma growth as critical components of spiritual competency development, further highlighting the importance of the role of spirituality in the helping process.
Increasing the Sustainability of the Strategic Development of Oil Producing Companies in Mexico
Authors: Semenova Tatyana , Martínez Santoyo Juan Yair
Published: August 2024

In the oil industry, there is a gap between the goals of sustainable development, the implementation of oil projects and its specific consequences. Oil projects are implemented in isolation from other variables, have an insufficiently targeted impact on the territory and often have a negative impact on the environment. The purpose of the study is to improve the efficiency of oil producing companies and increase their contribution to the development of the country’s economy as a whole. The methodology used in this article is based on the concept of sustainable development, systemic and integrated approaches, methodology of sub-potentials and modeling of business processes of a circular economy. The results of the study include a methodological approach to the formation of an effective business model for oil companies. We propose this methodological approach to select the projects of oil companies, taking into account economic, environmental and other factors, and the most promising prospects for Mexico. The significance of the study is that the proposed methodology makes it possible to increase the sustainability of the development of oil companies and integrate their business processes into the task of increasing the efficiency of operation and development of the territory. The novelty of the study lies in the application of the concept of sub-potentials and the calculation of critical indicator values for oil producing companies in Mexico to prevent the transition of sub-potentials of functioning and development into sub-potentials of threat and containment during project implementation.
The Nonlinear Relationship and Synergistic Effects between Built Environment and Urban Vitality at the Neighborhood Scale: A Case Study of Guangzhou’s Central Urban Area
Authors: Ling Zhenxiang , Zheng Xiaohao , Chen Yingbiao , Qian Qinglan , Zheng Zihao , Meng Xianxin , Kuang Junyu , Chen Junyu , Yang Na , Shi Xianghua
Published: August 2024

Investigating urban vitality and comprehending the influence mechanisms of the built environment is essential for achieving sustainable urban growth and improving the quality of life for residents. Current research has rarely addressed the nonlinear relationships and synergistic effects between urban vitality and the built environment at the neighborhood scale. This oversight may overlook the influence of key neighborhoods and overestimate or underestimate the influence of different factors on urban vitality. Using Guangzhou’s central urban area as a case study, this research develops a comprehensive urban vitality assessment system that includes economic, social, cultural, and ecological dimensions, utilizing multi-source data such as POI, Dazhong Dianping, Baidu heatmap, and NDVI. Additionally, the XGBoost-SHAP model is applied to uncover the nonlinear impacts of different built environment factors on neighborhood vitality. The findings reveal that: (1) urban vitality diminishes progressively from the center to the periphery; (2) proximity to Zhujiang New Town is the most critical factor for neighborhood vitality (with a contribution of 0.039), while functional diversity and public facility accessibility are also significant (with contributions ranging from 0.033 to 0.009); (3) built environment factors exert nonlinear influences on neighborhood vitality, notably with a threshold effect for subway station accessibility (feature value of 0.1); (4) there are notable synergistic effects among different built environment dimensions. For example, neighborhoods close to Zhujiang New Town (feature value below 0.12) with high POI density (feature value above 0.04) experience significant positive synergistic effects. These findings can inform targeted policy recommendations for precise urban planning.
Efficient Reinforcement Learning for 3D Jumping Monopods
Authors: Bussola Riccardo , Focchi Michele , Del Prete Andrea , Fontanelli Daniele , Palopoli Luigi
Published: August 2024

We consider a complex control problem: making a monopod accurately reach a target with a single jump. The monopod can jump in any direction at different elevations of the terrain. This is a paradigm for a much larger class of problems, which are extremely challenging and computationally expensive to solve using standard optimization-based techniques. Reinforcement learning (RL) is an interesting alternative, but an end-to-end approach in which the controller must learn everything from scratch can be non-trivial with a sparse-reward task like jumping. Our solution is to guide the learning process within an RL framework leveraging nature-inspired heuristic knowledge. This expedient brings widespread benefits, such as a drastic reduction of learning time, and the ability to learn and compensate for possible errors in the low-level execution of the motion. Our simulation results reveal a clear advantage of our solution against both optimization-based and end-to-end RL approaches.
Enhancing Autonomous Truck Navigation with Ultra-Wideband Technology in Industrial Environments
Authors: Waiwanijchakij Pairoj , Chotsiri Thanapat , Janpangngern Pisit , Thongsopa Chanchai , Thosdeekoraphat Thanaset , Santalunai Nuchanart , Santalunai Samran
Published: August 2024

The integration of autonomous vehicles in industrial settings necessitates advanced positioning and navigation systems to ensure operational safety and efficiency. This study rigorously evaluates the application of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology in autonomous industrial trucks and compares its effectiveness with conventional systems such as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), Global Positioning System (GPS), and cameras. Through comprehensive experiments conducted in a real factory environment, this study meticulously assesses the accuracy and reliability of UWB technology across various reference distances and under diverse environmental conditions. The findings reveal that UWB technology consistently achieves positioning accuracy within 0.2 cm 99% of the time, significantly surpassing the 10 cm and 5 cm accuracies of GPS and LiDAR, respectively. The exceptional performance of UWB, especially in environments afflicted by high metallic interference and non-line-of-sight conditions—where GPS and LiDAR’s efficacy decreased by 40% and 25%, respectively—highlights its potential to revolutionize the operational capabilities of autonomous trucks in industrial applications. This study underscores the robustness of UWB in maintaining high accuracy even in adverse conditions and illustrates its low power consumption and efficiency in multi-user scenarios without signal interference. This study not only confirms the superior capabilities of UWB technology but also contributes to the broader field of autonomous vehicle technology by highlighting the practical benefits and integration potential of UWB systems in complex and dynamic environments.
Leak Event Diagnosis for Power Plants: Generative Anomaly Detection Using Prototypical Networks
Authors: Jeong Jaehyeok , Yeo Doyeob , Roh Seungseo , Jo Yujin , Kim Minsuk
Published: August 2024

Anomaly detection systems based on artificial intelligence (AI) have demonstrated high performance and efficiency in a wide range of applications such as power plants and smart factories. However, due to the inherent reliance of AI systems on the quality of training data, they still demonstrate poor performance in certain environments. Especially in hazardous facilities with constrained data collection, deploying these systems remains a challenge. In this paper, we propose Generative Anomaly Detection using Prototypical Networks (GAD-PN) designed to detect anomalies using only a limited number of normal samples. GAD-PN is a structure that integrates CycleGAN with Prototypical Networks (PNs), learning from metadata similar to the target environment. This approach enables the collection of data that are difficult to gather in real-world environments by using simulation or demonstration models, thus providing opportunities to learn a variety of environmental parameters under ideal and normal conditions. During the inference phase, PNs can classify normal and leak samples using only a small number of normal data from the target environment by prototypes that represent normal and abnormal features. We also complement the challenge of collecting anomaly data by generating anomaly data from normal data using CycleGAN trained on anomaly features. It can also be adapted to various environments that have similar anomalous scenarios, regardless of differences in environmental parameters. To validate the proposed structure, data were collected specifically targeting pipe leakage scenarios, which are significant problems in environments such as power plants. In addition, acoustic ultrasound signals were collected from the pipe nozzles in three different environments. As a result, the proposed model achieved a leak detection accuracy of over 90% in all environments, even with only a small number of normal data. This performance shows an average improvement of approximately 30% compared with traditional unsupervised learning models trained with a limited dataset.
Talk about It, Don’t Type about It: How In-Person and Technology-Mediated Sexual Self-Disclosure Relate to Sexual Satisfaction
Authors: Joseph Morgan , Walters Lucas , Ashley Marilyn , Shaughnessy Krystelle
Published: August 2024

Sexual self-disclosure (SSD) is when a person shares information about their sexuality with another person. Technology-mediated communication is pervasive in modern society, yet researchers have not distinguished between SSDs that occur in-person versus in technology-mediated contexts. Using the Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction, researchers previously found that SSD predicts sexual rewards, costs, and satisfaction. In this study, we (1) compared cisgender/transgender men’s and women’s frequency (how much) and breadth (how many topics) of SSD via typed technology and in-person (H1, H2), and (2) examined the extent to which the frequency and breadth of SSD in each context predicted perceived sexual rewards, comparison of sexual rewards, and in turn sexual satisfaction while controlling for relationship satisfaction (H3, H4, H5, H6). Undergraduate students (N = 450) completed an online survey that assessed SSD in each context, perceived sexual rewards and costs, comparison of own and partner’s sexual rewards and costs, and sexual and relationship satisfaction. Participants reported more frequent and greater breadth of SSD in-person than via technology. We also found that women disclosed more sexual topics than men in-person but not through typed technology. Using path analyses, a greater frequency of SSD in-person predicted greater perceived sexual rewards and comparison sexual rewards, and in turn, greater sexual satisfaction. The frequency of SSD via typed technology and the SSD breadth in either context did not predict exchanges or sexual satisfaction.
Radiological Assessment of Centrally Limited Sinus Disease in Allergic and Non-Atopic Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Mohd Kutubudin Ahda Farhah , Hamizan Aneeza W. , Yean Kew Thean , Zahedi Farah Dayana , Abdullah Baharudin , Husain Salina
Published: August 2024

Background: A centrally limited radiological pattern, marked by mucosal thickening in the central sinonasal cavity with relatively unaffected surrounding sinuses, has been linked to allergy in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, a comparison between allergic and non-atopic CRS patients is lacking. The role of anatomical variations in the ostiomeatal complex also remains unclear. Methods: Adult CRS patients with allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema, and positive allergy tests were recruited. CRS patients without atopic disease and negative allergy tests were controls. CT scans were evaluated for the centrally limited radiologic pattern. Anatomical variations in the ostiomeatal complex were also examined. Results: The study included 15 allergic CRS and 17 non-atopic CRS participants. Allergic CRS patients showed a higher prevalence of centrally limited sinus disease compared to non-atopic CRS patients (50% vs. 14.7%, p < 0.01). No anatomical variations were conclusively linked to allergy status or the centrally limited sinus disease. Conclusion: Centrally limited sinus disease on radiology is associated with underlying allergy in CRS but should not be the primary diagnostic tool. Anatomical variants did not clearly relate to allergy status or the radiologic pattern but this requires further studies.
Transforming the Balance of Power? Child First Collaboration: A Conceptual Analysis
Authors: Hampson Kathy , Creaney Sean , Burns Samantha
Published: August 2024

Collaboration is one of the major tenets of Child First justice and yet is proving problematic in its application across the sector, especially where children are compelled through court orders to engage with interventions, creating inevitable power imbalances. In order to facilitate children in genuinely influencing decision-making processes which concern them, their voice needs to be given its proper value. In this article we use the youth justice system of England and Wales to explore the meaning, value and presence of collaboration within youth justice whilst examining the power dynamics at play through the analytical lenses of Bronfenbrenner’s ecological approach and Bourdieu’s analytical tools. This lends itself to a novel conceptualisation of collaboration within the youth justice space, which is applicable to youth justice contexts internationally, distinguishing between different forms of the concept and examining how much opportunity for influence is actually given to children within their own youth justice journeys.
The Impact of Spine Injuries on Amateur Athletes: An Exploratory Analysis of Sport-Related Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Raisch Philipp , Hirth Tabea , Kreinest Michael , Vetter Sven Y. , Grützner Paul A. , Jung Matthias K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: There is a lack of information on return to sport and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in amateur athletes after isolated spine injuries. Methods: A single-center cohort study in amateur athletes aged 18 to 60 with isolated spine injuries; clinical data collection and follow-up via telephone interview and standardized PROMs (Short-Form 36, Oswestry and Neck Disability Index, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Pain Visual Analog Scale). Bivariate analyses of potential influencing factors on PROMs were conducted using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Out of the 80 included participants, 78% (n = 62) were active in sport at follow-up. PROMs were slightly worse than those described for the age-adjusted general population. There were consistent associations of better PROMs with having reached the subjective preinjury level of performance in sport, while injury severity and surgical or conservative therapy did not show consistent associations with PROMs. Conclusion: Most amateur athletes resume their sports activity after a spine injury. Better outcomes are associated with individuals’ resumption of sport and subjective level of performance, while injury severity and surgical or conservative therapy do not show consistent associations with PROMs, highlighting the importance of patient education, rehabilitation, and encouragement.
Thoracic Fracture–Dislocation with Bilateral Locked Facet Joints: An Effective Reduction Technique
Authors: Pavešić Jure , Jelić Mislav , Dokuzović Stjepan , Muthu Sathish , Miletić Ana , Ivandić Stjepan , Bilić Vide , Ćorluka Stipe
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Thoracolumbar fracture–dislocations (AO type C) are rare injuries that occur due to high-energy trauma, and the result is translational and rotational instability of the spinal column and neurological impairment. Several reduction maneuvers have thus far been published, each of which can be of use in certain specific situations. We developed a modification to the previously described reduction technique. Materials and Methods: This is a case study on the management of thoracic AO type C fracture–dislocations managed with a modified reduction technique. The success of the reduction and intraoperative iatrogenic complications such as dural tear and screw pull out were the outcomes analyzed. Results: A total of four cases were successfully reduced with this described reduction technique. We did not note any complications such as a dural tear or screw failure with this modified reduction technique. Conclusions: A modification to the reduction technique employed in the management of thoracic fracture–dislocations resulted in a successful reduction without the risk of iatrogenic complications due to the reduction maneuver.
Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography-Assisted Complex Lung Segmentectomies for Challenging Oncological Cases
Authors: Orlandi Riccardo , Gherzi Lorenzo , Ferrari Michele , Mattioni Giovanni , Alifano Marco , Pardolesi Alessandro
Published: August 2024

Background: anatomic lung segmentectomies allow accurate resection of pulmonary lesions, maximizing healthy tissue preservation, and reducing unnecessary loss of lung function. In this setting, accurate preoperative planning is crucial. We present our early experience, detailing the successful use of 3D-CT models in tailoring therapeutic strategies for three patients undergoing complex anatomical lung resections due to neoplastic diseases. Case Presentation: (1) 60-year-old male patient with significant pulmonary functional impairment underwent successful right lower lobe bi-segmentectomy (S7–S8) for carcinoid, stage IA1. (2) 65-year-old female patient with previous left lung resection and functional impairment underwent uneventful right upper lobe bi-segmentectomy (S1–S2) for double lung adenocarcinoma, stage IIb. (3) 67-year-old male with previous ipsilateral lung resection underwent left lower lobe segmentectomy (S8) for metastatic colic adenocarcinoma without any complications. Conclusion: 3D-CT imaging, particularly through VPTM platform, enhances the safety and precision of complex lung segmentectomy, providing a valuable surgical map for improved outcomes.
Green Heritage and Lanna Urban Identity: A Study of Temples in Chiang Mai Old City
Authors: Wonglangka Warong , Han Feng
Published: August 2024

This study employs the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) framework to explore the integration of landscape plants as green heritage with Lanna urban identity in Chiang Mai Old City, Thailand. The research focuses on 38 Lanna temples, investigating the characteristics and roles of plant materials in these sacred spaces. Through comprehensive ground surveys, GIS mapping, and structured interviews with monks, temple caretakers, and long-term residents, the study documents the types, locations, and uses of native and exotic plants. The findings emphasize the cultural, aesthetic, and ecological significance of heritage trees, such as the Bodhi trees and the Yang tree. These trees are pivotal in maintaining cultural continuity, supporting traditional rituals, and enhancing biodiversity. The study also reveals that while ornamental and edible plants are actively used in rituals and community practices, medicinal and applicable plants are preserved more for their historical value than practical use. This research underscores the necessity of sustainable landscape management, community engagement, and the preservation of ethnobotanical knowledge to mitigate the impacts of urbanization. By integrating green heritage into urban planning, the study provides valuable insights for enhancing the cultural and environmental landscape of Chiang Mai.
A Study on the Revenge Travel Intention in the Endemic Era: Using the Theory of Planned Behavior and Heuristic Cues
Authors: Lee Wonseok , Park Yeseul , Han Hyunsook
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to demonstrate the effect of negative emotions elicited by COVID-19 on the revenge consumption of international travel through both rational and irrational buying intentions. The theory of planned behavior and heuristic cues were used to explain revenge consumption in terms of rational and irrational buying intentions, respectively. A survey was conducted using MTURK from 31 May 2023 to 2 June 2023 among adults who experienced COVID-19. A structural equation model (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses, and the Hayes PROCESS macro was used to test the mediation effect. The results revealed that negative emotions due to COVID-19 affected irrational buying intentions, but not rational buying intentions, and that both irrational and rational buying intentions significantly affected revenge consumption intentions for international travel. In addition, irrational buying intentions affected rational buying intentions. These results indicate that when making an international travel decision due to negative emotions caused by COVID-19, an irrational decision process was employed, whereas later, at the travel reservation and planning stage, individuals consumed and planned travel based on rational intentions. The significance of this study lies in the fact that it illuminates the phenomenon of revenge consumption following disasters such as pandemics.
Exploring the Sustainable Development of Web3 Game Token Economy
Authors: Xie Anna , Hu Xi , Wang Mindao , Zhao Xindong
Published: August 2024

With the popularity of Play-to-Earn (P2E) games, in-game token economies have become the foundation of the financial structure of virtual worlds. More and more players are investing in digital assets, promoting long-term economic growth. This paper delves into the key factors for the sustainability of the P2E game token economy: the investment value of tokens and external incentives. When tokens are no longer profitable, user churn rates rise sharply, which is critical to the continued development of P2E games. External factors also significantly impact token prices, which affects the stability and sustainability of the entire economic system. In response to these challenges, this paper proposes a series of strategies to enhance token stability, including adjustments to game design, improvements to player incentive mechanisms, and the formulation of relevant policies and regulations. The conclusions of this study aim to provide valuable insights and guidance to game designers, investors, and players to promote the healthy development of Web3 game token economic systems.
GIS-Based Digital Twin Model for Solar Radiation Mapping to Support Sustainable Urban Agriculture Design
Authors: Clementi Matteo , Dessì Valentina , Podestà Giulio Maria , Chien Szu-Cheng , Wei Barbara Ang Ting , Lucchi Elena
Published: August 2024

The integration of urban agriculture into cityscapes necessitates a comprehensive understanding of multiple engineering and environmental factors, including urban fabric, building configurations, and dynamic energy and material flows. In contrast to rural settings, urban areas introduce complexities such as hygrothermal fluctuations, variable sunlight exposure and shadow patterns, diverse plant dimensions and shapes, and material interception. To address these challenges, this study presents an open-source Digital Twin model based on the use of a geographical information system (GIS) for near-real-time solar radiation mapping. This methodology aims to optimize crop productivity, enhance resilience, and promote environmental sustainability within urban areas and enables the near-time mapping of the salient features of different portions of the city using available open data. The work is structured into two main parts: (i) definition of the GIS-based Digital Twin model for mapping microclimatic variables (in particular solar radiation) to support sustainable urban agriculture design and (ii) application of the model to the city of Milan to verify its replicability and effectiveness. The key findings are connected to the possibility to integrate open data (solar radiation) with measurements in situ (illuminance and data referred to the specific crops, with related conversion coefficient) to develop a set of maps helpful for urban farmers but also for designers dealing with the synergy between buildings and urban farms. Initially tested on a neighborhood of Milan (Italy), the model will be applied in the Singapore context to verify analogies and differences. This correlation facilitates a more practical and straightforward examination of the relationships between solar irradiation and illuminance values of natural sunlight (involving both incident and diffuse light). The consistency of measurements allows for the precise documentation of these fluctuations, thereby enhancing the understanding of the influence of solar radiation on perceived luminance levels, particularly in urban environments characterized by diverse contextual factors such as vegetation, nearby structures, and geographical positioning.
Development of a Quality Deterioration Index for Sustainable Quality Management in High-Tech Electronics Manufacturing
Authors: Fridkin Shimon , Winokur Michael , Gamliel Amir
Published: August 2024

In high-tech electronics manufacturing, non-quality costs significantly impact organizational profitability and competitiveness. This case study introduces a novel Quality Deterioration Index (QDI) to systematically identify and prioritize root causes of non-quality costs within a leading electronics manufacturer. The primary objective is to integrate sustainable quality management practices that align with green sustainability objectives, such as reducing electronic waste, improving energy efficiency, and minimizing hazardous materials usage. Our comprehensive methodology encompasses a literature review, interviews, document analysis, and statistical analysis of survey data to uncover the influence of procedural, cultural, and environmental factors on quality deviations. The key findings reveal critical areas for improvement, particularly in supply chain inefficiencies, workforce challenges, and procedural gaps. By employing the QDI, we provide a structured framework that enhances both operational efficiency and environmental performance. The novelty of this research lies in its dual approach to simultaneously address economic and environmental performance, offering actionable insights for manufacturers aiming to integrate robust quality management systems with sustainability objectives. This study contributes to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable manufacturing strategies, underscoring the pivotal role of quality management in achieving both economic viability and environmental stewardship. Future research should expand this approach across various industries and global contexts to validate and refine the integration of quality management and sustainability.
Solar-Dried Biofertilizers from Marine Waste: Enhancing the Circular Economy
Authors: Castillo-Téllez Beatriz , Castillo Téllez Margarita , Campo Martha Fabiola Martín del , González Edgar Oswaldo Zamora , Domínguez Niño Alfredo , Mejía-Pérez Gerardo Alberto
Published: August 2024

Food waste contributes to hunger, poverty, and environmental pollution. Unfortunately, seafood, which provides high nutrient content, is significantly underutilized, with only 30% of high-value seafood consumed. This study addresses the urgent need to reuse these wastes, converting them into biofertilizers through solar drying. A solar drying plant was designed and built to produce fish powder as the base of fertilizer, achieving an equilibrium humidity of 400 kg in 11 h after sterilization by pre-cooking. The resulting biofertilizer was rigorously tested for its macronutrient composition, germination rate, presence of coliforms, and phytotoxicity. The findings indicate that fish waste can effectively replace synthetic fertilizers, fostering a circular economy and promoting sustainable agriculture. This research highlights the potential of using marine debris to produce biofertilizers, contributing to global sustainability efforts by harnessing marine debris and solar energy to offer an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers.
Managing Neurodiversity in Workplaces: A Review and Future Research Agenda for Sustainable Human Resource Management
Authors: Rollnik-Sadowska Ewa , Grabińska Violetta
Published: August 2024

This review article explores the scientific literature on managing neurodiversity in workplaces, aiming to identify emerging research directions, gaps, and methods used. A systematic literature review in the hybrid form was implemented, combining bibliometric analysis and structured review. A review of selected social sciences publications from the SCOPUS database was conducted. The literature review reveals a lack of research linking neurodiversity with human capital management. Key findings indicate that neurodivergent individuals contribute unique talents contingent on appropriate management strategies. The research identified in the reviewed literature in the scope of managing neurodiversity in workplaces primarily focuses on four areas: the well-being of individuals with autism, inclusion strategies, employment challenges, and recruitment transformations. The review identified 22 articles addressing the following areas: mental health and quality of life, inclusive workplace designs, psychological perspectives, and human resource practice adaptations. Additional studies cover family relationships, emotional intelligence, and the need for new research approaches, predominantly using qualitative methods. The study concludes that more theories, methods, and contexts are needed to support neurodivergent employees. Future research should develop integrated solutions to enhance employment rates and reduce turnover, using theories like Self-Determination Theory and Universally Designed Synergistic Supervision. Integrating neurodiversity into sustainable human resource management practices can enhance innovation, employee satisfaction, and organizational reputation. Continuous policy improvement is crucial for long-term success and inclusivity.
Can Subscapularis Augmentation Serve as an Alternative to the Remplissage Procedure? A Case Report
Authors: Lee Daehee , Seo Joongbae , Jung Jaewook , Yoo Jaesung
Published: August 2024

When performing surgical treatment for shoulder dislocation, the Remplissage procedure for large Hill-Sachs lesions, which correspond to off-track lesions, has been reported to yield satisfactory results using an arthroscopic approach. However, in cases of high-energy acute dislocation or acute-on-chronic dislocation, when the humeral head bony defect is too large, severe external rotation limitation may occur postoperatively, and if the bone quality is poor, there is a higher risk of anchor pull-out, leading to potential failure. To overcome these limitations, we opted to apply subscapularis augmentation instead, aiming to achieve satisfactory results. A 21-year-old male patient underwent subscapularis augmentation for a right shoulder dislocation accompanied by severe glenoid bone loss following seizures. Two years and three months later, he experienced another seizure episode without recurrence of right shoulder dislocation and showed satisfactory clinical outcomes. However, he developed a left shoulder dislocation. Therefore, we report a case of subscapularis augmentation as an alternative treatment for shoulder dislocation with significant glenoid bone loss. We aim to present a satisfactory outcome along with a literature review on this approach.